Want to start off the new year right? Think about making some New Year's resolutions that will make life better for your Kia. Resolve to do a more consistent job of scheduling service appointments at Barnes Crossing Kia in Saltillo, MS to get factory-recommended maintenance on a regular basis. That's a really good way to launch the new year. Here are some New Year's resolutions that will help you do a better job of maintenance and also take advantage of your tax refund to get a better car.
Resolution #1: Get oil changes more regularly
Whether you drive a Kia Sportage, a Kia Forte or Kia Telluride, it's important to get that car’s oil changed regularly based on intervals by the manufacturer. That means getting your oil changed every 5,000 miles or at least once a year. If you drive in dirty, dusty conditions or you do a lot of city driving, you might need to get your oil changed more frequently.
The reason oil changes are so essential is because your engine is the centerpiece of your Kia. Any engine can get infiltrated by microscopic particles of dust, grime and dirt over the course of time. Your motor oil sweeps up all those uninvited guests but it will eventually get dirty and start to lose its effectiveness. With an oil change, we will flush out the old motor oil and fill your crankcase with fresh new synthetic oil. That will help your engine perform more reliably and last longer.
Resolution #2: Have us check your other fluid levels
Besides your motor oil, your Kia has other fluids that help lubricate and clean different parts of your Kia to improve your car’s safety and performance. If you hear a high-pitched squeal as you steer, we can check to make sure you have enough power steering fluid – then top it off if needed. We can also look at your brake fluid to help make sure you can stop safely. Ask us to check the fluid in your windshield wiper reservoir so you can keep your windshield clean when the weather turns rainy.
Resolution #3: Let us take good care of your tires
One of the best ways to do that is with a regular tire rotation. We recommend rotating your tires every time your Kia gets an oil change. When you let us reposition all four tires on your Kia, you'll be helping your tires wear more evenly and last longer. You can also have us check the tread depth on your tires to see if you have enough rubber to drive safely. If your tires are beginning to wear out, we have some first-rate tires in stock and we'll be happy to install a complete new set for you.
Resolution #4: Keep your wheels properly aligned
Getting your wheels aligned is vital for the safety of you and your family. Your wheels can get knocked out of alignment if you simply run over a big pothole or hit a curb too hard. When your wheels aren't aligned the right way it means your steering won't be as accurate and that can be hazardous. Ask us to do a wheel alignment check with every oil change and if you need an alignment, we can take care of that so you can drive more safely in the new year.
Resolution #5: Let your tax refund help you get a better car
The average American taxpayer will be getting a tax refund in the neighborhood of $3,000 this year. If you expect a refund like that, resolve to use that money to make a bigger down payment on a newer Kia model like the Kia Sorento or Kia K5. With a newer Kia, you'll be getting greater long-term dependability and you’ll reduce your repair costs. We encourage you to schedule an appointment for regular maintenance and think about using your tax refund for a new Kia at Barnes Crossing Kia in Saltillo, MS.