Monday Maintenance Tip: Checking Your Power-Steering Fluid

What is this?

Simply put, power-steering fluid is the hydraulic fluid that transmits the power in power steering. Servicing it involves draining or flushing out your car's old power-steering fluid and then adding fresh power steering fluid.

Should I do this service when it's recommended?

Absolutely. The fluid is the cheapest component of your power-steering system. Changing it can help to prolong the life of other, more expensive power-steering components such as the power-steering pump and the stratospherically expensive power-steering rack.

Why do I have to do this?

Over time, the seals, O-rings and internal power-steering components will wear out. When they break apart, they contaminate the power-steering fluid, which forces the power-steering pump to work harder (having to pump little chunks instead of just fluid) and eventually break down.

What happens if I don't do this?

You'll eventually chew up your power-steering pump. It'll have to be replaced at a cost of several hundred dollars, or you'll have no power steering — and you can't easily drive a car that's equipped with power steering when the power-steering system fails. You also may damage the rack, which will require you to take out a small home-equity loan to replace.

Is there any maintenance required between intervals?

If you hear a whining or moaning noise when you turn the steering wheel, you should have your power-steering system checked. Your power-steering pump may be about to fail.

Also, if you notice a leak of any kind, you should definitely check your power-steering fluid level and make sure you keep it topped up. Running out of fluid will cook the pump, too.

Car Talk Tip: If you do a lot of your own car maintenance, and you feel like servicing the power-steering fluid yourself, you'll still need to dispose of the old fluid properly. To find out how to dispose of hazardous materials where you live, check out the 1-800-CleanUp/Earth's 911 Web site.

Courtesy: cartalk.com

2013 Kia Optima SX Limited | "Specs" Commercial

Kia's International Design Credibility Blooms

A trifecta of prestigious international design awards has confirmed what the public and media experts have been saying - Kia stands out from the crowd.

Kia's baby Rio, winner of the Carsguide Car Of The Year for 2011 and Australia's Best Car for the Light Cars under $20,000 segment, picked up a pair of prestigious international awards for its styling, quality, innovation and practical capabilities.

The Rio was awarded a 2012 Red Dot Design Award in March this year against the best the world has to offer and backed up this month with a bronze medal in the transportation design category of the IDEA (International Design Excellence Awards) program, administered by the Industrial Design Society of America.

Since its inception in 1955, the Red Dot Design award has become one of the world's largest and most recognized design competitions. This year 1800 companies from 58 countries submitted to the Red Dot product design category.

The new Kia Rio was awarded thanks to its "powerful personality, created by a distinct wedge shape, a low roofline and its metal-to-glass ratio". The jury praised not only the Rio's self-contained design, but also its sound workmanship. Kia has won six Red Dot awards since 2009 with vehicles like the Soul, Optima and Sportage.

The IDEA awards are decided on by the Industrial Designers Society of America (IDSA) and recognize designs that affect a person's quality of life in 18 categories. This year, the Kia Rio received Bronze honours in the Transportation category.

The judging panel cited its fresh, sporty feeling; exciting design, and environmental credentials, saying "the Rio is a car that is extremely attractive with a fresh feeling of sportiness _ a car that people will want to buy for its looks as well as its environmental credentials In the 2012 model Kia created a car that answers consumer demand for more quality, more choice and a more attractive, exciting design."

The third leg of the design trifecta went to the Picanto which, in addition to a Red Dot Design Award, collected an iF (International Design Forum) Award from the Hanover-based global design recognition organization.

Courtesy: paddocktalk.com

Monday Maintenance Tip: Checking Your Drive Belts

What is this?

This is the inspection or replacement of the belt(s) in your engine compartment.

Every car has a water pump, a power-steering pump and various accessories — all of which are powered by rubber drive belts. On older cars, each of these components is driven by its own belt. On most modern cars, all of these components are driven by one belt, called a serpentine belt.

Should I do this service when it's recommended?

Definitely.

Why do I have to do this?

Belts in your car don't last forever. They wear out from use and eventually crack and decay from ozone that's in the air.

What happens if I don't do this?

If your car has individual belts and one of them breaks, then you'll lose the function of whatever part that belt was powering, such as the alternator, power-steering pump or water pump. If the serpentine belt breaks, all of these parts will stop functioning. Engine damage may result from overheating.

Is there any maintenance required between intervals?

Between service intervals, inspect your car's belts for cracks. If you hear a screeching noise coming from under the hood — especially when you start your car on a cold morning or when making a sharp turn — you might have a loose belt.

Car Talk Tip: If you're changing a serpentine belt, draw yourself a diagram of where the belt runs so you'll know exactly how to install the new one.

Courtesy: CarTalk.com

Official: Kia K9 Flagship Sedan Named "Quoris" for Global Markets

Kia has just announced the new K9 flagship sedan will go on sale in select countries later this year, but it won't be known as the K9 once it leaves Korea's shores. The rear-drive luxury car has been renamed the Quoris for global markets.

Kia says the Quoris name is derived from the English words "core" and "quality." The K9 officially launched in Korea a few months ago, looking much larger and more upscale than any Kia we've seen here before. Falling in length between the Hyundai Genesis sedan and the Equus, the rear-drive sedan wears Kia's signature tiger nose and headlights accented with LED lights. The Quoris' profile is decorated with side vents, while its rear looks similar to that of the BMW 7 Series.

Under the hood, it packs a 286-hp Lambda V-6, though another 329-hp 3.8-liter V-6 is expected to launch later on. Both engines are paired to an eight-speed automatic transmission. While the Kia Quoris is based on the Genesis sedan, it's about as luxurious as the Equus, with features including a an advanced blind spot monitoring system, a head-up display, adaptive cruise control that can come to a complete stop, and a premium rear-seat package with heated and ventilated seats and a reclining backrest.

Though the luxury sedan was recently spotted on American soil, Kia still isn't saying anything about whether it will offer the Quoris in the States.

 

**  Courtesy of Motortrend Magazine (Online)

More unbeatable summer deals have arrived!

Leave Valley Hi Kia with the peace of mind that comes with purchasing one of our Certified Pre-Owned Vehicles including this 2011 Kia Soul for only $15,937 or $252 per month!

Click here for details

2012 Kia Optima Hybrid

Some automakers—notably Toyota and Honda—leaped upon the hybrid-powertrain bandwagon early. Others joined the gasoline/electric group later, but several continued to hold back, searching for other ways to boost gas mileage. Among the reluctant entrants was Kia, which finally launched its first hybrid model in 2011, echoing the introduction of a gasoline/electric Sonata sedan from its South Korean corporate parent, Hyundai. Like its corporate cousin, the 2012 Kia Optima Hybrid sedan brings an appealing level of fuel-efficiency.

Up to 40 MPG on the Highway

Kia claimed "class-leading" fuel efficiency for the Optima Hybrid when it appeared as a 2011 model: up to 40 miles per gallon on the highway and 35 mpg in city driving. Two configurations are available: the base model, and a more costly version fitted with a Premium and Technology Package. The 2012 Kia Optima Hybrid has added an HE Radio and power-folding mirrors to its available Hybrid Premium and Technology Package.

An air-cooled 270-volt lithium-polymer battery pack, developed in partnership with LG Chem, works with an electric motor. Compared to the older nickel metal hydride batteries, Kia's Li-PB battery is said to be 20-30 percent lighter, occupies 40 percent less volume, and is 10 percent more efficient. According to Kia, it also holds a charge 25 percent longer than many competitors' batteries, and is warranted for up to 10 years or 150,000 miles.

Hybrid Power and Performance

Developing 166 horsepower, Kia's 2.4-liter Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder gasoline engine is connected via a wet clutch to the electric motor, which yields 40 horsepower and 151 pound-feet of torque in full-electric mode. Rather than using a continuously variable transmission (CVT), as in most hybrids, Kia's gasoline/electric system is connected to a six-speed automatic transmission.

Because it's a full parallel hybrid system, the Kia Optima Hybrid can be driven in full-electric mode at up to 62 mph, for a relatively short period. When the car comes to a halt and the electric load is slow, the engine shuts off completely, restarting again as the driver touches the accelerator pedal. Or if it's starting off from a stop in electric-only mode, the gas engine restarts later. A Virtual Engine Sound System plays a prerecorded engine sound during electric-only operation at up to 12 mph, to help notify pedestrians (including the blind) that the car is approaching.

Couple-Like Styling

Claiming a "coupe-like profile," the 2012 Optima Hybrid sedan sits 5 millimeters (0.2 inch) lower than regular Optimas—a difference that isn't likely to be noticed. Distinctive Optima Hybrid features include a chrome version of the customary grille, lightweight 16-inch alloy wheels, a rear spoiler, foglamps, heated outside mirrors, and LED taillamps. Unique headlights help to channel air, while smooth underfloor panels aim to improve airflow.

Front/rear lower bumpers and side sills were inspired by the sporty SX trim level. An active air flap system in the grille automatically opens and closes based on speed, engine temperature and airflow, to help reduce drag. At 0.26, the car's drag coefficient is 10 percent "slippier" than non-hybrid Optimas. Models equipped with the Premium Technology Package get 17-inch wheels with low-rolling-resistance tires, power-folding mirrors, and high-intensity-discharge headlights.

Interior and Safety Features

Inside, the instrument panel is said to be "contoured toward the driver." Standard Kia Optima Hybrid features, comparable to the LX trim level, include an eight-way power driver's seat, dual-zone automatic temperature control, pushbutton start, a "Supervisor" instrument cluster with LCD display for hybrid information, and leather-wrapped steering wheel. Fixed rear seats include a ski pass-through.

Six airbags are standard, along with electronic stability control. Kia's Premium and Technology Package adds a panoramic sunroof, four-way power front passenger seat, driver's seat memory, heated/cooled front seats, heated rear seats and steering wheel, and a navigation system with backup camera.

Kia Optima Hybrid Driving Impression

Magnificent is the word for operation of Kia's hybrid powertrain system, which stays in EV mode for quite a while as long as you don't push hard on the accelerator pedal. Battery/gasoline transition is barely perceptible—sometimes, not noticeable at all. Excellent sound insulation keeps engine sound well subdued. Occupants get plenty of front-seat space, with a comparatively long driver's seat bottom. Visibility is top-notch.

Smooth and quiet on the highway, the Optima Hybrid has a pleasantly light steering feel—but not excessively so. Thus, you can expect nice control in turns. A superior ride is the rule, too, at least on good roads.

Acceleration is rather enthusiastic from a standstill, but more modest when pushing the pedal at 50 mph or so. Either way, response is quick, with no significant delay for a downshift. In fact, the transmission often feels almost like a CVT in terms of smoothness.

Courtesy: AutoMedia.com

Monday Maintenance Tip: Cleaning Your Air Filter

What is it?

The air filter stops airborne contaminants from getting sucked into your car's engine. It's a paper filter that stops debris such as dust, leaves and wayward pelicans before they get inside the engine and do damage.

Should I do this service when it's recommended?

Yes.

Why do I have to do this?

Because, eventually, your air filter will get plugged up.

What happens if I don't do this?

If your air filter gets too dirty or clogged, your engine won't be able to suck enough air into the combustion chambers. The engine will then run rich (i.e., too much gas and not enough air). When this happens, your car will lose power and run roughly. Your Check Engine light also may come on.

If you really neglect the air filter for a long time, your car may stop running altogether. While permanent damage is unlikely, it is possible. If an air filter were sufficiently dirty and damaged, it could allow harmful, abrasive contaminants into the combustion chamber.

Is there any maintenance required between intervals?

If you operate your car under severe duty, such as frequent driving on dirt roads or a lot of stop-and-go driving around town, then you should halve the recommended service intervals for the inspection and replacement of the air filter.

Car Talk Tip: Inspecting and replacing your air filter is an easy task. Almost anyone can do it ... with the possible exception of Jerry Springer. By purchasing the filter directly from an auto parts store, you can sometimes save $10 or more, in addition to the labor costs.

Courtesy: CarTalk.com

5 Stars in Customer Service

Valley-Hi Kia has received a 5 star review for their outstanding customer service! Click HERE to read more reviews.

"James Cuellar was excellent with me and he really worked with me about my trade in and financing. James was one of the best car sales people I have met... He was knowledgable and helpful and he was genuine, which is hard to find."

2012 Kia Optima Hybrid Road Test & Review by Drivin' Ivan Katz

Normal 0 false false false EN-US X-NONE X-NONE

It's got looks, luxury, and lots of economy, the Kia Optima Hybrid. How does it pull it all of successfully? Let's find out.

Most of us were probably brought up to think that looks aren't everything. But to me the Kia Optima is a great looking car and that alone should help to make it a strong seller.

I'm even a fan of my test car's blue grey color and the blacked out grill, but the alloy wheels have a bit too much alloy for my tastes. It looks like they were going for a bit of an Alfa Romeo cum VW GTI cloverleaf shape, but to me in the wheel department, less is more. Still overall it is a clean and luxurious look.

The interior is also clean and luxurious. The all power heated and ventilated seats are a combination of cloth and leather which gives them a distinctive style. The driver also gets lumbar support.

You get a leather wrapped console with two tiered storage, two cupholders, a non CVT standard transmission, dual zone climate control and in my opinion, Kia's excellent infotainment screen which houses controls for the sound system, navigation and information about the hybrid system. UVO is Kia's voice control system which helps you keep your eyes on the road and your hands on the wheel.

There is a menu display on the dash that lets you scroll through two trip distance meters, outside temperature, service information, hybrid energy flow, eco level, eco score, fuel economy and distance to empty. The dash by the way looks really good day or night.

Out back you get two vents, storage, a cup holder and your own heated seats! The large trunk also has a pass through for skis.

Under the hood you will find an eerily quiet 2.4 liter 4 cylinder that produces 166 horsepower and 154 lb. ft. of torque. With the electric engine total horsepower jumps to 206. That will get you from zero to 60 mph in 8.4 seconds. That's pretty quick for a hybrid!

The Kia Optima Hybrid starts at $25,700. By the time you add all of the options, you are out the dealer door at $32,500. With so much convenience, luxury, economy and safety, I think its a very fair deal.

Out on the road if I had to sum up the handling of the Optima Hybrid I would call it "un-hybrid like". The engine has a surprising growl when pushed.

There is a bit of hesitation but once the Kia realizes that you want quick acceleration it really gets up and goes. Also the handling is better than I expected. With its standard transmission, other than being very quiet, it doesn't really feel much different from a normal gasoline only sedan.

With the Optima Hybrid it seems that Kia really has thought of everything. There's a panoramic sunroof that lets the sun shine in on both the front and rear passengers. There's even two chargers up front.

I've always made the point that Kia has been very good at taking the best from all of the other car makers and making it there own. Kia was, not too long ago, a basically unknown car company, and now I think they are at the top of the game in terms of price and features. At this point, some of those other car makers might want to take a look back at Kia!

So the Kia Optima Hybrid has looks, luxury and lots of economy so how did they pull it off? Well for starters, they brought in a former Audi executive who has helped in the total design of the Optima.

It's a nice modern shape that holds every modern convenience. Ergonomically, the navigation system, the UVO system, changing channels on the radio, setting your presets, these are all very well executed and engineered.

Of course there's also the fact that not only does the Optima Hybrid get great fuel economy, but it is also quick for a hybrid. All around the Optima Hybrid is definitely a great car. Could it be the optimal hybrid for you? Take it for a test drive and see! I'm Drivin' Ivan Katz.

 

** Courtesy of Examiner (Online)

We hope everyone is having a great week so far! As you know, we are constantly striving to better ourselves and provide you with nothing but the best when it comes to customer service. Tell us, what makes for a truly special car buying experience?

We appreciate these great reviews from a few of our customers! Excellent work team!

"The service was great, all of the sales people that weren't helping me were very nice, my sales person was extremely helpful without being pushy, and the managers and finance manager were awesome!..." - Jessica H.

Kia Racing continues to make incredible strides thanks to the performance of the turbocharged Optimas, Forte Koups and Rio 5-door B-specs.

Support the Kia Racing Program and check out our selection of Kias right here!

Monday Maintenance Tip: Checking Your Spark Plugs

What is this?

Spark plugs are little devices inside the cylinder that take in high voltage electricity at one end and create a spark at the other end. There, the spark ignites the gas and air mixture, and the resulting combustion is what ultimately powers the car. This service involves removing the old spark plugs and replacing them with new ones.

Should I do this service when it's recommended?

Yes.

Why do I have to do this?

At the sparking end of the spark plug is a built-in gap between two or more little pieces of metal, called electrodes. When the plug fires, one or more sparks jump that gap and a tiny bit of the metal is burned off. This happens hundreds of times every minute. Over time, the gap between the metal tips gets too big.

Also, your spark plugs can get fouled, but that would indicate that you have a problem.

What happens if I don't do this?

Your engine will start to misfire and run poorly, performance will suffer, efficiency will decrease and emissions will dramatically increase. Your car may also be difficult to star

Is there any maintenance required between intervals?

We recommend removing the old spark plugs and reinstalling new ones at least every 30,000 miles.

Many manufacturers have long-life, 60,000- or 90,000-mile spark plugs. If you don't remove these spark plugs until they're due to be changed, you might find it extremely difficult or even impossible to remove them when the time comes. You'll also want to examine the plugs if your car is running poorly. A blackened plug, for example, can tell you that the engine is running too rich.

Courtesy: CarTalk.com

Hey fans, catch a glimpse of the all-new 2013 Kia Optima SX Limited right here and try not to fall in love with its 18" chrome wheels, LED lighting, Nappa leather-trimmed seats and much more...

Monday Maintenance Tip: Changing Your Brakes

What is it?

Brake pads, linings and rotors are parts of your car's brake system and are housed next to each of the wheels. They push against one another to create friction, which stops the car.

There are two kinds of brake systems: disc brakes and drum brakes. Disc brakes are the most common system in use today, and they're very much like the hand brakes on a bicycle. When you step on your car's brake pedal, the brake pads squeeze a spinning disc rotor that's attached to the wheel. The resulting friction, when applied to each of the wheels, slows the car.

The second type, drum brakes, involve brake shoes that push out against a spinning brake drum, which is attached to the wheel. This friction slows the car.

Both systems work by creating friction, so brake parts are expected to wear out. The questions then are, how worn out are they? And are they worn out enough that they need to be replaced?

That's what this service is all about checking these components for wear and other potential problems.

Should I do this service when it's recommended?

Absolutely.

Why do I have to do this?

In short, you do this service so you don't crash into a cabbage truck.

What happens if I don't do this?

If you neglect your brake pads and shoes, your brakes will ultimately fail. Even before that happens, however, you can cause damage to other, more expensive brake parts, such as rotors, drums and calipers. In other words: a stitch in time ... saves you from helping your mechanic with a boat payment later on.

Is there any maintenance required between intervals?

If you notice any of the following signs and symptoms when you brake ...

• flashing brake warning light
• squealing, chirping or grinding noises
• pulsations in the brake pedal
• shaky steering wheel
• increased stopping distance
• car pulls to one side when you stop

... your brakes may require servicing. Make an appointment with your mechanic right away.

Car Talk Tip: Most cars have disc brakes in the front and back. A few economy vehicles and many light trucks have disc brakes in the front and drum brakes on the rear wheels.

Courtesy: CarTalk.com