Notes on special driving conditions. Driving through flooded areas. Hydraulic lash adjuster (HLA) noise

Driving through flooded areas with the Kia Opirus (2003–2011) requires particular caution. Water must never rise above the underside of the wheel hub. After driving through water, it is advisable to dry the brake system by lightly pressing the brake pedal to restore full braking power. This chapter also explains hydraulic lash adjuster (HLA) noise during a cold start. This noise is usually harmless and disappears after a short period of operation. Persistent noise should, however, be checked by an authorized KIA service center.

Driving through flooded areas

Avoid driving through flooded areas unless you are sure the water does not rise above the underside of the wheel hubs. Always drive slowly through water and keep a sufficient distance, as braking performance may be reduced.

After driving through water, dry the brakes by lightly pressing the brake pedal several times while driving.

If you have any doubts about the function of your brake system, have it checked by an authorized KIA dealer.

Hydraulic lash adjuster (HLA) noise

To compensate for thermal expansion, the hydraulic lash adjusters automatically adjust the clearance between the valves and camshafts.

When starting the engine or at idle, the valve clearance may cause some noise. This noise decreases for the following simple reasons.

Do not raise the engine speed above 3000 rpm while the continuous noise persists.

At higher engine speeds, the hydraulic lash adjusters could be damaged.

If temporary noise occurs when starting a cold engine

This is normal. The noise stops as soon as the engine oil pressure reaches its standard value.

If continuous noise occurs when starting an engine that has not run for 48 hours, or during prolonged starting attempts

The cause may be that some engine oil has leaked out of the high-pressure reservoirs of the hydraulic lash adjusters and air has entered them. The noise stops after the engine has run for approx. 15 minutes at speeds between 2000 and 3000 rpm.

If the noise does not stop, have the hydraulic lash adjusters and oil circuit checked by an authorized KIA dealer.

The Kia Opirus 2003–2011 is also designed for special conditions such as driving through water. Driving carefully through flooded areas and then drying the brakes increases safety and prevents damage.

The hydraulic lash adjusters of the Kia Opirus automatically compensate for valve clearance to ensure smooth engine operation. Slight noise after starting is normal and usually disappears after a short time, once oil pressure has built up.

Observing these notes helps ensure engine longevity and allows you to use the Kia Opirus reliably on all routes.