Couple trying to catch a car key

What Is A Certified Pre-Owned Vehicle, And Should You Buy One?

Couple shaking hands with a sales representative

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!

Technician replacing air filter

5 Signs That Mean It’s Time To Change The Engine Air Filter!

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.

Technician replacing air filter
Technician replacing air filter

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!

Night Driving in the rain

Night Driving In The Rain – Here Are Tips To Guarantee Your Safety!

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.

Driving in the 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!

Front Quarter View of the 2023 Kia Soul

Watch the Stunning Exterior of the 2023 Kia Soul

Exterior Walkaround Video of the 2023 Kia Soul 

Are you excited about the 2023 Kia Soul? At Auffenberg Kia of Cape Girardeau, we cannot keep calm. If you are as intrigued as us by the third-generation hatchback, watch this exterior walkaround video of the 2023 Kia Soul plugged into this blog. Later, you can drop by our dealership in Cape Girardeau, MO, to test drive a Kia model of your choice and discuss your financing options with us. 

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Front View of the 2023 Kia Stinger

Which 2023 Vehicles are Now Available for Purchase in Cape Girardeau, MO?

Buy a New 2023 Vehicle in Cape Girardeau, MO 

A firmer chassis with improved efficiency and greater safety is the ideal combination that strikingly takes center stage in concept models. However, there’s more to the vehicles than these fundamental mechanical features, especially with the current technologies offering enhanced comfort and luxury. Do you want all this in a new vehicle at an affordable price? If you are looking to buy a new 2023 vehicle in Cape Girardeau, MO, Auffenberg Kia of Cape Girardeau is the right place, housing a wide selection of recently launched vehicles to deliver an unparalleled on-road experience. We welcome you to our dealership to check out the available models to see what suits your style and driving requirements. 

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Hand unlocking car with key

6 Signs That It’s Time For A New Car

Man holding a car key in hand

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!

Front Quarter View of the 2022 Kia Seltos

How to Reserve the 2022 Kia Seltos Online in Cape Girardeau, MO?

Buy the 2022 Kia Seltos in Cape Girardeau, MO

If you plan to buy a new SUV from Kia, one of the best choices is the 2022 Kia Seltos. Housing the latest technology, captivating design, and versatile nature, the 2022 Kia Seltos has won many hearts. This compact SUV is one of the most affordable SUVs in the lineup, with a starting MSRP of $22,590. If you want to learn more about reserving the 2022 Kia Seltos online in Cape Girardeau, MO, visit our website at Auffenberg Kia of Cape Girardeau.   

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Man looking at his overheated car

4 Signs You Need A New Radiator: How To Tell If Your Radiator Is Failing

mechanic pouring coolant flush in car

Your car’s radiator is essential for cooling the engine and preventing it from overheating. If your radiator fails, it can cause many problems for your vehicle. Auffenberg Kia of Cape Girardeau will discuss four signs that indicate you need a new radiator. We’ll also provide tips for detecting if your radiator is failing and what to do about it.

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Dashboard View in a Kia

Where can I find cars with Apple CarPlay®/Android Auto™ near Cape Girardeau, MO?

Vehicles with Apple CarPlay®/Android Autoâ„¢ near Cape Girardeau, MO 

If you’re looking for vehicles with Apple CarPlay®/Android Autoâ„¢ near Cape Girardeau, MO, you’re at the right place. At Auffenberg Kia of Cape Girardeau, you can choose from a range of capable Kia models loaded with advanced technological advancements, including Apple CarPlay® and Android Autoâ„¢. Whether you want to buy a sedan or an SUV, you’ll find all kinds of vehicles at our dealership. Moreover, if you want to take a car out for a spin before purchasing it, you can even do so by scheduling a test drive on our website. Alternatively, you can contact us by clicking the button below to learn about the features and amenities of your favorite Kia model. 

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Understanding Automatics – The Gear Shift Symbols

Transmission in a Car

For all of you who have just bought yourselves a brand new automatic, we’re here to tell you what those numbers on the shifter mean! It can be confusing at first when trying to figure out what gear your car is in, but with this guide, it will be a breeze.

Each number on the auto gear shifter corresponds to a certain gear; by memorizing them, you’ll never have to guess again. So, buckle up, and let’s get started!

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