Why is my check engine light on?

• There are various reasons ranging from a simple gas cap to any mechanical sensor. It is okay to continue to drive your car for a day or two before having it checked. If the check engine light is flashing, IMMEDIATELY turn off your car and have it towed to Kia Country or your nearest service station to avoid permanent damage.

How often do I need to change my oil?

• This can vary based on driving habits and climate. Kia Country recommends changing your oil every 5000 miles or six months based on Charleston’s climate.

How long do brakes last?

• This depends solely on driving habits such as how often brake. How long do you keep your foot on the pedal when coming to a stop? City driving and mountains are harder on brakes. Brakes could need to be replaced as early as 40,000 miles or could last for 70,000 miles.

Why do my brakes squeal or squeak?

• This can be caused by morning moisture. Since asbestos was eliminated from brakes, the materials used to manufacture brakes have harder surfaces that sometimes squeak. Some noise is to be expected but if you hear loud squeaking, grinding, or loud noises when you brake, you should have them checked.

What does a cabin filter do?

• It filters outside air coming into the vehicle and helps to prevent or minimize odors.

How often does a cabin filter need to be replaced?

• Under normal conditions, it needs to be replaced about every 15,000 miles. If you drive on a dirt road or park under trees, it may need to be changed more often.

What does an air filter do?

• It filters all of the air coming into the engine, makes your car run more efficiently and provides better gas mileage.

How often should I change my air filter?

• Every 15-20,000 miles is recommended.

How often do belts need to be changed?

• It filters outside air coming into the vehicle and helps to prevent or minimize odors.

How often does a cabin filter need to be replaced?

• The most common belts are alternator, air conditioning and timing but each model is different. Belts usually last about four years or 60,000 miles and will show excessive cracking if they need to be replaced sooner.

How long does a car battery last?

• The normal life of a battery is three years but this can vary due to heat, cold, and manufacturer defects.

How often should I change my antifreeze?

• You should have your antifreeze checked annually and have it changed at 60,000-mile intervals. Over time, coolant becomes acidic and allows rust and corrosion to build up in the radiator. Build up may also clog the system and result in a blown head gasket or another major repair.

How often should I change my radiator hoses?

• Every four years or 60,000 miles; however radiator hoses will show swelling if they need to be changed sooner.

How often should I rotate my tires?

• Kia Country recommends that you have your tires rotated every other oil change to extend their life.

How often should I change my tires?

• This is determined by tread depth and affects braking and safety. You should start shopping for tires in your treads reach 4/32nds tread depth. If your tread depth reaches 3/32nd , your tires definitely need to be replaced.

How often should I change my windshield wipers?

• This can vary between 12 and 18 months depending on climate, ice and the amount of rain. Blades can dry rot and become ineffective over time.

What are the most common warning lights?

• 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.

Why should I have my car serviced at Kia Country?

• Our service technicians are factory trained and certified. Each year they attend several continuing education courses to maintain that certification. We use only Kia factory authorized parts for proper fit and function. We provide a complimentary multi-point inspection every time you visit including checking all fluids, all filters, tire pressure and tread depth, wiper blades and brakes. Our Service Department also maintains knowledge of outstanding recalls and service actions and provides fast, friendly service. But don’t believe us. See our 5-star rating on Dealerrater.com, 100% of our customers have rated our Service Department excellent and say they would recommend us.

Do you service non-Kia vehicles?

• Yes, many of our technicians have experience and training in working on other models. Many of our Kia customers own another type of vehicle and trust us to perform maintenance on all of their cars.

How can I be certain I really need a repair and a service shop is not just trying to sell me products I don’t need?

• Integrity is important to us as demonstrated by our 5-star reputation by exceeding our customer’s expectations and our 100% client retention rate. Whenever possible, your Service Advisor will provide you with written documentation as available from a battery test or check engine light test. If someone recommends work on your car ask why the work is needed, what will happen if the work is not performed and most importantly if the defect is a safety issue.