The Kia Telluride requires SAE 5W-30 full‑synthetic engine oil (API SN or newer), with a total capacity of about 6 quarts including the filter. Verify the exact specification for your year and market in the owner's manual.
Oil specification and capacity
Key specifications for the Telluride’s engine oil, including viscosity, type, API rating, and overall capacity, are listed below.
- Viscosity: SAE 5W-30
- Oil type: Full-synthetic
- API service: SN or newer
- Oil capacity: Approximately 6 quarts (5.7 liters) with filter
Choosing the correct oil grade and a high-quality synthetic that meets API SN or newer is essential for engine protection and warranty compliance. Avoid mixing viscosities or conventional oil with synthetic oils.
Maintenance interval and service considerations
Oil-change intervals for the Telluride follow Kia's guidance and depend on driving conditions.
- Normal-service interval: about 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first
- Severe-service interval: about 3,750 miles (6,000 km) or 6 months
Always consult the owner's manual for year-specific intervals and consider climate, towing, and daily mileage. Use Kia-approved oil and filters for best results.
Confirming the exact spec for your vehicle
Oil specifications can vary by year and market. Check the owner's manual, the Kia service portal, or speak with a dealer to confirm the precise grade and interval for your Telluride’s engine. In most cases, the 3.8L V6 in Telluride models uses 5W-30 synthetic oil.
Summary
The Kia Telluride’s engine oil is SAE 5W-30 full synthetic (API SN or newer). The engine holds roughly 6 quarts with filter, and standard oil-change intervals are typically every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) under normal driving or sooner under severe conditions. Always verify the exact specification and interval for your model year and market in the owner's manual or with a Kia dealer, and use a high-quality synthetic oil that meets API SN or newer.
What type of oil does my 2020 Kia Telluride take?
SAE 5W-30 full synthetic motor oil
The recommended oil type for the Kia Telluride is SAE 5W-30 full synthetic motor oil. This oil type offers optimal protection in a wide range of temperatures, ensuring smooth performance in both hot Florida summers and cooler winter conditions.
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 best for 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.
Does Kia Telluride take full synthetic oil?
Engine Oil
Viscosity: 5W-30 (All TEMPS) - Full Synthetic engine oil is preferred. Capacity: 6.9 quarts (with filter).