auto awd question

[mbavers]

I know this is the wrong place, but I don't know where else to go. I tried the Kia forum but can't navigate it! I have a 2008 Kia Sportage. The HECU (which controls ABS and AWD) is bad. There is a recall on it and I have to drive 240 miles to the dealer.
The AWD symbol (schematic showing axle and wheels) is flashing green, indicating that I don't have AWD working. My question is, if I drive it like this will I do any damage to the AWD system. I would think that since it is flashing green (rather than amber like the ABS symbol) it should be OK to drive, but I don't want to break anything. Any info would be appreciated.

 

[fast_st]

Not likely harmful but if its under a recall and acting up, call the dealer and ask, they may send a ramp out to pick it up and maybe be nice enough to drop off a rental car!

 

[mbavers]

Thanks for the reply. Yeah, I called KIA and am waiting for them to call back. I have a feeling I'll be driving to the dealer.

 

[Spud_Monkey]

Get a Subaru and call it a day.

 

[KSSS]

I also agree it wont likely damage anything, you just wont have 4X4. It is likely just an actuator failing. I doubt you will get Kia to pick it up in Homer, Alaska but if they do let us know!

 

[mbavers]

Get a Subaru and call it a day.

Yes, there are a lot of Subarus in AK, and most of them more than 5 years old need new head gaskets!

 

[mbavers]

I also agree it wont likely damage anything, you just wont have 4X4. It is likely just an actuator failing. I doubt you will get Kia to pick it up in Homer, Alaska but if they do let us know!

KIA just called me and said they might be sending a technician out to me. I was dumbfounded, as it is a 5 1/2 hour drive one way from Anchorage, but they said they do it all the time in AK.

 

[heymccall]

Recall says risk of fire. Doesnt indicate a "stop driving", like some recalls on other vehicles have.
https://www.autoblog.com/buy/2008-Kia-Sportage/recalls/

 

[mbavers]

Recall says risk of fire. Doesnt indicate a "stop driving", like some recalls on other vehicles have.
https://www.autoblog.com/buy/2008-Kia-Sportage/recalls/View attachment 192828

Yes, I believe your interpretation is correct. I told them I could drive to the dealer, but they seem intent on sending someone out. They're probably afraid of liability in the event of fire.