Reference figures for the Rover K‑Series engine family, fitted across Freelander, Rover 25/45/75, MG ZR/ZS/ZT and numerous other applications. No opinions, no verdicts — just the numbers, correctly sourced and verified against variant differences.
The K‑Series takes between 4.0 and 4.6 litres of engine oil with a filter change, depending on displacement. The recommended grade is 10W-40 for most applications, though 5W-40 is also widely used in colder climates. [PLACEHOLDER — confirm vs OEM workshop data]
Full specification table, variant differences, common mistakes and the critical caveat around head gasket health explained below.
| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Capacity with filter change (1.4L) | ~4.0 litres [PLACEHOLDER] |
| Capacity with filter change (1.6L) | ~4.5 litres [PLACEHOLDER] |
| Capacity with filter change (1.8L) | ~4.6 litres [PLACEHOLDER] |
| Capacity without filter change | Subtract ~0.3–0.4 litres from with-filter figure |
| Recommended viscosity (UK) | 10W-40 (semi‑synthetic) / 5W-40 (cold climate) |
| Manufacturer service interval | 6,000 miles / 12 months [PLACEHOLDER] |
| Oil filter type | Spin‑on canister, side‑mounted on most applications |
| Oil specification | API SL or higher; ACEA A3/B3 |
Figures marked [PLACEHOLDER] require confirmation against the OEM workshop manual before this page goes live — flagged here deliberately rather than guessed.
The K‑Series was produced in several displacements across nearly 20 years, with differences in sump design and oil filter location affecting capacity.
| Displacement | Application | Capacity with Filter | Filter Type | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1.4-litre | Rover 25, MG ZR | ~4.0 litres [PLACEHOLDER] | Spin‑on | Early 8‑valve; later 16‑valve |
| 1.6-litre | Rover 45, MG ZS, early Freelander | ~4.5 litres [PLACEHOLDER] | Spin‑on | 16‑valve; common in Rover 45 |
| 1.8-litre | Rover 75, MG ZT, Freelander 1, Land Rover | ~4.6 litres [PLACEHOLDER] | Spin‑on | Most common; also turbocharged (1.8T) |
The K‑Series is a robust engine when properly maintained, but it has a well‑known sensitivity to oil condition and cooling system health. The recommended 10W-40 grade is suitable for UK climates, though many specialists recommend a quality semi‑synthetic or fully synthetic oil for the 1.8 Turbo to handle higher operating temperatures. [EM-INTERVIEW]
The most critical caveat for the K‑Series is the head gasket — oil quality directly affects the elastomer seals in the multi‑layer steel gasket used on later engines. Using an oil that degrades prematurely or fails to maintain its viscosity can accelerate gasket failure, leading to the well‑documented K‑Series head gasket failure that has plagued many owners. Regular oil changes with the correct spec are the single most effective prevention.
The K‑Series dipstick is located on the front or side of the engine (depending on installation). The oil filler cap is on the cam cover. On Freelander installations, the oil filter is mounted on the front of the engine block — its capacity should be accounted for when measuring. Confirm your exact displacement via the engine number stamp (e.g. 14K4F for 1.4, 16K4F for 1.6, 18K4F for 1.8) using our Engine Number Location guide before assuming the capacity figures apply.
Every Figure SourcedUnverified numbers are flagged, never guessed.
Last Verified August 2026Reviewed on a regular schedule, not left to go stale.
12 Vetted JLR SpecialistsReal workshop insight behind the caveats, not just the spec sheet.
100% IndependentNo sponsors, no manufacturer influence.
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