Should Kia K3 use 5W20 or 5W30?
2 Answers
Dongfeng Kia K3 uses SAE 5W20 viscosity grade engine oil to improve fuel economy. The advantages of Kia K3 engine are introduced as follows: 1. Kia engine has compact structure. 2. The contact distance between component surfaces is short. 3. Low fuel consumption. 4. It can reduce fuel consumption and fully utilize the optimal performance of the engine. The following is the introduction about choosing engine oil brands: 1. If you need long-lasting engine oil, you can choose Mobil lubricants. 2. If you need engine oil with strong cleaning ability, you can use Shell lubricants. 3. If you need engine oil with strong oil film toughness, you can choose Castrol. 4. Engine oil with lower viscosity can save fuel and perform better in cold weather. 5. Engine oil with higher viscosity is suitable for hot weather, providing satisfactory lubrication effect.
When I first drove my Kia K3, I also struggled with choosing between 5w20 and 5w30. Honestly, referring to the vehicle manual is the golden standard. Kia officially recommends 5w20 because it's thinner, provides faster cold starts, and saves fuel—I've saved quite a bit on city driving. However, where I live, summers are extremely hot, and when driving on highways, the engine noise increases. After switching to 5w30, it felt smoother with better protection. The key is your driving habits and climate—if you often commute in traffic jams, 5w20 is sufficient; but if you frequently drive on highways or in hot weather, 5w30 offers more peace of mind. Engine maintenance shouldn’t be taken lightly—change the oil every 5,000 km to prevent premature wear, and don’t forget to check oil pressure. After five years of driving and trying both, I’ve found that matching the environment is most important—choosing randomly can damage the car and increase costs. Beginners should start with the manual and consult professionals at the 4S shop for advice.
