Parking Brake

Applying the parking brake

To apply the parking brake, first depress the foot brake, then pull the parking brake lever up fully.

Also, when parking the vehicle on a slope, it is recommended that the gear shift lever be in a low gear on vehicles with a manual transmission.

CAUTION

• Driving with the parking brake applied will cause excessive wear of the brake pads and the brake disc.
• Do not apply the parking brake while the vehicle is moving, except in an emergency. This may damage the vehicle's system and create a driving safety hazard.

Releasing the Parking Brake

To release the parking brake, first apply the foot brake and lift the parking brake lever slightly. Second, press the release button (1) and lower the parking brake lever (2) while holding the button.

If the parking brake does not release or does not release fully, have the system inspected by a professional workshop. Kia recommends visiting an authorized Kia dealer/service partner.

• Be careful when parking on a hill. Firmly apply the parking brake and place the gear shift lever in first or reverse gear (manual transmission). If your vehicle is facing downhill, turn the front wheels toward the curb to keep the vehicle from rolling. If your vehicle is facing uphill, turn the front wheels away from the curb to prevent the vehicle from rolling. If there is no curb or other conditions require it to prevent the vehicle from rolling, block the wheels.
• Under some conditions, your parking brake may freeze in the applied position. This most often happens when snow or ice accumulates around or near the rear brakes, or if the brakes are wet. If there is a risk that the parking brake may freeze, apply it only temporarily while placing the gear shift lever in first or reverse gear (manual transmission) and block the rear wheels so the vehicle cannot roll. Then release the parking brake.
• Do not hold the vehicle on a hill with the accelerator pedal. This may cause the transmission to overheat. Always use the brake pedal or the parking brake.

WARNING

• Never allow anyone who is unfamiliar with the vehicle to touch the parking brake. Unintentional release of the parking brake may result in serious injury.
• Always make sure the parking brake is fully applied when parking all vehicles to prevent unintended vehicle movement that may injure passengers or pedestrians.

Check the brake warning light by turning the ignition switch ON (do not start the engine). This warning light illuminates when the parking brake is applied with the ignition switch in the START or ON position.

Before driving, make sure the parking brake is fully released and the brake warning light is off.

If the brake warning light remains on after releasing the parking brake while the engine is running, there may be a malfunction in the brake system. Immediate attention is required.

If possible, stop driving the vehicle immediately. If this is not possible, drive the vehicle with extreme caution and continue only until you reach a safe place or a repair shop.