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What Sets Crain Kia of Sherwood Apart: Real Customer Reviews

Buying or servicing a car can be stressful, confusing, and time-consuming. At Crain Kia of Sherwood, we understand that, which is why our team works hard to make every visit feel simple, transparent, and genuinely enjoyable. Whether you’re buying your first car, coming in for service, or driving hours to find the right dealership, we’re grateful to every customer who comes through the door and takes the time to share their experience! Real Experiences From Sherwood Kia Customers Here’s what Central Arkansas drivers have had to say about their time with Crain Kia of Sherwood, in their own words: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “This was my first time buying a car, and Crain Kia of Sherwood made the experience unforgettable…Everyone was so friendly and genuinely cared about the comfort of me and my parents. Our salesman was phenomenal! He walked us through every step of the process with patience and care, answered every question clearly, and made sure we felt completely confident… Even after the purchase, he followed up to make sure I was still loving my new car, which meant so much. If you’re looking for a car, make Crain Kia of Sherwood your first stop.” November 2025 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Can’t say enough about the awesome service we received at Crain Kia of Sherwood. Our salesman Matt did us right, and I don’t think I’d buy another car from anyone else. Wonderful customer service from the General Manager. They were there every step of the way to help us walk away with our 2025 Kia Telluride. We can’t thank them enough. Y’all go check them out and let ‘em do you right!” September 2025 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Crain Kia was amazing to work with! After visiting a couple of different dealerships, we traveled 2.5 hours to Sherwood and I wished we had started with them to begin with. I would highly recommend them to anyone looking to purchase a Kia. We will definitely be repeat customers.” April 2025 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “I came in for service and also to have my car checked out… Customer service was absolutely amazing, from the woman who checked me in at the beginning to the mechanic who worked on my car. Everyone was very transparent about the services and how much everything would likely cost. I always dread bringing my car in for service, but they went out of their way to make me feel comfortable.” December 2024 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Lord Blessed is all I can say!! All these years of trying to get a car from Crain Kia has finally happened… in my name! I literally cried when he said, “You’re approved.” All I could do was cry and thank God! No money down, I have average credit and he got me a good trade-in value! Also got a 100,000 mile warranty with gap coverage!” July 2025 How Crain Kia of Sherwood Turns Feedback Into Action From first-time buyers who felt genuinely cared for to long-time customers who trust the service team completely, Crain Kia of Sherwood has built its reputation on professionalism, kindness, and follow-through. Team that cares. Review after review highlights team members who listen, follow up, and treat every guest like family. Transparency and trust. Customers mention how clearly everything is explained, from financing details to service recommendations. No confusion, no pressure. Efficiency that pays off. Whether it’s a same-day approval, quick turnaround on a repair, or a loaner while your vehicle gets serviced, the Sherwood team focuses on saving you time and stress. These are the values that power The Crain Commitment, including a 100-hour exchange policy, a 100,000-mile warranty, and a price-match guarantee, all designed to make sure customers continue to feel confident and cared for, mile after mile. Visit Crain Kia of Sherwood We’re thankful for every customer who shares their story and helps us continue to raise the bar. If you’re looking for a dealership you can trust, visit Crain Kia of Sherwood. Whether it’s a new Kia, a pre-owned mode l, or expert service, our team is here to make sure every experience is one worth recommending.

Crain Kia Part Department in Sherwood, AR

Get Your Parts and Accessories at Crain Kia!

Are you searching for top-quality parts and accessories for your vehicle? You can find exactly what you need at Crain Kia of Sherwood! Shop our selection of genuine Kia parts online or in-store! Your order comes with a 12-month Replacement Parts Limited Warranty. If you need accessories to enhance your car's appearance, we have got you covered. You can even prepare yourself and your crew with roadside assistance and first aid kits. Our team is always ready to help you find the part or accessory that suits your needs or enhances your drive. Vehicle Maintenance Get your car serviced at Crain Kia of Sherwood! We offer a wide range of services to help keep your vehicle running smoothly. Whether you need new brakes, tires, oil filters, cabin air filters, or batteries, we can help! Our staff in the parts department is always ready to help you find the perfect components for your car. Click here to order car parts on our website! Kits Roadside Assistance Kit Prepare for potential troubles with a roadside assistance kit. These kits usually include: Emergency flashlight Glow stick Bungee cord Screwdrivers Zip ties Pliers Glove Jumper cables And other essential tools First Aid It's important to prepare for emergencies, especially on the road. That's why having a First Aid Kit from Crain Kia of Sherwood is a good idea. These kits include tools for cuts, burns, and scrapes so you can handle quick emergencies. It's essential because accidents can happen unexpectedly. With a First Aid Kit, you can stay safe and be ready to handle any situation. Accessories Cargo Covers Cargo covers can hide your belongings from those trying to look inside your vehicle. These tools can also provide shade for items you want to keep out of the sun. After you get done grocery shopping, you can cover your grocery bags with the cargo cover. Bike Attachment If you enjoy biking and want to take your bicycle on your travels, consider getting a bike attachment. This accessory will make it easy to transport your bike wherever you go and save you space. Whether you prefer your bike on the top of your car or hooked up on the tailgate, we'll have what you're looking for. Click here to shop Kia accessories online! If you're looking for parts or accessories to improve your car's style or performance, we can help! Our staff can help you find the right parts or accessories that you need. We offer a wide range of genuine Kia products that you can trust so you can drive with confidence. Shop online or visit us today to give your Kia the upgrade it deserves! Are you shopping for a used vehicle in Central Arkansas? Click here to learn about our Kia Certified Pre-owned inventory!

Service professional changing oil at Crain Kia of Sherwood

Get your Oil Changed at Crain Kia of Sherwood

Taking care of your vehicle with regular maintenance is important to ensure it runs smoothly and lasts for a long time. Regular checkups are necessary and can help identify any potential vehicle issues. Oil changes are one of the simplest and most effective ways to keep your car, truck, or SUV in great shape. However, staying on top of all the necessary checkups can be a hassle. That's why we at Crain Kia of Sherwood are here to assist you! We make vehicle maintenance easy and stress-free. Does your car need an oil change in Central Arkansas? Click here to schedule your appointment! How Frequently? To keep your car running smoothly, it's important to get the oil changed every 3,000 miles. This helps to keep your engine well-lubricated and free of dirt and grime, which can cause damage. Regular oil changes also help your car last longer and maintain its value. So, make sure you don't skip out on this important maintenance task! Oil Types Choosing the right oil for your car is super important for how well your car runs and how often you need to change the oil. Check the manual in your glovebox to find what oil your car needs. If you can't find it, don't worry - reach out to our certified service team, and we'll help you out. Conventional If you're looking for a wallet-friendly option to keep your engine running smoothly, this one's for you. It not only provides ample lubrication but also packs in a bunch of additives to ensure a smooth ride. Synthetic Synthetic oils are better for your engine! They keep it cleaner by preventing dirt buildup, which means less wear and tear on your car. They also protect against high temperatures and work better in cold weather. How to Schedule an Oil Change Now that you know what oil type to use for your car, it's time to schedule an oil change! You can book your appointment online with our scheduling tool. Here's a quick step-by-step guide to help walk you through the process. Click here to schedule your oil change! If this is your first time with us, click the "MAKE · YEAR · MODEL" button below the scheduler. Choose your car's make and year. Enter your car's mileage (or a rough estimate). Select your desired service. You can search for oil changes in the search bar if it does not initially appear. It will ask if you need transportation while your car is in the shop. You can request a shuttle to transport you within a 20-mile radius. If you want to wait at the dealership, we offer amenities including: A child-friendly waiting area Customer Wi-Fi And more! Next, you can request a specific service advisor by selecting their name on the Appointment Calendar. Then, choose a day and time for your visit. Select Review. Enter your contact info and provide any additional information if necessary. Click "Schedule." You're finished! Please feel free to reach out for any additional questions before your appointment. Regular vehicle maintenance is crucial for keeping your car in good condition. You can check your oil levels using your dashboard's engine oil life system or the dipstick under the hood. Schedule your next appointment online or call us at Crain Kia of Sherwood in Sherwood, AR! Click here to learn about the Kia EV9!

Crain Kia of Sherwood in Sherwood, AR Brake Repair

Signs Your Brakes Need Repair

Regularly checking the condition of your brakes is essential to ensure your safety. Your car's braking system comprises various parts, including rotors, brake pads, and more. Identifying the warning signs of worn-out or faulty brakes is crucial, and we at Crain Kia of Sherwood, located in Sherwood, AR, are here to help you recognize these symptoms. Are you shopping for a minivan? Click here to learn about the 2024 Kia Carnival! Brake Pads If you hear a screeching sound when you push the brake pedal, it's a sign that you should take your car in for a check-up. AAA 's website says that a piercing, high-pitched, or grinding sound typically means that your brake pads have worn down and need replacing. Karim Nice explains on the HowStuffWorks blog that this noise is generally caused by the brake pad's wear indicator, which is designed to let you know when it needs replacing. As the pad frays from use, the wear indicator contacts the disk, producing a high-pitched screeching sound. Click here to see what reviewers are saying about the 2024 EV9! Rotors If you're behind the wheel and notice an unusual pulse or vibration in your brake pedal, it may mean that your rotor is warped. On their blog, Autozone suggests that grinding sounds and longer or inconsistent braking distances are signs that you need to replace your rotor. Autozone also states that rotors can last up to 60,000 miles if you mostly drive on the interstate. However, if you drive mainly in the city with stop-and-go traffic, the lifespan of your rotors could be as short as 20,000 miles. If you need to replace your car's rotors, you can schedule an appointment with the skilled service team at Crain Kia of Sherwood. Click here to learn about tire care basics! Brake Pedal Keeping your brakes in good working condition is paramount to ensure your safety. When you press down on the brake pedal, your vehicle should come to a quick stop with a firm press. If you notice that your brake pedal feels soft, spongy, or mushy, it's a warning sign that something is wrong. On Kelley Blue Book 's blog, Chantel Wakefield states that this could indicate several potential issues, including low brake fluid, air in the brake line, or a leaking brake line. To avoid any potential problems and ensure that your brakes are working correctly, it's best to schedule an appointment with our certified service team. Are you shopping for an electric vehicle? Click here to see what reviewers are saying about the EV6! ABS Light If the ABS light on your car's dashboard lights up, it indicates that you should have your brakes checked by a technician. On J.D. Power 's blog, Dustin Hawley says the ABS system monitors your car's wheels to ensure they all turn at the same speed. The system will alert you via the dashboard light if something is amiss. There could be several reasons the light is on, but the most common ones are a malfunctioning ABS module, low brake fluid levels, faulty wheel speed sensors, or the ABS itself being off. Remember, proper brake function is crucial for your safety and others on the road. Therefore, watching for abnormalities or possible issues with your car's braking system is important. If you suspect any problems, book an appointment at Crain Kia of Sherwood for a brake check-up.

Tire Care at Crain Kia Sherwood in Sherwood, AR

Tire Care

As simple as it is, caring for your car's tires can be time-consuming and, frankly, annoying. It's an easily forgettable part of your routine vehicle check, making it all the more important as they are the only part of your vehicle that makes contact with the ground, or at least the only part that should. Ensuring your tires are in their best shape provides a smooth, dependable, and peaceful drive and helps your car's fuel economy and performance. Not sure how to check your tires? Luckily, we at Crain Kia of Sherwood are here to help you get started! Are you shopping around for new tires? Click here to start your order! Tire Pressure A simple but essential factor in maintaining your tires is ensuring they have the proper amount of air. Keeping your tires aired properly helps keep you, your passengers, and others on the road safe by improving handling, braking, and fuel economy. AAA, on their blog, recommends checking your vehicle's tire pressure once a month. You can check your tire's air pressure with a digital or analog gauge. Here's a quick rundown of what you'll need to do. Checking Your Car's Tire Pressure Twist off the cap of the tire's valve stem. Place the gauge reader on the end of the open stem. Apply force for a tight seal for a proper reading. Add or remove air as needed. Use a compressor to add air. You can visit your local gas station if you do not own one. If your tires are overinflated, place the non-rounded end of your gauge on the valve stem to release pressure. Does your car need an oil change in Sherwood, AR? Click here to schedule a service appointment! Checking Your Tire's Tread Another critical component of maintaining your vehicle's health and your safety is keeping track of your tire tread. Professionals recommend inspecting your tread using the "penny test." This lets you know if it's time to replace your tires when they become too worn down. On their blog, Bridgestone states that most automotive tires come with 10/32-inch or 11/32-inch tread depths and need replacement when they hit the 2/32-inch threshold. The "penny test" lets you know if you're tires have reached this point in a simple yet effective way. The Penny Test Take the penny and put it in between the raises on the tire tread, or "rib." When placing the penny, make sure Lincoln's head points down. Check to see if Lincoln's head is visible. If Lincoln's head hides behind the tread, your tires are above the 2/32 threshold. If Lincoln's entire head is visible, it's probably time to replace the tire. Are you shopping for an electric vehicle in Central Arkansas? Click here to check out the EV9! Taking care of your car's tires is a chore, but it can significantly impact how well your car drives by affecting braking and handling. Inspecting your tire tread with the penny test and checking tire pressure are simple tasks that can drastically impact your car's performance. Stop by Crain Kia of Sherwood in Sherwood, AR, today!

Profile view of a 2023 Kia Carnival parked in front of an apartment building. | Kia dealer in Sherwood, AR | Crain Kia of Sherwood

Car GPS Not Working? Visit Your Kia Dealer Today

Most drivers rely on GPS navigation to get from point A to point B, especially on longer trips or drives to unfamiliar locations. GPS can help you navigate traffic, road detours, and much more. But what if your car GPS is not working? In the event of a malfunctioning navigation system, you should schedule service at your Kia dealer. The service center at your local dealership has a few ways to restore the navigation system in your vehicle. If there is an issue with the latest GPS update, a hard factory reset of the navigation system or reinstalling the GPS software can correct the issue. If there are problems with the GPS display because of damage to the touchscreen, replacing this screen should fix the issue. Certified Kia technicians will be able to get your GPS up and running in no time. Why Would Your Navigation System Stop Working? One of the most common reasons a navigation system stops working is because of issues with the latest software update. Your GPS will only update when the car is on, but if your car battery dies during the update, or you turn your car off, this can cause issues with the navigation system. Some GPS systems are sensitive enough that updating the software while the car is idling can also cause problems with the software. Other times, your navigation system may be malfunctioning because of issues with the infotainment system, such as damage to the touchscreen. Or, it could be the case that your subscription to the navigation software is over and you need to renew your access. Is It Worth It to Have a GPS System for Your Car? If your car comes with a subscription to a navigation system for your infotainment system, you might not have to make the decision about whether to opt for a navigation upgrade. However, if installing navigation is an option you have when you purchase your vehicle, it's a good idea to get GPS for your car. The main advantage of having GPS in your car is the reliability of a second navigation system. Even if you use GPS on your phone to navigate, your car's navigation system may be more accurate or easier to use. You may even be able to access your vehicle's GPS system in areas where your phone's GPS fails because of a poor internet connection. Overall, a second GPS option is a good idea. If you're having trouble with your vehicle's satellite navigation system, you can always visit your local dealership to troubleshoot the problem. From a factory reset to other debugging issues, your dealership will have access to the software necessary to restore your GPS. Contact Crain Kia of Sherwood to schedule a service appointment today.

Transmission

What's Involved in Routine Transmission Service?

Regular car maintenance is an easy way to keep your vehicle running at top performance for an extended time. Most people know to give their car frequent oil changes, but did you know giving your transmission some tender loving care will save you from costly repairs down the road? Here are some illuminating facts about the transmission service available at your Crain Kia dealer. What Is a Transmission Service? Transmission Pan-Drop Fluid Change Your service technician will remove the bottom pan and drain the fluid using some help from gravity. Debris discovered in the bottom of the pan can provide valuable insight into the condition of your transmission. It's important to note that the pan-drop change only replaces about half of the fluid at a time, as the other half remains in the torque converter. To thoroughly clean the transmission, your technician will drain and replace the fluid several times. more Filter Replacement Just like oil filters, transmission filters accumulate dirt and debris over time. That's their job. To ensure your vehicle continues to run optimally, changing your filters every 30,000 miles or every two years is essential--whichever comes first. Transmission Fluid Flush Our licensed technician will use a pump to efficiently drain all the used fluid, sludge, and grime. This ensures a timely and thorough cleaning process. The transmission will then be refilled with fresh, new fluid to keep it running smoothly. A flush is performed after evaluating the condition of the transmission's interior through inspection of the fluid pan. Inspection The service technician will carefully inspect the pan, filter, and all transmission parts for signs of wear, damage, and potential problems. Professional recommendations for repairs will be suggested to save you costly repairs later on. It will be far easier and cheaper to replace a simple gasket than to rebuild the whole transmission. When Should You Visit Your Kia Dealer? Filters should be checked every 30,000 miles, but check the recommendation in your owner's manual. Generally, the best time to get service on your automatic transmission is 100,000 miles. Or 60,000 miles if you drive in extreme conditions like snow or sub-zero temperatures. Seek immediate expert advice if you notice any of the following: Check engine light is on Red fluid leaking from the car Slipping or grinding gears Sluggish shifting Noises when in neutral Unresponsive transmission Smoke or burning smells Although DIY projects seem appealing, please heed this warning: a transmission fluid and filter change is messy, challenging, and requires specific car repair equipment. Today's transmissions are tightly sealed and require computer-assisted technology, making service nearly impossible for do-it-yourself hobbyists. Transmission work is best left to the experts. Bring your car to Crain Kia at 5830 Warden Rd and let our experts keep your transmission happily humming down the highway.

Rear profile view a gray 2023 Kia EV6 parked under a structure. | Kia service center in Sherwood, AR.

How Often Should You Replace Your Kia's Brake Pads?

Brake pads can last between 25,000 and 65,000 miles, but deciding when to replace them within this wide range is a balancing act. Too soon means unnecessary expense, but too late could put you and your car at risk of an accident. We've put together some of the things you should consider when determining when to ask your Kia dealer for a replacement. Ask Your Kia Dealer Pads absorb the friction created when the calipers squeeze against the rotor to slow the vehicle down. This means that they'll always wear out eventually and need regular checks, so it pays to make sure that a brake service becomes an unshakeable part of your maintenance routine. During this appointment, a specialist will check your rotors, clips, calipers, pads, and shoes to ensure that they're all in perfect working order, and will recommend any necessary replacements. It's best to have this check at least once a year, and for added convenience, you can schedule it alongside a routine tire rotation or oil change. Evaluate Your Driving Habits The lifetime of your pads depends on how often you use them, so if you're the sort of driver who relies heavily on your brakes then you'll need a shorter interval between replacements. If you "ride the brake" or tend to stop the car late and hard, then your pads will become worn more quickly, and you'll be replacing them closer to the 25,000-mile mark. This is something that you need to factor into your maintenance routine, but it's also a good idea to try and change your driving style. Using longer stopping distances and engine braking is safer, better driving practice, and will save wear and tear on your car's components. Consider the Driving Conditions Some journeys are harder on your pads than others, as they require you to brake harder and more often, and may corrode parts of the braking system. These include: Heavy traffic Stop-start traffic Steep, hilly roads High temperatures Dusty or gritty roads You'll also have to brake harder if you're carrying or towing a heavy load with your car. All of these conditions mean that your pad replacements will need to happen sooner rather than later. Listen to Your Car If the pads are too worn, your car has a variety of ways to let you know about it. If you notice a screeching, squealing, or low rumbling noise when you brake or feel a change in sensation when you press on the brake pedal, then it could mean that your brakes are dangerously worn and need a checkup right away. The best way of ensuring that your pads and all other parts of the braking system are in perfect working order is to seek the advice of technicians that you can rely on and trust. That's why you should schedule service at Crain Kia of Sherwood, where our exceptional customer care and specialist knowledge mean that you'll get the best advice and solutions.

Profile view of a black 2023 Kia Rio. | Kia dealer in Sherwood, AR.

Is Your Car AC Not Working? Stop By Your Kia Dealer Today

With the car AC not working, a long journey can become something that you dread rather than look forward to. Make sure that you're aware of the symptoms of a malfunctioning aircon system so that you can contact your Kia dealer and get it fixed in good time. How Does It Feel? One of the best indications that your air conditioning unit is in trouble will come when it stops working effectively and no long keeps the air in your cabin feeling cool and dry. However, if the air from the vents blows warm when it should be blowing cold, or if it starts cold but becomes warm, then the aircon system is struggling. It could be a simple case of low refrigerant, but alternatively, there might be issues with other components of the AC. Another problem might be a weak airflow, which points to a clogged air filter or an issue with the fans. A muggy feel to the air suggests that the humidity regulation system in the aircon is malfunctioning. How Does It Smell? Your nose might also tell you if the aircon isn't quite right. A musty odor from the vents can occur if mold has built up in the system. This is not only unpleasant, but is bad for your respiratory system in the long term, so it's important to book an appointment to have it cleaned out. A sweetish or chemical smell can point to a coolant leak in the system. How Does It Sound? Strange and unfamiliar sounds from any of your car's systems are generally not very good news, and the same applies to the car aircon. Problems with the compressor or the compressor clutch might be signalled by a rattling or loud humming noise when you turn the AC on, while knocking and clicking could point to loose fixtures within the system. A whirring or whistling noise should also be checked out. What Can You See? Another telltale sign of a faulty aircon unit might be damp patches or leaks within the car cabin itself. This is caused when the evaporator drain becomes clogged, causing condensation to build up inside the system, or might be a result of damaged and corroded seals. This often manifests as drops of water down the dashboard, and a permanent damp patch on the floor, usually on the passenger side. If you've invested in a quality car, you definitely don't want problems in your air conditioning unit to undermine your enjoyment of the drive. The good news is that the sooner you take action, the sooner it will be fixed and the less likely it is that your car will suffer ongoing problems. For exceptional service and expert care, contact Crain Kia of Sherwood and let us give your AC some TLC.

Profile view of a parked, 2022 Kia Carnival. | Kia dealer in Sherwood, AR.

Car Overheating? 5 Possible Causes From Your Kia Dealer

If you are struggling with your car overheating, this can be a sign that there is something wrong inside the vehicle that needs to be fixed immediately. Overheating is an issue that should not be taken lightly and is often caused by malfunctions in the engine. Ignoring the problem can cause extensive damage. There are many reasons that your vehicle can be overheating, but your Kia dealer can help. 1. Climate Driving underneath a hot sun with no air conditioning can cause your vehicle to overheat quickly. Adjusting your air conditioning system during long drives can help to keep the engine from overheating. Additionally, if your dashboard indicators show a low coolant warning, fill the coolant as soon as possible. 2. Air Conditioning If your car's A/C doesn't work correctly, it can create sweltering conditions inside your vehicle. This is uncomfortable for your and can cause rapid overheating. If your A/C is malfunctioning, get the car to an expert to have it checked out as soon as possible. Your local dealership will be able to troubleshoot and repair the air conditioner and get you back on the road as soon as possible. 3. Bad Thermostat A bad thermostat in your vehicle can cause it to overheat when the thermostat is stuck open or, conversely, stuck closed. The faulty thermostat can cause severe damage from overheating if it is not fixed immediately. Replacing the thermostat is a quick fix. However, you need to have the vehicle checked out by a professional to ensure that nothing else is causing the problem. 4. Clogs The coolant in your car needs to be able to flow freely. When you have a clog in your radiator, that fluid backs up and is incapable of flowing as it should. This leads to a vehicle that overheats. A trusted mechanic will be able to diagnose the problem and remove the blockage safely. 5. Leaks Another reason your car may overheat are leaks in the coolant lines. If your vehicle develops cracks or leaks in your cooling system, you will notice puddling underneath the vehicle when it has been parked for extended periods. If you develop a large crack, you may even leak fluid while driving. If you notice a leak while driving, stop immediately and turn off the engine. Next, get your car into a trusted shop as soon as possible. It is stressful when your car is overheating, especially when you don't know why or how to fix it. Stop by Crain Kia of Sherwood and let us diagnose the problem and get you back on the road today. Image via Kia.

Close view of the front tire of a 2022 Kia Seltos. | Kia dealer in Sherwood, AR.

5 Signs Your Kia Could Use New Tires

To ensure road safety, keeping your tires in prime condition is essential. Visual inspections are not enough to avoid accidents, like a dangerous blowout on the road. Here are some signs to watch out for if you're wondering whether it's time to visit your Kia dealer to get new tires. Tread Erosion Depth Tread (the grooves in your tire) should never be shallower than 2/32”. If you often drive on wet or icy roads, a deeper tread is safer as it gives your tires better grip. So, if you live in a rainy place, your ideal tire depth is 4/32". This can be measured with a tire tread depth gauge. One way to check that your tread is deep enough is The Penny Test. Push a penny into the groove, ensuring that Abraham Lincoln's head faces down into the tire. If Lincoln's forehead disappears, your tread is safe, but if you can see the top of his head, you should replace your tires. Wear You should also check the wear on your tires. Replacing worn and balding tires gives better handling and control on the road. If the wear on your tires is uneven, that's a sign you need to check your tire pressure and get to a dealer as soon as possible. Some newer tires have “tread wear indicator bars” built into them. Ask your dealer if these could be an option for you. The indicator bars run inside the tire in the same direction as the tread. When they appear, it's time to replace your tires. Sidewall Cracks or Bulges Look out for grooves or hairline cuts on the side of your tires. If you often drive on potholed or bumpy roads, you may notice your tires starting to bulge. Bulges and cracks are early signs of leaks, and if you continue to drive on tires like this, you could suffer wheel and suspension damage or a major blowout on the road. If you see any of these signs, get your tires replaced soon. Excessive Vibrations While some level of vibration is normal in certain cars, excessive vibrations are a problem. Potentially, there are many reasons why your car is vibrating. Misaligned or unbalanced tires could be the cause, so you should get your wheels balanced. If the vibrations continue, there could be an internal problem with your tires and you need to get them checked. Get to Your Nearest KIA Dealer If you notice any of the above signs, or if your warning lights are flashing on your dashboard, it's time to get your vehicle to your local dealer. Even if you're not sure, it's always better to be safe than sorry, so schedule an appointment as soon as possible. As we mentioned above, tire life depends on many factors. As a rule of thumb, you should get new ones every 50,000 miles, or ten years. Have questions? Come into Crain Kia of Sherwood for more information and to schedule a service. You'll find us on Warden road at the intersection with Wildwood Ave. Image via Kia.

Close view of the bottom tire area of a red 2022 Kia Stinger. | Kia service in Sherwood, AR.

5 Benefits of Getting a Tire Rotation at Your Kia Dealer

Getting your tires rotated is an easy, inexpensive way to keep your car running smoothly and safely. Rotating your tires improves your car's safety and can save you money. Check out these reasons why it's important to get a tire rotation at your Kia dealer. Extends Tire Lifespan The main advantage of rotating your tires is that it helps to increase the lifespan of each tire and reduces the timeframe needed for replacement. When your tires are rotated, they are moved from one position of the car to the other, giving each tire equal wear. Moving your tires periodically helps ensure that all four tires wear as evenly as possible. Rotating means less wear and tear, less fuel consumption, and less money spent on new tires! It Saves Money on Gas The condition of your tires significantly impacts how much gas you use. Tires that do not get rotated wear unevenly, forcing your car to work harder to maintain the same speed. Uneven tire tread causes your engine to work harder and burns more fuel. Rotating your tires helps ensure that all tires wear down evenly—meaning less strain on your engine and more savings at the pump. Improves Handling By getting regular rotations, you'll be able to keep each tire at its optimal pressure, resulting in better wear. Improper inflation can cause your tires to wear unevenly and lead to safety issues. You'll have better steering and road stability when your tires are in good condition. Better Traction Tires can wear out quickly if used on the same side of the car for too long. When this happens, your vehicle will have reduced traction because the car's weight will be distributed unevenly across each tire, resulting in uneven tread and depth. Less traction will make it more difficult to control your vehicle's steering and braking, and a worn-out tire will have even more difficulty tackling wet or snowy road conditions. Maintains Tread Depth Rotating your tires helps maintain tread depth and improves overall handling. The front tires on your car serve a different function and often wear quicker than the rear tires. If you notice the front tires have less tread depth than your rear tires, it's time for a rotation or time to get them replaced. Worn tires are less efficient at dispersing water and handling snowy roads. Check your tread depth and tire pressure regularly to ensure that you are operating your vehicle under safe conditions. Rotating your tires is a simple way to improve your vehicle's performance and overall safety. If you want to keep your tires in the best condition possible, schedule a service appointment at Crain Kia of Sherwood. We'll inspect your tires, rotate them as needed, and help with any other car maintenance needs you may have. Image via Kia.

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