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A white 2022 Kia Seltos being driven on the highway with a bridge overhead and buildings in the background. | Kia service center in Conway, AR.

4 Car Maintenance Tips to Keep Your Kia in Great Shape for Years

Are you worried about the longevity of your car? Wondering what your official Kia dealer can do to help it last? There are a few important maintenance tips you should know. Here are some of the most important car maintenance tips to bear in mind. 1. Read Your Owner's Manual When you first purchased your Kia, you should have gotten an owner's manual to go with it. While it's probably pretty tempting to take your new car for a spin, it's a good idea to sit down with your owner's manual first. There's a lot of important information in this manual, including information on how various components of your vehicle work and how you can properly maintain your car. It will also tell you things like how often you should be getting service for your car. 2. Get Regular Service There are two types of servicing that you should be getting for your car. You should get interim service checks for your Kia every 6 months or so and full service checks around every year. Your owner's manual will have more information on what these checks entail. Getting regular service for your car is all about being proactive. Instead of waiting until problems become major and potentially even dangerous concerns, getting regular service will keep your vehicle working the best that it can and ensure that it lasts for years to come. 3. Check Your Tires If you want your vehicle to work properly, then you need to make sure its tires are in good shape. If your tires aren't kept at an appropriate pressure, you'll be much more likely to experience major issues like flat tires and blow outs while you're on the road. Make sure you check the pressure of your car's tires at least once a month. When seasons change, this can affect your tires' pressure so you should check them more regularly during these times. You'll also want to monitor your tires' treads to make sure they're wearing down evenly. 4. Keep Your Car Clean Cleaning your car regularly isn't just going to keep it looking its best. A clean car is also a car that's going to be working its best. That's why you should make sure that you're washing both the inside and the outside of your vehicle regularly. Dirt and grime can build up on your car, subsequently damaging its bodywork. To prevent this, aim to wash your car at least once every two weeks. If you tend to drive in particularly dirty areas, then you might want to wash it more frequently to prevent damages and keep it looking its best. If you want your Kia to last as long as possible, the above maintenance tips will help it stay in the best shape possible. When it comes time to get regular servicing for your car, make sure you go to the right place. Book your servicing with us today at Crain Kia of Conway. Image via Kia.

Profile view of a red 2022 Kia K5 being driven. | Kia service in Conway, AR.

Time for New Tires? Visit Your Kia Dealer Today

Your Kia dealer makes it easy and convenient when your Rio, Seltos, or Sorento needs new tires. The tire center stocks a wide selection of high-quality major brand tires at the best prices and offer expert assistance to make your purchase and tire installation hassle-free. Signs It's Time for a New Set of Tires Take a good look at each tire on your car. If you notice that the tread on one side of a tire is more worn than the other or you can see the wear indicator bars, the bars that warn you the tread is worn down, it's best to replace the tires. Use a tread depth gauge and measure the depth, and if it's lower than 2.32 inches, replace your tires as soon as possible for your safety. The same goes for tire damage. Bulges, cracks, and cuts in the sidewalls will weaken the tire and create leaks that will increase the risk of blowouts. Another sign that'll warn you to get a new set of tires is the age of the tires. When tires get old, the rubber dries out and cracks, seriously affecting your safety on the road. Most tire manufacturers recommend replacing an old set of tires every six years from the date of manufacture. The manufacture date is on the sidewall of the tire. The Kia Tire Center Our Kia Tire Center offers a wide selection of Kia-approved tire brands in various sizes at competitive prices. The friendly and knowledgeable tire specialists will help you to choose the right tires that fit your vehicle perfectly, and the certified Kia technicians will perform an expert installation. Convenient Online Tire Shopping We make buying tires easy and convenient. You can find tires on our website by filling in the online form with your vehicle's year, make, model, trim, and tire size you need, and start shopping for tires right away. Tire Payment Plans Tires are pricey, and to help you when you need a new set, we offer financing through Sunbit with convenient monthly payment plans and affordable monthly payments. Tire Price Match If you find a new set of tires locally at a better price, we'll match it every time. Just bring the quote to us within 30 days, and we will refund you the difference. 24-month Road Hazard Coverage We offer you a 24-month Road Hazard Coverage on eligible tires when you buy tires from us. The tires are 100% covered for two years, and if you get a flat tire, we will cover you for up to $20 per occurrence. When it's time to replace your tires, rely on us for the best major tire brands at unbeatable prices and expert tire services. Visit Crain Kia of Conway today, and our certified Kia specialists will help you find the right tires for your car and perform an expert tire installation. Image via Kia.

Close view of the front grille area of a 2019 Kia Sedona. | Kia dealer in Conway, AR.

5 Benefits of Getting Routine Transmission Service for Your Kia

Your car's transmission is one of the hardest working components, with many parts that move power from the engine to the wheels. The transmission is essential and must work correctly for your Kia Sorento, Telluride, or Rio to run perfectly. Routine transmission service from the qualified and experienced Kia technicians at your Kia dealer will ensure that your Kia's transmission is always in good working order. 1. You'll Save Money on Fuel With today's gas prices, isn't it good to know that regularly servicing your car's transmission will save you money on gas? With regular services, transmission checks, and transmission fluid replacements, your transmission will be in good working order, and you will not have to fill up as often. 2. You'll Save Money on Repairs Your car's transmission consists of hundreds of moving parts that are expensive to repair and replace. If you notice any transmission problems, don't delay and get it fixed by a qualified Kia technician as soon as possible to avoid high repair costs. Routine transmission inspections and regular transmission fluid replacements will prevent unexpected repairs and costly replacements. 3. Your Car's Gears Will Shift Smoothly Transmission fluid that is old and dirty overheats and turns into a thick sludge that clogs up the gears, delaying gear shifts or making it hard to shift gears. Over time the lack of proper lubrication could cause severe damage to your transmission. That is why regularly servicing your car's transmission and replacing the transmission fluid at the recommended intervals is so important. Regular transmission fluid replacements will prevent gear shifting issues and ensure that your gears shift smoothly. 4. The Transmission Components Will Be Protected Transmission fluid that is not regularly replaced becomes old and contaminated and doesn't cool or lubricate as it should, causing the components to wear down faster. When a qualified Kia technician regularly services your car's transmission and replaces the transmission fluid, the transmission components will be well lubricated to reduce friction that causes wear. When all the parts are protected and running smoothly, your transmission will last longer. 5. Your Car Will Be on the Road for Longer During each transmission inspection, every component is thoroughly checked to ensure that each part works correctly and is in good working condition. After every transmission inspection, your car will perform at its best. Servicing your transmission at the factory-recommended intervals will also affect your engine's performance, and when the engine runs smoothly, your Kia will be on the road for longer. Reap all the great benefits of regular transmission checks and transmission fluid replacements. Check your owner's manual for the factory-recommended maintenance intervals. Drive to Crain Kia of Conway today, and the qualified Kia technicians will ensure that your vehicle's transmission is in perfect shape. Image via Kia.

A blue 2022 Kia K5 being driven on the highway with tall buildings in the background. | Kia service in Conway, AR.

4 Engine Problems You Should Always Get Fixed at Your Kia Dealer

Want to keep your car in good working order? Its engine is one of the most important things to consider. There are several engine problems you might run into. Here are some common issues that you should always visit your Kia dealer to fix. 1. General Engine Issues The second you start running into engine issues, you should take your car to your dealership. An engine not functioning properly can result in a whole range of problems. For instance, you could have reduced fuel economy, or your car might refuse to start at all. If you suspect there's anything wrong with your car's engine, it's in your best interest to take it to your dealership. Don't try to fix the problem yourself. This is especially true if the repair requires that the whole engine be removed, which can be a complicated task. 2. Leaking There are several fluids that you'll find in your car's engine that help your vehicle run properly. If you notice that any of these fluids are leaking, you need to get that fixed right away. Sometimes a leak can be an easy fix that's done quickly. In other situations, it's a little more complicated. If you notice any signs of leaking, get your car to your dealership. They'll identify the problem and fix it. 3. Belt Replacements Eventually, your vehicle is going to need to have a belt replaced. Your timing belt, for instance, is likely going to need to be replaced every 60,000 to 100,000 miles or so, depending on your driving habits and how rough you are on your vehicle. While replacing it yourself might seem like a smart move, experts will caution you against this. But if you do a replacement like this incorrectly, it could result in an even more costly repair down the line. It's best to head to your local dealership's mechanics who will make sure that the replacement is done correctly. 4. Suspension Components Fixing or replacing the parts used for your car's suspension might seem like an easy task. But you'll be surprised how quickly things can get complicated during a repair like this. Doing it incorrectly could even result in your car's engine not being properly supported. It's also unlike that you own some of the important equipment needed to get the job done right. Your dealership's mechanics will be able to identify the issue that's causing problems with your suspension and perform the appropriate repair or replacement. It's better to pay your mechanic to fix the problem right than have to deal with the costs of fixing a repair done wrong later. Everyone is going to have to take their car in for a repair eventually. If you need to have your Kia repaired, you should make sure to take it to the right place. The mechanics at your local dealership will be ready to help you. Contact us today to learn more about how we can assist. Image via Kia.

Profile view of a dark bluish-green 2022 Kia Sorento parked in front of a body of water with trees in the background. | Kia dealer in Conway, AR.

How to Find a Quality Collision Repair for Your Kia

We know how much you love your Kia. That is why it is essential to find quality collision repair after an accident. Whether you have a minor scratch or severe damage to your vehicle, you should take it to a repair center you can trust. Here is how your Kia dealer can help. Reputation Reputation is important. When looking for a repair center, you want to ensure that your Kia is in trustworthy hands. A repair center with a shady reputation might leave you with mismatched paint, cheap after-market parts, and other unsightly repairs. Research the reputation of any auto body repair center before using them. Warranty Many auto body repair centers offer warranties, which means they stand behind their work. It also means that if something isn't right with the repairs on your Kia, you can bring your vehicle back in. Always look for a warranty to ensure that your repair is covered. Parts Quality Some repair centers use cheap after-market parts. While this may make the repairs less expensive, it isn't wise to go this route. Ideally, you want a repair center that uses genuine parts for your vehicle. Doing this will help ensure that your repair will help restore your Kia to the same quality as before the damage. Specialization It's preferable to take your Kia to a repair center that specializes in Kia repairs. By doing so, you can be sure that only certified professionals are performing the work. When you choose a specialized repair center, you can ensure that you are getting high-quality auto body repair. How Your Kia Dealer Can Help At Crain Automotive Team Collision, we aim to make your Kia repair an easy and convenient process. We offer multiple locations so you can visit the collision center that works best for you. You can conveniently schedule an appointment online and even get an estimate without even leaving your home. Our collision center provides top-quality specialized auto-body repair. We even offer a limited lifetime warranty, meaning you can be confident we stand behind our work. If you live in town, we offer a pick-up and drop-off service so that you can continue to enjoy your day while your vehicle is under repair. All of this, in combination with our commitment to customer satisfaction, is why we are I-CAR Gold-Class certified. We are an auto-body repair center with a solid reputation, and you can count on us. We hope you can use this information to help find the right repair center for your Kia. If you are looking for quality Kia care, we would be happy to help. Contact us today at Crain Kia of Conway, and we can assist you with any of your automotive needs. Image via Kia.

A red 2022 Kia K5 being driven on the road. | Kia dealer in Conway, AR.

What Can You Learn from an Engine Diagnostic?

Having an accurate overall picture of the condition of your vehicle's engine is essential for drivers who want to keep their cars in good working order. After a quick and easy engine diagnostic from your local Kia dealer, you can walk away feeling confident you know what's going on underneath the hood of your car! Here are a few essential bits of information you can get from a diagnostic test on your car. 1. The General Condition of Your Vehicle's Engine When a diagnostics machine is plugged into your vehicle, it does a quick scan of the components that keep your car's engine running smoothly. The results will come back with a general picture of how healthy your vehicle is under the hood. You might get the good news that everything is in fine working condition, and there are no issues, but if the diagnostics machine detects anything that needs more attention, it will let you know. 2. If Your Vehicle Has Any Overdue or Scheduled Maintenance Needs That You Should Be Aware Of Getting a code on a diagnostics test doesn't necessarily mean something is falling apart. Your vehicle requires regular maintenance to keep it running in tip-top shape, and oftentimes a diagnostics test will alert you to any regular maintenance needs your vehicle may have. This could be something as simple as your car being overdue for an oil change! So don't panic if a diagnostic test brings any codes up on your vehicle - it doesn't have to be bad news! 3. If Your Vehicle Is Having Any Electrical Issues Aside from scanning the regular moving and working components of your car, a diagnostic test will also let you know if there are any problems with how the various components of your vehicle are communicating with each other via the car's electrical system. Good electrical connections are essential for proper engine functioning, and a diagnostic test will let you know if you have any loose connections that need some TLC! 4. What (If Anything) Needs to Be Repaired on Your Vehicle If your diagnostic test does end up coming back with a code that signifies there's an error that needs to be fixed, then it should also show you where that issue is and what it entails.This is helpful if you've noticed something is off with your car, but you can't quite figure out what is causing the change in how it drives, or the source of strange noises, or why the check engine light has suddenly illuminated for no apparent reason. 5. The Approximate Cost of the Repairs Needed for Your Vehicle Once a diagnostic test points you in the right direction of what is causing the issue, you can get down to business in figuring out what repairing that issue should cost you on average. Vehicle repairs run the gamut from cheap and easy fixes to some pretty expensive repair needs, and figuring out how much to budget for repairs is an essential bit of information you can get from running diagnostics! With all of this information to be gleaned from a quick, easy diagnostic test for your engine, there's no time like the present to get one done. Come visit us at Crain Kia of Conway today, and our team of reliable mechanics can help give you an overview of your vehicle's health, and bring you some peace of mind in the process! Image via Kia.

Rear view of a white 2022 Kia K5 being driven on the highway with mountains up ahead. | Kia dealer in Conway, AR.

How Often Should You Replace Your Brake Pads?

You may be wondering if it is time to replace your brake pads and how often you actually need to get this service. The answer to this question can vary, but when you need to get your brakes serviced you shouldn't put it off. Failing to maintain your brakes can be extremely hazardous. Fortunately, your Kia dealer makes it easy. Here is what you need to know. Signs That You Need To Replace Your Brake Pads When considering any important vehicle service, particularly when it comes to something as important as your brakes, you should always adhere to the manufacturer's recommendations for your vehicle. You can find this information in your service plan, and if you have any questions we would be happy to answer them. Aside from this, if you notice any signs that your brakes are not working properly, then you should have your vehicle looked at. If you notice any odd noises, you should be concerned. You may hear squealing or rumbling, and this should prompt an immediate visit to your dealership for service. When your brakes need attention, you may also notice that it has become harder to stop, and this is a very dangerous indication that you have a problem. Finally, you may have a service light on, and this should always be checked out too. How Your Kia Dealer Makes It Easy Fortunately, when you do need brake service, Crain Kia of Conway makes it easy for you to get the services you need for your Kia. You can schedule your service online, from the comfort of your home, and choose a time that works well for you. You can trust that your vehicle is in good hands. We provide certified technicians and genuine Kia parts. When you bring your vehicle in for service, we will do a comprehensive assessment and check for any areas of concern, and we will ensure that your vehicle receives the award-winning quality care it deserves. We value your safety and we stand behind the quality of our service. We also offer discounts because we want you to get the best service at the best price. You can count on us to get the job done right. Why You Shouldn't Wait Don't put off your brake service. We understand that you are busy, and you may not always feel like you have the time for vehicle maintenance. The function of your brakes is an important part of vehicle safety. Failure to properly maintain your brakes could put you at risk for a dangerous accident. This can also cost you more money and more time in the long run. We hope you understand the importance of brake service. Fortunately, with the safety features in the new 2022 Kia Telluride, you can drive confidently knowing you are in control. If you are looking for a vehicle with excellent safety features, or if you are looking for Kia service you can trust, then we would be happy to help. Contact us today at Crain Kia of Conway, and we can help you with any of your automotive needs. We look forward to meeting you! Image via Kia.

Profile view of a light blue 2023 Kia Soul parked on a curb. | Kia dealer in Conway, AR.

5 Signs Your Kia Could Use a New Car Air Filter

Your car engine air filter plays an important role in your engine's overall performance and efficiency. Filters keep dirt and particles away from the engine, so if your car is not responsive, or you're paying more at the pump, your air filter could be one of the causes. Check out these signs that you may need to replace your car air filter at your Kia dealer. Sluggish Engine A sluggish engine can be a real pain, especially when you're trying to get somewhere in a hurry. If your engine is sluggish or having trouble accelerating, the first thing you should check is the air filter. If it's dirty, it can restrict airflow to the engine and cause it to run less efficiently. The air filter helps block debris from entering a car's engine. A dirty or damaged filter will require the engine to work harder, reducing efficiency and causing sluggishness and declining fuel economy. In addition, a clogged filter can cause an engine to overheat, increasing the risk of significant damage. Trouble Starting Your Car If you have trouble starting your car, it may be due to a problem with the air filter. Since the air filter is responsible for providing clean air to the engine, it can cause the engine to misfire or run rough if it is dirty or clogged. If you suspect that your air filter may be the problem, you can perform a visual check on it yourself. A new air filter is usually white or off-white, but if your filter is discolored, torn, or you see dirt on it, it's time to bring your car in for a replacement. Your Gas Mileage Has Decreased If your gas mileage has decreased, this is also a sign of a potential air filter problem. Dirty air filters dramatically reduce fuel efficiency, causing the engine to work harder and use more gas. So if you're paying more at the pump, you may want to check out the condition of your filters. You Smell Gas When You Start the Car Unburned fuel is often to blame for gas smells, and one of the best ways to fix this is to replace your engine air filter. If you smell gas, especially when you start the car, it's best to bring your vehicle to the service department. The filter, once replaced, will improve efficiency and save money on gas. If it turns out your problem is not the filter, we'll diagnose the issue and help you get your vehicle back on track. You're Not Sure When Your Filter Was Last Replaced If it's been a while since you've had an oil change and other car maintenance, you're likely due to replace your air filter. Usually, manufacturers recommend replacing an air filter every 15,000-30,000 miles. Check your manual for your specific vehicle or stop in the service department, and we'd be happy to check your service record. Replacing your car engine air filter is a low-cost way to ensure your car stays in tip-top shape and runs efficiently. Visit Crain Kia of Conway, and we'll be happy to inspect your vehicle. We'll let you know if there is a problem and get you back on the road as soon as possible. Image via Kia.

Close view of the tire of a 2022 Kia Seltos. | Kia dealer in Conway, AR.

Does Your Kia Need a Brake Repair?

The braking system of a modern Kia is remarkably reliable and durable. Even so, every time you press that brake pedal, your pads and rotors undergo enormous pressure and wear down a tiny fraction. Over time, every car needs brake repair of some kind or other. Here are three signs you might need to head to your local Kia dealer to have your brakes inspected and repaired. Strange Sounds When Braking The parts of a car's brake system that experience the most wear and tear are the brake pads. These are the pads that clamp onto the rotors every time you brake, creating enough friction to slow and stop your car. Brake pads are designed to emit an unpleasant high-pitched squealing sound when they wear down too far, alerting you to the need for replacements. The upper friction layer of a brake pad is made from a composite of metal shavings bonded with resin. You'll hear the high-pitched sound when this friction layer is almost gone. If the friction layer disappears altogether, you'll start hearing a grinding noise, which indicates metal scraping on metal. At this point, your rotors could become seriously damaged if you don't change out your pads promptly. Vibrations While Braking The rotor discs themselves can sometimes become damaged, in which case you'll feel odd vibrations through your brake pedal or steering wheel. Rotor damage most often occurs as a result of overheating. If you're braking constantly for prolonged periods of time, the friction can heat up your rotors to the point where the metal softens enough to warp or become scraped and scored. This extreme heat can also sometimes melt the resin in brake pads. This melted resin then coats the rotor and hardens into a lumpy layer which causes vibrations. Damaged rotors almost always have to be replaced, so it's best to avoid overuse of your brake pedal. Driving Conditions That Cause Overheating If you're driving for prolonged periods in heavy stop-and-go traffic, your brakes might begin to overheat. The same threat is posed by mountainous roads with plenty of long downhill stretches. In either case, try to adapt your driving style so you're putting less pressure on your brakes. And if you ever think your brakes might be overheating, take a break from the road to let them cool down. Less Effective Braking If you ever press your brake pedal and it feels soft or spongy, and your vehicle takes longer to slow than normal, then you're experiencing brake fade. This is most often caused by overheating and, needless to say, it's very dangerous. Once cooled, your brakes should return to normal effectiveness. But if brake fade persists, you probably have a more serious problem such as a brake fluid leak, and you should have a trusted technician take a look immediately. How a Kia Dealer Inspects Your Brakes The technician first needs to check your brake fluid level and top it up if necessary. They'll then examine all the lines and hoses under your hood and undercarriage. Your car will need to be raised so they can remove the wheels, calipers, rotors, and pads, inspecting each part with care. Any faulty parts will then be repaired or replaced and carefully tested. To have your brakes examined and repaired by experienced professionals, visit Crain Kia of Conway. We're a family-owned dealership that's been providing drivers with exceptional vehicles and service since 1966. Image via Kia.

Close view of the front passenger tire of a red 2022 Kia Stinger. | Kia dealer in Conway, AR.

5 Benefits of Getting a Tire Rotation for Your Kia

There are important ways to maintain your vehicle's performance, including a regular tire rotation, which offers a variety of benefits. When you schedule maintenance with your Kia dealer, you'll want to inquire about rotating your tires and the advantages of this service. 1. Tires Last Longer When you rotate your vehicle's tires, you'll extend the use of your tires before they need to be replaced. It's essential to schedule a rotation of your tires once every thousand miles, which keeps your tires in excellent condition, with improved traction and less strain on the drivetrain. Your Kia expert can provide a schedule to rotate your tires, which makes the process easy, and allows you to keep your tires longer and with more significant results. 2. Consistent and Even Wear One of the most significant advantages of rotating your tires is keeping the wear consistent and even on each tire. Your tires on the front axle of the car tend to wear differently than the tires at the rear. When some tires are worn more than others, this will impact the quality of your drive, including changes in terrain and various road conditions. It's important to rotate tires to keep their condition irregular shape, so there is little or no effect during your ride. 3. Cost Savings When you schedule a visit to your Kia service center to rotate your tires at regular intervals, you'll save on the cost of damage or tire replacement due to excessive wear. Certified Kia technicians can also provide other tips and suggestions during each rotation, including tire care and adapting to changing weather conditions, which means you won't have to replace your tires as often. 4. Less Noise and Vibration It's familiar to experience vibration, erratic driving, and increased noises when some tires are worn more than others. These issues occur when tires are not rotated, and the overall surface condition of your tires becomes worn or smooth in some areas and less impacted in other spots. When tire surfaces are uneven, you'll notice vibration or jerking motions from your steering wheel, affecting your driving performance. 5. Improved Driving Conditions and Safety When you rotate your tires in regular intervals, you'll find that your vehicle handles changes in weather, road conditions, and various terrain easier. It's also safer to navigate, with better steering wheel control and a smoother drive. When your tires are evenly worn, you'll be better prepared for unexpected slippery roads after a sudden rainfall or significant changes in temperature that can impact your next drive out of town. It's crucial to schedule regular visits to your Kia service center to rotate your tires at regular intervals to ensure a safer, smoother ride while saving on the cost of tire replacement. Come see us at Crain Kia of Conway and learn about our fantastic showroom deals on new and pre-owned vehicles today. We offer great offers on maintenance plans and financing options to meet your budget and lifestyle requirements. Image via Kia.

A silver 2022 Kia Telluride bring driven on a dirt road with trees in the background. | Kia dealer in Conway, AR.

Does Your Kia Need a Transmission Repair?

Your Kia's transmission serves the essential function of transmitting power from your engine to your wheels. If you detect any kind of transmission problem, you should get it seen to promptly. Let's take a look at 5 possible signs that you need to visit your local Kia dealer for transmission repair. Leaking Transmission Fluid The special fluid in your transmission system is vital for your car to work properly. It lubricates the gears and other mechanical parts, cools the system, prevents oxidation and rust, and conditions the gasket. If this fluid is leaking, you need to get it seen to immediately. Fortunately, it's an easy problem to spot. Any kind of transmission fluid leak will lead to a pool of reddish, sweet-smelling liquid under your car. You'll notice it when you move away from parking. You can also glance under your Kia every now and then, just to check. Slipping Gears This one's a rather disconcerting experience. If your gears start changing all on their own while you're driving, you have a clear problem in your transmission, where the gears reside. This can happen when gears get worn down or rounded out over time. Apart from gears changing all on their own, other indicators that your gears have slipped include delayed acceleration, harsh sounds when you try to shift gears, and revving during a gear change. If you notice any of these issues, it's unwise to continue driving. For safety's sake, you'll need to call a tow truck. Gears Not Changing Another obvious sign of transmission trouble is if your vehicle simply refuses to change gears, or struggles hard to change gears. There's no need to panic, this is usually caused by incorrect or low fluid. In which case, you just need to get it topped up. Clutch Problems The clutch is another important part of a manual transmission, allowing the engine to momentarily disengage from the driveshaft while you change gears. If your clutch has begun to wear out, you might experience clutch drag or clutch spin. Both of these require a visit to your local Kia dealer for a check-up. A slipping clutch points to problems with the master cylinder, release system, or excess oil. You might experience slippage as a stiff clutch pedal, loud revving when you start moving or needing to downshift gears more often when going downhill. Dragging is when the clutch disc doesn't properly disengage from the flywheel, as it should. Symptoms of clutch drag include movement while you're starting, hard starting, difficulty shifting gears, and engine stalls. Burning Smells Don't ignore any burning smells from your car. One cause might be your transmission fluid burning, perhaps from not being replaced frequently enough. The smell might also be from an overheating transmission, which could be caused by all kinds of issues. It's best to get it checked out swiftly. To have your transmission checked by qualified professionals, visit Crain Kia of Conway. We're a family-owned dealership with family members on-site every day, ready to greet you and sort out your Kia purchasing and servicing needs, whatever they may be. Image via Kia.

A royal blue 2022 Kia K5 stopped at a stoplight. | Kia dealer in Conway, AR.

3 Signs Your Kia May Need a New Car Battery

Your car battery is one of the most important components in your car. It provides the electrical charge to start your car. Without a working battery, your car will never move. Although the battery is important, many drivers don't think about it until one day the car just won't start. As your Kia dealer, we don't want this to happen to you. These are some signs that you need to come in for a new car battery. Corroded Terminals Your battery is filled with chemicals, including sulfuric acid. These chemicals are used in the complex reactions of transforming chemical energy into electricity. As a battery gets older, some of the sulfuric acids can escape from the battery casing as a vapor. This vapor mixes with moisture in the air and forms an acidic salt which can corrode your battery. If you open the hood and check your battery, you can easily see if there's any sign of corrosion. If the battery terminals have a gray or white substance around them, this means that your terminals are starting to corrode. Once a battery starts to corrode, it's a sign that your battery will need to be replaced. An Old Battery The average battery will work for 3 to 5 years before it needs to be replaced. Your battery's lifespan, however, is influenced by extremes of heat or cold, driving conditions, and a host of other factors. As your dealer, we advise that your battery should be checked at least every three years to ensure that it's still working correctly. As the battery ages, you will notice that it clearly shows signs of aging. You can test this by turning on your headlights when your car's engine is switched off. If the lights are bright, your battery is probably working just fine. If you notice that the headlights are dim, this can be a sign that your battery is failing or that there is a problem with your car's electrical system. Our technicians can test your battery, and we will also check the electrical system for any problems. Not Holding a Charge An older battery starts to have difficulty in holding a charge. Your alternator recharges your battery as you drive, but an older battery may not be able to retain this charge. This can be a difficult problem to spot, as it can only be tested at home without testing equipment by not starting your car for a few days. After this time, try to use some of your car's devices without switching the engine on. When your engine is off, your battery maintains the electrical systems, including the dash light, headlights, and other components. If any of these components aren't working correctly, your battery is probably failing and needs to be replaced. We will test it for you. If you have any battery problems, call us immediately at Crain Kia of Conway and our technicians will check your battery. Image via Kia.

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