🧪Fluid Capacities
Kia Optima Fluid Capacities
All fluid capacities for your Kia Optima: engine oil, coolant, transmission fluid, brake fluid, power steering, and more.
Quick Answer
The Kia Optima requires multiple fluids maintained at specific levels. Engine oil, coolant, transmission fluid, brake fluid, and power steering fluid all have different capacities depending on your engine and model year.
2015-2020
2015-2020Engine Oil4.0 - 6.5 quarts (varies by engine)
Coolant (total system)6.0 - 10.0 quarts
Transmission Fluid3.5 - 4.0 quarts (drain & fill) / 7-9 quarts (total)
Brake FluidDOT 3 or DOT 4 — ~1 quart for full flush
Power Steering FluidElectric power steering — no fluid needed
Windshield Washer~1 gallon
Notes
- →Never mix different types of coolant — flush completely when changing brands
- →Many newer models use electric power steering — no power steering fluid required
- →Transmission fluid should be checked with the engine running and at operating temperature
- →Brake fluid absorbs moisture over time — replace every 2-3 years regardless of mileage
2009-2014
2009-2014Engine Oil4.0 - 6.5 quarts (varies by engine)
Coolant (total system)6.0 - 10.0 quarts
Transmission Fluid3.5 - 4.0 quarts (drain & fill) / 7-9 quarts (total)
Brake FluidDOT 3 or DOT 4 — ~1 quart for full flush
Power Steering FluidATF or manufacturer-specific — ~1 quart
Windshield Washer~1 gallon
Notes
- →Never mix different types of coolant — flush completely when changing brands
- →Transmission fluid should be checked with the engine running and at operating temperature
- →Brake fluid absorbs moisture over time — replace every 2-3 years regardless of mileage
2003-2008
2003-2008Engine Oil4.0 - 6.5 quarts (varies by engine)
Coolant (total system)6.0 - 10.0 quarts
Transmission Fluid3.0 - 4.0 quarts (drain & fill)
Brake FluidDOT 3 or DOT 4 — ~1 quart for full flush
Power Steering FluidATF or manufacturer-specific — ~1 quart
Windshield Washer~1 gallon
Notes
- →Never mix different types of coolant — flush completely when changing brands
- →Transmission fluid should be checked with the engine running and at operating temperature
- →Brake fluid absorbs moisture over time — replace every 2-3 years regardless of mileage
2001-2002
2001-2002Engine Oil4.0 - 6.5 quarts (varies by engine)
Coolant (total system)6.0 - 10.0 quarts
Transmission Fluid3.0 - 4.0 quarts (drain & fill)
Brake FluidDOT 3 or DOT 4 — ~1 quart for full flush
Power Steering FluidATF or manufacturer-specific — ~1 quart
Windshield Washer~1 gallon
Notes
- →Never mix different types of coolant — flush completely when changing brands
- →Transmission fluid should be checked with the engine running and at operating temperature
- →Brake fluid absorbs moisture over time — replace every 2-3 years regardless of mileage
Frequently Asked Questions
- How much coolant does a Kia Optima hold?
- The Kia Optima cooling system holds 6-10 quarts total depending on the engine. A drain-and-fill replaces about 50-60% of the coolant. For a complete flush, you'll need the full capacity amount.
- What type of transmission fluid does a Kia Optima use?
- The Kia Optima transmission fluid type depends on whether it's an automatic or manual transmission and the model year. Automatic transmissions typically use ATF WS, Dexron VI, or manufacturer-specific fluid. Manual transmissions use 75W-90 gear oil.
- Does a Kia Optima have power steering fluid?
- 2015+ Kia Optima models with electric power steering don't use power steering fluid. Older models with hydraulic power steering use ATF or manufacturer-specific fluid — check your owner's manual.
- What brake fluid does a Kia Optima use?
- Most Kia Optima models use DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid. DOT 4 has a higher boiling point and is preferred for performance driving. Never use DOT 5 (silicone-based) in a system designed for DOT 3/4.