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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.

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.

If you're looking for a way to connect with local culture, then you should consider visiting some spots featuring local art! Supporting local artists and craftsmen is a great way to support the local culture and encourage future generations to get involved in creative pursuits. And luckily, Conway, AR is home to many museums and galleries where you can experience paintings, sculptures, and more made right here in town. Check our list of the best places to do so! 1. Marty Smith Art One of Conway's most gifted artists is definitely Marty Smith. Marty was born in Little Rock in 1980, and since she was five years old she has had an affinity for visual art, first getting involved with watercolors. As she grew, she drew inspiration for her art from trips to the Blue Ridge Mountains, the Amish countryside, and natural scenes like beaches. Currently Marty displays her art in galleries in Little Rock and Conway, where visitors can spend an afternoon perusing her pieces and purchase some to decorate their homes or use as gifts. We especially love her floral and still-life paintings, both of which give off a sense of serene peace. 2. Windgate Museum of Art Hosted by Hendrix College, the Windgate Museum of Art is a free museum, open from Tuesday to Saturday, where visitors can experience a wide variety of pieces created by artists from the Conway area and beyond. Their exhibitions frequently change, so each time you go you can experience something new! We especially enjoy the events hosted by the Windgate Museum of Art. They often host workshops, film screenings, tours, and workshops, all of which have been invigorating and have enhanced our appreciation of the artistic process. Check their calendar to see what they have coming up! 3. Branch Out If you think that creating art is something only for established artists, then do we have a surprise for you! All great artists have the story of how they began, and your story may just begin at Branch Out. Branch out is both a boutique store and a center for painting classes and other workshops. You can enjoy Branch Out's open studio hours on Fridays at 6:30, or on Saturdays at 1:00 and 6:00. Or, you can have a blast with your child on Saturdays from 1 to 3 in the afternoon! Branch Out can also be reserved for private events. To make sure everyone can come along with you to this great art spots, drive a spacious vehicle like the new, stylish 2022 Kia Sorento SX. Come check one out today at Crain Kia of Conway! Image via Pixabay.

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.

Every new car you buy comes with a warranty, which protects you in case of a problem with the parts or the workmanship. But not all warranties are created equal, and every manufacturer has a different policy. Today, we'll have a look at the new car warranty you can expect to receive when you come to the Kia dealer. What Can You Expect from Your Kia Dealer's Car Warranty? When you shop at the brand-name dealership, you always get the manufacturer's warranty on new Kia vehicles. This is considered one of the best in the industry because your car's parts are covered for 5-10 years. Some other manufacturers only offer a three-year warranty. What's more, Kia also provides drivers with roadside assistance and reimbursement for trip interruptions related to components that are covered under the warranty. 10 Years of Coverage Compared to other cars, the warranty you get on your Kia is outstanding. Your powertrain, which includes the engine, the axles, the transmission, the driveshaft, and the differential, is covered for 10 years or 100,000 miles, whichever comes first. For the first five years or 60,000 miles, you also get a basic limited warranty on the other components, and you're on the Kia roadside assistance plan. For five years or 50,000 miles, you benefit from limited anti-perforation warranty, which covers you if your body sheet metal gets perforated due to corrosion. Roadside Assistance Everyone who buys a new car benefits from emergency roadside assistance. If you have a problem on the road, you can call one of the 17,000 trusted roadside assistance providers, who are able to help you around the clock. Minor issues such as a flat tire or a dead battery can be fixed at no charge, so you can ride your Kia with confidence. Reimbursement for Trip Interruption If something that is covered under your warranty breaks while you're more than 150 miles away from home, you can get reimbursed for your expenses. The warranty covers various costs, such as your overnight stay, food-related expenses, and a rental car. Should I Buy Extended Warranty? At some point, even the best warranty runs out. So, is it worth getting extended coverage after the initial time period is up? In many cases, the answer is yes. Extended warranty could help you plan your expenses better, so you're not stuck with an unexpected bill. This can make it easier for you to keep your Kia for longer, and it can facilitate budgeting. If you're risk-averse and you'd like peace of mind, buying an extended warranty could be a great idea. Kia cars come with a great warranty, which covers the parts for 5-10 years. What's more, you gain access to emergency roadside assistance, and you'll be reimbursed if you run into issues far away from your home. To find out more about the specific limited warranty that comes with your favorite Kia, you should reach out to the dealer. Message us now at Crain Kia of Conway to book an appointment with one of our salespeople at the showroom. Image via Kia.

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.

Hop in your Kia Rio, Soul, or Seltos for a drive around Conway, AR, to enjoy the best views in the region. Enjoy a day on the shores of sparkling Lake Conway and have a peaceful picnic in the wooded Beaverfork Lake Park. Hike up Pinnacle Mountain for spectacular vistas of the Arkansas River Valley, and walk or cycle over Big Dam Bridge at night to marvel at the colorful light reflections on the water of the Arkansas River. 1. Lake Conway Take a drive out to the beautiful 6,700-acre Lake Conway, the largest lake in the country, created by a state wildlife commission. To appreciate the panoramic views over the lake's sparkling waters, spend the day on the swimming beach or one of the numerous well-marked boat trails. There are ample spots for picnics along the shores, and if you take your fishing tackle along, you can hook bass, bluegill, crappie, and blue and flathead catfish from the shore or a boat. 2. Beaverfork Lake Park Pack your picnic blanket and basket in the trunk and head out to the wooded 25-acre Beaverfork Lake Park on the shores of the picturesque 964-acre Beaverfork Lake to enjoy the beautiful scenery. The park offers splendid views of the scenic lake and the surrounding woodlands. Spread out your picnic blanket on the lawns under the trees, or get comfy at one of the many covered picnic areas and enjoy a peaceful afternoon barbecuing in the scenic surroundings. 3. Pinnacle Mountain One can never tire of the spectacular view of the Arkansas River Valley, Lake Maumelle, and the Big and Little Maumelle Rivers from Pinnacle Mountain in the center of the breathtaking Pinnacle Mountain State Park. Pull in at the East Summit Parking Lot on Pinnacle Valley Road and take a somewhat strenuous and rugged one to two-hour hike to the top of the mountain on the 1.5 mile East Summit Trail for a view that will take your breath away. You can also hike up the rocky 11.2-mile West Summit Trail from the picnic area. The trail is a challenging hike but well worth the effort for the panoramic views of the valley, the lake, the Ouachita Mountains, and Little Rock in the distance. 4. Big Dam Bridge Six bridges span the Arkansas River in Little Rock. The colossal 90-foot-high Big Dam Bridge spans 4,226 feet across the Arkansas River and is the longest bridge in North America designed specifically for pedestrians and cyclists. Walk or cycle over the bridge at night to look at the colorful light reflections on the water. The bridge's lighting design won the Illumination Engineering Society of North America IIDA Award of Merit, which creates a spectacular lighting display. Big Dam Bridge connects miles of riverside trails that cut through beautiful parks in the cities of Little Rock and North Little Rock. The bridge also provides access to countless attractions, including the Clinton Presidential Center and the River Market. Go for a drive to fantastic destinations in and around Conway and enjoy spectacular views in the most beautiful places in the region. Stop at Crain Kia of Conway today, and test drive one of our quality new and pre-owned vehicles. Image via Pixabay.

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.

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.

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.

It's your turn to make the plan for date night; however, you don't want to repeat the same date over and over continuously. What do you do? If you are looking for fantastic date ideas to wow your significant other, then Conway, AR has many excellent opportunities for you. 1. Kings If you are looking for live music and great food, Kings is perfect for your date. They are located at 1020 Front Street and are open from 4 pm - 2 am Wednesday thru Saturday. Kings features live music for your enjoyment, including open mic nights, karaoke nights, and bands like Charlotte Taylor & Gypsy Rain. Their menu offers wings, southwest egg rolls, spinach dip, pizza, and more. At Kings, you can reserve lounges for parties or other occasions. These lounges are comfortable, spacious, and provide the perfect place for group dates. Kings is the ideal date for any couple that loves music. 2. Baum Art Gallery If your significant other loves art, then plan on visiting the Baum Art Gallery at the University of Central Arkansas. The exhibits at the Baum Art Gallery change every season, so you can plan a date here multiple times a year and see something new every time. Their painting exhibit will continue until February 17th of this year. They also have a juried senior exhibition that will begin in April. Head to the Baum Art Gallery for fantastic art and great conversation. 3. Conway Family Bowl Conway Family Bowl is perfect if you want to enjoy a night of laughter and bowling. Conway Family Bowl is open seven days a week and has twenty-four lanes ready for use. If you are looking for a family date, they offer bumper systems and an arcade for the kids. In addition, Conway Family Bowl is prepared to host group parties and has excellent food ready to sate any appetite. 4. Pickles Gap Village Pickles Gap Village, located at 315 Highway 65 North, is adorably named after a legend of a German immigrant who accidentally overturned his load of pickles nearby. The village is a popular tourist destination that includes a flea market, a knife shop, a print shop, a kiddie land, and is pet friendly. Be sure to visit the Pickle Barrel Fudge Factory/Snack and Gift Shop which has over twenty-one flavors of fudge and offers free samples so you can choose your favorite. If you are looking for the perfect date spot, make sure you are driving the ideal car as well. Come visit us at Crain Kia of Conway and schedule a test drive today. Image via Pixabay.

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.