Kia Optima: Features of your vehicle / Steering wheel

Electric power steering (EPS)

The power steering uses an electric motor to assist you in steering the vehicle. 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 electric power steering is controlled by a power steering control unit which senses the steering wheel torque and vehicle speed to command the motor.

The steering becomes heavier as the vehicle’s speed increases and becomes lighter as the vehicle’s speed decreases for optimum steering control.

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.

• When you operate the steering wheel in low temperature, noise may occur. If temperature rises, the noise will likely 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.

✽ NOTICE

The following symptoms may occur during normal vehicle operation:

• The EPS warning light does not illuminate.
• The steering gets heavy immediately after turning the ignition switch on. This happens as the system performs the EPS system diagnostics. When the diagnostics are completed, the steering wheel will return to its normal condition.
• A click noise may be heard from the EPS relay after the ignition switch is turned to the ON or LOCK (OFF) position.
• A motor noise may be heard when the vehicle is at a stop or at a low driving speed.
• If the Electric Power Steering System does not operate normally, the warning light will illuminate on the instrument cluster. The steering wheel may become difficult to control or operate abnormally. Take your vehicle to an authorized Kia dealer and have the vehicle checked as soon as possible.
• When the charging system warning light comes on due to low voltage (when the alternator or battery do not operate normally or malfunction), the steering wheel may require increased steering effort.

• Tilt and telescopic steering
• Heated steering wheel
• Horn