Kia Picanto JA Quiz

Fuel Requirements

In this manual: Fuel Requirements
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Gasoline engine

Unleaded gasoline For best vehicle performance, we recommend using unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of 95 RON (Research Octane Number) / 91 AKI (Anti-Knock Index) or higher. (Do not use fuels blended with methanol.) Unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of 91~94 RON / 87~90 AKI can also be used, but performance will be slightly reduced.

Your new vehicle is designed to deliver maximum performance with UNLEADED GASOLINE, which also ensures minimal exhaust emissions and the least spark plug deposits.

CAUTION NEVER USE LEADED GASOLINE. The use of leaded gasoline is harmful to the catalytic converter and will damage the oxygen sensor of the engine management system, as well as adversely affecting emissions control.

Never add fuel system cleaning additives to the fuel tank other than those specified.

(It is recommended that the system be checked by an authorized Kia dealer.)

WARNING

  • When refueling, avoid "topping off" the tank once the pump nozzle shuts off automatically.
  • Always make sure the fuel filler cap is installed securely to prevent fuel leakage in the event of an accident.

Leaded gasoline (where available) Leaded gasoline is sold in some countries. Before using leaded gasoline, we recommend contacting an authorized Kia dealer.

For leaded gasoline, use the same octane rating as for unleaded gasoline.

Gasoline containing alcohol and methanol Gasohol, a blend of gasoline and ethanol, and gasoline or gasohol containing methanol are sometimes sold alongside or instead of leaded (red) or unleaded (green) gasoline.

Do not use gasohol containing more than 10% ethanol, and do not use gasoline or gasohol containing methanol. Some of these fuels can cause driveability problems and damage to the fuel system, engine control system and emission control system.

Stop using any type of gasohol if driveability problems occur.

Damage and driveability problems may not be covered by the manufacturer's warranty if they result from the use of the following fuels:

  1. Gasohol containing more than 10% ethanol.
  2. Gasoline or gasohol containing methanol.
  3. Leaded gasoline or leaded gasohol.
CAUTION Never use gasoline containing methanol. Stop using any type of gasoline that impairs drivability.

Other fuels Use of fuels such as:

  • Fuel containing silicon (Si),
  • Fuel containing MMT (Manganese, Mn),
  • Fuel containing ferrocene (Fe), and
  • Other fuels containing metallic additives,

may cause damage to the vehicle and engine, or cause knocking, misfiring, poor acceleration, engine stalling, catalytic converter meltdown, abnormal corrosion, reduced service life, etc.

In addition, the malfunction indicator light (MIL) may illuminate.

NOTE Use of these fuels may cause damage to fuel system components or functional problems that are not covered by the New Vehicle Limited Warranty.

Use of MTBE It is strongly recommended not to use fuels containing more than 15% MTBE (Methyl Tertiary Butyl Ether) by volume (oxygen content above 2.7% by weight).

Fuels containing more than 15% MTBE by volume (oxygen content above 2.7% by weight) may reduce performance and cause vapor lock or hard starting.

WARNING Damage to the fuel system or performance problems caused by the use of methanol-blended fuels or fuels containing more than 15% MTBE (Methyl Tertiary Butyl Ether) by volume (oxygen content above 2.7% by weight) will void the warranty.

Do not use methanol Methanol fuels (a distillate of wood) must not be used. This type of fuel may reduce vehicle performance and damage components of the fuel system, engine control system and emission control system.

Fuel additives Kia recommends using unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of 95 RON (Research Octane Number) / 91 AKI (Anti-Knock Index) or higher (for Europe), or 91 RON (Research Octane Number) / 87 AKI (Anti-Knock Index) or higher (except Europe).

For drivers who do not regularly use good-quality gasoline, including fuel additives, and who experience starting problems or irregular engine running: it is recommended to add one bottle of additive to the fuel tank every 15,000 km (for Europe) / 10,000 km (except Europe). Additives are available from your authorized Kia dealer, who will also provide the necessary instructions for their use. Do not add any other additives.

Driving abroad Before traveling abroad, be sure to:

  • Observe the regulations regarding vehicle registration and insurance.
  • Make sure a fuel compatible with the vehicle is available.

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