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!