Kia Telluride: Opening and closing / Liftgate
WARNING
Exhaust fumes
Never drive your Kia Telluride with the liftgate open unless it is absolutely necessary. An open liftgate can allow hazardous exhaust gases to enter the passenger compartment, creating a serious risk of injury or death.
If driving with the liftgate open cannot be avoided, keep all windows open and set the ventilation system to allow a continuous flow of fresh outside air into the cabin.
WARNING
Rear cargo area
The luggage compartment is not designed to carry passengers. Because there are no occupant restraint systems in this area, anyone riding in the cargo space could suffer severe injuries or death during sudden braking, sharp maneuvers, or a collision. Every occupant should always be seated and properly restrained.
Opening the liftgate
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If the liftgate is unlocked, press the exterior release handle and raise the liftgate to open it.
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The liftgate automatically locks and unlocks together with the rest of the vehicle whenever the doors are operated using the smart key or the central door lock switch.
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Pressing and holding the liftgate unlock button on the smart key for approximately one second unlocks only the liftgate.
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After the liftgate has been opened and then closed, it will automatically lock again provided all vehicle doors remain locked.
TIP
In cold or wet weather, ice may temporarily affect the operation of the liftgate lock and latch mechanism. If this occurs, allow the components to thaw before attempting to operate them.
WARNING
The liftgate opens upward with considerable movement. Before opening the liftgate on your Kia Telluride, ensure there are no people, vehicles, or overhead obstacles behind the vehicle.
NOTE
Liftgate gas lifters
Always confirm that the liftgate is completely closed before driving. Operating the vehicle with the liftgate partially open may place unnecessary stress on the gas struts and mounting hardware, potentially leading to damage.
Closing the liftgate
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Lower the liftgate carefully and press it downward until the latch engages securely. Before driving, verify that the liftgate is fully closed and locked.
WARNING
Before closing the liftgate, make certain that your hands, feet, clothing, and all other body parts are clear of the closing area to help prevent personal injury.
WARNING
Exhaust fumes
Always keep the liftgate completely closed whenever the Kia Telluride is in motion. Driving with the liftgate open or not fully latched may allow toxic exhaust gases to enter the passenger compartment, creating a serious health hazard.
NOTE
Before closing the liftgate, make sure no cargo, straps, or other objects interfere with the latch or striker. Closing the liftgate against an obstruction may damage the locking mechanism.
Emergency liftgate safety release
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If it becomes necessary to open the liftgate manually from inside the luggage compartment, follow these steps:
- Remove the access cover located at the bottom of the liftgate trim panel.
- Slide the emergency release latch in the direction indicated by the arrow to unlock the liftgate.
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Push the liftgate outward to open it.
WARNING
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Become familiar with the location and operation of the emergency liftgate release before an emergency occurs. Knowing how it works can be critical if someone becomes accidentally trapped inside the luggage compartment.
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No person or animal should ever ride inside the luggage compartment. The cargo area is not designed for passenger occupancy and can be extremely dangerous in the event of sudden braking or a collision.
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The emergency release latch is intended solely for emergency situations. Use it only when necessary and exercise extreme caution, particularly if the vehicle is moving.
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Limitations of the system
Digital Key 2 may not operate correctly under any of the following conditions: The smartphone battery or the Kia Telluride vehicle battery is discharged...
Power liftgate: (if equipped)
Power liftgate operating conditions The Kia Telluride power liftgate is designed to provide convenient access to the cargo area while maintaining safe operation...
Other information:
Kia Telluride (LQ2, 2027-2026) Owner's Manual: Warning lights
The warning lights in your Kia Telluride are designed to alert you whenever a system requires your immediate attention or when vehicle operation may be affected. Understanding these indicators helps you respond quickly and maintain safe driving conditions.
Kia Telluride (LQ2, 2027-2026) Owner's Manual: Vehicle handling instructions
As with any vehicle in this class, improper operation of the Kia Telluride may result in loss of vehicle control, a collision, or a rollover. The vehicle's higher ground clearance and other design characteristics provide a higher center of gravity than many conventional passenger cars.