Kia Optima: Removing the Spare Tire

Turn the tire hold-down wing bolt counterclockwise. Store the tire in the reverse order of removal.

To prevent the jack, jack handle, and tool bag from “rattling” while the vehicle is in motion, store them properly.

Important — Use of Compact Spare Tire

Your vehicle is equipped with a compact spare tire. This compact spare tire takes up less space than a regular-size tire. This tire is smaller than a conventional tire and is designed for temporary use only.

CAUTION

• You should drive carefully when the compact spare is in use. The compact spare should be replaced by the proper conventional tire and rim at the first opportunity.
• The operation of this vehicle is not recommended with more than one compact spare tire in use at the same time.

CAUTION

This spare tire should be used only for VERY short distances. Compact spares should NEVER be used for long drives or extended distances.

The compact spare (if equipped) should be inflated to 60 psi (415 kPa).

✻ NOTICE

Check the inflation pressure after installing the spare tire. Adjust it to the specified pressure, as necessary.

When using a compact spare tire, observe the following precautions:

• Under no circumstances should you exceed 80 km/h (50 mph); a higher speed could damage the tire.
• Ensure that you drive slowly enough for the road conditions to avoid all hazards. Any road hazard, such as a pothole or debris, could seriously damage the compact spare.
• Any continuous road use of this tire could result in tire failure, loss of vehicle control, and possible personal injury.
• Do not exceed the vehicle’s maximum load rating or the load-carrying capacity shown on the sidewall of the compact spare tire.
• Avoid driving over obstacles. The compact spare tire diameter is smaller than the diameter of a conventional tire and reduces the ground clearance approximately 25 mm (1 in.), which could result in damage to the vehicle.
• Do not take this vehicle through an automatic car wash.
• Do not use tire chains on this tire. Because of the smaller size, a tire chain will not fit properly. This could damage the vehicle and result in loss of the chain.
• This tire should not be installed on the front axle if the vehicle must be driven in snow or on ice.
• Do not use the compact spare tire on any other vehicle because this tire has been designed especially for your vehicle.
• The compact spare’s tread life is shorter than a regular tire. Inspect your compact spare tire regularly and replace worn compact spare tires with the same size and design, mounted on the same wheel.