If the engine overheats

If the temperature gauge indicates overheating, you notice a loss of power, or you hear a loud knocking or pinging from the engine, the engine is probably too hot. If this occurs, you should:

1. Pull off the road and stop as soon as it is safe.

2. Shift the transmission into P (automatic transmission) or Neutral (manual transmission) and set the parking brake. If the air conditioner is on, turn it off.

3. If engine coolant is leaking under the vehicle or steam is coming from under the hood, stop the engine. Do not open the hood until the leaking stops or the steam subsides. If there is no visible coolant loss and no steam, keep the engine running and make sure the engine cooling fan is operating. If the fan does not operate, turn the engine off.

4. Check that the water pump drive belt is operating. Make sure the belt is not missing. If it is not missing, check that it is tight. If the belt appears to be in satisfactory condition, check for coolant leaks from the radiator, hoses, or under the vehicle. (If the air conditioner has been in use, it is normal for cold water to drip from it when you stop.)

WARNING

While the engine is running, keep hair, hands, and clothing away from moving parts, such as the cooling fan and drive belts, to avoid injury.

5. If the water pump drive belt breaks or engine coolant is leaking, stop the engine immediately and we recommend that you contact an authorized Kia dealer.

WARNING

Do not remove the radiator cap when the engine is hot. Coolant may spray out of the opening and cause serious burns.

6. If you cannot find the cause of overheating, wait until the engine temperature returns to normal. Then, if coolant has been lost, carefully add coolant to the reservoir until the coolant level reaches the half-way mark.

7. Proceed with caution and watch for additional signs of overheating. If overheating occurs again, we recommend that you contact an authorized Kia dealer.

CAUTION

A significant loss of coolant indicates a leak in the cooling system. We recommend that the system be inspected by an authorized Kia dealer.