Owner Maintenance
In this manual: Owner Maintenance
~3min read
The following lists show checks and inspections that the owner or an authorized Kia dealer should perform at the indicated intervals to ensure safe and reliable operation of the vehicle.
Any abnormal condition should be brought to the attention of your dealer as soon as possible.
These owner maintenance checks are generally not covered by warranty, and you may be charged for labor, parts and lubricants.
Owner Maintenance Schedule
When refueling:
- Check the engine oil level.
- Check the coolant level in the reservoir.
- Check the washer fluid level.
- Check that the tires are properly inflated.
Be careful when checking the coolant level when the engine is hot. Boiling coolant or steam may be released under pressure. You may be burned or seriously injured.
When driving your vehicle:
- Note any change in exhaust sound or the presence of exhaust gas odor inside the vehicle.
- Check whether the steering wheel vibrates. Note any increase in effort or looseness in the steering wheel, or any change in straight-line tracking.
- Note whether the vehicle turns or "pulls" slightly to one side when driving on a smooth, level surface.
- When stopping, note any unusual noise, pulling to one side, increased brake pedal travel, or "hardness" in the brake pedal.
- If there is slipping or a change in transmission behavior, check the transmission fluid level.
- Check the automatic transmission P (Park) function.
- Check the parking brake.
- Check for fluid leaks under the vehicle (it is normal for the air conditioner to drip water during or after use).
At least once a month:
- Check the engine coolant reservoir level.
- Check the operation of all exterior lights, including brake lights, turn signals and hazard lights.
- Check the pressure of all tires, including the spare tire.
At least twice a year (spring and fall):
- Check the condition of the heater and air conditioner hoses and ducts.
- Check the operation of the washer nozzles and wipers.
At least once a year:
- Clean the body and door drain holes.
- Lubricate the door and hood hinges and door striker plates.
- Lubricate the door and hood locks and latches.
- Lubricate the rubber weatherstrips of the doors.
- Check the engine coolant reservoir level.
- Check the power steering fluid level.
- Check the engine coolant reservoir level.
- Clean the battery and its terminals.
- Check the brake/clutch fluid level.
Test yourself
A quick Kia Optima DL3 quiz: every answer comes with an explanation and a link to the manual page.
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