The fluid in an automatic transmission is changed using a machine during the transmission flush process. Numerous auto repair shops own these pricey tools. Under pressure, the old fluid, dirt, and sludge are forced out, and the new fluid takes its place.
Due to the expense of the machine, flushing typically costs significantly more than a fluid change. The procedure is frequently priced in many shops to maximize profits.
So, the process is similar in Kia vehicles also, and in this article, we discuss everything you need to know about kia transmission fluid change. So, stick around until the end to find out what you’ve been looking for.
Is a transmission flush necessary and why?
Your car’s transmission performs a crucial function underneath the hood. It is what enables you to change and control your gears. Your vehicle is practically useless if the transmission isn’t in top shape.
As a result, the transmission fluid is crucial to maintaining the transmission’s functionality. The fluid removes some of the heat while lubricating the moving parts. Besides removing sludge and grime, it also assists in transmission cleaning.
How often should you change the transmission fluid in a Kia?
However, the majority of owners’ manuals advise changing the transmission fluid every 90,000 to 120,000 miles. The replacement of the transmission fluid is typically included in the maintenance schedule.
However, transmission problems can occur at any time. High-mileage vehicles are more frequently seen in poor condition due to slack maintenance. The best way to guard against transmission failure is to perform factory maintenance on schedule.
How much does Kia charge for a transmission fluid change?
Depending on the vehicle, a new Kia Sportage transmission could cost over $3,500. In contrast, transmission services like fluid changes and fluid flushes can sometimes be had for less than $150.
For a Kia Optima transmission fluid change, typically between $44 and $56 is the estimated cost of labor, while the cost of parts is $73. It costs between $117 and $129.
How Frequently Should Transmission Fluid Be Replaced?
Unlike your oil, your transmission fluid does not need to be changed as frequently. The type of vehicle you drive, the mileage, and whether you travel more on the highway or in the city will all affect how frequently the transmission fluid needs to be changed.
In general, if you don’t drive much, you can get the transmission fluid changed every 24,000 to 40,000 miles or every few years.
How do you know when your transmission fluid needs to be changed?
Contaminated transmission fluid
Examining the fluid’s quality is one of the simplest ways to determine how well your transmission is functioning.
Pull the dipstick out of the automatic transmission if you have one. Examine the consistency and wipe the liquid away. Redip it after that and check the level once more.
The whine of the transmission
Transmissions that whine reveal a problem, but the moment at which they whine reveals the location of the issue.
When your car whines while going backward, there is a problem with the transmission fluid line.
Address this issue as soon as you notice it because if the line is clogged, the fluid cannot flow, and your transmission is in danger of experiencing serious issues.
Unable to move reverse.
There are several potential causes for your car to not move in reverse, but one of them is dirty transmission fluid.
The car can’t go into reverse if the transmission fluid can’t move because it’s too dirty.
One of the simplest solutions to the issues that can result in this problem is a transmission fluid flush.
There are a variety of reasons why your car makes a noise when you reverse it. However, we’ll focus on two major factors that auto repair engineers frequently bring up: the brake system and the transmission. – itismycar.com
Transmission grinding sounds
Grinding and other strange noises are examples of symptoms that dirty transmission fluid can produce that are similar to low transmission fluid levels.
If you hear these noises, check the fluid consistency and levels. Even if the fluid levels are sufficient, dirty fluid cannot properly lubricate the parts, leading to these strange and unwelcome noises.
Can I operate a vehicle with a transmission fluid issue?
In general, it is not advised to drive a car after the manufacturer’s recommended service interval.
Although the car is safe to drive, skipping maintenance could end up costing you much more in the long run.
You ought to bring your car in for service as soon as you can if you have exceeded the mileage for routine maintenance.
The vehicle should be towed to a repair facility for diagnostics if it exhibits any transmission problems that cause you to worry about its drivability or any of the symptoms listed here.
How to Change the Transmission Fluid in a Kia?
- Set the parking brake and park the Kia Sportage on a level surface.
- Place the jack under the Kia Sportage’s front end and lift the vehicle from the cross frame underneath the engine. Place a safety stand under the frame of the Sportage on both sides once the vehicle is raised enough.
- Leave the jack in the up position and gradually lower the Sportage to the top of the safety stands.
- Locate the transmission drain plug on the bottom of the transmission pan by sliding under the driver-side of the Kia Sportage, close to the driver-side door. A 24 mm socket is necessary to remove and tighten the drain plug.
- Place the drip pan beneath the location of the drain plug. Using the 24 mm socket and 1/2-inch drive ratchet, loosen and remove the drain plug.
- Reinstall the drain plug and tighten it down with the ratchet and socket once all of the transmission fluid has been drained into the drip pan.
- Take Kia’s drip pan out from under it. Remove the transmission dipstick from the dipstick tube by opening the hood. The words “transmission” or “ATF” are written on the handle of the transmission dipstick.
- Enter the dipstick tube with the long neck funnel. Fill the dipstick tube with 3 Qts of SP-3 automatic transmission fluid. Slide the dipstick into the tube after removing the funnel.
- Turn the Kia Sportage on and keep your foot on the brake. The gear selector lever should be moved through each gear two or three times.
- Put the lever back into the park after that. Before examining the fluid level on the dipstick, let the engine run for about two minutes.
- With the long neck funnel, insert it into the dipstick tube. Three quarts of SP-3 automatic transmission fluid should be added to the dipstick tube. After taking out the funnel, insert the dipstick into the tube.
- Keep your foot on the brake as you turn the Kia Sportage on. Each gear should be cycled through two or three times with the gear selector lever. After that, put the lever back into the park. Allow the engine to run for about two minutes before checking the fluid level on the dipstick.
- Remove the dipstick while the engine is still running. Check the fluid level on the dipstick. Three quarts of transmission fluid should be added, and the fluid level on the dipstick should be at the full mark.
Some related FAQs about KIA transmission fluid change
What if I never change my transmission fluid?
Even if the transmission wasn’t slipping before, replacing the fluid with new fluid can cause the transmission to slip if it has never been changed before. This is so that the gearbox can still shift gears because the old fluid will have clutch material in it from being there for a long period.
How long does it take to change the transmission fluid?
Using a professional cleansing device or pump inlet, a skilled mechanic may complete a straightforward gearbox flush in three to four hours. About 30 minutes are needed to change the transmission fluid.
We hope you’ve got the answer that you’ve needed for the question, “KIA Transmission Fluid Change” reading our explanation. If you have more questions just leave a comment below, and we are really straightforward to help you further. If you need review and problems of the Dexron III Power Steering Fluid, check this link for it. Thank you.
