2008 Kia Spectra Oil Type & Capacity
The 2008 Kia Spectra takes 5W-20 motor oil — 4.23 quarts with a filter change, per the factory service manual.
Factory-spec answer
5W-20 — 4.23 quarts with filter
Oil capacity by engine
| Engine | Oil Type (viscosity) | Capacity w/ Filter | Capacity w/o Filter | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EX, 2.0 1, Automatic | API - SJ, SL/ILSAC GF-3, SAE 5W-20, SAE 5W-30 | 4.23 QTS. | — | — |
| EX, 2.0 1, Standard | API - SJ, SL/ILSAC GF-3, SAE 5W-20, SAE 5W-30 | 4.23 QTS. | — | — |
| EX, 2.0 2, Automatic | API - SJ, SL/ILSAC GF-3, SAE 5W-20, SAE 5W-30 | 4.23 QTS. | — | — |
| EX, 2.0 2, Standard | API - SJ, SL/ILSAC GF-3, SAE 5W-20, SAE 5W-30 | 4.23 QTS. | — | — |
| LX, 2.0 1 | API - SJ, SL/ILSAC GF-3, SAE 5W-20, SAE 5W-30 | 4.23 QTS. | — | — |
| LX, 2.0 2 | API - SJ, SL/ILSAC GF-3, SAE 5W-20, SAE 5W-30 | 4.23 QTS. | — | — |
| SX, 2.0 1, Automatic | API - SJ, SL/ILSAC GF-3, SAE 5W-20, SAE 5W-30 | 4.23 QTS. | — | — |
| SX, 2.0 1, Standard | API - SJ, SL/ILSAC GF-3, SAE 5W-20, SAE 5W-30 | 4.23 QTS. | — | — |
| SX, 2.0 2, Automatic | API - SJ, SL/ILSAC GF-3, SAE 5W-20, SAE 5W-30 | 4.23 QTS. | — | — |
| SX, 2.0 2, Standard | API - SJ, SL/ILSAC GF-3, SAE 5W-20, SAE 5W-30 | 4.23 QTS. | — | — |
Buy the right oil
Buy 5W-20 motor oil on Amazon2008 Kia Spectra oil filter on AmazonAs an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases made through these links.
More specs & repair guides for your Spectra
2008 Kia Spectra factory service manualAll fluid capacities (transmission, coolant, brakes)Powered by factory manual data from our partner site AllOEMManuals.com.
Coolant capacity
6.97 quarts (6.59 L) — 50/50 mixture of Ethylene Glycol Antifreeze and water. The engine coolant should be compatible with aluminum engine parts.
Frequently asked questions
What type of oil does a 2008 Kia Spectra take?
The 2008 Kia Spectra takes 5W-20 motor oil (API - SJ, SL/ILSAC GF-3, SAE 5W-20, SAE 5W-30), per the factory service manual.
How much oil does a 2008 Kia Spectra take?
The 2008 Kia Spectra holds 4.23 quarts with a filter change.
Can I use synthetic oil in my 2008 Kia Spectra?
Yes. 5W-20 is widely available as a full synthetic, and synthetic is safe (often recommended) for the 2008 Kia Spectra. What matters most is matching the factory viscosity and specification, then changing the oil and filter on schedule.