Operating the Vehicle

Before Driving

~4min read

WARNING - EXHAUST GAS - DANGER!

Engine exhaust gas can be very dangerous. Whenever you smell exhaust gas inside the vehicle, open the windows immediately.

• Do not breathe exhaust gas.

Exhaust gas contains carbon monoxide, which is odorless and colorless and can cause loss of consciousness and death by asphyxiation.

• Make sure there are no leaks in the exhaust system.

The exhaust system should be inspected whenever the vehicle is raised for oil change or other purposes. If the exhaust sound changes or after the vehicle has struck a foreign object, have the exhaust system inspected by an authorized HYUNDAI dealer as soon as possible.

• Do not operate the engine in enclosed spaces.

Idling the engine in a garage is dangerous even with the doors open. Never run the engine in a garage longer than necessary to start it and drive out.

• Avoid prolonged engine idling when people are inside the vehicle.

If it is necessary, it is permitted only in open areas, with the air intake set to "Fresh Air" and the blower operating at high speed so that fresh air enters the cabin.

If you are transporting items that require the luggage compartment lid to be kept open, do the following:

1. Close all windows.
2. Open the side vent windows.
3. Set the air intake control to "Fresh Air", the airflow control to "Floor" or "Through Instrument Panel", and the blower to high speed.

To ensure proper operation of the ventilation system, make sure the air intake openings located directly in front of the windshield are not blocked by snow, ice, leaves, or other obstructions.

Before Driving

Before Getting into the Vehicle

• Make sure all glass, outside mirrors, and exterior lights are clean.
• Check the condition of the tires.
• Look under the vehicle for any signs of leaks.
• If you are going to reverse, make sure there are no obstacles behind the vehicle.

Necessary Checks

Regularly check fluid levels, such as engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, and windshield washer fluid.

The inspection intervals depend on the type of fluid. For more information, refer to Section 7 "Maintenance".

WARNING

Do not become distracted while driving, as this may lead to loss of vehicle control, accidents, serious injury, or even death. The driver's main task is to drive the vehicle safely in accordance with traffic regulations, using devices and equipment or vehicle systems that do not distract the driver from driving or that are not prohibited by law for use while driving.

Before Starting the Engine

• Close and lock all doors.
• Adjust the seat so that all controls are easily accessible.
• Adjust the inside and outside rearview mirrors.
• Make sure all lights are working properly.
• Check all turn signals.
• When the ignition key is turned to the ON position, check that the warning lights illuminate.
• Release the parking brake and make sure the corresponding warning light goes off.
For your safety, it is very important to have a good understanding of the vehicle and its equipment.

WARNING

All passengers must be properly secured with seat belts while the vehicle is in motion. For information on proper use, refer to "Seat Belts" in Section 3.

WARNING

Before shifting the selector lever into D (Drive) or R (Reverse), always check that there are no people nearby, especially children.

WARNING

- Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol or Drugs

Driving under the influence of alcohol is dangerous. Driving while intoxicated accounts for a large share of fatal traffic accident statistics. Even a small amount of alcohol affects your reflexes, perception, and judgment. Driving under the influence of drugs is no less dangerous, and may even be more dangerous, than after drinking alcohol.

In these conditions, the likelihood of a serious traffic accident increases significantly.

If you have been drinking or using drugs, do not drive.

Do not get into the vehicle if the driver is impaired. Use a hired driver or call a taxi.

WARNING

• If you are going to park the vehicle or stop it with the engine running, do not press the accelerator pedal for a long time.

This may cause the engine or exhaust system to overheat and result in a fire.
• In a sudden stop or sharp turn, loose objects may fall onto the floor and interfere with the pedals, which may lead to an accident. Make sure all items in the vehicle are secured in their places.
• Being distracted while driving may result in an accident. Use caution when performing any operations that may distract you while driving, such as adjusting the heater or audio system. The driver must always remember to observe safety rules while driving.

Test yourself

A quick Hyundai Solaris quiz: every answer comes with an explanation and a link to the manual page.