Kia Niro Hybrid / Plug-in Hybrid (2022 year). Manual in english

Maintenance

ENGINE CLUTCH ACTUATOR FLUID

Checking the engine clutch

If the fluid level is excessively low, we

actuator fluid level

recommend that the system be

WARNING - Engine clutch

checked by an authorized Kia dealer.

actuator fluid

When changing and adding

engine clutch actuator fluid,

Use only the specified engine clutch

handle it carefully. Do not let it

actuator fluid.

come in contact with your eyes.

(Refer to “Recommended lubricants

If engine clutch actuator fluid

or capacities” in chapter 8.)

should come in contact with

your eyes, immediately flush

Never mix different types of fluid.

them with a large quantity of

fresh water, and seek medical

attention as soon as possible.

✽ NOTICE - Loss of engine

ODE076057

clutch actuator fluid

In the event the engine clutch actua-

In normal driving conditions, the

tor requires frequent additions of

actuator fluid level does not go down

fluid, we recommend that the system

rapidly. However, oil consumption

be inspected by an authorized Kia

rate may rise as vehicle mileage

dealer.

increases, and leakage in actuator

related parts may result in increased

consumption of the engine clutch

actuator oil. Regularly check and

make sure the engine clutch actuator

oil fluid level is between [MIN] and

[MAX] marks.

If the oil level is below [MIN] mark,

we recommend that your vehicle be

checked by an authorized Kia dealer.

Maintenance

CAUTION

Do not allow engine clutch actu-

ator fluid to contact the vehi-

cle's body paint, as paint dam-

age will result. The engine

clutch actuator fluid that has

been exposed to open air for an

extended time should never be

used as its quality cannot be

guaranteed. It should be proper-

ly disposed. Do not put in the

wrong kind of fluid. A few drops

of mineral-based oil, such as

engine oil, in your engine clutch

actuator system can damage

engine clutch actuator system

parts.

Maintenance

WASHER FLUID

Checking the washer fluid

level

WARNING - Flammable

WARNING - Windshield

fluid

Do not allow the washer fluid to

Do not drink the windshield

come in contact with open

washer fluid. The windshield

flames or sparks. The windshield

washer fluid is poisonous to

washer fluid reservoir is flamma-

humans and animals.

ble under certain circumstances.

This can result in a fire.

WARNING - Coolant

• Do not use radiator coolant or

ODE076009

antifreeze in the washer fluid

The reservoir is translucent so that

reservoir.

you can check the level with a quick

• Radiator coolant can severely

visual inspection.

obscure visibility when sprayed

on the windshield and may

Check the fluid level in the washer

fluid reservoir and add fluid if neces-

cause loss of vehicle control.

sary. Plain water may be used if

washer fluid is not available.

However, use washer solvent with

antifreeze characteristics in cold cli-

mates to prevent freezing.

Maintenance

Replace the filter according to the

Maintenance Schedule.

CAUTION - Air filter

maintenance

If the vehicle is operated in extreme-

ly dusty or sandy areas, replace the

• Do not drive with the air clean-

element more often than the usual

er removed; this will result in

recommended intervals.

(Refer to

excessive engine wear.

“Maintenance under severe usage

• When removing the air cleaner

conditions” in this chapter.)

filter, be careful that dust or

dirt does not enter the air

intake, or damage may result.

• Use a Kia genuine part. Use of

a non-genuine part could

damage the air flow sensor.

Maintenance

CLIMATE CONTROL AIR FILTER (IF EQUIPPED)

Filter inspection

The climate control air filter should

be replaced according to the

Maintenance Schedule. If the vehicle

is operated in severely air-polluted

cities or on dusty rough roads for a

long period, it should be inspected

more frequently and replaced earlier.

When you replace the climate control

air filter, replace it performing the fol-

lowing procedure, and be careful to

avoid damaging other components.

ODEP079015

ODEP079014

1. Open the glove box and remove

2. With the glove box open, pull the

the stoppers on both sides.

support strap (1).

Maintenance

WIPER BLADES

Blade inspection

Contamination of either the wind-

Blade replacement

shield or the wiper blades with for-

When the wipers no longer clean

eign matter can reduce the effective-

adequately, the blades may be worn

ness of the windshield wipers.

or cracked, and require replacement.

Common sources of contamination

To prevent damage to the wiper arms

are insects, tree sap, and hot wax

treatments used by some commer-

or other components, do not attempt

to move the wipers manually.

cial car washes. If the blades are not

wiping properly, clean both the win-

The use of a non-specified wiper

dow and the blades with a good

blade could result in wiper malfunc-

cleaner or mild detergent, and rinse

tion and failure.

thoroughly with clean water.

1JBA5122

CAUTION - Wiper blades

Commercial hot waxes

applied by

To prevent damage to the wiper

automatic car washes have been

blades, do not use gasoline,

known to make the windshield diffi-

kerosene, paint thinner, or other

cult to clean.

solvents on or near them.

Maintenance

Front windshield wiper blade

1JBA7037

OHM078060

1LDA5023

Type A

1. Raise the wiper arm and turn the

wiper blade assembly to expose

the plastic locking clip.

CAUTION - Wiper arms

1JBA7038

OHM078061

Do not allow the wiper arm to

2. Compress the clip and slide the

Type B

fall against the windshield,

since it may chip or crack the

blade assembly downward.

1. Raise the wiper arm.

windshield.

3. Lift it off the arm.

4. Install the blade assembly in the

reverse order of removal.

Maintenance

2. Lift up the wiper blade clip. Then

Rear window wiper blade

pull down the blade assembly and

remove it.

3. Install the new blade assembly.

4. Return the wiper arm on the wind-

shield.

CAUTION - Wiper arms

Do not allow the wiper arm to

fall against the windshield,

since it may chip or crack the

OHM078063

windshield.

2. Install the new blade assembly by

OHM078062

inserting the center part into the

1. Raise the wiper arm and pull out

slot in the wiper arm until it clicks

the wiper blade assembly.

into place.

3. Make sure the blade assembly is

installed firmly by trying to pull it

slightly.

To prevent damage to the wiper arms

or other components, have an

authorized Kia dealer replace the

wiper blade.

Maintenance

BATTERY (PLUG-IN HYBRID)

For best battery service

Always read the following

WARNING - Risk of

instructions carefully when

explosion

handling a battery.

Keep lit cigarettes and

If any electrolyte gets into

all other flames or

your eyes, flush your eyes

sparks away from the

with clean water for at least

battery.

15 minutes and get immedi-

ate medical attention.

The battery contains

hydrogen

-- a highly

If electrolyte gets on your

combustible gas which

skin, thoroughly wash the

will explode if it comes

contacted area. If you feel

in contact with a flame or

pain or burning sensation,

spark.

get medical attention imme-

ODEP071016

diately.

Keep batteries out of the

•

Keep the battery securely mount-

reach

children

An inappropriately disposed

ed.

because batteries con-

battery can be harmful to the

•

Keep the battery top clean and dry.

tain highly corrosive

environment and human

SULFURIC ACID and

health. Dispose the battery

•

Keep the terminals and connec-

tions clean, tight, and coated with

electrolytes. Do not

according to your local law(s)

allow battery acid to

or regulation.

petroleum jelly or terminal grease.

contact your skin, eyes,

•

Rinse any spilled electrolyte from

The battery contains lead. Do

clothing or paint finish.

not dispose of it after use.

the battery immediately with a

solution of water and baking soda.

Wear eye protection

Please return the battery to

when charging or work-

an authorized Kia dealer to

•

If the vehicle is not going to be

ing near a battery.

be recycled.

used for an extended time, discon-

Always provide ventila-

nect the battery cables.

Never attempt to recharge the bat-

tion when working in an

tery when the battery cables are con-

enclosed space.

nected.

Maintenance

Recharging the battery

WARNING - Risk of elec-

WARNING - Battery lead

Your vehicle has a maintenance-free,

trocution

compound

calcium-based battery.

Never touch the electrical igni-

Battery posts, terminals, and

• If the battery becomes discharged

tion system while the vehicle is

related accessories contain

in a short time (because, for exam-

running. This system works

lead and lead compounds.

ple, the headlamps or interior

with high voltage which can

Wash hands after handling.

lamps were left on while the vehi-

shock you.

cle was not in use), recharge it by

slow charging (trickle) for 10 hours.

✽ NOTICE

• If the battery gradually discharges

WARNING - Recharging

If you connect unauthorized elec-

because of high electric load while

Battery

tronic devices to the battery, the bat-

the vehicle is being used, recharge

Never attempt to recharge the

tery may be discharged. Never use

it at 20-30A for two hours.

battery when the battery cables

unauthorized devices.

are connected.

Maintenance

When recharging the battery,

•

Before performing maintenance or

Reset items

observe the following precautions:

recharging the battery, turn off all

The following items should be reset

accessories and stop the engine.

•

The battery must be removed from

after the battery has been dis-

the vehicle and placed in an area

•

The negative battery cable must be

charged or the battery has been dis-

with good ventilation.

removed first and installed last

connected.

when the battery is disconnected.

•

Do not allow cigarettes, sparks, or

•

Auto up/down window

flame near the battery.

•

Sunroof

•

Watch the battery during charging,

•

Trip computer

and stop or reduce the charging

rate if the battery cells begin

•

Climate control system

gassing (boiling) violently or if the

•

Driver position memory system

temperature of the electrolyte of

•

Audio

any cell exceeds 120°F (49°C).

•

Wear eye protection when check-

ing the battery during charging.

•

Disconnect the battery charger in

the following order.

1. Turn off the battery charger main

switch.

2. Unhook the negative clamp from

the negative battery terminal.

3. Unhook the positive clamp from

the positive battery terminal.

Maintenance

TIRES AND WHEELS

Tire care

WARNING - Tire underin-

For proper maintenance, safety, and

flation

maximum fuel economy, you must

always maintain recommended tire

Inflate your tires consistent with

inflation pressures and stay within

the instructions provided in this

the load limits and weight distribution

manual. Severe underinflation

recommended for your vehicle.

(10 psi (70 kPa) or more) can

lead to severe heat build-up,

causing blowouts, tread separa-

Recommended cold tire infla-

tion and other tire failures that

tion pressures

can result in the loss of vehicle

All tire pressures

(including the

ODE086006L

control. This risk is much higher

on hot days and when driving

spare) should be checked when the

All specifications

(sizes and pres-

tires are cold. “Cold Tires” means the

sures) can be found on a label

for long periods at high speeds.

vehicle has not been driven for at

attached to the driver’s side center

least three hours or driven less than

pillar.

1 mile (1.6 km).

Recommended pressures must be

maintained for the best ride, top vehi-

cle handling, and minimum tire wear.

For recommended inflation pressure

refer to “Tires and wheels” in chapter

Maintenance

•

Underinflation also results in

Tire pressure

Checking tire inflation pres-

excessive wear, poor handling and

sure

Always observe the following:

reduced fuel economy. Wheel

• Check tire pressure when the tires

Check your tires once a month or

deformation also is possible. Keep

more.

your tire pressures at the proper

are cold. (After vehicle has been

parked for at least three hours or

Also, check the tire pressure of the

levels. If a tire frequently needs

refilling, have it checked by an

hasn't been driven more than 1

spare tire.

mile (1.6 km) since startup.)

authorized Kia dealer.

•

Overinflation produces a harsh

• Check the pressure of your spare

How to check

tire each time you check the pres-

ride, excessive wear at the center

Use a good quality gauge to check

of the tire tread, and a greater pos-

sure of other tires.

tire pressure. You cannot tell if your

sibility of damage from road haz-

• Never overload your vehicle. Be

tires are properly inflated simply by

ards.

careful not to overload a vehicle

looking at them. Radial tires may

luggage rack if your vehicle is

•

Warm tires normally exceed rec-

look properly inflated even when

equipped with one.

ommended cold tire pressures by 4

they're underinflated.

6 psi (28 to 41 kPa). Do not

Check the tire's inflation pressure

release air from warm tires to

when the tires are cold.

- "Cold"

WARNING - Tire Inflation

adjust the pressure or the tires will

means your vehicle has been sitting

be underinflated.

Overinflation or underinflation

for at least three hours or driven no

can reduce tire life, adversely

•

Be sure to reinstall the tire inflation

more than 1 mile (1.6 km).

affect vehicle handling, and

valve caps. Without the valve cap,

lead to sudden tire failure. This

dirt or moisture could get into the

could result in loss of vehicle

valve core and cause air leakage. If

control and potential injury.

a valve cap is missing, install a

new one as soon as possible.

Maintenance

Remove the valve cap from the tire

•

Inspect your tires frequently for

Tire rotation

valve stem. Press the tire gauge firm-

proper inflation as well as wear and

To equalize tread wear, it is recom-

ly onto the valve to get a pressure

damage. Always use a tire pres-

mended that the tires be rotated

measurement. If the cold tire inflation

sure gauge.

every 8,000 miles

(13,000 km) or

pressure matches the recommended

•

Tires with too much or too little

sooner if irregular wear develops.

pressure on the tire and loading

pressure wear unevenly causing

information label, no further adjust-

During rotation, check the tires for

poor handling, loss of vehicle con-

correct balance.

ment is necessary. If the pressure is

trol, and sudden tire failure leading

low, add air until you reach the rec-

When rotating tires, check for uneven

to accidents, injuries, and even

ommended amount.

wear and damage. Abnormal wear is

death. The recommended cold tire

If you overfill the tire, release air by

pressure for your vehicle can be

usually caused by incorrect tire pres-

sure, improper wheel alignment, out-

pushing on the metal stem in the

found in this manual and on the tire

center of the tire valve. Recheck the

label located on the driver's side

of-balance wheels, severe braking or

severe cornering. Look for bumps or

tire pressure with the tire gauge. Be

center pillar.

sure to put the valve caps back on

bulges in the tread or side of tire.

•

Remember to check the pressure

Replace the tire if you find either of

the valve stems. They help prevent

of your spare tire. Kia recommends

leaks by keeping out dirt and mois-

these conditions. Replace the tire if

that you check the spare every

fabric or cord is visible. After rotation,

ture.

time you check the pressure of the

be sure to bring the front and rear tire

other tires on your vehicle.

pressures to specification and check

lug nut tightness.

Refer to “Tires and wheels” in chap-

ter 8.

Maintenance

Without a spare tire

Disc brake pads should be inspected

Wheel alignment and tire bal-

for wear whenever tires are rotated.

ance

Rotate radial tires that have an

The wheels on your vehicle were

asymmetric tread pattern only from

aligned and balanced carefully at the

front to rear and not from right to left.

factory to give you the longest tire life

and best overall performance.

WARNING - Mixing tires

In most cases, you will not need to

have your wheels aligned again.

• Do not use the compact spare

However, if you notice unusual tire

tire (if equipped) for tire rota-

S2BLA790A

wear or your vehicle pulling one way

tion.

Directional tires (if equipped)

or the other, the alignment may need

• Do not mix bias ply and radial

to be reset.

ply tires under any circum-

If you notice your vehicle vibrating

stances. This may cause

when driving on a smooth road, your

unusual handling characteris-

wheels may need to be rebalanced.

tics.

CAUTION - Wheel weight

Improper wheel weights can

damage your vehicle's alu-

CBGQ0707A

minum wheels. Use only

approved wheel weights.

Maintenance

Tire replacement

The ABS works by comparing the

Wheel replacement

speed of the wheels. The tire size

When replacing the metal wheels for

affects wheel speed. When replacing

any reason, make sure the new

tires, all 4 tires must use the same

wheels are equivalent to the original

size originally supplied with the vehi-

factory units in diameter, rim width

cle. Using tires of a different size can

and offset.

cause the ABS

(Anti-lock Brake

A wheel that is not the correct size

System) and ESC

(Electronic

Stability Control) to work irregularly.

may adversely affect wheel and

bearing life, braking and stopping

abilities, handling characteristics,

✽ NOTICE

ground clearance, body-to-tire clear-

• We recommend that when replac-

ance, snow chain clearance,

OUM076204L

ing tires, use the same which were

speedometer and odometer calibra-

originally supplied with the vehi-

tion, headlight aim and bumper

If the tire is worn evenly, a tread wear

cle. If not, driving performance

height.

Indicator (A) will appear as a solid

could be altered.

band across the tread. This shows

• When replacing tires (or wheels),

there is less than 1/16 inch (1.6 mm)

it is recommended to replace the

of tread left on the tire. Replace the

two front or two rear tires

(or

tire when this happens.

wheels) as a pair.

Do not wait for the band to appear

Replacing just one tire can serious-

across the entire tread before replac-

ly affect your vehicle's handling.

ing the tire.

Maintenance

Tire traction

Tire sidewall labeling

CAUTION

- Wheel

Tire traction can be reduced if you

Wheels that do not meet Kia's

drive on worn tires, tires that are

specifications may fit poorly

improperly inflated or on slippery

and result in damage to the

road surfaces. Tires should be

vehicle or unusual handling and

replaced when tread wear indicators

poor vehicle control.

appear. Slow down whenever there

is rain, snow or ice on the road, to

reduce the possibility of losing con-

trol of the vehicle.

Tire maintenance

OJF085008L

In addition to proper inflation, correct

wheel alignment helps to decrease

This information identifies and

tire wear. If you find a tire is worn

describes the fundamental charac-

unevenly, have your dealer check the

teristics of the tire and also provides

wheel alignment.

the tire identification number

(TIN)

for safety standard certification. The

When you have new tires installed,

TIN can be used to identify the tire in

make sure they are balanced. This

case of a recall.

will increase vehicle ride comfort and

tire life. Additionally, a tire should

always be rebalanced if it is removed

1. Manufacturer or brand name

from the wheel.

Manufacturer or Brand name is

shown.

Maintenance

2. Tire size designation

Example tire size designation:

Wheel size designation

A tire’s sidewall is marked with a tire

(These numbers are provided as an

Wheels are also marked with impor-

size designation. You will need this

example only; your tire size designa-

tant information that you need if you

information when selecting replace-

tor could vary depending on your

ever have to replace one. The follow-

ment tires for your car. The following

vehicle.)

ing explains what the letters and

explains what the letters and num-

numbers in the wheel size designa-

P205/55R16 89H

bers in

the

tire

size

designation

tion mean.

mean.

P - Applicable vehicle type

(tires

marked with the prefix “P’’ are

Example wheel size designation:

intended for use on passenger

vehicles or light trucks; however,

6.0JX16

not all tires have this marking).

205 - Tire width in millimeters.

6.0 - Rim width in inches.

55 - Aspect ratio. The tire’s section

J - Rim contour designation.

height as a percentage of its

16 - Rim diameter in inches.

width.

R - Tire construction code (Radial).

16 - Rim diameter in inches.

89 - Load Index, a numerical code

associated with the maximum

load the tire can carry.

H - Speed Rating Symbol. See the

speed rating chart in this section

for additional information.

Maintenance

Tire speed ratings

3. Checking tire life (TIN : Tire

Identification Number)

WARNING - Tire age

The chart below lists many of the dif-

ferent speed ratings currently being

Any tires that are over 6 years old,

Replace tires within the recom-

used for passenger vehicles. The

based on the manufacturing date,

mended time frame. Failure to

speed rating is part of the tire size

(including the spare tire) should be

replace tires as recommended

designation on the sidewall of the

replaced by new ones. You can find

can result in sudden tire failure,

tire. This symbol corresponds to that

the manufacturing date on the tire

which could lead to a loss of

tire's designed maximum safe oper-

sidewall (possibly on the inside of the

control and an accident.

ating speed.

wheel), displaying the DOT Code.

The DOT Code is a series of num-

Speed

bers on a tire consisting of numbers

4. Tire ply composition and mate-

Rating

Maximum Speed

and English letters. The manufactur-

rial

Symbol

ing date is designated by the last four

The number of layers or plies of rub-

digits (characters) of the DOT code.

112 mph (180 km/h)

ber-coated fabric in the tire. Tire

manufacturers also must indicate the

118 mph (190 km/h)

DOT : XXXX XXXX OOOO

materials in the tire, which include

130 mph (210 km/h)

steel, nylon, polyester, and others.

The front part of the DOT means a

149 mph (240 km/h)

The letter "R" means radial ply con-

plant code number, tire size and

Above 149 mph (240 km/h)

struction; the letter "D" means diago-

tread pattern and the last four num-

nal or bias ply construction; and the

bers indicate week and year manu-

letter "B" means belted-bias ply con-

factured.

struction.

For example:

DOT XXXX XXXX 1621 represents

that the tire was produced in the 16th

week of 2021.

Maintenance

5. Maximum permissible inflation

Tread wear

Tires degrade over time, even when

pressure

they are not being used. Regardless

The tread wear grade is a compara-

of the remaining tread, we recom-

This number is the greatest amount of

tive rating based on the wear rate of

mend that tires be replaced after

air pressure that should be put in the

the tire when tested under controlled

approximately six (6) years of normal

tire. Do not exceed the maximum per-

conditions on a specified govern-

service. Heat caused by hot climates

missible inflation pressure. Refer to

ment test course. For example, a tire

or frequent high loading conditions

the Tire and Loading Information label

graded 150 would wear one-and-a-

can accelerate the aging process.

for recommended inflation pressure.

half times (1½) as well on the gov-

ernment course as a tire graded 100.

These grades are molded on the

The relative performance of tires

side-walls of passenger vehicle tires.

6. Maximum load rating

The tires available as standard or

depends upon the actual conditions

This number indicates the maximum

optional equipment on your vehicles

of their use, however, and may

load in kilograms and pounds that can

may vary with respect to grade.

depart significantly from the norm

be carried by the tire. When replacing

due to variations in driving habits,

the tires on the vehicle, always use a

service practices and differences in

tire that has the same load rating as

road characteristics and climate.

the factory installed tire.

7. Uniform Tire Quality Grading

Quality grades can be found where

applicable on the tire sidewall

between tread shoulder and maxi-

mum section width.

For example:

Treadwear 200

Traction AA

Temperature A

Maintenance

Traction - AA, A, B & C

Temperature -A, B & C

Tire terminology and defini-

The traction grades, from highest to

The temperature grades are A (the

tions

lowest, are AA, A, B and C. Those

highest), B and C representing the

Air Pressure: The amount of air

grades represent the tires ability to

tire’s resistance to the generation of

inside the tire pressing outward on

stop on wet pavement as measured

heat and its ability to dissipate heat

the tire. Air pressure is expressed in

under controlled conditions on spec-

when tested under controlled condi-

kilopascal

(kPa) or pounds per

ified government test surfaces of

tions on a specified indoor laboratory

square inch (psi).

asphalt and concrete. A tire marked

test wheel.

Accessory Weight: This means the

C may have poor traction perform-

Sustained high temperature can

combined weight of optional acces-

ance.

cause the material of the tire to

sories. Some examples of optional

The traction grade assigned to this

degenerate and reduce tire life, and

accessories are, dual clutch trans-

tire is based on straight-ahead brak-

excessive temperature can lead to

mission, power seats, and air condi-

ing traction tests, and does not

sudden tire failure. The grade C cor-

tioning.

include acceleration, cornering,

responds to a level of performance

Aspect Ratio: The relationship of a

hydroplaning, or peak traction char-

which all passenger car tires must

tire's height to its width.

acteristics.

meet under the Federal Motor

Vehicle Safety Standard No.

109.

Belt: A rubber coated layer of cords

Grades B and A represent higher

that is located between the plies and

levels of performance on the labora-

the tread. Cords may be made from

tory test wheel than the minimum

steel or other reinforcing materials.

required by law.

Bead: The tire bead contains steel

wires wrapped by steel cords that

hold the tire onto the rim.

Bias Ply Tire: A pneumatic tire in

which the plies are laid at alternate

angles less than 90 degrees to the

centerline of the tread.

Maintenance

Cold Tire Pressure: The amount of

GVWR: Gross Vehicle Weight Rating

Maximum Inflation Pressure: The

air pressure in a tire, measured in

maximum air pressure to which a

GAWR FRT: Gross Axle Weight

kilopascals

(kPa) or pounds per

cold tire may be inflated. The maxi-

Rating for the Front Axle.

square inch (psi) before a tire has

mum air pressure is molded onto the

GAWR RR: Gross Axle Weight

built up heat from driving.

sidewall.

Rating for the Rear axle.

Curb Weight: This means the weight

Maximum Load Rating: The load

Intended Outboard Sidewall: The

of a motor vehicle with standard and

rating for a tire at the maximum per-

side of an asymmetrical tire, that

optional equipment including the

missible inflation pressure for that

must always face outward when

maximum capacity of fuel, oil and

tire.

mounted on a vehicle.

coolant, but without passengers and

Maximum Loaded Vehicle Weight:

cargo.

Kilopascal (kPa): The metric unit for

The sum of curb weight; accessory

air pressure.

DOT Markings: A code molded into

weight; vehicle capacity weight; and

the sidewall of a tire signifying that

Light truck(LT) tire: A tire designat-

production options weight.

the tire is in compliance with the U.S.

ed by its manufacturer as primarily

Normal Occupant Weight: The

Department of Transportation motor

intended for use on lightweight trucks

number of occupants a vehicle is

vehicle safety standards. The DOT

or multipurpose passenger vehicles.

designed to seat multiplied by 150

code includes the Tire Identification

Load Index: An assigned number

lbs. (68kg).

Number (TIN), an alphanumeric des-

ranging from 1 to 279 that corre-

ignator which can also identify the

sponds to the load carrying capacity

tire manufacturer, production plant,

of a tire.

brand and date of production.

Load ratings: The maximum load

that a tire is rated to carry for a given

inflation pressure.

Maintenance

Occupant Distribution: Designated

Production options weight: The

Speed Rating: An alphanumeric

seating positions.

combined weight of installed regular

code assigned to a tire indicating the

production options weighing over 5

maximum speed at which a tire can

Outward Facing Sidewall: The side

lb.(2.3 kg) in excess of the standard

operate.

of a asymmetrical tire that has a par-

items which they replace, not previ-

ticular side that faces outward when

Traction: The friction between the

ously considered in curb weight or

mounted on a vehicle. The outward

tire and the road surface. The

accessory weight, including heavy

facing sidewall bears white lettering

amount of grip provided.

duty brakes, ride levelers, roof rack,

or bears manufacturer, brand, and/or

Tread: The portion of a tire that

heavy duty battery, and special trim.

model name molding that is higher or

comes into contact with the road.

deeper than the same moldings on

Recommended Inflation Pressure:

Treadwear Indicators: Narrow

the inner facing sidewall.

Vehicle manufacturer's recommend-

bands, sometimes called "wear

ed tire inflation pressure and shown

Passenger (P-Metric) Tire: A tire

bars," that show across the tread of a

on the tire placard.

used on passenger cars and some

tire when only

1/16 inch of tread

light duty trucks and multipurpose

Radial Ply Tire: A pneumatic tire in

remains.

vehicles.

which the ply cords that extend to the

UTQGS: Uniform Tire Quality

Ply: A layer of rubber-coated parallel

beads are laid at 90 degrees to the

Grading Standards, a tire information

centerline of the tread.

cords

system that provides consumers with

Rim: A metal support for a tire and

Pneumatic tire: A mechanical

ratings for a tire's traction, tempera-

upon which the tire beads are seat-

device made of rubber, chemicals,

ture and treadwear. Ratings are

ed.

fabric and steel or other materials,

determined by tire manufacturers

that, when mounted on an automo-

Sidewall: The portion of a tire

using government testing proce-

tive wheel, provides the traction and

between the tread and the bead.

dures. The ratings are molded into

contains the gas or fluid that sustains

the sidewall of the tire.

the load.

Vehicle Capacity Weight: The num-

ber of designated seating positions

multiplied by 150 lbs. (68kg) plus the

rated cargo and luggage load.

Maintenance

Vehicle Maximum Load on the

All season tires

Tire: Load on an individual tire due

WARNING

Kia specifies all season tires on

to curb and accessory weight plus

some models to provide good per-

Do not use summer tires at tem-

maximum occupant and cargo

peratures below 45°F (7°C) or

formance for use all year round,

weight.

including snowy and icy road condi-

when driving on snow or ice. At

Vehicle Normal Load on the Tire:

temperatures below 45°F (7°C),

tions. All season tires are identified

Load on an individual tire that is

by ALL SEASON and/or M+S (Mud

summer tires can lose elastici-

determined by distributing to each

ty, and therefore traction and

and Snow) on the tire sidewall. Snow

axle its share of the curb weight,

tires have better snow traction than

braking power as well. Change

accessory weight, and normal occu-

the tires on your vehicle to win-

all season tires and may be more

pant weight and driving by 2.

appropriate in some areas.

ter or all-weather tires of the

same size as the standard tires

Vehicle Placard: A label permanent-

of the vehicle. Both types of

ly attached to a vehicle showing the

Summer tires

tires are identified by the M+S

original equipment tire size and rec-

(Mud and Snow) marking. Using

ommended inflation pressure.

Kia specifies summer tires on some

summer tires at very cold tem-

models to provide superior perform-

peratures could cause cracks to

ance on dry roads. Summer tire per-

form, thereby damaging the

formance is substantially reduced in

tires permanently.

snow and ice. Summer tires do not

have the tire traction rating M+S

(Mud and Snow) on the tire side wall.

If you plan to operate your vehicle in

snowy or icy conditions, Kia recom-

mends the use of snow tires or all

season tires on all four wheels.

Maintenance

Snow tires

Tire chains

Radial-ply tires

If you equip your car with snow tires,

Tire chains, if necessary, should be

Radial-ply tires provide improved

they should be the same size and

installed on the front wheels.

tread life, road hazard resistance and

have the same load capacity as the

smoother high speed ride. The radi-

Be sure that the chains are installed

original tires. Snow tires should be

al-ply tires used on this vehicle are

in accordance with the manufactur-

installed on all four wheels; other-

of belted construction and are select-

er's instructions.

wise, poor handling may result.

ed to complement the ride and han-

To minimize tire and chain wear, do

dling characteristics of your vehicle.

Snow tires should carry 4 psi (28

not continue to use tire chains when

kPa) more air pressure than the

Radial-ply tires have the same load

they are no longer needed.

pressure recommended for the stan-

carrying capacity as bias-ply or bias

•

When driving on roads covered

dard tires on the tire label on the dri-

belted tires of the same size and use

with snow or ice, drive at less than

ver's side of the center pillar, or up to

the same recommended inflation

20 mph (30 km/h).

the maximum pressure shown on the

pressure. Mixing of radial-ply tires

tire sidewall, whichever is less.

•

Use the SAE “S” class or wire

with bias-ply or bias belted tires is

chains.

not recommended. Any combina-

Do not drive faster than 75 mph (120

•

If you hear noise caused by chains

tions of radial-ply and bias-ply or bias

km/h) when your vehicle is equipped

contacting the body, retighten the

belted tires when used on the same

with snow tires.

chain to avoid contact with the

vehicle will seriously deteriorate

vehicle body.

vehicle handling. The best rule to fol-

low is: identical radial-ply tires should

•

To prevent body damage, retighten

always be used as a set of four.

the chains after driving

0.3~0.6

miles (0.5~1.0 km).

•

Do not use tire chains on vehicles

equipped with aluminum wheels.

In unavoidable circumstances, use

a wire type chain.

•

Use wire chains less than

0.47

inches (12 mm) to prevent damage

to the chain’s connection.

Maintenance

Longer wearing tires can be more

Low aspect ratio tire

susceptible to irregular tread wear. It

(if equipped)

CAUTION

is very important to follow the tire

Because the sidewall of the low

Low aspect ratio tires, whose aspect

rotation interval shown in this section

aspect ratio tire is shorter than

ratio is lower than 50, are provided

to achieve the tread life potential of

the normal, the wheel and tire of

for sporty looks.

these tires. Cuts and punctures in

the low aspect ratio tire is easi-

radial-ply tires are repairable only in

Because the low aspect ratio tires

er to be damaged. So, follow the

the tread area, because of sidewall

are optimized for handling and brak-

instructions below.

flexing. Consult your tire dealer for

ing, it may be more uncomfortable to

• When driving on a rough road

radial-ply tire repairs.

ride in and there is more noise com-

or off road, drive cautiously

pare with normal tires.

because tires and wheels may

be damaged. And after driv-

ing, inspect tires and wheels.

•

When passing over a pothole,

speed bump, manhole, or curb

stone, drive slowly so that the

tires and wheels are not dam-

aged.

•

If the tire is impacted, we rec-

ommend that you inspect the

tire condition or contact an

authorized Kia dealer.

•

To prevent damage to the tire,

inspect the tire condition and

pressure every

1,900 miles

(3,000 km).

Maintenance

FUSES

■ Blade type

A vehicle’s electrical system is pro-

tected from electrical overload dam-

WARNING - Fuse replace-

age by fuses.

ment

This vehicle has 2 (or 3) fuse panels,

•

Never replace a fuse with any-

one located in the driver’s side panel

thing but another fuse of the

bolster, the other in the engine com-

same rating.

■ Cartridge type

partment near the battery.

•

A higher capacity fuse could

If any of your vehicle’s lights, acces-

cause damage and possibly a

sories, or controls do not work, check

fire.

the appropriate circuit fuse. If a fuse

•

Never install a wire or alu-

has blown, the element inside the

minum foil instead of the

fuse will melt.

proper fuse - even as a tem-

■ Multi fuse

If the electrical system does not

porary repair. It may cause

work, first check the driver’s side

extensive wiring damage and

fuse panel.

a possible fire.

Always replace a blown fuse with

one of the same rating.

• Do not arbitrarily modify or add-on

If the replacement fuse blows, this

electric wiring to the vehicle.

■ BFT

indicates an electrical problem. Avoid

using the system involved and imme-

diately consult an authorized Kia

CAUTION

dealer.

Do not use a screwdriver or any

Three kinds of fuses are used: blade

other metal object to remove

type for lower amperage rating, car-

fuses because it may cause a

tridge type, and multi fuse for higher

short circuit and damage the

amperage ratings.

system.

OJF075021

❈ Left side : Normal , Right side : Blown

Kia Niro Hybrid / Plug-in Hybrid (2022 year). Manual in english - page 19