2022-2025 Kia Transmission Fluid Application Guide TSB

Why This TSB is Important

Using the correct transmission fluid is crucial for the longevity and proper functioning of your vehicle's transmission. This Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) TRA046 (Rev 5) from Kia serves as a vital resource, providing detailed information on the appropriate transmission fluid type and fill quantity for a wide range of Kia models from 2005 through 2025 model years.

Failing to use the specified fluid can lead to severe transmission damage, which may not be covered under warranty. This guide helps ensure that technicians and owners alike can identify the precise requirements for each specific Kia model and transmission configuration, preventing costly repairs and maintaining vehicle performance.

Understanding the Kia Transmission Fluid Guide

This TSB is a comprehensive application guide, detailing transmission fluid specifications for numerous Kia models. For example, for a 2022-2025 Kia Sportage, the TSB specifies Kia ATF SP4M-1 with part number UM022 CH269 and a fill capacity of 6.9 quarts. Other models, such as the 2022-2025 Kia Carnival (KA4) 3.5L, also use Kia ATF SP4M-1 with the same part number and fill capacity.

The guide covers various transmission types, including automatic transmissions (ATF), manual transmissions (M/T), Intelligent Variable Transmissions (IVT), and Dual Clutch Transmissions (DCT). It specifies whether a flush is required for each application and lists the maximum approved order quantity for the fluid. This detailed information is essential for accurate servicing and to ensure the correct Kia Sportage transmission fluid is used.

Transmission Fluid Flushing Procedures

According to TSB TRA046 (Rev 5), a transmission flush is required under specific conditions. A flush is only necessary when a transmission is replaced, and the transmission oil cooler (labeled as 'A' in the bulletin's diagrams) is transferred from the old transmission to the new one.

If the replacement transmission includes a new transmission oil cooler, then a flush is not required. However, if the oil cooler is transferred, technicians must perform a transmission cooler flush on the oil side. Failure to follow these flushing instructions, as outlined in related TSB TRA003, can result in severe damage to the replacement transmission.

Critical Warnings and Recommendations

Kia emphasizes several important warnings to prevent transmission damage and ensure warranty coverage:

• CAUTION: "Use of the incorrect fluid can result in damage to the transmission. Damage resulting from improper repair is not covered under warranty and may result in claim rejection or chargeback."
• NOTICE: "Transmission fluids cannot be ordered via DCS. Ordering information can be found, online, at Kia Chemicals website."
• IMPORTANT: "PN UM013 CH060 MUST be ordered through the Kia Chemicals website. DO NOT use aftermarket transmission cooler flush products."

These warnings highlight the importance of using only genuine Kia fluids and following prescribed procedures to avoid voiding warranties or causing irreparable damage to the transmission system. This applies to all models, including the Kia Sportage transmission fluid requirements.

Key Transmission Fluid Types and Part Numbers

The TSB lists a variety of transmission fluid types and their corresponding Kia part numbers. Some common examples include:

• Kia ATF SP-IV: Used in many automatic transmissions, with part number UM013 CH059.
• Kia ATF SP4M-1: Common in newer automatic and some DCT applications, identified by part number UM022 CH269.
• Kia ATF SP-III: Found in older automatic transmissions, with part number UM010 CH002.
• SAE 75W/85 API GL-4: Specified for many manual transmissions, with part number UM090 CH036.
• SAE 70W, API GL-4: Used in some DCT and manual transmissions, often with part number UM015 CH080.
• Kia SP-CVT1: For Intelligent Variable Transmissions, part number UM018 CH130.
• Transmission Cooler Flush Can: Part number UM013 CH060, specifically for flushing the oil cooler when required.

These part numbers are crucial for ordering the correct fluids directly from Kia Chemicals, as aftermarket products are explicitly prohibited.

Owner Action

If you own a 2022-2025 Kia Sportage or any other affected Kia model and are due for transmission service or replacement, it is essential to ensure that your service center consults this TSB. Confirm that the correct transmission fluid type and part number are used, and that any necessary flushing procedures are followed precisely. This will protect your transmission from damage and ensure your warranty remains valid.

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Source: NHTSA ID 11017172