Jump-starting

Jump starting the Kia Opirus must be carried out correctly to avoid damage to the electrical system or injury. This section describes in detail the connection sequence, necessary precautions, and the jump-start procedure. Towing and push-starting are also covered, with clear warnings for vehicles with automatic transmissions. By following these instructions, you can start the vehicle safely and protect it effectively from electrical damage.

Starting the Engine with Jumper Cables

Starting the engine with jumper cables can be dangerous if the jump start is not performed correctly. Follow the instructions for jump starting on this page to avoid personal injury as well as damage to your vehicle and the vehicle battery. If you are not sure of the procedure, have the jump start performed by a qualified technician or roadside assistance service.

NOTE

Use only a 12 V battery or a 12 V jump-start system.

Using a 24 V power source can irreparably damage the vehicle's electrical system, including the starter motor, ignition system, and other components.

Never attempt to check the specific gravity of the battery acid. The battery could rupture or explode and cause serious injury.

• Keep flames and sparks away from the battery. A battery produces hydrogen-containing gases that can explode when exposed to flames or sparks.
• Never try to start the engine with jumper cables if the discharged battery is frozen or the electrolyte level is too low. The battery could rupture or explode.

Connecting the Jumper Cables

Jump-Start Procedure

1. Make sure that the donor battery is a 12 V battery and that its negative cable is attached to the vehicle.

2. If the donor battery is installed in another vehicle, the vehicles must not touch.

3. Switch off all unnecessary electrical loads in both vehicles.

4. Connect the jumper cables exactly in the order shown in the illustration. First, connect one clamp of the positive (red) cable to the positive terminal of the discharged battery. Then connect the other clamp of the positive (red) cable to the positive terminal of the donor battery.

Now connect one clamp of the negative (black) cable to the negative terminal of the donor battery. Connect the other clamp of the negative cable to a solid, stationary metal part (e.g., engine lifting bracket) in the engine compartment of the vehicle being started, at a distance from the battery.

Do not attach the clamp to or next to a component that moves when the engine starts. Do not connect the negative cable to the negative terminal of the discharged battery.

Make sure the cable clamps do not touch any parts other than the specified battery terminals or the specified ground point on the engine. Do not lean over the battery while attaching the clamps to the battery terminals.

5. Start the engine of the donor vehicle and let it run at approx. 2000 rpm. Now start the engine of the vehicle with the discharged battery.

6. After the engine has started successfully, first switch on high-load consumers such as the rear window defroster and the blower (do not switch on the lights). Only then disconnect the jumper cables.

Failure to observe this note may cause voltage spikes in the electrical system that can destroy sensitive control units.

If the cause of the battery discharge is unclear, we recommend having your vehicle checked by an authorized KIA dealer.

Push-Starting the Vehicle

Vehicles with automatic transmissions cannot be push-started.

Follow the instructions in this section to start the engine with jumper cables.

Never attempt to tow-start a vehicle. If the engine suddenly starts, there is a risk of colliding with the towing vehicle.

Jump-starting the Kia Opirus 2003–2011 requires care and strict adherence to the instructions to avoid damage to the vehicle and injury. Only suitable batteries and cables should be used.

Following the correct procedure minimizes the risk of voltage spikes, explosions and other hazards. This keeps the Kia Opirus a safe and reliable vehicle even in an emergency.

Why must a 24V battery never be used for jump-starting?
It could damage the vehicle electrical system and cause irreparable damage.

What to do if the engine does not start with jumper cables?
Call roadside assistance or an authorized KIA dealer and have the system checked.