Electric Power Steering (EPS)
Power steering uses an electric motor to assist you in steering the vehicle.
If the vehicle is off or if the power steering system becomes inoperative, the vehicle may still be steered, but it will require increased steering effort.
Electric Power Steering 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 power steering checked by an authorized Kia dealer.
The following symptoms may occur during normal vehicle operation:
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The EPS warning light does not appear.
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The steering gets heavy immediately after turning the EV button in ON position. This happens as the system performs the EPS system diagnostics. When the diagnostics are completed, the steering wheel will return to its normal condition.
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A click noise may be heard from the EPS relay after turning the EV button in ON or OFF position.
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A motor noise may be heard when the vehicle is at a stop or at a low driving speed.
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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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If the vehicle needs to be jump started due to battery discharge, the steering wheel may not function normally. This is a temporary situation caused by low battery voltage. It will be solved once the battery is charged. Check for normal steering function by turning the steering wheel slowly before driving the vehicle.
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The steering effort can suddenly increase, if the operation of the EPS system is stopped to prevent serious accidents when EPS control unit detects malfunction of the EPS system by self-diagnosis.
If the Electric Power Steering system does not operate normally, the warning light will appear on the instrument cluster. The steering wheel may become difficult to control or operate abnormally. In this case, have the system inspected by an authorized Kia dealer.
When you operate the steering wheel in low temperature, the steering effort may be high and abnormal noise could occur. If temperature rises, the noise will disappear. This is a normal condition.
When the vehicle is stationary, and the steering wheel is turned all the way to the left or right continuously, the steering wheel becomes harder to turn. The power assist is limited to protect the motor from overheating.
As time passes, the steering wheel will return to its normal condition.