Winter Precautions

Use high-quality glycol-based coolant.

Your vehicle uses a high-quality ethylene glycol coolant. It is the only type of coolant that should be used, as it helps prevent corrosion in the cooling system, lubricates the water pump, and prevents freezing. Be sure to replace or refill the coolant according to the maintenance schedule in Chapter 7. Before winter, check the coolant to make sure its freezing point is adequate for the expected winter temperatures.

Check the Battery and Cables

Winter places additional demands on the battery. Inspect the battery and cables as described in Chapter 7. The battery charge level can be checked by an authorized HYUNDAI dealer or a service station.

Change to winter-grade engine oil if necessary

In some climates, it is recommended to use a winter-grade oil with lower cold-cranking viscosity. Refer to Chapter 8 for recommendations. If you are unsure which oil to use, we recommend contacting an authorized HYUNDAI dealer.

Inspect Spark Plugs and Ignition System

Inspect the spark plugs as described in Chapter 7 and replace them if necessary. Also check all wiring and ignition system components to make sure they are not cracked, worn, or damaged in any way.

To Prevent Door Locks from Freezing

To prevent the locks from freezing, spray an approved de-icer or glycerin into the keyhole. If the lock is covered with ice, spray it with an approved de-icing fluid to remove the ice. If the lock is frozen internally, it can be thawed with a heated key. Handle a hot key with care to avoid burns.

Use approved antifreeze

To prevent the windshield washer fluid from freezing, add an approved antifreeze in accordance with the instructions on the container. This product can be purchased from an authorized HYUNDAI dealer and most auto parts stores. Do not use engine coolant or other types of antifreeze, as they may damage paint finish.

Do not allow the parking brake to lock

Under certain conditions, the parking brake may freeze in the applied position. This most often occurs when snow or ice accumulates around or near the rear brakes, or when the brakes are wet. If there is a risk of the parking brake freezing, apply it only briefly, place the gear selector in P (automatic transmission) or in 1st or Reverse (manual transmission), and chock the rear wheels so the vehicle cannot move. Then release the parking brake.

Do not allow snow and ice to accumulate under the vehicle

Under certain conditions, snow and ice can accumulate under the fenders and affect steering. When driving in winter in difficult conditions where this may occur, periodically inspect the vehicle's chassis to make sure the front wheels and steering components move freely.

Carrying emergency equipment

Your emergency equipment should be suited to severe climates. Items you may want to carry include tire chains, tow straps, a lantern, a flashlight, sand, a shovel, jumper cables, an ice scraper, gloves, a floor mat, coveralls, a blanket, etc.

Do not place foreign objects in the engine compartment

Any foreign object that enters the engine compartment and interferes with engine cooling may cause malfunction or fire. The manufacturer is not responsible for damage resulting from the introduction of such a foreign object.