The oil filter on a 2020 Kia Sorento is located inside a cartridge-style housing mounted to the engine block, not as a traditional spin-on canister. Access is typically from beneath the vehicle after removing the under‑tray. The exact spot is similar across the main engines used that year, though there can be small variations in access depending on trim and shield removal.
Engine options and filter housing
The Sorento’s 2020 lineup included at least a 2.4-liter GDI inline-four and a 3.3-liter V6. In both cases, the oil filter is a cartridge inside a plastic housing on the engine block. The general layout is the same across engines, but some access points may vary slightly due to shielding or components in the way.
- 2.4L GDI I4 — The cartridge filter sits inside a compact plastic housing mounted to the side of the engine block, near the oil pan. The housing cap is removed with the appropriate tool to insert a new cartridge and O‑ring, then reseal and refill oil.
- 3.3L V6 — Uses a cartridge inside a housing on the engine block as well. Access is commonly from the underside, with the cap removed to replace the cartridge and O‑ring, followed by reassembly and oil refill.
Exact access can vary by model year, trim, or protective shields. If you don’t immediately see a cartridge inside a housing, consult the owner's manual or a Kia service technician for the proper location and filter type for your exact configuration.
How to access and replace the oil filter
To service the filter, you’ll typically need to gain access from beneath the Sorento after removing the undercarriage shield. The following steps outline a typical cartridge-filter replacement process.
- Park on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and raise the front of the vehicle with jack stands. Never rely on a jack alone.
- Remove the front splash shield or undertray to expose the engine’s lower side where the filter housing sits.
- Locate the oil filter housing on the engine block. It will be a plastic canister with a removable cap or plug.
- Place a catch pan under the housing, then use the appropriate tool to remove the housing cap and expose the old cartridge.
- Remove the old cartridge, inspect and replace any O‑rings or seals, and install a new cartridge with a new O‑ring in the cap.
- Reinstall the housing cap and torque to the manufacturer’s specification as per the service manual. Reinstall the undertray.
- Lower the vehicle, refill engine oil to the proper level, and check for leaks.
Always use the correct OEM or approved filter cartridge for your exact Sorento engine, and consult the service manual for torque specs and oil type. If you’re unsure, have a professional perform the change.
What to know before you begin
Safety first: the engine and exhaust components can become extremely hot, and used oil is hazardous. Wear gloves and eye protection, and dispose of used oil and the old filter at a proper recycling facility.
Summary
The 2020 Kia Sorento uses a cartridge-style oil filter housed in a plastic canister mounted to the engine block. Access usually requires lowering the vehicle and removing the undercarriage shield to reach the housing cap, where the cartridge is replaced and the system is re-filled with oil. Confirm the exact location for your engine variant in the owner’s manual or a service guide, and consider professional service if you’re unsure.
Are Kia Sorento good in snow?
Do I need the X-Pro to drive in snow? No. AWD Sorento models with Snow Mode provide capable winter performance for most drivers. X-Pro hardware adds extra traction for more demanding, low-grip situations.
Ask about result
Where is the oil filter on a 2020 Kia?
Hello YouTube welcome back to a new video so this is a 2020 Kia Sonto. So someone asked me to show them where to find their oil filter for the motor. Or I should say motor oil filter.
Where is the engine oil filter located?
The oil filter is usually located beside the oil pan or under the hood of your vehicle near the engine. Place the collection pan under the filter. You can use a filter wrench to help remove.
Where is the oil filter on a Kia Sorento?
Right here is your oil filter housing. You're just going to use your 27 mm socket to unscrew this do not try use anything else don't try use a pipe wrench a crescent wrench anything use a sixpoint