Kia Sportage: How does the air bag system operate? / Noise and smoke
When inflated, the air bags make a loud noise and leave smoke and powder in the air inside the vehicle. This is normal and is a result of the ignition of the air bag inflator. After the air bag inflates, you may feel substantial discomfort in breathing due to the contact of your chest with both the seat belt and the air bag, as well as from breathing the smoke and powder. Open your doors and/or windows as soon as possible after impact in order to reduce discomfort and prevent prolonged exposure to the smoke and powder.
Though smoke and powder are nontoxic, it may cause irritation to the skin (eyes, nose and throat, etc). If this is the case, wash and rinse with cold water immediately and consult a doctor if the symptom persists.
WARNING - Hot components
Do not touch the air bag storage area's internal components immediately after airbag inflation. The air bag related parts in the steering wheel, instrument panel and the roof rails above the front and rear doors are very hot. Hot components can result in burn injuries.
WARNING
Do not install or place any accessories near air bag deployment areas, such as the instrument panel, windows, pillars, and roof rails. Such objects may become dangerous projectiles if the air bag deploys.
How does the air bag system operate?
Air bags are activated (able to inflate if necessary) only when the ignition
switch is turned to the ON or START position.
The appropriate air bags inflate instantly in the event of a serious ...
Do not install a child restraint on the front passenger’s seat
Never place a rear-facing child restraint in the front passenger’s seat. If the
air bag deploys, it would impact the rear-facing child restraint, causing serious
or fatal injury.
In addition, ...
Other information:
Kia Sportage QL (2015-2023) Owners Manual: Tire traction maintenance
Tire traction Tire traction can be reduced if you drive on worn tires, tires that are improperly inflated or on slippery road surfaces. Tires should be replaced when tread wear indicators appear. Slow down whenever there is rain, snow or ice on the road, to reduce the possibility of losing co ...
Kia Sportage QL (2015-2023) Service Manual: Parking Brake Repair procedures
Inspection Check whether the stroke is within specification when the parking brake pedal is depressed with 66 lb, 294 N(30 kg) of force. Also, the parking brake alone should securely hold the vehicle on a fairly steep grade. If the stroke is more or less than specified, have ...
