Winter Precautions

Use high-quality ethylene glycol-based engine coolant.

Your vehicle is delivered with a high-quality ethylene glycol-based engine coolant. This is the only type of coolant that should be used because it helps prevent corrosion in the cooling system, lubricates the water pump, and prevents freezing. Be sure to replace or top up the coolant according to the maintenance schedule in Chapter 9. Before winter, have the coolant checked to make sure its freezing point is sufficient for the temperatures expected in winter.

Check the Battery and Cables

Winter temperatures affect battery performance. Inspect the battery and cables as described in Chapter 9. The battery charge level can be checked at an authorized HYUNDAI dealer or service station.

Change to "Winter" Oil if Necessary

In some regions, it is recommended to use a lower-viscosity "winter grade" engine oil in winter. In addition, replace the engine oil and filter if it is dirty before the next scheduled maintenance interval. Fresh engine oil ensures optimum engine performance during the winter months. For more information, refer to Chapter 2. If you are not sure about the type of winter oil, consult an authorized HYUNDAI dealer.

Inspect Spark Plugs and Ignition System

Inspect the spark plugs as described in Chapter 8. Replace them if necessary. Also check all ignition wires and components for cracks, wear, and damage.

To Prevent Door Locks from Freezing

To prevent the locks from freezing, use an approved anti-freeze or glycerin spray in the key holes. If a lock is already covered with ice, spray an approved de-icing fluid onto the ice to remove it. If the inside of the lock freezes, try to thaw it with a heated key. Use a heated key carefully to avoid injury.

Use an approved windshield washer antifreeze solution.

To prevent the windshield washer from freezing, add an approved windshield washer antifreeze solution as indicated on the washer reservoir. Non-freezing windshield washer solution can be purchased from an authorized HYUNDAI dealer and most automotive accessory stores. Do not use engine coolant or other types of antifreeze solution, as they may damage the vehicle's paint finish.

Prevent the Parking Brake from Freezing

Under some conditions, your parking brake may freeze in the applied position. This is most likely to happen when there is snow or ice accumulation around or near the rear brakes, or if the brakes are wet. When there is a risk that your parking brake may temporarily freeze, apply it with the shift lever in P (Park). Also, chock the rear wheels in advance so that the vehicle cannot roll. Then release the parking brake.

Do not allow ice and snow to accumulate under the vehicle

Under some conditions, snow and ice may accumulate under the fenders and interfere with steering. When driving under such conditions during severe winter weather, you should check the underside of the vehicle regularly to ensure that the front wheels and steering components are not blocked.

Carry emergency rescue equipment.

Depending on weather conditions, you should carry appropriate emergency equipment while driving. Some items you may want to take with you include tire chains, tow straps or chains, a flashlight, emergency flares, sand, a shovel, jumper cables, an ice scraper, gloves, a ground cloth, coveralls, a blanket, etc.

Do not place items or materials in the engine compartment.

Placing items or materials in the engine compartment may cause the engine to malfunction or catch fire because they can block engine cooling. Such damage is not covered by the manufacturer's warranty.