Kia Picanto GT-Line | Stylish and Smart Small Car

Source: www.kia.com.au

In the growing of small car market, KIA has added new Picanto GT- Line with their small car series in 2018. Compete in the small car market is not the easy thing these days. There are lots of competitor for Picanto GT-Line, including its own sibling Picanto S.

KIA just keeps on giving. The award-winning model already gains the market popularity compare to its competitors where most of them largely remaining static due to low sales volume. According to the micro car selling statistics, Kia Picanto continues to grow in popularity in May 2018 where it accounted for 62.3 per cent of all micro car sales (460 units) and is up 67.7 per cent year-to-date for that period (2018 v 1203 units).

Bold and Stylish Exterior

Source: www.kia.com.au

The first look at the new Kia Picanto GT-Line car will make you think to buy the car. It has the brand new design with new additional features compared to its last generation. The sporty look and bold design with the dynamic lines and contours give it an eye-catching look from the outside.

With the aggressive bumpers in the front and rear, 16-inch alloy wheels, dusk sensing automatic headlights, LED daytime running lights, a GT-Line body kit and with the whole thing topped off by a set of twin exhaust tips give it a new look.

 Eye Catchy Interior 

Source: www.kia.com.au

The interior of the all-new Picanto has been redesigned and equipped with the latest technology. The design of the dash is quite attractive with the centred touch display screen and an instrument pod in front of the driver. Numerous controls are positioned on the wheel which is adding the extra benefits to the driver. 

The premium quality leather sits with red accents, and the proper amount of head and leg space inside the car feels very comfortable as we cannot overlook the fact that it’s a small car. Also, the leather look steering wheel, alloy sports pedals, and a six-speaker audio system make it more like a standard car.

A Lightweight Engine

Source: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:2018_Kia_Picanto_GT-Line_S_-_Engine_1.jpg

Under the bonnet of new Picanto GT-Line has the same engine as its previous variant Picanto S. A 62kW/122Nm 1.25-litre four-cylinder petrol engine is good enough to run in the city. What is the absent is there is no manual transmission variant of new Picanto GT-Line.

Kia officially claims that the new Picanto has the mileage of 5.8L/100km where there are different opinions on that. The good thing is it has a 35L fuel tank which means you won't have to spend much at the pump. Despite small engine, it is capable of carrying up to 1010L by folding the rear seats down.

Safety Features 

Source: www.kia.com.au

Safety-wise the Picanto is pretty impressive despite its four-star (out of five) ANCAP safety rating. The all-new Picanto comes with advanced high strength steel. The rigidity of its reinforced chassis provides safety, improves stability, handling and lowers Noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) levels. 

Adding autonomous emergency braking (AEB) with a forward collision warning system (FCWS) in such a small car make it safer than ever. Also, rear parking sensors and a rearview camera with dynamic parking guidelines are standard across the range ensuring secure parking.

Offer from KIA

Kai has announced seven years unlimited kilometre warranty with all-new Picanto. It’s the best offer compare to the competitor.

Kia Picanto GT-Line is the most stylish and advances small city car. Its new added features give a higher rank compared to others. There are no issues getting up to city speeds with decent pace, and the four-speed auto generally shifts smoothly and intuitively considering the limited ratios.

If you’re looking for an affordable small car, the Kia Picanto GT-Line 2018 is well worth looking into, so come down to Chadstone KIA, your trusted dealer in Melbourne to discuss your needs and find out more!

Concept KIA Vehicles

Concept cars are designed to showcase daring new ideas and technologies. They are generally presented to consumers at car shows and other automotive events, and used to gauge reactions. Car manufacturers can use this feedback when designing vehicles in future.

Here are some of our favourite KIA concepts cars designed over the past decade or so, moving forward in time.

Kia Kee (2007)

Image Source: www.kia.com.au

Going all the way back to 2007 we have the sleek, eye-catching coupe – the Kee. Unlike many concept cars, this vehicle was actually quite realistic. With a 2.7 V6 engine and 6-speed transmission, it has various elements that have influenced the KIA road vehicles of today.

Kia Ray (2010)

Image Source: www.topspeed.com

Released in 2010, the Ray is a classic example of a daring concept car with futurist design elements. Looking as much like a spaceship as it does a road car, this four-seat prototype was put together with recycled materials, and was in fact inspired by aircraft designs.

Efficiency was the primary concern here – this is a plug-in hybrid vehicle with a fuel economy rating of 86 km per litre. It also reflects sunlight, meaning there is less of a need to burn energy using an air conditioner. KIA really thought of everything here.

Kia Track’ster (2012)

Image Source: www.kia.com.au

The highly praised Track’ster caused a lot of buzz at the time. The reason behind this will be clear when you find out the making concept of Kia Track’ster. We now understand this was a sampl e of the direction that KIA has since taken with its Soul models. 

Described as being ‘tough’ and ‘like a bulldog’ by its chief designer, the Trickster is great to look at and has a strong engine to back it up, boasting a 2.0-litre turbocharged engine with 186 Kilowatts of power! We would have loved to see this one mass produced.

Kia Niro (2013)

The Kia Niro, which was presented at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show, is a sleek, compact vehicle with vertical doors and front-wheel-drive capability. Featuring a 1.6-litre engine and seven-speed, dual-clutch transmission, the Niro has been designed to rival smaller European compact cars of a similar type.

Kia Trail’ster (2015)

Image Source: www.topspeed.com

The Trail’ster was Kia’s most rugged concept Kia Cars when it was introduced back in 2015. This off-road beast comes with a 1.6-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine, delivering up to 220 hp and an electric all-wheel-drive (e-AWD) system with 1.2 kWh lithium-ion polymer battery powering a 27 kW electric motor. It’s a true off-road concept king with a rough and tough exterior and a breathtakingly refined interior.

Kia Niro-EV (2018)

Image Source: www.kia.com.au

The descendant of Kia Niro is the newest addition to the KIA fleet. The Niro-EV was first revealed at CES (Consumer Electronics Show) 2018. It’s a real car of the future; not so long ago virtual reality, self-driving cars, and full vehicle connectivity were all considered technologies of the distant future. 

But the Niro-EV features innovative human-machine interface and advanced ‘motion graphic’ lighting systems, giving us a glimpse at the future. Apart from the spectacular design and futuristic concept, this beauty includes the world’s first in-car 5G connection as well.



Concept cars are the perfect examples for years of R&D efforts coming to life. Kia is always bringing the future closer with their innovations.

5 Car Accessories to Keep You Safe on the Road

As we’ve discussed in our previous blog posts, road safety remains one of the biggest concerns for the community and is something we are working towards improving on an ongoing basis. More often than not, these efforts start at the individual level; driving in a responsible way and looking to obey road laws at all times. Interestingly, there are a number of car accessories developed by KIA and other providers that can help you be safer on the road. This article will go through just a few of them.

Blind Spot Mirrors

If you’re a driver, you’ll be well aware of what the blind spot is and how it needs to be checked by a full turn of the head while driving, particularly when changing lanes. Located in the back right and back left or the vehicle, this is a part of the road that you can’t see with mirrors or in your peripherals.

These 2-inch blind spot mirrors are attached to your standard side mirrors and are angled in such a way that you can see exactly what’s happening all around the car with a simple glance to the side, rather than a head turn.

Seatbelt Cutter/Window Breaker

While chances are you’ll never need it, the Rescue Me seatbelt cutter and Window Breaker is a handy tool to have in the case of emergencies. There are a number of cases where accidents have left passengers in a car trapped and unable to climb out - the door may be unable to be opened or the seatbelt may be stuck. 

Keeping this device in your car can help you out of these kinds of situations as it will quickly and efficiently cut your seatbelt and break the windshield or window glass, providing a means of escape.

For a better understanding of seatbelt cutter, you can check out this video.

Dashboard Video Recorder

This may not actively prevent an accident, but it can certainly save you from a lot of headaches if there is some kind of dispute between yourself and another motorist. If you’re in an accident for instance and it is not clear who is at fault or exactly what happened, the video recorder will help set the record straight.

Further, it stands to reason that in the future all cars will be fitted with cameras, ensuring that we have as much information about what’s happening on our roads and make informed decisions about how to improve safety.

Are you interested to know about dashboard cameras? Then watch out this worthy video. 

Rain Repellent

Rainy weather conditions often contribute to poor visibility, which can certainly contribute to drivers making mistakes which can potentially lead to accidents. Rain-X Rain Repellent might sound too good to be true, but it can help keep the rain off your windshield and improve visibility significantly. 

Applied to your windscreen before you hit the road, it causes the rain to slide off the glass once it lands. When used together with your windshield wipers, it can be highly effective.

The attached video shows the test and review of Rain Repellent. Click this to know much more about it.

Emergency Kit

You never know what’s going to happen when you’re out on the road; so having a road emergency kit in the boot is always a good idea. Usually, these packs will include first aid kit including bandages and scissors, duct tape, various tools such as screwdrivers, a flashlight, a rain poncho and safety vest, cable ties and possibly even rations.

These items can be purchased in a package or separately, but they can be well worth having with you not just for your own safety, but for that of other motorists if you happen to come across the aftermath of an accident on the road.

These are just a few of the extra accessories on the market that can help you stay safer when driving and also don't forget to scrutinise your car from authorised Kia service Centre. For more information about available Kia accessories and service related queries, talk to the team at Chadstone Kia today.

Top 7 Important Things to Check Before a Road Trip

Whether it is business or pleasure, it is always a great moment to head out on a road trip. The promise of a change of scenery is among the paramount lures of the open road.

Every driver expects to have a headache-free trip. Occasionally, the driver may get soo much pre-occupied on the obligations at hand. Thus, they may end up forgetting to perform a little upkeep before hitting the pavement.

In general, the most critical aspect of your vacation is having a smooth errand. Nailing down on the key areas of your automobile will increase the chances of arriving at your destination in order. In this article, we have listed the prerequisites that need to be addressed adequately

1. Check the tires for trends and pressure

Read the rubber. Inspect tires to make sure they're not unevenly worn. Also, it is important to check the amount of tread left on all the four tires. Your tires should accomplish maximum traction in all weather conditions.

Another significant checkup is the tire pressure. Ensure the figures are set on counts to the recommendations outlined on the driver fuel filler door.

2. Lighting

It's an offence in law to have a defective lighting, especially before a night journey. Obligatory lights need being frequently checked. These lights are - Side and tail lights.

• Headlamps

• Direction indicators

• Stop lights and a rear number-plate light

When fitted, the long-range lights, hazard warning lights, and fog lights should also be working optimally.

3. Engine oil and coolant

No doubt that you read the manufacturer's oil-change manual, don't you? Check the date due to change the engine oil. Be sure to use only the right-quality oil to avoid unnecessary engine malfunction.

Also, it costs nothing to check if the under-hood coolant reservoir is topped off. However, it's not a good idea to mix up different coolants. The owners’ manual recommends using the coolant type that is already in the engine.

4. Check for leaks in the hydraulic hoses

Check and replace any blisters or bulges on the hoses which are a sign of a weakness in the wall. Check all hose connections to ensure that all clips are cutting into the rubber.

As a precaution, ensure your glove compartment has a new hose-patch kit. When pinhole leaks in the hydraulic line, relieve the pressure before taking any further step. Of course, no driver will enjoy being stranded in the middle of nowhere.

5. Brake System

Brake fluid is a hygroscopic mineral, meaning it absorbs moisture as it ages. Moisture in the braking fluid will have a corrosive effect on braking components. Check the colour of the brake fluid which tends to turn to Marple syrup when it attracts moisture.

If you are at it and the condition is questionable, address it right away. If you haven't had a flush at it for some time, top off the brake reservoir to the full mark. You may also resolve on having your service station inspecting the car's brake pads and replacing them in case they are worn out.

6. Gas Cap

Every driver should ensure the gas cap is securely fastened to the fuel tank. It plays an important role in spillage of gases, evaporation, and contamination of the gas tank.

To help the driver monitor the gas cap, the car has a check fuel cap lighting. The lighting illuminates as soon as it senses a default in the fuel cap.

Quickly determine the problem in case the check fuel cap lighting comes on. In some cases, it may require the services of a top-rated mobile mechanic for easy replacement and repair.

7. Catalytic Converter

A catalytic converter is an essential component in automobiles as we all raise to conserve the environment. The converter transforms the exhaust fumes into a less poisonous gas. If your automobile is equipped with the OBDII Code Reader, it will be easier to discover any malfunction.

It's also important to visually check the converter. You should be able to light it up well to trace any loose material.

A malfunctioning catalytic converter is not an issue you can afford to ignore. It may result in the fuel mileage dropping unrealistically. The acceleration may be compromised, or the car fails to start at all.

How to check your car with OBDII Scanner

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h9-6dkjMmQ4

To get started, turn off the engine. Locate the Data Link Connector under the dash. If you have trouble locating the connector, refer to the owner's manual.

Plug the OBDII Code Reader cable to the DLC pot. This pot is usually located underneath the steering column.

Most of the scanners need to be powered externally so switch on the ignition cylinder. If your device does not auto-activate itself, turn it on. The scanner should begin communicating with the computers in your automobile.

At this point, press the "scan" button to begin the code retrieval process. However, the button layout differs in different models, and it is therefore important to refer the device's handbook.

Read through the trouble codes displayed on the screen. Some of the OBDII code Reader devices support a device-to-desktop connectivity. It's a great privilege if your scanner supports connectivity as the codes will be easily covered in your desktop handbook.

Understand the trouble codes

Some of the generic codes apply to all OBDII Code Reader models. However, there are some manufacturer specifics which you need to learn. Referring to the repair manual can also give a meaningful information about those subsystem codes.

Important Note

Accessing the trouble codes will not turn off the car engine light. The engine light interacts with all sensors throughout your car. If the recorded malfunction is unfixed, the light will always be on.

In conclusion, even experienced road trippers get caught up in an emergency situation. Before departing take a detailed approach to everything you need for your journey. In fact, the list evolves into a spectacular wayfinding idea to make your endeavours even more accomplishing.

Explore Your Car - 2018 Updates in Popular KIA Models

KIA is constantly making upgrades and improvements to its range of cars, whether it be added features, additions, design improvements or engine specifications. It’s always interesting to see how these changes develop over time, as they are often made as a response to feedback from the previous year and to ensure various models are appropriate for their target market. While 2018 has seen fewer changes than last year, there has been some addition to some of KIA’s biggest car models. This article will have a look at a few of the changes, updates and improvements that we saw between last year’s and 2018’s KIA cars.

KIA Soul

The 2018 KIA Soul was actually very similar to last year’s model, with only a few minor changes being added. This followed the transition between the 2016 and 2017 models, which included the lower price-tag, a bigger engine and various other refinements. Sales numbers improved significantly and KIA has decided to stick with what works in the case of its funky, small SUV. The 2018 model has been highly reviewed, with critics often remarking that it has incredible value for its price. 

One of the biggest changes in 2018 is the additional colour offered, which is called Wild Orange. Always an option if you’re feeling adventurous! Some of the additional gadgets packed into the 2018 Soul include an upgraded infotainment system, which caters to both Apple and Android devices - automatic climate control is also included in this. Some of the other features include heated back seats and steering wheel, and LED lighting on the outside of the vehicle.

KIA Sportage

Again, the Sportage saw big changes from 2016 to 2017, mainly in terms of its appearance. It was made longer, making the interior more spacious. There were also a bunch of improvements made to handling, suspension and steering, with software and infotainment upgrades included to boot.

This time around, the changes have been less dramatic. The 2018 Sportage resembles the 2017 model with the same long body and styling. However, this model has added safety features and introduced lower trims, as well as improving on various standard features. This has had the effect of bumping up the base prices slightly, although the consumer has more choice in terms of options packages.

KIA Optima

KIA’s award-winning midsize sedan, the Optima, remains one of the most competitive models in the segment. The 2018 version has seen various improvements and has largely been rejuvenated, with technology and safety upgrades coming without a significant bump in the price.

The five trim levels on offer include the stylish, all-new KIA Optima S, which was not present in the 2017 line-up. It comes with a sports bumper, spoiler, LED tail and fog lights, with a panoramic moonroof to top it off. The 2018 Optima improves on its predecessor’s safety and entertainment features. Added to the long list of features are Rear parking assist, Blind Spot Detection and a Cross Traffic Alert system, all included as standard. Add to that Kia UVO eServices technology as standard - with a touchscreen and Apple/Android connectivity for all your infotainment needs.

Come down to Chadstone KIA and check out the all-new Optima, Soul and Sportage today! You can browse through our website or get in touch with us directly for more information. 

3 Accessories That Can Secure Car To The Next Level

Auto security systems and technology have come a long way over the past decade, making it more difficult for car thieves to steal vehicles and get away with it. Most modern cars come complete with a range of innovative security features. Older cars, however, may be more vulnerable and it can be a good idea to install separate safety KIA accessories to ensure your vehicle is protected. Let’s take a look at three basic but very important safety accessories that should set up on your car.

Glass Break Sensor

An add-on to a standard car alarm, a glass break sensor is a safety accessory that gives your vehicle that little extra security in the unlikely case that someone tries to break the window of your vehicle. Picking up sound waves that are created when the glass is broken, this device triggers the car alarm. This is a handy security feature that is standard in a lot of new cars.

There have been complaints from car owners in the past pointing out that these devices are too sensitive and will set off the alarm at the drop of a hat, so to speak. Technology has improved to make glass break sensors more sophisticated and can be combined with shock impact sensors, so they only go off when it is necessary.

GPS device

As well as a means of finding your way around, having a GPS tracking device installed can help you locate a stolen vehicle. Obviously, you’d be better off if your car wasn’t jacked in the first place, but on more than one occasion, car thieves have been tracked down as a result of a GPS tracker. Modern systems will speak to your phone and transmit their location and in which direction it is moving. So if your car does get stolen, you can notify the police and provide its exact whereabouts, making it more likely they retrieve it for you.

Starter Disable

A starter disable works by breaking the electrical circuit or connection that is necessary to start up the car when someone turns the ignition. This makes it impossible to start up the car without breaking the starter disable or in some cases flipping over the switch, which can often be hidden anywhere around the car. Other devices are activated when the car alarm goes off.

While it’s true that some car thieves will be able to disable such a device, it is decidedly more complicated and takes more time. This can be a source of frustration and pressure for a would-be car thief, especially when the alarm has been set off. Most auto electricians will be able to install a starter disable on your car for a relatively low cost.

You can check out the full range of KIA accessories available online or at any KIA dealer. Speak to the team at Chadstone KIA for more information.

10 Technologies Which will Make You an Innovative Car Owner

In early 18th century cars were used for transportation then it became a symbol of taste and family status. But now car is a necessity and we have to spend nearly 20-25% of the day in a car. A statistics shows that, the average driver logs 13,476 miles per year (37 miles a day) and spend 50 hours a year in traffic jam which has doubled in last 30 years.
Essentially your cars are becoming the second home. So it’s not enough anymore to design standard functional cars that only performs all the traditional automobile tasks. We need our cars to be smart, easy to use, and comfortable with all the new technology in it. For this reason automakers and tech companies have been designing innovative car features time to time to improve your driving experience.
Here are 10 Technologies which will make you an innovative Car Owner -

Car to Car Communication

Vehicle to vehicle or car to car communication is a new step taken by the tech experts in the car technology world. It’s a process to inform other vehicles about your position or speed once the vehicles are connected with each other to avoid crashes. They can also change their route if necessary based on real time information. This can help reduce traffic in case of accidents or natural calamities or other road issues.

Stress detecting Car: Really!

A car seat capable of detecting your stress was unveiled during a Connected Car expo in Los Angeles in November, 2015. This was developed for the drivers to keep them focused and comfortable. This cars can measure factors like heart rate, stress level and employ counter measurements such as activating massage therapy. Car will notify the driver if he/she wants to activate it or not. Isn’t it incredible? So why spend extra money when you can get a free message from your car!

Cars with Advanced Touch Screen display

Automobile manufacturers have already made cars smart and easier to use. Touch screen display is one of them. It’s just like an I-pad. These screens accommodate you with video chats, video games, information about your car. This feature might still be a perk but soon it will become an expected necessity.

Driver-less Car: Wait What!

The driverless car is not a new thing on the plate because Google launched its self-driving cars almost 7 years ago. But it’s taking a lot more time to go mainstream. Well, nothing happens for no reason. The most vital issue with these cars was their slow speed. But these cars are very unlikely to make any mistakes. Though it’s a software and no human would be in charge of it, it can be risky people says but you have to take some risks if you want a better life. Isn’t it!!

Digital Dashboard

Suppose you are traveling and you need to find a hotel nearby. What are you going to do? First thing that will cross your mind is to take your smart phone and search for it or use the GPS. If you are driving you might fumble with your phone and might happen any bad occurrence. But what if your car system is linked to whatever cloud service you are using on your smartphone or tablets allowing you to keep up with texts or calls or mails and you just open an app of your need with voice command and search for whatever you need. Visioning this, by 2020 your car dashboard will resemble a giant iPad with a voice controlled system. These digital dashboards may turn your smartphone into a wireless router or they can connect it with Bluetooth device like Kia’s UVO.

Wi-Fi

Most of the technologies that we are thinking our future car should have or can make us an innovative car owner won’t even work if the car does not have a hotspot. Technologists are expecting to boast over 10 million vehicles with WI-Fi technology by 2021. Having Wi-Fi built into your car has its own unique advantage. In comparison to your cell phone's hotspot, the car will have a bigger antenna and stronger signal which will results in much enjoyment for others and the driver will get time to time updates of the condition of the roads. But what do you think apart from all the advantages, is it safe for the driver as everyone is addicted to social media activities? Well, every good thing comes with some bad thing which we eventually have to learn to avoid for our own safety.

Bio-metric Vehicle Access

There was a time when keys were used to open cars locks but now we have seen the evolution from using the key to being keyless. And now the tech experts are working on more advanced systems like fingerprint or retina scanner to open your car lock which can help to reduce car hijacking. This technology sounds familiar and easy too as people are also using this on their smart phones. So why not use it for our cars to take it to a next level?

Smart Cars like Smart Phones

Smart phone was like a dream in the past but it's reality now. Soon smart cars will be a part of our day to day life. Google launched its Android Auto (a telematics software) to connect with the car’s dashboard. Bunch of car makers like Kia, Jeep, Ford, Fiat, Infiniti, Volvo etc. are interested to use Android Auto in their cars. It can give the drivers access to GPS, maps, Streaming music, weather etc. Apple is certainly not lacking behind in this technology. Apple’s software ‘Car Play’ was liked by some big branded car makers like BMW, JLR, Honda and Hyundai.

Precollision Technology

A pre-collision assist and pedestrian detection technology have been developed by top car makers like Hyundai and Ford. If the driver is asleep or not focusing on the road then this software will alert the driver. This software can also apply the break system if the driver does not respond to the warning.

Solar Car Chargers

Solar Panels can charge your car battery, power the air condition or the infotainment system at long as its sunny outside. This can also improve your car’s mileage.

7 Tips for Safe Auto Travel During the Summer

If you are planning on vacationing this summer, you will need to take your car through its paces to avoid ending up on the roadside. Summertime is particularly demanding on a car. Heat plays a major role in the deterioration of parts that will stop your car in its tracks. So, before you set off on that 200-mile road trip, follow these simple tips to keep your car safe during the summer.
As a reminder, ensure that your vehicle is off and has been given time to cool off before you go poking around under the hood. There are many parts of your car that may not look hot until you touch them, so be careful and be sure that the car’s engine is cool.

Radiator/Cooling System

Overheating is one of the most common issues our shop sees during the summer and is the most common reason for summertime breakdowns. What may be a negligible problem during the colder months can wreak havoc during the summer.
Your car’s engine will have to work harder during the summer, which means more heat. If your cooling system is not up to the task, then the engine will quickly overheat.

Checks:

- Coolant levels
- Radiator cap (loose caps can cause evaporation). Don’t ever try to remove the cap if the car is hot
- Hoses and clamps
- Dash temperature indicator

If you have not taken your vehicle in for routine maintenance, then now is the time. Coolant, for example, should typically be changed annually.  There are additional checks that a mechanic will perform that most people will be too inexperienced to do themselves.

Battery

There are many reasons why a battery may bite the dust during the summer. If you have not changed your battery in a while and then decide to go on a road trip and find yourself stuck in traffic with the AC blasting, GPS and phones plugged in and charging, then the battery can quickly begin to fade.

Checks:

- Age – You should replace your battery every 3-4 years
- Charge – You can charge your battery before you begin a road trip.
- Headlights – Dimming lights
- Cranking – Slow cranking when turning on your car

There are many auto parts stores that will test your battery free of charge (sorry). Take advantage of this as a professional will know which signs to look out for in a defective battery like corrosion.

Air Conditioning

Many people will find out at the last minute that their AC isn’t working because they don’t turn it on until the temperatures outside really start climbing. Even if your AC is working, you should ensure that it's operating at full performance. If your AC is only marginally operating, then there is a chance that it will fail when put under stress as is common during summer.

Checks:

- Temperature - Place a thermometer into your AC vent to check how cold the air is.
- Cabin air filters – These are paper filters that filter the air coming into your cabin.
- Leaks – Look for refrigerant leaks under the car.
- Controls – Make sure that you can control the speed of the fan and temperature.

If you believe that you may have AC problems, but cannot pinpoint what exactly the issue is, then it is time to bring the car into the shop. There are a number of issues that can affect a car’s AC, from failed hoses and seals to moisture in the lines. A certified mechanic will be able to diagnose and repair such problems.
As with many of the issues presented, bringing your car in for routine maintenance will solve most of these headaches.

Brakes

Brakes actually go through more stress during the colder months. Driving is generally a lot slower and can be a lot harder on brakes. When the summer months start, make sure that there hasn’t been too much wearing and tear at this critical area of your car. Ensure that your breaks are in proper working condition before going on any vacations or road trips. This is one of the most important parts of a car and malfunctioning brakes are very dangerous.

Checks:

- Strange noises
- Longer-than-normal stopping distance
- Grinding
- Corrosion – check the pads for crumbling, cracks or discoloration
 If you notice anything out of the ordinary, then you should have your brakes inspected immediately. Many mechanical problems on cars start off fairly small, but can quickly get out of hand and cost more than the initial repairs.

Tires

Tires are another essential part of your car you need to be inspected regularly. You should bring your car in to have rotations done at least every 5,000 miles. You should also have your tires inspected to see if an alignment is necessary.

Tires will put a strain on other parts of your car. Low tire pressure will make it more difficult for the engine to move the car. Proper tire pressure will also have a positive impact on gas mileage.
If you notice your car’s tire pressure symbol pop up on the dash, then you should have the tires examined immediately. Low tire pressures, if left untreated for too long, can lead to blowouts and other expensive repairs.

Checks:

- Tire pressure – Follow your owner’s manual and check the pressure when its cold outside
- Tire replacement components – Do you have a jack, spare tire, etc?
- Tread – uneven or completely worn tread is a sign of trouble. Use the penny trick on your tread
- Cuts, nicks and nails
- Pulling – Does the car pull more to one side?

Oil

Oil lubricates the many parts of the engine and keeps components save damaging from each other. So it's important to choose the best oil for your car. This is particularly important during the summer months as it helps prevent overheating. Changing or topping off your oil is an inexpensive maintenance item that goes a long way. Whenever you change your oil, do not forget to change the oil filter along with it.

Check to make sure that you have enough oil in the car and that the color is golden brown. An off color or too much residue in the oil is a clear sign that you need to have an oil change. If you notice that there is not enough oil in the car, but the color is alright, then just add some oil.
Most modern vehicles will give you an indicator on your dash or screen when you require an oil change. If this is not the case, then simply consult with your manual and keep a note of at what mileage your next oil change should be. Always use the oil grade recommended by your car's manufacturer.

Checks:

- Dipstick – The oil should come up to the fill line and be a clean, golden-brown color
- Leaks – Oil leaks are very common. Many times, you will smell these before you see them.

General Maintenance Items

Here are some additional maintenance items you should be performing on a routine basis, but especially right before the start of the summer months.

Checks:

- Gas cap – Loosely fitting or missing gas caps result in gas evaporating from your vehicle
- Belts – Screeching or creaking noises from belts may be a result of cracking. Check for poor tension
- Wiper blades – don’t get stuck in a summer storm without adequate protection from the rain
- Wash and detail – after a stay at the beach, make sure you properly wash the top and undercarriage of the car to get rid of salt residue
- Jumper Cables
- Emergency kit – flares, water, food, basic tools, first-aid kit and a flashlight at the very minimum

Traveling during the summer is fun, but it’s important to be prepared. If you made it through summer in the past without any car problems, then consider yourself lucky. Give your car the due diligence it deserves and you will continue to enjoy it throughout the rest of your vacation. It is also recommended to see a car service centre like Chadstone Kia before you leave for a long and entertaining summer vacation

Author Bio

Adam Chmielewski is the owner at Malone’s Service and Performance, a European automotive repair shop located in Marietta, Georgia. He and his team have been servicing, repairing and upgrading vehicles in the metro Atlanta area for over a decade. Adam is passionate about the automotive industry and seeks to deliver outstanding services and education to everyone that steps into his garage.

5 Things You Should Do Immediately after an Accident

The fact is that nearly all motorists are involved in an accident at some point in their lives. We hope that these are minor rather than serious accidents, but regardless, you should be prepared for this to happen and have some idea of how to conduct yourself if this is the case. Particularly for young drivers, it’s well worthwhile having some idea of what is expected of you in the aftermath of an accident and how to go about it to ensure that everyone is safe and the process is smooth sailing. Let’s take a look at what you should be doing after an accident on the road.

Remain Calm

People can get very upset and angry about what the behavior of other motorists on the road, but even if the other driver is at fault, it’s important to stay calm and collected. Losing your temper will usually only lead to a negative outcome, as it’s likely to upset the other person and create more tension than is necessary.

Ascertain Who to Blame

This is one of the most important parts of the process. You need to establish with the other driver the circumstances that led to the accident and who exactly is at fault from a legal perspective. Sometimes there will be some disagreement about that this, in which case the police and those who may have witnessed the accident may need to lend a hand.

In most cases, it is pretty clear who is at fault. Information should obviously be exchanged and it’s important to make sure the other driver is who they say they are.

Call the Police

For smaller accidents such as light bumps in the car park, for instance, this may not be necessary, but getting in touch with the police is an absolute must if there are is any significant damage to either car and/or passenger. Also, if traffic is being held up as a result of the accident and you’re unable to clear the road for whatever reason

If you’re unsure about whether it is safe to drive your car away from the scene, the police officers can advise you and help you organise for a tow-truck to come and collect it on your behalf. They should also take a statement from both drivers and create a police report. Lastly, make sure you get the officers’ names and details so you can get in touch with them if need be.

Take Photos

Having as much information as possible about the accident is ideal; you never know what could possibly happen down the track with regards to insurance, etc. So take a few snaps of the damage to your car, even if it’s just a bump or a few scratches. Even if the accident was your fault, it’s worthwhile having photo graphical evidence of the state of your vehicle for later on. More to the point, take photos of the other person’s car too! Your insurance might wind up having to pay for damage that simply wasn’t there.

Seek Medical Treatment if Needed

Your own safety is the most important, so if you believe you’ve been injured in any way, it’s worthwhile booking an appointment with your doctor relatively quickly. If you are found to be seriously injured and require medical assistance, whether it be a general practitioner, specialist or even a chiropractor, make sure you keep a detailed account of the treatment you have search out and the bills for said treatment. Any absent work days and other activities that you have missed as a result of this should be noted as well. This may be payable by the other driver’s insurance in some cases. If the accident is serious and you have sustained injuries, it may be in your best interests to speak to a lawyer to help you deal with the process that follows.


Having an accident can be a stressful experience and can produce a shock in many cases, but if you have some idea of what needs to be done on your part and you’re able to do that, the process can run as smoothly as possible. At Chadstone KIA, we are always looking to give sound advice to motorists to ensure safety on our roads. Keep an eye on this blog for more tips going forward.