The 2018 Kia Sorento generally requires synthetic motor oil with a viscosity of 5W-20 for both available engines, using a full synthetic or synthetic-blend that meets API SN Plus and ILSAC GF-5 or newer specifications. Always consult your owner’s manual or a Kia dealer to confirm the exact grade for your engine and climate.
Engine options and oil requirements
The model year offered two engines—the 2.4-liter inline-4 and the 3.3-liter V6—both designed to work with the same broad oil grade. Climate, driving conditions, and regional specifications can affect the recommended grade, so verify the precise specification for your vehicle in the manual.
- 2.4L I-4 engine: Recommended oil is 5W-20 (synthetic or synthetic-blend) that meets API SN or newer and ILSAC GF-5 or GF-6 specs.
- 3.3L V6 engine: Typically uses the same 5W-20 grade with synthetic oil meeting API SN Plus and ILSAC GF-5 or GF-6.
In summary, both engines in the 2018 Sorento commonly call for 5W-20 synthetic oil, but always check the owner's manual for any climate-specific or regional variations.
Oil specifications to buy
When shopping for oil, use products that explicitly state compatibility with modern Kia engines and your region’s grade requirements. The following guidelines help ensure you pick the right oil.
- Synthetic oil or a high-quality synthetic blend is recommended.
- Viscosity typically 5W-20; some climates may require 0W-20 or 5W-30 depending on the manual, so confirm first.
- API service category: SN Plus or newer; ILSAC GF-5 or GF-6.
- Brand and packaging: Choose reputable brands with API and ILSAC certifications; avoid cheap or counterfeit products.
In practice, opting for a high-quality 5W-20 synthetic oil that meets API SN Plus and ILSAC GF-5 (or GF-6) is a safe, widely accepted choice for most 2018 Sorento owners.
Climate and towing considerations
For models subjected to extreme temperatures or frequent towing, consult the manual or a Kia technician. In some regions, the recommended grade may vary slightly, and a hotter climate sometimes prompts more frequent oil analysis or changes in schedule.
Maintenance and change intervals
Following the right intervals helps protect the engine. Kia’s recommendations vary with driving style and climate, but the following guidelines are common for synthetic oil on modern Sorentos.
- Normal driving: oil change every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or as specified in the manual.
- Severe driving or extreme conditions: consider shortening to about 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or per the manual's severe service schedule.
Always monitor oil level and condition, and adhere to the maintenance schedule printed in your vehicle’s manual. The Kia service department can also adjust intervals based on your actual driving profile.
Summary
For the 2018 Kia Sorento, the typical oil recommendation is a 5W-20 synthetic oil (full synthetic or synthetic blend) that meets API SN Plus and ILSAC GF-5 or newer. Always confirm the exact grade in your owner's manual or with a Kia dealer, as climate, towing, and regional guidelines can affect the specification.