3.8L DOHC GDI V6 Engine Complete Assembly for 2020-2025 Kia Telluride

A quick look at your own vehicle makes sure the right engine shows up:

• Confirm the 8th digit of the 17-digit VIN is 'C'.
• Verify the drivetrain is FWD (Front-Wheel Drive). If AWD, prepare to swap the oil pan and brackets.
• Locate the engine code stamping on the front of the engine block near the transmission bellhousing to confirm it reads 'G6DN'.

What the install really takes — plan and budget with confidence:

Special tools this job needs:

• Engine hoist/crane and heavy-duty load leveler
• Engine support fixture (OEM equivalent: 09200-1P100 or 09200-2S100)
• Fuel line disconnect tools
• High-quality torque wrench (1/4" and 3/8" drives)
• Kia Diagnostic System (KDS) or advanced bi-directional scan tool

Budget for these consumables at install:

• 7.1 quarts of 5W-30 full synthetic motor oil (API SN Plus / SP, ILSAC GF-6 spec)
• OEM Kia oil filter and new drain plug crush washer
• Fresh 50/50 mix of phosphate-organic acid technology (P-OAT) green/blue coolant
• Intake manifold gaskets (upper and lower)
• Exhaust manifold gaskets
• Oil filter housing gasket
• 6 new OEM-spec NGK Laser Iridium spark plugs
• High-temp RTV silicone
• Main coolant hoses and serpentine belt (recommended)

What your vehicle’s computers will need after the swap:

What’s involved: Reset Engine Adaptive Values & Crankshaft Position (CKP) Sensor Relearn

sources differ: Arm 1 states a dealer-level or professional bi-directional scan tool is required for CKP relearn and adaptive reset to prevent rough idling or misfires. Arm 2 states no dealer tool is required for basic operation, but recommends a 10-15 minute battery disconnect to clear adaptive memory. Cautious value 'yes' selected for programming requirement; a professional scan tool is highly recommended.

Pro tips for a smooth first start-up — hand them to whoever does the install:

• The Plastic Oil Filter Housing Trap: The factory plastic housing is notorious for cracking and leaking. Upgrade to an aftermarket aluminum oil filter housing while the engine is on the stand.
• Intake Manifold Removal for Spark Plugs: The engine is transversely mounted. To access the rear bank of spark plugs (Cylinders 1, 3, and 5), the intake manifold must be removed. Replace spark plugs and gaskets before dropping the engine in.
• AWD Transfer: If installing this FWD engine into an AWD vehicle, you must swap the original AWD oil pan, oil pickup tube, and intermediate shaft support brackets.
• Camshaft Actuator Dowel Pin: Ensure timing components and actuators are inspected and clean before installation.
• Ground Straps: Pay close attention to the location and condition of all engine-to-chassis ground straps to avoid electrical issues.
• Driveshaft Engagement: Ensure the intermediate shaft and right front driveshaft are fully engaged per recall guidelines to prevent rollaway risks.

Easy to get right once you know them:

• Ordering FWD for an AWD Vehicle Without Planning: Assuming FWD and AWD engines are identical. AWD requires swapping the oil pan and accessory brackets.
• Reusing the Old Plastic Oil Filter Housing: Reusing the original plastic housing or gaskets to save money, leading to immediate leaks.
• Neglecting to Reset Adaptive Values: Skipping the ECU adaptive reset and crankshaft relearn, causing poor shifting, rough idle, or misfire codes.
• Failing to Inspect the Splines on the Intermediate Shaft: Forgetting to inspect the right-front intermediate shaft splines, which may be worn or damaged.
• Ignoring Oil Consumption: Failing to manually check the engine oil level regularly via the dipstick.
• Lack of Maintenance Records: Failing to keep meticulous maintenance logs from day one of installation, which can lead to warranty denial.

Not issues with the units on this page — the manufacturer documented these for every engine of this family, wherever you buy one. Handy for your installer: