Maintenance

Description of Scheduled Maintenance Items

~4min read

Engine Oil and Filter

Engine oil and oil filter should be replaced at the intervals specified in the Maintenance Schedule. If the vehicle is operated under severe conditions, more frequent oil and filter changes are required.

Seat Belts

Inspect all drive belts for cuts, cracks, excessive wear, or oil saturation, and replace if necessary. Drive belts must be periodically checked for proper tension and adjusted if necessary.

Fuel Filter (for Gasoline Engine)

This gasoline engine vehicle is equipped with a lifetime fuel filter integrated into the fuel tank. It requires no regular maintenance or replacement; however, the quality of the fuel used may affect the frequency of required maintenance. If there are any fuel-related problems, such as restricted fuel flow, pulsation, loss of power, starting problems, etc., inspection or replacement of the fuel filter may be necessary.

The fuel filter must be inspected or replaced by an authorized Kia dealer.

Fuel Lines, Fuel Hoses, and Connections

Inspect the fuel lines, fuel hoses, and connections for leaks and damage. Have an authorized Kia dealer immediately replace any damaged or leaking parts.

Vapor Hose and Fuel Tank Cap

The vapor hose and fuel tank cap should be inspected at the intervals specified in the maintenance schedule. Make sure the new vapor hose or fuel tank cap is installed correctly.

Crankcase Ventilation Vacuum Hoses

Inspect the hoses for heat and/or mechanical damage. Hard, brittle rubber, cracks, tears, cuts, abrasions, and excessive swelling indicate deterioration. Pay particular attention to hose surfaces closest to heat sources, such as the exhaust manifold. Inspect hose routing to make sure the hoses do not contact heat sources, sharp edges, or moving parts, which can cause heat damage or mechanical wear. Inspect all hose connections, such as clamps and fittings, to make sure they are secure and free of leaks. Replace hoses immediately if there are signs of wear or damage.

Air Cleaner Filter

When replacing the filter, it is recommended to use a genuine Kia air cleaner filter.

Spark Plugs

Be sure to install new spark plugs of the correct heat range.

Valve Clearance (if equipped)

Check for excessive valve noise and/or engine vibration and adjust if necessary. This procedure must be performed by an authorized Kia dealer.

Cooling System

Inspect cooling system components, such as the radiator, coolant reservoir, hoses, and connections, for leaks and damage. Replace any damaged parts.

coolant

The engine coolant should be replaced at the intervals specified in the Maintenance Schedule.

Automatic Transmission Fluid

The automatic transmission fluid should not be checked under normal operating conditions.

However, under severe conditions, the fluid should be changed by an authorized Kia dealer in accordance with the scheduled maintenance at the beginning of this chapter.

✽ NOTICE

Automatic transmission fluid is normally red in color.

As the vehicle is driven, the automatic transmission fluid will begin to look darker.

This is normal. Do not judge the need to replace the fluid based on changed color alone.

CAUTION

Use only the specified automatic transmission fluid. Using an unspecified fluid may cause the transmission to malfunction and fail. (Refer to "Recommended Lubricants and Capacities" in Chapter 8.)

Brake Hoses and Lines

Visually inspect for correct installation, wear, cracks, deterioration, and any other damage or leaks. Replace any worn or damaged parts immediately.

Brake fluid

Check the brake fluid level in the brake fluid reservoir. The level should be between the "MIN" and "MAX" marks on the side of the reservoir. Use only hydraulic brake fluid that meets DOT 3 or DOT 4 specification.

Parking Brake

Inspect the parking brake system, including the parking brake pedal and cables.

Brake Pads, Discs, Calipers and Rotors

Inspect the brake pads and discs for excessive wear, and the calipers for fluid leaks.

Exhaust Pipe and Muffler

Visually inspect the exhaust pipes, muffler and hangers for cracks, wear, or damage. Start the engine and listen carefully for any exhaust leaks. Tighten connections or replace parts as necessary.

Suspension Mounting Bolts

Check the suspension connections for looseness or damage. Tighten to the specified torque.

Steering Gear Box, Linkage, and Boots/Lower Arm Ball Joint

With the vehicle stopped and the engine off, check for excessive steering wheel play.

Check the connection for bends or damage. Check the dust boots and ball joints for wear, cracks, or damage. Replace any damaged parts.

Drive Shafts and Boots

Check the drive shafts, boots and clamps for cracks, wear, or damage. Replace any damaged parts and refill grease as necessary.

Air Conditioning Refrigerant

Check the air conditioning lines and connections for leaks and damage.

Test yourself

A quick Kia Optima DL3 quiz: every answer comes with an explanation and a link to the manual page.