2008 KIA Sorento ESP

423
Driving your vehicle
Parking on curbed streets
• When parking your vehicle on an uphill
grade, park as close to the curb as
possible and turn the front wheels
away from the curb so that the front
wheels will contact the curb if the vehi-
cle moves backward.
• When parking your vehicle on a down-
hill grade, park as close to the curb as
possible and turn the front wheels
toward the curb so that the front
wheels will contact the curb if the vehi-
cle moves forward.
Anti-lock brake system (ABS)
(if equipped)The ABS system continuously senses
the speed of the wheels. If the wheels are
going to lock, the ABS system repeated-
ly modulates the hydraulic brake pres-
sure to the wheels.
When you apply your brakes under con-
ditions which may lock the wheels, you
may hear a “tik-tik’’ sound from the
brakes, or feel a corresponding sensation
in the brake pedal. This is normal and it
means your ABS system is active.
In order to obtain the maximum benefit
from your ABS system in an emergency
situation, do not attempt to modulate
your brake pressure and do not try to
pump your brakes. Press your brake
pedal as hard as possible or as hard as
the situation warrants and allow the ABS
system to control the force being deliv-
ered to the brakes.
WARNING- ABS Brakes
Your ABS is not a substitute for
good driving judgement. You can
still have an accident. In fact, your
ABS system will not be able to pre-
vent an accident. You must espe-
cially avoid:
• Dangerous driving,such as
neglecting safety precautions,
speeding, or driving too close to
the vehicle in front of you.
• Driving at high speed in situa-
tions providing considerably less
traction,such as wet conditions
where hydroplaning could occur.
• Driving too fast on poor road sur-
faces. The ABS is designed to
improve maximum braking effec-
tiveness on typical highways and
roads in good condition. On poor
road surfaces, the ABS may actu-
ally reduce braking effectiveness.

433
Driving your vehicle
The rear parking assist system assists
the driver during backward movement of
the vehicle by chiming if any object is
sensed within a distance of 120 cm (47
in.) behind the vehicle. This system is a
supplemental system and it is not intend-
ed to nor does it replace the need for
extreme care and attention of the driver.
The sensing range and objects
detectable by the back sensors are limit-
ed. Whenever backing-up, pay as much
attention to what is behind you as you
would in a vehicle without a rear parking
assist system.
Operation of the rear parking
assist system
Operating condition
• This system will activate when backing
up with the ignition key ON.
If the vehicle is moved at speed over 5
km/h (3 mph), the system may not acti-
vated correctly.
• The sensing distance while the rear
parking assist system is in operation is
approximately 120 cm (47 in.).
• When more than two objects are
sensed at the same time, the closest
one will be recognized first.
Types of warning sound
• When an object is 120 cm to 81 cm (47
in. to 32 in.) from the rear bumper :
Buzzer beeps intermittently
• When an object is 80 cm to 41 cm (31
in. to 16 in.) from the rear bumper :
Buzzer beeps more frequently
• When an object is within 40 cm (15 in.)
of the rear bumper : Buzzer sounds
continuously.
REAR PARKING ASSIST SYSTEM (IF EQUIPPED)
OBL036002
WARNING
The rear parking assist system is a
supplementary function only. The
operation of the rear parking assist
system can be affected by several
factors (including environmental
conditions). It is the responsibility
of the driver to always check the
area behind the vehicle before
backing up.

435
Driving your vehicle
✽
NOTICE
If you don’t hear an audible warning
sound or if the buzzer sounds intermit-
tently when shifting the gear to “R” posi-
tion, this may indicate a malfunction in
the rear parking assist system. If this
occurs, have your vehicle checked by an
authorized Kia dealer as soon as possi-
ble.WARNING
Pay close attention when the vehi-
cle is driven close to objects on the
road, particularly pedestrians,
especially children. Be aware that
some objects may not be detected
by the sensors, due to the object’s
distance,size or material, all of
which can limit the effectiveness of
the sensor. Always perform a visual
inspection to make sure the vehicle
is clear of all obstructions before
moving the vehicle in any direction.
CAUTION
This system can only sense objects
within the range and location of the
sensors; It can not detect objects in
other areas where sensors are not
installed. Also,small or slim
objects,such as poles or objects
located between sensors may not
be detected by the sensors.
Always visually check behind the
vehicle when driving back up.
Be sure to inform any drivers in the
vehicle that may be unfamiliar with
the system regarding the systems
capabilities and limitations.
Your new vehicle warranty does not
cover any accidents or damage to
the vehicle or its occupants due to
rear parking assist system malfunc-
tion. Always drive safely and cau-
tiously.

453
Driving your vehicle
Lane change signals (B)
To signal a lane change, move the turn
signal lever slightly and hold it in position.
The lever will return to the OFF position
when released.
If an indicator stays on and does not
flash or if it flashes abnormally, one of the
turn signal bulbs may be burned out and
will require replacement.
✽
NOTICE
If an indicator flash is abnormally quick
or slow, bulb may be burned out or have
a poor electrical connection in the cir-
cuit.Front fog light (if equipped)
Fog lights are used to provide improved
visibility and avoid accidents when visibil-
ity is poor due to fog, rain or snow etc.
The fog lights will turn on when fog light
switch is turned to ON after the headlight
is turned on.
To turn off the fog lights, turn the switch
to OFF.
Daytime running light
(if equipped)
Daytime Running Lights (DRL) can make
it easier for others to see the front of your
vehicle during the day. DRL can be help-
ful in many different driving conditions,
and it is especially helpful after dawn and
before sunset.
The DRL system will make your high-
beam headlights turn OFF when:
1. The head light switch is ON.
2. The parking brake engaged.
3. Engine stops.
OBL046904N
CAUTION
When in operation, the fog lights
consume large amounts of vehicle
electrical power. Only use the fog
lights when visibility is poor.
Unnecessary battery and generator
drain could occur if the fog lights
are used excessively.

Driving tips
8 5
Driving at night
Because night driving presents more
hazards than driving in the daylight, here
are some important tips to remember:
• Slow down and keep more distance
between you and other vehicles, as it
may be more difficult to see at night,
especially in areas where there may
not be any street lights.
• Adjust your mirrors to reduce the glare
from other driver's headlights.
• Keep your headlights clean and prop-
erly aimed on vehicles not equipped
with the automatic headlight aiming
feature. Dirty or improperly aimed
headlights will make it much more diffi-
cult to see at night.
• Avoid staring directly at the headlights
of oncoming vehicles. You could be
temporarily blinded, and it will take
several seconds for your eyes to read-
just to the darkness.
Driving in the rain
Rain and wet roads can make driving
dangerous, especially if you’re not pre-
pared for the slick pavement. Here are a
few things to consider when driving in the
rain:
• A heavy rainfall will make it harder to
see and will increase the distance
needed to stop your vehicle, so slow
down.
• Keep your windshield wiping equip-
ment in good shape. Replace your
windshield wiper blades when they
show signs of streaking or missing
areas on the windshield.
• If your tires are not in good condition,
making a quick stop on wet pavement
can cause a skid and possibly lead to
an accident. Be sure your tires are in
good shape.
• Turn on your headlights to make it eas-
ier for others to see you.
• Driving too fast through large puddles
can affect your brakes. If you must go
through puddles, try to drive through
them slowly.
• If you believe you may have gotten
your brakes wet, apply them lightly
while driving until normal braking oper-
ation returns.WARNING- Spinning tires
Do not spin the wheels, especially
at speeds more than 56 km/h (35
mph). Spinning the wheels at high
speeds when the vehicle is station-
ary could cause a tire to overheat,
explode and injure bystanders.
CAUTION
The ESC system (if equipped)
should be turned OFF prior to rock-
ing the vehicle.

Driving tips
12 5
Driving on a hill ("4LO" for part-
time 4WD operation or "LOW" for
full-time 4WD operation)
• Use low gear when going uphill or
downhill and avoid sudden braking.
• Do not shift gears or use your clutch
when going downhill. Do not coast
downhill in Neutral.
Crossing a ditch ("4LO" for part-
time 4WD operation or "LOW" for
full-time 4WD operation)
• Avoid driving through ditches if possi-
ble, especially if there is water in the
ditch. Your vehicle may stall if the elec-
trical system gets wet. If you must
cross a ditch, select 4LO or LOW
mode.
• Avoid driving where the water level is
higher than the bottom of the wheel
hub. If the water level rises above this
mark, your vehicle will need to be serv-
iced.
• Tap lightly on the brake pedal during
and after driving through water. This
will help keep the brakes dry and in
proper working order.
• Do not shift gears while crossing a
ditch.
Tight corner brake effect
This is called tight corner brake effect.
Tight corner brake effect is a unique
characteristic of four-wheel drive vehicles
caused by the difference in tire rotation at
the four wheels and the zero-degree
alignment of the front wheels and sus-
pension.
Sharp turns at low speeds should be car-
ried out with caution.
WARNING -4WD
When turning sharply on a paved
road at low speed while in four-
wheel drive, steering control will be
difficult.

Driving tips
14 5
Traveling to remote areas
It makes sense to plan your trip, espe-
cially when going to a remote area. Know
the terrain and plan your route. You are
much less likely to encounter unwanted
surprises. Get accurate maps of trails.
It’s also a good idea to travel with at least
one other vehicle. If something happens
to one of them, the other can quickly
help.WARNING- Cargo
• Cargo piled close to the height of
(or higher than) the seat backs
can be thrown forward during a
sudden stop or on downhill
slopes. You or your passengers
could be severely injured. Keep
cargo below the top of the seat
backs and, if possible, do not pile
separate items.
• Unsecured cargo in the cargo
area can be tossed about when
driving on the highways or over
rough terrain. You or your passen-
gers can be struck by flying
objects and severely injured.
Secure the cargo properly.
(Continued)
(Continued)
• Cargo should not be carried on
the roof without a proper roof
rack installed. The roof rack will
hold a maximum of 45 kg (100
lbs.). Heavy loads in a roof rack
raise the vehicle’s center of grav-
ity, making it more likely to roll
over. You can be seriously or
fatally injured if the vehicle rolls
over. Do not load cargo on the
roof while driving off-road, if at all
possible. Put heavy loads inside
the cargo area, not on the roof or
in a roof rack. Keep cargo in the
cargo area as far forward and low
as possible.

515
Driving tips
Getting familiar with off-road driving
It’s necessary for you to practice in an
area that’s safe and close to home before
you begin serious off-road driving. Off-
road driving requires new and different
driving skills.
You need to tune your senses to different
kinds of signals. For example, constantly
sweep the terrain with your eyes looking
for unexpected obstacles. Listen for
unusual tire, gear, or engine sounds. Feel
and respond to the vibrations of the vehi-
cle with your hands, feet, and body while
still carefully controlling your vehicle.
You’ll also need to adjust your expecta-
tions and greatly lower the number of
miles you expect to cover in an hour or a
day.
Controlling your vehicle is the key to suc-
cessful off-road driving. One of the best
ways to control your vehicle is to control
your speed. Here are some things to
keep in mind when traveling at higher
speeds:
• You approach things faster and you
have less time to scan the terrain for
obstacles.• You have less time to react.
• You have much more vehicle bounce
when you drive over obstacles, giving
you less vehicle control.
• You’ll need more distance for braking,
especially since you’re on an unpaved
surface. Such terrain will always be
more “slippery” than a paved road.Scanning the terrain
Off-road driving can take you over many
different kinds of terrain. You need to be
familiar with the terrain and its many dif-
ferent features. Here are some things to
consider.
Surface conditions
Off-roading can take you over hard-
packed dirt, gravel, rocks, grass, sand,
mud, snow or ice. Each of these surfaces
affects the steering, acceleration, and
braking of your vehicle in different ways.
Depending upon the kind of surface you
are on, you may experience slipping,
sliding, wheel spinning, delayed acceler-
ation, poor traction, and longer braking
distances.
WARNING - Off road driv-
ing
When you’re driving off-road,
bouncing and quick changes in
direction can easily throw you out
of position in your seat. This could
cause you to lose control of the
vehicle and crash. Whether you are
driving on or off the road, you and
your passengers should always
wear safety belts.