Kia Seltos SP2 (2021-2026) Owner's Manual / Driving your vehicle / All Wheel Drive (AWD) system / AWD mode

Kia Seltos: All Wheel Drive (AWD) system / AWD mode

Contents:

AWD transfer mode selection

AWD mode helps improve the driving performance of the Kia Seltos by controlling power delivery to all four wheels. This system supports better traction and stability when road conditions change, especially on wet, slippery, sandy, muddy, or uneven surfaces.

Kia Seltos AWD mode control switch and all wheel drive operation

You can switch from AWD AUTO mode to AWD Lock mode by pressing the AWD Lock mode switch. The selected mode should always match the current road surface and driving conditions.

AWD transfer mode selection

Transfer mode	Selection button	Indicator light	Description
AWD AUTO	-		AWD AUTO is intended for normal road driving, including city streets, paved suburban roads, and highways. In this mode, the Kia Seltos automatically manages traction between the front and rear wheels. The required driving force is adjusted according to road surface, speed, steering input, and overall driving conditions. When AWD Auto display mode is selected in the cluster, the display shows how traction force is being distributed to the four wheels. This mode is the best choice for everyday driving because it allows the system to respond automatically without unnecessary driver input.
AWD LOCK			The main purpose of AWD Lock mode is to help maximize traction in more demanding driving conditions, such as unpaved roads, sandy surfaces, muddy roads, or other low-grip areas. When AWD Lock mode is active, the cluster does not display the front and rear wheel traction force distribution status. Press the AWD Lock mode switch again to return the Kia Seltos to AWD AUTO mode. AWD Lock should be used only when extra traction is needed and should be released when normal road conditions return.

NOTICE

Normal road conditions

Keep the Kia Seltos in AWD AUTO mode when driving on normal paved roads.
When driving under normal road conditions, especially while cornering, AWD Lock mode may cause slight mechanical vibration or noise. This is a normal characteristic of the system and does not indicate a malfunction. Once AWD Lock mode is released, the noise or vibration should disappear.

NOTICE

AWD vehicles must be towed with all wheels off the ground, either on a flatbed tow truck or by using proper wheel dollies. This prevents unnecessary stress on the Kia Seltos AWD drivetrain.

CAUTION

The Kia Seltos AWD model should never be towed with the wheels directly on the ground. Improper towing can cause serious damage to the transmission, driveline components, or AWD system.

All Wheel Drive (AWD) system

For safe AWD operation

Other information:

Kia Seltos SP2 (2021-2026) Owner's Manual: Recommended lubricants and capacities

To help achieve proper engine performance, powertrain durability, and long-term reliability in the Kia Seltos, use only lubricants and fluids of the recommended quality and specification. Using the correct lubricants helps reduce engine friction, supports fuel efficiency, and protects important mechanical components from premature wear. The following lubricants and fluids are recommended for use in your Kia Seltos.

Kia Seltos SP2 (2021-2026) Owner's Manual: Emergency towing

If a professional towing service is not available during an emergency, your Kia Seltos may be temporarily towed using a suitable cable, chain, or towing strap attached only to the emergency towing hook located under the front or rear of the vehicle. Front Rear If towing is necessary, it is always best to have the Kia Seltos handled by an authorized Kia dealer or a professional commercial tow-truck service.