Windshield wiper and washer system

The windshield wiper and washer system in the Kia Opirus (2003–2012) offers versatile functions that adapt flexibly to weather conditions. From intermittent operation to an automatic rain sensor and headlight washer system, everything is integrated. Notes on use in cold weather, on caring for the wiper blades, and on the system's safety shutoff when the washer fluid reservoir is empty underline the everyday practicality of this well-designed system.

Windscreen wipers

Version A

The following functions are available when the ignition is switched on.

OFF: Wiper is switched off.

INT: Intermittent wiping with variable wiping cycles.

Use this function in light rain or fog. To change the wiping interval, turn the adjusting ring (1).

LO: Normal wiper speed.

HI: Fast wiper speed.

: To trigger a single wash cycle, briefly push the wiper lever up in the OFF position and release it.

If the lever is pushed up and held, the wipers continue to operate until the lever is released.

NOTE

If the windshield is iced over or covered with snow, first defrost the windshield for about 10 minutes, or remove the snow and/or ice, so that the wipers can be operated properly.

Version B

With the ignition on, the following functions are available: OFF/LO/HI/: See the operating instructions for version A.

AUTO*

The rain sensor, located at the top of the windshield behind the mirror, detects the amount of precipitation and controls the duration of the wiping cycles accordingly. As precipitation increases, the wiper speed increases. When no more precipitation is detected, the wipers return to their rest position. To change the duration of the wiping cycles, turn the adjusting ring (1).

If the wiper switch is in the AUTO position when the ignition is switched on, or if the wiper switch is switched to AUTO with the ignition on, one wiping cycle is performed for system self-diagnosis. Turn the wiper switch to OFF when the wipers are not needed.

NOTE

Turn off the automatic wiper function when washing the vehicle.

With the AUTO function on, the wipers may move during an automatic car wash. This could cause damage.

Do not remove the cover of the rain sensor, located at the top of the windshield inside the vehicle. Components of the rain sensor system could be damaged. This damage may not be covered by the vehicle warranty.

Turn the wiper switch to OFF when starting the engine in winter. The wipers may move on their own and the wiper blades could be damaged by ice. Remove all snow and ice from the windshield before operating the wipers.

If the wiper switch is in the AUTO position with the ignition on, observe the following safety precautions to avoid injury to your hands and other body parts:

• Do not touch the windshield from the outside in the area above the rain sensor.
• Do not wipe the upper area of the windshield with a damp or wet cloth.
• Do not apply pressure to the windshield.

Variable Wiper Intermittent Control

Move the wiper lever to the INT or AUTO position, then turn the adjusting ring to set the desired wiping interval.

Single Wipe

To trigger a single wash cycle, briefly push the wiper lever up in the OFF position and release it.

If the lever is pushed up and held, the wipers continue to operate until the lever is released.

• To avoid possible damage to the wipers or windshield, do not operate the wipers when the windshield is dry.
• To avoid damaging the wiper rubbers, do not allow gasoline, thinner or other solvents to get on or near the wiper blades.
• To avoid damage to the wiper arms or other components, do not try to move the wipers by hand.

Windscreen washer system

Pull the wiper lever slightly toward you in the OFF switch position to spray washer fluid onto the windshield. The wipers then perform 2-3 wiping cycles.

Use this function when the windshield is dirty.

If you keep the wiper lever pulled, washer fluid spraying and automatic wiping cycles continue until you release the wiper lever.

If the washer system does not operate, check the washer fluid level. If the level is low, fill the reservoir with washer fluid or a suitable cleaning fluid.

To avoid possible damage to the washer pump, do not operate the windshield washer system when the washer fluid reservoir is empty.

In freezing conditions, operate the windshield washer only after warming the windshield with the windshield defroster. Otherwise, the washer fluid could freeze on the windshield and impair your visibility.

Headlight Washer*

To operate the headlight washer, turn on the headlight switch with the engine running. Press the headlight washer button to activate the washer. Release the switch to stop the washer.

The windshield wiper and washer system of the Kia Opirus 2003–2011 provides clear visibility in all weather. Thanks to various wiper modes and the optional rain sensor control, the system automatically adapts to conditions.

Well-designed safety features, such as protection against damage from ice or snow, highlight the high quality of the equipment. This keeps the Kia Opirus a safe vehicle even in difficult weather conditions.

The simple operation of the washer system adds to comfort and helps the driver with everyday vehicle care.