Electronic Power Steering

The power steering system uses the engine to assist you in steering the vehicle. If the engine is off or the power steering system malfunctions, the vehicle can still be steered, but more effort will be required at the steering wheel.

The electronic power steering is controlled by the power steering control unit, which determines the torque on the steering wheel and the vehicle speed to control the motor.

Steering effort increases as vehicle speed increases and becomes lighter as vehicle speed decreases, for better control of the steering wheel.

If you notice any change in the effort required to steer during normal vehicle operation, we recommend that the system be inspected by an authorized Kia dealer.

✽ NOTICE

The following symptoms may occur during normal vehicle operation:

• The EPS warning light does not illuminate.
• Steering effort may be high immediately after the ignition is turned on. This occurs while the system performs an EPS system diagnosis. When the diagnosis is complete, the steering wheel will return to normal.
• A clicking sound may be heard from the EPS relay after the ignition switch is turned to ON or LOCK/OFF.
• A motor noise may be heard when the vehicle is parked or driven at low speed.
• Steering effort increases if the steering wheel is turned continuously while the vehicle is not moving. However, it will return to normal conditions after a few minutes.
• If a fault is detected in the electric power steering system, the EPS will stop assisting the driver in steering the vehicle to prevent accidents, and the warning lamp on the instrument panel will illuminate or flash. We recommend that the system be inspected by an authorized Kia dealer as soon as possible.
• When steering at low temperatures, abnormal noise may occur. The noise will disappear as the temperature rises. This is a normal condition.
• When the vehicle is stationary, if you turn the steering wheel fully to the left or right and hold it there continuously, the steering wheel becomes heavier toward the end of travel. This is not a system malfunction but is for your safety. After a period of time, the steering wheel returns to normal condition.
• When the charging system warning light is illuminated or low voltage (when the generator (or battery) is not operating normally or is malfunctioning), the steering wheel may become heavy and difficult to control, and may operate abnormally.