Kia Soul: Driving your vehicle / Before driving
Before entering vehicle
- Be sure that all windows, outside mirror(s), and outside lights are clean.
- Check the condition of the tires.
- Check under the vehicle for any sign of leaks.
- Be sure there are no obstacles behind you if you intend to back up.
Necessary inspections
Fluid levels, such as engine oil, engine coolant, brake fluid, and washer fluid
should be checked on a regular basis, with the exact interval depending on the fluid.
Further details are provided in Chapter 8, Maintenance.
WARNING
Driving while distracted can result in a loss of vehicle control, that may
lead to an accident, severe personal injury, and death. The driver’s primary responsibility
is in the safe and legal operation of a vehicle, and use of any handheld devices,
other equipment, or vehicle systems which take the driver’s eyes, attention and
focus away from the safe operation of a vehicle or which are not permissible by
law should never be used during operation of the vehicle.
Before starting
- Close and lock all doors.
- Position the seat so that all controls are easily reached.
- Adjust the inside and outside rearview mirrors.
- Be sure that all lights work.
- Check all gauges.
- Check the operation of warning lights when the ignition switch is turned
to the ON position.
- Release the parking brake and make sure the brake warning light goes out.
For safe operation, be sure you are familiar with your vehicle and its equipment.
WARNING
All passengers must be properly belted whenever the vehicle is moving. Refer
to “Seat belts” on page 3-16 for more information on their proper use.
WARNING
Always check the surrounding areas near your vehicle for people, especially
children, before putting a vehicle into “D (Drive)” or “R (Reverse)”.
WARNING
Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
Drinking and driving is dangerous. Drunk driving is the number one contributor
to the highway death toll each year. Even a small amount of alcohol will affect
your reflexes, perceptions and judgement. Driving while under the influence
of drugs is as dangerous or more dangerous than driving drunk.
You are much more likely to have a serious accident if you drink or take drugs
and drive.
If you are drinking or taking drugs, don’t drive. Do not ride with a driver
who has been drinking or taking drugs. Choose a designated driver or call a cab.
WARNING
- When you intend to park or stop the vehicle with the engine on, be
careful not to depress the accelerator pedal for a long period of time. It may
overheat the engine or exhaust system and cause fire.
- When you make a sudden stop or turn the steering wheel rapidly, loose
objects may drop on the floor and it could interfere with the operation of the
foot pedals, possibly causing an accident. Keep all things in the vehicle safely
stored.
- If you do not focus on driving, it may cause an accident. Be careful
when operating what may disturb driving such as audio or heater. It is the responsibility
of the driver to always drive safely.
WARNING ENGINE EXHAUST CAN BE DANGEROUS! Engine exhaust fumes can be extremely dangerous. If, at any time, you smell exhaust fumes inside the vehicle, open the windows immediately. • Do not inhale exhaust ...
Ignition switch position LOCK The steering wheel locks to protect against theft. The ignition key can be removed only in the LOCK position. ACC (Accessory) The steering wheel is unlocked and electrical ...
Other information:
Your vehicle is equipped with the emergency tailgate safety release lever located on the bottom of the tailgate. If you have to open the tailgate urgently inside the tailgate due to battery discharge, external handle failure, or other reasons. The tailgate can be opened by doing as follows: 1. Input ...
Warning system precautions Reverse Parking Distance Warning system may not sound consistently depending on the speed and shapes of the objects detected. Reverse Parking Distance Warning system may malfunction if the vehicle bumper height or sensor installation has been modified or damaged. Any non-factory ...