When it first comes to your doorstep, your brand new Kia Stinger is bound to be in pristine condition, sporting perfect mechanics and gleaming paintwork. However, the high temperatures of a Texan summer can take a toll on your car, and there are a few steps that you should take to keep your pride and joy from showing signs of wear and tear. Some of these measures become even more important as your car gets older.
Keep to Your Service Schedule
Kia may offer one of the longest warranties in the industry, but you need to have your Stinger serviced at the correct intervals to retain the validity of the same. Apart from changing your oil and filters and topping up the important fluids, the service technician should also pick up on any problems with the brakes, battery, tires, etc.
Check Your Fluid Levels
Your car may have to work harder in hot weather which can lead to a drop in fluid levels. Between services, a weekly check of the coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid, power steering fluid, and windshield washer fluid will help to ensure that you never run dry. Rubber parts can deteriorate in the heat, so check drive belts and hoses for cracking and leaks.
Maintain Your Battery
Many people think that a car’s battery suffers in the cold and dark winter months, but heat and vibration can cause greater problems. Extreme temperatures can lead to evaporation of battery fluid, causing a build-up of corrosion on the terminals. To combat this, regularly clean the terminals and make sure that the clamps are tightly secured. When your battery is over three years old, have it tested at your Kia service center so that you won’t be stranded at the roadside.
Check Your Tires
Your tires will usually lose around one or two pounds of pressure each month. Check the pressure weekly and top up the air as necessary because incorrectly inflated tires will wear out more quickly. The correct tire pressure for your Kia is on a chart on the driver’s door jamb. Don’t use the pressure marked on the tire wall as that is the maximum value and not necessarily the right one for your vehicle.
Have Your Wheel Alignment Checked
Rough roads, potholes, and curbs can all affect the alignment of your wheels. If your steering wheel vibrates or is not central when the wheels are straight, or the car pulls to one side, your wheel alignment may be off. So, keep note of these signs and have your car checked regularly to help prevent premature tire damage.
Look After Your Paintwork
To keep your Stinger’s bodywork looking as awesome as it did when you drove the car out of the dealership, wash and wax it at least weekly. For the best results, you should do this early in the morning or in the evening when it is cooler. Only use high-quality tools and products that are specifically designed for the purpose. Avoid the car wash at the gas station as they use gray water and harsh detergents which can cause your paint to peel off.
The small amount of time you spend on these jobs will pay off in the long run. For more advice on car maintenance, ask Huffines Kia Denton.
Image via Kia.com | Cropped from original