Motor Driven Power Steering (MDPS)
If the engine is off or if the power steering system becomes inoperative, the vehicle may still be steered, but it will require increased steering effort.
The MDPS is controlled by the power steering control unit which senses the steering wheel torque and vehicle speed to command the motor.
The steering effort becomes heavier as the vehicle's speed increases and becomes lighter as the vehicle's speed decreases for better control of the steering wheel.
Should you notice any change in the effort required to steer during normal vehicle operation, have the system checked by an authorized Kia dealer.
The following symptoms may occur during normal vehicle operation:
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When the ENGINE START/STOP button is the ON position, the steering wheel enters normal operation mode after diagnosing the Motor Driven Power Steering system (for about 3 seconds).
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A click noise may be heard from the MDPS relay after turning the ENGINE START/STOP button is turned to the ON or OFF position.
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If the steering wheel is operated when the vehicle is not in motion or driven at a low speed, you may hear some noise.
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If the Motor Driven Power Steering system does not operate normally, the warning light will appear or blink on the instrument cluster. If the power assistance of steering fails, you will need to use more force to steer. Take your vehicle to an authorized Kia dealer and have the vehicle checked as soon as possible.
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Operating the steering wheel at lower temperatures may require more force and accompany noise. However, when the temperature increases, it returns to normal.
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When the charging system warning light comes on due to the low voltage (when the alternator or battery does not operate normally or malfunctions), the steering wheel may require increased steering effort.
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When jump starting the vehicle after battery discharge, the steering wheel may not function properly. It is a temporary situation due to low battery voltage, and upon stable battery charging, the steering wheel will function normally again. Please move the steering wheel around to make sure the steering wheel is functioning properly before driving the vehicle.
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The steering effort can suddenly increase, if the operation of the MDPS system is stopped to prevent serious accidents when MDPS control unit detects malfunction of the MDPS system by self-diagnosis.
When you continuously operate the steering wheel, the overcurrent protection device is activated and it requires more force to operate the steering wheel. However, this doesn't indicate a malfunction, and it works for your safety and will return to normal after some time.
If the Motor Driven Power Steering (MDPS) system does not work or an error occurs, the warning light on the instrument panel may be turned on or blink and it may require more force to operate the steering wheel. In this case, please hold the steering wheel more tightly than usual and operate with greater force. And then immediately pull your vehicle over to a safe place and have your vehicle inspected by an authorized Kia dealer.