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Award-Winning EV9 at Crain Kia of Fort Smith

The 2024 Kia EV9 is a three-row midsize electric SUV that’s making waves for all the right reasons. It was recently awarded the Top Safety Pick by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), which shows just how safe this car is. If you’re thinking about going electric, the Kia EV9 is a fantastic option that keeps you and your family protected.

The EV9 is available now at Crain Kia of Fort Smith. Click here to shop our selection.

What Makes the EV9 So Safe?

To win the Top Safety Pick award, cars have to pass rigorous safety testing. The Kia EV9 showcased how well it protects people in front and side crashes. It also has an excellent system for preventing crashes with pedestrians. This indicates how well the EV9 keeps everyone on the road safe, whether you’re inside or outside the vehicle.

New EV9 at Crain Kia of Fort Smith

Great Headlights for Night Driving

One of the Kia EV9’s standout features is its headlights. Adequate headlights are essential for safe driving at night, and the EV9’s performed really well. They provide clear visibility on both straight roads and curves, helping you see what’s ahead and making night driving safer. No matter which trim level you choose, the EV9’s headlights are designed to give you the best possible view of the road.

Built to Protect You in a Crash

The Kia EV9 is strong and safe. It earned top ratings in crash tests, meaning it does an excellent job of keeping everyone inside safe during an accident. The SUV’s structure holds up well in a crash, keeping the driver’s space safe and reducing the chance of injury. Whether you’re worried about your head, neck, chest, or legs, the EV9 works to protect every part of your body.

Advanced Safety Features

The EV9 also comes with an advanced front crash-prevention system. This works to avoid accidents with pedestrians. It works great in both day and night situations. The EV9 also includes other helpful features like blind-spot detection and lane departure warning, giving you extra protection and peace of mind while driving.

Leading the Way in Safety

The Kia EV9’s Top Safety Pick award shows how much effort Kia put into making this electric vehicle safe and reliable. As more people drive EVs, the EV9 sets high safety and performance standards. It’s a great choice for anyone looking for a safe, high-tech vehicle that’s paving the way for the future.

The 2024 Kia EV9 isn’t just another SUV—it’s a vehicle that puts your safety first. With top ratings from the IIHS and a variety of advanced safety features, the EV9 is a smart choice for anyone who wants to drive an electric car without compromising on safety. Whether you’re thinking about switching to electric or just want a reliable family SUV, the Kia EV9 is a great option that you can trust.

Come test drive an EV9 at Crain Kia of Fort Smith. Our Kia dealership is located at 6700 Autopark Drive in Fort Smith, AR.

Kia SUV in Fort Smith, Arkansas

Searching for the perfect car can be challenging. You’ll want to find a dependable vehicle that can transport you wherever you need to go while still being trendy. Fortunately, at Crain Kia of Fort Smith, we understand your concerns. That’s why every new Kia we sell is backed by a 10-year/100,000-mile warranty, giving you confidence in your car’s quality and reliability. Are you curious about the details of this industry-leading warranty? Keep on reading to find out more!

Are you shopping for a new Kia vehicle in Fort Smith, AR? Click here to shop Crain Kia of Fort Smith’s inventory.

Kia Warranty Program

The Kia Warranty Program covers Kia vehicles manufactured after 2008. This helps save you from any surprise costs. Now, you can relax and have fun with your new car without stressing over extra expenses.

What the Warranty Covers:

  • 10-year or 100,000-mile limited powertrain warranty
  • 5-year or 60,000-mile limited basic warranty
  • 5-year or 100,000-mile limited anti-perforation warranty
  • 5-year or 60,000-mile roadside assistance plan

Each policy lasts until you either drive the maximum miles or reach the year limit, depending on what happens first.

Repair Bills

If you have concerns about fixing your car, we have good news! The Kia Warranty program covers any repairs and ensures they meet Kia’s quality standards. Get in touch to find out everything included in this plan!

Does your Kia need a tuneup near Van Buren, AR? Click here to schedule a service appointment at Crain Kia of Fort Smith.

Emergency Roadside Assistance

If you find yourself stranded, there’s no need to panic. Emergency Roadside Assistance has your back. With a network of more than 17,000 service providers, they can help you with problems like a dead battery, a flat tire (as long as you have a spare), or running out of fuel. Contact Kia’s 24/7 toll-free assistance line for immediate support by dialing 1-800-333-4Kia.

Sportage at Crain Kia of Fort Smith

Trip Interruption Policy

If you’re away from home and your Kia needs to stay in the shop overnight for a covered repair, don’t stress! Kia offers a Trip Interruption Policy. If you’re over 150 miles from home and the repair requires more than a day, Kia will cover your expenses, such as meals, a place to stay, or even a rental car, up to $100 each day for a maximum of three days. All you need to do is call the number in your car’s manual, and the folks at Kia’s Consumer Assistance Center will help you determine if you qualify.

Are you looking to finance a new Kia vehicle? Click here to learn about our finance department.

The Kia Warranty offers superb protection and peace of mind. It helps you feel confident while away from home and keeps you safe and covered in case anything goes wrong. Have questions about the warranty or any policies? Contact us at Crain Kia of Fort Smith; we’d gladly help!

Do you want to test drive a Kia vehicle near Fort Smith, AR? Click here to learn how to sign up on our blog!

2025 Sorento in Fort Smith, AR

If you’re looking for a stylish SUV that performs well and comes with great features, consider the Sorento X-Line. It’s excellent for families, thanks to its three-row seating and comfy second-row captain’s chairs. Curious about this vehicle? Stay tuned to learn more from Ben Hardy’s hands-on review of the SUV on his YouTube channel.

Click here to shop Crain Kia of Fort Smith’s selection of Sorentos!

Hardy gave his thoughts on the Sorento X-Line SX Prestige model, emphasizing its characteristics. Starting off his walk around, he talked about the vehicle’s appearance, pointing out its Jungle Green hue that provides a metallic sheen. Hardy also highlights the car’s elegant black accents on the grille, wheels, and mirror caps, all of which enhance its design.

“With the new Sorento, you get these cool Amber headlights, which I think makes the car just look a lot more exciting,” said Hardy. “I like the taillight design. It’s very similar to the previous Sorento.”

Hardy moves to the car’s interior. Starting from the back, he opens the hatch and showcases how the middle-row seats can be easily folded down with just the push of a button. However, drivers will have to manually pull a strap to fold down the third row of seats.

“With the third row folded down, it’s got quite a bit of storage space there in the back,” said Hardy.

Sorento SUV at Crain Kia of Fort Smith

In the final part of the video, Hardy takes the Sorento X-Line SX Prestige out for a spin, sharing his last thoughts. While driving, he points out the turn signal camera that gives a clear view of the lane you’re shifting into. He also talks about how comfortable the driver’s seat is, noting its similarity in design to the Telluride, which also provides a comfortable journey with great visibility.

“When you put it all together, I think it looks pretty cool. It’s kind of boxy in the front and still boxy in the back but a little bit more rounded off in a way,” said Hardy.

He points out that no matter which model from the X-Line series you select, you’ll get a car with a sleek design. Hardy also thinks this trim will be a popular choice among car buyers.

Does your vehicle need an oil change near Van Buren, AR? Click here to learn about our available maintenance services.

Stop by Crain Kia of Fort Smith today to take a look at the Kia Sorento! This SUV can comfortably seat up to seven passengers and comes with cutting-edge safety features designed to keep everyone secure. Its standout rugged appearance is guaranteed to turn heads, and it doesn’t skimp on performance for all your adventures. Whether you’re interested in making a purchase or leasing this SUV, we’re here to help. Come by and test drive the Kia Sorento. Our Kia dealership is located at 6700 Autopark Drive in Fort Smith, Arkansas.

Do you want to custom order your new Kia Sorento? Click here to learn how to get started.

Kia Dealership in Fort Smith

Thanks to the Crain Commitment, choosing Crain Kia of Fort Smith brings peace of mind. We prioritize our customers above all, offering fantastic benefits. Are you curious to learn what we offer? Read on for more information.

Customer First

We at Crain Kia of Fort Smith want to make you, the customer, are pleased with your experience with us. As a family-owned business, we go the extra mile to ensure you have a pleasant visit. We’re all about giving you a hassle-free visit and going above and beyond what you expect. You can count on us for clear communication, respect, and trustworthiness.

The Crain Commitment

At Crain Kia of Fort Smith, our commitment to you is straightforward – every new or used vehicle includes a warranty lasting 100 years or up to 100,000 miles. If you’re unhappy with your purchase, feel free to return it within the first 100 hours for a hassle-free exchange. Did we forget to mention that we beat any price?

Shopping New

Check out our wide range of brand-new Kia cars. We offer vehicles in various styles, models, and sizes. Plus, we now sell electric vehicles!

New Kia Vehicle Lineup:

Order Your New Car

Design the Kia of your dreams with our customization tool! Visit our website today to begin ordering your new vehicle.

Purchasing Used

Are you looking for an affordable car near Fort Smith, Arkansas? We’ve got fantastic news – our selection of pre-owned vehicles includes hot picks like Ford F-150 and Chevrolet Silverado trucks. Contact our sales crew now to discover our current offerings! Or visit our website to start shopping!

Buying Certified Pre-owned

Before going up for sale, our Kia Certified Pre-owned vehicles go through a thorough inspection and review process. Additionally, different warranties are provided for each vehicle model.

Ready to start shopping for your certified pre-owned car near Van Buren, AR? Click here to shop our CPO vehicle selection!

Vehicle Maintenance

Don’t forget to take your vehicle to Crain Kia of Fort Smith for a routine check-up and any necessary repairs! Whether it’s changing your oil, rotating your tires, or repairing your brakes, we’ve got you covered.

Click here to schedule your service appointment in Fort Smith, AR.

Kia Sedans in Fort Smith, AR

Financing

Our team is ready to help you find the perfect car that matches your budget! We’ll collaborate with you to create a payment plan that suits your lifestyle and budget.

Click here to learn more about our financing department.

Amenities

Hang out in our inviting sitting area. This space is perfect for both car shoppers and customers waiting for the service team to finish working on their vehicles. Plus, you can enjoy our complimentary gourmet coffee, tea, and snacks.

Now that you know what you can expect from us, you’re ready to start shopping! Drop by Crain Kia of Fort Smith for our outstanding customer service, selection, and amenities. We can’t wait to see you!

Our dealership is located at 6700 Autopark Drive in Fort Smith, AR.

EV9 in Fort Smith, AR

Big news for electric vehicle enthusiasts out there! The 2024 Kia EV9 has just scooped another award. This car got the Favorite Plug-In Vehicle Award from the Midwest Automotive Media Association (MAMA). This recognition highlights Kia’s ongoing commitment to innovation and excellence in the electric vehicle market. Keep reading for more details on the achievements of this impressive electric SUV.

“The three-row EV9 builds upon all of the strengths of the gas-powered Telluride: striking styling, an upscale and roomy interior, premium on-road dynamics, and, of course, a generous mix of the brand’s latest and greatest technology,” said MAMA President Robert Duffer. 

Achieving Greatness

The Midwest Automotive Media Association (MAMA) celebrated the EV9 as its favorite Plug-in Vehicle. They highlighted its excellence in performance, stylish looks, and advanced technology. Automotive journalists from across the Midwest gathered to review the latest cars at this event. During the MAMA Spring Rally, the EV9 stood out to those judging. This recognition plays a significant role in shaping Kia’s approach to electric vehicles.

EV9 trim at Crain Kia of Fort Smith

“As the industry pivots towards EVs, it’s important consumers have approachable, capable, and impressive products to choose from, and MAMA’s attentive nationwide membership of journalists, analysts, and other media professionals clearly recognized that when crowning the EV9 as its Favorite Plug-In Vehicle,” said Duffer.

The MAMA Spring Rally is an important gathering for those in the car world. At this event, top experts get together to look at and honor the best vehicles available. The EV9, which won the award for Favorite Plug-In Vehicle, showcases how much people like it. It also spotlights Kia as a leader in electric vehicle production.

“We are thrilled that the Kia EV9 has been recognized by the Midwest Automotive Media Association,” said Kia America’ COO & EVP, Steven Center. “This award reflects our dedication to creating vehicles that not only meet the needs of our customers but also contribute to sustainable mobility. The EV9 embodies Kia’s vision of a new era of electric mobility, combining innovation, style, and performance in a way that sets new standards for the industry.”

Click here to learn about the EV9’s other awards!

EV9 Three-Row electric car

About the EV9

The 2024 Kia EV9 is available now at Crain Kia of Fort Smith! This vehicle is a real standout thanks to its blending style, power, and eco-friendliness. This car is also part of Kia’s commitment to sustainability. The EV9 has room for up to seven passengers. It also manages to pack advanced safety and innovative driving technologies. It offers rapid charging and a range of up to 304 miles. This makes it ideal for both city drives and off-road explorations. There are also several different trims to match your preferred mix of luxury and performance. Come by Crain Kia of Fort Smith to check out the EV9’s sleek interior and striking design. We’re located at 6700 Autopark Drive in Fort Smith, Arkansas. Plus, you can custom order your EV9 directly through our website.

Ready to purchase an EV9 near Van Buren, AR? Click here to shop our selection of Kia EV9s in Fort Smith, AR.

Kia Sedans For Sale in Fort Smith, AR

As summer wraps up, college students prepare to move from their relaxed summer vacation to a semester packed with fresh challenges and exciting possibilities.

Starting college involves more than organizing your schedule or deciding whether to live in a dorm or an off-campus apartment. It also includes figuring out your transportation, especially if you live far from campus or begin an internship. Many students are searching for a reliable car that can handle everything from late-night study sessions and quick grocery runs to road trips with buddies and visits home.

At Crain Kia of Fort Smith, we’re here to help you pick the best car for your college journey. Keep reading to find the right vehicle for your return to school.

New Kia Sedans For Sale in Fort Smith, AR

Forte: Compact Sedan

Are you shopping for a compact car that’s kind to your wallet and saves on gas? The Kia Forte could be your ideal pick. It’s affordable and fashionable, making it an excellent choice for students searching for a dependable car for everyday use. And for those who prefer driving with a bit more control, the Forte is available with a manual transmission.

Click here to find your Kia Forte in Fort Smith, AR.

K5: Midsize Sedan

If you’re on the hunt for a roomy sedan with superb performance, check out the Kia K5. It comes standard with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that gives you 191 horsepower and 181 pound-feet of torque, which means it’s both peppy and fuel-efficient. Plus, if you’re after even more oomph, there are trims available with a turbocharged 2.5-liter engine. This one ups the ante with 290 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque, making for an even zippier and more thrilling ride.

Looking for a K5 in Fort Smith, AR? Click here to find yours!

Soul Hatchbacks at Crain Kia of Fort Smith

Soul: Hatchback

Drive to class in style with the Kia Soul! This hatchback offers a comfortable and spacious ride. It provides 120 cubic feet of interior space. When you fold down the seats, you get even more room, up to 62.1 cubic feet, perfect for easily moving all your things to and from your dorm.

Click here to find your Soul near Van Buren, AR.

New SUVs at Crain Kia of Fort Smith

Seltos: SUV

The 2024 Kia Seltos is a great car for students. It has a new, exciting look with LED lights and updated bumpers, grille, and wheels. Inside, the car is designed for comfort and luxury, with high-tech features like an excellent Bose sound system and convenient wireless phone charging. This makes the Kia Seltos a perfect option for busy students.

Shopping for a Kia Seltos near Fort Smith, AR? Click here to find yours!

Are you on the hunt for the perfect college car? The fall semester is kicking off, and owning a car can make campus life much easier. Now’s the ideal time to choose a spacious car, good on gas, and won’t break the bank. Swing by Crain Kia of Fort Smith, and we’ll help you find the perfect ride for the school year. Our dealership is located at 6700 Autopark Drive in Fort Smith, AR. 

Kia IVT Automatic Transmission

Kia continues to innovate its vehicle capability by adding advanced features that improve driving. Intelligent variable transmissions (IVT) are one of the manufacturer’s most exciting implementations. This new tech is a big step up from regular automatic transmissions because it makes the car drive smoother, uses less fuel, and responds better when you press the gas. Kia’s goal with the IVT is to make drives more fun and cars more fuel-efficient, keeping them ahead in the fast-changing world of cars. Keep reading to see how this transmission technology can improve your driving experience.

Are you shopping for a Kia vehicle with an Intelligent Variable Transmission? Click here to shop Crain Kia of Fort Smith’s inventory.

Intelligent Variable Transmission Explained

An intelligent variable transmission is an advanced version of continuous variable transmission (CVT) but is even more efficient. If you’re unfamiliar with CVTs, they are transmissions capable of shifting smoothly through an unlimited range of effective gear ratios, unlike traditional transmissions with a limited set of gear changes and can feel rough when they shift.

New 2024 Kia Soul Hatchback at Crain Kia of Fort Smith

CVT vs IVT

A common issue with traditional CVTs is that they tend to be quite noisy and lack responsiveness, making the driving experience less fun. IVTs, however, offer a smoother ride by mimicking gear changes and using a wide-ratio pulley system. This system covers a larger range of operations, which means you enjoy better gas mileage on higher gears and enhanced performance on lower ratios.

Driver Feedback

IVTs stand out because they effectively blend features, making them highly adaptable. The use of Kia’s Shift Control Strategy is a key factor here, as it boosts the car’s response to the driver’s commands, acceleration, and overall performance. Additionally, this technology enhances gear shifting, making it feel similar to the smooth transitions of regular automatic transmissions.

Manual Mode

Forte at Crain Kia of Fort Smith

Looking for a way to make your driving experience more exciting? Try out the Manual Mode. This feature lets you change gears, offering a more dynamic driving experience. Simply slide the shift lever from “Drive” to “Manual,” and you’re all set. Your vehicle will then adapt the steering, engine, and transmission settings to match.

This setting lets you choose the timing for shifting the transmission to a higher gear. Additionally, you can change gears even while stepping on the accelerator, which you can’t do with manual transmissions.

IVT Tips

  • Just like with CVTs, if you press the accelerator all the way down, the transmission will change to a lower gear. This is useful for overtaking another car or going up a hill.
  • When starting to drive off from a stop, smoothly press down on the gas pedal. If you try to speed up quickly, you might notice a brief delay.

IVT transforms driving into a more enjoyable activity and offers a smarter approach to navigating the city. Kia is advancing by improving upon what’s already there, ensuring a more pleasant driving experience.

If you’re still curious about Intelligent Variable Transmissions and how they work, feel free to contact the sales team at Crain Kia of Fort Smith. We’re here to answer any questions you might have and assist you in finding the perfect vehicle for your needs.

Kia EV3 Preview

Kia just announced their new car, the EV3. It’s an all-electric SUV that takes the cool tech from their EV9 model and puts it into a smaller package. This move is part of Kia’s effort to make eco-friendly vehicles more accessible to people and boost their green initiatives.

The EV3 embodies our design philosophy perfectly – a combination of playful design combined with thoughtful functionality,” said Executive Vice President and Head of Kia Global Design Karim Habib. “Though compact, the inspiring exterior envelops an open interior space that emphasizes restorative relaxation for every journey.”

It’s rumored that the EV3 might hit the U.S. markets in the coming years. Keep reading to see what this fresh addition brings to the table for both seasoned EV enthusiasts and those new to the electric car scene.

Click here to check out our lineup of EVs at Crain Kia of Fort Smith.

Design

The exterior styling is modern and bold, with strong features that make it look dynamic. It clearly stands out from its rivals.

Inside the EV3

This electric vehicle has enough space for up to five people, offering plenty of room for both passengers and their belongings, ensuring a practical and cozy journey. Kia mentions that this latest model is designed to transition millions into the era of electric vehicles.

“Its future-facing aesthetic is further emboldened by the choice of daring colors; inside, the spacious cabin and the incorporation of new organic materials express a youthful sense of energy and playfulness,” said Habib.

Electric Power

Thanks to its large 81.4kWh battery, the EV3 is set to lead the pack with a driving distance of around 372 miles on a single charge. It can also quickly recharge, going from 10% to 80% battery in just 31 minutes. Plus, its unique aerodynamic shape and complete 3D undercover contribute to its efficiency and performance.

“The Kia EV3 has been designed and engineered to meet the needs of customers who want a car that matches their sustainability values but do not want to compromise their practical everyday needs,” said Vice President and Head of Global Business Planning Spencer Cho.

i-Pedal 3.0

Get ready for premium EV driving! Thanks to the new i-Pedal 3.0, you can now set your desired levels for regenerative braking. This makes long drives less tiring and helps save more energy.

Ultra-wide Panorama Display with Premium Sound

Kia EV3 Interior

The EV3’s 30-inch widescreen display makes it simple to manage your media, maps, and other features. With a Harman Kardon Sound System, you can expect top-notch audio quality, and you can personalize your screen with various display themes!

Streaming

Now, you can watch your favorite shows in your car! Premium Streaming lets you turn your vehicle into a private movie theater.

Advanced Driving Assistance Systems

Thanks to Kia’s cutting-edge driver assistance features, enjoy the advantage of technology that keeps you ahead.

  • High Beam Assist
  • Smart Cruise Control with Stop and Go
  • Lane Following Assist
  • Surround View Monitor
  • Parking Collision-Avoidance Assist- Reverse
  • Parking Distance Warning
  • Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist
  • Highway Driving Assist
  • Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist
  • Lane Keeping Assist
  • Intelligent Speed Limit Assist
  • Safe Exit Assist
  • Driver Attention Warning
  • Blind Spot View Monitor

Over-the-Air Updates 

Take your vehicle ownership experience to the next level with hassle-free Over-the-Air Updates! With this feature, you can effortlessly update, enhance, and introduce new functionalities to your vehicle remotely.

Kia AI Assistant

The Kia AI Assistant is always ready to assist! Whether it’s suggesting a different path, locating a nearby eatery or shop, adjusting the temperature inside the car, or putting together a fresh playlist, this innovative feature is here to help!

The EV3 isn’t available in the US just yet, but it’s expected to arrive soon. Stay tuned for updates from us at Crain Kia of Fort Smith. Meanwhile, check out the Kia EV6 and EV9 models available for purchase at our dealership, located at 6700 Autopark Drive in Fort Smith, Arkansas. 

EV9 NBA Theme

This past spring, Kia launched a neat feature for basketball lovers! Now, 2024 Kia EV9 drivers can spruce up their car’s digital cluster display with the colors and logo of their favorite NBA team. Don’t own an EV9? Not to worry! Other vehicles with Kia’s latest Connected Car Navigation Cockpit system will get this feature, too. It’s a fun way for fans to show their team pride on the road.

“As avid basketball enthusiasts, we’re thrilled to introduce our latest available OTA update, which combines the thrill of the NBA with the opportunity to personalize your Kia vehicle,” said COO and EVP of Kia America, Steven Center. 

Are you looking to purchase a Kia vehicle? Visit Crain Kia of Fort Smith in Fort Smith, Arkansas, and we can help you get into a new fully electric, hybrid, or plug-in hybrid vehicle. You can also shop our inventory online by clicking here.

Now, there’s a cool new way for basketball fans to show support for their favorite NBA teams, like the Memphis Grizzlies or the Oklahoma City Thunder, right from their cars. Some EV9 trims will offer unique sounds that play when you get in and out of the car, letting you celebrate your team each time you enter and exit your vehicle. This is a great way for fans to demonstrate their team spirit.

EV9 Steering wheel Instrument Cluster

“This is just the tip-off, as we’re committed to enhancing the ownership and driving experience with more exciting themes, collaborations, and digital features to be introduced in the future.”

The 2024 Kia EV9 leads the way in Kia’s newest tech innovations, thanks to updates that can be wirelessly installed usingOver-the-Air (OTA) technology. This innovative feature means the car keeps getting better, enhancing how it performs and the entertainment it offers. Soon, these new NBA team themes will also be available for other Kia models that have the ccNC infotainment system. Fans eager to show off their team pride can purchase display themes featuring their favorite NBA teams for$39.99 each. These themes are up for grabs through the Kia Connect Store, accessible via the Kia Access app or through the Kia Owner’s Portal.

The All-New 2024 Kia EV9

The 2024 Kia EV9, a brand-new three-row electric vehicle, has become very popular and won multiple awards. It was named World Car of the Year and World Electric Vehicle at the 2024 World Car Awards. It also topped the 2024 Edmunds Top Rated list as the Best of the Best, and Top Gear awarded it the 2023 Family Car of the Year title.

Ready to purchase a new electric vehicle? Click here to shop our selection of Kia EV9s in Fort Smith, AR.

At Crain Kia of Fort Smith in Fort Smith, AR, we’re thrilled to offer a fantastic selection of 2024 EV9s and other beloved Kia vehicles, including the Telluride, K5, and Sorento. Come see them at our dealership located at 6700 Autopark Drive in Fort Smith, Arkansas, or customize your order on our website today.

EV6 Hood and Front Tire

It’s a good idea to check your brakes often. They’re a crucial part of your car, made up of things like brake pads and rotors. If they’re starting to fail or wear down, there are obvious signs you shouldn’t ignore. We at Crain Kia of Fort Smith, located in Fort Smith, AR, are here to help you spot these warning signs.

Screeching

If you notice a noise when you brake while driving, it’s important to have your car inspected. According to AAA, sharp, high-pitched, or grinding noises can indicate that your brake pads are worn and need to be replaced. Karim Nice from the How Stuff Works‘ blog explains that this kind of noise is usually from the brake pad’s wear indicator. This means the pad is thinning and starting to scrape against the disc, which causes the squealing sound.

Vibration

Does your brake pedal shake or feel odd? That’s typically a sign that your rotor needs attention.Autozone‘s blog points out that hearing scraping noises or experiencing delayed or uneven braking means it’s probably time for a rotor change. They explain that rotors can go for up to 60,000 miles with mainly highway driving. On the other hand, city driving, with its frequent stops, might wear them out after just 20,000 miles. If you suspect your car’s rotors need replacing, making an appointment withCrain Kia of Fort Smith service team is a smart move.

EV9 in Fort Smith, AR

The Brake Pedal

Pressing the brake pedal should feel solid and stop the vehicle quickly. However, Chantel Wakefield mentions in a Kelley Blue Book blog post that if the pedal feels soft and spongy, it’s a sign your car might need repair. This could be because of a few reasons, like a leak in the brake line, not enough brake fluid, or air getting into the brake line. If you’re experiencing a soft brake pedal, it’s a good idea to get it checked by our certified service team.

Dash ABS Light

When the ABS light pops up on your car’s dashboard, it’s time to pay attention to your brakes or have a professional check them out. According to Dustin Hawley from J.D. Power‘s blog, the ABS system monitors the speed of each wheel on your car, ensuring they’re all moving at the same rate. It uses a special sensor to spot any discrepancies and alerts you by turning on a warning light on the dashboard. If this light comes on, it usually means one of four main issues are at play.

Potential Issues

  • The ABS Module is not working properly.
  • Your car’s brake fluid is depleting.
  • The sensors tracking the speed of your wheels are malfunctioning.
  • The system has been deactivated.

It’s really important to ensure your car’s brakes are functioning properly for your safety and the safety of others on the road. Watch out for any indicators that there could be issues with your car’s brakes. Remember to schedule your next service appointment at Crain Kia of Fort Smith!