Brake pads typically wear gradually, so for some it may be difficult to readily notice a decline in performance. Below are some common signs you should look out for, as they can signal that your brake system needs repair/replacement.
Click the link to the right to watch an informative video on common sources of excessive wear to your brakes and what you can do to prevent your braking system from wearing down too much.
High-pitched squeal:
Many brake pads have a "wear indicator" that emits an audible warning when it's time for replacement.
Grinding noise:
Metal-on-metal noise can be caused by the backing plate grinding against rotors, due to worn brake pads.
Brake Pad Thickness:
Generally, if pads are less than 2-3mm thick, they likely need to be replaced. And if less than 4-5mm, they are nearing replacement.
Pulling:
If your car feels like it 'pulls' to one side when braking, this can be caused by brake pads wearing unevenly, dirty brake fluid, a collapsed brake hose, or a stuck caliper.
Vibration / Pulsation:
If your brake pedal feels like it's vibrating or pulsing when braking, this can be caused by unevenly worn rotors.
Pedal Responsiveness:
If your brake pedal is not as responsive as it once was, or it feels soft/mushy, this may signal a problem in the brake fluid system.
Kia Store Anniston - Oxford understands there is nothing more important than your safety.
For peace of mind, visit our dealership for a brake inspection by our factory-trained Kia technicians.
What Should You Expect from Your Battery?
Most batteries go for thousands of miles without service. However, everyday driving conditions - such as climate and driving habits - can affect the life of your battery. If you still have your original battery or feel a sluggish start from time to time, it may be a good idea to come in for battery inspection and testing.
Factors that can shorten your battery's life are:
Severe Temperatures:
Your battery should be inspected every six months, and in areas of high heat/cold, this becomes even more imperative.
Lights are left on:
Even if your vehicle starts, the battery may have lost a lot of its reserve power.
Corrosion or Leakage:
This is likely a sign that your battery is not operating at 100%.
When it's time for a new battery, choose a Genuine Kia Battery.
Our batteries meet rigorous specifications for quality, long life and dependability. Here are some features you can expect with every Kia Genuine Battery:
Genuine Kia batteries meet or exceed Kia's reserve capacity specifications and cold cranking amps specifications.
Positive grid cover can help prevent corrosion.
Special electrolyte additive improves battery charging effectiveness, especially following severe discharge.
All Kia dealerships nationwide can service these batteries, which is especially helpful when you're traveling.
When Will You Know It's Time for New Tires?
All tires eventually need to be replaced. We'll let you know when you need new ones. If you're thinking of going to a big box store for your tire needs, you may want to think again. At Kia Store Anniston - Oxford our Kia experts help make your tire replacement easy, convenient, cost-effective, and specific to your needs.
Our factory-trained technicians will first check your tire tread depth and pressure. If it's determined that you need replacement tires, our experts will help find the set that is right for your Kia. Here are some reasons to buy tires from us:
We will have the right tires for your Kia
Our tire prices are competitive
Your tires will be expertly installed by factory-trained technicians
We stock high quality, name brand tires including: Hankook, Kumho, Goodyear, Nexen, Michelin, Dunlop, Yokohama, and more
All eligible tires come with 24-month road hazard coverage
Our dealership is a convenient one-stop shop for all of your vehicle's needs
New tires also help you stop sooner on wet roads!
A professional driver took nearly 10 car lengths longer to stop on worn tires than he did on new tires. While your stopping distance may vary, newer tires can help you stop sooner.
When Will You Know It's Time for New Wipers?
You'll know it's time to replace your wiper blades when you see these signs of wear:
Cracked, split, torn, brittle, worn
Chatter, streak, or fail to wipe cleanly
Wiper blades tend to wear evenly, so even if only one blade appears worn, the other isn't far behind. You should replace both wiper blades at the same time.
One of the best ways to extend the life of your current set of wheels is by keeping up with its preventative maintenance and service schedule. At Kia Store Anniston – Oxford, we’re dedicated to providing you with the high-quality automotive care you deserve, so you can safely navigate Anniston, Riverside, and Oxford, AL, for years to come.
On this page, you will find more information about some of the key types of preventative maintenance for your Kia. As you read ahead, don’t hesitate to contact us with any questions or to schedule your next service appointment with us today!
Kia Preventative & Recommended Maintenance
Every model has its own specific recommended maintenance schedule that outlines important time and mileage intervals for when to schedule service. A few of the most important preventative maintenance services include:
Oil/filter changes
Tire rotations
Wheel alignments
Battery tests
Spark plug replacements
By following the guidelines found in your owner’s manual, you can keep the components of your Kia working properly for miles to come and mitigate the need for in-depth repairs.
Oil & Filter Changes
Over time, engine oil gets dirty from an accumulation of sludge and debris that it works to keep out of the engine. Getting an oil and an oil filter change keeps your engine from overheating and helps all the components work together smoothly.
Tire Rotations
About every six months, or between every 6,000 and 8,000 miles, it’s important to rotate your tires. This ensures even wear, resulting in maximum traction and longevity. When you bring your Kia in for a tire rotation, our expert service technicians will remove, switch out, and then remount each tire.
Wheel Alignments
Similarly, about every six months or around every 6,000 miles, you’ll want to have your wheels balanced and aligned. Doing so maintains an even weight distribution for a smooth, efficient ride. The service technician will make any necessary adjustments to ensure each wheel sits perpendicular to the road and parallel to the other wheels.
Battery Tests
Testing and cleaning your battery every three to five years is a great way to ensure you’ll always have power. A battery test is a quick and simple service that makes a huge difference when it comes to going about your daily routine.
Spark Plug Replacements
The spark plugs in your Kia hep it to start. They endure high temperatures and often encounter different contaminants that enter from the outside. Over time, this leads to wear and tear, until they ultimately need to be replaced. In general, many maintenance schedules will recommend replacing your spark plugs around every 30,000 miles.
Kia Preventative Maintenance & Service Specials
At our Kia service center, we want to make it easy on you to keep up with your recommended maintenance schedule. That’s why we offer rotating Kia maintenance and service specials. So, be sure to check back often to view our current deals and continue moving forward safely!
Bring Your Kia in for Preventative Maintenance Today
All of us at Kia Store Anniston – Oxford look forward to helping you throughout your automotive journey, starting with preventative maintenance. Contact us today to schedule your next Kia service appointment near Anniston, Riverside, and Oxford, Alabama!