How to Change DCT Transmission Fluid on a 2018-2023 Hyundai Kona (Drain & Fill Guide) (Engine: Inline 4 1.6L)
Step-by-step procedure with correct DCT fluid spec, tools list, safety tips, and temperature-based level check
How to Change DCT Transmission Fluid on a 2018-2023 Hyundai Kona (Drain & Fill Guide) (Engine: Inline 4 1.6L)
Step-by-step procedure with correct DCT fluid spec, tools list, safety tips, and temperature-based level check for 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023
🔧 Kona - Transmission Fluid Change
Your Kona’s dual-clutch transmission uses a specific DCT fluid and a temperature-based level check. If the fluid level is set wrong (too high or too low), shifting problems and damage can happen.
Before I give the exact step-by-step (with correct plugs, fluid spec, and torque specs), I need 2 quick details so I don’t steer you wrong.
Difficulty Level: Advanced | Estimated Time: 1.5-3.0 hours
⚠️ Safety & Precautions
- ⚠️ Work on a level surface; the DCT fluid level check depends on the car being perfectly level.
- ⚠️ Use jack stands (never rely on a jack alone).
- ⚠️ Transmission/exhaust parts can be hot; let the car cool first.
- ⚠️ Keep the area very clean; dirt in a DCT can cause shifting issues.
- ⚠️ Battery disconnect is usually not required for a fluid drain/fill, but keep the key away from the car while under it.
🔧 Required Tools
You'll need the following tools for this repair:
- Floor jack (rated 3-ton minimum)
- Jack stands (rated 3-ton minimum)
- Wheel chocks
- Safety glasses
- Nitrile gloves
- Trim clip remover tool
- Metric socket set (8mm-19mm)
- 3/8" drive ratchet
- Torque wrench (10-100 ft-lbs)
- Drain pan (10-quart minimum)
- Fluid transfer pump
- Shop rags
- Brake cleaner spray
- OBD2 scan tool with transmission fluid temperature data (specialty)
🔩 Required Parts
HowToo sells all the parts you need for this repair:
- DCT transmission fluid (Hyundai-spec for your Kona DCT) - Qty: 6-8 quarts
- Drain/fill plug crush washer(s) - Qty: 1-2
- Transmission/DCT filter - Qty: 1 (if equipped/if you’re replacing it)
📋 Before You Begin
- Park your Kona on a level surface and place wheel chocks behind the rear wheels.
- Raise and support the vehicle so it sits level on jack stands.
- Have your OBD2 scan tool ready—DCT fluid level is set at a specific temperature window.
- 2 quick questions (reply with A/B):
A) Are you doing a simple drain-and-fill, or are you trying to do a full flush?
B) Do you have an OBD2 scan tool that can read transmission fluid temperature on your Kona?
🔨 Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these steps in order:
Step 1: Pause here so we use the correct procedure
- Because your Kona has a dual-clutch transmission, the fill/level-check method and correct plugs depend on the exact service type (drain/fill vs flush) and whether we can verify fluid temperature.
- Reply with your answers to the two questions above, and I’ll give you the exact, Kona-specific steps including the correct fill point, level-check temperature window, and Torque to XX Nm (YY ft-lbs) specs.
✅ After Repair
- Once the level is set correctly, do a short test drive and confirm normal shifting.
- Recheck underneath for leaks after the drive.
💰 DIY vs Shop Cost
Shop Cost: $250-$550 (parts + labor)
DIY Cost: $80-$220 (parts only)
You Save: $170-$330 by doing it yourself!
Shop labor rates vary but typically run $100-$150/hour. This repair takes a shop approximately 1.5-3.0 hours.
🎯 Ready to get started?
HowToo makes it easy: same-day/2-day shipping on every part, plus all the tools and specialty tools you need! Check out the parts and tools sections below to add everything to your cart.
Guide for Automatic Dual Clutch Transmission Fluid replace for these Hyundai vehicles
| Year Make Model | Sub Model | Engine | Body Style |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 Hyundai Kona | - | Inline 4 1.6L | - |
| 2022 Hyundai Kona | - | Inline 4 1.6L | - |
| 2021 Hyundai Kona | - | Inline 4 1.6L | - |
| 2020 Hyundai Kona | - | Inline 4 1.6L | - |
| 2019 Hyundai Kona | - | Inline 4 1.6L | - |
| 2018 Hyundai Kona | - | Inline 4 1.6L | - |


















