Explanation of periodic maintenance schedule items

Engine oil and filter

Engine oil and filter should be replaced at the intervals specified in the scheduled maintenance chart.

If the vehicle is operated under severe driving conditions, the oil and filter must be replaced more frequently.

Drive belts

Inspect all drive belts for cuts, cracks, excessive wear, or oil saturation, and replace them if necessary. Also check the drive belt tension at regular intervals and adjust it if necessary.

Fuel filter (element)

A clogged fuel filter may limit driving speed, damage the exhaust system, and make the vehicle difficult to start. If excessive contamination accumulates in the fuel tank, more frequent replacement may be required.

After installing a new filter, run the engine for a few minutes and check that the hose connections are sealed and free of leaks. Fuel filters should be installed by an authorized Kia dealer.

Fuel lines, fuel hoses and connections

Check the fuel lines, fuel hoses and connections for leaks and damage. If any part is damaged or leaking, replace it immediately. This work should be performed by a properly trained service technician.

WARNING - Applies to diesel engines only Do not perform any work on the injection system while the engine is running or within 30 seconds after it has been stopped. The fuel pump, fuel rail, injectors and high-pressure lines remain under high pressure even after the engine is stopped. Fuel spraying from leaking fuel lines onto the body may cause serious injury. Persons with pacemakers should not approach the engine control module (ECM) or wiring harnesses within 30 cm (12 in) while the engine is running, as high currents in the fuel rail system generate strong magnetic fields.

Fuel vapor hose and fuel filler cap

Inspect the fuel vapor hose and fuel filler cap at the regular intervals specified in the scheduled maintenance chart. Make sure that a new fuel vapor hose or a new fuel filler cap is installed correctly.

Air filter

When replacing the air filter, it is recommended to use an original Kia air filter.

Spark plugs (gasoline engines only)

Make sure that new spark plugs with the correct heat range are installed.

Valve clearance (if equipped)

Check that the valves do not operate with excessive noise and/or the engine does not vibrate. Adjust these components if necessary. This work should be performed by an authorized Kia dealer.

Engine cooling system

Inspect the engine cooling system components such as the radiator, coolant reservoir, hoses and connections, checking that they are sealed and undamaged. Replace all damaged parts.

Engine coolant

Replace the engine coolant at the intervals specified in the scheduled maintenance chart.

Manual transmission fluid (if equipped)

Check the manual transmission fluid as specified in the scheduled maintenance chart.

Automatic transmission fluid (if equipped)

Automatic transmission fluid does not require inspection under normal driving conditions.

However, under severe operating conditions, the fluid should be replaced by an authorized Kia dealer according to the normal scheduled maintenance chart at the beginning of this chapter.

NOTE Automatic transmission fluid is normally red.

As the vehicle is operated, the automatic transmission fluid will gradually become darker. This is normal, and a change in color alone does not mean the fluid needs to be replaced.

CAUTION Using an improper fluid may cause malfunction or damage to the transmission. Use only the specified automatic transmission fluid.

(See the "Recommended lubricants" subsection in chapter 8.)

Brake lines and brake hoses

Visually inspect the lines and hoses for proper installation, cuts, abrasion, deterioration, and any leaks. If any deterioration or damage is found, replace the part immediately.

Brake fluid

Check the brake fluid level in the brake fluid reservoir. The fluid level should be between the "MIN" and "MAX" marks on the side of the reservoir.

Use hydraulic brake fluid that meets DOT 3 or DOT 4 requirements.

Parking brake

Inspect the parking brake system, including the pedal and cables

Rear brake drums and shoes (if equipped)

Inspect the rear brake drums and shoes for scoring, burning, fluid leaks, damaged parts and excessive wear.

Discs, brake pads, calipers and brake shoes

Check that the brake pads are not excessively worn, that the discs are not warped and show no signs of wear, and that the brake calipers are sealed with no brake fluid leakage.

More information on checking brake pad and shoe wear can be found on the KIA website.

Suspension mounting bolts

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

Steering gear, lower arm ball joint (knuckle) / tie rods and boots

After stopping the vehicle and switching off the engine, check that the steering wheel has no excessive play.

Check that the tie rods are not bent or damaged. Check that the dust boots and ball joints are not scratched, damaged, or deteriorated. Replace all damaged parts.

Drive shafts and boots

Inspect the drive shafts, boots and clamps for scratches, deterioration or damage. Replace any damaged parts and add grease as necessary.

Refrigerant used in the air conditioner (if equipped)

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