Kia Picanto: What to do in an emergency / If the engine overheats

If the temperature gauge indicates that the engine is overheating, you notice a loss of power, or hear a loud pinging or knocking sound, the engine may be too hot. Stop safely and follow these steps to reduce the risk of injury or further damage to your Kia Picanto:

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

2. Place the shift lever in P (Park) for an automatic transmission or in Neutral for a manual transmission, then apply the parking brake. If the air conditioning is operating, switch it off.

3. If engine coolant is flowing out from under the vehicle or steam is coming from beneath the bonnet, switch off the engine. Do not open the bonnet until the coolant has stopped flowing and the steam has cleared. If there is no visible coolant loss or steam, leave the engine running and check whether the engine cooling fan is operating. If the fan is not running, switch off the engine.

4. Check whether the water pump drive belt is missing. If it is still in place, check that it is tight.

   If the belt appears to be in good condition, look for coolant leaking from the radiator, hoses or underneath the vehicle. If the air conditioning has been operating, water draining from it after you stop is normal.

   WARNING

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

5. If the water pump drive belt is broken or engine coolant is leaking, switch off the engine immediately and contact a professional workshop. Kia recommends contacting an authorised Kia dealer or service partner.

   WARNING

   Never remove the radiator cap while the engine is hot. Pressurised coolant may escape through the opening and cause serious burns.

6. If you cannot identify the cause of the overheating, wait until the engine has cooled to its normal operating temperature. If coolant has been lost, carefully add coolant to the reservoir until the level reaches the halfway mark.

7. Continue driving cautiously and watch for any further signs of overheating. If the engine overheats again, contact a professional workshop. Kia recommends contacting an authorised Kia dealer or service partner.

   CAUTION

   • A significant loss of coolant indicates a leak in the cooling system. Have the system checked by a professional workshop. Kia recommends visiting an authorised Kia dealer or service partner.

   • If the engine has overheated because the coolant level is low, adding a large amount of coolant at once may cause cracks in the engine. Add coolant slowly, in small amounts, to reduce the risk of damage.