Engine oil is an essential component of any vehicle and plays a crucial role in ensuring optimal engine performance and longevity. The engine oil lubricates the moving parts of the engine, reducing friction and heat, and prevents the engine from overheating or sustaining damage.
However, it is important to use the correct engine oil and change it at the recommended intervals to ensure your vehicle runs smoothly and efficiently. This article will provide detailed information on the 2015 Hyundai Sonata’s oil type, capacity, service intervals, and maintenance requirements.
What Kind Of Oil Do I Need For A 2015 Hyundai Sonata?
The owner’s manual of the 2015 Hyundai Sonata recommends using engine oil with the proper SAE viscosity grade and oil specification. The viscosity grade of the engine oil affects its flowability and performance in different temperatures. Lower viscosity oils are preferable for better fuel economy and cold weather performance, while higher viscosity oils are needed for adequate lubrication in hot weather conditions.
For better fuel economy, it is recommended to use the engine oil of viscosity grade 5W-30 (API SM / ILSAC GF-4 / ACEA A5 or above) for the 2.4 GDI engine. For the 1.6 T-GDI and 2.0 T-GDI engines, the recommended viscosity grades are 5W-30, 5W-40, 10W-30, 15W-40, and 20W-50.
It is essential to choose engine oil that meets the recommended specification. Using oils of any viscosity other than those recommended could result in engine damage and could void the vehicle warranty. It is also important to clean the area around the filler plug, drain plug, or dipstick before checking or draining any lubricant.
2013 Hyundai Sonata Oil Capacity and Filter
The 2015 Hyundai Sonata requires 4.8 liters or 5.07 US quarts of engine oil for all three engine types. When changing the engine oil, it is important not to overfill with oil. Adding oil in small quantities and rechecking the level will help ensure the engine is not overfilled.
For the 2.4 GDI engine, the recommended engine oil filter is the OE Hyundai oil filter (26300-35505). However, for the 1.6 T-GDI and 2.0 T-GDI engines, the recommended oil filter is the OE Hyundai/Kia oil filter (26320-3C30A).
It is important to change the engine oil and filter at the intervals specified in the maintenance schedule. If the car is being driven in severe conditions, such as in dusty or sandy areas or in extreme hot or cold temperatures, more frequent oil and filter changes may be required. Proper maintenance of the engine oil and filter will help ensure the engine operates efficiently and smoothly and prolong its lifespan.
Service Interval
The 2015 Hyundai Sonata requires regular oil changes to keep the engine running smoothly. The recommended service interval for engine oil changes depends on the type of engine and the driving conditions.
For the 1.6 T-GDI and 2.0 T-GDI engines, the engine oil and filter should be replaced at the following intervals:
- First, replace at 3,000 miles (5,000 km) or 6 months;
- After that, every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months.
For the 2.4 GDI engine, the engine oil and filter should be replaced every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 12 months.
Please keep in mind that if you’re driving your car in harsh conditions, like dusty or sandy areas or in extreme temperatures, more frequent oil and filter changes may be necessary. It’s also important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper maintenance and to consult a professional mechanic if you have any concerns about the engine oil or filter. By taking good care of your engine oil and filter, you can help ensure that your engine runs smoothly, efficiently, and lasts longer.
How to Check the Engine Oil Level
Checking the engine oil level in your 2015 Hyundai Sonata is a simple process that you can perform on your own. Follow these steps to ensure that your engine has the right amount of oil:
- Park your Sonata on level ground and turn off the engine. Make sure it has cooled down for at least five minutes.
- Open the hood and locate the engine oil dipstick. It usually has a yellow handle and is near the front of the engine.
- Pull the dipstick out and wipe it clean with a lint-free cloth or paper towel. Reinsert the dipstick all the way back into the tube.
- Pull the dipstick out again and look at the oil level. The oil level should be between the “F” (Full) and “L” (Low) marks on the dipstick.
- If the oil level is below the “L” mark, you need to add more oil. Make sure to add the oil in small amounts and recheck the oil level frequently to avoid overfilling the engine.
- If the oil level is above the “F” mark, you have overfilled the engine with oil. Remove the excess oil by using an oil extractor or by draining the excess oil from the drain plug.
Remember to clean the dipstick and the area around the oil filler cap before checking the engine oil. This will prevent any dirt or debris from entering the engine and causing damage.
How to Change the Engine Oil
Changing the engine oil in a 2015 Hyundai Sonata is a relatively straightforward process. Here are the steps to follow:
- Gather the necessary tools and materials: You will need a new oil filter, engine oil of the appropriate type and quantity, a funnel, an oil drain pan, a socket wrench set, and a jack and jack stands.
- Raise the vehicle: Use the jack and jack stands to lift the front of the car and support it securely.
- Drain the oil: Locate the oil drain plug underneath the car’s oil pan and place the drain pan underneath it. Loosen the drain plug with a socket wrench and allow the oil to drain completely into the pan.
- Replace the oil filter: Remove the old oil filter using an oil filter wrench, then lubricate the gasket of the new filter with a small amount of new engine oil. Screw the new filter onto the engine by hand until it is snug, then tighten it another 1/2 to 3/4 turn with the oil filter wrench.
- Refill with new oil: Remove the oil fill cap on the top of the engine and insert the funnel. Pour in the recommended amount of new engine oil, then replace the oil fill cap.
- Start the engine: Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes, checking for any leaks around the oil filter and drain plug.
- Check the oil level: Turn off the engine and wait a few minutes for the oil to settle, then check the oil level using the dipstick. Add more oil if necessary to bring the level up to the full mark.
- Dispose of the used oil properly: Transfer the used oil from the drain pan to a container suitable for recycling or disposal at a facility that accepts used oil.
It’s important to follow proper safety precautions when changing the engine oil, such as wearing gloves and eye protection and ensuring that the car is securely supported on jack stands. Additionally, always refer to the owner’s manual for the recommended oil type and service intervals.
Additional Maintenance Steps
To keep the Sonata’s engine running smoothly, it is important to perform additional maintenance steps in addition to regular oil changes. Here are some important steps to keep in mind:
- Inspect air cleaner filter – It is recommended to inspect the air cleaner filter every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months. A dirty air filter can decrease engine performance and fuel efficiency.
- Inspect vacuum hose – The vacuum hose should also be inspected every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months to ensure it is in good condition. A damaged vacuum hose can cause a vacuum leak, which can lead to rough idling or stalling.
- Inspect intercooler, in/out hose, air intake hose – Turbocharged engines have an intercooler, which cools the compressed air before it enters the engine. It is important to inspect the intercooler, in/out hose, and air intake hose for any damage or leaks every 6,200 miles (10,000 km).
- Add fuel additive – It is recommended to add a fuel additive to the fuel tank every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 12 months to help maintain engine performance and fuel efficiency.
By following these additional maintenance steps, the Sonata’s engine can stay in top condition and provide reliable performance for years to come.
Conclusion
In conclusion, maintaining proper engine oil levels is crucial to the longevity and performance of your 2015 Hyundai Sonata. To ensure the best results, use the recommended oil type with the proper SAE viscosity grade and oil specification.
Be sure to also regularly check and change the engine oil at the recommended service intervals. Follow the steps outlined in this article to ensure proper maintenance of your vehicle’s engine. By doing so, you can keep your Sonata running smoothly for years to come.
