Parking Brake

Applying the parking brake

To apply the parking brake, first depress the foot brake, then pull the parking brake lever fully up.

In addition, when parking the vehicle on a slope, it is recommended that the shift lever be in a low gear on manual transmission vehicles.

CAUTION

• Driving with the parking brake applied will cause excessive wear of the brake pads and brake discs.
• Do not operate the parking brake while the vehicle is moving, except in emergency situations. This may damage the vehicle system and compromise driving safety.

Releasing the Parking Brake

To release the parking brake, first depress the foot brake and lift the parking brake lever slightly. Next, press the release button (1) and lower the parking brake lever (2) while holding the button.

If the parking brake does not release or does not fully release, have the system inspected by a professional workshop. Kia recommends visiting an authorized Kia dealer/service partner.

• Be careful when parking on a hill. Firmly apply the parking brake and place the shift lever in first gear or reverse (manual transmission). If your vehicle is facing downhill, turn the front wheels toward the curb to help keep the vehicle from rolling. If your vehicle is facing uphill, turn the front wheels away from the curb to help keep the vehicle from rolling. If there is no curb, or if other conditions require it to keep the vehicle from rolling, chock the wheels.
• Under some conditions, your parking brake may freeze in the applied position. This is most likely to occur when there is accumulated snow or ice around or near the rear brakes, or if the brakes are wet. If there is a risk that the parking brake may freeze, apply it only temporarily while you place the shift lever in first or reverse gear (manual transmission) and chock the rear wheels so the vehicle cannot roll. Then release the parking brake.
• Do not hold the vehicle on an incline with the accelerator pedal. This may cause the transmission to overheat. Always use the brake pedal or the parking brake.

WARNING

• Never allow a passenger to touch the parking brake. If the parking brake is released unintentionally, serious injury may result.
• Always fully apply the parking brake when parking the vehicle to avoid unintended movement that may injure passengers or pedestrians.

Check the brake warning light by turning the ignition on (do not start the engine). This light will illuminate when the parking brake is applied with the ignition switch in the ON or START position.

Before driving, make sure the parking brake is fully released and the brake warning light is off.

If the brake system warning light remains illuminated after releasing the parking brake with the engine running, there may be a malfunction in the brake system. Immediate attention is required.

If possible, stop driving the vehicle immediately. If this is not possible, use extreme caution while driving and continue to drive only until you can reach a safe place or a repair shop.