2008 Kia Spectra Oil Type & Capacity: 5W-20 (4.23 quarts)
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. | — | — |
Complete Oil Change Bundle for 2008 Kia Spectra
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More factory specs & repair guides for your Spectra
🛞 2008 Kia Spectra Tire Size & Pressure →🌧️ 2008 Kia Spectra Wiper Blade Sizes →💡 2008 Kia Spectra Light Bulb Sizes →📖 2008 Kia Spectra Factory Service Manual →All fluid capacities (transmission, coolant, brakes)Powered by factory manual data from our partner network 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.
What is the oil capacity of a 2008 Kia Spectra?
The 2008 Kia Spectra oil capacity is 4.23 quarts with a filter change.
How often should I change the oil in my 2008 Kia Spectra?
Most 2008 Kia Spectra owners follow a 5,000–7,500 mile interval with conventional oil, or up to 10,000 miles with full synthetic. Always check the oil life monitor if equipped, and consult your owner's manual — Kia recommends intervals based on driving conditions, not just mileage.
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.