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 (2015-2026) Owners Manual: Scheduled maintenance service
Follow the Normal Maintenance Schedule if the vehicle is usually operated where none of the following conditions apply. If any of the following conditions apply, follow the Maintenance Under Severe Usage Conditions. Repeated driving short distance of less than 5 miles (8 km) in normal tem ...
Kia Sportage QL (2015-2026) Owners Manual: Snow tires
If you mount snow tires on your vehicle, make sure they are radial tires of the same size and load range as the original tires. Mount snow tires on all four wheels to balance your vehicle’s handling in all weather conditions. Keep in mind that the traction provided by snow tires on dry roads ...
