Owning a Kia Stinger comes with the thrill of driving its powerful engines, but maintaining that performance requires some attention to detail. One essential task? Getting your oil change on point. Choosing the right oil and changing it regularly not only keeps your engine running smoothly but also ensures you’re getting the best performance possible. Let’s break it all down.
Understanding Kia Stinger’s Engine Options
The Kia Stinger offers multiple engine options, and each requires a specific approach when it comes to oil. If you’ve got one of the older models (2021 or earlier,) you might be running on a 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder that delivers 255 horsepower with 260 lb-ft of torque. If you upgraded to a 2022 or newer model, chances are you’re sporting the 2.5L turbocharged 4-cylinder, which ups the game with 300 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque. For those craving more power, the 3.3L twin-turbocharged V6 is where the magic happens, cranking out 368 horsepower and 376 lb-ft of torque.
Regardless of the engine, all that power demands proper maintenance to keep things running smoothly. And here’s where oil type and capacity become critical.
Kia Stinger Oil Type and Capacity
Each Kia Stinger engine runs best with a specific oil and capacity:
- 2.0L Turbocharged: Requires 0W-30 synthetic oil with a capacity of 6 quarts (including the filter.)
- 2.5L Turbocharged: Same 0W-30 synthetic oil, with different capacities—6.8 quarts for RWD models and 6.3 quarts for AWD.
- 3.3L Twin-Turbocharged V6: Uses 5W-30 oil with a capacity of 7.3 quarts, filter included.
When you’re performing a Kia Stinger oil change, using synthetic oil is highly recommended. It provides better protection, lasts longer, and helps maintain performance over time. Plus, with performance machines like these, cutting corners on oil quality isn’t worth the risk.
Synthetic Oil vs. Conventional Oil: What’s the Difference?
You’ve probably heard about synthetic oil being “better,” but why? The key is how it’s made. Synthetic motor oil is chemically engineered for consistent, pure molecules. By comparison, conventional oil is refined from crude and often contains impurities like sulfur or metals that can affect performance.
Synthetic oil reduces friction, performs better in extreme temperatures, and provides stronger overall engine protection. For a car like the Kia Stinger, known for its precision and efficiency, synthetic options fit its needs better than conventional oil. A synthetic blend like Valvoline High Mileage with MaxLife Technology 5W-30 balances affordability with improved protection. Meanwhile, a fully synthetic oil such as AMSOIL Signature Series 100% Synthetic 0W-30 offers top-tier performance and durability, especially under demanding conditions. Understanding the difference ensures the right choice for your engine.
- Valvoline High Mileage with MaxLife Technology 5W-30 Synthetic Blend Motor Oil: A strong contender, particularly for higher-mileage vehicles. If you’ve clocked a lot of miles on your Stinger, Valvoline’s formula helps reduce engine wear and protects against deposits that could impact performance. While it’s not fully synthetic, the blend provides a good balance of affordability and functionality.
- AMSOIL Signature Series 0W-30 100% Synthetic Motor Oil: If you want exceptional performance and reduced wear, this is one of the top choices. While it’s priced higher, AMSOIL delivers long-term value by extending engine life and helping maintain horsepower. It’s a solid pick for those who spend more time pushing their Stinger to its limits.
Tips for DIY Kia Stinger Oil Changes
Planning to tackle your oil change yourself? No problem! Just keep a few basics in mind to nail it without any hiccups.
Steps to Remember:
- Use the Correct Parts: Stick to original equipment (OE) drain plugs and replace the gasket when needed.
- Check Torque Levels: Tighten the drain plug to 25-33 ft/lbs, ensuring a secure seal.
- Monitor Oil Levels: After refilling, double-check oil levels to confirm accuracy.
- Don’t Skip the Filter: Always replace the oil filter during each oil change—clean oil deserves a fresh filter.
If your Kia Stinger isn’t hitting peak performance after an oil change, revisit the oil type and filter choices to ensure they’re up to spec. Taking shortcuts here could cost you in efficiency and engine health down the line.
Performance Benefits with the Right Oil
Why is oil quality such a big deal? The answer is simple: protection and performance. High-quality oils, especially synthetic ones, help reduce deposits, improve lubrication, and enhance fuel efficiency. With synthetic oil, your Kia Stinger accelerates smoother, maintains power under stress, and resists wear—even in extreme weather or aggressive driving conditions.
Although synthetic oil generally costs more upfront, it pays off with fewer breakdowns, lower maintenance costs, and prolonged engine life. So if you’re serious about keeping your Kia Stinger performing like a champ, premium oil is the way to go.
Learn more about the Kia Stinger’s features and performance here on MotorTrend.
The Bottom Line
Caring for your Kia Stinger means more than just filling up the gas tank and hitting the road. A proper oil change—not just on schedule but with high-quality synthetic oil—ensures your ride stays powerful and efficient for years to come.
Whether you’re considering AMSOIL for maximum engine protection or Valvoline for budget-friendly, high-mileage use, choosing the best option for your Kia Stinger oil type can make all the difference. Know your engine, pick the right oil, and don’t miss those regular oil changes. That’s how you keep your Kia Stinger running at its best. Time to get under the hood. Your Stinger deserves it. For more details on high-performance motor oils, explore: Valvoline here and AMSOIL Signature Series 0W-30 100% Synthetic Motor Oil here.