How to Choose the Oil and Fluids for a Hyundai Santa Fe

The Hyundai Santa Fe, introduced as a compact SUV in 2001 then rebadged as a midsize SUV in 2007, is sold with either a gasoline or diesel engine, although the diesel engine version is not available for purchase in North America. As such, these steps will address all model years of the gasoline powered Hyundai Santa Fe.

Instructions

1

Top off your brake fluid reservoir as necessary with DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid. You can use the same fluid in your hydraulic clutch.

2

Maintain your automatic transmission at regular intervals; use Genuine Hyundai automatic transmission fluid, DIAMOND automatic transmission fluid SP-III or SK automatic transmission fluid SP-III. For the manual transmission, use Hyundai Genuine Parts manual transmission fluid, 75W90, API GL-4.

3

Mix an ethylene glycol antifreeze base with an equal proportion of distilled water to keep your radiator properly cool.

4

Lubricate the transfer case and rear axle with API GL-5, SAE 80W90 gear oil. Shell Spirax AX or an equivalent would be suitable.

5

Refill your power steering reservoir with PSF-3 type fluid as necessary.

6

Run SAE 10W30, 10W40 or 10W50 engine oil for all-temperature protection. In hot climates, when temperatures will definitely not fall below freezing, 20W40 or 20W50 would be suitable, and in cold climates, where temperatures won't rise above 100 degrees Fahrenheit, you may use 5W30 or 5W40.