Get Driving tips Guide for Kia Sportage SUV Second Generation (2004-2010)

Fuel requirements / 5-2

Emission control system / 5-3

Before driving / 5-5

Suggestions for economical operation / 5-6

Special driving conditions / 5-8

Using four-wheel drive / 5-14

Weight of the vehicle / 5-32

Trailer towing / 5-33

Overloading / 5-40

Driving tips

Vehicle load limit / 5-41

Homelink® wireless control system / 5-45

Label information / 5-51

Driving tips

FUEL REQUIREMENTS

Gasoline engine (unleaded)

Gasoline containing alcohol

Vehicle damage or driveability prob-

and methanol

lems may not be covered by the

Your new Kia vehicle is designed to

manufacturer’s warranty if they result

use only unleaded fuel with a mini-

Gasohol, a mixture of gasoline and

from the use of:

mum Octane Rating of 87 Anti-

ethanol (also known as grain alco-

1. Gasohol containing more than

Knock Index (AKI).

hol), and gasoline or gasohol con-

10% ethanol.

taining methanol (also known as

wood alcohol) are being marketed

2. Gasoline or gasohol containing

✽ NOTICE

along with or instead of leaded or

methanol.

NEVER USE LEADED FUEL. The

unleaded gasoline.

3. Leaded fuel or leaded gasohol.

use of leaded fuel is detrimental to

Do not use gasohol containing more

the catalytic converter and will

than 10% ethanol, and do not use

✽ NOTICE

damage the engine control system’s

gasoline or gasohol containing any

oxygen sensor and affect emission

Never use gasohol which contains

methanol. Either of these fuels may

control.

methanol. Discontinue use of any

cause drivability problems and dam-

Never add any fuel system cleaning

gasohol product which impairs dri-

age to the fuel system.

agents to the fuel tank other than

vability.

Discontinue using gasohol of any

what Kia has specified. (Consult an

kind if drivability problems occur.

Authorized Kia Dealer for details.)

5 2

Driving tips

EMISSION CONTROL SYSTEM

The emission control system of your

Engine exhaust gas precau-

• Do not operate the engine in con-

vehicle is covered by a written limited

tions (carbon monoxide)

fined or closed areas (such as

warranty. Please see the warranty

garages) any more than what is

information contained in the

necessary to move the vehicle in or

WARNING - Exhaust

Warranty & Consumer Information

out of the area.

Engine exhaust gases contain

Manual in your vehicle.

• When the vehicle is stopped in an

carbon monoxide (CO). Though

open area for more than a short

colorless and odorless, it is

Vehicle modifications

time with the engine running,

dangerous and could be lethal if

adjust the ventilation system (as

inhaled. Follow the instructions

This vehicle should not be modified.

needed) to draw outside air into the

following to avoid CO poison-

Modification of your Kia could affect

vehicle.

ing.

its performance, safety or durability

• Never sit in a parked or stopped

and may even violate governmental

• Carbon monoxide can be present

vehicle for any extended time with

safety and emissions regulations.

with other exhaust fumes.

the engine running.

In addition, damage or performance

Therefore, if you smell exhaust

• When the engine stalls or fails to

problems resulting from any modifi-

fumes of any kind inside your vehi-

start, excessive attempts to re-

cation may not be covered under

cle, have it inspected and repaired

start the engine may cause dam-

warranty.

immediately. If you ever suspect

age to the emission control sys-

exhaust fumes are coming into

tem.

your vehicle, drive it only with all

the windows fully open. Have your

vehicle checked and repaired

immediately.

5 3

Driving tips

Operating precautions for cat-

• Do not operate the engine at high

alytic converters

idle speed for extended periods (5

minutes or more).

WARNING - Fire

• Do not modify or tamper with any

part of the engine or emission con-

A hot exhaust system can ignite

trol system. All inspections and

flammable items under your

adjustments must be made by an

vehicle. Do not park the vehicle

authorized Kia dealer.

over or near flammable objects,

such as grass, vegetation,

Failure to observe these precautions

paper, leaves, etc.

could result in damage to the catalyt-

ic converter and to your vehicle.

Your vehicle is equipped with a cat-

Additionally, such actions could void

alytic converter emission control

your warranties.

device.

Therefore, the following precautions

must be observed:

• Use only UNLEADED FUEL for

gasoline engine (unleaded).

• Do not operate the vehicle when

there are signs of engine malfunc-

tion, such as misfire or a noticeable

loss of performance.

• Do not misuse or abuse the

engine. Examples of misuse are

coasting with the ignition off and

descending steep grades in gear

with the ignition off.

5 4

Driving tips

BEFORE DRIVING

Before entering vehicle:

Before starting

WARNING - Driving under

• Be sure that all windows, outside

• Close and lock all doors.

the influence of alcohol or

mirror(s), and outside lights are

• Position the seat so that all con-

drugs

clean.

trols are easily reached.

Drinking and driving is danger-

• Check the condition of the tires.

• Adjust the inside and outside

ous. Drunk driving is the num-

• Check under the vehicle for any

rearview mirrors.

ber one contributor to the high-

sign of leaks.

• Be sure that all lights work.

way death toll each year. Even a

• Be sure there are no obstacles

small amount of alcohol will

• Check all gauges.

behind you if you intend to back up.

affect your reflexes, perceptions

• Check the operation of warning

and judgement. Driving while

lights when the ignition switch is

under the influence of drugs is

Necessary inspections

turned to the ON position.

as dangerous or more danger-

• Release the parking brake and

Fluid levels, such as engine oil,

ous than driving drunk.

make sure the brake warning light

engine coolant, brake fluid, and

You are much more likely to

goes out.

washer fluid should be checked on a

have a serious accident if you

regular basis, with the exact interval

For safe operation, be sure you are

drink or take drugs and drive.

depending on the fluid. Further

familiar with your vehicle and its

If you are drinking or taking

details are provided in Section 7,

equipment.

drugs, don’t drive. Do not ride

Maintenance.

with a driver who has been

drinking or taking drugs.

Choose a designated driver or

call a cab.

5 5

Driving tips

SUGGESTIONS FOR ECONOMICAL OPERATION

Your vehicle's fuel economy depends

• Avoid lengthy warm-up idling.

• Maintain a safe distance from other

mainly on your style of driving, where

Once the engine is running

vehicles to avoid sudden stops.

you drive and when you drive.

smoothly,

begin

driving.

This will reduce wear on brake lin-

Remember, engine warm-up may

ings and pads. Driving in such a

Each of these factors affects how

take a little longer on cold days.

way will also save fuel because

many kilometers (miles) you can get

extra fuel is required to accelerate

from liter (a gallon) of fuel. To operate

• Save fuel by accelerating slowly

back to driving speed.

your vehicle as economically as pos-

after stopping.

sible, use the following driving sug-

• Do not carry unnecessary weight

• Keep the engine in tune and follow

gestions to help save money in both

in the vehicle.

the recommended periodic mainte-

fuel and repairs:

nance schedule. This will increase

• Do not rest your foot on the brake

the life of all parts and lower your

pedal while driving. This can cause

operating costs.

needless wear, possible damage

to the brakes, and poor fuel econo-

• Do not use the air conditioner

my.

unnecessarily.

• Improper wheel alignment results

• Slow down when driving on rough

in faster tire wear and lower fuel

roads.

economy.

• For longer tire life and better fuel

• Open windows at high speeds can

economy, always keep the tires

reduce fuel economy.

inflated to the recommended pres-

sures.

• Fuel economy is less in crosswinds

and headwinds. To help offset

some of this loss, slow down when

driving in these conditions.

5 6

Driving tips

Keeping a vehicle in good operating

condition is important both for econ-

omy and safety. Therefore, have an

authorized Kia dealer perform

scheduled inspections and mainte-

nance.

WARNING - Engine off

during motion

Never turn the engine off to

coast down hills or anytime the

vehicle is in motion. The power

steering and power brakes will

not function without the engine

running. Instead, keep the

engine on and downshift to an

appropriate gear for engine

braking effect.

5 7

Driving tips

SPECIAL DRIVING CONDITIONS

Hazardous driving conditions

• If stalled in snow, mud, or sand,

Rocking the vehicle

use second gear. Accelerate slow-

When hazardous driving conditions

If it is necessary to rock the vehicle

ly to avoid spinning the drive

are encountered such as water,

to free it from snow, sand, or mud,

wheels.

snow, ice, mud, sand, or similar haz-

first turn the steering wheel right and

• Use sand, rock salt, tire chains, or

ards, follow these suggestions:

left to clear the area around your

other non-slip material under the

front wheels. Then, shift back and

• Drive cautiously and allow extra

drive wheels to provide traction

forth between 1 (First) and R

distance for braking.

when stalled in ice, snow, or mud.

(Reverse) in vehicles equipped with

• Avoid sudden movements in brak-

a manual transaxle or R (Reverse)

ing or steering.

and any forward gear in vehicles

WARNING - Downshifting

• When braking with non-ABS

equipped with an automatic

Downshifting with an automatic

brakes pump the brake pedal with

transaxle. Do not race the engine,

transaxle, while driving on slip-

a light up-and-down motion until

and spin the wheels as little as pos-

pery surfaces can cause an

the vehicle is stopped.

sible. If you are still stuck after a few

accident. The sudden change in

tries, have the vehicle pulled out by a

tire speed could cause the tires

CAUTION - ABS

tow vehicle to avoid engine overheat-

to skid. Be careful when down-

ing and possible damage to the

Do not pump the brake pedal on

shifting on slippery surfaces.

transaxle.

a vehicle equipped with ABS.

✽ NOTICE

Prolonged rocking may cause engine

over-heating, transaxle damage or

failure, and tire damage.

5 8

Driving tips

Driving at night

• Keep your headlights clean and

WARNING - Spinning tires

properly aimed on vehicles not

Because night driving presents more

equipped with the automatic head-

Do not spin the wheels, espe-

hazards than driving in the daylight,

light aiming feature. Dirty or

cially at speeds more than 56

here are some important tips to

improperly aimed headlights will

km/h (35 mph). Spinning the

remember:

make it much more difficult to see

wheels at high speeds when the

• Slow down and keep more dis-

at night.

vehicle is stationary could

tance between you and other vehi-

cause a tire to overheat, explode

• Avoid staring directly at the head-

cles, as it may be more difficult to

and injure bystanders.

lights of oncoming vehicles. You

see at night, especially in areas

could be temporarily blinded, and it

where there may not be any street

will take several seconds for your

lights.

eyes to readjust to the darkness.

• Adjust your mirrors to reduce the

glare from other driver's head-

lights.

5 9

Driving tips

Driving in the rain

• If your tires are not in good condi-

Winter driving

tion, making a quick stop on wet

Rain and wet roads can make driving

• We recommend that you carry

pavement can cause a skid and

dangerous, especially if you’re not

emergency equipment, including

possibly lead to an accident. Be

prepared for the slick pavement.

tire chains, a window scraper,

sure your tires are in good shape.

Here are a few things to consider

windshield de-icer, a bag of sand

• Turn on your headlights to make it

when driving in the rain:

or salt, flares, a small shovel and

easier for others to see you.

jumper cables.

• A heavy rainfall will make it harder

• Driving too fast through large pud-

to see and will increase the dis-

• Make sure you have sufficient eth-

dles can affect your brakes. If you

tance needed to stop your vehicle,

ylene-glycol coolant in the radiator.

must go through puddles, try to

so slow down.

• Check the battery condition and

drive through them slowly.

• Keep your windshield wiping

cables. Cold temperatures reduce

• If you believe you may have gotten

equipment in good shape. Replace

the capacity of any battery, so it

your brakes wet, apply them lightly

your windshield wiper blades when

must be in excellent condition to

while driving until normal braking

they show signs of streaking or

provide enough winter starting

operation returns.

missing areas on the windshield.

power.

• Make sure the engine oil viscosity

is suitable for cold weather.

• Check the ignition system for loose

connections and damage.

5 10

Driving tips

• Use antifreeze-formulated wind-

Snow tires

WARNING - Snow tire

shield washer fluid. (Do not use

If you mount snow tires on your Kia,

engine coolant antifreeze.)

size

make sure they are radial tires of the

• Do not use the parking brake if it

same size and load range as the

Snow tires should be equivalent

might freeze. When parking, shift

original tires. Mount snow tires on all

in size and type to the vehicle's

to 1 (First) or R (Reverse) with a

four wheels to balance your vehicle’s

standard tires. Otherwise, the

manual transaxle or P (Park) with

handling in all weather conditions.

safety and handling of your

an automatic transaxle and block

Keep in mind that the traction provid-

vehicle may be adversely affect-

the rear wheels.

ed by snow tires on dry roads may

ed.

not be as high as your vehicle's orig-

inal equipment tires. You should drive

Do not install studded tires without

cautiously even when the roads are

first checking local, state and munic-

clear. Check with the tire dealer for

ipal regulations for possible restric-

maximum speed recommendations.

tions against their use.

5 11

Driving tips

Driving in flooded areas

Reducing the risk of a rollover

Rollover warning label

Avoid driving through flooded areas

This multi-purpose passenger vehi-

To remind you of the danger of the

cle is defined as a Sports Utility

unless you are sure the water is no

rollover, a rollover warning label

Vehicle (SUV). SUV’s have higher

higher than the bottom of the wheel

which is now required by the Federal

ground clearance and a narrower

hub. Drive through any water slowly.

Safety regulations is adhered to the

track to make them capable of per-

Allow adequate stopping distance

driver’s sunvisor.

forming in a wide variety of off-road

because brake performance may be

applications. Specific design charac-

affected.

teristics give them a higher center of

After driving through water, dry the

gravity than ordinary cars. An advan-

brakes by gently applying them sev-

tage of the higher ground clearance

eral times while the vehicle is moving

is a better view of the road, which

slowly.

allows you to anticipate problems.

They are not designed for cornering

at the same speeds as conventional

passenger drive vehicles, any more

than low-slung sports cars are

designed to perform satisfactorily in

off-road conditions. Due to this risk,

driver and passengers are strongly

recommended to buckle their seat-

belts. In a rollover crash, an unbelt-

ed person is more likely to die than a

person wearing a seatbelt. There

are steps that a driver can make to

reduce the risk of a rollover. If at all

possible, avoid sharp turns or abrupt

maneuvers, do not load your roof

rack with heavy cargo, and never

modify your vehicle in any way.

5 12

Driving tips

WARNING - Rollover

As with other Sports Utility

Vehicle (SUV), failure to operate

this vehicle correctly may result

in loss of control, an accident or

vehicle rollover.

• Specific design characteris-

tics (higher ground clearance,

narrower track, etc.) give this

vehicle a higher center of

gravity than ordinary cars.

1KMN5513

To remind you of the danger of the

• A SUV is not designed for cor-

rollover, the rollover warning label is

nering at the same speeds as

adhered to the driver’s sunvisor. If

conventional vehicles.

you close the driver’s sunvisor, you

• Avoid sharp turns or abrupt

can see the rollover warning label

maneuvers.

which is located at the side of the air

• In a rollover crash, an unbelt-

bag warning label.

ed person is significantly

more likely to die than a per-

son wearing a safety belt.

Make sure everyone in the

vehicle is properly buckled up.

5 13

Driving tips

USING FOUR-WHEEL DRIVE

Driving on snow- or Ice-cov-

Driving in sand or mud (“4WD

WARNING - Traction

ered roads (“4WD LOCK” for

LOCK” for full-time 4WD opera-

full-time 4WD operation)

tion)

Make sure that no one stands in

front of or behind the tires when

• Use snow tires. See “Tires” in this

• Avoid sudden braking, acceleration

materials are placed under the

section for more information.

or steering. These actions can

tires to get more traction. The

cause your vehicle to get stuck in

• Keep an adequate distance

tires may cause loose materials

the sand or mud.

between yourself and other vehi-

to fly out from under the vehicle,

cles.

• Drive at low speeds whenever pos-

potentially causing serious bod-

sible.

• Avoid sudden braking, acceleration

ily injury or death.

or steering. These actions can

• You may need to get out of your

cause your vehicle to lose traction.

vehicle at times to check road con-

✽ NOTICE

ditions.

Prolonged rocking may cause engine

• If you get stuck in the sand or mud,

damage, overheating, transaxle dif-

try placing stones, wood or other

ferential or transfer case damage or

similar materials under the tires to

failure and tire damage.

get traction, or move forward and

backward repeatedly to get

unstuck.

5 14

Driving tips

Driving on a hill (“4WD LOCK”

Crossing a ditch (“4WD LOCK”

Tight corner brake effect

for full-time 4WD operation)

CAUTION - 4WD

• Use low gear when going uphill or

• Avoid driving through ditches if

When turning sharply on a

downhill and avoid sudden braking.

possible, especially if there is

paved road at low speed while

water in the ditch. Your vehicle may

• Do not shift gears or use your

in four-wheel drive, steering

stall if the electrical system gets

clutch when going downhill. Do not

control will be difficult.

wet. If you must cross a ditch,

coast downhill in Neutral.

select 4WD LOCK mode.

This is called tight corner brake

• Avoid driving where the water level

effect. Tight corner brake effect is a

is higher than the bottom of the

unique characteristic of four-wheel

wheel hub. If the water level rises

drive vehicles caused by the differ-

above this mark, your vehicle will

ence in tire rotation at the four

need to be serviced.

wheels and the zero-degree align-

• Tap lightly on the brake pedal dur-

ment of the front wheels and sus-

ing and after driving through water.

pension.

This will help keep the brakes dry

Sharp turns at low speeds should be

and in proper working order.

carried out with caution.

• Do not shift gears while crossing a

ditch.

5 15

Driving tips

Off-road driving with your

Before you go off-roading

Loading your vehicle for off-road

four-wheel drive vehicle

driving

There are some things to do before

you leave the paved roads. Be sure

There are some important items to

Off-road driving can be great fun. But

to have all necessary maintenance

remember about how to properly

it has definite hazards. The greatest

and service work done beforehand.

load your vehicle.

of these is the terrain itself.

Be sure to read all the information

• The heaviest things should be in

“Off-roading” means you’ve left the

about your four-wheel drive vehicle

the cargo area and forward of your

paved road system behind. Traffic

in this manual. Is there enough fuel?

rear axle. Place heavier items as

lanes are not marked. Curves are not

Is the spare tire fully inflated? Are the

far forward as you can.

banked.

fluid levels at the proper levels? What

• Be sure the load is properly

There are no carefully engineered

are the local laws that apply to off-

secured, so driving over off-road

road signs to warn you of dangerous

roading where you’ll be driving? If

terrain doesn’t shift your load or

conditions or to advise you of a safe

you don’t know, you should check

throw items toward the driver or

speed. You have to assess the envi-

with law enforcement people in the

passengers.

ronment yourself. Surfaces can be

area. Will you be on someone’s pri-

slippery, rough, uphill or downhill.

vate land? If so, be sure to get the

necessary permission.

Off-road driving involves learning

new skills. That’s why it’s important

that you read and understand this

section. You’ll find useful driving

information and suggestions. These

will help make your off-road driving

safer and more enjoyable.

5 16

Driving tips

Traveling to remote areas

(Continued)

WARNING - Cargo

It makes sense to plan your trip,

• Cargo should not be carried

• Cargo piled close to the height

especially when going to a remote

on the roof without a proper

of (or higher than) the seat

area. Know the terrain and plan your

roof rack installed. The roof

backs can be thrown forward

route. You are much less likely to

rack will hold a maximum of

during a sudden stop or on

encounter unwanted surprises. Get

45 kg (100 lbs.). Heavy loads

downhill slopes. You or your

accurate maps of trails.

in a roof rack raise the vehi-

passengers could be severely

It’s also a good idea to travel with at

cle’s center of gravity, making

injured. Keep cargo below the

least one other vehicle. If something

it more likely to roll over. You

top of the seat backs and, if

happens to one of them, the other

can be seriously or fatally

possible, do not pile separate

can quickly help.

injured if the vehicle rolls

items.

over. Do not load cargo on the

• Unsecured cargo in the cargo

roof while driving off-road, if

area can be tossed about

at all possible. Put heavy

when driving on the highways

loads inside the cargo area,

or over rough terrain. You or

not on the roof or in a roof

your passengers can be

rack. Keep cargo in the cargo

struck by flying objects and

area as far forward and low as

severely injured. Secure the

possible.

cargo properly.

(Continued)

5 17

Driving tips

Getting familiar with off-road driv-

Controlling your vehicle is the key to

WARNING - Off road driv-

ing

successful off-road driving. One of

the best ways to control your vehicle

ing

It’s necessary for you to practice in

is to control your speed. Here are

When you’re driving off-road,

an area that’s safe and close to

some things to keep in mind when

bouncing and quick changes in

home before you begin serious off-

traveling at higher speeds:

direction can easily throw you

road driving. Off-road driving

• You approach things faster and you

out of position in your seat. This

requires new and different driving

have less time to scan the terrain

could cause you to lose control

skills.

for obstacles.

of the vehicle and crash.

You need to tune your senses to dif-

Whether you are driving on or

• You have less time to react.

ferent kinds of signals. For example,

off the road, you and your pas-

constantly sweep the terrain with

• You have much more vehicle

sengers should always wear

your eyes looking for unexpected

bounce when you drive over obsta-

safety belts.

obstacles. Listen for unusual tire,

cles, giving you less vehicle con-

gear, or engine sounds. Feel and

trol.

respond to the vibrations of the vehi-

• You’ll need more distance for brak-

cle with your hands, feet, and body

ing, especially since you’re on an

while still carefully controlling your

unpaved surface. Such terrain will

vehicle. You’ll also need to adjust

always be more “slippery” than a

your expectations and greatly lower

paved road.

the number of miles you expect to

cover in an hour or a day.

5 18

Driving tips

Scanning the terrain

Surface obstacles

When you drive over bumps, rocks,

or other obstacles, your wheels can

Off-road driving can take you over

Unseen or hidden obstacles can be

leave the ground. If this happens,

many different kinds of terrain. You

hazardous. A rock, log, hole, rut, or

even with one or two wheels, you

need to be familiar with the terrain

bump can startle you if you’re not

can’t control the vehicle as well or

and its many different features. Here

prepared. Often these obstacles are

perhaps at all. Because you will be

are some things to consider.

hidden by grass, bushes, snow or

on an unpaved surface, it’s especial-

even the rise and fall of the terrain

ly important to avoid sudden acceler-

itself. Here are some things to con-

Surface conditions

ation, sudden turns, or sudden brak-

stantly evaluate:

Off-roading can take you over hard-

ing. Any of these actions could cause

• Is the path ahead clear?

packed dirt, gravel, rocks, grass,

the center of gravity of the vehicle to

sand, mud, snow or ice. Each of

• Will the surface texture change

shift and destabilize the vehicle,

these surfaces affects the steering,

ahead?

leading to a collision or rollover acci-

acceleration, and braking of your

dent.

• Does the path take you uphill or

vehicle in different ways.

downhill?

Off-road driving requires a different

Depending upon the kind of surface

kind of alertness from driving on

• Might you have to stop suddenly or

you are on, you may experience slip-

paved roads and highways. There

change direction quickly?

ping, sliding, wheel spinning,

are no road signs, posted speed lim-

When you drive over obstacles or

delayed acceleration, poor traction,

its or signal lights. You have to use

rough terrain, it is critical that you

and longer braking distances.

your own judgment about what is

keep a firm grip on the steering

safe and what isn’t. Bad judgment in

wheel. Ruts, troughs, or other sur-

this uncontrolled environment can be

face features can force the wheel out

fatal.

of your hands if you’re not prepared.

5 19

Driving tips

Driving on off-road hills

WARNING - Drinking &

WARNING - Driving on

Off-road driving often takes you up,

driving

hills

down, or across a hill. Driving safely

Drinking and driving, or drug

Many hills are simply too steep

on hills requires excellent judgment

use and driving can be very

for any vehicle. If you drive up

and an understanding of what your

dangerous on any road. This

them, you will stall. If you drive

vehicle can and can’t do. There are

certainly remains true for off-

down them, you can’t control

some hills that simply should not be

road driving. At the very time

your speed. In either case, you

driven.

you need special alertness and

could flip over. If you drive

driving skills, your reflexes, per-

across them, you will roll over.

ceptions and judgement can be

You could be seriously or fatally

affected by even a small amount

injured. If you have any doubt

of alcohol or drugs. You could

about the steepness, don’t drive

have a serious - or even fatal -

up or down the hill, even if it

accident if you drink or take

means that you have to turn

drugs and drive or ride with a

around and find another route.

driver who has been drinking or

Re-tracking is a normal part of

taking drugs.

safe off-roading.

5 20

Driving tips

Approaching a hill

Here are some other things to con-

• Is the hill simply too rough? Steep

sider as you approach a hill:

hills often have ruts, gullies,

When you approach a hill, you need

troughs, and exposed rocks

to decide if it’s one of those hills

• Is there a constant incline, or does

because they are more susceptible

that’s just too steep to climb,

the hill get sharply steeper in

to the effects of erosion.

descend, or cross. Steepness can be

places?

difficult to judge. On a very small hill,

• How have weather conditions

• Is there good traction on the hill-

for example, there may be a smooth,

affected the terrain? Is there likely

side, or will the surface cause tire

constant incline with only a small

to be mud, snow or ice on the hill?

slipping?

change in elevation where you can

• What time of day is it? Are temper-

• Is there a straight path up or down

easily see all the way to the top. On

atures dropping so that wet sur-

the hill so you won’t have to make

a large hill, the incline may get steep-

faces will start to freeze?

turning maneuvers?

er as you near the top, but you may

• Are there obstructions on the hill

not see this because the crest of the

that can block your path (boulders,

hill is hidden by bushes, grass, or

trees, logs or ruts)?

shrubs.

• What’s beyond the hill? Is there a

cliff, an embankment, a drop-off, or

a fence? Get out of the vehicle and

walk the hill if you are unsure. It’s

the smart way to find out.

5 21

Driving tips

Driving uphill

WARNING - Driving

WARNING - Driving over

Once you decide you can safely

across hills

hills

drive up the hill, you need to take

some special steps.

Turning or driving across steep

Driving to the top (crest) of a hill

hills can be dangerous. You

at full speed can cause an acci-

• Use a low gear and get a firm grip

could lose traction, slide side-

dent and result in serious or

on the steering wheel.

ways, or just reach an area too

fatal injury. There could be a

• Get a smooth start up the hill and

steep to traverse. In any case, it

drop-off, embankment, cliff,

try to maintain your speed. Don’t

could cause you to roll over. You

another vehicle or people sitting

use more power than you need,

could be seriously or fatally

on the ground. As you near the

because you don’t want your

injured. When driving up hills,

top of a hill, slow down and stay

wheels to start spinning or sliding.

always try to go as straight up

alert.

• Try to drive straight up the hill, if at

as possible.

all possible. If the path twists and

turns, you may have to find anoth-

• Slow down as you approach the

er route.

top of the hill.

• Attach a flag to the vehicle to make

you more visible to approaching

traffic on trails or hills.

• Sound the horn as you approach

the top of the hill to let opposing

traffic know you’re there.

• Use your headlights even during

the day. They make you more visi-

ble to other drivers.

5 22

Driving tips

Stalling while driving uphill

• If your engine has stopped run-

Here are some things you must not

ning, you’ll need to restart it. With

do if you stall, or are about to stall,

What should I do if my vehicle stalls,

the brake pedal depressed and the

when going up a hill.

or is about to stall, and I can’t make

parking brake still applied, shift a

it up the hill?

• Never attempt to prevent a stall by

manual transaxle to N (Neutral), or

depressing the clutch or shifting to

If your vehicle stalls, or is about to

an automatic transaxle to P (Park)

N (Neutral) to “rev-up” the engine

stall while driving uphill, there are

and restart the engine. Then, shift

and regain forward momentum.

some things you should do, and

to reverse, release the parking

This won’t work. Your vehicle will

there are some things you must not

brake, and slowly back down the

roll backwards very quickly and

do. First, here’s what you should do:

hill in reverse.

you could go out of control or roll

• Push the brake pedal to stop the

• As you are backing down the hill,

over.

vehicle and keep it from rolling

put your left hand on the steering

Instead, apply the brake to stop the

backwards. Also, apply the parking

wheel at the 12 o’clock position.

vehicle. Then apply the parking

brake.

This way, you’ll be able to tell if

brake. Shift into reverse, release the

• If your engine is still running, shift

your wheels are straight or turned

parking brake, and slowly back

the transaxle into reverse, release

to the left or right as you back

down.

the parking brake, and slowly back

down.

down the hill in reverse.

5 23

Driving tips

Stalled on a steep uphill

CAUTION - Stalling

WARNING - Exiting vehicle

If your vehicle stalls and you can’t

Never attempt to turn around if

Getting out on the downhill

back down the hill, try this: Set the

you are about to stall when

(low) side of a vehicle stopped

parking brake, put your transaxle in 1

going up a hill. If the hill is steep

across an incline is dangerous.

(First) gear or P (Park), and turn the

enough to stall your vehicle, it’s

If the vehicle rolls over, you

engine off. Leave the vehicle and get

steep enough to cause you to

could be crushed or fatally

some help. If your vehicle is at an

roll over if you turn around. If

injured. Always get out on the

angle to the slope of the hill, exit the

you can’t make it up, you must

uphill (high) side of the vehicle

vehicle on the uphill side and stay

back down the hill.

and stay well clear of the

clear of the path the vehicle would

rollover path.

take if it rolled downhill. Leave it in 1

(First) gear for manual transaxle or P

(Park) for automatic transaxle.

5 24

Driving tips

Driving downhill

Once you have decided that you can

WARNING - Leaving vehi-

go down a hill safely, try to keep your

Going downhill can be considerably

cle

vehicle headed straight down, and

more dangerous than driving uphill.

use a low gear. This way, engine

If you are going to leave your

When off-roading takes you downhill,

braking can help your brakes so they

vehicle, set the parking brake

you’ll want to consider many of the

won’t have to do all the work.

and shift a manual transaxle to

same things you thought about

Descend slowly, keeping your vehi-

1(First),

automatic

before you went uphill. As a brief

cle under control at all times.

transaxle to P (Park).

reminder, those include:

• How steep is the downhill? Will I be

able to maintain vehicle control?

• What’s the surface like? Smooth?

Rough? Slippery? Hard-packed

dirt? Gravel?

• Are there hidden surface obsta-

cles? Ruts? Logs? Boulders?

• What’s at the bottom of the hill? Is

there a hidden creek bank or even

a river bottom with large rocks?

• Have changes in the weather con-

ditions and their effect on the ter-

rain since you went uphill made

your task more difficult?

5 25

Driving tips

Avoid turns that take you across the

If your wheels lock up during down-

CAUTION - Downhill

incline of the hill. A hill that’s not too

hill braking, you may feel the vehicle

Before beginning to go down-

steep to drive down may be too

starting to slide sideways. To regain

hill, it is critical that you ensure

steep to drive across. You could roll

your direction, just ease off the

that no cargo can shift forward

over if you don’t drive straight down.

brakes and steer to keep the front of

while you are heading downhill.

the vehicle pointing straight downhill.

Never go downhill with the clutch

Such shifting could either

pedal depressed. This is called “free-

endanger you and your occu-

wheeling.” Your brakes will have to do

pants, or interfere with your

all the work and could overheat and

ability to control the vehicle.

fade.

CAUTION - Wheel locking

WARNING - Braking

Avoid braking so hard that you

Heavy braking when going

lock the wheels when going

down a hill can cause your

downhill. If your front wheels

brakes to overheat and fade.

are locked, you can’t steer your

This could cause loss of control

vehicle.

and a serious accident. Apply

the

brakes

lightly

when

descending a hill and use a low

gear to keep vehicle speed

under control.

5 26

Driving tips

Stalling downhill

Driving across an incline

• Surface conditions can be a prob-

lem when you drive across a hill.

Stalling is much more likely to hap-

Sooner or later, an off-road trail will

Loose gravel, muddy spots, or

pen going uphill. But if it happens

probably go across the incline of a

even wet grass can cause your

going downhill, here’s what to do.

hill. If this happens, you have to

tires to slip sideways. If the vehicle

decide whether or not to try to drive

• Stop your vehicle by applying the

slips sideways, it can hit something

across the incline. Here are some

brakes. Then apply the parking

that will tip it (a rock, a rut, etc.) and

things to consider:

brake.

cause it to roll over.

• A hill that can be driven straight up

• Move the shift lever to P (Park) in

• Hidden obstacles can make the

or down may be too steep to drive

automatic transaxle or shift to N

steepness of the incline even

across. When you go straight up or

(Neutral) in manual transaxle and,

worse. If you drive across a rock

down a hill, the length of the wheel

while still braking, restart the

with the uphill wheels, or if the

base (the distance from the front

engine.

downhill wheels drop into a rut or

wheels to the rear wheels) reduces

• Shift back to a low gear, release

depression, your vehicle can tilt

the likelihood the vehicle will tum-

the parking brake, and drive

even more.

ble end over end. But when you

straight down.

drive across an incline, the much

For reasons like these, you need to

• If the engine won’t start, get out

narrower track width (the distance

decide carefully whether or not to try

and seek help. Exit on the uphill

between the left and right wheels)

to drive across an incline. Just

side of the vehicle and stay clear of

may not prevent the vehicle from

because the trail goes across the

the path the vehicle would take if it

tilting and rolling over. Also, driving

incline doesn’t mean you have to

rolled downhill.

across an incline puts more weight

drive it.

on the downhill wheels. This could

cause a downhill slide or a rollover.

5 27

Driving tips

If your vehicle slides downhill

Stalling while crossing an incline

WARNING - Roll over

If you feel your vehicle starting to

If your vehicle stalls when you’re

Driving across an incline that’s

slide sideways, turn downhill immedi-

crossing an incline, be sure you (and

too steep will make your vehicle

ately. This should help straighten out

your passengers) get out on the

roll over. You could be seriously

the vehicle and prevent the side slip-

uphill side, even if that door is harder

or fatally injured. If you have any

ping. However, a much better way to

to open. If you get out on the down-

doubt about the steepness of

prevent this is to get out and “walk

hill side and the vehicle starts to roll

the incline, don’t drive across it.

the course” first so you know what

over, you’ll be in its path.

Find another route instead.

the surface is like before you drive it.

If you have to walk down the slope,

stay out of the path the vehicle will

take if it does roll over.

5 28

Driving tips

Driving in mud, sand, snow, or

✽ NOTICE

WARNING - Exiting vehi-

ice

• In case of loss of traction in mud,

cle

loose soil, or sand, turn the steer-

When you drive in mud, sand, snow,

Getting out on the downhill

ing wheel rapidly from side-to-

or ice, your wheels won’t get good

(low) side of a vehicle stopped

side. This can help generate addi-

traction. You can’t accelerate as

across an incline is dangerous.

tional traction.

quickly, turning is more difficult, and

If the vehicle rolls over, you

• Do not gun the engine. This will

you’ll need longer braking distances.

could be crushed or fatally

cause the tires to spin and dig

It’s best to use a low gear when

injured. Always get out on the

down, not forward, and could

you’re in mud, the deeper the mud,

uphill (high) side of the vehicle

bury the vehicle to the frame.

the lower the gear. In extremely deep

and stay well clear of the

Smooth, easy power is better than

mud, the idea is to keep your vehicle

rollover path.

too much power.

moving so you don’t get stuck.

When you drive on sand, you’ll

sense a change in wheel traction.

But it will depend upon how loosely

packed the sand is. On loosely

packed sand (as on beaches or sand

dunes) your tires will tend to sink into

the sand. This has an effect on steer-

ing, accelerating, and braking. You

may want to reduce the air pressure

in your tires slightly when driving on

sand. This will improve traction.

Remember to re-inflate them the first

chance that you have after you leave

the loosely packed sand.

5 29

Driving tips

Hard-packed snow and ice offer the

Driving in water

If you have driven through water that

worst tire traction. On these surfaces,

was deep enough to cover your

Light rain causes no special off-road

it’s very easy to lose control. On wet

wheel bearing hubs, it may be a

driving problems. However, heavy

ice, for example, the traction is so

good idea to have an Authorized Kia

rain can cause flash flooding, and

poor that you will even have difficulty

dealer or other competent service

flood waters demand extreme cau-

accelerating. And if you do get mov-

center repack your front wheel bear-

tion.

ing, poor steering and difficult brak-

ings and examine your rear-end fluid

Find out how deep the water is

ing can easily cause you to slide out

for evidence of water.

before you drive through it. If it’s

of control.

deep enough to cover your wheel

bearing hubs, axles, or exhaust pipe,

WARNING - Frozen sur-

don’t try it, You probably won’t get

faces

through. Also, water that deep can

Driving on frozen lakes, ponds

damage your axle and other vehicle

or rivers can be dangerous.

parts.

Underwater springs, currents

If the water isn’t too deep, then drive

under the ice, or sudden thaws

through slowly. At fast speeds, water

can weaken the ice. Your vehicle

can splash on your ignition system

could fall through the ice and

and your vehicle can stall. Stalling

you and your passengers could

can also occur if your tailpipe goes

drown. Drive your vehicle on

underwater. As long as your tailpipe

safe surfaces only.

is underwater, you will not be able to

start your engine. When you go

through water, remember that it may

take you longer to stop when your

brakes are wet.

5 30

Driving tips

After off-road driving

WARNING - Water

Remove any brush or debris that has

Driving through rushing water

collected on the underbody, chassis

can be dangerous. Deep water

or under the hood. These accumula-

can sweep your vehicle down-

tions can be a fire hazard.

stream and you and your pas-

After driving in mud or sand, clean

sengers could drown. If it’s only

and check the brake linings.

inches deep, it can still wash

Accumulation of mud or sand can

away the ground from under

cause glazing and uneven braking.

your tires, and you could lose

Check the body structure, steering,

traction and roll the vehicle.

suspension, wheels, tires, and

Never drive through rushing

exhaust system for damage. Also,

water.

check the fuel lines and cooling sys-

tem for any leakage. Your vehicle will

also require more frequent service

due to off-road use.

5 31

Driving tips

WEIGHT OF THE VEHICLE

This section will guide you in the

Cargo weight

GVW (Gross vehicle weight)

proper loading of your vehicle and/or

This figure includes all weight added

This is the Base Curb Weight plus

trailer, to keep your loaded vehicle

to the Base Curb Weight, including

actual Cargo Weight plus passen-

weight within its design rating capa-

cargo and optional equipment. When

gers.

bility, with or without a trailer.

towing, trailer tongue load or king pin

Properly loading your vehicle will

weight also is part of the Cargo

provide maximum return of the vehi-

GVWR (Gross vehicle weight

Weight.

cle design performance. Before load-

rating)

ing your vehicle, familiarize yourself

This is the maximum allowable weight

with the following terms for determin-

GAW (Gross axle weight)

of the fully loaded vehicle (including

ing your vehicle's weight ratings, with

This is the total weight placed on

all options, equipment, passengers

or without a trailer, from the vehicle's

each axle (front and rear) - including

and cargo). The GVWR is shown on

Specifications and the Vehicle

vehicle curb weight and all payload.

the Vehicle Certification Label located

Certification Label:

on the driver's door pillar.

GAWR (Gross axle weight rating)

Base curb weight

This is the maximum allowable

This is the weight of the vehicle

weight that can be carried by a single

including a full tank of fuel and all

axle (front or rear). These numbers

standard equipment. It does not

are shown on the Vehicle

include passengers, cargo, or option-

Certification Label. The total load on

al equipment.

each axle must never exceed its

GAWR.

Vehicle curb weight

This is the weight of your new vehicle

when you picked it up from your deal-

er plus any aftermarket equipment.

5 32

Driving tips

TRAILER TOWING

Item

2.0L Engine

2.7L Engine

WARNING - Towing a

Maximum trailer Without trailer brakes

454 (1000)

trailer

weight kg (lbs.) With trailer brakes

680 (1500)

907 (2000)

If you don't use the correct

equipment and drive properly,

Maximum permissible static vertical

you can lose control when you

68 (150)

91 (200)

load on the coupling device

kg (lbs.)

pull a trailer. For example, if the

trailer is too heavy, the brakes

may not work well - or even at

✽ NOTICE

This section contains many time-

all. You and your passengers

tested, important trailering tips and

Pulling a trailer improperly can

could be seriously or fatally

safety rules. Many of these are

damage your vehicle and result in

injured. Pull a trailer only if you

important for your safety and that of

costly repairs not covered by your

have followed all the steps in

your passengers. Please read this

warranty. To pull a trailer correctly,

this section.

section carefully before you pull a

follow the advice in this section.

trailer.

Your vehicle can tow a trailer. To

identify what the vehicle trailering

Load-pulling components such as

capacity is for your vehicle, you

the engine, transaxle, wheel assem-

should read the information in

blies, and tires are forced to work

“Weight of the Trailer” that appears

harder against the load of the added

later in this section.

weight. The engine is required to

operate at relatively higher speeds

and under greater loads. This addi-

Remember that trailering is different

tional burden generates extra heat.

than just driving your vehicle by itself.

The trailer also adds considerably to

Trailering means changes in han-

wind resistance, increasing the

dling, durability, and fuel economy.

pulling requirements.

Successful, safe trailering requires

correct equipment, and it has to be

used properly.

5 33

Driving tips

If you do decide to pull a trailer

• Always drive at a safe speed (less

Weight of the trailer

than 100 km/h) commensurate

How heavy can a trailer safely be? It

Here are some important points if

with road conditions.

should never weigh more than the

you decide to pull a trailer:

• On a long uphill grade, do not

maximum trailer weight with trailer

• State, provincial, county and

exceed 70 km/h (45 mph) or the

brakes. But even that can be too

municipal government have vary-

posted towing speed limit,

heavy.

ing trailering laws. Make sure your

whichever is lower.

It depends on how you plan to use

hitch, mirrors, lights and wiring

• The important considerations have

your trailer. For example, speed, alti-

arrangements are legal, not only

to do with weight:

tude, road grades, outside tempera-

where you live, but also where

ture and how much your vehicle is

you’ll be driving. A good source for

used to pull a trailer are all important.

this information is provincial or

The ideal trailer weight can also

local law enforcement agencies.

depend on any special equipment

• Consider using a sway control. You

that you have on your vehicle.

can ask a hitch dealer about sway

control.

• After your odometer indicates 800

km (500 miles) or more, you can

tow a trailer. For the first 800 km

(500 miles) that you tow a trailer,

don’t drive over 80 km/h (50 mph)

and don’t make starts at full throt-

tle. This helps your engine and

other parts of your vehicle “wear” in

at the heavier loads.

5 34

Driving tips

Weight of the trailer tongue

Hitches

WARNING - Trailer

The tongue load of any trailer is an

It's important to have the correct

• Never load a trailer with more

important weight to measure

hitch equipment. Crosswinds, large

weight in the rear than in the

because it affects the total gross

trucks going by, and rough roads are

front. The front should be

vehicle weight (GVW) of your vehi-

a few reasons why you’ll need the

loaded with approximately

cle. This weight includes the curb

right hitch. Here are some rules to

60% of the total trailer load;

weight of the vehicle, any cargo you

follow:

the rear should be loaded with

may carry in it, and the people who

• Will you have to make any holes in

approximately 40% of the total

will be riding in the vehicle. And if you

the body of your vehicle when you

trailer load.

will tow a trailer, you must add the

install a trailer hitch? If you do, then

tongue load to the GVW because

• Never exceed the maximum

be sure to seal the holes later

your vehicle will also be carrying that

weight limits of the trailer or

when you remove the hitch.

weight.

trailer towing equipment.

If you don’t seal them, deadly car-

Improper loading can result in

The trailer tongue should weigh a

bon monoxide (CO) from your

damage to your vehicle and/or

maximum of 10% of the total loaded

exhaust can get into your vehicle,

personal

injury.

Check

trailer weight. After you've loaded

as well as dirt and water.

weights and loading at a com-

your trailer, weigh the trailer and then

• The bumpers on your vehicle are

mercial scale or highway

the tongue, separately, to see if the

not intended for hitches. Do not

patrol office equipped with

weights are proper. If they aren’t, you

attach rental hitches or other

scales.

may be able to correct them simply

bumper-type hitches to them. Use

by moving some items around in the

• An improperly loaded trailer

only a frame-mounted hitch that

trailer.

can cause loss of vehicle con-

does not attach to the bumper.

trol.

5 35

Driving tips

Safety chains

Trailer brakes

Driving with a trailer

You should always attach chains

If your trailer weighs more than the

Towing a trailer requires a certain

between your vehicle and your trail-

maximum trailer weight without trail-

amount of experience. Before setting

er. Cross the safety chains under the

er brakes loaded, then it needs its

out for the open road, you must get

tongue of the trailer so that the

own brakes and they must be ade-

to know your trailer. Acquaint your-

tongue will not drop to the road if it

quate. Be sure to read and follow the

self with the feel of handling and

becomes separated from the hitch.

instructions for the trailer brakes so

braking with the added weight of the

you’ll be able to install, adjust and

trailer. And always keep in mind that

Instructions about safety chains may

maintain them properly.

the vehicle you are driving is now a

be provided by the hitch manufactur-

good deal longer and not nearly so

er or by the trailer manufacturer.

• Don’t tap into your vehicle's brake

responsive as your vehicle is by

Follow the manufacturer’s recom-

system.

itself.

mendation for attaching safety

chains. Always leave just enough

Before you start, check the trailer

WARNING - Trailer brakes

slack so you can turn with your trail-

hitch and platform, safety chains,

er. And, never allow safety chains to

Do not use a trailer with its own

electrical connector(s), lights, tires

drag on the ground.

brakes unless you are absolute-

and mirror adjustment. If the trailer

ly certain that you have properly

has electric brakes, start your vehicle

set up the brake system. This is

and trailer moving and then apply the

not a task for amateurs. Use an

trailer brake controller by hand to be

experienced, competent trailer

sure the brakes are working. This lets

shop for this work.

you check your electrical connection

at the same time.

During your trip, check occasionally

to be sure that the load is secure,

and that the lights and any trailer

brakes are still working.

5 36

Driving tips

Following distance

Backing up

Turn signals when towing a trailer

Stay at least twice as far behind the

Hold the bottom of the steering

When you tow a trailer, your vehicle

vehicle ahead as you would when

wheel with one hand. Then, to move

has to have a different turn signal

driving your vehicle without a trailer.

the trailer to the left, just move your

flasher and extra wiring. The green

This can help you avoid situations

hand to the left. To move the trailer to

arrows on your instrument panel will

that require heavy braking and sud-

the right, move your hand to the

flash whenever you signal a turn or

den turns.

right. Always back up slowly and, if

lane change. Properly connected,

possible, have someone guide you.

the trailer lights will also flash to alert

other drivers you’re about to turn,

Passing

change lanes, or stop.

Making turns

You’ll need more passing distance

When towing a trailer, the green

up ahead when you’re towing a trail-

When you’re turning with a trailer,

arrows on your instrument panel will

er. And, because you’re a good deal

make wider turns than normal. Do

flash for turns even if the bulbs on

longer, you’ll need to go much farther

this so your trailer won’t strike soft

the trailer are burned out. Thus, you

beyond the passed vehicle before

shoulders, curbs, road signs, trees,

may think drivers behind you are

you can return to your lane.

or other objects. Avoid jerky or sud-

seeing your signals when, in fact,

den maneuvers. Signal well in

they are not. It’s important to check

advance.

occasionally to be sure the trailer

bulbs are still working. You must also

check the lights every time you dis-

connect and then reconnect the

wires.

5 37

Driving tips

Do not connect a trailer lighting sys-

Driving on grades

✽ NOTICE

tem directly to your vehicle’s lighting

Reduce speed and shift to a lower

• When towing a trailer on steep

system. Use only an approved trailer

gear before you start down a long or

grades (in excess of 6%) pay close

wiring harness.

steep downgrade. If you don’t shift

attention to the engine coolant

Your Authorized Kia Dealer can

down, you might have to use your

temperature gauge to ensure the

assist you in installing the wiring har-

brakes so much that they would get

engine does not overheat. If the

ness.

hot and no longer operate efficiently.

needle of the coolant temperature

gauge moves across the dial

On a long uphill grade, shift down

CAUTION

towards “H” (HOT), pull over and

and reduce your speed to around 70

stop as soon as it is safe to do so,

km/h (45 mph) to reduce the possi-

Failure to use an approved trail-

and allow the engine to idle until it

bility of engine and transaxle over-

er wiring harness could result in

cools down. You may proceed once

heating.

damage to the vehicle electrical

the engine has cooled sufficiently.

system and/or personal injury.

If your trailer weighs more than the

• You must decide driving speed

maximum trailer weight without trail-

depending on trailer weight and

er brakes and you have an automat-

uphill grade to reduce the possibil-

ic transaxle, you should drive in D

ity of engine and transaxle over-

(Drive) when towing a trailer.

heating.

Operating your vehicle in D (Drive)

when towing a trailer will minimize

heat build up and extend the life of

your transaxle.

5 38

Driving tips

Parking on hills

However, if you ever have to park

When you are ready to leave after

your trailer on a hill, here’s how to do

parking on a hill

Generally, you should not park your

it:

vehicle, with a trailer attached, on a

1. With the manual transaxle in

hill. People can be seriously or fatal-

1. Apply your brakes, but don’t shift

Neutral or automatic transaxle in P

ly injured, and both your vehicle and

into gear.

(Park), apply your brakes and hold

the trailer can be damaged if they

the brake pedal down while you:

2. Have someone place chocks

begin a downhill trajectory.

under the trailer wheels.

• Start your engine;

3. When the wheel chocks are in

• Shift into gear; and

WARNING - Parking on a

place, release the brakes until the

• Release the parking brake.

hill

chocks absorb the load.

2. Slowly remove your foot from the

Parking your vehicle on a hill

4. Reapply the brakes. Apply your

brake pedal.

with a trailer attached could

parking brake, and then shift to R

3. Drive slowly until the trailer is clear

cause serious injury or death,

(Reverse) for a manual transaxle

of the chocks.

should the trailer break lose.

or P (Park) for an automatic

4. Stop and have someone pick up

transaxle.

and store the chocks.

5. Release the brakes.

WARNING - Parking brake

It can be dangerous to get out of

your vehicle if the parking brake

is not firmly set.

If you have left the engine run-

ning, the vehicle can move sud-

denly. You or others could be

seriously or fatally injured.

5 39

Driving tips

OVERLOADING

Maintenance when trailer tow-

✽ NOTICE

CAUTION - Vehicle weight

ing

• Due to higher load during trailer

The gross axle weight rating

usage, overheating might occur in

Your vehicle will need service more

(GAWR) and the gross vehicle

hot days or during uphill driving.

often when you regularly pull a trail-

weight rating (GVWR) for your

If the coolant gauge indicates

er. Important items to pay particular

vehicle are on the manufactur-

over-heating, switch off the A/C

attention to include engine oil, auto-

er's label attached to the dri-

and stop the vehicle in a safe area

matic transaxle fluid, axle lubricant

ver's door. Exceeding these rat-

to cool down the engine.

and cooling system fluid. Brake con-

ings can cause an accident or

• When towing check transaxle

dition is another important item to

vehicle damage. You can calcu-

fluid more frequently.

frequently check. Each item is cov-

late the weight of your load by

• If your vehicle is not equipped

ered in this manual, and the Index

weighing the items (and people)

with the air conditioner, you

will help you find them quickly. If

before putting them in the vehi-

should install a condenser fan to

you’re trailering, it’s a good idea to

cle. Be careful not to overload

improve engine performance

review these sections before you

your vehicle.

when towing a trailer.

start your trip.

Don’t forget to also maintain your

trailer and hitch. Follow the mainte-

nance schedule that accompanied

your trailer and check it periodically.

Preferably, conduct the check at the

start of each day’s driving. Most

importantly, all hitch nuts and bolts

should be tight.

5 40

Driving tips

VEHICLE LOAD LIMIT

Steps for determining correct

5. Determine the combined weight of

load limit

luggage and cargo being loaded

on the vehicle. That weight may

1. Locate the statement "The com-

not safely exceed the available

bined weight of occupants and

cargo and luggage load capacity

cargo should never exceed XXX

calculated in Step 4.

kg or XXX lbs.'' on your vehicle's

6. If your vehicle will be towing a trail-

placard.

er, load from your trailer will be

XXXX/XXXXX

XXX

XX psi

2. Determine the combined weight of

/ XXXX/XXXXX

transferred to your vehicle. Consult

XXX

XX psi

the driver and passengers that will

this manual to determine how this

XXXX/XXXXX

XXX

XX psi

be riding in your vehicle.

reduces the available cargo and

3. Subtract the combined weight of

luggage load capacity of your

6KMN5003

the driver and passengers from

vehicle.

Tire and loading information

XXX kg or XXX lbs.

label

4. The resulting figure equals the

The tire label located on the driver's

available amount of cargo and lug-

door sill gives the original tire size,

gage load capacity. For example, if

cold tire pressures recommended for

the "XXX" amount equals 635 kg

your vehicle, the number of people

(1400 lbs), and there will be five

that can be in your vehicle and vehi-

68 kg (150 lbs) passengers in your

cle capacity weight.

vehicle, the amount of available

cargo and luggage load capacity

is 295 kg (650 lbs).

635-340 (5 x 68) = 650 kg) or

(1400-750 (5 x 150) = 295 lbs.

5 41

Driving tips

Example 1

Example 2

Example 3

C190F01JM

C190F02JM

C190F03JM

Item

Description

Total

Item

Description

Total

Item

Description

Total

Vehicle Capacity

1400 lbs

Vehicle Capacity 1400 lbs

Weight

(635 kg)

Weight

(635 kg)

Weight

(635 kg)

Subtract Occupant

300 lbs

750 lbs

860 lbs

Weight

(136 kg)

(340 kg)

(390 kg)

150 lbs (68 kg) × 2

150 lbs (68 kg) × 5

172 lbs (78 kg) × 5

Available Cargo and

1100 lbs

Available Cargo and 650 lbs

Available Cargo and 540 lbs

Luggage weight

(499 kg)

Luggage weight (295 kg)

Luggage weight (245 kg)

5 42

Driving tips

Refer to your vehicle's tire and load-

Compliance label

WARNING - Over loading

ing information label for specific

The compliance label is located on

information about your vehicle's

• Never exceed the GVWR for

the driver's door sill.

capacity weight and seating posi-

your vehicle, or the GAWR for

The label shows the size of your orig-

tions. The combined weight of the

either the front or rear axle.

inal tires and the inflation pressures

driver, passengers and cargo should

• Do not load your vehicle any

needed to obtain the gross weight

never exceed your vehicle's capacity

heavier than the GVWR, or

capacity of your vehicle. This is

weight.

either the maximum front or

called the GVWR (Gross Vehicle

rear GAWR. If you do, parts on

Weight Rating). The GVWR includes

your vehicle can break, and it

the weight of the vehicle, all occu-

can change the way your vehi-

pants, fuel and cargo.

cle handles. This could cause

This label also tells you the maxi-

you to lose control and crash.

mum weights that can be supported

Also, overloading can shorten

by the front and rear axles, called

the life of your vehicle.

Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR).

To find out the actual loads on your

front and rear axles, you need to go

to a weigh station and weigh your

dealer can help you with

this. Be sure to spread out your load

equally on both sides of the center-

line.

5 43

Driving tips

✽ NOTICE

WARNING - Loose cargo

• Overloading your vehicle may

Items you carry inside your

cause damage. Repairs would not

vehicle can strike and injure

be covered by your warranty. Do

people in a sudden stop or turn,

not overload your vehicle.

or in a crash.

• Using heavier suspension compo-

nents to get added durability

• Put things in the cargo area of

might not change your weight rat-

your vehicle. Try to spread the

ings. Ask your dealer to help you

weight evenly.

load your vehicle the right way.

• Never stack items, like suit-

cases, inside the vehicle

The label will help you decide how

above the tops of the seats.

much cargo and installed equipment

• Do not leave an unsecured

your vehicle can carry.

child restraint in your vehicle.

• When you carry something

If you carry items inside your vehicle

inside the vehicle, secure it.

- like suitcases, tools, packages, or

• Do not drive with a seat folded

anything else - they are moving as

down unless necessary.

fast as the vehicle. If you have to stop

or turn quickly, or if there is a crash,

the items will keep going and can

cause an injury if they strike the driv-

er or a passenger.

5 44

Driving tips

HOMELINK® WIRELESS CONTROL SYSTEM (IF EQUIPPED)

Glare detection sensor

(Continued)

CAUTION

Indicator light

• Retain the original transmitter

• When

programming

the

for future programming proce-

HomeLink® Wireless Control

dures (i.e., new vehicle pur-

System, you may be operating

chase). It is also suggested

a garage door or gate opera-

that upon the sale of the vehi-

tor. Make sure that people and

cle,

the

programmed

objects are out of the way of

HomeLink buttons be erased

the moving door or gate to

for security purposes (follow

prevent potential harm or

step 1 in the “Programming”

damage.

Homelink buttons

MMSA5007

portion of this text).

• Do not use HomeLink with any

Your new mirror comes with an inte-

garage door opener that lacks

grated

HomeLink

Universal

the safety stop and reverse

Transceiver, which allows you to pro-

feature as required by federal

gram the mirror to activate your

safety

standards.

(This

garage door(s), estate gate, home

includes any garage door

lighting, etc. The mirror actually

opener model manufactured

learns the codes from your various

before April 1, 1982.) A garage

existing transmitters.

door opener which cannot

detect an object, signaling the

door to stop and reverse, does

not meet current federal safe-

ty standards. Using a garage

door opener without these

features increases risk of seri-

ous injury or death. For more

information, call 1-800-355-

3515 or on the internet at

(Continued)

5 45

Driving tips

Programming

✽ NOTICE

Flashing

For non rolling code garage door

Your vehicle may require the ignition

openers, follow steps 2 - 3.

switch to be turned to the ACC posi-

For rolling code garage door open-

tion for programming and/or opera-

ers, follow steps 2 - 6.

tion of HomeLink. It is also recom-

For Canadian Programming, please

mended that a new battery be

follow the Canadian Programming

replaced in the hand-held transmitter

section.

of the device being programmed to

For help with determining whether

HomeLink for quicker training and

your garage is non-rolling code or

accurate transmission of the radio-

MMSA5005

rolling code, please refer to the

frequency.

1. When programming the buttons

garage door openers owner’s manu-

Follow these steps to train your

for the first time, press and hold

al or contact HomeLink customer

HomeLink mirror:

the left and center buttons (

service at 1-800-355-3515.

) simultaniously until the

indicator light begins to flash after

approximately 20 seconds. (This

procedure erases the factory-set

default codes. Do Not perform this

step to program additional hand-

held transmitters.)

5 46

Driving tips

3. The HomeLink indicator light will

Rolling code programming

Flashing

flash, first slowly and then rapidly.

To train a garage door opener (or

When the indicator light flashes

other rolling code equipped devices)

rapidly, both buttons may be

with the rolling code feature, follow

released. (The rapid flashing light

these instructions after completing

indicates successful programming

the “Programming” portion of this

of the new frequency signal.)

text. (A second person may make the

3in

following training procedures quicker

✽ NOTICE

& easier.)

4. Locate the “learn” or “smart” but-

Some gate operators and garage

Transmitter

MMSA5006

ton on the device’s motor head

door openers may require you to

2. Press and hold the button on the

unit. Exact location and color of

replace step #3 with the “cycling”

HomeLink system you wish to

the button may vary by product

procedure noted in the “Canadian

train and the button on the trans-

brand. If there is difficulty locating

Programming” section of this docu-

mitter while the transmitter is

the “learn” or “smart” button, refer-

ment.

approximately 1 to 3 inches away

ence the device’s owner’s manual

from the mirror. Do not release the

or contact HomeLink at 1-800-

buttons until step 3 has been com-

355-3515 or on the internet at

pleted.

5. Press and release the “learn” or

“smart” button on the device’s

motor head unit. You have 30 sec-

onds to complete step number 6.

5 47

Driving tips

6. Return to the vehicle and firmly

Operating HomeLink

Flashing

press and release the pro-

To operate, simply press the pro-

grammed HomeLink button up to

grammed

HomeLink

button.

three times. The rolling code

Activation will now occur for the

equipped device should now rec-

trained product (garage door, securi-

ognize the HomeLink signal and

ty system, entry door lock, estate

activate when the HomeLink but-

gate, or home or office lighting). For

ton is pressed. The remaining two

convenience, the hand-held trans-

buttons may now be programmed

mitter of the device may also be used

if this has not previously been

at any time. The HomeLink Wireless

done. Refer to the “Programming”

MMSA5005

Controls System (once programmed)

portion of this text.

Erasing programmed

or the original hand-held transmitter

HomeLink buttons

may be used to activate the device

(e.g. garage door, entry door lock,

To erase the three programmed but-

etc.). In the event that there are still

tons (individual buttons cannot be

programming difficulties, contact

erased):

HomeLink at 1-800-355-3515 or on

• Press and hold the left and center

the internet at

buttons simultaniously, until the

indicator light begins to flash

(approximately 20 seconds).

Release both buttons. Do not hold

for longer than 30 seconds.

HomeLink is now in the train (or

learning) mode and can be pro-

grammed at any time.

5 48

Driving tips

Reprogramming a single

Gate operator programming &

Accessories

HomeLink button

canadian programming

If you would like additional informa-

To program a device to HomeLink

tion on the HomeLink Wireless

During programming, your hand-held

using a HomeLink button previously

Control System, HomeLink compati-

transmitter may automatically stop

trained, follow these steps:

ble products, or to purchase other

transmitting. Continue to press and

accessories such as the HomeLink®

hold the HomeLink button (note

1. Press and hold the desired

Lighting Package, please contact

steps 2 through 4 in the

HomeLink button. Do NOT release

HomeLink at 1-800-355-3515 or on

“Programming” portion of this text)

until step 4 has been completed.

the internet at

while you press and re-press

2. When the indicator light begins to

(“cycle”) your handheld transmitter

flash slowly (after 20 seconds),

every two seconds until the frequen-

position the hand-held transmitter

cy signal has been learned. The indi-

1 to 3 inches away from the

cator light will flash slowly and then

HomeLink surface.

rapidly after several seconds upon

3. Press and hold the hand-held

successful training.

transmitter button (or press and

“cycle” - as described in

✽ NOTICE

“Canadian Programming” above).

If programming a garage door open-

4. The HomeLink indicator light will

er or gate, it is advised to unplug the

flash, first slowly and then rapidly.

device during the “cycling” process

When the indicator light begins to

to prevent possible motor burn-up.

flash rapidly, release both buttons.

The previous device has now been

erased and the new device can be

activated by pushing the HomeLink

button that has just been pro-

grammed. This procedure will not

affect any other programmed

HomeLink buttons.

5 49

Driving tips

This device complies with

Industry Canada Standard RSS-

210. Operation is subject to the fol-

lowing two conditions:

1. This device may not cause inter-

ference, and

2. This device must accept any inter-

ference, including interference that

may cause undesired operation of

the device.

WARNING

Changes or modifications not

expressly approved by the party

responsible for compliance

could void the user’s authority

to operate the equipment.

IC: 4112104541A Gentex

MODEL/FCC ID: NZLSTDHL3

5 50

Driving tips

LABEL INFORMATION

There are several important labels

Frame number

VIN label

and identification numbers located

on your vehicle. The label locations

are identified in the illustrations

shown.

Vehicle identification number

(VIN)

To check the frame number under

1KMA6001

1KMB5042

the passenger seat, remove the

Compliance label

VIN bar code

cover by pulling one side marked

with “PULL”.

1KMN5043

1KMN5044

5 51

Driving tips

2.0L

1KMA6003

2.7L

1KMN5045

Tire specification / pressure

label

5KMB7015

Engine Number

5 52

Driving tips for Your Kia Sportage SUV Second Generation (2004-2010)

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