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A person standing in front of a yellow background while holding a set of car keys near Orangeburg, South Carolina

Navigating Kia's Extended Warranty Options: What's Covered?

Every brand new Kia automatically comes with a powerful factory warranty. After it expires, you can take advantage of even better coverage through the Kia extended warranty program, depending on your vehicle's age and mileage. As your Kia dealer, we can help you navigate which of these three plans is right for you. more Powertrain Coverage The most basic extended warranty plan from Kia is the Powertrain Protection Plan. This includes coverage for your engine, transmission, transfer case, drive axle, transaxle, and some internal components for hybrid, plug-in electric, and compressed natural gas vehicles. With this or any extended warranty from Kia, your vehicle may be covered for up to 150,000 miles. Gold Coverage A Gold Protection Plan is the next level up from the powertrain coverage. It includes everything in the Powertrain Protection Plan while offering coverage for more parts of your vehicle. This includes the electrical system, brakes, air conditioning, steering, front suspension, and rear suspension. Additional hybrid, plug-in electric, and compressed natural gas components like the battery, charging system, and more are also included. Platinum Coverage For the "Ultimate Peace of Mind" for your vehicle, you may be able to choose the Platinum Protection Plan. At this level, you have near bumper-to-bumper coverage for your vehicle. The only things not included in this plan are the listed exclusions. You can rest easy knowing you're taken care of if something happens to your Kia. Exclusions from coverage include: Negligence from lack of maintenance Damage from misuse Tires Brake drums, lining, and rotors Catalytic converters Heater and radiator hoses Air bags Glass Paint Upholstery Coverage for any of the available extended warranty plans is determined by the age, model, and mileage of your vehicle. A deductible will also apply when using your extended warranty. Roadside Assistance All of our protection plans include roadside assistance coverage, as well. You receive help paying for alternative transportation like a car rental or rideshare for up to 10 days when you experience a covered mechanical breakdown. If you're 100 miles or more from home during a covered breakdown, you'll also receive travel reimbursement for food and lodging. Towing and fluid replacement are also included in roadside assistance. Even if you haven't purchased a protection plan yet, you're still in luck. Roadside assistance is also available for new Kia owners during the factory warranty. When you purchase one of Kia's extended warranty plans, you can take your vehicle to any Kia dealership in the United States or Canada for service. Take advantage of this opportunity for peace of mind wherever you are on the road. Contact Burns Kia of Orangeburg, SC to choose the right protection plan for your Kia.

A 2024 Kia Forte parked on a city street near Orangeburg, South Carolina

Trim Levels of the 2024 Kia Forte

The 2024 Kia Forte is a stylish, sporty, fuel-efficient compact sedan available at your local Kia dealer. You can't go wrong with any of the trims, but let's explore the differences between the levels. more LX The base model Forte comes nicely equipped. It has available in gravity gray, clear white, or aurora black pearl. It has woven cloth seats and can carry 5 passengers. With the LX's infotainment system, you'll always be well-connected. Its 8-inch touchscreen display has wireless Bluetooth technology and is compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, giving you access to your smartphone's music, maps, texts, and apps. It comes with a 4-speaker audio system. Driver-Assistance The Forte comes with a collection of features that make driving less stressful. One of the key assistance features is Driver Attention Warning. This monitors the driver for signs of reduced alertness and lets you know if you need a break. Other driver-assistance features on the base model include: Rear occupant alert Lane following assist Lane keeping assist LXS The LXS comes with 16-inch alloy wheels and larger tires. It's available in an extended selection of exterior colors: Steel gray Snow white pearl Deep sea blue Currant red Fire orange The LXS also adds 60/40 split-folding rear seats, giving you the option of additional cargo space. GT-Line The GT-Line is bolder and more aggressive. Its upgraded exterior has 17-inch alloy wheels, LED foglights and taillights, rear spoiler, and black gloss mirrors. It also has distinctively GT touches like a bold grille with red accents. The GT-Line comes with remote start and pre-cooling and heating. Connectivity and Audio The GT-Line has a premium infotainment system that features a 10.25-inch touchscreen display with built-in navigation and a 6-speaker audio system. Other connectivity features added to the GT-Line include SiriusXM radio and Kia Connect. Driver-Assistance The sportier, more aggressive GT-Line also comes with additional assistance features, such as Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist. This alerts you to vehicles in your blind spot, and will put on the brakes or steer you away if needed. GT The GT takes the same aggressive styling as the GT-Line, but its added LED headlights, 18-inch wheels, and dual exhaust tips give it an even sportier look. The GT comes with a turbocharged engine capable of generating 201 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque. It has a 7-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters. GT Manual The GT Manual is very similar to the GT, but it has a 6-speed manual transmission. It is the only trim that has heated seats and a sunroof as standard features. The GT Manual comes with a premium Harman Kardon audio system with 8 speakers and a subwoofer. Which of the comfortable, safe, and connected Forte trims is right for you? Come out to Burns Kia in Orangeburg, SC to take a test drive and find out.

A car belt being held near the camera during a car service appointment near Orangeburg, South Carolina

Does Your Kia Need a New Timing Belt?

While you're on the road, the timing belt keeps various parts of your car's engine working in smooth synchronization. By connecting the crankshaft and camshaft, the timing belt ensures that the intake and exhaust valves work in perfect unison with the pistons. If your timing belt ever wears out, the engine won't be able to continue functioning at all. Here are a few common indicators that your Kia timing belt might need prompt attention at your local Kia dealer. more Engine Sputters and Shakes When a timing belt starts to wear down or slip loose, the engine's cylinders might start to open and close at the wrong moment. This can lead to misfiring spark plugs, which causes the engine to sputter and vibrate. If not fixed quickly, misfiring can rapidly worsen and cause problems in other parts of the car. Strange Ticking Sounds Timing belts have hard teeth that grip the pulleys. If the teeth of a timing belt begin to wear away, you can often hear the clacking or ticking as the gaps run rapidly over the pulleys. Weakened Acceleration A faulty timing belt can sometimes cause acceleration to diminish when the car reaches over 2,000 RPMs. Under the pressure of this acceleration, a belt with missing teeth can slip, causing odd rattling sounds, excessive vibrations, and a loss of power. Thickening Exhaust Fumes When a timing belt begins to wear out, the engine becomes overworked. This additional strain generates excessive exhaust fumes, which you might notice thickening the air like smoke behind your car. The aforementioned misfiring can also cause exhaust fumes to thicken with smoke. Engine Refuses To Start If a timing belt breaks and stops working altogether, the engine will also fail to function. This means you won't even be able to start your car in the morning. When they can't start their car, most drivers check the battery first. You might need to look at the timing belt too. Engine Suddenly Stops Working In the worst-case scenario, a worn-out timing belt could break while the car's on the road. This would bring the vehicle to an abrupt halt. Needless to say, this is extremely hazardous; you'll hopefully notice the early warning signs of timing belt trouble long before it breaks. Have Your Kia Timing Belt Checked at Your Local Kia Dealer If you suspect timing belt issues, it's worth having a professional take a look. A trusted technician at your local dealership can quickly ascertain the condition of your belt. They can also promptly replace it with a new one if required. Visit Burns Kia in Orangeburg, SC, today to have your timing belt inspected or replaced. We're a full-service dealership offering the region's drivers a wide range of excellent new and pre-owned vehicles plus award-winning customer service.

A brake system being serviced on a car near Orangeburg, SC

When to Get Your Kia's Brakes Serviced

Cruising in your Kia should be nothing but smooth sailing, whether you're driving down the freeway or easing to a stop at a light. Your brakes play a huge role in making sure those stops are not just smooth but also safer. To keep them ready for action, they'll need regular Kia brake service. Here's what you need to know about your brakes, courtesy of your Kia dealer. more How Often You Need a Kia Brake Service There's no one-size-fits-all schedule for giving your brakes a once-over. It really depends on your driving style. You should aim to get them looked at about once a year. A handy tip? Get your brakes inspected every time you're in for a tire rotation, which is roughly every six months or 6,000 miles. It's a great way to stay ahead of any brake issues. Why Your Brakes Need to Be Serviced Brake servicing is sometimes about more than safety, it's also about maintaining their performance. Over time, brake pads wear down, brake fluid can become contaminated, and rotors may need resurfacing or replacing. Regular servicing ensures that every component of your brake system is in peak condition, preventing more expensive repairs down the line. What Happens During a Brake Service Pad and shoe inspection Brake fluid check Rotor and drum inspection Line and hose check System cleanup and adjustment Signs You May Need to Visit the Kia Dealer for Brake Service Squeaks and Grinding Sounds Does hitting the brake pedal cause squealing or grinding sounds? That's a tell-tale sign your brake pads are likely worn out and need replacing. Shaky Brakes Feeling a shiver through your car or pulsing in the brake pedal when you press it? This could mean your rotors are warped and need to be replaced. Brake Pedal Feels Soft If the brake pedal feels unusually soft or sinks to the floor, it could mean there's air in the hydraulic system or a problem with the brake fluid. Car Pulls to One Side While Braking Is your Kia veering to the side when you brake? It could be due to even wear on the brake pads or issues with the brake fluid. Brake Warning Light This one might seem obvious but if your brake warning light comes on, it's time to get your brakes checked out immediately. Leaking Fluid Spotting a pool of fluid under your car could mean a leak in the brake system, which needs immediate attention. Keeping up with your Kia's brakes means more than just taking care of your car: you're also taking care of everyone in it. Whether you're noticing signs of trouble or it's been a while since you checked your brakes, call Burns Kia in Orangeburg, SC, to schedule a service.

A service technician performing an inspection on a car near Orangeburg, South Carolina

Ready for Summer? Check out our Service Checklist

Vacation season is just around the corner, and we want you to be ready for anything. Run through our service checklist below to help catch some common issues that drivers run into. Schedule an appointment with us online today! more Does Your Kia Need New Tires? Proper tire maintenance is crucial for the safety and performance of your Kia. Key indicators that your tires need replacing include tread depth below 2/32 inches, visible wear indicator bars, uneven wear due to improper inflation or misalignment, visible damage like cuts or cracks, and age factors, with a general recommendation to replace tires every six to ten years. Burns Kia offers a selection of quality tires to ensure your vehicle remains safe on the road. Should You Schedule an Engine Diagnostic? Regular engine diagnostics can preemptively address potential issues, enhancing your Kia's performance and longevity. Diagnostics cover the check engine light, emission system, fuel system, ignition system, sensor functionality, exhaust system, and transmission health. Identifying problems early can prevent costly repairs and ensure optimal vehicle operation. Burns Motors Kia offers professional diagnostics to keep your Kia in top condition. How Often Should Your Kia Get Routine Brake Service? Brake service is crucial for safety, with a recommendation for servicing every 5,000 to 7,000 miles or about every six months. This includes inspecting brake pads, rotors, and calipers for wear and tear. Driving habits and conditions can affect the frequency, with harsher conditions requiring more frequent service. Burns Motors Kia offers professional brake services to ensure your vehicle remains safe and responsive on the road. Does your Kia’s Oil Filter Need to be Replaced? The oil filter is critical for maintaining engine health by trapping contaminants. Factors influencing filter replacement include mileage (with a general recommendation every 5,000 miles), driving conditions, and oil type, with synthetic oils lasting longer. Regular replacement ensures optimal engine performance and longevity. Burns Kia provides expert service and advice on maintaining your vehicle's oil filter for efficient operation. Is Your Air Conditioning Working Properly? Maintaining your car's air conditioning is essential for comfort and safety. Signs of a malfunctioning AC include the system not turning on or off, air not blowing cold, and unpleasant smells from the vents, indicating issues like low refrigerant, electrical faults, or dirty filters. Regular checks and maintenance can prevent discomfort and more significant problems. To speak with one of our expert service technicians about preparing your car for a busy travel season, visit us in Orangeburg today for an appointment.

A woman taking a bag out of her 2024 Kia Telluride near Orangeburg, South Carolina

What Should You Keep in Your Vehicle’s Emergency Kit?

Unsure how to pack for the unexpected? Let's dive into the essentials you should keep in your car for emergencies. We'll break it down into three main sections: Tools, First Aid, and Food. Each section will include a brief explanation of why it's important to have these items in your car and some examples of what to include. more Tools When you're on the road, having the right tools can make a huge difference if you run into an unexpected service issue. Tools aren't just handy; they're a necessity for dealing with unexpected issues like a flat tire or a dead battery. Think about including things like a multi-tool, jumper cables, a flashlight with extra batteries, and reflective safety gear to keep you visible if you're stranded at night. First Aid A first aid kit is a very useful thing to always have at hand, and it can be easy to forget to prepare one until a need arises. Minor injuries or health issues can sometimes happen without warning. Your kit should have basics like bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and any personal medications that might be necessary in a pinch. A well-prepared first aid kit can help keep you and your passengers safe until you can get more assistance if needed. Food Lastly, keeping some non-perishable snacks and water in your car is a smart move, especially for longer trips or if you get stuck somewhere unexpectedly. Energy bars, nuts, and dried fruits are great because they don't take up much space, and they can give you a much-needed energy boost when you’re tired. And don't forget about water—it's essential for staying hydrated, especially in hot weather or if you're waiting for roadside assistance to arrive. Putting together an emergency kit might seem like a bit of a chore, but it's one of those things you'll be glad to have if you ever need it. Visit us in Orangeburg today for a service appointment to help reduce the chances of unexpected car trouble.

An engine overheating in a parked car near Orangeburg, South Carolina.

Getting an Engine Diagnostic for Your Kia

To keep your Kia running smoothly, having a regular engine diagnostic can help identify and address potential issues before they become major problems. Here are some of the key areas that may be checked when you take your vehicle into your Kia dealer for a check-up. more Check Engine Light Diagnosis One of the primary reasons for a diagnostic is to address the dreaded "Check Engine" light on your dashboard. A diagnostic scan will retrieve error codes from your car's onboard computer system, providing valuable insights into what may be causing the issue. Whether it's a minor sensor malfunction or a more significant problem, this initial step helps pinpoint the source of the problem. Emission System Evaluation Diagnostics also include an evaluation of your Kia's emission control system. This is essential for ensuring your vehicle complies with environmental regulations. The diagnostic process will check for issues related to the catalytic converter, oxygen sensors, and other components that play a crucial role in reducing harmful emissions. Fuel System Analysis Efficient fuel usage is essential for optimal performance and fuel economy. During a diagnostic, the fuel system is thoroughly examined. This includes inspecting fuel injectors, the fuel pump, and the fuel pressure regulator. Any issues in this area can result in poor mileage and performance problems. Ignition System Inspection A properly functioning ignition system is crucial for starting your Kia and maintaining smooth operation. Diagnostics will check the ignition coils, spark plugs, and spark plug wires. Identifying issues in this area can prevent misfires and ensure your engine runs smoothly. Sensor Functionality Assessment Modern Kias are equipped with various sensors that monitor different aspects of your vehicle's performance. These sensors include those for the temperature, throttle position, and air intake. During a diagnostic, technicians will check the functionality of these sensors to ensure they are providing accurate data to the engine control module. Exhaust System Examination The exhaust system plays a vital role in removing harmful gases from your Kia's engine. Engine diagnostics include a thorough examination of the exhaust system, including the exhaust manifold, muffler, and the entire exhaust pipe. Detecting any leaks or damage in this system is crucial for both performance and environmental reasons. Transmission Health Assessment While not directly related to the engine, a comprehensive diagnostic may also include a quick assessment of your Kia's transmission. This is because transmission issues can sometimes manifest as engine problems. Checking for transmission fluid leaks or irregularities can help prevent costly repairs down the road. If you notice any warning lights on your Kia's dashboard or suspect that something might be amiss with your vehicle's performance, contact Burns Motors Kia for a professional diagnostic. Our experienced technicians here in Orangeburg, SC, use state-of-the-art equipment to diagnose and address any issues, keeping your Kia in top-notch condition and ensuring your peace of mind on the road.

A person working with their local auto service tech to buy parts near ORangeburg, South Carolina.

5 Benefits of Getting OEM Parts for Your Kia

As a Kia owner, you should only use genuine OEM components available at your local Kia dealer for all vehicle repairs. OEM parts are engineered by Kia for your make and model, unlike aftermarket parts that are made by third-party manufacturers. Here is why buying OEM Kia parts is the smart choice for your vehicle. more 1. The Perfect Fit for Your Kia OEM components are an exact match for your Kia. They provide a seamless fit, function, and integration with your vehicle's systems. Since they are made using the same high-precision specifications as your original components, you can trust that they will align perfectly and perform optimally. This is unlike aftermarket parts, which often have integration issues and can prevent your Kia from running smoothly. 2. Promote Overall Automotive Health Factory parts keep all aspects of your vehicle running optimally. They support engine performance and uphold your Kia's reliability and safety standards. This leads to improved fuel economy and an enhanced driving experience. Generic parts may have inferior components that compromise the vehicle's performance or cause premature wear and tear on key components. 3. Enjoy Hassle-Free Ordering Buying OEM Kia parts through your trusted dealer makes the process smoother. Dealers keep an extensive inventory of parts in stock, ensuring fast ordering and installation. If you need a part that isn't available at the dealership, your dealer can order it from Kia and install it for you. Choosing your part is quick and easy, which isn't always the case when shopping for generic parts. 4. Preserve Your Kia's Warranty Generic parts can cause your vehicle's components to malfunction or wear out prematurely. The damage resulting from the use of unauthorized parts can invalidate your factory warranty and cost you money. Using original factory parts guarantees that your warranty will remain intact for years down the road. OEM Kia parts even come with a one-year warranty for further protection. 5. Save Money in the Long Run Although factory parts cost more upfront than generic ones, they save you money over the vehicle's lifetime. OEM components are built to last and made using high-grade materials, so they don't wear out fast. If you plan to sell your Kia in the future, using factory parts enables you to preserve the vehicle's value. As a result, you will make more money from the sale. Generic parts may be cheaper, but they tend to wear out faster and need repairs and replacement sooner than factory parts. This ends up costing you more money and hassle over time. Aftermarket parts diminish a vehicle's value over time, so if you sell the Kia, you will make less money. OEM components will keep your Kia running smoothly and safely. Since the parts are available at the local dealership, you can fix your vehicle and get it back on the road immediately. Contact Burns Kia to order genuine factory parts for your vehicle.

A person servicing a car's transmission near Orangeburg, South Carolina

3 Benefits of Getting Routine Transmission Service for Your Kia

The transmission is the second most complex part of your car after the engine. Its purpose is to convert your engine's raw power into energy to move your wheels. This conversion process is managed by a series of gears of descending sizes that ensure your wheels receive enough power to move at the required speed. As your Kia deale r, we'd like you to know some benefits of getting a routine transmission service with us. more Prevent Overheating Transmission fluid performs several vital tasks in your transmission. One of these tasks is to cool the hot component. A transmission contains hundreds of fast-moving parts, many of which depend on friction to work effectively. Transmission fluid provides a friction-resistant coating around these components that reduces the chance of damage. Older transmission fluid loses its ability to cool the components. It will become thicker and more sluggish, reducing its abilities even further. The thicker transmission fluid can also block the transmission filter, which increases the heat in the transmission even further. During a service, we drain the old transmission fluid and replace it with fresh fluid. We also replace the old transmission filter. Prevent Damage As we've seen, the transmission contains numerous working parts. These parts have a life like all components. As they age, they gradually become worn out and damaged. Damage parts can lead to further wear and tear to other parts of your transmission. In addition, certain components must be replaced regularly. During a service, we examine all the components in your transmission. This examination will highlight any potential issues before they can affect the transmission. We'll inform you of any issues we find, and we can repair or replace the damaged parts for you. This protects you against future damage and reduces your repair costs. Work Efficiently The transmission and the engine have a symbiotic relationship. If the transmission develops a problem, this will automatically impact the engine. Your engine will have to work harder to try and overcome a transmission issue. The engine's additional efforts will increase wear and possible damage to your engine. When your transmission has been serviced, the engine and transmission will work smoothly and efficiently together. New transmission fluid provides the right amount of hydraulic pressure for your gears to shift smoothly and ​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​easily. The removal and replacement of any damaged parts will make your transmission work more effectively. Transmission problems can rapidly escalate if they're not identified and repaired. Don't risk damage or a failing transmission, call our service department today at Burns Motors Kia. Once our Kia-trained technicians have serviced your transmission, you can drive with confidence knowing your transmission is in perfect shape.

A photo of a tire storeroom taken near Orangeburg, South Carolina.

Does Your Kia Need New Tires?

It's crucial to have sufficient tread on your tires to ensure proper handling and control of your Kia. Below, your Kia dealer helps you to determine when your Soul, Sportage, or Sorento needs new tires. more Check the Tire Tread Depth If you look closely at your tires and notice that the tread appears worn, check the tread depth. There are a couple of ways you can do this. One way is to use a gauge to measure the tread depth. If it's lower than 2/32 inches, you need to replace your vehicle's tires. Another way is to insert a penny into the grooves between the treads with Lincoln's head pointed down. If you can't see his head, your tread is still good. However, the tread is too shallow if you can see his head. You Can See the Wear Indicator Bars The flat rubber bars that run perpendicular to the direction of the tread are called wear indicator bars. When tires are new, you can barely see the bars, and as you drive and your tires wear down, the bars become more visible. If you can see the bars, your tires are worn and need replacing. The Tires Are Worn Unevenly Different parts of a tire can wear at different rates. Various factors, including improper inflation and misalignment, can cause uneven wear. To avoid this, ensure your tires are always inflated to the proper pressure levels and regularly rotated to prevent uneven tread wear. A Tire Is Damaged Inspect the sidewalls of your tires regularly for cuts or cracks that could cause leaks or, even worse, a blowout. It's crucial not to ignore any damage to the sidewalls of your tires. If the outer surface weakens, it can cause bulges, leading to a blowout. Your Tires Are Old Keep an eye on the age of your tires, even if the tread still looks good and there isn't any visible damage. The combination of extreme temperatures, exposure to sunlight, and road conditions can cause structural changes that can impact the overall safety of your tires. Tire manufacturers suggest replacing tires anywhere between six to ten years. Be sure to check your specific tire brand for more detailed replacement specifications. Install Quality Tires When it's time to replace your car's tires, rely on us for a wide selection of quality brand tires at prices that won't break the bank. We'll even refund you the difference if you find a better price elsewhere within 30 days. Plus, we include a 24-month road hazard coverage on eligible tires, and if you get a flat, we will cover you for up to $20. Tires are expensive, and to help you, we offer financing options through Sunbit with convenient monthly payments. Our helpful tire specialists will assist you in finding the correct quality tires for your model, and our Kia technicians will handle the installation with expert precision. When you've got a good set of tires on your car, your Kia will handle better, and you'll be safer on the road. Stop at Burns Kia today for exceptional customer care, quality tires, and an expert tire installation.

People driving in a car with advanced safety features near Orangeburg, South Carolina.

5 Innovative Safety Features on Today's Kia Vehicles

Whether you're parking, reversing, cruising on the highway, or navigating busy city traffic, your Kia has state-of-the-art car safety features helping you avoid accidents. Here are five of the best safety and driver assist features you'll find in a modern Kia. If you'd like to see more, ask for a demo at your nearest Kia dealership. more Auto Emergency Braking Not only does your Kia monitor the road head and help you avoid potential collisions with automatic braking, but it can even detect hazards when you're turning left. The system uses forward-facing cameras or radar to detect cars, motorcyclists, cyclists, and even pedestrians wandering across your path. If a hazard is detected, first, you're provided a clear warning signal. And if you're slow to respond, your car brakes for you to avoid a collision, or at least reduce its severity. Blind Spot Collision Avoidance During rush hour, both crowded urban streets and highways can become rather hectic. These busy moments are when drivers are most at risk of changing lanes without noticing a vehicle in their blind spot. Your Kia continually monitors your blind spots on either side. If there's ever something in your blind spot when you intend to change lanes, it warns you clearly and can even help you return safely to the center of your lane. Smart Cruise Control The dangers of driver fatigue are reduced in a modern Kia by Smart Cruise Control, which can take over essential driving functions for you, allowing you to relax and watch the road. By controlling the steering, braking, and acceleration, your car maintains a predetermined distance from the vehicle ahead. It can even come to a complete stop in heavy traffic and start up again within three seconds of stopping. Smart Remote Park Assist If you get a little nervous when it comes to tight parking spots, your Kia can handle it for you. You can sit inside or stand outside your car and tell it to park itself using a command on your key fob. Your car will carefully and accurately control steering, braking, and gas to safely park without any mishap. Safe Exit Warning When you park on the roadside, there's always a hazard when anyone opens the car door into the road. With Safe Exist Warning, your Kia will audibly warn you if either you or a passenger behind you attempts to open the door when another vehicle is approaching. On certain models, you can even have the rear doors remain locked until it's safe to exit. See More at Your Nearest Kia Dealer There are many more sophisticated technological safety and driver assist features in modern Kias. To see them in action, you can always request a test drive of your favorite Kia model at your local dealership. Visit Burns Motors Kia today to learn all about the latest in Kia technology.

Four ignition coils lined up at a service center near Orangeburg, South Carolina

3 Signs of a Faulty Ignition Coil

Each spark plug has an ignition coil connected to it. A spark plug only produces 12 volts, and its connected coil boosts this power to 60,000 volts to ensure combustion in the cylinder. Coils can become worn out or damaged and will need replacement. As your Kia dealer, we want to tell you about signs of a faulty ignition coil. more Check Engine Light A problem with the ignition coil will cause a variety of additional problems for your engine. These problems include misfiring, sluggish acceleration, and increased fuel usage. Modern engines contain numerous sensors, and these sensors monitor engine components to ensure they're working efficiently. The sensors continuously update your car's computer with information. Sensors are capable of detecting even minute variances in the performance of the component they're attached to. Any problem caused by a failing coil will be noticed immediately. Your computer will log the problem with an error code and will illuminate the check engine light. Our technicians will examine the coils, and we can quickly replace any damaged ones. Decreased Mileage Every driver has at least a rough idea of how much fuel they generally use. If you suddenly find you have to make more frequent trips to the pump than you previously did, you could have one or more damaged coils. If a coil is damaged and doesn't generate enough power to boost its attached spark plug, combustion in its cylinder will become less efficient. A lack of power for the spark plug means that a large portion of the fuel in a cylinder won't burn. The unburned fuel is dumped into the catalytic converter after combustion, and it's converted with other dangerous gases into less harmful ones. The newly-converted and harmless gases are then expelled from the exhaust pipe. The extra fuel lost due to a damaged coil will quickly cause an increase in fuel consumption. Rough Idling When your car is idling, the combustion process continues, but at a slower rate. The spark plugs still require a boost from the coils for combustion. A damaged coil can sometimes be easier to identify at a lower and slower rate of combustion. You might experience strange sounds from your engine, or the engine might feel rough. If your car seems to be idling roughly, call our service department right away. Worn coils aren't the only reason for rough idling, but they're the most common one. Our technicians will examine your engine, and we can quickly replace any damaged coils if they're causing the problem. Damaged coils can result in damage to other engine components if they're not repaired. Call us today at Burns Motors Kia.

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