The 2013 Kia Optima uses a cartridge-style oil filter housed in a replaceable filter cartridge, not a traditional spin-on filter. The exact part number depends on which engine your car has—the 2.4-liter engine or the 2.0-liter turbo—so you’ll want to confirm your engine type when ordering.
Engine options and filter design
Across its 2013 lineup, the Optima offered at least two engines: a 2.4-liter four-cylinder and a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder. In both cases, Kia uses a cartridge-style oil filter that sits inside a small housing. The service procedure involves removing the housing cap, exchanging the cartridge element, and resealing the housing with a new cap O‑ring if required.
Identifying your engine
To ensure you get the correct filter, identify which engine is in your vehicle. The engine code can be found on the engine itself or in the vehicle’s VIN-based documentation. The owner’s manual or a Kia Parts catalog can confirm the exact filter configuration for your engine variant.
Determining the correct part number
Because part numbers differ by engine, you should verify the exact filter for your car using one of these approaches before purchasing:
- Check the official Kia parts catalog or dealership website by entering your VIN or engine code to pull the precise oil filter part number.
- Use a reputable auto parts retailer and filter by year, make, model, and engine to see compatible cartridge filters.
- Consult the owner’s manual or service manual, which lists the OEM part number for your engine variant.
- Ask a Kia service advisor or technician to confirm the correct cartridge filter for your 2013 Optima’s engine.
With a cartridge-style filter, the exact number can vary depending on whether you have the 2.4L engine or the 2.0L turbo, so a VIN- or engine-code check helps prevent ordering the wrong part.
How to replace the oil filter
- Warm up the engine and park on a level surface; apply the parking brake and place a drain pan underneath.
- Drain the engine oil by removing the oil drain plug and allowing the oil to fully flow out.
- Remove the oil filter housing cap using the appropriate tool specified in the service manual; take note of the cap orientation and the O-ring location.
- Take out the old cartridge filter from the housing and discard it according to local guidelines; clean the housing if needed.
- Install a new cartridge filter and a new O-ring on the housing cap if required; reassemble the cap securely.
- Refill the engine with the recommended oil capacity and grade, then start the engine and check for leaks.
Following the proper cartridge-style filter replacement steps helps ensure effective filtration and engine protection for your Optima’s specific engine.
Summary
In short, the 2013 Kia Optima uses a cartridge-type oil filter inside a housing, with the exact OEM part number depending on whether you have the 2.4-liter or the 2.0-liter turbo engine. To buy the right filter, verify your engine type via the VIN or engine code and consult the official Kia parts catalog or a trusted retailer. When replacing, follow the cartridge-filter service procedure outlined in the vehicle’s manual to ensure a proper seal and filtration performance.