Car Myths Debunked: Is premium gas the best option for my car?

Myth: Premium gives the best gas mileage

Fact: Gas is expensive. At our dealership, we don’t want you to waste your money believing this longstanding myth.

While premium gas does enable high-performing engines (such as that of a luxury car) to perform at their full potential, that does not necessarily make it better for your car than regular gas. In fact, according to Consumer Reports, the vast majority of cars are designed to run fine on regular. Unless otherwise stated, premium gas will not improve the fuel economy or performance for most cars.

The only guarantee with premium gas is paying up to 20 cents more per gallon, and our team wants you to save money in the long run. Therefore, we suggest choosing the correct fuel grade for your car based on the manufacturer’s recommendation.

Ask a Technician: How long can I drive on a spare tire?

If you have ever had the misfortune of experiencing a flat tire, or worse still, a blowout, then you can appreciate the importance of carrying a spare tire. When driving on a long journey, carrying a spare tire is absolutely vital, as you may not otherwise be able to get assistance to get you somewhere safe. A spare tire, however, is not a permanent replacement for a damaged tire. So how long can you drive on a spare tire?

It is worth remembering that a spare tire is not the same as a regular one. It's not as durable. Spare tires have fewer layers of steel and polyester beneath the rubber, which means they won't last as long. This is good news generally speaking, because it means that you are carrying less weight since the spare takes up less room in the rear of the car. But it also means that in the event of a crisis, you can only use the spare for a certain amount of time.

A spare tire will have a smaller contact surface with the road, because it is narrower. This increases your stopping distance, and makes an emergency stop much riskier. Other functions of your car, such as anti-lock brakes and traction control are going to be less efficient too. If you use the spare tire for too long, then you run the risk of causing damage to other parts of the car, which are optimized for a regular, full-size tire.

As a general rule, you should drive on a spare tire for the shortest distance possible. Use the spare to get you to the next available place where you will be able to get mechanical assistance where you can purchase a replacement tire. The spare is there to get you out of an emergency situation. It is a lifeline, not even a medium-term substitute for a proper replacement. Fit the spare, and then work out the shortest possible route to safety. Make sure to take into consideration the driving conditions. A slightly longer route on a highway might be better than remote rural roads, for example, in case you need to call for assistance.

That aside, the limit of your spare tire will be documented in your owner's manual and will, technically, differ from one vehicle's make and model to the next. If you run into trouble and you are a long way from assistance, then you may have to look for alternative means of help if the minimum distance is greater than the safe limit stated in the manual. If in doubt, contact your dealer for assistance. A mechanic will always be able to give you the best advice for your car.

Get Connected with Kia Uvo eServices

Technology continues moving forward every day, and sometimes it can feel like just another part of the frantic nature of modern life. Kia Uvo eServices, powered by Microsoft®, is an example of technology at its best, bringing you closer to important emergency assistance features as well as convenience and maintenance functions through a connected mobile device. Uvo eServices and/or UVO eServices with Nav is available on all 2014 Kia models except the Rio and Rio 5 (offering Uvo only). Take a look at what this advanced technology can do for you.

Fast-response emergency assistance when you need it

Uvo eServices provides enhanced roadside assistance1 with the touch of a button, and will alert an emergency response agent with your location if an airbag deploys through the 911 Connect2 feature. If needed, you can speak directly with the 911 agent through your connected phone.

Maintenance reminders and more

Opt-in maintenance reminders bypass traditional stickers and alert you directly about needed services. For an even more in-depth look at your vehicle’s status, you can schedule and run full vehicle diagnostics checks3 on your Kia’s major features. A copy of the repot can be sent to your preferred dealer to keep them informed of your vehicle’s needs. Then, schedule a service appointment directly from your smartphone, laptop, or vehicle.

The convenience you crave from Kia

Uvo eServices are there to help make your life simpler, on and off the road. With the Parking Minder, you can get your vehicle’s location sent directly to your smartphone, eliminating wasted time. Plus, go even further with UVO eServices with Navigation to find places of interest, send locations from your computer to your navigation system, and more.

With Kia UVO eServices, you’re closer than ever to the driving experience of your dreams. Visit our dealership to learn more.

1 24-hour Roadside Assistance is a service plan provided by Kia Motors America, Inc. Certain limitations apply. Coverage details are available in the Kia Warranty and Consumer Information Manual. For access to Roadside Assistance, a connected mobile phone via Bluetooth within the cellular service coverage area is required.

2 Feature activates after an airbag deployment. Feature requires a connected mobile phone via Bluetooth. Dependent on cellular service coverage area is required.

3 Vehicle Diagnostics do not take the place of regularly scheduled maintenance. Feature checks powertrain, chassis, and airbag systems only, and requires initial activation. For factory-recommended maintenance schedule, see the Maintenance Feature of UVO eServices or the Owner’s Manual.

Image: Kia Motors America

ALL-NEW 2014 KIA SOUL WINS ACTIVE LIFESTYLE VEHICLE OF THE YEAR

Iconic Soul Takes Top Honors in Urban Segment for Second Straight Year

•  2014 Soul praised for versatility, ride comfort and new technology
• Kia’s urban passenger vehicle is the right fit for those on the go

View our Kia Soul Inventory Now!

IRVINE, Calif., October 23, 2013 – Kia Motors America’s (KMA) wildly popular urban passenger vehicle, the all-new 2014 Soul, was named a winner at the 10^th annual Active Lifestyle Vehicle of Year awards held in Chandler, Ariz.  For the second consecutive year, the Soul received the highest score in the urban category after evaluations from local media and athletes.

“Having Soul named as a winner once again at the Active Lifestyle Vehicle awards is strong evidence that our complete redesign of this iconic vehicle was successful. While dramatically improving the Soul’s ride and handling qualities, as well as its interior appointments, it’s lost none of its fun, funky and young-at-heart personality,” said Michael Sprague, executive vice president, marketing & communications, KMA. “From the expansive cargo area to the roof rack mounts that come standard on every trim, the Soul speaks to those who want a vehicle that offers iconic design and all the things that support a youthful and active lifestyle.”

With a more premium look and feel, the 2014 Soul features a quiet cabin and more comfortable ride than its predecessor. The Soul offers an eight-inch navigation screen, Rear Camera Display¹ and a host of other available amenities to make it an attractive offering.

“Kia has been a long-time supporter and participant in the ALV program, and their interest in our audience is obvious in the products,” said Nina Russin, founder Active Lifestyle Vehicle program. “The Soul has always been an awesome choice for urbanites that need a car with a small footprint but also a versatile interior. The 2014 car builds on the first generation with better ride and handling and enhanced technology.”

About the 2014 Soul
Instantly recognizable yet thoroughly fresh – with more than a passing nod to the hot Track’ster concept that was unveiled last year – the all-new 2014 Soul rides on a new chassis that is stiffer, longer and wider.  The Soul’s new dimensions allow for more passenger and cargo room while NVH levels have been reduced dramatically. Increased torque and significant suspension upgrades make the 2014 Soul a nimble and agile companion in congested urban environments, and inside there is a long list of standard comfort and convenience features, including Bluetooth^®2 wireless technology and steering wheel-mounted controls.

Kia:  One of the World’s Fastest Moving Global Automotive Brands
Kia Motors America is one of only three auto brands to increase U.S. sales in each of the past four years, and in 2012 the company surpassed the 500,000 unit mark for the first time.  With a full line of fun-to-drive cars and CUVs, Kia is advancing value to new levels of sophistication by combining European-influenced styling – under the guidance of chief design officer Peter Schreyer – with cutting-edge technologies, premium amenities, affordable pricing and the lowest cost of ownership in the industry.  Kia recently moved up in the exclusive ranking of Interbrand’s “Top 100 Best Global Brands” after joining the list for the first time last year, and is poised to continue its momentum with seven all-new or significantly redesigned vehicles scheduled to arrive in showrooms in 2013.  Over the past decade Kia Motors has invested more than $1.4 billion in the U.S., including the company’s first U.S. assembly plant in West Point, Georgia – Kia Motors Manufacturing Georgia – which is responsible for the creation of more than 14,000 plant and supplier jobs.  The success of the U.S.-built* Optima and Sorento in two of the industry’s largest segments has fueled Kia’s rapid growth and is complemented by Kia’s comprehensive lineup which includes the Cadenza flagship sedan, Soul urban passenger vehicle, Sportage compact CUV, Optima Hybrid, the Forte sedan, Forte5, and Forte Koup compacts, Rio and Rio 5-door sub-compacts and the Sedona minivan.

About Kia Motors America
Kia Motors America is the marketing and distribution arm of Kia Motors Corporation based in Seoul, South Korea. KMA offers a complete line of vehicles through more than 765 dealers throughout the United States and serves as the "Official Automotive Partner" of the NBA. In 2012, KMA recorded its best-ever annual sales total and gained U.S. market share for the 18th consecutive year. Kia is poised to continue its momentum and will continue to build the brand through design innovation, quality, value, advanced safety features and new technologies.

Information about Kia Motors America and its full vehicle line-up is available at its website – www.kia.com. For media information, including photography, visitwww.kiamedia.com.  To receive custom email notifications for press releases the moment they are published, subscribe athttp://www.kiamedia.com/us/en/newsalert.

About ALV
The Active Lifestyle Vehicle of the Year program recognizes vehicles which best meet the needs of buyers with active lifestyles through its awards, and gives the automakers opportunities to interact with elite and area athletes at an annual ride-and-drive program.

* The Optima GDI (EX Trims and certain LX Trims only) and GDI Turbo are built in the United States from U.S. and globally sourced parts.

1 The Rear-Camera Display is not a substitute for proper and safe backing-up procedures. The Rear-Camera Display may not display every object behind the vehicle. Always drive safely and use caution when backing up

2 The Bluetooth® word mark and logos are registered trademarks owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc. and any use of such marks by Kia is under license. Other trademarks and trade names are those of their respective owners. A compatible Bluetooth® enabled cell phone is required to use Bluetooth® wireless technology.

How Proper Maintenance Helps Resale Value

The day you bring home your new car is well-worth celebrating. We hope, of course, that you purchased it from Folger Kia. Wheather you did or not, the day you trade it in at Folger Kia for a new vehicle can be just as exciting, especially if you have maintained your vehicle well over the years. Here’s why proper maintenance is so important, both during ownership and when trading in.

Cost vs. Benefit. There are two primary reasons individuals don't get proper maintenance on their vehicles: time and money. Those who don't have enough time to keep their vehicle maintained will definitely not have enough time to get it repaired down the road. Those who are worried about the cost of maintaining a vehicle need to examine two things: the cost of getting a vehicle repaired due to a lack of maintenance, and the increase in resale value as a result of proper maintenance.

Documentation. So you followed your maintenance log that came with your vehicle, right? Great! You also documented each and every oil change, tune up, tire rotation, windshield wiper switch, and whatever else you could think of documenting, correct? Having this information on hand makes your vehicle much more attractive to buyers. If you tell a prospective buyer that you've meticulously maintained your vehicle, he or she will be more likely to believe you if it's properly documented in a log book, especially when accompanied by receipts.

Recommended maintenance and what to record. If you haven't kept a log, gather your receipts. If you don't have receipts, go through credit card statements. Make sure your records are accurate. Here are some of the things you should document:

• Fluid changes
• Tire rotation
• Paint or body shop receipts
• Engine repair paperwork
• Car detailing receipts
• Inspection reports
• Smog certificates

Other recommended maintenance. Obviously, nobody wants to buy a car that doesn't run well, but in your haste to document and maintain mechanical aspects of the vehicle, don't neglect to maintain the exterior and interior. Unsightly blemishes on the exterior or a torn, ripped, or dirty interior can distract from your well-organized documentation as well.

Pre-sale preparation. In addition to routine cleaning of the car's exterior and interior, there are a few things you're going to want to pay special attention to when preparing a car for resale. Clean the windshields inside and out. Use a high-quality product to return the luster to vinyl surfaces and components on the inside. Vacuum the upholstery and carpets. Wipe down surfaces. If you've been doing this all along, you'll have no problems when it comes to preparing the vehicle. Keep the exterior free of debris and give it a good detailing when preparing it for sale.
 

There are more factors than routine maintenance when it comes to maintaining a car's value. Take note, however, that an unmaintained vehicle will fetch less money, regardless of its make or model.

Visit FolgerKia.com for more information and find out how much your Trade-In could be worth.

Ask a Folger Kia Technician: Should I warm my car up before driving in winter weather?

The daily morning car-warming ritual is carried out faithfully in most parts of the country from late November to early March. But is it necessary?

Brought to you by the technicians at Folger Kia.
 

The purpose of warming up your car. The main reason drivers start their car and let it idle is to warm it up by getting the oil circulating through the engine. Modern fuel injection systems, however, with the elimination of carburetors and chokes, have made engine idling unnecessary. After about 30 seconds, the oil is circulating and your car is ready to go. The Hinkle Charitable Foundation's Anti-Idling Primer, in fact, asserts that idling forces the engine to operate in an extremely inefficient mode, which can harm the engine's performance and lower its mileage. If you're still skeptical, instead of idling, drive a little slower for the first mile or two.
 

Warming up the inside. Many commuters couldn't care less about engine efficiency at 6:00 a.m. in the morning when it's frigid cold. Instead, they just want a semi-warm vehicle to step into when it's cold. However, idling your car can be an expensive and ineffective way to warm up a vehicle. A more effective way to warm up your car is to actually drive it. If you really want to be on the cutting edge, electric cars allow you to pre-warm the vehicle via remote access without ever having to idle.

Idling and the environment. Still not convinced about the inefficiency of idling to warm up the vehicle? Perhaps you think engine inefficiency is a small price to pay for not freezing your fingertips when you enter your car. Maybe, a look at environmental effects will unfreeze your stance. Exhaust is harmful to human health, especially children. Certainly, exhaust is a necessary component of driving a car, but unnecessarily spewing exhaust adds to air pollution. Because idling often takes place close to curbs and sidewalks, pedestrians and children are especially at risk to the negative effects of exhaust.

The cost of idling. If air pollution and the potential harmful effects of unnecessary exhaust don't convince you to cut down on idling, perhaps the cost of gasoline will. Idling wastes gas. Gas costs money, therefore idling wastes money -- your money. Motorists are advised to turn off their engine when idling more than 10 seconds (traffic stops, excluded). You'll save money. You'll save the environment. You'll save your engine. A new engine, by the way, costs money too. A lot of money.

Proper car warming procedures. Don't stand by idly and let this information go to waste. If you're worried about your engine's performance, warm the car by driving it slowly. If you're worried about being cold when you hop in the car, bundle up, start the car, adjust the radio, turn on the heat and get going.

Contact our Service Department for more information or if you have any questions.

KIA SHOCKS THE MOTOR CITY WITH REAR-DRIVE GT4 STINGER CONCEPT

High-Powered Sports Car Focused on Connection Between Driver and Machine Makes World Debut at 2014 North American International Auto Show

 

2+2 seating configuration, 315 turbocharged horsepower and six-speed manual transmission make GT4 Stinger a true enthusiast’s machine

GT4 Stinger was conceived by the “gearheads” in Kia’s Irvine, Calif., design studio, birthplace of iconic concept vehicles such as the Track’ster and Cross GT

Brought to you by Folger Kia

DETROIT, Jan. 13, 2014 – Hearkening back to the glory days of purebred, affordable sports cars, Kia Motors America (KMA) today unveiled the brand’s most aggressive concept car ever when wraps came off the GT4 Stinger at the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS). Kia’s eye-catching design language moves in a bold new direction with the introduction of the GT4 Stinger. The concept pushes the boundaries of performance with a rear-drive 2+2 sports car that places man and machine in harmony on the road or track. It comes as no surprise that the GT4 Stinger is the wild style child of Kia’s California design team, home to its 2012 predecessor, the Track’ster concept. And like the Track’ster, the GT4 Stinger’s racy appeal is more than skin deep.

“Driving enjoyment was the number one priority in designing the GT4 Stinger,” said Tom Kearns, chief designer, Kia Design Center America (KDCA). “It’s an authentic 2+2 sports car that can turn heads as a daily driver while also being right at home on the track. It’s about purity, simplicity and timelessness. The GT4 Stinger is a throwback to days when driving a car was a visceral experience that wasn’t muted by electronic gimmickry.”

Emboldened by the brand’s on-track success in the Pirelli World Challenge racing series with a pair of turbocharged, GTS-class Optimas, Kia’s U.S. design team approached the GT4 Stinger project with an eye toward weight reduction, functionality and pure driving enjoyment. The concept shuns the luxury trappings of a traditional Grand Touring car and embraces the elemental experience of truly engaging with the vehicle. “If anyone were to ask if Kia has the credibility to build a car like the GT4 Stinger,” noted Kearns. “I would simply point out that Kia races – and wins – against some of the world’s most legendary performance brands.”

Kia Racing and partner Kinetic Motorsports captured the Grand-Am Continental Tire Sports Car Challenge Drivers and Team Championships in 2012 with the Forte Koup and are currently preparing the turbocharged Optimas for their third season of duty in the Pirelli World Challenge in 2014 following a second-place finish in the Manufacturer’s Championship last year.

Power, Poise and Proven Performance
Beneath the low wedge of the GT4 Stinger’s hood resides a tuned version of Kia’s proven 2.0-liter turbocharged gasoline direct injected (T-GDI) four-cylinder engine putting out an impressive 315 horsepower. “Our Optima racecars use the same engine and can produce more than 400 horsepower,” said Kearns. “So why not infuse our concept with the kind of power that will make people take notice?”
That power is put to the ground via a close-ratio six-speed manual transmission driving the rear wheels, which are wrapped in 275/35R-20 Pirelli P-Zero performance tires. Staggered 235/35R-20 Pirelli P-Zeros nestle beneath the front fenders, ensuring loads of corner-carving grip. Custom 20-inch aluminum center-lock wheels feature carbon fiber inserts for strength and weight reduction. Tucked inside the massive wheels are Brembo Gran Turismo two-piece 15-inch cross-drilled rotors and four-piston calipers with plenty of stopping power.

Underpinning the GT4 Stinger’s sculpted “Ignition Yellow” body is a custom chassis with independent double wishbone suspension. With a shorter wheelbase (103.1 inches) and overall length (169.7 inches) than a Forte sedan, a width (74.4 inches) greater than a Cadenza, and a swooping roofline nearly nine inches lower (49.2 inches) than a Rio subcompact, the GT4 Stinger cuts a menacing figure. It tips the scales at a scant 2,874 pounds, and weight distribution is spread nearly perfectly at 52 percent up front and 48 percent at the rear. The GT4 Stinger also features a quick-ratio steering rack for direct feedback and uncompromised control.

Simplicity By Design
Fans of Kia’s design language, set by Kia Motors Corporation president and chief design officer Peter Schreyer, will immediately recognize key styling elements of the GT4 Stinger. “We gave the car a shrink-wrapped appearance,” says Kearns. “It’s as if the body panels were formed around the chassis instead of merely welded to it.” In silhouette, the GT4 Stinger is simple yet powerful. The latest iteration of the signature Kia grille rests low to the ground for maximum engine cooling and cold-air induction. The grille surround glows white and features a multi-layered, satin-black border, a theme found throughout the car. Flanking the grille on both sides are vertical LED headlamps, and front-brake cooling vents intricately molded into the bumper provide a clean, smooth appearance. A carbon fiber front splitter mounted below the bumper provides added down force for the car at high speed to keep the GT4 Stinger’s front tires firmly planted to the tarmac.

The long hood gently rises to meet the cowl. Two chrome accent pieces add visual interest to the otherwise ripple-less pond of Ignition Yellow sheet metal. The hood closely embraces the front wheel arches, creating two protruding muscular fenders above the front tires. The result is a pronounced edge at the vehicle’s shoulders that eventually becomes the belt line.

Continuing around the car, the transparent A-pillars provide a more than 270-degree view from the driver’s seat. The layered slots cut into the pillars reduce weight while improving outward visibility. Paying homage to the iconic Soul, the greenhouse design provides an aggressive side profile. “It’s as if the GT4 Stinger is wearing wrap-around sunglasses,” notes Kearns. Similar to the Soul, the roof of the GT4 Stinger appears to “float” from the C-pillars. Along the rocker panels are satin black accent pieces with integrated functional cooling ducts to enhance air flow to the rear brakes.

Around back, the body widens to cover the large 275-series Pirelli rubber. The glass hatch opens to reveal a built-in storage compartment and rear strut-tower brace. The LED taillights illuminate from inside the outer edge of a blacked-out panel just above the dual exhaust ports in the rear bumper.
The interior is purposeful in design and practical in nature. A pull of the billet-aluminum door handles reveals incredibly lightweight doors, but their generous width makes dropping into the molded leather race-inspired bucket seats a breeze. There is no carpet, only a rubber floor mat underneath the billet-aluminum pedals. Front and center to the driver is a thick D-shaped steering wheel and red LED-illuminated instrument panel with large tachometer and gear indicator. In keeping with the track theme and taking inspiration from sports and competition cars of the past, interior door handles have been replaced by red-stitched pull straps. In fact, the GT4 Stinger makes due without the luxury of a stereo. “The audio system starts under the hood and the speakers are the exhaust pipes,” said Kearns. Underway, the GT4 Stinger’s free-flow exhaust burbles and blurts unabashedly and is music to the ears of driving enthusiasts everywhere.

While there are currently no plans to bring the concept to production, Kia has a history of delivering production vehicles that bear a strong resemblance to the concept that preceded them, and the GT4 Stinger provides a possible and highly provocative glimpse into Kia’s future. When asked who the GT4 Stinger is intended for, Kearns quips, “It’s a totally selfish design. The design team at KCDA is full of gearheads and enthusiasts, and the GT4 Stinger is the perfect car for that kind of crowd.”

About Kia Motors America
Kia Motors America (KMA) is the marketing and distribution arm of Kia Motors Corporation based in Seoul, South Korea. KMA proudly serves as the "Official Automotive Partner" of the NBA and LPGA and surpassed the 500,000 annual sales mark for the second consecutive year in 2013 following the launch of seven all-new or significantly redesigned vehicles. KMA offers a complete line of vehicles, including the flagship K900 rear-drive sedan, Cadenza premium sedan, Sorento CUV, Soul urban passenger vehicle, Sportage compact CUV, Optima midsize sedan, Optima Hybrid, the Forte compact sedan, Forte5 and Forte Koup, Rio and Rio 5-door sub-compacts and the Sedona minivan, through a network of more than 765 dealers across the United States. - See more at: http://www.charlottekianews.com/Articles/kia-shocks-the-motor-city-with-rear-drive-gt4-stinger-concept#sthash.BOZ9IWv0.dpuf

KIA FORTE WINS CARS.COM/USA TODAY/MOTORWEEK COMPACT SEDAN CHALLENGE

Forte’s Sleek and Spacious Design Earns Top Honors Among its Competitors

View the full inventory of Folger Kia Forte's online now

Amenities and comfort outshine the competition Kia’s compact sedan designated head of the class by expert testers

IRVINE, Calif., November 12, 2013 – The all-new 2014 Kia Forte was recently named by Cars.com as the best compact sedan in its league. The multi-day Compact Sedan Challenge brings together experts from Cars.com, USA Today and MotorWeek to conduct a series of tests on a competitive set of vehicles and combines their professional assessments with the real-world opinions of car shoppers currently in the market for a compact sedan.

“The Forte truly stood out against the competition,” said Patrick Olsen, Cars.com’s Editor-in-Chief. “Between its dynamic exterior styling, impressive standard features for the price and excellent ride and handling, the 2014 Forte is a well-rounded car that checks off all the boxes of the perfect, affordable compact sedan.”

This years’ competition included the 2014 Ford Focus, 2013 Honda Civic, 2013 Hyundai Elantra, 2013 Subaru Impreza, 2013 Nissan Sentra and 2014 Toyota Corolla. The Kia Forte bested all the rest with its roominess, performance and premium amenities. The Compact Sedan Challenge judges cars based on a series of criteria, including fuel economy, comfort, styling and drivability. 

“The Forte is designed to bring our customers premium amenities at an affordable price,” said Michael Sprague, executive vice president of marketing & communications, KMA. “Cars.com’s recognition of the 2014 Forte as being the best compact sedan among these worthy contenders clearly highlights Kia’s commitment to quality and value for our customers.”

With its sleek European-inspired styling, the Kia Forte was designed to offer more room, more performance and more amenities to an ever growing segment of compact sedan consumers. Article courtesy of Kia Motors of America

Ask a Technician: Do I really need to get frequent oil changes?

Q. How bad is it to not get the oil changed in my car regularly?

A. Clean oil makes for a happy car. Happy cars are less expensive to maintain and have a better resale value, making for a happy owner. Oil serves several purposes. It lubricates your engine, but it also cleans as it goes.

Lubricating your engine parts is oil’s number one job. Without oil, all of those metal parts would be scraping against each other. The result would be a hefty repair bill. Clean oil keeps your car running smoothly and limits the wear and tear your engine endures.

Oil is also a diligent little cleaner. That’s why your oil gets darker as it ages. It’s picking up all sorts of gunk from your engine. If you don’t change your oil, it will get more and more sludgy. Eventually, it can’t absorb anymore dust or combustion byproducts and those substances would be left to do some serious damage to your car.

Most cars should have their oil changed every 5,000 miles. Check your owner’s manual to see what your manufacturer recommends. It’s a cheap upfront cost with great down the line benefits.

Check with our dealership about the cost of an average oil change. We promise that it’s worth scheduling consistent oil changes to save your engine from a premature grave at the junkyard.

Check out our monthly specials for savings on oil changes at Folger Kia!

It's that Time of Year! - Fun Christmas Games

One reason that Christmas is so special is because it is a time for family togetherness and general good cheer. These games are sure to put everyone in a festive holiday mood.

Non-competitive Games

Peace and joy are central Christmas themes, and these non-competitive games are true to the spirit of the holiday.

Snowman on the Back - Make a snowman out of construction paper. You can make one for each family member if you desire. Apply double-sided tape to the back of it. The object of the game is to stick the snowman on someone’s back without him or her noticing. It’s a fun activity that can last the entire holiday season. Feel free to substitute Santa, an elf, or any holiday symbol.

Family Tree - Genealogy is a great Christmas activity. This family tree, however, has nothing to do with ancestry. Find a brave volunteer--dads come highly recommended. Wrap him up in green butcher paper and have the kids decorate him. Don’t forget the camera.

Mystery Present - Put a small gift in a small box. Put that box in a slightly larger box. Put that box in a slightly larger box. Continue until you reach a box of adequate size. You’ll need a die. Hand the die to the first participant. He or she predicts what number will turn up. If correct, that person puts on a pair of oven mittens and unwraps the first box. The game continues until the box with the actual gift in it is opened. You may put intermediate or gag gifts in before the main gift.

Semi-competitive games

Some people enjoy Christmas games with a slightly more competitive edge. Ebeneezer Scrooge and the Grinch come to mind, but we won’t judge you if you prefer such games, too.

Candy Canes - This is identical to the classic card game, Spoons, except you’re going to use candy canes. Each player gets four cards. The goal is to get four of the same card in your hand. This is done by picking up and discarding when it’s your turn. The first person with four of a kind slyly takes a candy cane from the middle of the table. Everyone else may then take a candy cane, regardless of whether they have four-of-a-kind. The person without a candy cane is eliminated from the game.

Christmas Freeze Dance - This is played exactly like traditional freeze dance using Christmas music. A referee starts a Christmas song. Participants dance. The referee stops the music. Participants must freeze. The last person to stop is eliminated from the competition.

Christmapictionairy - This is what happens when you cross Pictionary with Christmas caroling. Put the names of Christmas songs in a hat. A player will randomly choose a Christmas carol. He or she will draw the song. When the song is guessed correctly, the entire team must sing it. Once a song is correctly sung by the entire team, it is awarded a point.

Wishing you and yours a very happy holiday season!

From all of us at Folger Kia!

4 Tips to Remember When Driving on Icy Roads

Keep your cool on icy roads

When ice covers the neighborhood pond, it makes skaters happy. But when ice covers the roads and highways, drivers feel quite differently about the slippery substance.

 

Ice is a major cause of winter accidents because it's not always visible. Also, some drivers feel overconfident about driving on ice due to their car's high-tech safety features.

 

Overconfident drivers may end up ruing their lack of precaution, however, if treacherous ice causes them to slip, slide, skid and spin wildly out of control. These four tips will help you stay on solid ground even if it's a sheet of solid ice.

 

Buckle up and put on your defroster

You should wear your seat belt at all times, but especially during icy conditions when accidents occur at a greater rate than normal. Put on your defroster, too. Your defroster helps to keep your car windows from forming ice and melts snow if you're facing the double winter whammy of ice and snow.

 

You always need to keep your visibility clear but especially in bad weather. Prepare for the unexpected and be on high alert for potential dangers like skidding, slipping or stalled cars blocking the road.

 

Slow it down

 

Seems like all drivers should know it’s important to reduce their speed when driving on icy pavement, but some drivers think that snow tires, all-wheel drive (AWD) and electronic stability control (ESC) will eliminate slipping and sliding.

 

Good tires help to grip the pavement, AWD assists in accelerating and staying mobile, and ESC helps to avoid spinouts, but even improved traction won't keep you safe if you're traveling at speeds too high for icy conditions. By reducing your speed, you give yourself a better chance to stop safely, to stay on the road, and to get where you're going in one piece.

 

Don't stomp on the brakes

When the roads are icy, you have to drive with greater caution and with slower, gentler actions. Brake softly, and try to avoid sudden hard stops which can initiate a spin that you may not recover from. If you do find yourself skidding:

 

• Immediately,  take your foot off the gas pedal or brake
• Let  the car naturally slow down and gain traction
• Steer  in the direction you want the car to go
• As  your traction improves, gently brake or accelerate as needed
• Avoid  over steering or sudden sharp turns

If you're walking on ice and quickly twist your feet in another direction, most likely you'll fall. That's why people walk cautiously and prudently on icy patches. Same thing goes for your car. Sudden, quick, steering maneuvers can create skidding just like over braking.

 

Follow the skidding advice above, because it doesn't' matter how or where you're attempting to steer the car's wheels if they have no traction. Only when the tires are gripping the road and actually rolling can turning the steering wheel alter their direction and yours.

 

Be aware of road conditions

 

Check social media, TV or the radio to see what meteorologists are saying about the weather. Low temperatures and even a few droplets of precipitation can make ice. Also, keep in mind, black ice may look like an innocent puddle, but if you know it's 31 degrees outside and there's light rain, you should treat the roads like a sheet of ice whether you can see it or not.

 

Brought to you by Folger Kia.

What is KiaKey?

Join the KiaKey online community and earn rewards today

 

Whether you’re a social media maven or simply a fan of extraordinary vehicles, Kia has introduced the ultimate online destination for you. KiaKey is an all-new online community created exclusively for Kia owners to share their passion for driving through social media.

 

KiaKey gives drivers an opportunity to share their love for all things Kia on social networking sites. Members can also participate in special activities to earn miles, unlock unique Kia content and win various prizes!
 

 

CONNECT

Sync your Facebook, Twitter, Instagram or Foursquare accounts. Connect as many as you like: the more you connect, the more chances you have to earn miles.

SHARE

Share your Kia pride by adding the #KiaKey hashtag to your status updates, Tweets, photos, and check-ins. The more you share, the more you earn!

       

PLAY

Join other KiaKey members in participating in special activities designed to show off the unique style of Kia owners.         

       

UNLOCK

Unlock Kia keys, exclusive rewards and share your achievements to possibly unlock even more unique content.

       
HAVE FUN!

Show the world what it means to be a Kia owner. Every owner (and every Kia) has its own special style and personality – flaunt yours and get rewarded all at the same time!