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.
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Looking for something fun to do this weekend? Why not check out some of the fascinating historical attractions within driving distance of Sherwood, AR? These locations offer a glimpse into the history of our state and are sure to be enjoyed by visitors of all ages. So pack up the family and prepare for a day of exploration and learning.

1. The Old Mill

The Old Mill in North Little Rock is a must-see for any visitor or history enthusiast. Nestled in the heart of the Ozarks, the mill is a living reminder of more rustic times. The water-powered gristmill has been in operation since 1933, and it still produces flour using the same techniques that were employed over 200 years ago.

What excites many visitors is that the mill appeared in the 1939 classic movie Gone With The Wind. In addition to the mill, the site also features a working blacksmith shop, a museum, and a scenic walking trail. The Old Mill is open to the public year-round and provides a fascinating glimpse into Arkansas’s rich history.

2. Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site

Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site is a great option for anyone interested in American history. Located in North Little Rock, the site commemorates the events of 1957. The “Little Rock Nine” crisis occurred when federal troops escorted nine African American students into the newly integrated Little Rock Central High School.

Today, visitors can tour the historic school building, learn more about the crisis through exhibits and films, and on some occasions, meet some of the surviving members of the Little Rock Nine. It’s a powerful experience that is sure to leave a lasting impression.

3. Old State House Museum

The Old State House Museum is located in the former Arkansas state capitol building, which was constructed in 1833. Today, the Old State House Museum houses a collection of artifacts that tell the story of Arkansas’s past.

Visitors can see exhibits on the state’s Native American history, its role in the Civil War, and its development as a state. Whether you’re a lifelong Arkansan or just visiting for a few days, the Old State House Museum will better understand the state’s rich history.

Looking for an affordable and practical family car? Check out the 2022 KIA RIO S. This cozy car is perfect for exploring Little Rock and beyond. It comes with woven cloth seat trim and AM/FM/MP3 Audio System, making it a great value for your money. The RIO S features are perfect for families or anyone who wants a reliable and affordable car. Test drive one today! Visit Crain Kia of Sherwood to see the cars available.

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Your Kia engine provides the power needed to move your car. It’s a complex piece of engineering, filled with a vast array of parts. In time parts can wear or suffer damage, and you’ll need an engine repair. As your Kia dealer, we have the technicians and technology to fix any engine problems for you. These are some of the possible problems we can repair.

Catalytic Converter

Your converter is part of your exhaust system. It plays a vital role in your car by changing dangerous chemicals produced by combustion into less harmful ones. The converter does this by increasing the temperature and pressure inside itself. In time due to the effect of the chemical reactions and wear, the converter can get clogged or damaged.

A clogged converter can cause numerous problems, including misfiring, stalling, and engine damage. If your converter is damaged, it will increase pollution as it doesn’t remove the dangerous chemicals from the exhaust smoke. The converter can get damaged due to age or the failure of other systems like the air filter. Our technicians will examine your converter and repair or replace it.

Battery Problems

The battery provides the change that’s needed to start your engine. When you push the button to start the engine, the battery sends an electrical charge to the starter motor. This charge powers the starter motor and initiates the crank. Your battery is also responsible for maintaining your car’s electrical systems when your engine is switched off.

A battery has a limited lifespan of three to five years before it needs to be replaced. As the battery gets older, it becomes more difficult to recharge and provide a charge. The battery can also be affected by failures of other engine systems, for example, a bad alternator may not be recharging the battery.

Damaged Thermostat

The thermostat is a part of your engine’s cooling system. When your engine temperature rises, liquid coolant is released into your engine. This coolant circulates through the engine and absorbs the heat. This heat is then transported to the radiator, where its exchanged for cooler air from the outside.

The release of coolant is dependent on the thermostat. This small valve responds to an increase in engine temperature by opening and releasing coolant. A failed thermostat will jam open or closed. If the thermostat jams open, it will continually release coolant, and this will drop your engine temperature. A thermostat that jams closed will cause your engine temperature to rise dramatically.

These are just a few potential problems with the engine we can fix for you. If you experience any problems, call us right away at Crain Kia of Sherwood.
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There’s taking the usual route, and then there’s taking the scenic route. Embark on a memorable scenic drive and land at some of the best views around in the Sherwood, AR area.

1. The Old Mill

This nearly century-old park was a pic-taking destination even before the era of selfies and Instagram. As a matter of fact, it was the opening act for one of the most iconic and atmospheric movies of all time: Gone with the Wind.

The storied locale features beautiful landscaping at every turn, dotted by some of the most unique and captivating bridges you’ll ever see. You can traverse well-maintained walking trails and behold natural wonders that include a striking waterfall, the winding Arkansas River, and a pristine lake. And, of course, you can’t miss the main attraction and the centerpiece: a charming and whimsical mill that will transport you to a bygone era.

2. Big Dam Bridge

Straddling Murray Lock and Dam and soaring 90 feet above the Arkansas River, this 14-mile bridge is the longest one for bicyclists and pedestrians in the entire country. Along the route, you can soak in over 70,000 acres of incredible parkland. Pelicans and other eye-catching avian friends may pay you a visit, depending on the season.

If you’re lucky enough to be looking out at the sparkling span of water as it flows through spillways, you’ll be treated to the awe-inspiring view of a lifetime.

3. Petit Jean Mountain

The geological wonders of this breathtaking beauty sparked the creation of Arkansas’ state park system. And if ever views were tailor-made for a postcard, they’d be at sites like the M.A. Richter Overlook. This one haven alone provides an unobstructed and sweeping view of the rolling Arkansas landscape. Visit when the leaves change for a natural feast for the eyes that will rival any artistic genius masterpiece.

Trail systems abound in Petit Jean State Park, where you’ll be rewarded for your hikes with stunning views such as the ones available at the Cedar Falls Scenic Overlook. After just a glimpse, you’re guaranteed to fall in love with nature all over again.

4. Lake Cherrywood

Sherwood offers its own little piece of Mother Nature heaven with this downtown-adjacent park that includes the namesake lake. While anglers and other fishers like the bass, catfish, and rainbow trout fully stocked in the lake, everyday community members also have a great time just hanging out at the gazebo and picnic area. The views overlooking the lake help residents take a breather and appreciate the scenic beauty surrounding them.

If you want to pair your search for the perfect scenery with some off-roading adventure, the Kia Telluride has you covered with sturdy all-wheel drive and eight feet of ground clearance capable of navigating any terrain. The formidable V6 engine gifts you the power and torque you need for rugged travel, as does the bountiful cargo space and 5,000 pounds of towing capacity.

5. Riverfront Park

Explore the roots of Little Rock history at this park hugging the Arkansas River. Portions of the park where boats once anchored to rocks are believed to be the inspiration behind Little Rock’s name. Paved trails aplenty provide so many snapshot-worthy sights of the winding river and its immaculately sculpted habitat. Don’t take your leave without experiencing the uber-popular bridge view.

Reach your jaw-dropping destinations in a jaw-dropping ride. Visit Crain Kia of Sherwood for an up-close view of an inventory made for auto magazines.

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When it comes to maintaining your Kia Rio, Forte, or Sorento, trust the experts who know your vehicle inside and out. Routine car maintenance from the qualified Kia technicians at your Kia dealer will keep your Kia in top condition, reliable, fuel-efficient, safe, and on the road for years to come.

1. Follow the Service Schedule

Your Kia has a service schedule with factory-recommended maintenance intervals to help you keep your car in excellent running condition. Each maintenance interval has specific inspections, adjustments, and replacements that have to be performed. Sticking to the factory-recommended maintenance intervals is the best thing you can do to keep your Kia on the road for longer. Your Kia model’s service schedule is in your owner’s manual.

2. Stick to the Oil Change Intervals

The most important maintenance service is an oil change. Routine oil changes at the recommended intervals will keep your engine well-lubricated, clean, and protected. All the information on oil changes and the correct grade of oil for your specific model is in your owner’s manual.

3. Check the Fluid Levels Regularly

The fluids in your Kia keep the parts cool, lubricated, and running smoothly. It’s essential to check the oil, coolant, brake, transmission, and power steering fluid levels at least once a month to top them off to the correct levels if necessary.

4. Take Notice of Unfamiliar Odors and Noises

Your car will warn you when there is a problem. If you smell strange odors or hear unfamiliar noises when driving your Kia, it’s a warning that something is not working correctly. The best thing to do is get your car to your dealership, and your Kia technician will pinpoint the issue and repair the problem fast and effectively.

5. Pay Attention to the Dashboard Warning Lights

The dashboard warning lights will alert you when something is wrong with your car. If you notice that a dashboard light is in, contact your dealership and schedule a maintenance appointment as soon as possible. A qualified Kia technician will repair the issue before it causes more damage, which could lead to high repair costs.

6. Put Your Trust in A Qualified Kia Technician

The factory-trained Kia technicians at your dealership are experts in maintaining your vehicle. They know what needs to be done during every maintenance interval, use cutting-edge technology and equipment, and fit genuine Kia parts to keep your vehicle in top running condition.

Proper Kia maintenance from the qualified Kia technicians at your dealership and a little car care from you is essential to keep your vehicle running smoothly and save you money on gas and repairs. Drive to Crain Kia of Sherwood today for maintenance, and the qualified Kia technicians will ensure your Kia runs at its best.

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Your car battery provides the power to start your car, and it also maintains your car’s electrical systems when your engine is switched off. A car battery has a limited life, and it will eventually run down and fail. As your Kia dealer, we’d like you to know the signs that you’re going to need a new car battery.

Your Battery Is Old

A car battery has a lifespan of three to five years before it wears out and needs to be replaced. This lifespan can be affected by weather conditions, driving conditions, and driving style. As your battery ages, it becomes more difficult to recharge, and its maximum changing ability also decreases. These two circumstances will eventually cause your battery to wear out completely.

As your dealer, we recommend that you have a battery test after three years. We have the technology to test your battery and gauge its probable lifespan. Our technicians will be able to advise you if your battery is still in good condition or if it needs to be replaced. If a replacement is needed, we always have stock of the correct type of battery for your car.

A Weak Alternator

Your battery uses a large amount of power to cause the starter motor to crank your engine. This drain on the battery isn’t usually a problem, as your alternator should begin recharging your battery as soon as your engine starts. Your alternator provides all of the electrical power for your car while your engine is running, but it will also start to wear down with age.

As your alternator gets older, it will produce less power. Eventually, your alternator won’t supply enough power for all of your car’s electrical systems. This lack of power will also affect the battery, as your alternator will provide less power to replace the energy your battery uses. Your battery will slowly grow weaker and will fail. Our technicians can test your alternator and replace it if it failed.

Swollen Battery Case

A thick plastic casing protects the contents of your battery. Your battery contains sulfuric acid, copper plates, and other items that must be protected from damage by dirt and debris. As mentioned, climatic conditions can cause a battery to fail, and extremes of heat and cold will damage the battery casing. Extreme weather will also affect the chemical balance and reactions inside your battery.

If your battery is regularly exposed to extreme weather, you can check its condition by popping the hood and examining it. If your battery show signs of distortion or that it’s starting to bulge out from the inside, your battery is seriously damaged. We cant repair a battery, but we can replace it with a new one.

A dead battery could leave you stranded and in need of a jump start. If your battery shows any signs that it’s failing, call our service department ASAP at Crain Kia of Sherwood. Our highly trained technicians will examine the battery and replace it if necessary.
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Your safety is important, which is why you should never put off getting brake service for your vehicle. You may be wondering how often you actually need to get your brakes serviced. Fortunately, your Kia dealer makes it easy, so you don’t have to stress. Here is what you need to know.

Brake Service Schedule

How often you will need your brakes serviced can vary depending on the needs of your vehicle and your driving habits. However, it is recommended that you get your brakes serviced between every 20,000 and every 60,000 miles. Nevertheless, you should absolutely get your brakes checked if you notice any concerning signs, and as often as is recommended by your owner’s manual and warranty.

Some concerning signs that you may need service for your brakes include strange noises, an inability to easily stop, pulling, fluid leaks, and vibrations. Any of these signs represent an immediate cause for concern that should alert you to take your vehicle to a service center as quickly as possible. Even if you don’t notice any of these signs, but you have a service light on, then you should still take immediate action.

Why You Should Never Wait

If your vehicle is in need of brake repair, you shouldn’t put it off. This is an issue that should not be taken lightly when it comes to responsible vehicle ownership. Brakes are important for your vehicle to function safely on the road. Failing to address this problem can result in dangerous accidents and legal trouble.

Furthermore, if your vehicle is under warranty and you do not stick to your service scheduling then this could void your warranty putting you at a risk for devastating losses. We value your safety, which is why we implore you to deal with this problem without delay. Knowing you are safe on the road can give you a less stressful driving experience and be less costly in the long run.

How Your Kia Dealer Makes It Easy

Fortunately, at Crain Kia of Sherwood, we make it easy to get service for your vehicle. We offer certified technicians and genuine Kia parts so that you can be sure your vehicle gets the quality of care it needs every time. When you are ready to get service, we make it easy for you to schedule. You can call or schedule online, and pick a time that is convenient for you.

We want to ensure that our customers and their vehicles receive the care that they deserve, and we stand behind our work. When you choose your local dealership for service, you can trust that your vehicle and your safety are in good hands.

Vehicle care doesn’t have to be stressful, and with the safety and dependability features packed into the 2022 Kia Carnival, you can stress even less about your safety on the road. Contact us today at Crain Kia of Sherwood, and we can help you find a new car, or provide quality service for the one you have already. We look forward to meeting with you soon!
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There are a few tell-tale signs that you may need to replace the catalytic device in your Kia. For example, some drivers notice sluggish or slow vehicle performance or reduced acceleration, particularly in manual vehicles. But the most obvious signs of a compromised catalytic device are visibly dark exhaust smoke and the scent of sulfur from the exhaust pipe.

The catalytic device is a crucial part of your vehicle’s exhaust system. This device is designed to transform the harmful fumes from engine emissions into harmless gasses that will reduce carbon pollution. It’s essential for your catalytic system to be in good condition to reduce carbon emissions and adhere to clean air standards set by the government.

Signs You Need Service At a Kia Dealer

In addition to visible dark emissions and a rotten smell from your exhaust pipe, there are other signs of a compromised catalytic device that all drivers should be aware of. One sign is the check engine light on your dashboard. If this indicator light suddenly turns on, then there’s a high chance that the catalytic device in your engine is malfunctioning. Other signs to watch for include:

Poor Fuel Economy

Kia is famous for producing vehicles with excellent fuel economy. This is why it can be alarming for drivers to notice a sudden reduction in their fuel consumption. If you’re filling up at the gas station more frequently, this is usually a sign that your catalytic device is clogged or otherwise in bad condition. Poor fuel economy is harmful to the health of your engine as well as the environment.

Failed Emissions Test

During your annual scheduled maintenance, your vehicle will undergo an emissions test as part of standard examinations of all essential vehicle systems. If your car fails an emissions test, then it’s probably time to have your catalytic device replaced or cleaned. This service can be included in your regular Kia maintenance or can be scheduled through Express Service.

Stalling Engine

If your engine is difficult to start or stalls frequently, this is another sign that there may be a problem with your exhaust system. While manual cars will occasionally stall, this is not a problem that automatic vehicles should experience. Whether you drive an automatic or a manual, it’s always best to have your car checked by a mechanic when the vehicle is stalling frequently.

One of the most crucial functions of your exhaust system is to transform harmful gasses from the engine into harmless emissions. However, problems with the catalytic device in your car can cause problems like visible fumes, bad exhaust smells, and even poor fuel economy. Contact Crain Kia of Sherwood to schedule a check-up for your exhaust system today.

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Sherwood, AR is a pleasant, neighborly town with a friendly community feel and plenty of healthy-living options for dining and exercise. When it comes to looking after your fitness, there are plenty of ways to go about it. Let’s take a look at three excellent ways to keep fit in Sherwood.

CrossFit

For a fun way to get fit alongside like-minded people, give CrossFit a try. CrossFit has been sweeping the nation, growing in popularity year on year, and for good reason. During a session, your trainer takes you through a sequence of high-intensity exercises designed to emulate the squatting, pushing, pulling, and twisting movements we all need to do in our everyday lives. In this way, CrossFit strengthens you in ways that protect you from injury and prepare you for anything.

You can start shedding weight and building muscle today at Sherwood CrossFit. This top-notch training center has small classes suitable for all levels of experience. They’ll start off by measuring your body composition so they can give you specific conditioning goals and even advice on nutrition and health outside of the classes.

Golf

If you wish to get fit at a rather more sedate and relaxing pace, why not take up golf? People often underestimate just how wonderful golf is for your health. During a round of golf, you walk an average of five to seven kilometers while enhancing your hand-eye coordination and strengthening your core with all that swinging. On top of that, golf is a very sociable activity that gets you outdoors in the sunshine, which is good for the soul.

Sherwood has some very fine golf courses to visit. The Greens at North Hills is a perfect place to start. They have an easy online booking system, friendly personnel, and a full 18-hole course with beautiful greens and stunning natural scenery. Two other local courses of note are Pine Valley Golf Course and Hickory Creek Golf Course.

Weightlifting

For people whose primary conditioning goal is to build muscle, you really can’t beat getting down to the gym to lift some free weights. Apart from making you look amazing, weightlifting also improves your overall heart health, straightens your posture, boosts your testosterone, and has even been proven to contribute to longevity.

If you’re new to weightlifting, it can seem a little intimidating, and you do need to take care lest you injure yourself. At Esporta and most of Sherwood’s other excellent gyms, you’ll be able to hire a personal trainer to guide you into the activity safely. When it comes to lifting weights, it’s important to build up a regular habit for the long term. To make this as easy as possible it might be best to simply choose the nearest gym to your home or workplace.

Whichever of these workout regimes you decide to try out, pay a visit to Crain Kia of Sherwood. We’re a local family-owned dealership with a commitment to offering unbeatable customer benefits, such as our 100,000-mile warranty on every vehicle, our 100-hour love it or leave it exchange policy, and our 100% low-price guarantee.

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If you want your Kia to have a long life, then one thing you can do is have routine engine diagnostics at your Kia dealer. As part of the annual maintenance for your vehicle, a diagnostic exam of your engine will identify any mechanical errors early on so you can save on repair costs in the future. Learn about other reasons to schedule a diagnostic test for your engine.

1. Maintain Safety Standards

First and foremost, a diagnostic exam for your engine is the easiest and most convenient way to maintain the safety standards of your vehicle. This exam is performed by trained Kia technicians who will ensure that your engine meets all the rigorous safety standards that make your Kia roadworthy.

A byproduct of maintaining safety standards is the ability to ensure that your engine performs well even as it ages. All engines begin to perform less efficiently as the vehicle ages, which is why routine maintenance is so important. If you aren’t sure how frequently to schedule routine maintenance, refer to your Kia owner manual.

2. Reveal Hidden Issues

A diagnostic exam for your engine can reveal many hidden problems – not only in your engine but in other systems, too. For example, a diagnostic exam may unearth issues with your braking systems, such as pulling when coming to a stop, steering wheel stiffness or vibrations, or other signs of brake issues that may not be obvious.

Another major system that benefits from routine diagnostic tests for your engine is the electrical system of your vehicle. Your engine is composed of several sophisticated electrical systems, and if one of them starts to fail, then it may compromise the safety of your car. It’s important to identify electrical issues early on so you can get them fixed as soon as possible.

3. Save on Repairs

Routine diagnostics for your engine can also help you save on repairs in the future. If hidden issues with your engine go unnoticed for too long, the components of your engine are more likely to be damaged. The only reliable way to correct severe damage to your engine is with costly repairs. Like with your personal health, preventative exams can be hugely beneficial.

How to Schedule a Diagnostic Exam at Your Kia Dealer

Usually, a diagnostic test for your engine is part of your annual service at your local dealership. However, if you are concerned about your vehicle because you’ve noticed signs of poor performance, you can always request an exam when you schedule Express Service. Scheduling your diagnostic exam is as easy as booking your routine service online or over the phone.

If you want to avoid expensive repair costs in the future, it’s a good idea to have your engine diagnosed by certified Kia technicians. A diagnostic test can maintain engine safety standards and reveal hidden issues that compromise the performance of your car. To schedule your diagnostic test, please contact Crain Kia of Sherwood today.

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