So when I shift down I haven't been pushing the engine past 4k, I think I've been pretty consistent there. And yes I've been slowing down as you describe, applying the breaks only in the last 20 feet or so (typically already in 1st by then). I'm certainly not street racing here. I'll be following the maintenance schedule pretty much religiously, so I don't think that will be an issue. I don't see, however, how Kia could come to any conclusion at all about the cause of the wear (although admittedly I don't know anything about the diagnostic capabilities these days) that would give them any insight into my driving habits. But even if they could? I've been up and down that warranty to make sure I understand what I have to do to stay in good standing and it doesn't say anything about shifting habits. About all I (well me and every one else that wants to keep the warranty in good standing) have to worry about is:
1) Make sure I follow the maintenance schedule and keep printed records (I just cracked 200 km on the odo, so I'm a ways away yet - but check).
2) Don't replace any parts with non-Kia parts (even though they'll be doing the replacing of non-wear and tear parts on warranty if req'd).
3) No engine/transmission
mods (for me that's going to be no problem, I like her just the way she is).
4) Don't hop curbs (it actually says this - again check).
5) Don't set the car on fire or get it stolen (... here's hoping?).
6) Don't hit the car with severe acts of God (this one is
totally outside my control).
I can't find anything in the text that gives Kia an avenue to deny me service due to my driving habits. If you guys know of something though, please let me know because I very much don't want ignorance to cost me a bulldozer full of cash!
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