Kia Telluride: Opening and closing / Hood

The hood provides access to the Kia Telluride engine compartment for routine inspections, fluid level checks, and scheduled maintenance.

Open the hood whenever engine compartment inspection or service work is required, and always make sure it is securely closed before driving.

Opening the hood

1. Pull the interior hood release lever. The hood will release from the primary latch and raise slightly.
2. Move to the front of the vehicle, lift the hood slightly, push the secondary hood release lever (1) to the left, and continue raising the hood.
3. Raise the unlocked hood fully until it remains securely in the open position.

Hood open warning

If the hood is not fully closed, the Kia Telluride displays a hood open warning message on the instrument cluster LCD display to alert the driver.

If you begin driving with the hood unlatched, a warning chime will sound once the vehicle reaches approximately 2 mph (3 km/h). Stop as soon as it is safe to do so and verify that the hood is completely closed and securely latched before continuing your drive.

Closing the hood

1. Before closing the hood, carefully inspect the engine compartment and verify the following:

   • All engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, washer fluid, and other filler caps are securely installed in their proper locations.

   • Gloves, cleaning cloths, tools, and any combustible or loose materials have been removed from the engine compartment.

2. Lower the hood until it is about halfway closed, then allow it to drop naturally so it latches securely. Avoid pressing down on the hood with excessive force.
3. Confirm that the hood is fully locked.

   If the hood can still be lifted slightly after closing, it has not engaged correctly. Open it again and repeat the closing procedure using slightly more force until it latches securely.

   WARNING

   Hood obstruction

   Before closing the hood, always make sure there are no tools, hands, clothing, or other objects within the hood opening. Closing the hood while an obstruction is present can result in serious personal injury or damage to the Kia Telluride.

   WARNING

   Fire risk

   Never leave gloves, rags, paper products, or other flammable materials inside the engine compartment. Engine heat may ignite these materials and create a fire hazard.

   WARNING

   Unsecured hood

   Always verify that the hood is completely latched before driving. An improperly secured hood could suddenly open while the vehicle is moving, blocking the driver's view and significantly increasing the risk of a collision.