Kia EV6: Driving your vehicle / Snowy or icy conditions

When driving the Kia EV6 in deep snow or on icy roads, it may be necessary to equip the vehicle with winter tires or approved snow chains for additional traction.

If winter tires are installed, they should match the original tire size, load rating, and tire type specified for the Kia EV6. Using incorrect tire specifications may negatively affect vehicle handling, braking stability, and overall driving safety.

Rapid acceleration, sudden braking, excessive speed, and aggressive steering maneuvers are especially dangerous during snowy or icy conditions and should always be avoided.

When slowing the Kia EV6 on slippery roads, use smooth and progressive braking. Sudden brake application on snow or ice may cause the vehicle to skid or lose traction.

Always maintain a safe following distance from vehicles ahead during winter driving.

Installing tire chains may improve traction when starting or climbing hills in snow; however, tire chains cannot completely prevent side skids or loss of control on icy roads.

Because snow chain regulations vary by location, always check local and state laws before installing tire chains on the Kia EV6.

Snow tires

If snow tires are installed on the Kia EV6, make sure they are radial tires of the same size, construction type, and load range as the factory-installed tires.

For the best handling balance and traction performance, install winter tires on all four wheels.

Keep in mind that snow tires may provide reduced dry-road handling performance compared with the original Kia EV6 tires, so additional caution is recommended even when roads appear clear.

Always follow the tire manufacturer’s maximum speed recommendations for winter tires.

Before installing studded winter tires, verify all applicable state, local, and municipal regulations regarding their use, as restrictions may apply in certain areas.

WARNING

Tire chains

When tire chains are required on the Kia EV6, install them only on the rear tires.

Because radial tire sidewalls are thinner than traditional tire constructions, certain types of snow chains may damage the tires or wheels if installed incorrectly.

For this reason, winter tires are generally recommended instead of metal snow chains whenever possible.

Do not install snow chains on Kia EV6 models equipped with aluminum wheels unless the chain manufacturer specifically approves compatibility.

If tire chains must be used, fabric-style snow chains are recommended to help minimize the risk of wheel or suspension damage.

Damage caused by improper snow chain installation or usage is not covered by the Kia vehicle warranty.

Install tire chains only on the rear wheels of the Kia EV6.

After driving approximately 0.3-0.6 miles (0.5-1 km), stop and inspect the chains to ensure they remain properly attached and tightened. Re-tighten or reinstall the chains if necessary.

When installing tire chains, carefully follow the chain manufacturer’s instructions and secure the chains as tightly as possible.

Drive slowly with chains installed and keep vehicle speed below 20 mph (30 km/h), or below the maximum speed recommended by the chain manufacturer, whichever is lower.

If you hear the chains contacting the Kia EV6 body, suspension, or chassis components, stop immediately and tighten the chains.

If contact continues after adjustment, reduce driving speed further until the noise stops. Remove the chains immediately once road conditions improve and roads are cleared.

Before installing snow chains, park the Kia EV6 on a level surface away from traffic. Activate the hazard warning flashers and place an emergency warning triangle behind the vehicle if available.

Always shift the Kia EV6 into P (Park), apply the parking brake, and switch the vehicle off completely before installing tire chains.

• The use of tire chains may alter Kia EV6 handling characteristics and steering response.

• Never exceed 20 mph (30 km/h) while driving with chains installed.

• Drive cautiously and avoid potholes, bumps, sudden steering movements, and rough road hazards that may cause excessive vehicle movement.

• Avoid locked-wheel braking and sharp cornering maneuvers while chains are installed.

CAUTION

Use high quality ethylene glycol coolant

The Kia EV6 cooling system is filled with high-quality ethylene glycol coolant designed to help prevent freezing, corrosion, and premature wear within the cooling system.

This is the only recommended coolant type for the Kia EV6 because it also lubricates the water pump and protects cooling system components during extreme temperatures.

Always inspect, replenish, or replace coolant according to the Kia EV6 scheduled maintenance intervals.

Before winter begins, have the coolant mixture tested to ensure the freezing protection level is appropriate for expected temperatures.

Check 12V battery and cables

Cold weather places additional electrical load on the Kia EV6 12V battery system.

Inspect the 12V battery terminals, cables, and connections visually to ensure they remain clean, secure, and free from corrosion.

The battery charge condition can be tested by an authorized Kia dealer or qualified service facility.

To keep locks from freezing

To help prevent lock freezing during severe winter conditions, apply approved de-icer fluid or glycerin to the key cylinder openings.

If ice forms around the lock area, use an approved de-icing solution to remove the ice safely.

If the lock mechanism freezes internally, it may be possible to thaw it using a heated key. Handle heated objects carefully to avoid burns or injury.

Use approved window washer anti-freeze in system

To prevent washer fluid freezing during winter driving, fill the Kia EV6 washer reservoir with approved windshield washer anti-freeze fluid according to the instructions on the product container.

Approved washer anti-freeze fluid is available from authorized Kia dealers and most automotive parts suppliers.

Do not use engine coolant or other non-approved antifreeze products in the washer system, as these chemicals may damage paint surfaces and washer system components.

Don't let your parking brake freeze

Under certain winter conditions, the Kia EV6 parking brake may freeze in the engaged position.

This condition is more likely when snow, slush, ice, or water accumulates around the rear brake components.

If freezing conditions are expected, temporarily apply the parking brake only after placing the Kia EV6 in P (Park) and securing the rear wheels with wheel chocks or blocks.

After securing the vehicle, release the parking brake to reduce the risk of brake freezing.

Don't let ice and snow accumulate underneath

During severe winter driving, snow and ice may accumulate beneath the Kia EV6 around the wheel wells, steering components, suspension areas, or underbody panels.

Excessive buildup may interfere with steering movement or front wheel operation.

Periodically inspect underneath the Kia EV6 during severe winter conditions to ensure steering and suspension components move freely without obstruction.

Carry emergency equipment

Depending on expected weather conditions, always carry appropriate emergency supplies inside the Kia EV6 during winter travel.

Recommended emergency items may include tire chains, tow straps, jumper cables, flashlights, emergency flares, sand or traction material, a shovel, gloves, blankets, window scrapers, warm clothing, and additional winter safety equipment.