How to change the oil filter in the Kia

To replace the oil filter on the Kia, work with the engine off and safely on a flat surface. If the car has just been used, allow the oil to cool sufficiently to avoid burns.

Open the bonnet and prepare the work area: it is useful to have an absorbent cloth and a container for any oil drips when the filter is removed. Locate the oil filter on the Kia: depending on the engine/trim, it may be more accessible from the engine compartment (cartridge housing) or from underneath (screw-on filter).

If you need to work from below, lift the car with a jack and axle stands at the correct points, and if present, remove the lower cover that protects the engine area. Position a bowl under the filter: even if you are only changing the filter, a small amount of oil may escape.

When unscrewing the filter, do so slowly and keep it as vertical as possible to avoid spills. Before fitting the replacement, ensure that the old seal has not stuck to the seat.

If the filter is of the cartridge type, also replace the O-ring on the cover and lightly lubricate the new seal with a thin layer of clean oil. Fit the new filter onto the Kia, screwing it on correctly until fully seated without forcing, and replace any covers/protections removed.

If you are also changing the oil along with the filter, complete the filling with the oil of the viscosity and specification required for your Kia and check the level with the dipstick (or from the onboard system, if available), adding only if necessary.

Start the engine for a few seconds and check for any leaks around the filter area. Turn off, wait a couple of minutes, and recheck the oil level in the Kia, adjusting if necessary.