3 Engine Problems You Should Always Fix at Your Kia Dealer

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.

If you plan to own your new Kia for more than several years, then purchasing extended coverage can offer you extra protection for as long as 150,000 miles. Your Kia extended warranty plan can extend the bumper-to-bumper coverage of your five-year Kia basic new car warranty. Learn more about your extended coverage options before you contact your Kia dealer about available plans. more Whether you own a new or used Kia, your vehicle will come with certain warranties. A new Kia has a 10-year powertrain warranty and a five-year basic warranty, while a CPO Kia comes with a 10-year powertrain warranty from the original in-service date and a 12-month limited warranty. Your vehicle service protection plans from Kia are the Powertrain, Gold, and Platinum plans. Powertrain The extended powertrain warranty covers the most important components of the powertrain, such as the transmission, drive axle, engines, and other lubricated parts under the hood. Even small parts like gaskets and seals are covered under this warranty. Gold The Gold plan builds on the level of coverage offered by the Powertrain plan. In addition to your engine and transmission, this warranty plan adds coverage for components such as your suspension, air conditioning, steering, and brakes. If you have an electric or hybrid Kia, some components of your vehicle may be covered by the Gold plan. Platinum The Platinum plan offers coverage for a wide range of vehicle parts, such as the fuel system, cooling system, and all parts that are covered under the Gold and Powertrain plans. Exclusions Your extended Kia warranty will have exclusions for wear-and-tear parts, such as brake pads, shock absorbers, paint, catalytic converters, airbags, upholstery, tires, and wheels. The vehicle service protection plan will also not cover repairs for damage caused by neglecting the routine vehicle maintenance outlined in your owner's manual. When Should You Buy Extended Coverage From Your Kia Dealer? Ideally, you should purchase a Kia vehicle service protection plan when your factory warranty or CPO warranty expires. Purchasing extended coverage at this plan will ensure your vehicle is protected without any gaps in your coverage dates. If you aren't sure when your factory warranty ends or what the status of your CPO warranty is, you can contact your local dealership. Your dealer will use your VIN to look up your vehicle information and answer all other questions you have about your warranty status and warranty purchase options. Although Kia has an industry-leading powertrain warranty that lasts for 10 years, there may come a time when you want to extend your warranty coverage. Extended coverage can offer the same level of protection as your factory warranty, or cover specific components of your car. Contact Burns Kia in Orangeburg, SC to learn about your warranty options.

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.