• Table of Contents

  Toggle

  Kia Optima Hybrid 2019 Engine Coolant User Manual

Introduction

In the pursuit of creating a greener and more sustainable driving experience, the engineers at Kia have designed the Optima Hybrid with a sophisticated engine cooling system. The engine coolant plays a crucial role in maintaining the optimal temperature of the vehicle’s powertrain, ensuring that it performs at its best while also promoting fuel efficiency.

To ensure that this cutting-edge powertrain functions optimally, the engine coolant efficiently dissipates excess heat produced during combustion and electrical power generation. By actively regulating the engine’s temperature, the coolant not only enhances performance but also reduces emissions and minimizes wear and tear on critical engine components.

The 2019 Kia Optima Hybrid embraces innovation and sustainability, making it a top choice for eco-conscious drivers who don’t want to compromise on style, performance, or reliability. So, whether you’re embarking on a daily commute or a weekend getaway, the engine coolant in the Kia Optima Hybrid is there to support you, delivering both power and efficiency in perfect harmony.

Engine Maintenance

1. Engine coolant reservoir
2. Engine oil filler cap
3. Brake fluid reservoir
4. Air cleaner
5. Fuse box
6. Negative battery terminal
7. Positive battery terminal
8. Engine oil dipstick
9. Radiator cap
10. Windshield washer fluid reservoir

* The actual engine compartment in the vehicle may differ from the illustration.

1. Engine coolant reservoir
2. Engine oil filler cap
3. Brake fluid reservoir
4. Air cleaner
5. Fuse box
6. Negative battery terminal
7. Positive battery terminal
8. Engine oil dipstick
9. Radiator cap
10. Windshield washer fluid reservoir

The actual engine compartment in the vehicle may differ from the illustration.

MAINTENANCE SERVICES

You should exercise the utmost care to prevent damage to your vehicle and injury to yourself whenever per-forming any maintenance or inspection procedures.
Should you have any doubts concerning the inspection or servicing of your vehicle, we strongly recommend that you have an authorized Kia dealer perform this work.
An authorized Kia dealer has factory trained technicians and genuine Kia parts to service your vehicle properly. For expert advice and quality service, see an authorized Kia dealer.
Inadequate, incomplete or insufficient servicing may result in operational problems with your vehicle that could lead to vehicle damage, an accident, or bodily injury.

Owner’s Responsibility
NOTICE
Maintenance Service and Record Retention are the owner’s responsibility.

NOTICE
You should retain documents that show proper maintenance has been performed on your vehicle in accordance with the scheduled maintenance service charts shown on the following pages. You need this information to establish your compliance with the servicing and maintenance requirements of your vehicle warranties.
Detailed warranty information is provided in your Warranty & Consumer Information manual.

Repairs and adjustments required as a result of improper maintenance or a lack of required maintenance are not covered.
We recommend you have your vehicle maintained and repaired by an authorized Kia dealer. An authorized Kia dealer meets Kia’s high service quality standards and receives technical support from Kia in order to pro-vide you with a high level of service satisfaction.

NOTICE
NHTSA Safety Corrosion Alert
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued a general warning to all vehicle owners of all brands regarding the risks associated with vehicle underbody corrosion. From your initial purchase, take the following steps to prevent unsafe corrosion damage to your vehicle:

• Wash the undercarriage of your vehicle regularly during the winter and whenever your vehicle has been exposed to salts or chemicals.
• Do a thorough washing of the undercarriage at the end of the winter.
• Use professional service technicians or governmental inspection stations to annually inspect for corrosion.
• Immediately seek an inspection of your vehicle if you become visually aware of corrosion flaking or scaling or if you become aware of a change in vehicle performance, such as soft or spongey brakes, fluids leaking, impairment of directional control, suspension noises or rattling metal straps. NHTSA further advises that after a vehicle is 7 years old, it is essential that you take these indicated maintenance steps to ensure that you protect yourself from unsafe corrosion conditions.

Owner Maintenance Precautions
Improper or incomplete service may result in problems. This chapter gives instructions only for the maintenance items that are easy to perform.

As explained earlier in this chapter, several procedures can be done only by an authorized Kia dealer with special tools.

NOTICE
Improper owner maintenance during the warranty period may affect warranty coverage. For details, read the separate Warranty & Consumer Information manual provided with the vehicle. If you’re unsure about any servicing or maintenance procedure, have it done by an authorized Kia dealer.

WARNING
Maintenance Work

Do not wear jewelry or loose clothing while working under the hood of your vehicle with the engine running. These can become entangled in moving parts, if you must run the engine while working under the hood, make certain that you remove all jewelry (especially rings, bracelets, watches, and neck-laces) and all neckties, scarves, and similar loose clothing before getting near the engine or cooling fans.

WARNING
Touching Metal Parts

Do not touch metal parts (including strut bars) while the engine is operating or hot. Doing so could result in serious personal injury. Turn the engine off and wait until the metal parts cool down to perform maintenance work on the vehicle.

OWNER MAINTENANCE

The following lists are vehicle checks and inspections that should be per-formed by the owner or an authorized Kia dealer at the frequencies indicated to help ensure safe, dependable operation of your vehicle.

Any adverse conditions should be brought to the attention of your dealer as soon as possible.

Owner Maintenance Schedule When you Stop For Fuel:

WARNING
Ho Coolant
Be careful when checking your engine coolant level when the engine is hot. Scalding hot coolant and steam may blow out under pressure.

While Operating your Vehicle:

• Note any changes in the sound of the exhaust or any smell of exhaust fumes in the vehicle.
• Check for vibrations in the steering wheel. Notice any increased steering effort or looseness in the steering wheel, or change in its straight-ahead position.
• Notice if your vehicle constantly turns slightly or “pulls” to one side when traveling on smooth, level road.
  When stopping, listen and check for unusual sounds, pulling to one side, increased brake pedal travel or “hard-to-push” brake pedal.
• If any slipping or changes in the operation of your transmission occurs, check the transmission fluid level.
• Check the automatic transmission P (Park) function.
• Check the parking brake.
• Check for fluid leaks under your vehicle (water dripping from the air conditioning system during or after use is normal).

At least monthly:

• Check the coolant level in the engine coolant reservoir.
  Check the operation of all exterior lights, including the stoplights, turn signals and hazard warning flashers.
  Check the inflation pressures of all tires including the spare.

At least twice a year
(i.e., every Spring and Fall) :

• Check the radiator, heater and air conditioning hoses for leaks or damage.
• Check the windshield washer spray and wiper operation. Clean the wiper blades with clean cloth dampened with washer fluid.
• Check the headlight alignment.
• Check the muffler, exhaust pipes, shields and clamps.
• Check the lap/shoulder belts for wear and function.
• Check for worn tires and loose wheel lug nuts.

At least Once a Year:

• Clean the body and door drain holes.
• Lubricate the door hinges and check the hood hinges.
• Lubricate the door and hood locks and latches.
• Lubricate the door rubber weather-strips.
• Check the air conditioning system.
• Inspect and lubricate automatic transmission linkage and controls.
• Clean the battery and terminals.
• Check the brake fluid level.

SCHEDULED MAINTENANCE SERVICE

Follow the Normal Maintenance Schedule if the vehicle is usually operated where none of the following conditions apply. If any of the follow-ing conditions apply, follow the Maintenance Under Severe Usage Conditions.

• Repeated driving short distance of less than 5 miles (8 km) in normal temperature or less than 10 miles (16 km)in freezing temperature
• Extensive engine idling or low speed driving for long distances
• Driving on rough, dusty, muddy, unpaved, graveled or salt-spread roads
• Driving in areas using salt or other corrosive materials or in very cold weather
• Driving in heavy dust condition
• Driving in heavy traffic area
• Driving on uphill, downhill, or mountain road repeatedly
• Towing a trailer or using a camper, or roof rack
• Driving as a patrol car, taxi, other commercial use of vehicle towing
• Driving over 106 mile/h(170 km/h)
• Frequently driving in stop-and-go condition

If your vehicle is operated in any of the prior listed conditions, you should inspect, replace or refill more frequently, using the severe usage maintenance schedule instead of the nor-mal usage maintenance schedule.

Normal Maintenance Schedule – Non Turbo Models

The following maintenance services must be performed to ensure good emission control and performance.

Keep receipts for all vehicle emission services to protect your warranty. Where both mileage and time are shown, the frequency of service is determined by whichever occurs first.

MAINTENANCE INTERVALS MAINTENANCE ITEM	Number of months or driving distance, whichever comes first
	Months	12	24	36	48	60	72	84	96	108	120	132	144	156	168	180
	Miles×1,000	7.5	15	22.5	30	37.5	45	52.5	60	67.5	75	82.5	90	97.5	105	112.5
	Km×1,000	12	24	36	48	60	72	84	96	108	120	132	144	156	168	180
Drive belts *1		At first, inspect at 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 72 months, after that, inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 24 months
Engine oil and engine oil filter	Theta II 2.4L GDI	R	R	R	R	R	R	R	R	R	R	R	R	R	R	R
Fuel additives *2		Add every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 12 months
Air cleaner filter		I	I	I	R	I	I	I	R	I	I	I	R	I	I	I
Spark plugs	Theta II 2.4L GDI	Replace every 97,500 miles (156,000 km)
Valve clearance *3	Theta II 2.4L GDI	Inspect every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 72 months

I : Inspect and if necessary, adjust, correct, clean or replace.
R : Replace or change.

1. The drive belt should be replaced when cracks occur or tension is reduced.
2. If TOP TIER Detergent Gasoline is not available, one bottle of additive is recommended. Additives are available from your
   authorized Kia dealer along with information on how to use them. Do not mix other additives.
3. Inspect for excessive valve noise and/or engine vibration and adjust if necessary. Have an authorized Kia dealer perform the operation

Normal Maintenance Schedule – Non Turbo Models (CONT.)

MAINTENANCE INTERVALS   MAINTENANCE ITEM

Number of months or driving distance, whichever comes first

Months

12

24

36

48

60

72

84

96

108

120

132

144

156

168

180

Miles×1,000

7.5

15

22.5

30

37.5

45

52.5

60

67.5

75

82.5

90

97.5

105

112.5

Km×1,000

12

24

36

48

60

72

84

96

108

120

132

144

156

168

180

Rotate tires

Rotate every 7,500 miles (12,000 km)

Climate control air filter

R

R

R

R

R

R

R

R

R

R

R

R

R

R

R

Vacuum hose

I

I

I

I

I

I

I

I

I

I

I

I

I

I

I

Coolant (Engine)

At first, replace at 120,000 miles (192,000 km) or 10 years, after that, replace every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 24 months

Battery condition

I

I

I

I

I

I

I

I

I

I

I

I

I

I

I

Brake lines, hoses and connections

I

I

I

I

I

I

I

I

I

I

I

I

I

I

I

Brake discs and pads

I

I

I

I

I

I

I

I

I

I

I

I

I

I

I

Steering gear rack, linkage and boots

I

I

I

I

I

I

I

I

I

I

I

I

I

I

I

Drive shaft and boots

–

I

–

I

–

I

–

I

–

I

–

I

–

I

–

Suspension ball joints and mounting bolts

I

I

I

I

I

I

I

I

I

I

I

I

I

I

I

Air conditioner compressor/refrigerant

I

I

I

I

I

I

I

I

I

I

I

I

I

I

I

Exhaust system

I

I

I

I

I

I

I

I

I

I

I

I

I

I

I

I : Inspect and if necessary, adjust, correct, clean or replace.
R : Replace or change.

Normal Maintenance Schedule – Non Turbo Models

MAINTENANCE INTERVALS   MAINTENANCE ITEM

Number of months or driving distance, whichever comes first

Months

12

24

36

48

60

72

84

96

108

120

132

144

156

168

180

Miles×1,000

7.5

15

22.5

30

37.5

45

52.5

60

67.5

75

82.5

90

97.5

105

112.5

Km×1,000

12

24

36

48

60

72

84

96

108

120

132

144

156

168

180

Cooling system

–

–

–

I

–

I

–

I

–

I

–

I

–

I

–

Automatic transmission fluid

No check, No service required

Dual clutch transmission fluid

–

–

–

I

–

–

–

I

–

–

–

I

–

–

–

Vapor hose and fuel filler cap

–

I

–

I

–

I

–

I

–

I

–

I

–

I

–

Fuel tank air filter *4

–

I

–

I

–

I

–

I

–

I

–

I

–

I

–

Fuel lines, hoses and connections

–

–

–

I

–

–

–

I

–

–

–

I

–

–

–

Parking brake (Foot Type)

–

I

–

I

–

I

–

I

–

I

–

I

–

I

–

Brake fluid

–

I

–

I

–

I

–

I

–

I

–

I

–

I

–

I : Inspect and if necessary, adjust, correct, clean or replace.
R : Replace or change.

Fuel tank air filter are considered to be maintenance free but periodic inspection is recommended for this maintenance schedule depends on fuel quality.

Maintenance Under Severe Usage Conditions – Non Turbo Models

The following items must be serviced more frequently on cars normally used under severe driving conditions. Refer to the chart below for the appropriate maintenance intervals.
R : Replace      I : Inspect and, after inspection, clean, adjust, repair or replace if necessary

MAINTENANCE ITEM		MAINTENANCE OPERATION	MAINTENANCE INTERVALS	DRIVING CONDITION
Engine oil and engine oil filter	Theta II 2.4L GDI	R	Every 3,750 miles (6,000 km) or 6 months	A, B, C, D, E,   F, G, H, I, J, K
Air cleaner filter		R	More frequently	C, E
Spark plugs		R	More frequently	A, B, F, G, H, I, K
Automatic transmission fluid		R	Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km)	A, C, D, E,   F, G, H, I, J
Dual clutch transmission fluid		R	Every 75,000 miles (120,000 km)	C, D, E, F,   G, H, I, J
Brake discs and pads, calipers and rotors		I	More frequently	C, D, E, G, H
Parking brake (Foot Type)		I	More frequently	C, D, G, H
Steering gear rack, linkage and boots		I	More frequently	C, D, E, F, G
Suspension ball joints and mounting bolts		I	More frequently	C, D, E, F, G

MAINTENANCE ITEM	MAINTENANCE OPERATION	MAINTENANCE INTERVALS	DRIVING CONDITION
Drive shafts and boots	I	More frequently	C, D, E, F,   G, H, I, J
Climate control air filter	R	More frequently	C, E, G

Severe driving conditions

Repeatedly driving short distance of less than 5 miles (8 km) in normal temperature or less than 10 miles (16 km) in freezing temperature

Extensive engine idling or low speed driving for long distances

Driving on rough, dusty, muddy, unpaved, graveled or salt-spread roads

Driving in areas using salt or other corrosive materials or in very cold weather

• Driving in heavy dust condition F – Driving in heavy traffic area
• Driving on uphill, downhill, or mountain road repeatedly
• Towing a Trailer, or using a camper, or roof rack
• Driving as a patrol car, taxi, other commercial use or vehicle towing
• Driving over 106 mph (170 km/h
• Frequently driving in stop-and-go conditions

EXPLANATION OF SCHEDULED MAINTENANCE ITEMS

Engine oil and filter
The engine oil and filter should be changed at the intervals specified in the maintenance schedule. If the car is being driven in severe conditions, more frequent oil and filter changes are required.

Drive Belts
Inspect all drive belts for evidence of cuts, cracks, excessive wear or oil saturation and replace if necessary.

Fuel filter (for gasoline)
This gasoline powered vehicle is equipped with a lifetime fuel filter that is integrated with the fuel tank. Regular maintenance or replacement is not needed but depends on fuel quality. If there are any fuel related problems like fuel flow restriction, surging, loss of power, hard starting problem etc, fuel filter inspection or replacement may be needed.

Fuel lines, fuel hoses and connections
Check the fuel lines, fuel hoses and connections for leakage and dam-age. Have an authorized Kia dealer replace any damaged or leaking parts immediately.

Vapor hose and fuel filler cap
The vapor hose and fuel filler cap should be inspected at the intervals specified in the maintenance schedule. Make sure that a new vapor hose or fuel filler cap is installed correctly.

Vacuum crankcase ventilation hoses
Inspect the surface of hoses for evidence of heat and/or mechanical damage. Hard and brittle rubber, cracking, tears, cuts, abrasions, and excessive swelling indicate deterioration.

Pay particular attention to the hose surfaces nearest to high heat sources, such as the exhaust manifold.

Inspect the hose routing to assure that the hoses do not come in con-tact with any heat source, sharp edges or moving component which might cause heat damage or mechanical wear. Inspect all hose connections, such as clamps and couplings, to make sure they are secure, and that no leaks are present. Hoses should be replaced immediately if there is any evidence of deterioration or damage.

Air cleaner filter
A Genuine Kia air cleaner filter is recommended when the filter is replaced.

Spark plugs
Make sure to install new spark plugs of the correct heat range.

Valve clearance
Inspect for excessive valve noise and/or engine vibration and adjust if necessary. An authorized Kia dealer should perform this procedure.

Cooling system
Check cooling system components, such as radiator, coolant reservoir, hoses and connections for leakage and damage. Replace any damaged parts.

Coolant
The coolant should be changed at the intervals specified in the maintenance schedule.

Automatic transmission fluid
Automatic transmission fluid does not need to be checked under normal usage conditions.

But in severe conditions, the fluid should be changed at an authorized Kia dealer in accordance to the scheduled maintenance at the beginning of this chapter.

NOTICE

Automatic transmission fluid color is usually red.
As the vehicle is driven, the automatic transmission fluid will begin to look darker.
This is normal, and you should not judge the need to replace the fluid based upon the changed color.

CAUTION
Use only specified automatic transmission fluid. The use of a non-specified fluid could result in a transmission malfunction and failure. (Refer to “Recommended lubricants and capacities” in chapter 8.)

Dual clutch transmission Fluid
Inspect the dual clutch transmission fluid according to the maintenance schedule.

Brake hoses and lines
Visually check for proper installation, chafing, cracks, deterioration and any leakage. Replace any deteriorated or damaged parts immediately.

NOTICE
NHTSA Safety Corrosion Alert
NHTSA has warned all vehicle owners of all brands that they must maintain their vehicles in a manner which will prevent brake hose and brake line failures due to corrosion when such vehicles are exposed to winter road salt and related chemicals. While serious corrosion conditions typically only manifest them-selves as safety issues after 7 years of vehicle use, the corrosion process starts immediately and thus under-body cleaning maintenance must commence from your vehicle’s first exposure to road salts and chemicals. NHTSA urges vehicle owners to take the following steps to prevent corrosion:

1. Wash the undercarriage of your vehicle regularly throughout the winter and do a thorough washing in the spring to remove road salt and other de-icing chemicals.
2. Monitor the brake system for signs of corrosion by having regular professional inspections and watching for signs of problems, including loss of brake fluid, unusual leaks and soft or spongy feel in the brake pedal.
3. Replace the entire brake pipe assembly if you find severe corrosion that causes scaling or flaking of brake components.

Brake fluid

Check brake fluid level in the brake fluid reservoir. The level should be between “MIN” and “MAX” marks on the side of the reservoir. Use only hydraulic brake fluid conforming to DOT 3 or DOT 4 specification.

Parking Brake

Inspect the parking brake system including the parking brake pedal or lever and cables.

Brake discs, Pads, Calipers and Rotors
Check the pads for excessive wear, discs for run out and wear, and calipers for fluid leakage.

Suspension Mounting Bolts
Check the suspension connections for looseness or damage. Retighten to the specified torque.

Steering Gear Box, linkage & boots/lower Arm ball Joint
With the vehicle stopped and engine off, check for excessive free-play in the steering wheel.
Check the linkage for bends or dam-age. Check the dust boots and ball joints for deterioration, cracks, or damage. Replace any damaged parts.

Drive Shafts and Boots
Check the drive shafts, boots and clamps for cracks, deterioration, or damage. Replace any damaged parts and, if necessary, repack the grease.

Air conditioning refrigerant
Check the air conditioning lines and connections for leakage and damage.

Power steering pump, belt and hoses (if equipped)
Check the power steering pump and hoses for leakage and damage. Replace any damaged or leaking parts immediately. Inspect the power steering belt (or drive belt) for evidence of cuts, cracks, excessive wear, oiliness and proper tension. Replace or adjust it if necessary.

CHECKING FLUID LEVELS

When checking engine oil, engine coolant, brake fluid, and washer fluid, always be sure to clean the area around any filler plug, drain plug, or dipstick before checking or draining any lubricant or fluid. This is especially important in dusty or sandy areas and when the vehicle is used on unpaved roads. Cleaning the plug and dipstick areas will prevent dirt and grit from entering the engine and other mechanisms that could be damaged.

ENGINE OIL

Checking the engine oil Level

1. Be sure the vehicle is on level ground.
2. 2 Start the engine and allow it to reach normal operating temperature.
3. Turn the engine off and wait for a few minutes (about 5 minutes) for the oil to return to the oil pan.
4. Pull the dipstick out, wipe it clean, and re-insert it fully.
   WARNING
   Radiator hose
   Be very careful not to touch the radiator hose when checking or adding the engine oil as it may be hot enough to burn you.
5. Pull the dipstick out again and check the level. The level should be between F and L.

CAUTION
Replacing engine oil

Do not overfill the engine oil. It may damage the engine.

If it is near or at L, add enough oil to bring the level to F. Do not overfill.

Use a funnel to help prevent oil from being spilled on engine components.

Use only the specified engine oil.

(Refer to “Recommended lubricants and capacities” in chapter 8.)

Changing the engine oil and filter
Have engine oil and filter changed by an authorized Kia dealer according to the Maintenance Schedule at the beginning of this chapter.

WARNING
Used engine oil
Used engine oil may cause irritation or cancer of the skin if left in contact with the skin for prolonged periods of time. Always protect your skin by washing your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water as soon as possible after handling used oil.

ENGINE COOLANT
The high-pressure cooling system has a reservoir filled with year round antifreeze coolant. The reservoir is filled at the factory.
Check the antifreeze protection and coolant level at least once a year, at the beginning of the winter season, and before traveling to a colder cli-mate.

Checking the coolant level
WARNING

Removing radiator cap

Never attempt to remove the radiator cap while the engine is operating or hot. Doing so might lead to cooling system and engine damage and could result in serious bodily injury from escaping hot coolant or steam.

• Turn the engine off and wait until it cools down. Use extreme care when removing the radiator cap. Wrap a thick towel around it, and turn it counterclockwise slowly to the first stop. Step back while the pressure is released from the cooling system.
• When you are sure all the pressure has been released, press down on the cap, using a thick towel, and continue turning counterclockwise to remove it.
• Even if the engine is not operating, do not remove the radiator cap or the drain plug while the engine and radiator are hot. Hot coolant and steam may still blow out under pressure, causing serious injury.

WARNING
Cooling fan

Use caution when working near the blade of the cooling fan. The electric motor (cooling fan) is controlled by engine coolant temperature, refrigerant pressure and vehicle speed. it may sometimes operate even when the engine is not running.

Check the condition and connections of all cooling system hoses and heater hoses. Replace any swollen or deteriorated hoses.

The coolant level should be filled between F and L marks on the side of the coolant reservoir when the engine is cool.

If the coolant level is low, add enough specified coolant to provide protection against freezing and corrosion. Bring the level to F, but do not over-fill. If frequent additions are required, see an authorized Kia dealer for a cooling system inspection.

Recommended Engine Coolant

• When adding coolant, use only deionized water or soft water for your vehicle and never mix hard water in the coolant filled at the factory. An improper coolant mixture can result in serious malfunction or engine damage.
• The engine in your vehicle has aluminum engine parts and must be protected by an ethylene-glycol-based coolant to prevent corrosion and freezing.
• DO NOT USE alcohol or methanol coolant or mix them with the specified coolant.
• Do not use a solution that contains more than 60% antifreeze or less than 35% antifreeze, which would reduce the effectiveness of the solution.

For mixture percentage, refer to the following table.

Ambient Temperature	Mixture Percentage (volume)
	Antifreeze	Water
5°F (-15°C)	35	65
-13°F (-25°C)	40	60
-31°F (-35°C)	50	50
-49°F (-45°C)	60	40

•  
• 
•  

WARNING

WARNING
Radiator cap
Do not remove the radiator cap when the engine and radiator are hot. Scalding hot coolant and steam may blow out under pressure which may result in serious injury.

Changing the Coolant

Have the coolant changed by an authorized Kia dealer according to the Maintenance Schedule at the beginning of this chapter.

CAUTION
Put a thick cloth around the radiator cap before refilling the coolant in order to prevent the coolant from overflowing into engine parts such as the alternator.

BRAKE FLUID

Checking the Brake Fluid Level

Check the fluid level in the reservoir periodically. The fluid level should be between MAX (Maximum) and MIN (Minimum) marks on the side of the reservoir.

Before removing the reservoir cap and adding brake fluid, clean the area around the reservoir cap thoroughly to prevent brake fluid contamination.

CAUTION
Proper Fluid

Only use brake fluid in brake system. Small amounts of improper fluids (such as engine oil) can cause damage to the brake system.

If the level is low, add fluid to the MAX (Maximum) level. The level will fall with accumulated mileage. This is a normal condition associated with the wear of brake linings. If the fluid level is excessively low, have the brake system checked by an authorized Kia dealer.

Use only the specified brake fluid.(Refer to “Recommended lubricants or capacities” in chapter 8.)

Never mix different types of fluid.

In the event the brake system requires frequent additions of fluid, the vehicle should be inspected by an authorized Kia dealer.

When changing and adding brake fluid, handle it carefully. Do not let it come in contact with your eyes. If brake fluid should come in contact with your eyes, immediately flush them with a large quantity of fresh tap water. Have your eyes examined by a doctor as soon as possible.

CAUTION
Brake Fluid

Do not allow brake fluid to con-tact the vehicle’s body paint, as paint damage will result.

Brake fluid, which has been exposed to open air for an extended time should never be used as its quality cannot be guaranteed. It should be disposed of properly.

WASHER FLUID

Checking the washer fluid level

The reservoir is translucent so that you can check the level with a quick visual inspection.

Check the fluid level in the washer fluid reservoir and add fluid if necessary. Plain water may be used if washer fluid is not available. However, use washer solvent with antifreeze characteristics in cold cli-mates to prevent freezing.

WARNING
Flammable Fluid

Do not allow the washer fluid to come in contact with open flames or sparks .The windshield washer fluid reservoir is flammable under certain circumstances. This can result in a fire.

WARNING
Coolant

• Do not use radiator coolant or antifreeze in the washer fluid reservoir.
• Radiator coolant can severely obscure visibility when sprayed on the windshield and may cause loss of vehicle control.

WARNING
Windshield fluid

Do not drink the windshield washer fluid. The windshield washer fluid is poisonous to humans and animals.

PARKING BRAKE  (IF EQUIPPED)

Checking the parking brake

Check whether the stroke is within specification when the parking brake pedal is depressed with 66 lb, 294 N (30 kg) of force. Also, the parking brake alone should securely hold the vehicle on a fairly steep grade. If the stroke is more or less than specified, have the parking brake adjusted by an authorized Kia dealer.

AIR CLEANER

Filter replacement

The air filter must be replaced when necessary, and should not be washed.
While inspecting the air clear element, the air filter can be cleaned using compressed air

1. Pull out the air cleaner cover.
   
2. Unlock by turning the locking lever downward.
3. Pull the air cleaner filter to replace.

Replace the filter according to the Maintenance Schedule.
If the vehicle is operated in extreme-ly dusty or sandy areas, replace the element more often than the usual recommended intervals. (Refer to “Maintenance under severe usage conditions” in this chapter.)

CAUTION
Air filter maintenance

• Do not drive with the air cleaner removed; this will result in excessive engine wear.
• When removing the air cleaner filter, be careful that dust or dirt does not enter the air intake, or damage may result.
• Use a Kia genuine part. Use of non-genuine parts could damage the air flow sensor.

1. 

CLIMATE CONTROL AIR FILTER

Filter inspection

The climate control air filter should be replaced according to the maintenance schedule. If the vehicle is operated in severely air-polluted cities or on dusty rough roads for a long period, it should be inspected more frequently and replaced earlier. When you replace the climate control

air filter, replace it performing the following procedure, and be careful to avoid damaging other components.

1. Open the glove box and remove the support strap (1).
   
2. With the glove box open, remove the stoppers on both sides.
   
3. Replace the climate control air filter.
4. Reassemble in the reverse order of disassembly.

When replacing the climate control air filter install it properly. Otherwise, the system may produce noise and the effectiveness of the filter may be reduced.

WIPER BLADES
Blade inspection

Commercial hot waxes applied by automatic vehicle washes have been known to make the windshield difficult to clean.

Contamination of either the wind-shield or the wiper blades with foreign matter can reduce the effective-ness of the windshield wipers. Common sources of contamination are insects, tree sap, and hot wax treatments used by some commercial vehicle washes. If the blades are not wiping properly, clean both the window and the blades with a good cleaner or mild detergent, and rinse thoroughly with clean water.

CAUTION
Wiper blades

To prevent damage to the wiper blades, do not use gasoline, kerosene, paint thinner, or other solvents on or near them.

Blade replacement

When the wipers no longer clean adequately, the blades may be worn or cracked, and require replacement.

To prevent damage to the wiper arms or other components, do not attempt to move the wipers manually.

Using any aftermarket wiper blades could result in wiper malfunction and failure.

Front windshield wiper blade

To inspect or replace the windshield wiper blades and to prevent damag-ing the hood, move the windshield wiper blades to the service position as follows;
After turning off the engine, move the wiper switch to the single wiping (MIST) position within 20 seconds and hold the switch more than 2 sec-onds until the wiper blade is in the fully up position.

CAUTION
Wiper arms

• Do not allow the wiper arm to fall against the windshield, since it may chip or crack the windshield.
  Do not pull wiper arm forward, since arm could chip hood paint.

Type A

1. Raise the wiper arm and turn the wiper blade assembly to expose the plastic locking clip.

CAUTION
Wiper arms
Do not allow the wiper arm to fall against the windshield, since it may chip or crack the windshield.

1. Compress the clip and slide the blade assembly downward.
2. Lift it off the arm.
3. Install the blade assembly in the reverse order of removal.

Type B

1. Raise the wiper arm and turn the wiper blade assembly to expose the plastic locking clip.
   
2. Compress the clip and slide the blade assembly downward.
3. Lift it off the arm.
4. Install the new blade assembly.

FAQs

Useful Links

View Full User Guide: Kia Optima Hybrid 2019 User Manual| Auto User Guide
Download Manuals: Owner’s Manuals and Documents | Kia