Category Archives: Service

Hands of a person working on a vehicle

What are the Common Kia Maintenance Issues?

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Posted in Service, Tips & Tricks

Common Kia Vehicle Maintenance Problems Explained  

Regular maintenance keeps your vehicle running smoothly, prolongs its lifespan, and prevents expensive breakdowns. Ignoring routine service can lead to unexpected surprises that can easily be avoided properly. What are the common Kia maintenance issues that you should watch out for? Identifying these issues early can save you time, money, and frustration in the long run. At Auffenberg Kia of Cape Girardeau in Cape Girardeau, MO, we’re here to assist you with professional service to ensure your Kia stays in top condition. Let’s dive into some common Kia maintenance problems and how to avoid them.  

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A vehicle's rust

How to Protect My Kia Vehicle from Rust

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Posted in Service

Protecting Your Kia from Rust: What You Need to Know  

Rust can significantly threaten the longevity and appearance of your Kia vehicle. By taking proactive measures, you can safeguard your investment and ensure it remains in top condition for years. At Auffenberg Kia of Cape Girardeau in Cape Girardeau, MO, we offer comprehensive rust protection services designed to keep your car looking its best and performing optimally. Whether you’re driving a brand-new Kia or an older model, our expert team is here to help you maintain your vehicle’s integrity and value.  

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Car mechanic repairing car brakes in car service

5 Tips To Maintain Your Kia Vehicle

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Posted in Service

What are the Best Ways to Maintain Your Kia Vehicle?  

Maintaining your Kia vehicle is essential to ensure its longevity, performance, and safety. Regular maintenance can prevent costly repairs, enhance fuel efficiency, and keep your vehicle running smoothly. You can keep your Kia in top condition by following a few simple tips. If you’re wondering, “What are the best ways to maintain your Kia vehicle?” This blog post will provide valuable insights. Plus, for professional maintenance and service, you can always rely on the expert team at Car Pros Kia Tacoma in Tacoma, WA. 

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A mechanic inspecting under the hood of a vehicle

Top Service Specials at Auffenberg Kia of Cape Girardeau

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Posted in Service

Discover the Best Service Specials at Auffenberg Kia of Cape Girardeau  

Maintaining your vehicle’s performance and longevity is crucial. Auffenberg Kia of Cape Girardeau in Cape Girardeau, MO, makes it easier than ever with their exceptional service specials. Whether you need routine maintenance or more comprehensive repairs, our dealership offers a variety of deals designed to meet your needs without straining your budget. Discover the best service specials at our dealership and keep your vehicle running smoothly and safely.  

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Hands of a man pouring coolant

Where Can I Find the Necessary Service Fluids for My Kia Vehicle in Cape Girardeau, MO?

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Posted in Service

Shop for Service Fluids for My Kia Vehicle in Cape Girardeau, MO  

Ensuring your Kia vehicle runs smoothly and efficiently requires attention to detail, especially when it comes to service fluids. From engine oil to transmission fluid, these essential liquids play a vital role in maintaining your vehicle’s performance and longevity. At Auffenberg Kia of Cape Girardeau in Cape Girardeau, MO, we understand the importance of quality service fluids for your Kia. Continue reading and learn about our top-notch products and services to keep your vehicle running at its best.  

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Professional Brake Repair at Your Kia Dealer

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Posted in Blog, FAQ, How To, Service

When you take good care of your car’s brakes, your brakes will take good care of you and your passengers. Along with routine brake servicing at your local Kia dealership, it’s also important to respond quickly to any kind of brake problem. The following warning signs usually mean you should see a technician for brake repair right away.

When To Get Professional Brake Repair at Your Kia Dealer

Blinking Brake Light

Most brake issues will cause the brake warning light to appear on your instrument panel. This light either reminds you to have your brakes serviced or indicates a problem in need of brake repair. In some cars, the brake light will specify the part in need of attention, such as worn-out brake pads or low brake fluid. Your owner’s manual will contain an explanation of each type of brake light. 

High-Pitched Squealing

Brake pads can last anywhere from 25,000 to 65,000 miles, depending on how much you use them. When the friction layer of a brake pad is almost entirely worn away, the pad will usually start emitting a high-pitched squealing sound. This noise is generated by design to let you know that it’s time for a new brake pad at your nearest Kia dealer. It’s important to replace brake pads promptly before the friction layer wears away entirely. 

Rhythmic Vibrations 

Rotor discs are generally tougher than brake pads and tend to last from 30,000 to 70,000 miles. When the surface of a rotor becomes uneven or damaged, you’ll start feeling unusual rhythmic vibrations through the brake pedal and maybe also through the steering wheel. It’s occasionally possible to restore a warped rotor with resurfacing, unless the rotor is too old, thin, or misshapen for continued safe use. 

Longer Stopping Distances

Weakened stopping power is a clear indication of brake trouble and should never be ignored. If you find that the brake pedal is no longer stopping your car as promptly, you might have overly worn pads, brake fluid issues, a malfunctioning brake booster or master cylinder, or temporary brake fade from overheating. 

This last problem can sometimes occur when rotors and pads reach extreme temperatures through prolonged overuse. If you ever suspect that you’re experiencing brake fade, pull over safely and allow your brakes to cool down. Once cool, if your stopping force is still weak, head to your local Kia dealership for brake repair. 

Car Veering to One Side 

When a problem occurs in the front brake mechanisms, you may find your car pulling to the side when you press the pedal. This usually means the brakes on just one side of your vehicle are malfunctioning. The one-sided decreased brake force will cause the vehicle to veer slightly in the opposite direction. This is a threat to your handling and safety and should prompt immediate brake repair.

Soft or Spongy Brake Pedal

Each time you use your brakes, hydraulic pressure is required to deliver the stopping signal from the brake pedal to the calipers at each wheel. This hydraulic pressure is maintained by both the master cylinder and the brake fluid inside the brake lines. If either one experiences a problem, your brake pedal might feel soft and spongy underfoot; your car’s stopping power might also reduce. 

If your brake pedal ever feels spongy, it’s best to pull over and try to figure out the source of the problem. You can search under your car for signs of leaking brake fluid, which is a clear yellow or honey-gold liquid that darkens to brown as it ages. Whether or not you find signs of a leak, you’ll probably need a technician at your local Kia dealer to carry out brake repair before your car is safe to use again. 

Heavy Metallic Grinding

A gritty, metal-on-metal grinding noise is never a good sign when it comes to brakes. The most common cause of grinding is when a brake pad has worn out completely, exposing the pad’s metal backing, which is now scraping directly against the brake rotor. This won’t be generating as much stopping power as usual and can cause serious damage to the rotor. 

Grinding might also be caused by a misaligned rotor scraping against the caliper, stones or loose components trapped inside the caliper, or an issue with your anti-lock braking system. Once again, you’ll most likely need a technician at your Kia dealer to diagnose and fix the problem. 

Driving Habits That Wear Brakes Out Faster

Another important aspect of good brake care is avoiding driving habits that put undue pressure on your brakes. This might include driving too close to the vehicle ahead, which would sometimes force you to suddenly slam on the brakes. Drivers who use the gas pedal too much also need to compensate with excessive braking. 

Overusing high gears also means you need to brake more than necessary; low gears naturally slow your car down. This is particularly useful on steep stretches of the road, when a lower gear might do more to control your car’s speed than continual use of the brake pedal. Increasing the weight of your car with heavy loads or trailers also naturally accelerates brake wear. 

Visit Your Kia Dealer for Brake Servicing Twice a Year

The two most dangerous brake-related habits of all are failing to replace worn-out brake components and neglecting to have your brakes periodically serviced. Full brake servicing involves checking and sometimes flushing the brake fluid, inspecting brake lines for leaks, removing the pads, rotors, and calipers to examine, clean, lubricate, adjust, repair, or replace them, and more besides. 

Visit Auffenberg Kia of Cape Girardeau in Cape Girardeau, MO, today to have your brakes repaired or serviced by qualified professionals. We’re a local community-oriented dealership that’s been serving the region’s drivers with excellent cars and customer service since 1989.

Hands of a man cleaning a car

Where Can I Schedule Vehicle Service in Cape Girardeau, MO?

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Posted in Service

Vehicle Service and Maintenance in Cape Girardeau, MO  

Keeping your vehicle in top-notch condition is not just about ensuring a smooth ride; it’s also about safety and longevity. Regular vehicle service and maintenance are crucial in preserving your car’s performance and preventing potential breakdowns. Here at Auffenberg Kia of Cape Girardeau in Cape Girardeau, MO, we understand the importance of maintaining your vehicle, and we’re dedicated to providing exceptional service to keep your car running smoothly for years to come.  

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A mechanic working on a tire

Why and When to Rotate Your Tires?

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Posted in Service

How Often Should I Rotate My Tires, and What Are the Benefits?   

Ensuring your vehicle’s tires are properly maintained is crucial for safety and road performance. One essential aspect of tire maintenance is rotation. Tire rotation involves moving tires from one position on a vehicle to another, promoting even wear and extending the lifespan of your tires. Here at Auffenberg Kia of Cape Girardeau in Cape Girardeau, MO, we understand the importance of tire rotation in maintaining optimal vehicle performance. Our expert technicians are here to provide top-notch tire rotation services to keep you rolling smoothly on the roads.   

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Expert Oil Change Services at Your Kia Dealership

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Posted in Blog, How To, Kia, Service, Tips & Tricks

Your Kia is a sophisticated and hardworking machine. You rely on it for everything from zipping around town to helping you haul what you need for a weekend adventure. Just like any complex piece of machinery, it needs regular care to ensure it keeps performing its best for years to come, so a simple oil change at your Kia dealer can do a lot. Here’s how.

Expert Oil Change Services at Your Kia Dealer

Why’s This So Important?

This vital fluid first acts as a lubricant, creating a thin film between moving engine parts. Imagine gears grinding against each other without that grease: it wouldn’t take long for things to go wrong. Oil prevents a lot of wear and tear, allowing for smoother operation and extending the lifespan of your engine.

Additionally, as oil circulates through the engine, it carries away heat, protecting all the components from the damaging effects of overheating. Finally, motor oil even acts as a sort of cleaning agent by trapping dirt and debris that could otherwise clog engine passages and lead to breakdowns.

Why Does It Need to Be Changed?

Over time, heat, friction, and contaminants take their toll on your oil. It becomes less effective at doing its job, and the consequences begin to impact those hardworking engine components. The recommended interval for changes varies depending on your specific Kia model, the type of oil you use, and your driving habits. Consulting your owner’s manual for your Kia’s recommended interval is always a good place to start. You can also come talk to us as your Kia dealer, and we’ll help you learn the right intervals for your model and driving habits.  

A general rule of thumb is to change your oil every 7,500 to 10,000 miles for synthetic oil, which is what we’ll generally use for your vehicle. If you frequently drive in harsh conditions, such as extreme temperatures, heavy traffic, or by towing a trailer, you may need to change your oil more often.

The Signs of Neglected Oil

While your Kia may try to tell you it needs help with a dashboard warning light, don’t rely solely on that indicator, as there are a few other symptoms that you’re overdue for changing your oil. For example, if you notice increased tapping or knocking sounds from your engine, it could signal that the oil isn’t providing sufficient lubrication, causing parts to wear against each other.

Additionally, get in the habit of checking your oil dipstick periodically. There are two benefits here. First, if the oil looks black and thick instead of a translucent amber color, it’s time for a change. That dark look is a sign that the oil is filling up with metal shavings and particles, reducing its efficiency. This, in turn, makes your engine work harder, leading to decreased fuel efficiency and more trips to the gas pump.

Checking the dipstick will also let you know if you’ve burnt off too much oil and your levels are getting low. That can happen after a long trip, for example. Finally, if you notice an oil smell inside the car, see smoke coming from the engine, or see a slick of oil under your car in the driveway when you pull away, it could be a sign of a leak: another issue that can be worsened by neglecting regular oil maintenance.

The Cost of Skipping Those Changes

Ignoring these tell-tale signs can have serious and costly consequences for your Kia. When lubrication breaks down, friction increases, causing premature wear on vital engine parts. This wear could lead to damage within the pistons, bearings, camshaft, and more, and these are all components that are expensive to repair or replace.

In extreme cases, neglecting to get fresh oil for long enough can result in total engine seizure. “Engine seizure” means the engine simply locks up while you’re driving. Not only is this a major safety issue, but it also means you’ll be facing the prospect of having to get an entirely new engine, which is a repair that can easily run into the thousands of dollars. In some cases, it’s easier to just get a new car entirely than try to fix this!

By comparison, a simple oil swap-out is a quick and affordable investment in your Kia’s health and protects you from these costly issues. It’s essentially preventative maintenance that can save you from major headaches and expenses down the road. It’s the car equivalent of brushing your teeth: a small, regular habit that prevents major problems later!

The Benefits of Regular Changes at the Kia Dealer

It’s not just about avoiding the costs that come with skipping changes. You also get some pretty nice benefits, too! For one, fresh, clean oil ensures that your engine stays well-lubricated, translating to a longer-lasting and healthier engine. A smoothly running engine also means better performance on the road, and you’re likely to notice better acceleration and responsiveness.

Why Choose Your Kia Dealer for Oil Changes?

We know you’ve been tempted by those “quick oil change” places, but there are advantages to trusting your Kia’s care to us at Auffenberg Kia of Cape Girardeau. For one, we use genuine Kia oil filters designed specifically for your car, ensuring they trap more debris and keep your engine cleaner for longer periods. Check out our service specials, too, which regularly offer you ways to save on vital services and parts.

Perhaps most important, though, during your oil change our technicians perform a thorough inspection. Since our techs are thoroughly conversant with all things Kia, what that means is they know exactly what to check. They know the “quirks” of every model in a way that no general mechanic ever can.

Schedule Service at Your Kia Dealer Today

If it’s time to get your oil changed out, contact us at Auffenberg Kia of Cape Girardeau and set up a service appointment!

Wheels of a vehicle on snowy road

5 Tips to Prepare Your Vehicle for Winter in Cape Girardeau, MO

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Posted in Service, Tips & Tricks

Top 5 Ways to Get Your Vehicle Winter Ready in Cape Girardeau, MO  

As winter approaches in Cape Girardeau, Missouri, vehicle care is paramount. You must ensure your vehicle is ready to face the challenges of colder temperatures, snow, and ice. Preparing your car for the winter season can help you stay safe on the road and prevent breakdowns. In this blog by the Auffenberg Kia of Cape Girardeau, we’ll discuss five tips to get your vehicle ready for the winter.  

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