Use Snow mode for slippery roads and reserve AWD Lock for difficult low-speed traction; the system returns to AWD Auto at about 25 mph or faster.
Check that your vehicle has it.
Verified for the 2025 U.S.-market Telluride when equipped with AWD and the described Snow/AWD Lock controls.
- Required equipment / service
- Telluride equipped with AWD, Snow mode and AWD Lock
Does the documented scope match your car?
This check combines the verified year, any source-supported powertrain scope, source-named trim/package and required equipment. It does not read a VIN or factory build record.
Published availability and qualifications
Verified for the 2025 U.S.-market Telluride when equipped with AWD and the described Snow/AWD Lock controls.
Know what kind of control to look for.
This original category diagram is an orientation aid, not a picture of your exact trim. Use the written labels and your vehicle manual to identify the real control.
Step by step.
- 01
Use AWD Auto for ordinary city streets, highways and dry pavement.
- 02
On snow or another slippery surface, turn the drive-mode knob from Drive to Snow and confirm the cluster indication.
- 03
For low-speed sand, mud or unpaved terrain, press the AWD Lock switch and confirm its indicator illuminates.
- 04
Keep speed at 25 mph (40 km/h) or below and use smooth steering, brake and accelerator inputs.
- 05
Press AWD Lock again and return to AWD Auto as soon as difficult traction ends.
Important limits
- AWD Lock changes automatically to AWD Auto at 25 mph (40 km/h) or faster and can return below 20 mph (30 km/h).
- Do not use AWD Lock on dry paved roads or highways; noise, vibration or AWD-component damage can result.
- Snow mode resets to normal Drive mode after the vehicle is turned off and restarted.
Quick checks.
- ✓A small shock as AWD Lock releases can be normal when drive power transfers.
- ✓If vibration occurs on normal pavement, turn AWD Lock off and use AWD Auto.
- ✓If the AWD indicator warns of a fault or Lock will not engage on an appropriate surface, have an authorized Kia dealer inspect the system.
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2025 Kia Telluride Digital Owner's Manual — AWD and Snow Mode
Relevant section or page: Driving your vehicle — All Wheel Drive system — AWD/SNOW mode. We use the written official source to determine the steps and applicability shown above.
Reviewed with a visible trail.
Scope and steps were checked by Car Cheat Codes Editorial Review. A guide is narrowed or corrected when the source does not support a broader claim.
- Published
- Last modified
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Guide change history
- Initial verified publication.