Driving

Steering wheel

~3min read

The power steering in the Kia Opirus makes maneuvering considerably easier, especially at low speeds. Even at low temperatures or if the engine has failed, the vehicle remains steerable, although more steering effort is required. Thanks to the adjustable steering column – manual or electric – the driving position can be adapted individually. The integrated horn and safety warnings complete the practical equipment of this vehicle.

Power Steering

The engine-driven power steering makes it easier for you to steer the vehicle. If the engine is switched off or if the power steering has failed, the vehicle can still be steered, but in this case considerably more effort is required.

If you notice that the steering effort changes during normal driving, have the power steering checked by an authorized KIA dealer.

NOTE

  • Do not hold the steering wheel at the maximum left or right steering lock for more than 5 seconds with the engine running. If the steering wheel is held at maximum steering lock for more than 5 seconds, the power steering pump may be damaged.
  • If the power steering pump drive belt is broken or the power steering pump is malfunctioning, considerably more effort is required to steer the vehicle.

NOTE

If the vehicle has been parked outdoors for an extended period in cold weather, you may need noticeably more effort to steer immediately after starting the engine for the first time. This is caused by the power steering fluid thickening in the cold and does not indicate a malfunction of the steering system.

If this occurs, briefly depress the accelerator pedal and raise the engine speed to approximately 1500 rpm.

Release the accelerator pedal, then let the engine idle for 2 to 3 minutes to warm up the power steering fluid.

Tilt Steering Wheel*

The tilt steering wheel allows you to adjust the angle of the steering column to the desired height before driving.

You can also raise the steering wheel to provide more legroom when getting in and out of the vehicle.

Adjust the steering wheel so that you can sit comfortably and steer while keeping the instruments and warning and indicator lamps in view.

WARNING
  • Never adjust the steering wheel while driving. You could lose control of the vehicle, which could result in serious injury and property damage.
  • After adjusting, try to move the steering wheel up and down to make sure it is locked securely in position.
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Manual Type

To adjust the steering column angle, pull the steering column lock lever (1), move the steering column to the desired angle (2), then release the lock lever to lock the steering column in place.

Always adjust the steering column before driving.

Lenkrad

Electric Type

With the ignition on (ignition key in the ON position), press the button to adjust the steering column angle.

Never adjust the steering column while driving.

Lenkrad

Horn

To sound the horn, press the area of the steering wheel marked with the horn symbols.

Check the horn regularly to make sure it is working properly.

CAUTION
  • To sound the horn, press the area of the steering wheel marked with the horn symbols. The horn sounds only when you press the marked area of the steering wheel.
  • Do not strike the horn switch with your fist or other objects. Do not stab the horn switch area of the steering wheel with sharp objects.

The power steering of the Kia Opirus 2003–2011 makes steering especially comfortable and light. Even with the engine off, the vehicle remains steerable, although more effort is required.

The adjustable steering column and ergonomically designed horn contribute to ease of use and increase comfort in everyday driving. The Kia Opirus thus offers well-thought-out solutions for the driver.

Regularly checking the steering and horn functions ensures that the Kia Opirus 2003–2011 is always ready for road use.

Test yourself

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