🧪Fluid Capacities
Kia Rio Fluid Capacities
All fluid capacities for your Kia Rio: engine oil, coolant, transmission fluid, brake fluid, power steering, and more.
Quick Answer
The Kia Rio requires multiple fluids maintained at specific levels. Engine oil, coolant, transmission fluid, brake fluid, and power steering fluid all have different capacities depending on your engine and model year.
2019-2024
2019-2024Engine Oil4.0 - 6.5 quarts (varies by engine)
Coolant (total system)6.0 - 10.0 quarts
Transmission Fluid3.5 - 4.0 quarts (drain & fill) / 7-9 quarts (total)
Brake FluidDOT 3 or DOT 4 — ~1 quart for full flush
Power Steering FluidElectric power steering — no fluid needed
Windshield Washer~1 gallon
Notes
- →Never mix different types of coolant — flush completely when changing brands
- →Many newer models use electric power steering — no power steering fluid required
- →Transmission fluid should be checked with the engine running and at operating temperature
- →Brake fluid absorbs moisture over time — replace every 2-3 years regardless of mileage
2013-2018
2013-2018Engine Oil4.0 - 6.5 quarts (varies by engine)
Coolant (total system)6.0 - 10.0 quarts
Transmission Fluid3.5 - 4.0 quarts (drain & fill) / 7-9 quarts (total)
Brake FluidDOT 3 or DOT 4 — ~1 quart for full flush
Power Steering FluidElectric power steering — no fluid needed
Windshield Washer~1 gallon
Notes
- →Never mix different types of coolant — flush completely when changing brands
- →Many newer models use electric power steering — no power steering fluid required
- →Transmission fluid should be checked with the engine running and at operating temperature
- →Brake fluid absorbs moisture over time — replace every 2-3 years regardless of mileage
2007-2012
2007-2012Engine Oil4.0 - 6.5 quarts (varies by engine)
Coolant (total system)6.0 - 10.0 quarts
Transmission Fluid3.5 - 4.0 quarts (drain & fill) / 7-9 quarts (total)
Brake FluidDOT 3 or DOT 4 — ~1 quart for full flush
Power Steering FluidATF or manufacturer-specific — ~1 quart
Windshield Washer~1 gallon
Notes
- →Never mix different types of coolant — flush completely when changing brands
- →Transmission fluid should be checked with the engine running and at operating temperature
- →Brake fluid absorbs moisture over time — replace every 2-3 years regardless of mileage
2001-2006
2001-2006Engine Oil4.0 - 6.5 quarts (varies by engine)
Coolant (total system)6.0 - 10.0 quarts
Transmission Fluid3.0 - 4.0 quarts (drain & fill)
Brake FluidDOT 3 or DOT 4 — ~1 quart for full flush
Power Steering FluidATF or manufacturer-specific — ~1 quart
Windshield Washer~1 gallon
Notes
- →Never mix different types of coolant — flush completely when changing brands
- →Transmission fluid should be checked with the engine running and at operating temperature
- →Brake fluid absorbs moisture over time — replace every 2-3 years regardless of mileage
Frequently Asked Questions
- How much coolant does a Kia Rio hold?
- The Kia Rio cooling system holds 6-10 quarts total depending on the engine. A drain-and-fill replaces about 50-60% of the coolant. For a complete flush, you'll need the full capacity amount.
- What type of transmission fluid does a Kia Rio use?
- The Kia Rio transmission fluid type depends on whether it's an automatic or manual transmission and the model year. Automatic transmissions typically use ATF WS, Dexron VI, or manufacturer-specific fluid. Manual transmissions use 75W-90 gear oil.
- Does a Kia Rio have power steering fluid?
- 2015+ Kia Rio models with electric power steering don't use power steering fluid. Older models with hydraulic power steering use ATF or manufacturer-specific fluid — check your owner's manual.
- What brake fluid does a Kia Rio use?
- Most Kia Rio models use DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid. DOT 4 has a higher boiling point and is preferred for performance driving. Never use DOT 5 (silicone-based) in a system designed for DOT 3/4.