Kia Optima: Hazardous Driving Conditions

When hazardous driving conditions are encountered such as water, snow, ice, mud, sand, or similar hazards, follow these suggestions:

• Drive cautiously and allow extra distance for braking.
• Avoid sudden movements in braking or steering.
• When braking in the four-wheel drive mode (if equipped), pump the brake pedal with a light up-and-down motion until the vehicle is stopped.

✽ NOTICE

Do not pump the brake pedal on ABS equipped vehicles.

• If stalled in snow, mud, or sand, use second gear or shift the transfer case (if equipped) into four-wheel drive. Accelerate slowly to avoid spinning the drive wheels.
• Use sand, rock salt, tire chains, or other nonslip material under the drive wheels to provide traction when stalled in ice, snow, or mud. (If equipped, refer to “Using Four-Wheel Drive.’’)

WARNING - Downshifting

On slippery surfaces, downshifting can cause an accident. The sudden change in tire speed could cause the tires to skid. Be careful when downshifting on slippery surfaces. Try to drive slowly enough so you won’t have to make any sudden changes in gear or vehicle speed.