Maintenance

Owner Maintenance

~2min read

The following lists are vehicle inspections and checks that should be performed by the owner or an authorized Kia dealer at the intervals shown to help ensure the safe, reliable operation of your vehicle.

Any abnormal conditions should be brought to the attention of your dealer as soon as possible.

These owner maintenance checks are generally not covered by the warranty, and you may be charged for labor, replacement parts and lubricants.

Owner Maintenance Schedule

When you stop for fuel:

  • Check the engine oil level.
  • Check the coolant level in the coolant reservoir.
  • Check the windshield washer fluid level.
  • Look for low or under-inflated tires.

CAUTION - Hot Coolant

Be careful when checking the engine coolant level when the engine is hot. Scalding hot coolant and steam may blow out under pressure.

While operating the vehicle:

  • Pay attention to any change in exhaust sound or any smell of exhaust gas inside the vehicle.
  • Check for steering wheel vibration. Note any increase in steering effort or looseness of the steering wheel, or any change in its straight-ahead position.
  • Check whether the vehicle constantly drifts slightly or "pulls" to one side when driving on a flat, level road.
  • When stopping, listen for unusual noises and check for pulling to one side, increased brake pedal travel, or a "hard" brake pedal.
  • If any slipping or changes in transmission operation occur, check the transmission fluid level.
  • Check the operation of the manual transmission, including clutch operation.
  • Check the dual clutch transmission in P (Park).
  • Check the parking brake.
  • Check for fluid leaks under the vehicle (water dripping from the air conditioning system during or after use is normal).

At least monthly:

  • Check the engine coolant level in the engine coolant reservoir.
  • Check the operation of all exterior lights, including brake lights, turn signals, and hazard warning lights.
  • Check the air pressure of all tires, including the spare tire.

At least twice a year (i.e., every spring and fall):

  • Inspect the radiator, heater and air conditioning hoses for leaks or damage.
  • Check the windshield washer nozzle operation and wiper blades. Clean the wiper blades with a clean cloth dampened with washer fluid.
  • Check the headlight aim.
  • Check the muffler, exhaust pipes, heat shields, and clamps.
  • Check the seat belts for wear and proper function.
  • Check for worn tires and loose wheel nuts.

At least once a year:

  • Clean the door body and drain holes.
  • Lubricate the door hinges and check the hood hinges.
  • Lubricate the door and hood latches and locks.
  • Lubricate the door rubber weatherstrips.
  • Inspect the air conditioning system.
  • Inspect and lubricate the dual clutch transmission / intelligent variable transmission linkage and controls.
  • Clean the battery and battery terminals.
  • Check the brake fluid level.

Test yourself

A quick Kia Forte BD quiz: every answer comes with an explanation and a link to the manual page.