Car Care FAQs
SERVICE & PARTS SPECIALS SCHEDULE SERVICE
Expert car care tips from Kia Certified Master Technicians. Cars are one of the most expensive investments we make. Taking good care of your Kia or Hyundai extends its lifespan, minimizes repair expenses, and protects your resale value. Kia Country’s Service Department is committed to helping you keep your car in optimal condition.
The check engine light can indicate different problems, from a loose gas cap to a faulty sensor. You can drive your car for a short time before getting it inspected. However, if the check engine light is blinking, STOP your car immediately and call Kia Country of Hilton Head or the nearest service station to prevent serious damage.
The frequency of oil changes depends on how you drive and where you live. For Hilton Head’s weather conditions, Kia Country advises you to change your oil every six months or 5000 miles.
The lifespan of your brakes depends on how you drive. If you brake frequently or abruptly, especially in urban or mountainous areas, your brakes will wear out faster. You may need to replace them as soon as 40,000 miles. If you brake gently and gradually, your brakes will last longer. You may be able to drive up to 70,000 miles before changing them.
A possible cause of brake noise is morning moisture. Since brakes no longer contain asbestos, they are made of harder materials that may produce some squeaking. This is normal, but loud squeaking, grinding, or other noises when braking indicate a problem that needs to be checked.
The vehicle’s air filter system prevents unpleasant smells from entering the cabin. It does this by filtering the air from outside before it reaches the passengers.
The recommended interval for replacing the filter is around 15,000 miles under normal driving conditions. However, this may vary depending on the environmental factors, such as dust or foliage, that affect the filter’s performance.
The engine’s air filter is a vital component that ensures optimal performance and fuel efficiency. By trapping dust, dirt and debris, it prevents them from entering the engine and causing damage. A clean air filter also improves the airflow and reduces the strain on the engine, resulting in lower emissions and better gas mileage.
A good way to maintain your car’s performance and fuel efficiency is to replace the air filter regularly. Depending on your driving conditions, you may need to do this every 10-15,000 miles. This is a general guideline that you can follow to keep your engine running smoothly.
Depending on the model, there are different types of belts in a car, such as alternator, air conditioning and timing belts. These belts typically have a lifespan of four years or 60,000 miles, but they may wear out faster if they show signs of cracking. It is important to check and replace the belts regularly to avoid damage to the engine or other components.
A battery’s lifespan depends on several factors, such as the ambient temperature, the quality of the production, and the frequency of use. Typically, a battery can last up to three years, but this may vary. A battery may degrade faster in extreme heat or cold, or if it has a manufacturing defect.
Annual antifreeze inspection and 60,000-mile replacement are recommended. This prevents coolant from becoming acidic and causing rust and corrosion in the radiator. Otherwise, the system may get clogged and lead to a head gasket failure or another serious repair.
The recommended interval for replacing radiator hoses is every four years or 60,000 miles, whichever comes first. However, some signs of wear and tear may indicate that the hoses need to be changed sooner, such as swelling, cracking, or leaking. Radiator hoses are essential for the proper functioning of the cooling system, so it is important to inspect them regularly and replace them as needed.
Rotating your tires every other oil change is a good practice to prolong their durability. This way, you can prevent uneven wear and tear on your tires and improve your vehicle’s performance. Rotating your tires regularly can also save you money on gas and maintenance costs.
The depth of the tread on your tires is important for braking and safety. You should look for new tires when your tread depth is 4/32nds of an inch or less. You should replace your tires immediately if your tread depth is 3/32nds of an inch or less.
The lifespan of windshield wiper blades depends on various factors, such as weather conditions, ice accumulation and rainfall frequency. Over time, the rubber material of the blades can deteriorate and lose its effectiveness. Typically, windshield wiper blades need to be replaced every 12 to 18 months.
Tire pressure monitoring systems remind you to check and fill the air pressure in your tires. This should be done monthly as seepage and ambient temperature affect pressure. The Check Engine Light can mean something minor such as a gas cap to a mechanical sensor or more serious problem. You should have this checked by a qualified service technician.
Our team of service technicians is highly qualified and certified by the factory. They undergo several training courses every year to keep their certification up to date. We only use Kia genuine parts that ensure proper fit and function. We offer a free multi-point inspection every time you come to us, which includes checking all fluids, all filters, tire pressure and tread depth, wiper blades and brakes. Our Service Department also keeps track of any outstanding recalls and service actions and provides fast, friendly service. But don’t take our word for it. See our 5-star rating on Dealerrater.com, where 100% of our customers have rated our Service Department excellent and say they would recommend us.
Our technicians are skilled and trained in servicing various models of vehicles. Whether you own a Kia, Hyundai or another brand, you can rely on us to take care of your car maintenance needs.
We value integrity and it shows in our 5-star reputation and our loyal customers. We always try to give you written proof of any issue we find in your car, such as a battery test or a check engine light test. If you get a recommendation for a repair, ask for the reason, the consequences of not doing it, and especially if it is a safety risk.
