Original Kia Transmission Oil vs. Mobis UAE Transmission Oil
Which One Is Better?
When it comes to maintaining the automatic transmission of Kia vehicles, most drivers face two main options:
Original Kia transmission oil (Made in Korea) and Mobis UAE transmission oil (Made in UAE).
Both are sold under the Mobis brand name, but there are important differences between them that directly affect gear shifting smoothness, transmission health, and the overall lifespan of your vehicle.
In this article, we provide a complete, accurate, and practical comparison to help you choose the best transmission oil for your Kia. 👇
What Is Original Kia Transmission Oil?
Original Kia transmission oil is typically manufactured in South Korea and produced by Hyundai Mobis.
Key Features:
Fully compliant with Kia’s official service manual standards
Excellent performance in both high and low temperatures
Prevents harsh or jerky gear shifts
Longer service life compared to non-Korean versions
This is the exact oil used and tested by Kia during vehicle production.
What Is Mobis UAE Transmission Oil?
The UAE version is also produced under the Mobis brand but is packaged or assembled in the United Arab Emirates.
Advantages of the UAE Version:
More affordable price compared to the Korean version
Acceptable performance for daily driving
Easier availability in the Iranian market
However, its quality is not completely equal to the Korean-made version, and its performance may be slightly weaker under demanding conditions.
Full Comparison: Original Kia (Korea) vs. Mobis UAE Transmission Oil
1. Base Oil and Additive Quality
Original Korean oil: Uses premium additives with higher stability and consistency
UAE version: Good quality, but not at the same level; more prone to performance drop in extreme temperatures
✔ Winner: Korean version
2. Transmission Performance & Shift Smoothness
Original oil: Extremely smooth shifting with no shock, especially in models like Cerato, Sportage, and Optima
UAE version: Generally good performance, but sensitive transmissions may experience slight shift hesitation or mild shock
✔ Winner: Original Korean oil for sensitive transmissions
3. Lifespan & Thermal Resistance
Korean original: Longer lifespan, approximately 60,000–80,000 km
UAE version: Usually 40,000–60,000 km
✔ Winner: Original Korean oil
4. Price
Original: More expensive
UAE version: More economical and budget-friendly
✔ Winner: UAE version for cost savings
5. Risk of Counterfeit Products
Original Korean oil: High risk of counterfeit products; must be purchased from a trusted supplier
UAE version: Counterfeits exist but are less common
✔ Conclusion: In both cases, buying from a reputable seller is essential
Which One Should You Buy? (Quick Summary)
| Oil Type | Quality | Lifespan | Shift Smoothness | Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Original Kia (Korea) | Excellent | 60–80k km | Very smooth | Expensive | Sensitive transmissions & drivers seeking top performance |
| Mobis UAE | Good | 40–60k km | Moderate to good | More affordable | Daily city driving & budget-conscious owners |
Final Verdict
If maximum quality, longer transmission life, and ultra-smooth shifting are your priorities, Original Korean Kia transmission oil is the best choice.
However, if you want to control costs while still using a reliable product, Mobis UAE transmission oil is a practical and economical alternative.
