Category Archives: Tips & Tricks

Side view of the tires of a car

Why Regular Kia Service is Essential for Peak Performance

Unlock Peak Performance with Timely Kia Service Appointments  

Regular maintenance is one of the smartest ways to keep your Kia running strong for years. From improved fuel economy to a smoother ride, routine servicing plays a major role in maintaining your vehicle’s reliability and performance. Skipping scheduled service visits can lead to unexpected repairs and higher costs. At Auffenberg Kia of Cape Girardeau in Cape Girardeau, MO, our skilled technicians are ready to help you stay on track. Continue reading below and learn about the benefits of regular Kia vehicle service.  

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New Kia Sorento exterior side view

Top Kia Accessories to Enhance Your Driving Experience  

Drive Smarter with These Top Kia Accessories  

Enhancing your Kia with the right accessories can elevate your driving experience, making every journey more convenient, comfortable, and enjoyable. Whether you’re looking for advanced tech, stylish upgrades, or practical add-ons, Kia offers a variety of accessories designed to meet your needs. From all-weather floor mats to wireless charging pads, these enhancements provide added protection, improved connectivity, and a personalized touch to your vehicle. Explore the latest Kia accessories and find the perfect fit for your car at Auffenberg Kia of Cape Girardeau in Cape Girardeau, MO.  

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Hands of a person working on a vehicle

What are the Common Kia Maintenance Issues?

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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2025 Kia Carnival Hybrid exterior rear side view

Understanding the Differences Between (FWD), (RWD), (AWD), and (4WD) Drivetrains

Which Drivetrain Is Best? A Guide to FWD, RWD, AWD, and 4WD  

Choosing the right drivetrain is key to finding a vehicle that suits your driving needs. From fuel efficiency to off-road capability, the type of drivetrain plays a critical role in determining how your car performs in different conditions. Understanding the differences between front-wheel drive (FWD), rear-wheel drive (RWD), all-wheel drive (AWD), and four-wheel drive (4WD) helps ensure that you pick the best option for your lifestyle. For those in the market for a new Kia vehicle, Auffenberg Kia of Cape Girardeau in Cape Girardeau, MO, offers a wide selection with various drivetrains to fit your needs.  

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2024 Kia EV9 exterior side look

Where Can I Shop for Kia Vehicles with Rearview Camera in Cape Girardeau, MO?

Shop for Kia Vehicles with Rearview Camera in Cape Girardeau, MO  

Kia vehicles equipped with rearview cameras enhance the driving experience by improving safety and convenience. These advanced cameras provide drivers with a clear view of what’s behind them, reducing blind spots and making parking and reversing much easier. If you’re considering purchasing a Kia vehicle with a rearview camera, look no further than the Auffenberg Kia of Cape Girardeau. Located in Cape Girardeau, MO, our dealership offers a wide range of Kia models with this essential feature.  

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A family inside a car

How to Prepare for a Long Drive

Tips for Driving Long Distance  

Planning a long drive can be an exciting adventure or a necessary journey. Proper preparation is crucial to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip, especially in your reliable Kia vehicle. Whether you’re planning a cross-country road trip or a long-distance drive for business, taking the time to prepare can make all the difference. At Auffenberg Kia of Cape Girardeau in Cape Girardeau, MO, we are dedicated to helping you prepare for your trip. Here are some essential tips for driving long distances and ensuring your Kia is ready for the road.  

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Expert Oil Change Services at Your Kia Dealership

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!

Several parts of a vehicle on a table

Where Can I Find Genuine Kia Parts Near Me?  

Shop for Genuine Kia Parts in Cape Girardeau, MO  

When it comes to maintaining your Kia vehicle’s optimal performance and longevity, there’s no substitute for genuine Kia parts. Investing in authentic components ensures reliability, durability, and compatibility with your vehicle, offering peace of mind and superior performance on the road. At Auffenberg Kia of Cape Girardeau in Cape Girardeau, MO, we understand the importance of using genuine parts. We’re committed to providing our customers with top-quality components to keep their Kia running smoothly. In this blog, let’s learn about the key benefits of buying genuine Kia parts.   

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2024 Kia EV6 exterior side looks

A Comprehensive Look at the Advantages of Electric Vehicle Service  

Top 5 Benefits of Electric Vehicle Service  

As our world transitions towards a sustainable future, electric vehicles (EVs) have emerged as a player in the automotive industry, offering an eco-friendly alternative to traditional gas-powered cars. Beyond their environmental benefits, the advantages of electric vehicle service extend far and wide, making them an attractive option for conscientious consumers. At Auffenberg Kia of Cape Girardeau in Cape Girardeau, MO, we proudly endorse the shift towards greener transportation.  

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car battery life

Car Battery Maintenance: Tips for Longevity

Key Takeaways:

  • Regularly inspect and clean battery terminals.
  • Choose the correct battery type for your vehicle.
  • Monitor and balance electronic accessory usage.
  • Adapt maintenance practices to seasonal changes.
  • Avoid short trips and manage driving habits for car battery maintenance.
  • Be vigilant about parasitic drains.
  • Store and maintain the battery properly during extended inactivity.
  • Recognize warning signs of battery failure.

Coursing through the veins of modern vehicles, the car battery stands as a silent but indispensable force, empowering our daily commutes and adventures. Yet, despite its pivotal role, the maintenance of this unassuming powerhouse often remains overlooked until it’s too late.

Your vehicle’s battery really is the heart of its electrical system, which is precisely why every car owner should pay attention to it.

Understanding the nuances of car battery maintenance is critical to prolonging its life and ensuring reliability. If you’re seeking professional assistance, visit Auffenberg Kia of Cape Girardeau for expert car battery maintenance services.

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