Typically, the Telluride’s 3.8-liter V6 engine requires about 5 quarts of engine oil for a full oil change with a new filter.
Oil capacity is listed as 5.0 quarts (4.7 L) with the filter in most model-year manuals. Exact amounts can vary slightly by year or engine revision, so it’s best to confirm with your owner’s manual or Kia’s official maintenance resources for your specific vehicle.
Oil capacity and engine details
The Kia Telluride sold in recent years uses a 3.8-liter V6 (Lambda II) engine. For a standard oil change that includes replacing the oil filter, the capacity is 5.0 quarts. This figure is published in the typical maintenance specifications across model years, though small year-to-year differences can occur, so always verify against your manual.
Before undertaking any oil service, gather the right materials and follow a careful procedure to ensure proper lubrication and disposal of used oil.
To help you plan, consider this checklist before performing an oil change.
- Oil capacity (with filter): 5.0 quarts
- Always replace the oil filter during the change
- Use the oil grade and viscosity specified by Kia for your model year
After you complete the change, run the engine a few minutes, recheck the level with the dipstick, and top off if necessary to reach the full mark.
How to verify and top off oil
- Park on level ground and turn off the engine. Allow it to cool briefly before checking the dipstick.
- Pull the dipstick, wipe it clean, reinsert fully, then pull it out again to read the level.
- If the oil is below the minimum mark, add oil in small increments (about 0.5 quart at a time), wait a minute, and recheck.
- Repeat until the dipstick shows the oil at the proper level, then run the engine and recheck again after a few minutes of operation.
Year-to-year notes
For most 2020–2024 Telluride models with the 3.8L V6, the capacity remains 5.0 quarts with filter. Some very early or special editions could have minor variations, but the 5.0-quart specification is the standard reference. Always verify using your vehicle’s manual or the Kia owner portal for your exact year and VIN.
Summary
In short, a Kia Telluride typically needs 5 quarts of engine oil for a full change with a new filter. Use the grade and viscosity recommended by Kia for your model year, replace the filter during the change, and confirm the exact capacity for your specific vehicle in the owner’s manual. Properly dispose of used oil and keep a maintenance log for future service intervals.
How to make a Telluride faster?
Chiptuning, or ECU remapping, involves modifying the software in your car's engine control unit (ECU) to optimize performance. This allows your KIA Telluride to unlock its hidden potential, giving you more power, better torque, and improved fuel efficiency. It's like giving your car a software upgrade!
What oil is recommended for a Kia Telluride?
5W-30 full synthetic oil
The Telluride's 3.8L V6 Powerplant
This engine requires 5W-30 full synthetic oil exclusively with approximately 6.3 quarts capacity including filter. Kia mandates synthetic with no conventional oil alternative available.
What kind of oil does a 3.6 L V6 take?
Jeep Wrangler Oil Type by Year & Engine — Complete Chart
| Engine | Model Years | Recommended Oil |
|---|---|---|
| 3.6L Pentastar V6 | 2012–2018 | SAE 5W-20 Full Synthetic |
| 3.6L Pentastar V6 | 2007–2011 | SAE 5W-20 Conventional or Synthetic |
| 3.0L EcoDiesel V6 | 2020–2026 | SAE 5W-40 Full Synthetic Diesel |
| 3.8L V6 | 2007–2011 | SAE 5W-20 Conventional or Synthetic |
What year is Telluride not to buy?
Kia Telluride Years To Avoid and Why
Skip the 2020 models if you can. First-year Tellurides racked up 479 National Highway Traffic Safety Administration complaints, more than any other year by far. Owners complained about cracked windshields, transmission hiccups, and glitchy electronics.