Forget Something? Quick Checklist for the Savvy 'Roadtripper'

Road trip season is here again!  There’s no doubt about it: one of the best parts of summer is hitting the road on an adventure.  But before you start your car and set out for unfamiliar horizons, make sure you have these things checked off your to-do list.

1. Top off coolant.  Seems pretty obvious, but many forget this one!  Make sure you stay cool out on the road and remember to be proactive about air conditioning care to prevent future problems.
2. Refill windshield washer fluid.  You’re bound to gather a few hitchhikers like bugs and dust on your journey.  Make sure your windshield wiper fluid is topped off so you can deal with these obstructions on-the-go.
3. Inspect your belts. As your car ages, belts become dry and brittle. This is made worse by heat and the last thing you want is to deal with a broken belt in the middle of your trip.
4. Check your tires. This is a good idea to do regardless of season, definitely not just a summer must. The easiest at-home method for this is performing the penny test.
5. Get your brakes checked out. Bring your car into our service department and let us take one final look before you head out! Even though you hope this summer never stops, you want your car to, eventually.

Mind Your Manners While Driving

Have you ever allowed another driver to merge onto the freeway?  You’re a decent and kind person–of course you have.  Do you ever find yourself getting unreasonably worked up if they don’t offer that universal two-second wave as a thank you?
There are certain unspoken rules of etiquette out on the road, and the courtesy wave is one of them.  Here’s a list of the top five rules of driving etiquette we wish were required.

Turn your brights off when you see oncoming traffic.  Blinding other drivers isn’t just rude, it’s dangerous.
Stop honking during traffic jams–especially at lights.  We promise it won’t make your commute any shorter.
Keep your volume at a reasonable level.  Hey, if you want to advertise your love for Nickelback, buy a T-shirt.
Allow other cars to merge.  The freeway is not a racetrack, and if we can promise you a courtesy wave– this should be set in stone.
Stop edging into crosswalks while pedestrians are crossing.  You’ve got important places to go and all those people are in your way.  But alas, you must remember that as long as they are on foot, they always have the right-of-way.  Always.

In the Mind of a New Car Owner

Buying a new car is an exciting accomplishment! You think about great gas mileage, superior technology, and a smoother, better looking ride. It’s what comes next that you don’t expect. Have you ever experienced any of these thoughts after buying a new car?

1. “Uh oh, all of these cars look really dangerous and everyone here is probably a bad driver… I better park my car really far away from everyone.” Next thing you know, you’re walking really far through the parking lot to get inside the mall or grocery store.

2. “Hmm, we are going to be out of toilet paper two days from now… better head to the store to get some right now.” Suddenly, the most mundane errands don’t seem so bad anymore with your new car!

3. You used to never volunteer to drive places, but now you can’t wait to show off your car to your friends and family!

Things You Know About Cars if You Have Seen ‘It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia’

• Cereal is the worst thing to eat in the car.
• Even though your friends are a great bunch of people, you will probably regret it if you let them borrow your car.
• Getting in a car accident with someone could lead to romance.
• If you throw something out of the front window of your car, it will probably get stuck to the side of your car or fly in again through your back window.
• Never…ever…start a camp fire in a moving truck.

You Know Your Kia Deserves Some Love...

$ = super cheap and easy.

$$ = it's a bit, but won't break the bank.

$$$ = a special treat.

1. A new air freshener: an inexpensive, fun, and aromatic olfactory treat. $

2. Automatic car wash. Varies in price based on what options you choose. Definitely make it a weekly thing. $-$$

3. Tire rotation and oil change. It's important so don't miss or skimp. $$

4. Detailing: it will cost you a pretty penny or take a lot of Q-tips. Best way to give your car a total refresh. $$$

5. Fuel-injection cleaner: it's like a detox for your cars fuel system. $$

6. Arctic Blast: a summer must have if you want a crisp car in the summer. A little pricy, but very cool. $$$

How do you care for your car? Feel free to add to the list.

What Does Your Car Color Say About You?

Colors allow us to express ourselves, assert ourselves, and adorn ourselves. Color makes a statement. What does the color of your Kia say about you and how other people see you?

• Black: sophisticated, mysterious, and deep.
• Beige: calm, pleasant, and harmonious.
• Red: fun, ambitious, and independent.
• Yellow: joyful, optimistic, and imaginative.
• Blue: loyal, truthful, and confident.
• Orange: energetic, enthusiastic, and vibrant.
• Green: conscientious, lucky, and full of potential.
• Brown: stable, enduring, and reliable.
• Gray: intelligent, modest, and practical.
• White: successful, understanding, and noble.

Getting Your Tires in Shape for Summer

As the calendar turns to the summer season, many of us will be hitting the road for vacation. But before you head out, make sure your car is in great driving condition.

With the temps starting to rise,don’t forget to check your tires. Tire pressure changes approximately one to two PSI for every 10-degree increase in outside air temperature.

If your car needs a little more attention and repairs, be sure to schedule a service appointment with our awesome service department!