The 2018 Genesis G90 equipped with the 3.3-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine is a masterpiece of Korean automotive engineering, blending luxury with high-performance capabilities. To maintain the pristine condition of this sophisticated powertrain, using the correct lubricants is not just a recommendation; it is a necessity. The turbocharged architecture places unique thermal and mechanical stresses on the engine, requiring a fluid that can withstand extreme heat while providing superior protection against wear during the initial break-in period and throughout the vehicle’s life. Proper lubrication ensures that components like the turbocharger bearings and direct injection fuel system remain clean and efficient, preventing costly repairs and maximizing the vehicle’s fuel economy and longevity.
Recommended AMSOIL Products
- AMSOIL Signature Series 5W-30 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – The ultimate choice for this turbocharged engine, offering 75% more protection against horsepower loss and wear, ideal for extreme temperatures and extended drain intervals up to 25,000 miles.
- AMSOIL Extended-Life 5W-30 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – A cost-effective synthetic option that provides 37% more cleaning power than OE oil, ensuring the engine runs smoother with guaranteed protection for up to 20,000 miles.
- AMSOIL OE 5W-30 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – An API-licensed 100% synthetic oil formulated to fight sludge and deposits effectively, offering a high-performance alternative that exceeds OEM specifications.
- AMSOIL 5W-30 100% Synthetic High-Mileage Motor Oil – Specifically designed for vehicles with over 75,000 miles, featuring boosted detergents to clean engines and reduced sludge for enhanced performance.
- AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant – A pre-mixed 50/50 formulation that protects all cooling system metals, gaskets, and hoses, extending service intervals to 150,000 miles or 5 years.
- AMSOIL Propylene Glycol Antifreeze and Engine Coolant – A concentrated formula that offers exceptional protection against corrosion and erosion, suitable for both passenger cars and heavy-duty applications.
- AMSOIL Signature Series Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid – Designed to withstand the rigors of heavy towing and elevated temperatures, remaining fluid in sub-zero conditions while providing reserve protection during heavy use.
- AMSOIL OE Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid – A fuel-efficient synthetic fluid that protects against wear and ensures smooth shifting for the 8-speed automatic transmission.
- AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR® 75W-85 100% Synthetic Gear Lube – Advanced protection for front and rear differentials, controlling thermal runaway and protecting against rust and corrosion in limited-slip applications.
- AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid – Provides excellent ABS and traction-control responsiveness with a stable viscosity over a wide temperature range for safer stopping power.
For the 2018 Genesis G90, the engine oil specification calls for 5W-30 viscosity to cover all temperature ranges. The total capacity for an oil change, including the filter, is 7.3 quarts. It is crucial to install a new washer on the drain bolt and torque the drain plug to between 25 and 33 ft/lbs. After refilling, always check the oil level to ensure the engine is properly lubricated. The 5.0L V8 variant of the G90 has different requirements, but for the 3.3L Turbo, sticking to the recommended 5W-30 grade is essential for maintaining the high efficiency of the turbocharger system. AMSOIL oils are engineered to meet and exceed the rigorous demands of modern turbocharged engines, ensuring that the complex oil galleries and bearing surfaces remain protected.
The cooling system for the 3.3L G90 requires a total of 10.4 quarts of antifreeze. Maintaining the correct AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant mixture is vital for preventing overheating, especially when the twin turbochargers are under load. AMSOIL’s antifreeze options use unique OAT (Organic Acid Technology) formulations that protect against corrosion without the need for silicates or phosphates, which can sometimes cause issues in aluminum cooling systems. Whether you choose the pre-mixed Passenger Car Antifreeze or the concentrated AMSOIL Propylene Glycol Antifreeze and Engine Coolant, both provide up to 150,000 miles of protection, significantly reducing the frequency of flushes and maintaining optimal engine temperature.
When it comes to the transmission, the 2018 G90 utilizes an 8-speed automatic transmission (A8TR1-1). A total fill capacity is 9.7 quarts. Using a synthetic transmission fluid is critical for the longevity of the torque converter and gear clutches. The AMSOIL Signature Series Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid is particularly noted for its ability to withstand the heat generated during towing or spirited driving while maintaining fluidity in freezing conditions. This ensures smooth gear transitions and extends the life of the transmission components, preventing the slippage and harsh shifting that can occur with conventional fluids. For OE-compliant specifications, the AMSOIL OE Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid also offers excellent protection against wear.
The differential lubrication requirements are specific to the front and rear axles. Both the front and rear differentials require GL-5 rated lubricant. The front differential holds 1.5 pints, while the rear holds 3 pints of 75W-85 AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR® 75W-85 100% Synthetic Gear Lube. Using a high-quality synthetic gear oil like AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR is beneficial for these limited-slip differentials. It contains friction modifiers that are essential for proper operation, prevents rust and corrosion, and helps reduce operating temperatures to prevent thermal runaway, a common issue in differentials under heavy load.
AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid is another critical fluid often overlooked until it fails. The G90 requires a DOT 3 or DOT 4 compliant fluid. AMSOIL’s 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid offers superior performance by resisting moisture absorption and maintaining a stable viscosity across extreme temperatures. This leads to better pedal feel and responsiveness, which is a key attribute for a luxury sedan of this caliber. Regular changes with a high-quality synthetic fluid ensure the brake system remains reliable and free from the spongy feel caused by boiling fluid in hot conditions.
About the Vehicle
The 2018 Genesis G90 represents a pivotal moment in the automotive industry, as it marked Hyundai Motor Group’s ambitious push to compete directly with established luxury sedans like the Mercedes-Benz S-Class, BMW 7 Series, and Audi A8. Launched as a flagship sedan, the G90 was designed to showcase the pinnacle of the Genesis brand’s engineering prowess, offering a driving experience that combined the refinement of a traditional luxury car with the value proposition of a newer entrant to the market.
Powered by a choice of V6 and V8 engines, the 3.3-liter twin-turbo V6 introduced in the 2018 model year offered a compelling balance of power and efficiency. This engine delivers robust horsepower and torque, providing effortless acceleration that rivals more expensive counterparts. The vehicle’s platform, known as the Hyundai Premium Platform R, was engineered to provide a rigid yet comfortable ride, utilizing aluminum components to reduce weight while enhancing structural integrity. Inside, the cabin is a sanctuary of luxury, featuring premium leather upholstery, advanced technology interfaces, and state-of-the-art noise cancellation systems to ensure a serene driving environment.
Owners of the 2018 Genesis G90 often praise the vehicle for its exceptional value, which includes a comprehensive warranty package and a high level of standard equipment that rivals more expensive European competitors. The G90 is not just a status symbol; it is a technologically advanced vehicle equipped with features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and a sophisticated air suspension system that adjusts to road conditions in real-time. The brand’s origins in South Korea brought a unique approach to luxury, focusing on reliability and customer service, which resonated with buyers looking for a sophisticated alternative to European marques.
While the 2018 G90 is a reliable vehicle, like any complex machine, it benefits significantly from high-performance maintenance. One common area of concern for owners of turbocharged luxury vehicles is the buildup of carbon deposits in the engine, particularly on direct injection engines, which can lead to reduced performance and rough idling over time. Using AMSOIL Signature Series 5W-30 100% Synthetic Motor Oil with superior detergent packages and treating the fuel with high-quality additives like AMSOIL P.i.® Performance Improver can significantly mitigate this issue, keeping injectors clean and maintaining optimal horsepower.
Another potential issue with the G90, as with many vehicles featuring advanced suspension systems, is the potential for air suspension leaks or compressor failures as the vehicle ages. While the air suspension provides a “magic carpet” ride, maintaining the integrity of the fluid systems is key. While synthetic oils do not fix air leaks, they ensure the rest of the powertrain operates at peak efficiency, reducing the overall stress on the vehicle and potentially slowing the wear on components that work in tandem with the engine. Additionally, the twin-turbo setup places significant thermal stress on the engine bay; high-quality synthetic oils and AMSOIL Antifreeze & Coolant are essential to prevent oil breakdown and overheating, which are critical for the long-term health of the turbochargers.
Finally, brake fade and fluid boil are concerns in high-performance sedans, especially during spirited driving or long descents. The AMSOIL Synthetic Brake Fluid‘s higher boiling point ensures that the braking system remains consistent, providing the confidence and safety required for a vehicle of this stature. By understanding the specific needs of the 2018 Genesis G90 and employing the right lubricants, owners can ensure that their vehicle continues to deliver the luxurious, high-performance experience it was designed for, year after year.
In conclusion, the 2018 Genesis G90 is a testament to modern automotive engineering, and giving it the best possible care through the use of AMSOIL synthetic lubricants ensures that it performs at its peak. From the high-stress environment of the turbocharged engine to the precise shifting of the transmission, every component benefits from the superior protection offered by these specialized fluids.