What to Do

Use high-quality ethylene glycol-based engine coolant.

Your vehicle is filled with high-quality ethylene glycol-based engine coolant. This 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 add coolant according to the maintenance schedule. Before winter, check the coolant to make sure its freezing point is sufficient for the temperatures expected during winter.

Check the Battery and Cables

Winter places additional demands on the battery system. Visually inspect the battery and cables as described in Chapter 8. We recommend having the system checked by an authorized Kia dealer.

Change to "winter" engine oil if necessary.

In some climates, it is recommended to use a lower-viscosity "winter weight" oil during cold weather. Refer to Chapter 9 for recommendations. If you are unsure which oil weight to use, we recommend consulting an authorized Kia dealer.

Inspect Spark Plugs and Ignition System

Inspect the spark plugs as described in Chapter 8, and replace them if necessary. Also check all ignition wiring and components to make sure they are not cracked, worn, or damaged in any way.

To Prevent Door Locks from Freezing

To prevent door locks from freezing, spray approved de-icer or glycerin into the keyhole. If the lock is covered with ice, spray it with approved de-icer to remove the ice. If the lock is frozen internally, you may thaw it with a heated key. Handle the heated key carefully to avoid injury.

Use Approved Windshield Washer Antifreeze in the System

To prevent the washer fluid in the washer system from freezing, add an approved windshield washer antifreeze solution according to the instructions on the container. Windshield washer antifreeze is available from an authorized Kia dealer and most auto parts stores. Do not use engine coolant or other types of antifreeze, as they may damage the paint finish.

Do Not Let the Parking Brake Freeze

Under some 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 if the brakes are wet. If there is a risk the parking brake may freeze, apply it only temporarily while you move the shift lever to P (automatic transaxle / dual clutch transmission) or into first or reverse gear (manual transmission), and block the rear wheels so the vehicle cannot roll. Then release the parking brake.

Do not allow ice and snow to accumulate under

Under certain conditions, snow and ice may accumulate under the fenders and interfere with the steering. When driving in severe winter conditions where this may occur, periodically check the underside of the vehicle to make sure the front wheels and steering components are not blocked.

Carry Emergency Equipment

Depending on the severity of the weather, you should carry appropriate emergency equipment. Some items you may take with you include snow 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.