Front View of the 2023 Kia Sportage

15 Surprising Things That Can Hurt Your Car’s Value

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Posted in Dealership

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.

15. Not Knowing the Car's History.

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!

Kia Digital Key

Where Can I Buy a New Vehicle with Digital Key Feature in Cape Girardeau, MO?

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Posted in Kia, Kia Niro, Kia Telluride, Technology

Vehicles with the Digital Key Feature in Cape Girardeau, MO 

Have you been in search of vehicles with the digital key feature in Cape Girardeau, MO? We have the ones suitable for your requirements, including easy access to the trunk and seats. This technology’s integration into the latest Kia vehicles has made the experience less of a hassle for drivers across the country. Several high-end and base models in the current lineup of many brands offer this feature, but Kia packages its vehicles with a smart key to lock and unlock the vehicle remotely. If the 2023 Kia models with a digital key appeal to you with more than just this feature, make sure to check them out at Auffenberg Kia of Cape Girardeau in Cape Girardeau, MO. Get in touch with our team to learn more about the latest Kia models available in our inventory. 

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person's hands on steering wheel

Common Car Noises That Could Mean Trouble!

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Posted in Service & Parts

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

Wheel Alignment

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!

Vehicle Inspection

Where in Cape Girardeau, MO, can I service my Kia Vehicle?

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Posted in Service & Parts

Affordable Service for Your Kia Vehicles in Cape Girardeau, MO

Getting your vehicles checked once in a while for any possible maintenance issues or missing functions is imperative. But you need a trustworthy and reliable service station to get started. At Auffenberg Kia of Cape Girardeau in  Cape Girardeau, MO, we offer quality services for your vehicle at an affordable cost. Keep reading to know more.

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Car Financing

Find out How You Can Get Auto Financing Despite Bad Credit in Cape Girardeau, MO!

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Posted in FAQ, Finance

Can I Get Bad Credit Car Financing in Cape Girardeau, MO?  

We all want that shiny-new vehicle like the 2023 Kia Sportage in our driveway, but sometimes it can get a little tricky. We may not have a desirable credit situation that allows us to go forward with such a purchase. However, if you are a resident of Cape Girardeau, MO, or a nearby area, you need not worry. We at Auffenberg Kia of Cape Girardeau have a path laid for you so that you can get an auto loan despite your bad credit situation. Take a look at this blog post to find out more about it.   

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Couple leasing a car

Leasing Vs. Financing: How To Get Your Dream Kia

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Posted in Finance
piggy bank in car

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.

man shaking hand with a representative

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!

Technician performing oil change

Where in Cape Girardeau, MO, can I get an oil change for my car?

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Posted in Service & Parts

Importance of Oil Change Services  

Getting your car’s oil changed regularly – every six months is essential. If it’s been longer than that since your last oil change, visit a service center as soon as possible. Regular oil changes are key to keeping your vehicle running efficiently and ensuring that your engine stays healthy and lasts a long time. At Auffenberg Kia Cape Girardeau, in Cape Girardeau, MO, we provide full-service oil changes for your Kia vehicle. Our highly skilled and experienced professionals use high-quality motor oil to improve the lifespan and performance of your car. We’re dedicated to providing the best possible service for our customers. 

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man showing a key

Sell or Trade-in Your Old Vehicle and Buy a New One at Auffenberg Kia of Cape Girardeau!

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Posted in Kia

Where Can I Sell or Trade a Vehicle in Cape Girardeau, MO?  

When you decide to buy a new vehicle, it is always an exciting time for you and your family. However, apart from the challenge of choosing the suitable model to buy, another problem you may face is where to sell or trade in your current vehicle. If you are a resident of Cape Girardeau, CO, you need not worry. We at Auffenberg Kia Cape Girardeau have this blog post where we tell you how you can sell your old vehicle at our dealership!  

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engine overheating

Antifreeze Vs. Engine Coolant: The Kia Experience

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Posted in Service & Parts
Pouring of coolant into the engine

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!