We’ve all been there: you walk out to your car only to discover a new scratch or dent that definitely wasn’t there before. It’s frustrating, it’s annoying, and it’s a bummer. Dealing with car scratches and car dents can be a headache, but don’t worry: there are things you can do to fix the damage and get your car looking like new again, up to and including taking it to your trusted local Kia dealer.

Assess the Damage

First things first: how deep is the scratch? How big is the dent? Is the paint damaged? These are all important questions to ask yourself before you start any repairs. For minor scratches and dents, you might be able to fix them yourself using a scratch removal kit or a plunger. But for deeper damage or damage to the paint, you might need to take your car to a professional. 

Dealing With Car Scratches

Minor scratches can be frustrating to deal with, but luckily, they can often be fixed with relative ease. If the scratch is shallow and only affects the clear coat, you may be able to buff it out with a rubbing compound and a microfiber cloth. If the scratch is a bit deeper, it may need to be touched up with paint. This may be found at your local dealer.

Make sure to choose the correct color for your car and follow the instructions on the paint can carefully. Typically, you’ll need to clean the affected area, sand it down, and then apply several coats of paint, allowing each coat to dry in between. Once the paint is dry, you can use a rubbing compound to blend it in with the surrounding paint and make it look seamless. With a little bit of time and effort, your car will look as good as new!

Dealing With Car Dents

While it’s never fun to see a dent on your vehicle, there are some things you can do. If the dent is minor, you might be able to fix it yourself using a vacuum cleaner. Simply place the vacuum over the dent and gently pull or push until the dent pops out. This method works best on larger, shallow dents. Another DIY method is using boiling water and a plunger. Pour the hot water over the dent, place the plunger over the dent, and push and pull until it pops out.

When To Contact Your Kia Dealer

If the scratch or dent is more severe and the DIY methods didn’t work, it’s time to take your car to a professional. Your Kia dealer has experienced technicians who can use specialized tools to carefully repair scratches and remove dents without damaging the paint job. They will assess the extent of the damage and provide an estimate for the cost of the repair. Depending on your insurance, you may be able to have the repair at least partially covered.

It’s important to address scratches and dents sooner rather than later, as they can lead to rust or other damage if left untreated, so, don’t hesitate to take your car to a professional. If you’ve got a scratch or dent that needs some professional attention, contact Crain Kia of Bentonville right away to schedule your repair.

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Families around the country are choosing SUVs because they’re comfortable, spacious, and reliable. One of the best options is the 2023 Kia Sorento. This vehicle comes in eight trim levels, and it’s easy to configure. Drivers love the excellent safety and infotainment features, the roomy interior, and the fact that the Sorento is more eco-friendly than many other cars in this class.

The Sorento is an excellent family SUV because it has three rows of seats and plenty of cargo space. Many people choose this car because it’s attractive as well as practical. They love the ease of driving, great fuel economy, and upscale feel of the interior. The Sorento is a good choice for those who like to go on vacation in their cars because it comes with several optional excursion accessories.

You can add a rooftop cargo box and bike rack to your vehicle, so you don’t have to leave anything behind when you go on your next adventure. Another outstanding feature is the Smart Power Tailgate, which opens automatically when it detects the Smart Key. This feature makes it easy for drivers to transport valuables or tall items.

Several Unique Options 

Because there are eight available trim levels, almost everyone can find a Sorento that suits their needs. The basic model, the LX, features a 191-horsepower engine, an eight-inch touchscreen, seating for up to seven people, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. The top X-Line SX Prestige comes with 20-inch alloy wheels, X-line body styling, and high-utility roof rails.

You can add extra features and configure each trim level to suit your family. If you’re environmentally conscious, you can choose the hybrid or plug-in hybrid version. There is also a turbo version that provides drivers with up to 281 horsepower.

New and Unique Features 

The Sorento is known for its great features, and the 2023 version is no exception. This year, certain safety features that used to be optional add-ons are standard for all models. They include the rear cross-traffic alert, blind-spot monitoring, and safe exit assist. No matter which trim level you choose, you can be sure that you and your family members are safe during your drive.

Another reason why so many people love the Sorento is the excellent infotainment options. Although the standard features are great, many drivers upgrade to the available Bose Premium Audio System, which comes with 12 speakers and Bluetooth capabilities.

If you’re on the lookout for a new family SUV, the Sorento should be at the top of your list. It’s a spacious vehicle that seats up to seven people, and it comes with many advanced features. Give us a call at Crain Kia of Bentonville to book a test drive. We can’t wait to welcome you to the dealership and show you all the amazing features of our Kia vehicles. 

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Swimming is one of the best ways to beat the heat and stay active during the summer months. Whether you’re in the mood for a refreshing dip in a watering hole or to break a new lap record, there are countless destinations around Bentonville, AR that’ll have you loading up the Kia Soul with towels and heading out for a dip. So grab your swimsuit, goggles, and sunscreen, and get ready to dive in!

1. Bentonville Community Center

The Bentonville Community Center is an expansive 80,000-square-foot complex located within Citizens Park. With a multitude of amenities and programs, this place is a surefire hit for the whole family. The impressive natatorium includes a leisure pool complete with multiple water slides, a competition-quality pool, a pool party room, and locker rooms. Fitness enthusiasts can take advantage of the fitness center, which boasts over eighty pieces of equipment, as well as an indoor running track.

Need a break from the pool? The center also features a variety of community banquet rooms with a catering kitchen, a Kids Center, and even a mini-branch of the Bentonville Public Library. The 2022 Kia Carnival’s incredible 40.2 cubic feet of cargo space means you can pack all the food, drinks, books, and swim gear you want, so you can aptly prepare for a seriously jam-packed day.

2. Melvin Ford Aquatic Center

Another fantastic family option is the Melvin Ford Aquatic Center. Its 50-meter competition pool is a major highlight, ranging from 3-8 feet in depth and perfect for both recreational and lap aquatics. For younger children, a one-foot-deep wading pool, complete with an adorable raindrop fountain, is perfect. And with the Kia EV6’s ample backseat space for child seats, you’ll be able to bring all the kids along – they can even bring a friend!

3. Tanyard Creek Falls

If you’re seeking a more earthy adventure, Tanyard Creek Falls is a must-see for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Located on Tanyard Creek Nature Trail, this picturesque waterfall is a feast for the eyes and a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. A spacious parking lot on arrival means there’s ample room for whatever vehicle you’re driving, even if that’s the muscular 2021 Kia Telluride.

From there, you can begin your journey to the falls. The trail is a gentle, two-mile loop that can be tackled by hikers of all skill levels. You’ll enjoy winding through lush forests alongside a babbling creek. By the time you reach the gorgeous waterfall, you’ll be ready to jump in and enjoy the refreshing, clean water! It’s a unique experience that’s bound to get you feeling more at one with nature.

From crystal-clear waterfalls to state-of-the-art aquatic centers, the options for a summer splash are endless here in Bentonville. When you’re all dried off, come and say hi to us here at Crain Kia of Bentonville.

Image via Pixabay.

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Your car belt is integral in providing power to essential vehicle components. The following signs from your Kia dealer will help you determine when there’s a problem with the belt so you can replace it before your Sorento, Seltos, or Sportage breaks down.

1. The Belt Is Worn and Shiny

Pop your head under the hood and inspect the belt. If the belt looks shiny and one side of the working edge is more worn than the other, it could be an alignment issue caused by the pulley. If the working edge of the belt looks shiny and worn down, ask your Kia technician to replace the belt as soon as possible.

2. The Belt Is Frayed or Cracked

If you look at the belt and it’s frayed or cracked halfway through the rubber, it’s a sign the belt needs replacing. A cracked or frayed belt can snap without warning, causing damage to other parts under the hood. Your car won’t run for long with a broken belt, and if you continue driving, it will cause damage to your engine and increase the repair costs.

3. There Are Missing Rubber Chunks in the Ribs

Missing rubber and notches in the ribs are sure signs that it’s time to replace the belt. The belt might still work fine, but it could snap and cause severe damage under the hood and an unexpected breakdown. Ask your Kia technician to replace the belt immediately when you notice notches or missing chunks in the rubber.

4. Your Hear Noises From Under the Hood

Ticking noises from under the hood could be from a frayed or cracked belt, and squealing sounds are when there’s moisture or oil on the belt. A broken belt will flap when it hits and damages other parts under the hood. When you hear noises from under the hood, get your car to your dealer ASAP.

5. The Belt Is Old

Your car’s belt is made of strong and durable rubber and can last 60,000 to 100,000 miles or even longer. Over time, with use, and exposure to extreme heat and moisture, the belt will wear, fray, and eventually crack. Check the belt regularly and when you take your car for an oil change, ask your Kia technician to inspect the belt thoroughly.

With regular belt inspections, the technician will detect problems early before the belt wears too much and snaps, which will cause your car to break down and get you stranded next to the road.  

If your belt needs replacing, call Crain Kia of Bentonville today to schedule an appointment. The certified Kia technicians will perform an expert belt replacement and ensure your vehicle runs perfectly.

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All your Kia’s systems require electricity, which makes electrical problems a cause for concern. As your Kia dealer, we know that even a small issue can rapidly lead to problems for your car. We’d like to tell you more about some of the problems that can occur and that we can fix for you.

Random Glitches

Random electrical issues can range from a nuisance like a window that jams to a serious problem like misfiring. Sometimes an electrical problem can appear and then disappear and never return. If your Kia has random problems that have appeared and seem to be multiplying, our technicians will need to investigate the problem for you.

One of the most common causes of random glitches is a worn alternator. The alternator is responsible for generating your car’s electrical supply. A worn or damaged alternator will supply less electricity than it should, and this will cause a range of complications. Your computer will allocate the available power according to the immediate need, and this can cause systems to fail and then restart. Our technicians will identify the problem and repair it.

Damaged Spark Plugs

Your spark plugs are responsible for generating the spark that ignites the fuel-air mix in the cylinders. When the mixture is ignited, it creates combustion, and this allows your car to move. Damaged spark plugs might not fire, or they may fire out of synch. In either case, your car will experience a misfire. If the problem affects more than one spark plug, your car could stall.

Spark plugs gradually wear out, and we routinely replace them as part of your scheduled service. The plugs can also be damaged by other problems in your engine, for example, a high fuel-to-air mixture. A fuel-rich engine will coat the spark plugs with carbon and damage them. We can easily check your plugs and replace them if necessary.

Flickering Headlights

Flickering lights are always a sign of an electrical problem. The fault could be due to worn bulbs, or it could be caused by damage to the headlight sockets or a problem with the alternator or battery. If the headlights only flicker when your engine is switched off, the most likely cause is a worn-out battery that can’t supply enough power.

If your headlight bulbs were replaced less than a year ago and they’re flickering, the problem is most likely due to a worn alternator. Headlight bulbs are very sensitive to electricity fluctuations, and this will cause the to flicker. Our technicians will test your light bulbs and the electrical system to find and fix this problem.

Electrical issues always seem to manifest at the worst time. Call us today at Crain Kia of Bentonville.

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If you’re looking for a mid-size SUV, make sure you take a look at the Kia Telluride. Its rugged styling and fun performance make it perfect for any adventure. There is also a wide selection of trim levels available. Wondering which one is right for you? Here’s a look at what the Telluride’s 10 available trims have in store.

The LX

This trim starts off the Telluride’s lineup. When you opt for this model, you’ll get the standard 3.8-liter V-6 engine with a 5,000-pound towing capacity. Additional features include Blind Spot Detection and Smart Cruise Control with Stop & Go.

The S

Opting for the S trim will provide you with features like roof rails for additional storage and 20-inch alloy wheels. You’ll also get heated front seats and an available sunroof package. There’s seating for 7 people with 2nd-row captain’s chairs.

The EX

If you decide to go with the EX trim, you’ll get elements like heated and ventilated seating and room for 8 people to sit comfortably.

The EX trim also offers power-folding side view mirrors and sound-absorbing window glass on the front doors.

The EX X-Line

On this trim level, Active On-Demand All-Wheel Drive is standard. You’ll get 20-inch alloy wheels that are exclusive to X-Line styling.

The X-Line embossed front seats give the cabin even more style. There is also increased ground clearance and high-utility roof rails that make this trim perfect for off-roading adventures.

The SX

The SX will provide you with a dual sunroof as well as 12.3-inch dual panoramic displays. You’ll also get a blind-spot view monitor and a surround-view monitor.

Enjoy your favorite music on the Harman Kardon Premium Audio System.

The SX X-Line

Like the EX X-Line, the SX X-Line offers higher ground clearance and high utility roof rails. You’ll also get to enjoy a 10-way power driver’s seat with memory and an enhanced automatic emergency braking system.

The SX X-Pro

This trim offers driver X-Pro 18-inch alloy wheels with all-terrain tires. There is also the Active On-Demand All-Wheel Drive feature as well as great approach and departure angles. This vehicle can tow up to 5,500 pounds and it has a self-leveling rear suspension.

The SX Prestige

When you opt for this trim, you’ll get some high-end features like Nappa leather seat trim and heated and ventilated front-row and second-row seats. There are rain-sensing automatic windshield wipers and a heated steering wheel.

The SX Prestige X-Line

Along with the SX Prestige features, you’ll also get higher ground clearance, X-Line embossed front seats, and the X-Line exclusive 20-inch alloy wheels.

The SX Prestige X-Pro

You can tow up to 5,500 pounds with this trim. It also offers features like self-leveling rear suspension and a 110-volt power inverter in the rear cargo area.

No matter which of the Telluride’s trim levels you go with, expect a high-performance, reliable vehicle. Are you ready to see which trim level is perfect for you? Come visit us today at Crain Kia of Bentonville.

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Bentonville, AR is a great place for families to explore together. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventure, educational experiences, or simply quality family time, there are plenty of great activities in and around the city that the whole family can enjoy. From short day trips to weekend getaways, here are three family activities within driving distance of Bentonville that are sure to provide lasting memories.

Park Springs Park

Park Springs Park is a great destination for families looking for a little outdoor adventure. Located at 300 NW 10th St, the park is nestled within the Ozark Mountains and offers plenty of activities for all ages. With beautiful views of the surrounding landscape, your family can spend the day exploring the area and taking in the natural beauty of the park.

The park also features a wide selection of camping sites, including RV sites, primitive camping areas, and group campsites. With a variety of amenities, you can make Park Springs Park your home away from home while you enjoy all that the area has to offer. If your family is looking for a little more excitement, Park Springs Park offers a variety of activities, including rock climbing, fishing, mountain biking, and more.
 

Slaughter Pen Trail

If your family is looking for an outdoor adventure that is a bit closer to Bentonville, the Slaughter Pen Trail is a great option. Located just a few miles from downtown Bentonville at 203 NE 3rd St, the trail is a great way to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city and explore the surrounding area. The trail itself is about 8 miles long and is perfect for a full day of exploration.

With a variety of terrain, the trail features everything from rocky hills and winding streams to open meadows and lush forests. Along the way, you’ll also find plenty of opportunities for bird watching and other wildlife viewings. The trail is also a great option for cyclists. With plenty of paved sections, the trail is perfect for both beginners and experienced riders alike.
 

North Skills Park

If your family is looking for more educational activity, North Skills Park is a great destination. Located at Armadillo’s Last Stand, the park is designed to teach visitors about the environment and the importance of conservation. The park offers a variety of interactive exhibits and activities, including a nature center, an animal habitat, and a scavenger hunt.

North Skills Park is also home to a variety of events throughout the year. From birding festivals to star-gazing parties, there are plenty of opportunities to get out and explore the park and all it has to offer.
 
No matter what type of activity your family is looking for, Bentonville has plenty of options. A Kia Seltos is just the car you need to take your family and friends on fun day trips to discover exciting parks close to Bentonville. With enough space for all the gear and a bunch of high-tech features, hitting the road is part of the fun. After you’ve had fun, visit Crain Kia of Bentonville and check out our latest inventory.

Image via Pixabay.

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The 2023 Kia Carnival is a van with the personality and style of a mid-size SUV. Its rugged exterior looks ready for every adventure, while its adaptability and versatility ensure that it has the hauling and cargo capabilities you love in a van. The sliding doors on the Carnival ensure you have easy access to the second and third rows. Read on to learn more about the incredible features of this van.

1. Best-In-Class Power

The ’23 Carnival boasts best-in-class horsepower with its incredible V6 powertrain. This engine delivers an incredible 290 horsepower and has an incredible throttle response. This van also features a massive maximum towing capacity of up to 3,500 lbs. This means that not only can you haul your family and friends in the comfortable interior of the Carnival, but you also have plenty of towing capabilities to bring extra gear along as well.

2. Efficiency

The ’23 Carnival from Kia is a reasonably priced van that is exceptionally fuel efficient. This van gets an EPA-estimated rating of 19 mpg while in the city and 26 mpg while cruising down the highway. Together you are looking at 22 miles per gallon combined. This means you can skip the gas station more often, reducing travel time.

3. 360 Degree Camera Angles

The ’23 Carnival features a four-camera 360-degree surround-view camera allowing you to operate the vehicle confidently. The surround-view monitor delivers a birds-eye view of your vehicle and the surrounding area directly to your infotainment screen. This view can be used while parking and maneuvering the vehicle at slow speeds, ensuring you can easily park, navigate tight situations, and avoid children and toys while reversing.

4. Connectivity

The massive 12.3-inch infotainment screen display in the ’23 Carnival is intuitive and easy to use. Use this system to integrate your compatible smartphone devices using Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. This van also boasts nine available USB ports ensuring that every passenger can keep their devices charged. Additionally, the Carnival has an available rear-seat entertainment system that can keep the kids content on long drives.

5. Highway Drive Assist

The available highway drive assist system in the ’23 Carnival is an incredible driver assistance technology. This system draws information from multiple sensors, cameras, navigation, and traffic data to assist you on your drive. The van can help with steering, acceleration, and even deceleration to help ensure that you keep up with the flow of traffic.

If you are looking for an excellent family vehicle, make sure that you check out the ’23 Carnival from Kia. Come visit us at Crain Kia of Bentonville to schedule a test drive and get a trade appraisal today.

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Once you take a ride in the 2023 Kia Forte, you’ll start to get an idea of why so many drivers choose this sedan for their daily driving needs. Want to learn more about what the Forte can do for you? Check out our preview below to learn what’s in store when you get behind the wheel of this exciting vehicle for yourself.

Undeniable Style

With a sleek, redesigned appearance, the Forte is a vehicle that’s a sight to behold. Details such as the stylish front grille or the 17 and 18-inch wheel options help to complete the comprehensive look this vehicle portrays. You can get your Forte in attractive color options like Gravity Gray or Sporty Blue to personalize the look and create something that suits you.

Turbocharged Performance

From the moment your foot touches the gas pedal in the Forte, you’ll know that you’re in for an unforgettable thrill ride. The 1.6-liter turbocharged engine churns out 201 horsepower so that you can zoom beyond the competition and onward to wherever you’re headed next. Add the available six-speed manual transmission to assume more direct, precise control over your drive.

Advanced Safety Features

The Forte will protect you to a level that few other vehicles can match using the Kia Drive Wise system. Automatic emergency braking comes standard to provide you with another layer of protection on your drive. This feature detects an impending collision using advanced sensors located throughout the vehicle, engaging the brakes to slow you down or even avert an accident in some cases.

Next-Generation Tech

You’ll get the driving experience of tomorrow when you choose the Forte and all the advanced tech features it brings to the table. Standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto features give you easy connectivity to enjoy music, hands-free calling, and more, while the wireless charging station ensures your device stays up and running wherever you go. The hands-free smart trunk release feature makes it easy to handle loading and unloading your cargo.

Convenient Remote Access

Take advantage of the Kia Connect system to enjoy a seamless connection to your vehicle no matter where you are. The Find My Car feature available through this easy-to-use app lets you track down your vehicle to take the indecision out of those times when you aren’t sure where you parked. When you arrive, the vehicle will be warmed up and ready for you thanks to the remote start and climate control feature.

Want to get a closer look at the Forte so you can learn why it’s such a popular vehicle? Come to Crain Kia of Bentonville and we’ll show you more of the great features the Forte has to offer!

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The new Kia Niro EV is an incredible electric vehicle perfect for long-distance cruising. Its fantastic range has revolutionized what electric cars can do, and its combination of size and power makes it a wonderfully practical vehicle. Before you get one for yourself at your local Kia dealer, here’s everything you need to know about the car.

A Deeper Look at the 2023 Kia Niro EV Available Now at Your Local Kia Dealer

Well Designed for Cold Climates

The new electric Kia Niro is a wonderfully performing vehicle, offering a driving quality that matches and exceeds traditionally fuelled vehicles. Thanks to the front-wheel drive traction, It has a great burst of acceleration for a crossover and handles brilliantly. However, it excels even more when driven in icy conditions, as this added traction ensures that you can maintain grip and control, allowing you to drive confidently.

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