Taking a summer road trip is a great way to make memories with family and friends. Hitting the open highway with the windows down and radio on — is there anything quite as sweet? If you’re planning to travel in your Kia this summer, we want to help you prepare your vehicle for your trip. It’s crucial to have a road-worthy ride so that breakdowns don’t interrupt your summer fun. Keep reading to learn about ways you can prepare your car for travel this season, then schedule an appointment at our Kia service center and our expert technicians will handle the rest!
Top Five Summer Car Care Tips
Schedule a Comprehensive Inspection
Scheduling an inspection at our Kia service department is a great way to ensure your vehicle is running smoothly. If there are any issues you weren’t aware of, an inspection will bring them to light before they cause trouble down the road. At your appointment, one of our service techs will check the key components of your model, like the tires, brakes, fluid levels, suspension, hoses, and belts. It’s a quick way to have peace of mind before you hit the road; in fact, our Kia Express Service includes a multipoint inspection and more in 60 minutes or less! We’re here to get you in and out with no stress.
Check the Tires
Tire maintenance is an ongoing process, so even after your vehicle is inspected, it’s important to keep an eye on your tires throughout the summer. Tires are crucial to safe and efficient travel, so regularly check them for uneven wear, cracks, or bulges. Monitor the tread depth to ensure it isn’t getting low (and if you aren’t sure how to do this, one of our technicians will be happy to show you). Finally, make sure the tires are inflated to the proper PSI as shown in your owner’s manual or on the door jamb sticker. Extreme cold and heat can cause your tire pressure to fluxuate, so this is especially important in the summer. Don’t forget to check on the spare tire, too! If you suspect your tires need repair or it’s time for a brand-new set, visit our Kia Tire Center to get the right tires for your model and driving needs.
Fluid Levels and Oil Change
Is your vehicle due for an oil change soon? If so, it’s wise to get that done before your trip. Fresh oil is essential for proper engine function, and if your vehicle contains dirty, old oil, you could experience vehicle malfunctions on the road. New oil will protect your Kia’s engine from excessive wear as you travel. We recommend checking your model’s other vital fluids as well, such as coolant, brake fluid, windshield washer fluid, and power steering fluid. Our technicians can check and top up all of these fluids and complete your oil change at your appointment.
Test the Battery
Hot weather can put extra strain on your battery, and a dead battery on a scorching summer day is a recipe for disaster. Have your battery tested before your trip to make sure it’s healthy and charged up. This is especially important if you’ve noticed any abnormal behavior from your car, such as hesitation upon starting. If your battery is showing signs of age or seems to be losing charge quickly, it’s probably time to replace it altogether. Has the battery light (or any other light) appeared on your dashboard? Check out our guide to dashboard lights.
Pack Emergency Essentials
It’s a good idea to have an emergency kit in your car in case of unforeseen circumstances. In addition to your well-inflated spare tire, put together a kit with jumper cables, a flashlight with extra batteries, a small knife, bottles of water, first aid supplies, a blanket, emergency contact numbers, and basic tools. If you have roadside assistance, place your membership card in the kit as well. An emergency situation can happen when you least expect it, so give yourself peace of mind by having your kit ready to go.
Kia Service Near Nashville
Summer travel awaits! Take the time to prepare your car and you’ll be ready for a safe and memorable journey. Bring in your vehicle for service at Wyatt Johnson Kia near Nashville, and our team will make sure your car is in top shape. To help you save money, we offer Kia service specials and coupons that are updated monthly. Check out the deals we’re offering now, and then schedule service online. We’ll see you soon!
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Warranties include 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain and 5-year/60,000-mile basic. All warranties and roadside assistance are limited. See retailer for warranty details.