Replace the transmission oil cooler, which circulates transmission fluid to prevent overheating during operation.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Transmission oil cooler × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Transmission cooler line O-rings × 2 — Use OEM specification
• Transmission drain plug crush washer × 1 — Use OEM specification

Fluids

• Kia SP-IV-M ATF — 4 qt

Preparation

1. Ensure engine and transmission are completely cool to the touch
2. Raise vehicle and secure on jack stands at all four corners
3. Remove engine splash shield using 10mm socket
4. Place drain pan under transmission oil cooler lines
5. Have all replacement parts and fluids ready before disconnecting lines

Procedure

1. 1

   Drain transmission fluid
   Locate the transmission drain plug on the bottom of the transmission pan. Place drain pan underneath and remove the drain plug using a 14mm socket. Allow fluid to drain completely. Remove and discard the old crush washer from the drain plug.
   Torque spec

   Transmission Drain Plug30 Nm (22 lb-ft)
2. 2

   Access transmission cooler lines
   From beneath the vehicle, locate the two transmission cooler lines running from the transmission to the radiator on the passenger side. Clean the area around the connection points at both the transmission and radiator ends to prevent contamination.
   ℹ️Take photos of line routing before removal for proper reinstallation reference.
3. 3

   Disconnect cooler lines at transmission
   Using a line wrench, carefully loosen and disconnect both transmission cooler lines at the transmission case. Immediately plug the open transmission ports with clean shop towels or rubber caps to prevent debris entry. Allow residual fluid to drain into the pan.
   ⚠Use line wrenches to prevent rounding off the fittings. Do not use standard open-end wrenches.
4. 4

   Disconnect cooler lines at radiator
   Move to the radiator end and use a line wrench to disconnect both transmission cooler lines from the oil cooler fittings on the radiator. Some coolant may drip from the area; this is normal. Cap the lines to prevent contamination.
   ℹ️On this vehicle, the transmission oil cooler is integrated into the radiator assembly. If replacing the cooler only, the radiator may need partial removal for access.
5. 5

   Remove transmission oil cooler
   Remove the mounting bolts securing the transmission oil cooler assembly using the appropriate socket. Carefully extract the cooler from its mounting location, keeping it level to minimize fluid spillage. Inspect the mounting area and clean any debris.
   Torque spec

   Mounting Bolts58 Nm (43 lb-ft)
6. 6

   Prepare new transmission oil cooler
   Unpack the new transmission oil cooler and verify it matches the original unit. Install new O-rings on both cooler line fittings, lightly lubricating them with clean ATF. Check that all mounting holes align properly.
   ℹ️Do not reuse old O-rings as they will leak. Always use new O-rings supplied with the cooler.
7. 7

   Install new transmission oil cooler
   Position the new transmission oil cooler in the mounting location, ensuring proper alignment with all mounting points. Install mounting bolts and tighten to specification in a criss-cross pattern to ensure even seating.
   Torque spec

   Mounting Bolts58 Nm (43 lb-ft)
8. 8

   Reconnect transmission cooler lines
   Connect both transmission cooler lines to the new cooler at the radiator end first, tightening with a line wrench until snug. Then connect the lines to the transmission case, again using a line wrench. Ensure connections are secure but do not over-tighten.
   ⚠Thread fittings carefully by hand first to avoid cross-threading. Tighten line fittings snug but do not over-torque as this can damage the flare seats.
9. 9

   Reinstall transmission drain plug
   Install a new crush washer on the transmission drain plug. Thread the drain plug into the transmission pan by hand, then tighten to specification using a torque wrench.
   Torque spec

   Transmission Drain Plug30 Nm (22 lb-ft)
10. 10

    Refill transmission fluid
    Locate the transmission dipstick tube. Using a fluid transfer pump and funnel, add 3.5 quarts of Kia SP-IV-M ATF through the dipstick tube. Start the engine and allow it to reach operating temperature while cycling through all gear positions (3 seconds each). With engine idling and transmission in Park, check the fluid level and add additional fluid as needed to reach the HOT range on the dipstick.
    ⚠Only use Kia SP-IV-M ATF. Use of incorrect fluid will cause transmission damage.
    ℹ️Final fluid level must be checked with transmission at operating temperature (approximately 175°F).
11. 11

    Inspect for leaks
    With the engine running and transmission in Park, carefully inspect all cooler line connections at both the transmission and radiator ends for signs of leakage. Check the drain plug for leaks. Allow the engine to run for 5 minutes, then recheck all connections.
    ⚠Keep hands and tools clear of moving components while engine is running.

Reassembly

1. Reinstall engine splash shield and torque fasteners to 10 Nm
2. Lower vehicle from jack stands
3. Test drive vehicle for 10-15 minutes, cycling through all gears multiple times
4. Recheck transmission fluid level after test drive with transmission at operating temperature
5. Inspect under vehicle one final time for any signs of fluid leakage

Verification

• Transmission fluid level is within HOT range on dipstick with engine at operating temperature
• No leaks visible at transmission cooler connections, transmission drain plug, or cooler mounting area
• Transmission shifts smoothly through all gears without slipping or delayed engagement
• No warning lights illuminated on instrument cluster
• Transmission temperature remains within normal operating range during test drive

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