How to Replace the Oil Pan Gasket in a Kia Spectra

If you notice a puddle of oil under your Kia Spectra, it may need a new oil pan gasket. Here's how to replace the oil pan gasket on a 2000 to 2004 Kia Spectra with a motor of 1.5 L or larger. Replacing the gasket on smaller motors is more challenging and requires removing more engine components. Changing the gasket on newer Kia models is also more complicated, and should be left to experienced mechanics.

Instructions

1

Park the Kia Spectra on a level surface and set the parking brake. Jack the car up onto a jack stand, and block the rear wheels to keep them from rolling. Disconnect the negative battery cable before proceeding.

2

Crawl under the vehicle and locate the plug on the bottom of the oil pan. Loosen the plug with a wrench and let the old oil drain into a bucket. Once all the oil drains, replace the plug.

3

Disconnect the connector on the rear oxygen sensor, and take off the front muffler, front muffler bracket and exhaust manifold. Loosen the bolts on the oil pan and carefully remove the oil pan.

4

Use a gasket scraper and a razor blade to remove the old gasket, and then wipe the surface with solvent. Be sure the surface is completely clean, or the new gasket won't adhere. Wipe out the inside of the oil pan.

5

Apply an even bead of liquid gasket down the center of the joining surface, and quickly replace the oil pan. Tighten the bolts with a torque wrench to 7 to 8.5 ft. lb.

6

Reinstall the muffler bracket, exhaust manifold, front muffler and the connector to the oxygen sensor.

7

Lower the vehicle and pour 4 qt. into the engine. Kia recommends 4 qt. of oil for the Spectra, but always check the level with the dipstick.