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First of all, we bet you're wondering, what Is a Kia K4 Service Loaner? A Kia K4 service loaner is a vehicle that a dealership uses temporarily to provide transportation to customers while their own cars are being serviced. They are part of the dealership's active fleet, which means they are maintained to high standards throughout their time in service. Once they are retired from loaner duty, they become available for purchase often at a compelling value compared to a brand-new model. The 2026 Kia K4 is a sharp, agile sedan with a modern design that stands out in its class. It offers a stylish interior, responsive handling, and a range of tech features that make everyday driving genuinely enjoyable. Picking up a service loaner is a smart way to get into this vehicle without paying the full sticker price of a new car. The Service Loaner Benefits One of the biggest benefits to purchasing a service loaner vehicle is the condition of the vehicle itself. Because these cars are used as courtesy transportation for customers, they are regularly inspected, cleaned, and kept in excellent mechanical shape. Dealership technicians handle any needed maintenance along the way, so the vehicle's history is well-documented and trustworthy. Another key service loaner benefit is the relatively low mileage these vehicles typically have. Since they are used locally and for short-term transportation needs, they often have far fewer miles than a typical used car of the same age. That means you get a nearly new car at a reduced cost. Why the Kia K4 Makes a Great Loaner Purchase The Kia K4 is one of the more exciting sedans in the current Kia lineup. Its bold exterior styling and well-appointed cabin make it feel premium without the premium price tag. The K4 also supports Kia Connect, which gives drivers access to vehicle connectivity features that enhance convenience, security, and comfort daily. Buying a Kia K4 service loaner also means you are getting a vehicle that has been operated and cared for by dealership staff who know Kia products inside and out. Why Choose Auffenberg Kia Auffenberg Kia is a trusted resource for drivers in Shiloh, IL, who are looking for quality vehicles and a straightforward buying experience. When you purchase a Kia K4 service loaner here, you are working with a team that understands the product and can walk you through the vehicle's complete service history with transparency. Kia also backs its vehicles with an industry-leading warranty, and depending on the terms, some of that original coverage may still apply to a service loaner purchase. That added peace of mind makes the decision even easier for buyers who want reliability without sacrificing value. Is a Kia K4 Service Loaner Right for You? If you are in the market for a stylish, well-maintained sedan and want to make the most of your budget, a Kia K4 service loaner deserves a close look. You get a vehicle that has been professionally cared for, carries low mileage, and comes backed by the expertise of a reputable Kia dealership. This is the kind of purchase that checks a lot of boxes quality, value, and confidence all in one package. Come in and see us at Auffenberg Kia to see what Kia K4 service loaner options are currently available and find the one that fits your needs.

There's something about longer days and warm weather that makes the open road feel like an invitation. For Kia drivers, summer is the perfect season to take advantage of everything your vehicle has to offer — from responsive powertrains to cabin technology designed for long-distance comfort. So, if you're planning a weekend getaway or a cross-country adventure, these summer road trip tips for Kia drivers will help you make the most of every mile. more Check Your Kia Before You Leave the Driveway Knowing how to prepare your Kia for a summer road trip starts well before you back out of the garage. Heat can put extra strain on your vehicle's systems, so a quick pre-trip inspection goes a long way. Check your tire pressure, since hot pavement can cause pressure to fluctuate and affect handling. Look over your coolant level to make sure your engine stays at a safe operating temperature during long highway stretches. Don't forget to top off your windshield washer fluid, inspect your wiper blades, and verify that all lights are functioning properly. If your Kia is due for an oil change or a routine service visit, it's worth scheduling that before you hit the road. A well-maintained vehicle is a reliable one, and summer road trips are better with a well-maintained vehicle. Make the Most of Your Kia's Technology One of the best parts of driving a Kia on a long trip is the cabin technology built to keep you connected and comfortable. Many Kia models offer available wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ integration, so your navigation and playlist are always within reach. Kia Connect, available through the Kia Access app, allows you to monitor your vehicle remotely, which is especially helpful when you're making stops along the way. If you're driving one of Kia's hybrid or plug-in hybrid models — like the 2026 Sorento Hybrid or the 2026 Sportage Hybrid — your vehicle's energy management system is already doing some of the heavy lifting for you. Knowing how to prepare your Kia for a summer road trip also means understanding your powertrain's strengths and planning fuel or charging stops accordingly. Pack Smart and Use Your Kia's Space Wisely Kia's lineup of SUVs and crossovers offers generous cargo space, but packing strategically still makes a difference. Heavier items should sit flat on the cargo floor, while frequently needed items — like snacks, sunscreen, or a first-aid kit — should stay within easy reach. Avoid blocking your rear visibility and consider investing in genuine Kia cargo organizers or accessories to keep things tidy throughout the trip. If you're traveling with kids or pets, comfort and entertainment are just as important as the gear you bring. Many Kia models offer available rear USB ports and dual-zone climate control, which makes managing different comfort preferences much easier. These are practical summer road trip tips for Kia drivers that can reduce stress on even the longest drives. Stay Safe and Road-Ready All Summer Long Safety should always be part of how you prepare your Kia for a summer road trip. Many Kia models include available driver assistance features such as forward collision avoidance assist, lane keeping assist, and driver attention warning — all designed to help reduce fatigue and keep you alert on long stretches of highway. Familiarize yourself with the features on your specific trim so you know what's available and how to use them effectively. It's also a good idea to keep an emergency kit in your cargo area. Include items like a phone charger, jumper cables, a flashlight, water, and basic tools. Visit Us Before Your Next Adventure Summer road trip tips for Kia drivers come down to a few simple priorities: prepare your vehicle, use your technology, pack smart, and drive safe. From pre-trip maintenance checks to making the most of your Kia's cabin features, a little planning goes a long way toward a smoother, more enjoyable journey. Knowing how to prepare your Kia for a summer road trip means you can spend less time worrying and more time enjoying the ride. Stop by Auffenberg Kia at 1155 Berg Boulevard, Shiloh, IL 62269 to explore the current Kia lineup and schedule your pre-trip service today.

Please join us in congratulating Auffenberg Kia's Ben Banta - Journeyman Technician - on his 3rd Place Win in the 2026 Kia Skill National Cup - Technician Competition- Central Region - and it was his very first year competing! more Ben recently went to Irvine, California (the US Kia headquarters)  to compete in the 2026 Kia Skill National Cup - Technician Competition - Central Region. While he placed 3rd in the Central region (a huge accomplishment!) it should be noted the 1st and 2nd place winners from the Central region placed in the top five in the US. He is now cheering them on as they head to Korea to compete in the WORLD'S competition. The Technician Competition is a prestigious event where Kia techs compete on four different tasks with Kia techs from around the world. This was Ben's first year being nominated to compete. The instructors from the Kia training centers bugged the cars - the tasks included body networking, troubleshooting an EV, drivability (engine performance), and engine mechanics. The techs had to document everything on their repair order, explain their logic, among things. This was Ben's first-year competing, and he was nervous about the unknown. The day started at 7 am - and it was a full day - the technicians were only allowed 75 minutes per vehicle. Once he was finished - he was confident in two out of the four - the other two; he wasn't quite sure if he had done enough in the time he was allotted. Ben has been with Auffenberg Kia for six years, and he's been a technician for over 20 years. In high school, he took a small engine repair class, and he watched his dad work on cars at home. He looks forward to competing again in two years -  he's setting his sights on making it all the way to Korea for the World Cup!

Spring is the perfect time to give your Kia the care it deserves after enduring the harsh winter months. Whether you're driving a sporty Kia K5 or an eco-friendly Kia Niro Hybrid, seasonal maintenance ensures your vehicle continues to perform at its best. For drivers in Shiloh, Illinois, following these Kia spring maintenance tips can help you prepare your car for the warmer months ahead while ensuring safety and reliability. more Inspect and Replace Wiper Blades They got a workout this winter. One of the simplest yet most important Kia spring maintenance tips is to check your windshield wiper blades. They’ve possibly experienced excessive wear and tear in the cold, making them less effective at clearing rain or debris. Replace them if they leave streaks or make noise during use. This small step can significantly improve visibility during spring showers, ensuring a safer drive. For professional assistance, consider scheduling Kia service in Shiloh, Illinois, at Auffenberg Kia. Their expert technicians can help with wiper blade replacements and other essential maintenance tasks. Check Tire Pressure and Tread Depth Cold winter temperatures can cause tire pressure to drop, which may lead to uneven wear or reduced fuel efficiency. As the weather warms up, it's crucial to check your tire pressure and inflate them to the recommended levels outlined in your Kia owner's manual. Additionally, inspect the tread depth either with the “penny test” or a depth gauge if you’ve got one. It’s probably easier to bring it into the service center to ensure your tires provide adequate traction on wet spring roads. If you're unsure about the condition of your tires, Auffenberg Kia offers comprehensive tire inspections as part of their Kia service. Test Your Battery Winter conditions can take a toll on your car's battery, potentially leaving it weaker as spring arrives. Testing your battery's charge and inspecting for corrosion on the terminals are essential steps to avoid unexpected breakdowns. If your battery shows signs of wear or struggles to hold a charge, it may be time for a replacement. You might also notice your headlights or interior lights dimming, a sure sign your battery needs help. Auffenberg Kia provides expert battery testing and replacement services to keep your vehicle running smoothly. Inspect Brakes and Suspension Spring is an excellent time to ensure your brakes and suspension are in optimal condition. Winter driving often involves navigating icy roads and potholes, which can strain these critical components. Listen for unusual noises when braking or pay attention to any changes in handling that might indicate wear or damage. Schedule a thorough inspection with Auffenberg Kia's service team in Shiloh, Illinois, to address any issues before they become costly repairs. Refresh Fluids and Filters Finally, one of the most vital Kia spring maintenance tips is to check and refresh your vehicle's fluids and filters. This includes engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, and windshield washer fluid. Replacing dirty air filters can also improve engine performance and cabin air quality. At Auffenberg Kia, our certified technicians can perform a comprehensive fluid check and filter replacement as part of their routine Kia service offerings. Spring is the Time for Kia Maintenance Spring is a season of renewal, making it the ideal time to give your Kia the attention it needs to thrive on the road. By following these essential Kia spring maintenance tips, such as inspecting wipers, checking tires, testing the battery, and refreshing fluids, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable driving experience throughout the warmer months. For expert Kia service in Shiloh, IL, visit Auffenberg Kia today. Their skilled team is ready to help you keep your vehicle in peak condition all year long!

As the seasons change, preparing your vehicle for colder months becomes essential. Kia owners in Shiloh, IL, can rely on our trusted Kia service to ensure their vehicles are winter-ready. From addressing routine maintenance needs to following essential Kia winter maintenance tips, local drivers can enjoy a safe and smooth driving experience during the icy months ahead. When it comes to maintaining your Kia, our dealership offers the expertise and care you need to keep your vehicle performing at its best. Winter in Illinois can present unique challenges, but with proper preparation, you’ll be ready to tackle them all. more Why Winter Maintenance is Crucial for Your Kia Winter weather in Shiloh, IL, often means snow, ice, and freezing temperatures, which can take a toll on your Kia. Ensuring your vehicle is properly maintained during this time isn’t just about convenience; it’s about safety. Key areas to focus on for winter maintenance include: - Battery health: Cold weather can drain your battery’s power, so have it tested and replaced if necessary. - Tire condition: Winter roads demand excellent traction, making tire tread depth and pressure checks vital. - Windshield wipers and washer fluid: Clear visibility is a must, so ensure your wipers are in good shape and filled with winter-friendly washer fluid. Following these Kia winter maintenance tips will help you avoid common issues caused by cold weather while ensuring your vehicle performs reliably. Kia Service in Shiloh, IL: What to Expect Auffenberg Kia in Shiloh, IL, provides comprehensive services designed specifically for Kia vehicles. Whether your Sorento, Sportage, or Telluride needs routine maintenance or specialized care, certified technicians are equipped to handle it all. Services offered include: Winter-specific inspections to prepare your Kia for freezing temperatures. Oil changes with the right viscosity for cold weather. Brake system checks to ensure optimal stopping power on icy roads. By choosing Kia service at a certified dealership, you’re ensuring that your vehicle receives OEM-approved parts and expert care tailored to keep your car running smoothly through the winter. Essential Kia Winter Maintenance Tips Proper preparation doesn’t stop after your visit to Auffenberg Kia. Incorporating these Kia winter maintenance tips into your routine will keep your vehicle in top shape all season long: 1. Keep your gas tank at least half full. This prevents condensation from forming inside the fuel tank, which can freeze in cold temperatures. 2. Check your antifreeze levels. Antifreeze is critical to preventing your engine from freezing in sub-zero weather. 3. Inspect your tires regularly. Consider switching to winter tires for improved grip on snowy and icy roads. These simple but effective tips can make all the difference when navigating the winter roads of Shiloh, IL. Trust Auffenberg Kia for Reliable Winter Servicing At Auffenberg Kia, drivers in Shiloh, IL, can find peace of mind knowing their vehicle is in expert hands. Whether you need a winter check-up, tire rotation, or assistance with your battery, our team is here to help you tackle the challenges of winter driving.

Your car battery will gradually wear out as the chemicals inside break down. When this happens, the battery's electricity storage capacity drops. Eventually, it won't retain enough power to start the engine. As your Kia dealership, we want you to know several signs you may need to visit us for a battery replacement. Old Battery A car battery has an average lifespan of three to five years. It can last up to six years, but it can also fail earlier due to a damaged alternator, extreme weather, or other issues. While a battery will show signs it's getting weaker, like slower starting or dim lights, you don't have to wait for these issues to appear. We recommend regular annual battery testing, starting in your battery's third year. Our technicians will connect your battery to our computerized battery tester. This machine subjects the battery to various stress tests to identify potential issues. If your battery passes the test, you have peace of mind that it won't fail unexpectedly. If it fails the test, we can install a replacement while you wait. more Damaged Alternator The alternator is a mini generator that produces electricity for your Kia's systems. Its secondary function is to recharge the battery to ensure it contains a full charge. When the engine starts, the alternator will begin recharging the battery. It charges the battery at full power for ten minutes, then switches to a reduced recharging rate of 10% of battery capacity. The reduced recharging rate is essential to protect the battery and alternator from unnecessary wear and tear. If your alternator is damaged, it may not switch to a reduced charging rate. If this happens, the alternator continues to charge the battery at full power. This can cause the battery's electrolyte to boil, and you'll smell a rotten egg smell. We'll replace the damaged alternator and test the battery, replacing it if necessary. Corroded Battery Terminals If you pop the hood and see a gray, green, or white salt-like substance around the terminals, you need a new battery. This substance is corrosion, and it's formed by hydrogen sulfide gas. Hydrogen sulfide gas forms in your engine when a weak battery releases hydrogen as a byproduct of its chemical breakdown. The hydrogen joins with sulfur molecules to form hydrogen sulfide, a colorless gas that smells like rotten eggs. Hydrogen sulfide is drawn to the battery terminals and forms an acidic salt that will gradually eat through the terminals. We can clean the corruption, but it will return as long as the battery continues to fail. Once we install a new battery, corrosion won't reappear. Don't risk a battery failure. Contact us today at Auffenberg Kia in Shiloh, IL.

Have you been having problems shifting gears recently? That typically means it's time to visit your Kia dealership for transmission service. There are other signs that show up when your vehicle needs a transmission repair, too, and we'll take a look at many of them below. Read on to explore six signs your Kia needs a transmission service from your local Kia dealership. more 1. Your Car Keep Slipping Out of Gear Slipping out of gear is among the most common symptoms of transmission problems. Your transmission simply fails to engage the gears properly, or it may shift between gears while you're driving. When you're slipping gears, you may notice that your engine revs but doesn't speed up. You could also feel like you're struggling to accelerate or decelerate when you want to. 2. Your Car Won't Change Gears Sometimes your car will simply refuse to change gears when your transmission is having problems. Alternatively, you may be able to change gears, but it could be more difficult to do than it used to be. This can be caused by dirt and debris accumulating in your transmission fluid over time, contaminating it. 3. Your Car Is Kicking and Shaking Gear shifts should be smooth, with no real reaction from your car other than the gears actually shifting. However, cars with a faulty transmission might shake, kick, or jolt when the gears change. If you drive a manual transmission vehicle, then the gears might grind while you're shifting if there's a problem with the transmission. 4. Your Transmission Fluid Is Leaking Sometimes things go wrong with the transmission, causing leaks. You could have a puncture in the transmission cooler hose, a damaged transmission pan, or worn seals that are letting the red, sweet-smelling transmission fluid leak out. If you spot a red puddle underneath your car, then you can be pretty sure that you're seeing transmission fluid that's leaking out of it. 5. Your Car Gets Noisy in Neutral Cars aren't supposed to be noisy when they're in neutral. However, if your transmission is in disrepair, then your car might start making noises. Listen out for any noises that your car doesn't usually make while in neutral, as they can be a sign of both major and minor transmission issues. 6. Your Transmission Is Overheating If you smell something burning while you're driving, then get to the dealer as soon as you can. This smell can indicate lots of different problems with various systems in your vehicle. If your transmission is the problem, the smell indicates that your transmission fluid is old and burning up or that your transmission is overheating. If your transmission is telling you it's time for a checkup, then contact Auffenberg Kia in Shiloh, IL as soon as you can. You can get in touch with us at 618-624-2277 or schedule service online.

Whether you have a new or used Kia, maintaining the vehicle is critical to keeping it in good condition, and your Kia service department can keep your automobile in great shape. Check out six important maintenance services offered by your local Kia dealer, some of which you may not get from a local garage. more 1. 24/7 Booking for Appointments People are busier than ever. What with juggling family and work demands, you know you need to schedule maintenance for your Kia, but when you look at the clock, you see our dealership's closed, and it's too late to call for an appointment. However, we offer 24/7 online scheduling, so you can go to our website to find a day and time that work, even if you wait until 2 a.m. to make that appointment. 2. Trained Mechanics Repair Your Vehicle The mechanics here at Auffenberg Kia are trained by Kia America to repair and maintain your particular vehicle. They don't just have general automobile knowledge. They've been trained to work on your Forte, Soul, or Sportage by Kia technicians. This means you get mechanics who are familiar with your vehicle and know how to repair and maintain it. 3. Warranty Repairs with Manufacturer Parts Some customers wonder if the parts the mechanic uses for their cars come from the manufacturer. At our dealership, you know our technicians will use genuine Kia parts or certified aftermarket parts that meet the original specifications for repair. You also know the repairs will comply with the warranty on your new Kia. 4. Recall Information and Software Updates Once in a while, you have to update the software on your home computer, phone, or tablet. The same is true with your car. Today's technologically advanced vechicles need to have their software updated occasionally, and you can have that done at our dealership. Plus, if there are any product recalls, our service department can take care of those, also without voiding your warranty. 5. Kia Service Maintenance Packages Before you drive your car home, you can make sure your vehicle has all services covered via a maintenance package. We offer maintenance packages for a certain number of years, and these are available even after your warranty expires. Packages vary in price depending on the vehicle's model and condition, as well as the length of the contract. 6. Discounts on Services When you schedule your maintenance with our service department online, you can take advantage of our internet deals, which include discounts on services and labor. These do change, so make sure you check our website to claim the coupons for the services you want. Ready to schedule your maintenance appointment? Contact Auffenbeg Kia in Shiloh, IL to get on the schedule. We're glad to answer your questions and address any concerns.

Cars perform better when they're full of OEM parts. These parts last a long time, fit perfectly, and perform better overall. If your car needs new parts, you should always get them through your Kia dealer. When you get these parts at your local dealer, they're guaranteed to be made by the original equipment manufacturer. Learn some other reasons why OEM parts from your Kia dealer are crucial for your Kia’s performance. more They Fit and Work Excellently OEM components are made to fit into your vehicle perfectly. They require no adjustments before they can be placed in. Because the part fits so well, you know your car's performance won't suffer due to an ill-fitting component. Ensuring your new part is compatible with the pre-existing parts in your car is also vital. Because the new OEM component is an exact replica of the old one, it's guaranteed to work seamlessly with the parts already in your car. The new part will work exactly the way the old part did before it failed, so your car will perform as seamlessly as you're used to. They're Very High Quality Parts made by the car's original equipment manufacturer are made using the best quality materials and have to meet very high quality standards. Before these parts can be sold, they need to undergo rigorous quality testing. Every OEM component sold is of the highest quality thanks to all the standards they have to meet. Because they're so high-quality, you know they're going to help your car perform at its best. Parts made with lower-quality materials may begin to break down, causing performance problems with your car. That's why you should avoid aftermarket parts, which don't need to be made using any specific materials and don't have to undergo rigorous manufacturer testing before they're sold. They Require No Adjustments Aftermarket parts often need to be adjusted before they can be put into your car, but that's never the case with OEM components. It's relatively simple for the mechanics at your local dealership to get the parts fitted into your car promptly. This saves time when you bring your car in to have the new part fitted. They're Long-Lasting High-quality parts last longer than lower-quality parts. So, when you get an OEM component, you know it's going to keep your car running well for many years. You don't have the same guarantee when you choose aftermarket parts, as they tend to break down faster and need to be replaced more often than OEM components. Come pay us a visit at Auffenbrg Kia in Shiloh, IL when you need new parts for your car. If you know what part you need, then order it through our website today.

Are you starting to lose confidence in your tires? If you've experienced a sudden loss of traction on a wet patch of the road or noticed your cornering and braking become less exact, it may be time for new tires. Any of the following warning signs should prompt you to visit your local Kia dealership right away to have your tires examined or replaced. more Diminished Tread Depths After four to six years of use, the treads of most tires will wear too thin for safe use. The minimum legal tread depth in Illinois is 2/32 of an inch. It's generally considered a good idea to replace your tires even before they become this shallow. You can use a tread depth gauge to measure the treads of your tires. You can also use a penny; insert the coin into the tread voids at a central part of the tire with Abe’s head inside the tread. If you can see all of Lincoln's head, the treads are too shallow, and you need a new set of tires. Less Firm Tire Traction When on the road, it's important to feel absolute confidence in your tires at all times. If you sense reduced traction during wet weather, have your tires inspected by a professional without delay. You may need replacements. Excessive Vibrations Worn-out tires will gradually worsen your handling and generate more road noise and vibrations. If your car seems excessively noisy and shaky, ask a trusted technician to examine your tires. Unevenly Worn Tires If you routinely have your tires rotated, they'll last a good deal longer. Regular rotations combat uneven tire wear, keeping all four tires in a similar condition. Neglecting to rotate your tires may cause them to wear down unevenly to an excessive degree, which will cause all kinds of trouble and may mean you need to prematurely replace all four. Cracked, Cut, or Bulging Rubber Serious damage to the rubber of any tire usually makes it no longer safe to use. If a tire's sidewalls have myriad cracks that are spreading and deepening, you'll probably need to get rid of that tire. Similarly, deep cuts or gashes threaten the structural integrity of tire rubber, as do bulges or blisters, which may indicate an internal rupture. Continual Loss of Air Pressure All drivers should check the air pressure of their tires once a month or more, maintaining the pressure at precisely the recommended PSI for their vehicle. If one of your tires is persistently losing air pressure, have it inspected by a technician; it may have a hidden puncture or some other hazardous flaw. Visit Auffenberg Kia in Shiloh, IL, today to have your tires rotated or replaced. We're a trusted local dealership offering top-notch cars, deals, and customer service.

By identifying the signs below, you will detect battery issues early on, giving you ample time to get a new car battery from your Kia dealer before finding yourself stranded on the side of the road. Let’s explore eight signs that your Kia needs a new car battery, so you can head to your local dealer to get the problem fixed quickly. more 1. Illuminated Dashboard Warning Lights Your Kia has an advanced onboard computer that diligently monitors the performance of multiple systems, including your car battery. If there is a battery problem, the battery, check engine, and alternator lights will go on. These warning lights are early indications that your battery is losing strength and should be replaced. 2. Heavy Corrosion Keep an eye out for an excessive blueish buildup on the battery terminals that could indicate your battery may give off acidic fumes or leak battery acid. It's best to ask your Nissan technician to take a look and assess the issue. 3. Foul Odor If you detect a strange smell coming from the front of your vehicle, it could indicate a battery leak. Leaks occur due to an accumulation of corrosion around the battery terminals, which could prevent your Kia from starting. If the corrosion is severe, have your Kia technician replace the battery. 4. Battery Case Damage The case may bloat due to excessive heat buildup within the battery caused by overcharging or prolonged exposure to high temperatures. A bloated battery case is a safety risk and must be replaced promptly. 5. Electrical Problems A weak battery causes electrical issues. If your radio is cutting out, headlights are dimming, or the windshield wipers or power windows are moving slower, it's likely due to a weak battery. 6. Hard Starts If your car starts one day but struggles the next, it could be a battery issue. A weakening battery needs more time to create a charge, causing your engine to take longer to turn over. If your Kia struggles to start, it's time to invest in a new battery. 7. Jump Starts A clear sign that your battery is approaching the end of its life is the frequent need to jump-start your vehicle to get it going. While jump-starting your vehicle may offer a temporary solution, promptly replacing the battery is vital to prevent more breakdowns and damage to the electrical system. 8. Battery Age Car batteries generally last between three and five years. If your battery is over three years old, it's a good idea to have it regularly checked by a technician to ensure trouble-free driving.  Don't wait until you have to rely on a stranger for a jump start or get stuck with a dead battery. When you notice any signs of a bad battery, stop at Auffenberg Kia in Shiloh, IL, for a range of quality batteries and professional installation services.

Your Kia's transmission is the system that works behind the scenes to transfer power from your engine to the wheels, allowing smooth shifting. The transmission requires proper care, but knowing how often to service it can be challenging. Let's talk about the signs that tell you it's time to get transmission service at your Kia dealer. more Rough Shifting and Slipping Gears You are cruising down the road with your foot on the gas, but instead of your Kia accelerating smoothly, you feel harsh kicks or shudders as the transmission changes gears. The vehicle may even slip out of gear entirely, causing a momentary loss of acceleration. This erratic behavior points to low transmission fluid, worn-out clutch components, or a faulty solenoid. Our skilled Kia technicians can resolve this issue with a transmission fluid and filter change. They will also inspect the system and replace worn components to restore smooth shifting. Transmission Fluid Leaks If you notice a leak underneath your car, you should get it checked out immediately. A bright red, dark red, or brown leak could be a sign of a transmission fluid leak. Leaks are often caused by worn seals, gaskets, or other components within the transmission itself. Transmission fluid lubricates moving parts and absorbs and dissipates heat from the system. If the fluid is low, your transmission could overheat, leading to premature component wear. Have the system serviced immediately to prevent costly damage. Sluggish Acceleration Does your Kia feel a bit sluggish or unresponsive when you hit the gas? The culprit could be lurking within your transmission. Poor acceleration occurs due to low fluid levels, worn clutch components, or a faulty torque converter. Your vehicle feels sluggish because the transmission is not able to transfer the engine's power to the wheels efficiently. Sweet, Burning Odor in the Cabin Transmission fluid produces a sweet smell when it burns. If you notice this smell in your cabin, your transmission may be overheating due to low fluid levels or even a leak. You may even get a "check engine" light because a faulty transmission forces the engine to work harder to deliver the needed power. This can cause engine inefficiency and overheating, so it's best to address it immediately. Schedule Routine Transmission Inspections at Your Kia Dealer You don't have to wait for your transmission to fail to get it serviced. Although you don't have to change the fluid as often as you get an oil service, it's a good idea to schedule routine inspections. Our technicians will inspect your Kia's transmission for worn components, fluid leaks, and other faults that could hinder performance. Fixing these issues early keeps your Kia running smoothly and prevents costly damage. If you take good care of your Kia's transmission, it will reward you with smooth gear shifts and responsive performance for years. Contact Auffenberg Kia in Shiloh, IL to schedule a service.