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No one wants to hear the click-click of an engine that won't start. It's also something that will always happen at the worst time. While there are several possible reasons that your car won't start, the most common is a dead battery. Car batteries have a limited life and will need to be replaced. When you need a new car battery, you're in safe hands with your Kia dealer. These are some of the signs that your battery has failed. Dim Headlights When your car's engine is switched off, your battery supplies the power for the various components that require a continuous power supply. Some of these components include the dash lights, headlights, and car alarm system. Your battery draws down its power supplying these components, but the battery should be recharged when your engine is running again. If you switch on your headlights, and they shine brightly, your car battery should be in good condition. If the headlights seem dimmer than they should be, this means that your battery doesn't have enough power to supply the lights with a full charge. If your headlights are dim, you should bring your car into our service department so we can test your battery. Engine Won't Start The click-click sound when you turn the key means that your engine isn't receiving the electrical charge needed to crank the engine. This could be because you have a dead battery, a failed alternator, or even a damaged starter solenoid. You can test this by jump-starting your car. Attach the jumper cables to the battery terminals, and remove them as soon as your engine starts. If your engine doesn't start, the starter solenoid is damaged, and we can quickly replace that. If your engine starts and then dies almost immediately, this means that your alternator has failed. Your battery depends on the alternator to recharge it, and a failed alternator won't produce any electricity. Once the external electrical supply is withdrawn, your battery will fail. If your engine continues to run, then the most likely cause of the problem is a dead battery. Parasitic Drain This strange problem can drain your battery overnight. It isn't caused by a battery fault, it's caused by an electrical component that doesn't switch off when it should. It's very easy to see if you've left the interior lights on, but a parasitic drain has a less obvious cause. Prime candidates for draining power are the trunk lights and the glove box lights. These lights should automatically switch off when their compartment lids are closed, but a wiring fault can cause them to stay on. Although these lights are small, they can very quickly drain your battery. Our technicians can trace and repair the fault. Your car battery will start showing signs of aging, and this gives you time to plan for its replacement. Call our service center at Crain Kia of Bentonville, and our trained technicians fit a new battery for you. Image via Kia.

A car's transmission works constantly and is subject to more wear than any other mechanical component. It's responsible for ensuring that the right amount of power is transferred from your engine to your wheels. A transmission is tough and built to last, but it can sustain damage. If you're in Bentonville, AR and you need a transmission repair, your friendly Kia dealer is the place to go. These are some of the signs that you may need a repair. Fluid Leak Transmission fluid fills the transmission and has three main functions. The fluid lubricates all of the parts that make up the transmission, it reduces the heat in the transmission and acts as a hydraulic fluid to allow for gear shifts. All of these functions are very important, and without this fluid your transmission to overheat and possibly seize up. The transmission fluid is red, and if you suspect it's leaking out, call our technicians right away. Strange Sounds Any unusual sound from your engine should always be checked ASAP, as it's a sign that something is wrong. Buzzing, whining, humming, or clunking is all odd sounds you may hear if your transmission is having trouble. Automatic vehicles make buzzing, whining, or humming sounds, and a harsh clunking from a manual transmission means it needs to be checked right away. Our technicians will investigate, and we can repair any problem with your transmission. Burning Smell A burning rubber smell can be a sign that one of your belts is loose, or if it's coming from the transmission it means that the fluid needs to be changed. Transmission fluid is red and viscous, but as it flows around the transmission it can accumulate detritus which causes it to become thicker. It's time, if the fluid isn't changed regularly, it will turn brown. Older fluid also loses its heat-reduction capability and it can start to burn. Slipping and Grinding A jerking feeling when you shift gears, or grinding sounds from the transmission are signs that you need to visit our service center. The grinding sound is common in a manual transmission when it is taking strain, and the solution may be as simple as topping up the transmission fluid. A slipping feel is common with automatic transmissions, as the transmission seems to hesitate between shifting into a new gear. Check Engine Light A lit-up check engine light doesn't necessarily mean your transmission is faulty, but it is a sign that something isn't working correctly. We always advise that you contact us if the light comes on and stays on, as the sooner we can find repair the problem. Repairs to a transmission don't have to be expensive, but the sooner they can be checked for a fault the better. Early detection of a problem saves you time and money. If you experience any problem with your transmission, call us immediately at Crain Kia of Bentonville and our technicians will fix it. Image via Kia.

New vehicles found at your Kia dealer are equipped with all sorts of innovative technology designed to make the road a safer place for yourself and your passengers. Here are some of the car safety features that will protect you when you're driving a Kia. 1. High-Strength Iso-Structure Frame Keeping Kia drivers and their passengers safe starts with the protective Iso-Structure construction used in every Kia vehicle. High-strength steel is used to create a rigid frame with advanced manufacturing techniques used to increase body integrity. 2. Multiple Advanced Airbags A high-strength steel frame isn't all that surrounds you when you climb aboard your Kia; you'll also have a number of advanced airbags between you and anything that could harm you. Dual front airbags, side-curtain airbags for all rows of seating, and more will all deploy in the event of an accident to reduce your risk of injury. 3. Active Safety Features Stay in complete control of your vehicle at all times with the assistance provided by the advanced system of active safety technology Kia includes in their vehicles. Features such as the traction control systems and electronic stability control help you feel confident even on slippery or uneven roads. 4. Blind-Spot Collision Warning The Kia Drive Wise suite of driver assistance technology includes a number of features to keep you one step ahead of danger on the road, including the blind-spot collision warning system. When another vehicle is detected in either blind spot of your vehicle, an alert pops up on the corresponding side mirror and an audible warning is issued. 5. Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist Mitigate the danger that comes from backing out of a spot into traffic with Kia's rear cross-traffic collision-avoidance assist system. When the vehicle is in reverse, you'll get an alert if traffic is approaching from either side of your vehicle, letting you back out of a parking spot or driveway with peace of mind. 6. Lane Following Assist Kia vehicles are intelligent enough to give you a guiding hand to help keep you exactly where you need to be on the road. The lane following assist system detects lane markers on the road so that it can sense when you begin to unintentionally drift out of your lane, triggering an alert that lets you know to get back to your correct position. 7. Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist Modern Kia vehicles are built to be intelligent enough to help you reduce the severity of an accident or avoid one altogether. The forward collision-avoidance assist system emits an audible warning and shows a visual alert if it detects an impact is imminent. Emergency brakes also kick in to reduce your speed, lowering the impact anyone on board feels in the event of an accident. Leading safety features like these, along with plenty of other great benefits, are waiting for you when you get your next vehicle at our dealership. Find your new ride at Crain Kia of Bentonville today! Image via Kia.

Cars need to have air flowing into the engine compartment in order for the fuel to combust, and your car air filter helps make sure that the air that's going into the engine is relatively clean. Changing these filters is part of routine car maintenance, and your local Kia dealer can provide the service you need. Does Your Location Impact How Often You Need to Change Your Car Air Filter? While the general rule of thumb is to change the air filter once a year or every 10,000 to 15,000 miles, where you're driving can make a large difference. In these cases, it's better to change the filter every 6,000 miles or so. Dusty environments, such as rural areas or desert highways, can lead to a quicker clogging of the air filter. Areas with heavy pollutants, such as large cities, can also lead to increased build-up in the filter. Does Your Kia Dealer Say Your Air Filter Looks Dirty? Visual inspections are one of the best ways to determine when your air filter needs changing. They are usually a white or off-white color when they're new, so a build-up of dirt and grime is easy to see with the naked eye. If you have your car serviced by a professional, this should be part of the standard checks that they do. The mechanic will let you know when it's time to change the filter out. If you're someone who does your own oil changes, make sure to pop out the filter and take a look every time you do one. Is Your Engine Misfiring? Dirty air filters can lead to improper burning of fuel, which can lead to a build-up of soot. It's common for this soot to collect on the surface of the spark plug, which in turn makes it difficult for that spark plug to produce the requisite spark. This can mean you need to turn the key several times to get your engine to turn over or you struggle to accelerate. Misfires can also make a sudden sound within the engine, and while this can be concerning, an air filter change is a relatively simple procedure that can alleviate these problems. Is There Black Soot or Smoke Coming From the Tailpipe? As cars have become more and more fuel-efficient, it is less common to see residue spewing from a car's tailpipe. But if you do notice this, a dirty filter may be the culprit behind the sudden sooty output. As mentioned previously, a dirty air filter can mean that all of the fuel isn't being properly consumed, and it leaves a residue that gets stuck in various places. If there is fuel where it isn't supposed to be, it may ignite and cause smoke to come from the tailpipe. Additional Hazards In some cases, this excess of fuel can cause a loud popping sound when you start the car. It may also produce a burst of flame from the tailpipe when the engine is turned over. Neither of these are normal for a properly functioning vehicle, and they need to be addressed by a certified mechanic immediately. If your answers to these questions make you think that you may need a new air filter, come by Crain Kia of Bentonville to get your car serviced. We specialize in taking care of all of your Kia's needs! Image via Kia.

You should never neglect your car. Regular maintenance keeps your engine running smoothly and prevents costly repairs in the future. If you're not sure when it's time to bring your vehicle to a Kia service center in Bentonville, AR, here are five signs that signify you're due for a much-needed visit: 1. Bad Gas Mileage When you notice your car consuming a lot more gasoline than usual, it's usually a sign that something is wrong. Gas mileage can be reduced for various reasons, including a clogged air filter, a failing thermostat, or some other factor. You can perform a few easy tasks, such as checking your tire pressure and driving more efficiently, but the best approach to fix the problem is to visit a service center near you. 2. Odd Sounds Clunking, ticking, and clicking are all noises that might indicate an issue with your automobile. Take your automobile in for maintenance as soon as you hear any of these sounds. Most of them are minor issues that could develop into big ones if left unattended. Ticking, for example, is a sign that it's time for an oil change, which is a straightforward procedure until you leave it ignored for too long and the engine begins to deteriorate. 3. Brake Squeals It's not a cause for concern if your brakes squeak from time to time. If the brakes are wet or dirty, they may squeak as a result of this. However, if your brakes make any other noises beyond a squeak here and there, have them assessed immediately. Squealing is a warning sign that your car's brake pads are getting worn down. If you hear metal grinding noises, your brake pads have worn out to the point that they are essentially useless. 4. Ignition Trouble Ignition problems are the most common reason for an automobile to not start. If your car won't start at all, or if it takes an eternity for the engine to crank over, you'll need to get it looked at. Ignition problems are typically easy for a mechanic to diagnose and repair, but they will only worsen with time. Furthermore, you may have a spark plug issue, which, if neglected, can do severe damage to your engine. 5. Odd Smells A distinct fragrance can also be an indicator of vehicle trouble. A maple syrup odor might signal a cooling system problem, whereas a dirty laundry aroma might indicate mold growth in the A/C or heater vents. A burning odor often implies that the clutch is worn out and needs to be replaced. If you smell a whiff of any of these odors, it's highly recommended that you bring your vehicle to your local service center for a check-up. If you are experiencing any of these signs, you should visit Crain Kia of Bentonville. We offer a full range of services that will meet your needs and surpass your expectations. You can trust us for quality workmanship on all major repairs or maintenance jobs, including tires, brakes, oil changes, tune-ups, and so much more! Image via Kia.

Do you know when your Kia needs fresh headlights? Headlights need to be replaced when they are no longer providing enough light. This can happen suddenly or gradually, and there are a few different ways to tell if it's time for your Kia mechanic to install new headlights on your vehicle. Read on to find out what they are: 1) Your Headlights Are Dim Light output decreases as a headlight ages. It's also conceivable that your vehicle's headlight covers accumulate a layer of dirt or grime, impairing their overall performance. If your headlights have dimmed, clean the area around them and see whether the light quality improves. If your headlights still look dimmer than they used to, or if the beam has a yellowish hue, it may be time to have them replaced - especially considering that inadequate headlights can cause accidents! 2) Your Lenses Are Broken When lenses crack or get cloudy, the light will scatter rather than shine straight forward. This makes it difficult for other drivers to see where your vehicle is headed. The problem can be fixed by installing new bulbs and new headlight assemblies onto your Kia. 3) Your Headlights Are Blurry Like dirty eyeglasses distort things in the distance, cloudy or dirty lenses in a headlight can also distort images. If your headlights are blurred, you'll need to have them replaced with new ones from your Kia dealer. Blurry headlights can sometimes be fixed with a good cleaning, but if they cannot be cleared up that way, it's time for new ones. 4) One Headlight Is Out If one of your headlights is not working, likely, the problem won't be fixed by having the bulb replaced. Sometimes they burn out simultaneously because they are connected, and you'll want to replace both headlights. 5) Your Headlights Are Flickering An electrical issue often causes a flickering headlight. Flickering can also indicate that the bulb's filament is broken or severely worn down, similar to how a lightbulb in your apartment might flicker as it approaches the end of its lifespan. This can be a sign that the bulb is very close to burning out entirely. It may also be caused by a loose connection or corroded wire that gets wet because it's exposed due to the damage to the housing around it. You'll want to have this problem fixed as quickly as possible before you're stranded on the road at night! 6) Your Headlights No Longer Turn On If you turn your headlights on and nothing happens, then it is likely that the problem lies with your headlight switch. Sometimes they just need to be replaced, but if they are malfunctioning in any way, they will need to be repaired by a professional. Whether you need fresh headlights or significant repair work done on your Kia, we've got the service team to get it taken care of for you. We want all our customers to be satisfied with their experience at Crain Kia of Bentonville and know that they can count on us when they need help with their vehicle. Give Crain Kia of Bentonville a call today so one of our staff members can set up an appointment time that works best for your schedule. Image via Kia.

When you own a Kia, you can be assured you'll have a reliable vehicle for you and your family. However, to have a long, happy relationship with your car you must commit to doing some regular Kia maintenance. Watch Your Fluids Many different fluids keep your car running smoothly. Engine oil, power steering fluid, brake fluid, transmission fluid, antifreeze/coolant, and windshield wiper fluid should all be kept at the levels recommended by your manufacturer. When you allow these fluids to drop too low or get dark and thick it causes your car to start running roughly which can create costly damage to your engine and other important components in your vehicle. Inspect Your Hoses and Belts Over time, your car's hoses and belts can crack, fray, become loose, or start to get brittle. It's important to inspect all of these parts regularly for signs of damage. If they happen to get loose or worn it can lead to a lack in your vehicle's performance, overheating, or damage to the engine. Examine Your Exhaust System Typically, you will hear a rattling noise if your exhaust system is loose, but it's still important to examine it regularly to ensure there are no leaks, damage, or broken supports. Having a leak in the exhaust can not only cause damage to your car, but it can be dangerous for your health, as well. Rotate and Inspect Your Tires Did you know that your tires often wear down unevenly? This is due to your style of driving, the turns you make, where you park your car, and weather conditions. Keeping your tires inflated to the levels recommended by your manufacturer, and getting them rotated regularly will help them last longer. And don't forget to inspect your tires for cracks and bald spots. Service Your Heating and Ventilation If you don't often use your heating, air conditioning, and ventilation systems, or if you notice noises or lack of power, you'll likely need to service them to get them in working condition again. Not only do they make your driving experience more comfortable, but they are also important for defrosting and other safety functions. Test Your Lights and Wipers You may not realize that your windshield wipers or one or more of your interior or exterior lights aren't working until you need to use them. This can create huge safety hazards! Take a few minutes to test them all regularly to ensure they are all working properly and that your wipers are not cracked or worn. Check Your Battery Have your car's battery regularly checked to ensure it's still working as it should. It should be secured properly in its compartment and the connections should be tight with no signs of corrosion or wear. We're here to help you keep your Kia running like new for many years to come! You can trust the service center at Crain Kia to provide quality maintenance along with amazing customer service. Contact Crain Kia of Bentonville today with any maintenance questions or to schedule an appointment. Image via Kia.

Getting a new or used car at your local Kia dealership in Bentonville, AR is exciting, but you'll have to consider all the options when it comes to paying for your vehicle. In most cases, you can get the best car financing rate at your dealership, so you should check their website and speak to the finance team about your needs. Let's explore how you can get financing at your dealership and why this is such a simple process. 4 Things to Know About Getting Car Financing at Your Kia Dealership in Bentonville AR 1. It's Surprisingly Simple In the past, getting a car loan was a challenge, but with the advent of the internet, you can find everything you need online. What's more, your local dealership can not only provide you with a car but also with great financing options, so you don't have to seek them out elsewhere. You can use all of the tools, such as the finance calculators, on the website and then apply online, in person, or over the phone. 2. You Can Find Help Online and In Person Depending on your personal situation and how familiar you are with the financing process, you might have some questions. Fortunately, assistance is available 24/7 on the dealership's website. Aside from the detailed articles, you can also use various tools and contact forms in order to get in touch with the finance team. If you'd rather speak to someone in person, you can give the dealership a call or stop by in person. With generous opening hours from 8.30am to 8pm six days a week, you can get in touch with us even if you work normal office hours. with the finance team. If you'd rather speak to someone in person, you can give the dealership a call or stop by in person. With generous opening hours from 8.30am to 8pm six days a week, you can get in touch with us even if you work normal office hours. 3. You Need to Know About Your Financial Situation To take advantage of the online options and get the best result possible, you'll need to know the details of your personal situation. Before getting started, you should figure out how much you're able to pay each month--not forgetting taxes, gas, and insurance into your total "car" budget--and whether you have a deposit that can lower your loan amount. You'll also need some information about your credit score, as this will determine what kind of rate you can get. 4. Your Finances Affect Your Rate Most people are aware that their credit score is important when it comes to getting financing, but there are other aspects of your situation that can make a difference. For example, the dealership will take your employment status into consideration. If you're a full-time employee, you might have an easier time obtaining a loan than if you're unemployed or self-employed. Similarly, a sizeable down payment can reassure your lender that you're a serious candidate and that you're good at handling your finances. When you purchase your car from a reputable dealership, you can get financing directly from them. Not only is this process extremely easy, but help is available both online and in person. Although the customer service representatives will be happy to assist you, it's helpful if you have accurate and up-to-date information about your financial situation, as this will affect your rate. Contact us at Crain Kia of Bentonville to get started and speak to our team.

Having the oil changed in your car regularly is one of the simplest and most important ways to extend your car's longevity in Bentonville, AR. However, not all oil changes are created equal. As a Kia owner, it is beneficial to have your Kia oil change performed at a Kia dealership. You will receive the best quality service from mechanics who are trained Kia specialists. What Happens During a Dealership Kia Oil Change? During a dealership oil change, a Kia-certified mechanic will change the oil and replace your old oil filter with a new genuine Kia filter. Different cars require different types of oil and filters. One of the biggest advantages to getting your oil changed by a certified Kia mechanic is that it helps ensure that costly mistakes are avoided. When you get your oil changed at a general mechanic, you run the risk of them mistakingly using the wrong filter or oil if they aren't familiar with your car. These types of mistakes can cause serious damage to your vehicle and potentially void your Kia warranty. If your warranty is voided, you will be forced to pay out of pocket for the repairs. Schedule an Oil Change at a Time That's Convenient In addition to being better for your car, getting your oil changed at a dealership is also better for you. When you get your oil change done at a shop, you're at the mercy of the mechanic to decide when your oil change is done. Depending on the shop's workload that day, your car may be a low priority. You are often left without a vehicle while the mechanic performs other, higher-paying jobs first. When you get your oil changed at a dealership, you can schedule your oil change ahead of time when it is most convenient for you. You can either call or schedule your appointment online, and you won't have to be left waiting until the mechanic gets to your car. When you schedule ahead of time, dealership mechanics get to work as soon as you arrive, and you're back on the road again quickly. Certified Technicians in Bentonville, AR Help You Avoid Bigger Problems Oil leaks are a common problem that occurs as cars get older. If your car leaks oil, it can cause low oil pressure, which can have a devastating effect on your engine, resulting in huge repair bills. During a dealership oil change, certified technicians can quickly detect problems with aging gaskets and seals that are allowing oil to leak out. It's much easier and less expensive to replace a seal or gasket than repair an engine, and the dealership likely has the exact part you need right there. When you go to a dealership, you are guaranteed to receive service from Kia experts and greater convenience than a general shop. You will also have peace of mind knowing the correct oil, filters, and other parts are always being used. If you are a Kia owner around Bentonville, contact Crain Kia of Bentonville today to schedule your next oil change. We look forward to serving you.

Buying a car is a big deal. If you're looking for your next car, here are a few reasons why getting it from an official Kia dealership is the best way to go. 5 Benefits of Buying and Servicing Your Car at an Official Kia Dealership 1. You Get More Options One of the greatest things about purchasing your car from an official dealership is that you have options. Yes, you can buy a used car for cheaper from a private seller. But you don't have the luxury of being choosy. When you buy from a dealership, you get many more options. You'll also get the chance to hop in the cars and test them out for yourself. This makes it easier to decide which make and model work for you. 2. You Get Personalized Service When you walk into a dealership, the customer service reps will meet you right away to help you out. You can't expect this with a private seller! Buying a car from a dealership means you're getting the very best advice and information. A dealership will be able to tell you about all the latest features each car has. The staff at a dealership will be knowledgeable about what every car has to offer. What's even better is that they might even change your mind for you! Even if you walk in knowing exactly what you want, the staff at a dealership might know of other cars that fit your needs even better. 3. Buying from a Dealership is More Convenient If you're looking for a particular make and model of a car, visiting a dealership is best. You can hunt around for private sellers selling their used cars. But if you have your heart set on a specific vehicle, don't expect to find it easily. If you're in Bentonville, Crain Kia of Bentonville will have everything is in one location. No more scouring online listings only to find out the seller is three hours away! 4. Getting Your Car Serviced at a Dealership Is Fast If your car just needs a few minor fixes, bringing it to the dealership means getting fast service. Bringing your car to an independent mechanic could mean waiting a few days. At a dealership, most repairs, assuming they're not too large, can be completed in an hour or two. Taking your car to the dealership to get serviced also means you're bringing it to people who specialize in that brand of car. When you bring your Kia to Crain Kia of Bentonville, you can bet the mechanics there know exactly how your Kia works, and how to keep it running safely. 5. It's Safer to Buy and Get Your Car Serviced at a Dealership When it comes to legalities, you're putting a lot of trust into someone if you're buying a car from a private seller. If it turns out the car was stolen, you could find yourself with an unexpected mess on your hands. Buying from a dealership, on the other hand, avoids that kind of trouble. Getting it serviced at the dealership also means you can trust the people working on it. So, when it comes to buying and servicing a car, dealerships are best. If you're looking for your new Kia, visit us at Crain Kia of Bentonville and get the smoothest and most reliable service you can get.

Changing your oil is a regular part of keeping your Kia in good shape. While your car is in the shop, it's a good idea to get some other regular maintenance done. There are a few other things your technicians will look at while you get your Kia oil change. 5 Services to Get Along With Your Kia Oil Change 1. Fluid Top-Off Oil is just one of the many fluids that your car needs to run smoothly. It's a good idea to get the other liquids checked and topped up. Here's a list of the fluids that may need topping off: Brake Fluid If there's too little of it left, your brakes might not respond the way they should. So keeping brake fluid at optimal levels in your car may save your life. Power Steering Fluid Having the right amount of this in your car makes it easier to drive. If it starts to run low, the car becomes harder to steer. Anti-Freeze/Coolant Fluid This fluid is important to stop your radiator from freezing when it's cold and also to prevent rusting. Windshield Washer Fluid This is one thing you hardly ever think about. But if a bird does its business on your windscreen in the middle of the road, it can make a huge difference to have enough of this fluid. 2. Tire Pressure It's important to get keep your tires inflated properly. Not only will this help prevent tire damage and flats but it will also save you on fuel. All the more reason why you should get your pressure checked with your oil change. 3. Tire Rotation To make your tires last longer and keep your car driving smoothly, your tires need regular rotation. Rotating the tires makes them wear out evenly; that way you don't have to change them as often. Getting a tire rotation with every oil change is a good investment. After all, it will save you more in the long run. 4. Air Filter Change Your vehicle's air filter keeps out the dirt particles that can damage your engine. If it gets blocked, it won't do a good job. For this reason, it helps to get your air filter changed every so often. It's a good idea to get this done together with your oil change. It saves you from having to schedule an extra appointment. Plus, it's safer than risking damage to the engine. 5. Cabin Air Filter Change Your car is fitted with a cabin air filter to purify the air before it gets into your car. Frequently replacing these filters keeps the air clean and helps your air conditioning to run without hitches. It's a great idea to also get these replaced when you change your oil. Getting regular maintenance done on your Kia's fluids, tires, and air filters together with your oil change will save you time and future expenses. To get these and other services done by certified technicians, make an appointment with Crain Kia of Bentonville today.