With the year coming to an end and another one beginning, you are likely setting some personal goals. One goal is to stay on top of your vehicle’s maintenance. In doing so, you will do everything possible to keep your Kia running strong all year. We recommend visiting your owner’s manual and reading the maintenance schedule. Beyond that, the following maintenance tips come in handy now and always.
Inspect the Fluids
Regular fluid checks are necessary for gas-powered vehicles. We know about timely oil and oil filter changes, but routinely check the following too:
- Transmission fluid
- Brake fluid
- Coolant
- Power steering fluid
- Windshield washer fluid
Pro tip: Even though most batteries no longer require adding water, we recommend checking the connections. If the battery is older than three years, there is a good chance you will need to replace it.
Examine the Tires
You should switch to winter tires if you live in Minnesota or Vermont. However, three-season (all-season) radial tires are fine for people living in warmer climates.
Inspect tire pressure and ensure it is the proper pounds per square inch (PSI) (check the numbers posted on the driver’s side door jamb or found in the owner’s manual). We recommend replacing tires once the wear bands begin showing or when tire depth falls below 2/32 of an inch. Finally, rotate the tires regularly and perform an alignment as needed.
Check the Lights
Your headlights and all other lights should be clear and free of debris. If they are burnt out, replace them immediately. Alos replace worn wiper blades to improve visibility, and ensure that the defroster is working and not causing cabin fog.
Brake Inspection
If your brakes begin to grind or squeal, it is time for a more thorough inspection. A brake professional can handle the job and will also check pads and rotors for signs of wear.
Worn brakes are unsafe and can have costly consequences, and the longer you wait, the more you’ll likely pay for repairs. Kia maintenance means anticipating trouble and heading it off before it occurs.
Wash and Wax the Vehicle
The best paint finish in the industry protects your Kia. However, as with any vehicle, regular washes and waxes are necessary.
We recommend washing and waxing your car before winter settles in. A coat of wax offers a special layer of protection from debris, rocks, dirt, and road treatment solutions. Remember to clean the trim, tires, seals, and weatherstripping. Also, consider how rust-proofing may prove helpful for older vehicles.
Emergency Kit and First Aid
Whether you travel far or stay near your home, outfitting your Kia with an emergency kit is crucial. We recommend you carry a flashlight with spare batteries, duct tape, jumper cables, a jumper pack, and an ice scraper or broom. If you traverse isolated Alabama roads prone to ice and snow, a bag of kitty litter or sand, along with a shovel, is most helpful for providing traction when needed. It might also be a good idea to consider bringing a blanket, warm clothes, and non-perishable foods with you.
No emergency kit is complete without a first-aid kit. This kit should include bandages, rubbing alcohol, iodine, scissors, plastic tweezers, disposable gloves, and gauze. If you regularly check medications, bring those with you as well, and keep all of these items in the cabin where you can reach them.
Fuel Tips
Cold weather makes starting vehicles more difficult on chilly Alabama mornings. Therefore, a fuel stabilizer and a fuel injector cleaner should be added for optimum performance. It’s also always a good idea to keep the gas tank at least half full during cold weather to prevent the fuel line from freezing.
Miscellaneous Items
Make sure your insurance policy is up to date and provides adequate coverage, and consider shopping around for better rates if you haven’t reviewed your options. Additionally, check that your vehicle registration and inspection are current.
Plan for any Kia repairs that may arise over the next year. If you don’t have a budget, create one that accounts for these potential expenses and avoid putting repair costs on credit whenever possible.
Happy Kia New Year
As always, drive safely and responsibly now and in the year ahead. Brush up on your defensive driving skills, particularly for handling ice and snow. Lastly, schedule your next check-up at Kia of Daphne, where our Kia Service Center is ready to keep your vehicle in top shape.
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Warranties include 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain and 5-year/60,000-mile basic. All warranties and roadside assistance are limited. See retailer for warranty details.