Key Takeaways:

• If your car is no longer being manufactured, finding replacement parts can be difficult, and buyers can face difficulties repairing it in the future.
• If you like unusual colors, remember that unusual or unpopular colors can make a vehicle harder to sell.
• When buyers consider buying a used car, they must know its history. Not knowing this information can lead to unwanted or costly surprises.
• Tires are one of a car’s most essential parts. Driving on worn-out tires is not only dangerous, but it also hurts the value of your vehicle.
• Being unaware of how your car gets devalued can lead to more severe consequences down the line.
• By learning about the things that devalue your car, you can avoid common mistakes and ensure that your vehicle retains its value for longer.

You may think that the only things that can hurt the value of your car are accidents, major repairs, or high mileage. However, several things can cause your vehicle to devalue, and sometimes without you even realizing it, you may depreciate your vehicle’s value.

Let’s discuss some of these things and explain how each one negatively affects the value of your car. So, suppose you’re considering selling or trading your vehicle in the near future. In that case, you can avoid these surprises and make more calculated decisions.

Factors That Reduce the Value of Your Car

1. Lack Of Replacement Parts

Suppose the parts for your car are no longer being manufactured. In that case, finding replacements can be difficult or even impossible. It reduces the value of your vehicle, as any buyer will be aware that they may have difficulty repairing it in the future.

2. Poor Resale Value

Some cars have poor resale value. If you own one such car model, it’s essential to know that it may not be worth as much as you think. Do some research before trade-in time so there are no surprises.

3. Unpopular Color

While you may love a bright paint job, it could hurt your car’s value. Unusual or unpopular colors can make a vehicle harder to sell. If you’re unsure what color to choose, consider something classic like white, black, or silver.

4. Excessive Mileage

If your car has racked up a lot of miles, it will be worth less than a comparable model with fewer miles. This is because vehicles driven more are also more likely to need repairs in the future. Try to keep your mileage low if you want to maintain a high value for your car.

5. Modifications

While some modifications can increase your car’s value, most will do the opposite. If you’ve changed your car’s engine or appearance, you’ll likely see a decrease in value when you sell it. This is because modifications can be difficult to undo and may not appeal to all buyers.

6. Wear And Tear

A car that’s in pristine condition is going to be worth more than one that’s covered in dents and scratches. If you want to maintain a high value for your car, it’s essential to take good care of it inside and out. It means regularly cleaning, fixing any damage as soon as it occurs, and avoiding excessive wear and tear.

7. Poor Maintenance

Not keeping up with regular maintenance will eventually cause problems in your car. This will cause its value to decrease, as potential buyers will be worried about the cost of repairs. Make sure you’re staying proactive about oil changes, tire rotations, and brake pad replacements to keep your car in top shape.

You might also hear these disturbing car noises if you ignore maintenance.

8. Accidents

Even if you’re a careful driver, accidents can happen. Getting the damage repaired immediately is essential if you get into an accident. Otherwise, the value of your car will go down significantly. Usually, it’s best to take your vehicle to a professional car dealership for repairs, as they’ll be able to restore it using genuine parts.

9. Smoking Inside the Car

If you smoke cigarettes, it’s best to do it outside of the car. The nicotine from cigarettes can stain the upholstery and cause a nasty smell that will be hard to eliminate. If you have to smoke inside the vehicle, make sure to crack a window to air it out afterward.

10. Using Old and Worn-Out Tires

Tires are one of a car’s most essential parts, as they keep you gripping the road. It’s vital to ensure they’re in good condition and have plenty of treads. Driving on old and worn-out tires is not only dangerous, but it can also hurt the value of your car.

11. Leaving Food and Drinks in The Car

Clean-up afterward is essential if you like to eat and drink in the car. Leaving food and drinks in the car can attract bugs and animals and stain the upholstery.

12. Not Washing the Car Regularly.

It’s essential to regularly wash your car to keep it looking its best. If you don’t wash it often, the dirt and grime will build up, making it look old and neglected. It can hurt the value of your car.

13. Allowing The Interior to Get Too Dirty

Your car’s interior should be kept clean for aesthetic and practical reasons. A dirty interior can make it difficult to see out of the windows and make the car smell bad. Allowing the interior to get too dirty can reduce your car’s value.

14. Driving Without Insurance

If you drive without insurance, you are taking a significant risk. Not only could you get into an accident and be held liable for damages, but you could also have your car impounded. For this reason, it is essential to have insurance.

15. Not Knowing the Car’s History.

When buyers consider buying a used car, they must know its history. It includes accidents, previous owners, and major repairs or replacements. Not knowing this information can lead to unwanted surprises for potential buyers.

How Can a Professional Car Dealership Help Prevent Your Car from Getting Devalued?

When you buy a car, it is an investment. You want to protect your investment and maintain its value for as long as possible. A car dealership can help you do this in several ways.

A car dealership will have a team of experienced professionals who can help keep your car in good condition. They can perform regular maintenance and repairs and advise avoiding common mistakes that can devalue your vehicle.

A professional car dealership will also have a reputation to uphold. It means they will only sell cars that are in good condition and have a history of being reliable. It will also help you retain your vehicle’s value for longer.

Suppose you are looking to sell your car. In that case, a professional car dealership can give you a fair and accurate valuation. It will help you to get the best price for your car and avoid being taken advantage of by private buyers.

Being unaware of how your car gets devalued can lead to more severe consequences down the line. By learning about these things, you can avoid common mistakes and ensure that your vehicle retains its value for longer.

Auffenberg Kia of Cape Girardeau provides top Kia models on special offers and extensive inventories of new and pre-owned models in Cape Girardeau, MO.

Visit our dealership today to learn more!

Key Takeaways:

1. Not all car noises indicate a serious problem, but you must address some of these noises immediately.
2. If your car gives off a high-pitched squealing noise when you brake, it’s most likely due to worn brake pads. These pads wear down and get thinner until they can’t do their job anymore
3. The power steering system uses hydraulic fluid to help turn the steering wheel easier. A leak in the system may cause the steering to feel stiff and make that squealing noise.
4. Consult a professional auto mechanic as soon as you sense a serious problem. Trying to fix it yourself may cause more harm than good.

Your car is quite complex – it comprises thousands of moving parts. So, it’s no surprise that sometimes things can go wrong. If your car starts to emit strange noises, it could be trying to tell you something.

Of course, not all car noises are created equal. Some are harmless and can be easily fixed, while others could indicate a more serious problem. You must pay attention to the type of car noise and when and where you hear it..

Read: 6 Sign It’s Time for a New Car

Here are some common car noises and what they might mean:

1. Grinding Or Squealing When You Brake

When your brakes grind or squeal, it’s an indication that the brake pads require replacement. Brake pads deliver friction to stop your vehicle. Since they experience wear and tear over time, periodic check-ups are necessary to avoid accidents.

When you hear this noise, take your car for service so a professional can examine the situation. This is a straightforward repair, but it’s important to do it before the pads wear down completely. Otherwise, you could damage your brake rotors, which would be much more expensive to fix.

2. Clunking When You Turn or Go Over Bumps

If you hear a clunking sound every time you turn the wheel or go over a bump, something is likely loose in the suspension. This could signify wear and tear on the shocks or struts, designed to absorb impact and keep the ride smooth. It could also indicate that a control arm or other suspension component is loose or damaged.

While it’s not usually an emergency, fixing it before the problem worsens is important. Otherwise, you could be in for a very bumpy ride.

3. Grinding When You Step on The Brakes

If your car rips a grinding sound when you brake, it’s most likely due to a problem with the brake rotors. The rotors are the large discs your brake pads clamp down on to stop the wheels from turning.

If the rotors get too worn, they can develop grooves or other imperfections. When this happens, the brake pads can’t make full contact with the rotors, which causes them to make that grinding noise.

Replacing the brake rotors may be the only solution. This can be a pretty expensive repair, so it’s important to catch it early.

4. Squealing When You Turn the Steering Wheel

If your car makes a squealing noise when you turn the steering wheel, it’s most likely due to a problem with the power steering belt. The power steering belt is a long, flat belt that runs from the engine to the power steering pump.

If the power steering belt gets too loose or worn, it can start to slip and squeal when you turn the steering wheel. This is usually an easy fix – you just need to have the power steering belt tightened or replaced.

5. Clicking Sound When You Turn The Ignition

If your car makes a clicking noise when you turn the key in the ignition, it could be a sign of a problem with the starter. The starter is a small electric motor that helps get the engine going.

If the starter is going bad, it can make a clicking noise when you turn the key in the ignition. This is usually an easy fix – you just need to replace the starter.

6. Rattling When You Drive Over Bumps

If your car rattles when you drive over bumps, it could be a sign of a problem with the suspension. Your suspension prevents your car from bouncing around when you drive over bumps.

If the suspension goes bad, it can make a rattling noise when you drive over bumps. This is usually an easy fix – you just need to have the suspension repaired or replaced.

7. Popping Or Crackling When You Turn on The Heat Or AC

Suppose your car’s heater or air conditioner is making a popping or crackling noise. In that case, it could signify a problem with the ductwork.

The ductwork is the system of pipes & vents that deliver hot or cold air from the heater or AC to the car’s interior. Leaks in the ductwork can cause the air to escape and make that popping or crackling noise.

To fix this problem, you’ll need to have the ductwork repaired or replaced by a mechanic.

8. A Whining Noise When You Accelerate

Whining noise when you accelerate could signal a problem with the engine. The engine is what powers your car.

If the engine goes bad, it can make a whining noise when accelerating. This is usually an easy fix – you just need to have the engine repaired or replaced.

Read: 9 Strange Car Noises

Conclusion

If your car makes any of these noises, be sure to take it to a mechanic to have it checked out. Ignoring these car noises may lead to more serious issues down the road.

Do you need your car serviced but don’t want to spend all day at the mechanic? Bring your car down to Auffenberg Kia of Cape Girardeau, serving McClure, IL; our team of experts will take care of it. We know it’s critical to get back on the road, so we’ll work quickly to get your car up and running again. Plus, we value transparency and clear communication, so you’ll always know what’s going on with your vehicle.

You won’t find a better service team for your Kia than ours. We’re passionate about cars and fixing them up, so you can rest assured that your car is in good hands.

Schedule a service appointment today!

Key Takeaways:

1. Leasing lets you drive the latest models for less money upfront than if you were to finance the vehicle.
2. When financing a car, you take out a loan to pay for the vehicle.
3. If you like to keep your leased car, you have the option to buy it at the end of the lease.
4. Both options are practical & doable if you make the payments on time.

If you plan to trade in your old car for a shiny new Kia, you’re making a great decision, and Kia has a great selection of vehicles to choose from. Since cars are getting expensive, deciding how to pay for them wisely is critical.

Both options have advantages and disadvantages; how do you know which is right for you? 

Leasing can be suitable if you want lower monthly payments and don’t mind giving up the vehicle ownership at the end of the lease term. However, you must be careful of mileage limits and wear-and-tear fees.

Financing can be a good option if you want to own the car outright and don’t mind higher monthly payments. However, you must be prepared for a larger down payment and higher interest rates.

Ultimately, your best option will depend on your specific needs and financial situation.

Read this blog post by Auffenberg Kia of Cape Girardeau to learn more about leasing vs. financing and find out which option is best for acquiring your dream Kia.

Car Financing: What You Need to Know

This is the most common method of car ownership. Financing a car involves taking a loan from a lender to pay for the vehicle. You’ll make monthly payments until the loan is paid, at which point the vehicle will be yours.

The primary benefit of financing an automobile is that you’ll eventually own it. Once the loan is paid off, you won’t have any more monthly payments to make (unless you choose to refinance the loan). And if you decide to sell the car, you’ll keep all the sales profits.

Reasons for Financing a Car!

You Can Build Equity:

One of the primary benefits of financing your vehicle is that you build equity in it. Equity is the portion of the car’s value that you own.

You May Get a Lower Interest Rate:

If you’ve good credit, you may be able to get a lower interest rate when you finance a car. A lower interest rate implies you’ll pay less in interest over the life of the loan, which can save you money.

You May Qualify for Incentives:

When you finance a car, you may qualify for certain incentives that are unavailable if you lease. For example, many automakers offer financing deals with low-interest rates or cash-back offers. These deals can save you money and make financing a more attractive option.

You Have More Vehicle Options:

You have more vehicle options when you finance a car than when you lease. This is because you can buy any car you want, regardless of whether it’s offered for lease.

You Can Sell the Car When the Loan is Paid Off:

When you finance a car, you own it. So, when you’re done with the automobile, you can sell it and get some of your money back. If you lease a car, you’ll have to turn it in at the end of the lease and will not be able to sell it.

Car Leasing: What You Need to Know

Leasing is like renting a car for a set period, typically two to four years. Like with financing, you’ll make monthly payments on the car, but with a lease, you’re only paying for the portion of the automobile’s value you use during your lease term.

Giving you an example may help clarify this concept.

Let’s say you want to lease a car valued at $20,000 and lease it for three years. This entails that you would only be paying for the portion of the car’s value that you used during those three years. So, if the car depreciates by $5,000 for those three years, you would only be paying for $15,000 worth of the car.

Reasons for Choosing this Option!

You Can Get a Brand-New Car Every Few Years

When you lease a car, you’re only paying for the portion of the car’s value that you use during the lease term. Once your lease is up, you may turn in the car and get a new one. This is perfect for people who like to have the latest car every few years.

You Don’t Have to Stress About Repairs or Maintenance

You’re only responsible for routine maintenance like oil changes and tire rotations when you lease a car. If anything significant goes wrong with your car, it’s covered by the warranty. This can save you a lot of money in repairs over the life of the lease.

You Can Get into A Nicer Ride Than You Could Afford to Buy

Leasing a car allows you to get into a nicer car than you could otherwise afford. This is because you’re only paying for the portion of the car’s value that you use during the lease. You’re not responsible for the car’s entire value like you would be if you bought it.

You Can Avoid a Down Payment

You generally don’t have to make a down payment when you lease a car. This can be helpful if you don’t have a lot of cash on hand.

You Have the Option to Buy the Car at The End of The Lease

If you decide that you love the car you’re leasing; you have the option to buy it at the end of the lease. This is called a purchase option. Remember that you may have to pay a fee to exercise this option.

Also Read: Financing a New Car in Cape Girardeau

Looking For a Ride in Tamms, IL? We Can Help!

Auffenberg Kia of Cape Girardeau offers our customers a wide range of car finance options in Tamms, IL. We understand that not everyone is looking to purchase a vehicle outright. That’s why we offer financing opportunities on all of our pre-owned vehicles. Schedule a test drive with us today!

Key Takeaways:

• Coolant and antifreeze keep the engine running at a consistent temperature by absorbing heat.
• Antifreeze, if used more than required, can damage an engine. It is important to use a corrosion-resistant coolant to protect your engine from rust and other damage.
• Different colors of engine coolant indicate the different chemical compositions of the fluid.
• Most engines require a 50:50 mix of antifreeze and water to run properly.

Kia engines use various cooling fluids, each with its specific function. Antifreeze and coolant are the most common radiator fluids that help keep the engine’s temperature stable.

The terms “antifreeze” and “engine coolant” are often used interchangeably, but there is a difference between the two. Antifreeze is a chemical additive that lowers the freezing point of water. On the other hand, engine coolant is a mixture of water and antifreeze.

In this blog post, we’ll be taking a closer look at the difference between antifreeze and engine coolant and how Kia cars use each one.

The Difference Between Antifreeze and Engine Coolant

While antifreeze and coolant are used to cool the engine, they work differently. Antifreeze is a glycol-based fluid that circulates through the radiator to keep the engine from overheating. On the other hand, engine coolant is a water-based fluid that circulates through the engine itself to absorb heat.

While both fluids are essential for cooling the engine, they serve different purposes and should be used in the correct ratios. It’s crucial to use the right fluid for each system to prevent damage to the engine.

Does the Color Matter?

Different colors of engine coolant indicate the different chemical compositions of the fluid. It doesn’t matter what color antifreeze you use if it is the right type for your car. The wrong kind of coolant can result in corrosion and scale build-up, damaging the engine.

Do not mix different types of coolant, as this can decrease the performance of the corrosion inhibitor. If you need to top off your coolant, make sure to use the same type that is already in the system.

How Are Kia Coolants Different?

Kia coolants have been tested to ensure compatibility with all the materials used in your engine. They are based on propylene glycol rather than ethylene glycol. This helps to reduce the risk of corrosion and doesn’t have the sweet smell that attracts animals, so it’s less likely to be ingested by pets or wildlife.

You should use only Kia-branded coolant in Kia vehicles. This is because Kia’s coolant has been designed specifically for Kia engines and contains a corrosion inhibitor that helps protect the engine.

However, if you cannot find a Kia-branded coolant, you can use another type of ethylene glycol-based coolant as long as it meets ASTM D3306 and D4985 standards and is compatible with Kia’s cooling system.

Antifreeze & Coolant: Which One Should I Use?

Antifreeze is a glycol-based fluid that prevents the engine from overheating by circulating through the radiator. It is important to use antifreeze to keep the engine from freezing in cold weather and boiling over in hot weather.

Engine coolant is a water-based fluid that circulates through the engine itself to absorb heat. It is important to use engine coolant to keep the engine from overheating.

The answer to this question depends on the climate you live in. If you live in a cold climate, it is important to use antifreeze to keep the engine from freezing. If you live in a hot climate, it is important to use engine coolant to keep the engine from boiling.

How Often Should I Check the Level of Coolant in My Car?

You should check the level of coolant/antifreeze in your engine regularly to ensure it is at the correct level. The frequency with which you should check the fluid depends on the fluid type and the manufacturer’s recommendations. Most coolants will need to be changed every two years or 30,000 miles, whichever comes first.

What Are the Signs That I Need to Change My Coolant/Antifreeze?

These signs indicate that your radiator is failing, and it is time to change your coolant/antifreeze:

• The coolant/antifreeze is dirty or rusty
• The coolant/antifreeze level is low
• The engine is overheating

Consult a professional mechanic if you’re unsure whether to change your coolant/antifreeze.

What’s the Correct Ratio?

If you live in an area with cold winters & hot summers, it’s best to use a 50:50 mix of antifreeze and water in your engine coolant. This will help to prevent the coolant from freezing and causing damage to the engine.

For extreme weather, you can slightly change the ratio of antifreeze as the temperature drops. For harsh winter, you can use 60 – 70 percent antifreeze in water to make the perfect combination of coolant.

Can I Use Water Instead of Coolant?

You can add water to your car coolant, but it’s not advisable to add too much water. Water will evaporate more quickly than the coolant, and it won’t be able to protect the engine from corrosion as effectively.

It’s also worth noting that most modern engines are designed to run on a 50:50 mix of antifreeze and water. So, if you need to top up your coolant, use a 50:50 mixture of antifreeze and water.

Conclusion

You need to mix water and antifreeze to keep your engine running properly. However, remember that most engines require a 50:50 mix of antifreeze and water. Antifreeze, by itself, can damage your engine. So, if you choose to use antifreeze, mix it with water too.

If you’re looking for a reliable service center, Auffenberg Kia of Cape Girardeau, serving Chaffee, MO, is the place to go. We have an extensive inventory of vehicles from some of today’s top automakers, and our expert team can help you find the perfect car for your needs. We offer services to keep your vehicle running like new, including coolant flush service, radiator fluid check, and more. Learn about our dealership and services by contacting us today!

Schedule a service now!

Tires play a critical role in the safety of your vehicle. They must be in good shape to provide traction, handling, and braking on icy or wet roads. They should also be replaced after a certain amount of time has passed.

But how can you tell when your tires need to be replaced and which are best for your KIA?

In this blog post, Auffenberg KIA of Cape Girardeau will discuss when to replace your car tires and how to snag the perfect tires for your KIA!

Should I change my car’s tire after a certain age?

The response to this query is a resounding “maybe”! Tires are made of rubber and other materials that naturally degrade over time.

However, the rate of this degradation will depend on numerous factors, such as:

• The quality of the tires when they were manufactured
• How often are they used
• The conditions in which they are driven (hot, cold, dry, wet, etc.)
• How they are stored

As a result, it is hard to give a definitive answer as to when your car’s tires should be replaced.

However, most experts believe you should, at the very least, get your tires checked annually to look for wear and tear.

Look for the following signs to know when to replace or change your tires:

• Tread depth is below the minimum legal limit
• Tires are cracked, torn, or otherwise damaged
• Tires are balding or have uneven wear
• Tires leak air

Of course, if you have any doubts, it is always best to consult with a professional.

How to find the ideal tires for your KIA?

You may be surprised to learn that there is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. The ideal tires for your KIA will rely on a variety of variables:

The KIA model you have:

Your particular KIA model is one of several available, ranging from cars to SUVs. The kind of tires you’ll require will depend on the make and model of your vehicle. For example, If you own a KIA Rio, you’ll need passenger car tires, whereas if you have a KIA Sorento, you’ll need SUV tires.

Your driving habits:

Are you a cautious driver who obeys the speed limit? Or are you a more aggressive driver who likes to push your KIA to its limits? Your driving habits will impact the kind of tires that work best for you.

The climate where you live and drive:

Are the roads in your area primarily dry? Do they frequently get icy or wet? The weather conditions where you live and drive will help to determine what type of tire is best suited for your vehicle. Tires designed for warm, dry climates may not perform well in cold, wet conditions. Tires designed for snowy or icy weather may not be ideal for use on hot, dry pavement.

Choosing the most appropriate tires can be a bit confusing for some. Auffenberg KIA of Cape Girardeau, serving Scott City, MO, can help with tire selection. We are committed to ensuring you receive tires that meet or exceed the requirements for your car.

We provide a price match guarantee, so our customers can be confident they’re getting the best deal.

Visit our tire store today!

When shopping for a new ride, you may come across the term “certified pre-owned.” What does this mean? Is it worth paying more for a certified pre-owned vehicle over a regular used one? In this post, we’ll explore what constitutes a certified pre-owned car and whether or not it’s the right choice for you.

What is a Certified Pre-Owned Vehicle?

These cars undergo a rigorous inspection process by the manufacturer or dealership. To obtain the required certification, a car must meet specific criteria set forth by the manufacturer. Once certified, an extended warranty from the manufacturer backs the car.

What is the Inspection Process?

To ensure that certified pre-owned cars meet the high standards set by the manufacturer, each vehicle must undergo a detailed inspection. The inspection process varies by manufacturer, but it typically includes a thorough inspection of the car’s interior and exterior and a test drive.

The interior inspection usually involves checking for wear and tear on the upholstery, carpets, and interior trim. The exterior inspection looks for signs of damage, such as dents, scratches, or rust.

During the test drive, the certified pre-owned car is put through its paces to ensure that it drives and handles well. If experts detect any issues with the used car, they will repair them before offering it for sale.

What Are the Benefits of a Certified Used Car?

Here’s what makes these cars worthy of all the hype:

Warranty

We all love ourselves a good warranty. And certified used cars come with one! When you purchase a certified pre-owned vehicle, you’re getting a like-new car with tested features and a warranty.

Easy to Insure

Thorough inspections and a detailed expert review mean insurance companies are not hesitant to cover the vehicle. Unlike other used car models, certified vehicles have an easier time getting insured.

Better Financing Options

A certified used car will have better financing options because lenders feel more confident about their investment. You may find that certified used cars have lower interest rates than new vehicles.

A Detailed History Report

When you buy a certified pre-owned vehicle, you’re provided with a complete history report detailing the previous driving history and major repairs the car has gone through. This is handy information to have when making your purchase decision.

A Better Resale Value

These vehicles tend to hold their value better than non-certified models. Knowing a car was certified recently convinces potential car buyers that the vehicle was well-cared for and is likely to continue running smoothly.

Certified pre-owned vehicles are an excellent option for anyone looking for a high-quality used car. At Auffenberg Kia of Cape Girardeau, serving Jackson, MO, we have an extensive inventory of certified pre-owned cars, trucks, and SUVs for interested buyers. We also offer competitive prices and financing options on all of our certified vehicles.

Browse our inventory online or visit us today to find your ideal vehicle!

It’s summer again – the weather is warming up, and it’s time to change your engine air filter! Many people forget to change their engine air filter regularly, leading to decreased performance and damage to the engine. In this blog post, Auffenberg Kia of Cape Girardeau will discuss the signs that tell you it’s officially time to replace or change your engine air filter.

What Is The Lifespan Of An Engine Air Filter?

An engine air filter will last around 20-30,000 miles. However, this figure may alter depending on driving behaviors and environmental factors. If you frequently drive in dusty or dry areas, you need to replace your engine air filter more often than someone who drives strictly on highways or in urban areas. Additionally, the engine air filter can also affect how often it needs to be changed.

Signs that it’s Time to Engine Air Filter:

Sign 01: Visual Inspection

 Normally, new air filters are white. Ask the mechanic to physically inspect your engine air filter to determine if it appears grimy or if it’s clogged with debris. Remember that occasionally particles that are too tiny to see might block an air filter. It’s time to replace the filter if you discover it’s gray or clogged with debris.

Sign 02: Decrease in Gas Mileage

One of the first signs that you need to change your engine air filter is a decrease in gas mileage. For a standard engine to operate well, there has to be sufficient airflow. The engine begins to work harder when the engine air filter becomes increasingly clogged over time because it is more difficult for air to pass through the engine. This can lead to a decrease in gas mileage of around 30 percent.

Sign 03: Misfiring Engine

If your engine is misfiring or you are having difficulty starting your car, it could be a sign that it’s time to change the engine air filter. Several factors can cause a misfiring engine, but one possibility is that the spark plugs are not getting enough oxygen. A clogged engine air filter can cause this lack of oxygen.

Sign 04: Check Engine Light is on

If the check engine light on your dashboard is illuminated, it could indicate various issues. It may be related to an issue with the engine’s air filter. The light may automatically come on if the filter is clogged and not enough air is getting to your engine. It’s crucial to pay attention to and not disregard this light. If neglected, it might lead to more serious issues.

Sign 05: Odd Engine Noises

If you notice any odd noises under the hood, it could signify that the engine air filter needs to be changed. These noises could include anything from a rattling sound to a change in the engine’s tone. If you’re unsure what’s normal for your car, consult the owner’s manual or ask a mechanic.

Need Assistance In Changing The Engine Air Filter?

Visit Auffenberg Kia of Cape Girardeau, serving McClure, IL. It makes no difference if your automobile only needs an air filter change or if more significant repairs are needed. We can’t wait to show you the caliber of our team!

Schedule your service today!

Driving in heavy rain at night can be treacherous. The darkness and the weather can combine to create extremely dangerous conditions. However, you can stay safe on the road with a few simple safe driving tips.

In this blog post, Auffenberg KIA of Cape Girardeau will discuss some tips for driving in heavy rain at night.

Tip 01: Check everything before heading out.

Before you even turn on your car, it’s important to check a few things. Make sure your car’s windshield wipers are in good working condition and that you have plenty of windshield wiper fluid.

It’s also wise to check your tires. In heavy rain, your tires can make the difference between staying on the road and hydroplaning. On slippery roads, balding tires may significantly diminish traction resulting in hydroplaning.

Lastly, check your air conditioning. Rain can cause the temperature outside to decrease, which increases the likelihood that your windows will fog up. Your A/C should be capable of keeping the temperature inside your car at the same level as the outside to prevent fogging.

Tip 02: Drive slow and stay below speed limits.

Although it may seem apparent, this point has to be made again. Driving too fast in heavy rain is a recipe for disaster. Not only will you have a hard time seeing, but you’re also more likely to lose control of your car. Avoid driving completely in severe weather if you can. However, if you must go outside, make careful to move slowly.

Tip 03: Keep hazard lights turned off and headlights on.

When your automobile is stopped on the side of the road, your hazard lights should be on. They convey to other drivers the need for caution. However, they may also be a distraction, so it’s better to leave them off when driving in a lot of rain. As for headlights, make sure they’re on so you can see and be seen by other drivers.

Tip 04: Avoid standing water.

Standing water is one of the biggest dangers of driving in heavy rain. Finding another route is best if you can’t see the ground through the water. Failure to remain safe on wet roads can result in hydroplaning.

It happens when your car’s tires begin to contact standing water rather than the road’s surface. Drivers start to hydroplane, which causes them to lose control of their cars. The driver may experience significant stress from feeling out of control.

Be sure to keep your calm at all times if you find yourself hydroplaning. Put your foot off the gas slowly and turn your automobile in the desired direction. Finally, avoid making any sharp bends or braking your car.

Tip 05: Don’t drive if you’re not comfortable.

If you don’t feel comfortable driving in certain weather conditions, don’t do it. Driving in heavy rain at night can be dangerous and stressful, not to mention the risk of hydroplaning, so only attempt it if you’re confident in your abilities. If not, wait until the weather clears up or find another way to get to your destination.

Always keep road safety as your first concern when driving in heavy rain at night. Following these safe driving tips can help ensure a safe and smooth journey.

Want to ensure that your car is ready for heavy rains?

Visit Auffenberg KIA of Cape Girardeau, serving Tamms, IL. We have experience working with KIA of all makes and models.

Schedule your service today!

It’s tough to know for sure when it’s time for a new car. After all, your current car has been with you through thick and thin. But there comes a time when even the most loyal car owners have to face the facts: it’s time for something new!

At Auffenberg Kia of Cape Girardeau, we offer top-quality Kia automobiles to all our customers in Chaffee, MO. Today, we will share the six telltale signs that it’s time for a new car.

1. You’re Constantly Repairing It

If you find yourself shelling out more and more money on repairs, it might be time to start afresh. Buying a new car will enable you to avoid these costly repairs and save money you may have uselessly spent on your old car.

2. Your Car is Not Safe Anymore

If your current vehicle is not up to par in terms of safety, it may be time to get a new one. At Auffenberg Kia of Cape Girardeau, we want all our customers to feel safe when driving, so if you are concerned about the safety of your loved ones when driving, it may be time for a new car.

3. Your Vehicle Doesn’t Fit Your Lifestyle

If you’ve recently had a lifestyle change, your car might be suitable any longer. For example, if you now have a family, you might need to upgrade to a bigger car or SUV.

4. You’re Just Plain Tired of It

It’s very natural for you to outgrow your car after a while. The tiredness comes from a few different places. It could be the way it looks, how old it is, or simply because you’ve driven it for too long. Buying a new car is great for switching things up and feeling excited about driving again.

5. You Need Something More Reliable

With your car aging, it becomes less reliable. Your car may have been with you for a while, but recently you have felt unease when driving it. Going for a new car may be your best bet if such is the case.

6. You’ve Become an Eco-Friendly Driver

If you weren’t too worried about the environment, you might never have had a change of heart. However, as we become more eco-conscious, we may look for vehicles with better fuel efficiency. If you would like to help protect the environment, ditching your old car for a hybrid or electric vehicle may be the way to go.

End Note:

So, if you’re wondering whether or not it’s time for a new car, consider these factors. If your car is beginning to show its age, becoming less reliable, or if you’ve changed your driving habits, it may be time to start shopping for a new set of wheels. Whether you’re looking for advanced tech features or planning on a hybrid or electric vehicle, a trusted dealership can always help.

At Auffenberg Kia of Cape Girardeau, serving Chaffee, MO, we’re here to help you find the perfect car for your needs. With our wide selection of brand new and pre-owned Kia models, you’re sure to find something perfect for your unique lifestyle.

Contact our team to know more!