How to Check Your Kia’s Tire Pressure
If you want your Kia Rio, Stinger, or Seltos to handle better, consume less gas, and be safer on the road, keeping your tires inflated to the proper PSI is vital. Properly inflated tires will wear evenly and last longer, saving you a heap of cash in the long run. Below your Kia dealer shows you how easy it is to check tire pressure.
Advice From Your Kia Dealer: How To Check Your Kia’s Tire Pressure
Use a Tire Pressure Gauge
Using an analog or digital tire pressure gauge is the easiest and fastest way to check the PSI of each tire. The PSI is the unit a pressure gauge uses to provide the readings.
Analog Gauges
There are two types of analog gauges that you can use to check tire pressure. The pen gauge displays the pressure on a stick marked with numbers. Other analog gauges use a bar to indicate the level. There are also dial gauges with a dial face with measurements that point to the pressure reading.
Digital Gauges
We recommend battery-powered digital tire pressure gauges that display a digital reading on a screen. Digital tire pressure gauges give the most accurate reading and are the easiest of the different gauges to use.
Find the Proper PSI
You will find your specific model’s proper PSI on a sticker inside your driver’s door and in your owner’s manual. The pressure levels may differ between the front and rear tires depending on the model you drive. Remember the recommended PSI for each tire, or write it down.
Check the Tire Pressure on Cold Tires
Check the PSI of each tire when the tires are cold. If you’ve driven your car, wait at least an hour before checking the tire pressure because the friction from driving heats up the tires and will affects the reading.
Measure the Pressure
Pick any tire and unscrew and remove the valve cap. Press the tire pressure gauge firmly on the valve stem until you hear a hissing sound to get an accurate pressure reading. Write the pressure reading down next to the recommended PSI and repeat the process on all the tires, including the spare.
Compare the Readings With the Recommended PSI
Compare the readings to the recommended PSI for each tire. If the pressure levels are below the recommended PSI, the tires must be inflated to the correct levels. If the reading is higher, you will have to deflate the tires.
Check your car’s tire pressure levels regularly and ensure that they are inflated to the proper pressure levels to reduce wear and increase your Kia’s fuel efficiency. For a thorough tire inspection and pressure check, stop at Crain Kia of Fort Smith today, and the qualified Kia technicians will ensure your tires are correctly inflated and in good condition.
The fall season is the perfect time to get out and enjoy the beautiful weather. If you’re looking for some fun fall activities to do in Fort Smith, AR, you’re in luck. We’ve put together a list of some great ideas for you! So grab your keys and get ready to have some fun.
3 Fun Fall Activities You Can Drive to From Fort Smith, AR
Janet Huckabee Arkansas River Valley Nature Center
The Janet Huckabee Arkansas River Valley Nature Center is a great fall destination. With over 170 acres of land, the center offers a variety of activities for all ages, such as hiking, picnicking, fishing, and bird-watching. The center has a stunning view of Wells Lake, a popular fishing spot, making it the perfect place to spend a relaxing day outside.
The nature center is also home to many different animals and birds. The native plants on the grounds attract birds from all over, making it a popular destination for bird watchers. Therefore, ensure you bring your binoculars. Additionally, the trails are perfect for hikers of all levels. With so much to offer, the Janet Huckabee Arkansas River Valley Nature Center is the ideal place to enjoy the fall season.
Creekmore Park
Creekmore Park is a lovely park located in Fort Smith, Arkansas. The park is vast and offers many activities for families to enjoy. In addition to the largest outdoor Olympic-sized swim and diving facility in the area, Creekmore Park also has an 18-hole miniature golf course, a tennis court, playground equipment, and a community center.
The park also hosts various seasonal events like the Creekmore Express Train and Creekmore Holiday Express. During the summer, Creekmore Park hosts a variety of activities, such as baking boot camps, movies in the park, and pop-up play days. You can also rent the park for special events like birthday parties and reunions.
Parrot Island Waterpark
Spend your Saturday playing with water at the Parrot Island Waterpark in Fort Smith. The waterpark boasts more than 400,000 gallons of aquatic fun, including a lazy river, a wave pool, four water slides, and a FlowRider.
Additional features include party pavilions, cabana rentals, and numerous snack shops. Moreover, you can use the free deck and lounge chairs if you want to unwind. You can also go shopping in the Tiki Hut gift shop and enjoy a lovely picnic on the expansive grass lawn. Therefore, don’t forget to pack a picnic basket and mat in your spacious Kia Telluride SX.
If you’re looking for a fun fall activity that doesn’t involve too much planning, consider driving to one of these places in Fort Smith. And when you do, be sure to contact us at Crain Kia of Fort Smith – we have an extensive collection of fantastic vehicles and would love to help get you behind the wheel of your perfect ride.
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What’s Included in Kia’s New Car Warranty in 2022?
A car warranty is an integral part of your new car buying decision. However, it can be daunting to sort out what a warranty covers. As a new Kia car owner, you can relax and enjoy the benefits of KIA’s market-leading warranty provided by your local KIA dealer. Below are four main parts of KIA’s impressive warranty package for you to review.
What Does Your Local KIA Dealer Include in Your New Car Warranty?
Part 1: Powertrain Warranty
When shopping for a new car pay attention to what this warranty covers. KIA’s limited powertrain warranty covers the essential parts that keep your car running. From the engine to the transmission and other related parts, your vehicle is covered for 10 years or 100,000 miles, whichever comes first.
These are the most expensive parts to repair in your new car and this long-term coverage is more substantial than what most other car manufacturers offer today.
Part 2: Bumper-to-Bumper Coverage
Another essential ingredient to a great vehicle warranty is what other car parts are covered and for how long. KIA excels in this area, also. This limited basic warranty protects almost all the parts in your car, except for normal wear and tear, for 5 years or 60,000 miles.
No more worries about unexpected repair bills cropping up to ruin your day. KIA has great confidence in its products and this all-around warranty coverage proves it.
Part 3: Anti-Perforation Warranty
Now that you know your mechanical parts are covered, what about the exterior of your car? You will be happy to know that KIA pays close attention to the exterior of your vehicle also.
Their limited anti-perforation warranty will replace any body panels that rust or corrode from the inside out for 5 years or 100,000 miles.
Part 4: Roadside Assistance Plan
With this 5-year or 60,000 miles emergency roadside service plan you won’t have to worry about getting stuck in the middle of nowhere. This can help you with flat tires, jump starts, gas delivery, towing to a local dealership, or even help you if you get locked out.
Plus, it includes an added trip interruption benefit which can include reimbursement for rental cars, meals, or lodging depending on how far away from home you are and how long needed repairs will take.
Now you can enjoy your new adventures with your family and friends knowing you are covered should you need help. Don’t waste any more time. Buy with confidence at Crain Kia of Fort Smith today.
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How Often Should Your Kia Get Brake Service?
No matter how long you’ve owned your car, it’s important to conduct regular maintenance on it to make sure that it’s in good shape to get you and your passengers to where you need to go safely. And one of the most important things to have checked is your brakes. While you should get brake service from your Kia dealer regularly, it can help to know the signs that show you need to bring your car in.
How Often Should Your Kia Get Brake Service at the Kia Dealer?
Set Intervals
It’s recommended to get your brakes checked every 20,000 to 60,000 miles, or after every six months. To make sure that they don’t forget to have their brakes looked at, most people have it done when they bring in their car to have the tires rotated. But there are a couple of factors you should consider when deciding how often to have your brakes serviced, as some people may need it done more frequently than others
If you tend to drive on hilly terrain with sharp turns, you’re probably going to use up your brakes much quicker than someone who drives on flat, straight roads most of the time. Additionally, urban driving will wear out brakes faster, since there’s a lot of starting and stopping involved. If either of these scenarios applies to you, think about having your brakes serviced closer to every 20,000 miles. You can do this at your Kia dealership!
Listen for Abnormal Noises
While it’s good to have a set schedule for getting your brakes examined and adjusted, that doesn’t mean you can just rely on your schedule alone. You also need to be attentive to any changes you hear or feel when you’re driving. You should be especially wary of grinding or squeaking noises that come from your brakes when you apply pressure. This could mean that the brake pads have been completely exhausted and need to be replaced immediately.
Squishy Brakes
Another reason you would need to get your brakes looked at by a Kia mechanic is if you feel like the brakes are squishy when you press down on them. This sensation could be accompanied by your car not slowing down as quickly as it would normally, which is a dangerous situation to be in. This problem may be caused by a leak in brake fluid, which could eventually lead to your brakes not working at all.
Unstable Steering Wheel
When you push your brakes and the steering wheel shakes or turns to one side, that means the rotors may be warped and need to be straightened, which can be done at your Kia dealership.
Come to Crain Kia of Fort Smith and our mechanics can help you with any problems you may have!
With the Arkansas River running along the northern city limits, Fort Smith, AR offers some excellent boating destinations for both residents and visitors alike. There are also plenty of lakes and state parks in the area that are within easy driving distance of the city and which provide perfect locations for a day out on the water. Here are three of our favorite spots for taking the boat out within easy driving distance of the city.
3 Great Spots for Boating You Can Drive to From Fort Smith, AR
1. Mulberry River, Ozark
The Mulberry River begins within the Ozarks and winds its way 70 miles until it converges with the Arkansas River. It is especially popular among the canoeing and kayaking fraternities, due in part to the challenge it presents in certain areas over the early spring. Described as one of the most accessible rivers in Arkansas, there are plenty of spots along the banks to pull on for a picnic lunch or a spot of fishing.
With much of the river located within the Ozarks, the scenery at times is breathtaking along the 40 or so miles that are floatable, featuring narrow canyons, woods, and tree-lined bluffs. There’s also a good chance of spotting a bear along the banks, with the area home to the state’s largest population of black bears.
2. Tenkiller State Park
Just over the state line in Oklahoma is the Tenkiller State Park, another popular spot for local boaters. Over the summer months, Lake Tenkiller is a hive of activity, with water sports enthusiasts and boaters flocking to the area. The lake has 130 miles of shoreline and is over 13,000 square acres, so there is no difficulty finding a quiet spot away from the crowds.
The spacious interior of the Kia Sorrento will be a real advantage should you wish to make a weekend of it and stay at one of the camping sites or cabins available at the state park. There is also excellent fishing on the lake for those looking to catch a fresh fish dinner to round out their day in the outdoors.
3. Lake Eufaula State Park
Lake Eufaula is Oklahoma’s largest lake and certainly won’t disappoint the boaters out there. With 600 miles of shoreline comprising cliffs, sandy beaches, and forests, there are plenty of places to explore that can only be accessed by water. The fish supply is plentiful at the lake, with it being a popular tournament fishing location.
There are plenty of accommodation options available, both within the state park and the nearby towns, for those looking to spend an extended period of time in the area. With a range of water sports, hiking trails, and different scenery to explore in addition to getting out on the water in the boat, it’s likely to be a popular destination among the whole family.
The area around Fort Smith certainly has plenty on offer for those with a boat. If you’re looking for some extra towing power to get your boat to its destination, give the team at Crain Kia of Fort Smith a call today.
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When dealing with your car AC not working, it can be challenging to discover the cause. There’s a wide range of issues that can cause your car’s air conditioning to fail. Here at Crain Kia of Fort Smith, your local Kia dealer, we’ve put together this list to help you understand some of the causes of car AC failure and what you can do about them.
Electrical Problems
Electrical problems are a common reason why a car’s AC can stop working. Electrical problems can also be one of the most difficult problems to diagnose when a car’s AC unit has stopped working.
The first step to determining if your AC issue is an electrical one is to visually inspect of all the related wiring to see if any wires are broken, frayed, or otherwise damaged. If you can spot signs of damage, chances are your AC woes are caused by an electrical problem.
Cooling Fan Problems
Another common reason why car AC units stop working is an issue with the unit’s cooling fan. When a cooling fan isn’t functioning correctly, your condenser may not receive enough cooling to operate effectively.
The condenser of your vehicle’s air conditioning unit is supposed to re-cool hot refrigerant once it has been compressed. If this process fails due to a faulty cooling fan, over time, it can cause your car to start emitting only hot air. You can check if your unit’s cooling fan is broken through a visual inspection.
Condenser Problems
Another reason why your Kia’s air conditioning can stop working is if your car’s condenser is blocked, damaged, or completely broken. A blocked, damaged, or broken condenser can be caused by road debris going through the grill of your car and blocking, damaging, or breaking the condenser. If you notice any noticeable blockages or punctures in the condenser upon a visual inspection, chances are that’s your culprit.
Visit Your Kia Dealer to Handle Issues With Your Car AC Not Working
No matter the cause, resolving car AC issues requires the skilled hand of a professional. For that reason, you’ll need to contact your local Kia specialists for assistance with your car’s AC problems.
These specialists can inspect wiring and components such as your car’s condenser for any signs of an issue. From there, your Kia specialists can then remove blockages and replace damaged or broken components with their inventory of parts to get you back on the road as quickly as possible.
We hope that we’ve helped you get a handle on your car’s AC issues. Without a doubt, car air conditioning issues can be many and varied. To find out more about what could be causing your Kia’s AC problems, visit us at Crain Kia of Fort Smith today!
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Summer is a great time to get out and about and spend your free time visiting somewhere new. Next time the sun is shining you could take a trip to one of these top summer activities near Fort Smith, AR.
3 Fun Summer Activities You Can Drive to From Fort Smith, AR
Parrot Island Water Park
Parrot Island is a great spot to visit to cool off on a hot day. Bring the whole family in your spacious Kia Sorento so the kids can enjoy the children’s aquatic play area and the Tiny Turtle’s activity pool. There’s plenty for the thrill seekers too, with a FlowRider surf simulator, a wave pool, and four large water slides. Inner tubes are complimentary, so grab one and relax on the lazy river.
There are plenty of food and drink options at the park, or if you’d rather bring a picnic then there’s plenty of seating, or you can rent a cabana. Deck and lounge chairs are free so it’s easy to relax by the pool or on the grass lawn areas. Don’t forget to grab a souvenir from the Tiki Hut gift shop on your way out.
Pine Lake
About a 45-minute drive away you’ll find Pine Lake, an aquamarine lake in Wood Buffalo National Park. Open from the May long weekend to Labor Day weekend, the sandy beaches and warm water make this spot well worth the trip. The conditions at Pine Lake are perfect for swimming, or if you prefer to stay dry take a kayak or paddleboard and take in the beautiful views of the surrounding forest.
Bring your own food and relax at one of the picnic tables. If you prefer a hot meal, there’s a cook shelter and fire pits, and firewood is available to buy. You can easily make a trip to Pine Lake into a whole weekend, with plenty of campsites available for both tents and RVs, and lakeside cabins to rent with spectacular views over the water.
Creekmore Park
This large city park is right in Downtown Fort Smith and has plenty of activities to keep the whole family busy. Hop on board the Creekmore Express miniature train and take a tour of the park, or explore the many walking trails if you prefer your own steam. If you’re feeling active there’s a fitness trail, tennis courts, and an outdoor Olympic-sized swimming pool with dive boards.
Try your hand at miniature golf on the 18-hole family-friendly course, or just kick back and relax at one of the benches and pavilions. There’s plenty of shade for those hot summer days and a large play area with equipment to suit kids of all ages. If that’s not enough, check out their summer schedule for events such as Movies in the Park and Baking Bootcamp.
However you like to spend your summer days, there are plenty of great outdoor options not too far away. When you’re ready to make your way home, stop off at Crain Kia of Fort Smith to see how we can help with all your motoring needs.
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Farmers’ markets are a great place to pick up some delicious fresh produce, and also a great way to support your local community. Next time you fancy a trip out in the car near Fort Smith, AR, take a drive to one of these local options.
3 Favorite Farmers’ Markets in Driving Distance of Fort Smith, AR
Fort Smith Farmers’ Market
Located in Historic Downtown Fort Smith, this market is open twice a week on Wednesday and Saturday mornings. Founded in 2003, the market has built a loyal following of vendors over the years with as many as 90 setting up stalls each week.
The market offers plenty of fresh produce, including fruit and vegetables, meats, and baked goods. There are also crafts and fine art on offer, all from within a 90-mile radius of Fort Smith. If you visit on a Saturday you’ll be entertained too, with street performers and local musicians bringing the market to life. With plenty of parking available nearby there’s no excuse not to give this place a go.
Chaffee Crossing Farmers’ and Artisans’ Market
With a festival feel, Chaffee Crossing is a great market to visit with the whole family. Each opening, on the second Saturday of the month from May through October, has its own theme with activities for both kids and adults as well as live music and demonstrations. Dogs are more than welcome too so you can take the whole gang in your Kia Carnival MPV.
Chaffee Crossing market is a fun family day out, but the main focus is homegrown produce, handmade crafts, and supporting the local people and businesses that sell them. If you can’t wait to get home and cook something with your goodies, grab a tasty treat from one of the food trucks providing local freshly cooked food.
Twin City Produce
Twin City is more of a permanent fixture than the other two options, so if you’re desperate for fresh fruit and vegetables and can’t wait for a market day elsewhere then this is the place for you. Open 5 days a week (closed Sunday and Monday) you can pop in regularly to keep your supplies topped up.
The focus here is fresh local produce at reasonable prices. Fruit, vegetables, beans, and nuts are all sold by the pound or by the case which keeps costs lower, giving you more for your money. The great value, along with helpful friendly staff, will have you returning to Twin City Produce for your regular fresh food shopping.
We all know produce tastes best fresh, and you’ll be spoilt for choice of delicious local treats at any of these three venues. Whether it’s a family day out or a regular stock-up, once you’ve finished your shopping stop in at Crain Kia of Fort Smith for all your new and used car needs.
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If you’re looking for a great way to explore nature, consider visiting one of the state parks near Fort Smith, AR. These parks offer plenty of activities for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages. Whether you’re interested in hiking, fishing, or simply taking a leisurely stroll through the park, you’ll find something to enjoy at one of these beautiful destinations.
Explore Nature With Your Kia: 2 State Parks a Short Drive From Fort Smith AR
1. Devil’s Den State Park
Devil’s Den State Park is home to various hiking trails, camping sites, and scenic views. Devil’s Den is especially well-known for its rock formations which have been carved out over time by wind and water. The park also features several caves that are perfect for exploring on a hot day.
In addition to its natural beauty, Devil’s Den State Park is also home to various wildlife, including deer, elk, and bighorn sheep. Visitors can enjoy fishing in the park’s many streams and ponds. Whether you’re looking for a challenging hike or a relaxing day in nature, Devil’s Den State Park is sure not to disappoint.
2. Ozark–St. Francis National Forest
Ozark National Forest is a nature lover’s paradise. Located in the Ozark Mountains of Arkansas, the forest combines two separate forests, Ozark National Forest and St. Francis National Forest. The forest is home to various wildlife, including black bears, deer, and wild turkeys. Also, you can spend your time hiking, camping, and fishing.
With over 1 million acres of land to explore, there’s something for everyone in Ozark National Forest. So whether you’re looking for a place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life or you’re searching for an adventure, be sure to add Ozark National Forest to your list of must-visit destinations.
3. Lee Creek Park
Looking for a great place to take a nature hike? Then be sure to check out Lee Creek Park in Arkansas. This beautiful park features over five miles of hiking trails lined with towering trees and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
Best of all, the park is home to various wildlife, including deer, squirrels, and birds. So whether you’re looking for a peaceful place to commune with nature or an exciting place for birdwatching, Lee Creek Park is sure to please.
The all-new KIA SORENTO SX is the perfect car for taking your family on drives to state parks near Fort Smith. It’s a reliable and safe car that’s great for families. It has power rear child safety locks, so you can rest assured your kids will be safe during the drive. Don’t miss out on this incredible car – come test drive one today. Visit Crain Kia of Fort Smith to find a vehicle that fits your needs.
Your Kia’s engine is rightfully called the heart. Without it, you’re not going anywhere, so it’s important to keep it in good shape. Engine problems can be difficult to manage, but here at your local Kia dealer, we can deal with them quickly and easily. Almost every problem is best fixed quickly, so make sure you give us a call as soon as you notice any of these common engine issues.
4 Engine Problems You Should Always Get Fixed at Your Kia Dealer
1. Engine Not Starting
It’s every driver’s worst nightmare: you’re heading somewhere important, you turn the ignition, and nothing happens. This is one of the most common engine issues, and it can be caused by a wide variety of factors. The most common causes are often not with the engine at all, but are due to a flat battery, either due to a fault with the battery itself or a faulty alternator.
However, there’s a huge range of possibilities that could be causing your engine not to start. If you suspect that the battery could be the culprit you might be able to jump-start the car to get you on your way – but you’ll still need to give us a call as soon as possible so we can fix the problem at the source.
2. Cooling Issues
Keeping your engine cool is vital in hot weather, so an issue with the cooling system can cause it to quickly overheat. One of the most common issues is leakage, which can reduce the amount of coolant in the system and therefore its cooling potential. Make sure you check the coolant levels regularly and top it up as needed. It’s best not to use tap water for this as it can result in corrosion within the radiator.
3. Strange Noises
Strange vibrations, odd clunks, rattles, and hums: there’s a wide range of noises that a faulty engine can make. It’s often tempting to ignore them if the engine still appears to run, but this is never a good idea as whatever the problem is it’s sure to get worse quickly! Instead, visit us, and we’ll get to the bottom of the issue in no time!
4. Timing Belt Problems
The timing belt or chain is one of the most important parts of your engine. If it’s not working correctly, you could see a lack of power, misfires, rattling sounds, or just poor running overall. You might also notice metal shavings in the engine oil, a sure sign that something is seriously wrong.
If you notice any of the above problems, don’t delay! Visit us at Crain Kia of Fort Smith today, and we’ll have your car back in top condition in no time!
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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.