Subaru Forester: Controls and features / Climate control system

The climate control system helps heat, cool, ventilate, and dehumidify the Kia Telluride cabin so the driver and passengers can remain comfortable in a variety of weather conditions.

System operation

Ventilation

  1. Set the air flow mode to Kia Telluride ventilation mode icon.

  2. Set the air intake control to the outside air position.

  3. Adjust the temperature control to the desired position.

  4. Set the fan speed control to the preferred airflow level.

Heating

  1. Set the mode to Kia Telluride floor heating mode icon.

  2. Set the air intake control to outside air.

  3. Move the temperature control to the desired heat setting.

  4. Set the fan speed control to the airflow level you prefer.

  5. For dehumidified heating, switch the air conditioning system ON.

    If the windshield begins to fog, set the mode to Kia Telluride defrost mode icon or Kia Telluride defrost and floor mode icon.

Heating system operation tips

  • To temporarily prevent dust, smoke, or unpleasant outside odors from entering the Kia Telluride through the ventilation system, switch the air intake control to recirculated air. Once the irritation has passed, return the system to outside air intake to maintain fresh airflow inside the cabin.

  • The climate control system draws outside air through the grille located at the base of the windshield. Keep this area clear of leaves, snow, ice, and other obstructions so air can flow properly into the system.

  • To help prevent fog from forming on the inside of the windshield:

    • Set the air intake control to outside air and choose the desired fan speed.

    • Turn on the air conditioning system and set the temperature control to the desired level.

Air conditioning (A/C)

Kia A/C systems use R-1234yf refrigerant and are designed to cool and dehumidify the cabin when operated correctly.

  1. Start the vehicle, then press the A/C button.

  2. Set the mode to Kia Telluride air conditioning vent mode icon.

  3. Select either outside air or recirculated air using the air intake control.

  4. Adjust the fan speed and temperature controls to the desired comfort level.

CAUTION

  • The refrigerant system must be serviced only by trained and certified technicians to ensure safe handling and proper system operation.

  • Refrigerant system service should be performed in a well-ventilated area.

  • The air conditioning evaporator, also known as the cooling coil, must never be repaired or replaced with a component removed from a used or salvaged vehicle. Replacement Mobile Air Conditioning (MAC) evaporators must be certified and labeled as meeting SAE Standard J2842.

NOTE

Excessive air conditioning use

When using the A/C system in high outside temperatures, monitor the temperature gauge closely while driving uphill or in heavy traffic. Air conditioning operation may increase engine load and could contribute to overheating. If the temperature gauge shows overheating, you may continue using the blower fan, but turn the A/C system off.

NOTE

To help prevent condensation from forming inside the Kia Telluride and potentially damaging electrical components, operate the A/C system only with the windows and sunroof closed.

A/C system operation tips

  • If the vehicle has been parked in direct sunlight during hot weather, open the windows briefly before using the air conditioning. This allows trapped hot air to escape and helps the cabin cool more efficiently.

  • On rainy or humid days, operating the air conditioning system helps reduce moisture inside the cabin and can reduce window fogging.

  • During air conditioning operation, you may notice a slight change in vehicle speed as the A/C compressor cycles. This is a normal operating condition.

  • Run the A/C system for a few minutes each month to help maintain proper system performance.

  • When the A/C system is operating, clear water may drip or form a small puddle under the passenger side of the vehicle. This is normal condensation from the cooling process.

  • Using the A/C system with recirculated air provides maximum cooling, but using recirculated air for an extended time may cause the cabin air to feel stale.

  • When the A/C system rapidly cools humid incoming air, a light mist may occasionally appear from the vents. This is a normal condition and does not indicate a malfunction.

Climate control air filter

The climate control air filter helps remove dust, pollen, and other airborne pollutants from outside air before they enter the Kia Telluride cabin through the ventilation system. Over time, these particles can build up inside the filter and restrict airflow from the vents. Reduced airflow may also allow moisture to collect on the inside of the windshield, even when the fresh air intake mode is selected.

When airflow becomes weak, odors appear, or windshield moisture is difficult to clear, replace the climate control air filter. If replacing the filter yourself is difficult, have the filter replaced by an authorized Kia dealer. For replacement instructions, refer to the Climate control air filter section.

NOTE

Replace the climate control air filter according to the Maintenance Schedule. If the filter is not replaced regularly, airflow may decrease, heating and cooling performance may be reduced, and unpleasant odors may enter the Kia Telluride cabin.

TIP

If airflow from the vents suddenly decreases, have the vehicle inspected by an authorized Kia dealer.

Air conditioning (A/C) refrigerant label

Kia Telluride air conditioning refrigerant label under the hood

The A/C refrigerant label installed in your vehicle may look different from the illustration shown here.

The symbols and specifications shown on the A/C refrigerant label are identified as follows:

  1. Caution

  2. Refrigerant classification

  3. Compressor lubricant classification

  4. Flammable refrigerant

  5. The A/C system must be serviced by a registered technician

  6. Refrigerant quantity

The refrigerant label is located underneath the hood.

For more details about the exact location of the air conditioning refrigerant label, refer to the Refrigerant label section.

Checking the amount of air conditioner (A/C) refrigerant and compressor lubricant

Low refrigerant can reduce A/C cooling performance, while too much refrigerant can also negatively affect system operation. Correct refrigerant and compressor lubricant levels are essential for reliable air conditioning performance in the Kia Telluride.

If the A/C system operates abnormally, have the vehicle inspected by an authorized Kia dealer.

WARNING

The oil and refrigerant inside the vehicle’s A/C system are under extremely high pressure. If proper service procedures are not followed, an explosion may occur. To reduce the risk of serious injury or death, the A/C system should only be serviced by trained and certified Kia technicians.

WARNING

Vehicles equipped with R-1234yf

Kia Telluride R-1234yf air conditioning refrigerant warning symbol

Because this refrigerant is mildly flammable and operates under high pressure, the air conditioning system must be serviced only by trained and certified technicians. Refer to SAE J2845.

Always use the correct type and amount of oil and refrigerant. All refrigerants must be recovered using proper equipment. Releasing refrigerant directly into the atmosphere is harmful to people and the environment. Failure to follow these warnings may result in serious injury.

NOTE

Using the correct type and amount of oil and refrigerant is essential. Incorrect service materials or quantities may damage the vehicle. To prevent damage, the A/C system should only be serviced by trained and certified technicians.

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