Transitioning from the sun-drenched drives of summer to the frosty, snow-covered roads of winter, our beloved Kias are exposed to a wide spectrum of weather and driving conditions. For Kia owners, navigating this change effectively means more than just a smooth ride—it’s about longevity, performance, and safety. This comprehensive guide aims to equip Kia owners with the knowledge to keep their vehicles in top shape year-round. Whether you’re a car enthusiast who enjoys the occasional seasonal adventure or a driver who depends on your Kia daily, seasonal car care is an essential ritual. Here’s how you can ensure your Kia is ready for whatever the seasons throw at it.
Understanding the Seasonal Shifts: A Maintenance Schedule That Tracks the Elements
Each season brings its own set of challenges for your vehicle, and preparing your Kia for the seasonal shifts is key to maintaining its value and performance. Here’s a breakdown of the essential tasks and considerations for each season.
Spring Maintenance for Kia Owners
1. Clean and Check Your Kia’s Engine
Spring often sneaks up with its promise of warmth and renewal, but it can also bring corrosive road salts from thawing snow and occasional heavy rain. Start by giving your Kia’s engine a good clean. This will remove the grime accumulated from winter’s roads, which can cause wear and tear.
2. Review Your Fluid Levels
Winter’s chill can cause fluid levels to decrease. Now is the time to check and top up your engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, and window washer fluid. Proper levels ensure optimal performance and prevent overheating or dangerous road visibility.
3. Inspect Your Kia’s Tires
After sliding through ice and snow, your Kia’s tires could use a good once-over. Spring is the season for potholes, so check for signs of damage or uneven wear. Ensure your tire pressure matches the recommended levels in your vehicle’s manual.
Summer Care for Keeping Cool
1. Conditioning the Air
Don’t wait until a heatwave strikes to test your Kia’s air conditioning. Run it at least once a week to make sure it’s working efficiently. If you notice any issues, have it serviced by a professional to avoid sweltering in your seat come summer.
2. Battery Top-Up and Check
Hot weather can be just as hard on your battery as the cold. Have a professional test and service your battery if necessary. This simple task can prevent the frustration of a car that won’t start on a scorching day.
3. H2O and High Temperature
Excessive heat can lead to overheating in your Kia’s engine. Check the cooling system and make sure the coolant levels are sufficient. Be proactive – if you haven’t replaced the coolant in several years, consider a flush and refill to maintain its proper state.
Fall Focus on Preparedness
1. Get Your Kia Ready for Wet Weather
Leaves and rain can make for slippery roads. Ensure your tires are in good condition, with enough tread depth to maintain traction, and that your brakes are responsive.
2. Clean and Store Summer Wares
If you have any summer accessories, such as a sunshade or those beach essentials you keep in the trunk, give them a good clean before storing them away. You’ll thank yourself next year when they’re ready to go.
3. Prepare for Shorter Days
Check that all your lights are functioning properly, including the headlights, taillights, brake lights, and turn signals. Visibility is key in darker conditions, especially in the changing fall weather.
Winter Warm-Up Tactics
1. Switch to Winter Tires
When temperatures consistently drop below 45°F (7.2°C), it’s time to switch to winter tires. The superior grip and traction on icy roads can make a life-saving difference.
2. Battling the Cold with a Strong Battery
Cold weather can wreak havoc on your car’s battery. If your battery is over three years old, have it tested, even if you’re not experiencing any issues. It’s better to be safe than stranded in sub-zero temperatures.
3. Do a Full Check of Kia’s Heating System
Discomfort is the least of your worries if your car’s heater fails during cold months. A comprehensive check of your car’s heating system is a must-do before winter sets in.
The Impact of Neglect: Understanding the Cost of Inattention
Neglecting seasonal maintenance can lead to bigger problems. Increased fuel consumption, decreased performance, and potential safety hazards are not to be taken lightly. More importantly, proactive care can prevent costly repairs.
Fuel Economy and Performance
By neglecting to perform seasonal maintenance, your Kia may experience a drop in fuel economy. Checked and clean air filters, properly inflated tires, and more can lead to a more efficient driving experience.
Safety on the Road
Well-maintained brakes, responsive steering, and correctly aimed headlights can prevent accidents. Always remember that your care can save lives, potentially even your own.
Longevity of the Vehicle
A well-maintained Kia can last for many years. Ensuring your car is well looked after season after season can maintain its value and keep it on the road for a long time.
Seasonal Kia Care as a Vital Ritual
Seasonal car care isn’t just a chore; it’s a ritual that can transform your driving experience. By taking the time to adequately prepare your Kia for each season, you’re investing in its health, performance, and your own safety. Make this practice a regular part of your routine, and you’ll not only maintain your Kia’s warranty but also ensure many more seasons of joyful driving. Remember that for every season, there’s a specific set of maintenance tasks. Don’t overlook the little things, as they often have the biggest impact on the longevity of your Kia. Contact Jim Shorkey Kia in North Huntingdon for any service needs for your Kia!
North Huntingdon, is a vibrant community characterized by its family-friendly atmosphere and diverse population. Its residents value the balance between work and life, often engaging in community activities, outdoor recreation, and local events.
Kia has emerged as a popular brand among both young professionals and growing families. Renowned for its reliability, safety features, and modern design, Kia vehicles align perfectly with the needs and aspirations of the community. For young professionals, the brand offers stylish, fuel-efficient models ideal for commuting and weekend adventures. Meanwhile, growing families appreciate the spacious interiors, advanced safety technologies, and affordability of Kia’s SUVs and minivans, making them a logical choice for those in search of a dependable family vehicle.
Safety Features
Kia’s commitment to safety is evident in its top safety ratings across multiple models, resonating with North Huntingdon families prioritizing the well-being of their loved ones. The brand’s vehicles consistently achieve high scores in crash tests conducted by reputable entities like the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), showcasing their structural integrity and robust safety features. Kia has integrated innovative safety technology such as forward collision-avoidance assist, blind-spot collision warning, and smart cruise control, which work collectively to protect passengers and enhance the driver’s awareness. These advancements not only elevate the driving experience but also provide peace of mind, making Kia models an even more attractive option for safety-conscious buyers.
Fuel Efficiency and Eco-Friendly Models
Kia’s dedication to sustainability and efficiency is evident in its lineup of eco-friendly models, designed to reduce the environmental impact while ensuring that families do not have to compromise on performance. Below are some of the most notable eco-friendly Kia models on the market:
- Kia Niro Plug-In Hybrid: This model combines electric and gas power, offering an impressive EPA-estimated 105 MPGe (miles per gallon equivalent) when running on electric power and 53 MPG when using gasoline.
- Kia Sportage Hybrid: This hybrid model offers a fuel-efficient performance with an estimated 38-42 MPG in the city and 38-44 MPG on the highway.
- Kia Sorento Plug-In Hybrid & Hybrid: The Sorento versions offer a powerful and efficient driving experience. The Plug-In Hybrid version allows for electric-only driving, further enhancing its eco-friendly credentials.
- Kia EV6: This all-electric crossover SUV boasts up to 310 miles of all-electric range, combining eco-friendly performance with a spacious, high-tech interior.
With the increasing importance placed on sustainability and fuel efficiency, Kia has positioned itself as a brand that families in North Huntingdon can rely on for environmentally conscious transportation options.
Affordability and Value
In comparison to other brands, Kia models stand out for their exceptional affordability and value, particularly for the cost-conscious families of North Huntingdon. While offering competitive features such as advanced safety technologies, stylish designs, and efficient fuel consumption, Kia vehicles are priced more attractively than many of their counterparts from other mainstream automotive brands. This pricing strategy ensures that families can access high-quality vehicles without stretching their budgets too thin. For instance, when comparing Kia’s SUVs and minivans to similar models from luxury brands, the difference in pricing is significant, with Kia offering similar or superior features at a fraction of the cost. This makes Kia not just a budget-friendly option, but a smart financial decision for families looking to maximize value without compromising on safety, reliability, or style.
Overall, Kia models are an ideal fit for families looking for a practical, safe, and affordable vehicle without compromising on style or comfort. With its emphasis on safety, affordability, spaciousness, and sustainability, Kia has become a trusted and beloved brand within the community. Whether it’s commuting to work, running errands around town, or embarking on a family road trip, Kia vehicles offer the perfect balance of functionality and enjoyment for families in North Huntingdon. As the community continues to grow and evolve, it’s safe to say that Kia will remain a top choice for many families seeking a dependable and family-friendly vehicle. Stop by Jim Shorkey Kia today to find your next vehicle!
In an era where electric vehicles are rapidly becoming the future of transportation, Kia has stepped up to the plate with its latest masterpiece, the all-new Kia EV9. This electric SUV is poised to make a significant impact on the automotive industry, offering cutting-edge technology, stunning design, and eco-friendly performance. In this blog post, we will delve into the key features and highlights of the Kia EV9, highlighting why it’s a game-changer in the world of electric vehicles.
Design That Turns Heads
One of the first things that will catch your eye about the Kia EV9 is its striking design. Kia has successfully blended elegance with practicality, resulting in an SUV that’s not only visually appealing but also aerodynamically efficient. The sculpted body, sleek lines, and futuristic LED lighting give the EV9 a distinct and premium appearance.
The interior is equally impressive, with a spacious cabin that can comfortably seat five passengers. High-quality materials, customizable ambient lighting, and a user-friendly infotainment system contribute to a luxurious and inviting atmosphere.
Impressive Performance and Range
The Kia EV9 is not just about style; it packs a punch when it comes to performance. Under the hood, you’ll find a powerful electric motor that delivers instant torque, ensuring quick acceleration and a smooth ride. The exact specifications may vary depending on the trim level and options chosen, but the EV9 is expected to offer multiple powertrain choices to suit various driving preferences.
One of the most critical aspects of any electric vehicle is its range, and the Kia EV9 does not disappoint. With a large battery pack and efficient energy management, this SUV can travel long distances on a single charge. While exact numbers may vary, early estimates suggest that the EV9 could offer a range of over 300 miles on a full charge, making it a practical choice for both daily commuting and road trips.
Charging Made Easy
Kia understands that charging infrastructure is a crucial concern for electric vehicle owners, and they’ve taken steps to address this issue with the EV9. This SUV is compatible with various charging systems, including fast-charging capabilities that allow you to recharge the battery quickly, providing peace of mind for those worried about long charging times.
Cutting-Edge Technology
The Kia EV9 is not just an electric SUV; it’s a tech powerhouse on wheels. From advanced driver-assistance systems to an intuitive infotainment system, this vehicle is packed with innovative technology. Some notable features include:
1. Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS): The EV9 offers a range of safety features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking, making every drive safer and more convenient.
2. Augmented Reality Head-Up Display: Kia has incorporated an augmented reality head-up display that provides essential information like navigation directions and speed limits right on your windshield, enhancing the driving experience.
3. Large Infotainment Display: The infotainment system boasts a large touchscreen display with seamless smartphone integration, allowing you to access your favorite apps and stay connected while on the go.
4. Wireless Charging: For added convenience, the Kia EV9 features wireless charging for your smartphone and other compatible devices.
Sustainability and Environmental Impact
In addition to its exceptional performance and technology, the Kia EV9 is a testament to Kia’s commitment to sustainability. By opting for an electric vehicle, you’re contributing to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting a greener future for our planet.
The all-new Kia EV9 is more than just an electric SUV; it’s a symbol of the future of automotive innovation. With its stunning design, impressive performance, advanced technology, and commitment to sustainability, the EV9 is set to revolutionize the electric SUV market. Whether you’re an eco-conscious driver or simply seeking a stylish and high-tech vehicle, the Kia EV9 deserves a spot at the top of your list. Keep an eye out for its release and prepare to be amazed by what this electric marvel has to offer.
There’s nothing better than treating yourself to a bit of dessert after a long afternoon of hard work. Let’s face it, you probably deserve a calorie-loaded treat, and Pittsburgh is going to give it to you. There are dozens of wonderful places to grab a delectable dessert no matter the occasion. Here are a few of our favorite stops for dessert.
Jean-Marc Chatellier’s French Bakery
This French bakery has you covered for the bookends of your day. Breakfast and dessert options are available, and they are so good, it’s definitely worth making a trip to twice in one day. Of course, this also opens up the wonderful possibility of having dessert for breakfast, which is always advisable in our books. Were you one of those kids who promised they would eat dessert for every meal of the day growing up? Well, At Jean-Marc, you can finally start making good on your promises.
If you’re a big fan of expertly crafted French macarons, you might not find a better one in all of Pittsburgh. The shells are carefully baked to perfection. They have everything you would expect from these delicate almond flour confections. They have a flavor to please everyone, but the salted caramel, espresso, lemon, and vanilla bean flavors are particularly popular.
As summer approaches full swing, it’s important to keep a few things in mind. The heat from the sun coupled with the greenhouse effect which occurs in your vehicle can cause all kinds of havoc. There are, however, measures you can take to prevent harm to your car. Here’s a quick guide to keeping your vehicle in tip-top shape all summer long.
Make Sure Your Vehicle is Summer Ready
It doesn’t need to be stated that temperatures your car reaches in the summer are far higher than those achieved in the winter. While this applies to the cabin, it also needs to be considered for the components under the hood. Take steps to make sure your car is mechanically sound before summer’s heat arrives.
Give a quick, but thorough inspection to belts and hoses, paying extra attention to hoses which transport flammable liquid such as gasoline or oil. While you’re under the hood look for any debris that may have gotten trapped in the engine compartment. Do this seasonally to help keep your car in great working order.
Planning an event can be one of the most stressful things you experience in life. There are tight deadlines to plan around from multiple vendors, down payments, and it all needs to be arranged so that you are able to secure a venue for a certain date. Then, those other vendors need to be available as well. This first thing you’ll need to do is select a venue for your next event. The venue is the center of the arrangement, and this guide to the best venues in Pittsburg will help your next event go off without a hitch.
The August Wilson Center
If you’re hosting a large event or get together, the August Wilson Center is hard to beat. From an architectural standpoint, the venue cannot be topped. It features multiple event areas as well as a grand meeting hall with a capacity of 472. The smaller rooms are more customizable.
If you plan on booking the venue, plan on submitting applications at least 45 days in advance. This is the venue’s stated minimum, but the earlier the better. If you have a nonprofit organization, you will be able to access steep discounts in the booking rates, which is an added bonus for those who meet the parameters. Read the rest of this entry »
Exciting Features of the 2020 Kia Sportage
The 2020 Kia Sportage is back and better than ever. It is full of amazing features, inside and out, that the whole family will love. Here are just a few of those features you should know about.
Unforgettable Entrance
The exterior design of the 2020 Kia Sportage offers a fantastic view from every angle. The chrome window surround and a rear spoiler create a sleek look to enhance the modern design. It also features adjustable power mirrors with optional heat and power-adjustable fold-in feature with LED turn signals. The optional smart power liftgate with programmable customization and panoramic sunroof make this a convenient choice in a bold design.
The front-end of your vehicle endures a great deal of abuse when traveling down roadways. Regardless of how carefully you drive, kicked-up pebbles, flying bugs, and road debris create a real risk of damaging your vehicle’s hood and grill. Learn what a car bra is and if it is something you should be using on your car or truck below.
What is a Car Bra?
Also referred to as a bonnet, car bras are removable covers used to protect the hood and grille of your vehicle. They are made from a material that will not damage or scratch your vehicle’s paint job while blocking dings that occasionally happen from small debris along roads as well as bothersome bug splatters. Since car bras are removable, they do not interfere with washing the car or gaining access to the engine if needed.
5 Innovative Features of the Kia Soul 2020
The 2020 Kia Soul is packed full of new and fun features that drivers are going to love. Whether you want a vehicle for yourself or for a new teen driver, the additions that Kia implemented into the Soul are sure to impress. Check out these five innovative features of the Kia Soul 2020.
Entertainment System
The new and improved entertainment system contained in the compact 2020 Kia Soul is what music lover’s dreams are made of. The 7-inch touchscreen display allows you to change music with the quick stroke of a finger. The integration with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto allows you to stay connected easily. The six-speaker audio system will make your favorite songs sound wonderful, regardless of the volume you prefer. Bluetooth wireless technology keeps you connected to friends and family with the simple click of a button.
2018 Trick or Treat times near North Huntingdon, PA
If you are wondering what time to go trick or treating..we can help! We have put together an outline of the trick or treat time in the local Irwin area.
North Huntingdon: Date: October 31st Time: 6pm-8pm
Greensburg: Date: October 31st Time: 6pm-8pm
Trafford: Date: October 31st Time: 6pm-8pm
White Oak: Date: October 31st Time: 6pm-8pm
Wilmerding: Date: October 31st Time: 6pm-7:30pm
Elizabeth: Date: October 31st Time: 6pm-8pm
McKeesport: Date: October 31st Time: 6pm-8pm
Have a Safe and Spooky Halloween!
At Jim Shorkey Kia, we hope you and yours have a wonderful Halloween evening.
For more information about Kia vehicles or to schedule a test drive contact us today!
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Recent Blog Entries
- Seasonal Car Care: Preparing Your Kia for the Changing Seasons
- Why Kia Models are Ideal for North Huntingdon Families
- Introducing the All-New EV9: A Revolution in Electric Mobility
- Indulge Your Sweet Tooth at One of These Best Pittsburgh Places to Have Dessert
- Protect Your Exterior and Interior From the Hot Summer Sun
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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.