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Kia Seltos Maintenance Tips: What Every Owner Should Know

The Kia Seltos has quickly become one of India’s top-selling compact SUVs, thanks to its bold styling, premium features, and strong performance. Whether you own the petrol, diesel, turbo, or iMT variant, regular maintenance is crucial to ensure your Seltos continues delivering smooth rides, fuel efficiency, and safety for years to come.

In this guide, we’ll share the most important Kia Seltos maintenance tips that every owner in India should follow to keep their SUV road-ready and in top shape.

 

1. Adhere to the Service Schedule

Kia recommends servicing your Seltos every 10,000 km or 12 months, whichever comes first.

  • The first service (at 1,000 km) is typically a general check-up.
  • The second and third services include oil changes, fluid top-ups, and detailed inspections.
  • Stick to authorized Kia service centers to maintain your warranty and use genuine parts.

Pro Tip: Use the MyKia app to book service appointments, track service history, and receive reminders.

 

2. Engine Oil and Oil Filter Checks

Regular oil maintenance is essential for engine longevity.

  • Check oil level monthly using the dipstick.
  • Change engine oil and oil filter every 10,000 km or sooner in dusty or high-traffic environments.
  • Use Kia-recommended synthetic oil, especially in turbocharged variants.

 

3. Coolant, Brake Fluid, and Transmission Oil

Your Seltos depends on healthy fluids for optimal performance:

  • Coolant: Check the coolant reservoir monthly and top up as required.
  • Brake Fluid: Replace every 2 years to maintain braking efficiency.
  • Transmission Oil: For automatic and iVT variants, get it inspected as per schedule—manuals may need a change every 40,000–50,000 km.

 

4. Tyre Maintenance

Tyres impact ride comfort, fuel economy, and safety.

  • Check tyre pressure every 2 weeks—recommended PSI is listed on the driver-side door frame.
  • Rotate tyres every 10,000 km to ensure even wear.
  • Wheel alignment and balancing should be done every 6 months or if you notice vibration or pulling.

Pro Tip: Carry a tyre inflator and a puncture kit, especially for highway drives.

 

5. Battery Health

A reliable battery is crucial for starting and running electronics.

  • Check the battery terminals for corrosion.
  • Test voltage during periodic services.
  • Expect battery replacement every 3–4 years.

Pro Tip: Turn off lights, infotainment, and AC when the engine is off to preserve battery life.

 

6. Brake Pad Inspection

The Seltos’ responsive brakes need periodic checks to stay sharp.

  • Listen for squeaking or grinding sounds.
  • Get brake pads inspected every 15,000–20,000 km, and replace when necessary.
  • Replace brake fluid as recommended.

 

7. Cabin and Engine Air Filters

  • Engine Air Filter: Replace every 10,000–15,000 km, especially if driving in dusty regions.
  • Cabin Filter (AC): Replace during every service to ensure clean airflow and odor-free interiors.

 

8. AC System and Vent Cleaning

A powerful AC is vital in Indian summers.

  • Get the AC system checked annually.
  • Clean vents and replace the cabin air filter to prevent musty smells.
  • If cooling drops, have the gas refilled and compressor checked.

 

9. Check the Electrical Systems and Lights

  • Inspect all exterior and interior lights monthly.
  • Ensure the infotainment system, rear camera, and sensors function properly.
  • Replace faulty fuses or bulbs immediately.

Pro Tip: Carry spare bulbs and fuses on long trips.

 

10. Protect the Exterior and Interior

Preserve the showroom look with regular cleaning.

  • Wash your Seltos weekly to remove dirt, tar, and pollutants.
  • Wax every 2–3 months to protect the paint.
  • Use UV protectant sprays on the dashboard to prevent fading or cracking.
  • Clean touchscreens with a microfiber cloth.

 

11. Drive Responsibly

The way you drive affects the wear and tear of your vehicle:

  • Avoid aggressive acceleration or hard braking.
  • For turbo variants, allow the engine to cool down after long drives.
  • Shift gears at appropriate RPMs to extend clutch and gearbox life.

 

Final Thoughts

Owning a Kia Seltos is a joy, but regular maintenance ensures it continues to offer premium performance and reliability. Follow the recommended service schedule, monitor fluid levels, and address small issues before they become costly repairs. Whether it’s city driving or long road trips, a well-maintained Seltos offers confidence, comfort, and efficiency.