If the engine overheats

If the temperature gauge indicates overheating, you feel a loss of power, or you hear a loud ringing or knocking noise, the engine is probably too hot. If this happens, you should:

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

2. Move the shift lever to P (automatic transmission) or N (manual transmission) and apply the parking brake. If the air conditioner is on, turn it off.

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

4. Check whether the water pump drive belt is present. If it is not missing, make sure it is tight.

If the drive belt appears satisfactory, 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 is broken or engine coolant is leaking, stop the engine immediately and call a professional workshop. Kia recommends contacting an authorized Kia dealer/service partner.

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 has returned to normal. Then, if coolant has been lost, carefully add coolant to the reservoir until the level reaches the middle of the reservoir.

7. Drive carefully and watch for further signs of overheating. If overheating occurs again, call a professional workshop. Kia recommends contacting an authorized Kia dealer/service partner.

CAUTION

• A serious loss of coolant indicates a leak in the cooling system. In this case, have the system inspected by a professional workshop. Kia recommends visiting an authorized Kia dealer/service partner.
• If the engine has overheated due to low engine coolant level, adding engine coolant suddenly may cause the engine to crack. To prevent damage, add engine coolant slowly in small amounts.