At your Kia dealership, you’ll always find essential services that are key to keeping your car running smoothly. From routine maintenance to unexpected repairs, we’re here for you. Here’s what you need to know about the type of services we offer at your local dealership.
1. Battery Service
We offer a complete Battery Service to make sure your car is running at optimal capacity. If your battery light comes on, come visit us so that we can run a diagnostic to see if your battery possibly needs replacement. If your car has trouble starting or your lights inside the cabin seem dimmer than usual, these are also signs that it may be time for a battery check.
2. Alignment Service
Our dealership understands the importance of keeping your tires properly aligned for both safety and performance. Not only does a misaligned tire pose a threat to your vehicle’s suspension system, but it can also compromise fuel efficiency and even cause premature wear on the tread. That’s why we offer comprehensive alignment services to ensure that your tires are always in optimal condition.
Our team of trained service technicians is experienced in all aspects of tire alignment, including tire pressure checks, steering system inspections, and suspension system evaluations. Whether you need routine alignments or major repairs, we have the knowledge and equipment to get the job done right.
3. Oil Change Service
One of our most popular services is our oil change program. Our expert mechanics are trained to provide quick and thorough oil changes using high-quality oils, so you can be confident that your vehicle is well-maintained. In addition, we include a range of other benefits with every oil change, such as a full inspection of your car’s systems, oil filter replacement, and topping off all fluids, such as power steering and transmission oil.
4. Express Service
We understand the need for speed in your busy day when it comes to routine maintenance tasks. That’s why we offer an express service that will get you in and out in just 60 minutes or less. Our express service includes an oil and filter change, a multipoint inspection, a tire rotation, a battery test, and a car wash with a vacuum option.
Our dealership offers a variety of services to help you with regular maintenance for the longevity of your car. Our experienced technicians will take care of all your service-based needs from oil changes to tire alignments to make sure we keep your car running smoothly and safely on the road. Contact us at Koons Kia of Owings Mills and make a service appointment today with one of our expert technicians!
3 Signs Your Kia Needs an Alternator Repair
Your Kia’s alternator is a mini generator that produces electricity for your car. Some of the energy it produces powers the various components and accessories in your car. The remainder is stored in the battery. Over time, like all components, your alternator will eventually show signs of weakening. When this happens, you’ll need an alternator repair. As your Kia dealer, we’d like you to know some signs that your alternator could be failing.
Your Alternator Is Old
On average, your alternator will last for approximately eight years. It will weaken as time passes and won’t produce as much electricity as it once did. This process takes time, and you’ll see signs that your alternator is failing. As the alternator grows weaker, your car will develop electrical problems as the available power drops.
You may experience random electrical glitches, like a sunroof that won’t open or heated seats that won’t turn on. These problems will become more frequent as the alternator worsens. Our technicians can test the alternator for you. If it fails the tests, we’ll replace it for you, and the electrical issue will disappear.
Damaged Wiring
The power generated by your alternator needs to go to every component and accessory, which requires wiring. Your car contains several miles of wires and cables. Unlike wiring installed in your home, electrical wiring in your car has to contend with movement, heat, oil, and other possible damage-causing situations.
Despite its insulation, wiring can eventually wear out or start to fray. If this happens, the components attached to the damaged wiring will shut down. Your Kia’s computer will signal the alternator to supply more power to the failed component. As more electricity is pushed into the damaged wiring, this generates increasing heat. This heat can cause the wiring to burn and produce a foul burning plastic smell.
Damaged Alternator Belt
The alternator belt powers your alternator, AC compressor, and other important components. This belt is attached to the crankshaft, and as the crankshaft turns its movement causes the belt to move. The belt runs at high speed across a series of pulleys, causing them to spin. The spinning pulleys then power their attached components.
A pulley can jam due to metal fatigue, lack of lubrication, or other problems. The jammed pulley will abrade the belt slightly every time it passes over the pulley. In time, this can cause the belt to snap. We’ll fix the jammed pulley and test your belt. We can also replace the belt if it’s damaged.
A damaged alternator will always show signs it’s failing, and this gives time to prepare for replacement. Call us at Koons Kia of Owings Mills.
One of the essential parts of your car is the catalytic converter, which is vital in reducing harmful gasses and controlling your vehicle’s emissions. It’s essential to keep your converter in excellent condition and recognize signs indicating you’ll need repairs or a complete replacement from your Kia dealer.
Failed Emissions Test Result
When you fail an emissions test, your converter isn’t filtering your car’s exhaust, which leads to higher emissions of harmful chemicals and gasses. If you receive this result on your next test, it’s crucial to visit your Kia service center to have your converter assessed for repair or replacement. You can also prevent a failed emissions test by scheduling regular check-ups with your certified Kia technician to ensure your converter is working correctly.
Sulfur Odor
If you notice a sulfur odor coming from your car’s exhaust, your converter isn’t changing hydrogen sulfide into odorless sulfur dioxide. When this happens, you’ll experience a rotten egg smell: a sign that the emission conversation system isn’t working and your converter must be replaced.
Inefficient Engine Performance
When your car’s engine performance slows, and the acceleration is reduced or stalling, this signifies a failing converter. You’ll notice other symptoms accompanying poor engine performance, such as increasing fuel, sputtering, and ignition problems. If you experience one or more of these issues, it’s essential to visit a Kia service center to review your converter, engine, and related components to determine which repairs are needed.
Rattling Noises
Rattling sounds or noises from beneath the driver’s seat or in this part of your vehicle may signify a broken or damaged converter. You may notice these noises become louder when you start your car and as you drive. If the interior of your car’s converter is broken and pieces of the mesh, or filter inside, are moving around, this creates the sound.
When this problem occurs, it’s essential to have your car reviewed by a trained technician at your Kia service center, which may require replacing your old converter.
Regular Engine Misfires
If your engine misfires, this may indicate damage to your car’s engine or converter. When you experience this issue, it’s often a sign of increased fuel usage, which results in higher costs. You’ll want to schedule an appointment with your Kia service center to assess your vehicle and prevent further damage to your vehicle’s exhaust system.
It’s essential to become familiar with signs that your converter isn’t working and schedule regular maintenance with your Kia center to avoid preventable damage and save on costly replacements. Come see us at Koons Kia of Owings Mills and find out what we have to offer you from our showroom today.
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Grabbing your binoculars and heading to a nearby wildlife refuge or nature reserve to find some beautiful birds is a fantastic activity and a great way to recharge your batteries after a long week. If you are thinking of going on a road trip in your brand new 2023 Kia Rio and are searching for the best birdwatching destinations near Owings Mills, MD, here are three places you should explore.
1. Centennial Park
Surrounding a manmade reservoir near Ellicott City, Centennial Park is a beautiful green area that welcomes nature lovers from all over the Baltimore metropolitan area. This park encompasses about 340 acres and features a series of paved trails, nature paths, boat rental opportunities, and picnic spots. Located just 20 miles south of downtown Owings Mills, it can be reached in about 25 minutes by car via route I-695.
Providing habitat to different local and migratory birds, Centennial Park is a magnet for wildlife watchers and birders. Some of the species you can find while exploring the different sections of this lakeside park include Canada geese, northern shovelers, blue-winged teals, American wigeons, northern pintails, American black ducks, ring-necked pheasants, and common nighthawks.
2. Patuxent Research Refuge
Home to over 270 different bird species, Patuxent Research Refuge is a well-known destination for birding near Owings Mills. Created in 1936 and featuring wetlands, forests, and meadows, this place is managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service with the objective of preserving the biological diversity of the region and providing habitat to native and migratory birds.
Encompassing an area of nearly 13,000 acres, Patuxent Research Refuge is located about 35 miles south of the Owing Mills city center, making it possible to reach it in just 45 minutes via route I-695. This nature reserve is home to large populations of mourning doves, wild turkeys, wood ducks, mallards, blue-wing teals, ring-necked pheasants, and prairie warblers.
3. Red Rock Wilderness Overlook Regional Park
Located about 75 miles west of downtown Owing Mills, Red Rock Wilderness Overlook Regional Park is another well-known spot among birders and wildlife photographers from the region. Featuring winding nature trails, thick wooded areas, and scenic views of the Potomac River, this regional park provides habitat to several bird species including black vultures, turkey vultures, bald eagles, great blue herons, and Canada geese.
Before you hit the road and explore these wonderful birding destinations, visit us at Koons Kia of Owings Mills! Serving our customers with exceptional service and the largest inventory of Kia vehicles in town, we have become the trusted dealership of customers from all over Maryland.
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When the sun is shining, and the water looks good, it’s time to dust off the boat. In Owings Mills, MD, we are fortunate to have several places to launch your boat or rent one for the day and get out on the water. These are our top picks.
Mariner Point Park
Just 42 miles to the east is Mariner Point Park. It’s a 37.7-acre waterfront park on a peninsula between the Taylors and Foster Branch Creeks. The park has facilities for soft launches and four concrete ramps that allow boats over 16′ into the Gunpowder River.
If you enjoy a whitewater experience, you can launch your canoe or kayak on the river and take it downstream of US Route 1. When the water is high enough, you can have a class 3 experience, with a 3 – 5 foot drop and rapids that require considerable movement to navigate. Mariner is located at 100 Kearney Drive, Joppa.
Susquehanna State Park
Susquehanna is located along the Susquehanna River valley. From its position on the river, you have direct access to the headwaters of the Chesapeake Bay. There are two concrete launching ramps at the Lapidum Boat Facility that can take trailer launching of boats up to 15′. You can also launch your canoe or kayak from there.
The Park Service charges $10 per day for boat launching. If you become a frequent visitor, as we’re sure you will, you can buy an Annual State Park and Trail Passport that allows you free launches year-round and a 10% discount at state-run concessions and boat rentals. The park’s entrance can be found at 4122 Wilkinson Road, Havre de Grace.
Gifford Pinchot State Park
Further north, if you cross the state lines into Pennsylvania, you’ll find the beautiful Pinchot Lake in Gifford Pinchot State Park. This 340-acre lake has three concrete launch sites and even 286 storage spaces for day sailors, catamarans, and smaller craft-like kayaks. They only allow electric motors on the lake, but you can rent one if you need to from the boat concession onsite.
You’ll need to display a current boat registration on your craft at all times, and non-powered boats also require a state launch permit. This park’s entrance is at 2200 Rosstown Road, Lewisberry, PA.
Your 2022 Kia Sorento SX has more than enough space and power to take you, your family, and the boat out for a day on the water. Its turbocharged engine can haul 3,500 lbs. with ease, and the seven-seater capacity allows the whole family to travel comfortably. Regular servicing is important to keep your Kia in perfect condition. Book your service today at Koons Kia of Owings Mills.
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Everyone can agree that one of the greatest things about living in Owings Mills, MD is that you are never far away from some great food. An inflow of international chefs has brought cuisines from all corners of the globe to our town, including tons of exotic Asian restaurants. If you’re heading out in town this weekend and are looking for some delicious Asian grub then here are a few of our recommendations.
Fortune China
You can’t go wrong with Chinese food. Such a massive country has resulted in a lot of different cuisines, and that’s reflected in Fortune China’s menu. Dishes range from the simplistic chow mein to the spicy yet tangy kung pao chicken. The chefs here balance flavors perfectly to create dishes that you’ll never forget. In fact, you’ll definitely be coming back for more!
Sushi Ya Japanese Restaurant
Over the last few decades, sushi has made its way into almost every American town, and almost every American’s heart. The fine art of sushi demands intense skill and years of training, and sushi chefs are now as revered as their French counterparts when it comes to high-end food.
Sushi Ya is the best spot in the area for fresh sushi and sashimi, but it doesn’t stop there, as the huge menu also includes tons of other Japanese classics such as teriyaki chicken, soft shell crabs, and shrimp tempura.
Taj Palace
If you love Indian food then you’ve probably already heard of Taj Palace. Owings Mills’ most popular Indian restaurant has been reliably serving the area for years and they have an excellent reputation among the locals. Every dish on the diverse menu is cooked authentically using traditional Indian spices and cooking techniques.
On top of the delicious daily menu, Taj Palace also offers an excellent all-you-can-eat Sunday lunch buffet where you can try a variety of dishes from the menu. This is perfect for those who want to try something new without ordering it as an entire meal. To make the most of this lunch buffet, load up all your family into your new 7-seater Kia Sorrento and bring everyone along to really get your money’s worth.
With all these excellent spots for Asian food near Owings Mills, it’s never been easier to try something new and exotic. Whether you’re a fan of intricate sushi rolls or aromatic Indian curries, you’re sure to find your new favorite spot from this list. We’d love to hear which of these places you liked the most, so swing by Koons Kia of Owings Mills afterward and you can also check out our showroom of excellent new and used cars.
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Many drivers fear engine problems, as they see them as expensive. Most problems, however, can be quickly and affordably repaired. The key to any repair is identifying the problem when it first appears. This prevents the problem from becoming more serious and causing additional damage. As your Kia dealer, we can fix any engine problem for you. These are some examples of problems that could appear.
Colored Exhaust Smoke
Your exhaust smoke should be thin and almost invisible. If your engine is producing this type of exhaust smoke then all is well. Should you notice blue, black, or thick white smoke from the tailpipe, your engine has a problem. The different colors might look good, but they reveal problems inside your engine that need to be fixed.
Blue smoke is due to oil leaking into the exhaust system. This leak could be from worn seals or gaskets or a leak from the head gasket. Black smoke can mean your catalytic converter isn’t removing dangerous chemicals, or your engine is running fuel-rich and wasting gas. Finally, thick white smoke means coolant is leaking into your exhaust system. Our expert technicians can fix any of these issues.
Blocked Catalytic Converter
The catalytic converter is designed to remove dangerous chemicals from the exhaust smoke. This lowers airborne pollution and allows your engine to operate more efficiently. The converter used a mixture of high temperature, pressure, and chemical reactions to convert toxic engine chemicals. Some of the byproducts of this conversion can build up in your converter and create a blockage.
A blockage in the converter prevents the exhaust fumes from leaving your car. This focuses them back into your engine, which disrupts the combustion process. Combustion will become more difficult due to the presence of these waste products, and you may experience stalling, misfiring, and other engine issues. We can clear the blockage, and your converter will work efficiently again.
Starting Issues
When you push the button, your car’s battery sends an electrical charge to your starter. This charge powers the starter, which initiates the crank, and your engine will turn over. If your Kia won’t start, you could have a problem with the battery, the alternator, or the starter. Any of these components can make starting difficult or even impossible.
A bad battery, for example, may not have enough charge to power the starter motor. A worn alternator may not be able to supply enough power to charge the battery sufficiently. Finally, a damaged starter won’t crank your engine. We’ll test all of these components and investigate other possible issues. Once we find the cause, we’ll swiftly repair it.
Call our service department today at Koons Kia of Owings Mills, and we’ll make that engine problem disappear.
Located a little under 20 miles northwest of the Baltimore city center, Owings Mills, MD is a relatively small town with plenty of nearby landmarks you can explore on a weekend or a day off work. Whether you want to check out some interesting museums or take your new 2023 Kia Sportage on an offroad adventure, here are three fantastic destinations you should visit while traveling around the area.
1. Liberty Reservoir
Commonly referred to as Liberty Lake, Liberty Reservoir is a popular natural landmark that welcomes thousands of visitors every year from Owings Mills, Baltimore, and other nearby towns and cities. Encompassing an area of over 3,000 acres, this body of water sits in the heart of a public recreation area that offers a vast array of activities including boating, hiking, biking, fishing, and wildlife watching.
Liberty Reservoir is located just 10 miles west of Owings Mills and can be reached in less than 20 minutes by car via route MD-26 and Liberty Road. Fed by the Patapsco River, this reservoir was constructed in the 1950s and is owned and managed by the City of Baltimore Department of Public Works.
2. Baltimore’s Inner Harbor
If you are looking for a place where you can spend an entire day exploring historical monuments, visiting museums, and trying some of the best food in the region, the Inner Harbor neighborhood in downtown Baltimore is a place you should not miss. Welcoming over 13 million visitors each year, this historic seaport is one of the city’s main attractions.
The Inner Harbor district of Baltimore is located just 20 miles southeast of downtown Owings Mills and can be reached in less than 25 minutes via route I-695. Once you make your way here, one of the first things you should do is go for a walk along the Baltimore Waterfront Promenade. This pedestrian trail passes by important attractions including the Maryland Science Center, the National Aquarium, and the Seven Foot Knoll Lighthouse.
3. Hampton National Historic Site
Located about 12 miles east of Owings Mills, Hampton National Historic Site is a preserved 18th-century plantation where you can learn more about the history of the region while visiting one of its best-preserved estates. Featuring sprawling gardens, a Georgian manor house, and original stone slave quarters, this historic site is a fantastic destination for a day trip.
Whether you are searching for a new or used Kia vehicle, we’ve got you covered! Visit us today at Koons Kia of Owings Mills, talk to our friendly staff, and schedule a test drive of your favorite model. Proudly serving our customers with exceptional service and an expansive inventory, we stand as one of Maryland’s most trusted Kia dealerships.
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When you turn on your AC after months without using it, the last thing you want is a malfunctioning AC. Your Kia dealership in Owings Mills, MD, can help you with an AC not working. These are some of the issues we can fix.
Electrical Problems
The AC depends on electricity like most of the systems in your Kia. The condenser, compressor, and other components may be in good condition. The problem could be among the many switches and relays that control the AC electrical supply. Your AC has four switches, the high and low-pressure cut-off switches, the throttle switch, and the power steering switch. If one of these fails, the AC won’t work.
The compressor clutch is another electrical system that can prevent the AC from working. When you turn on the AC, you’ll hear a click. This is the sound of the compressor clutch activating. The clutch can wear out, and your car will receive cool but not cold air. Our technicians will examine the electrical system and fix the cause of the problem.
Wet Floor
Water on the passenger carpet can be a sign of an AC problem. The evaporator coil and its overflow tank are positioned in front of the passenger seat section. The evaporator controls the temperature of your AC. The evaporator can be slightly damp, and the tank contains water. These two conditions make the evaporator a great place for bacteria to thrive.
In winter, when your AC isn’t in use, bacteria can multiply in the evaporator. Their colonies will spread out, and they can block the drain tube that drains water from the AC out of your car. If this happens, water will build up in the tank and eventually overflow. The water will drip onto the carpet on the passenger side of the cabin. We can clean the evaporator and use an antibacterial solution to prevent the bacteria from returning.
Damaged Cooling Fan
Your AC has a cooling system of its own, and it’s attached to the condenser. The condenser converts refrigerant gas into a liquid, and the process generates heat. Your condenser can get very hot during the conversion process, and the fan switches on to cool it. If the fan fails, your condenser could overheat.
The first sign of an overheating condenser is a burning smell when you turn on the AC. If you smell this, we advise switching off your AC right away. If you continue to use the AC, the condenser can burn out. We can replace the fan to fix this problem.
An AC problem doesn’t have to spoil your day. Call us at Koons Kia of Owings Mills, and we’ll repair it.
Summertime is a great time to get out and enjoy the weather. If you’re looking for something fun to do near Owings Mills, MD, we’ve got you covered! Here are four summertime activities that are within driving distance of our area.
1. Soldiers Delight Natural Environment Area
Soldiers Delight Natural Environment Area is located in Owings Mills and is a great summer spot for those who love the outdoors. This 1,900-acre park consists of rolling hills, streams, and woodlands and is home to a diverse array of plant and animal life.
Visitors can hike along one of the many trails, go birdwatching, or take photographs. No matter what you want to learn, the Soldiers Delight Natural Environment Area is the perfect place to spend a summer day.
2. American Visionary Art Museum
The American Visionary Art Museum is another great place to spend a summer day. The museum is dedicated to displaying the work of self-taught artists. As a result, it features a wide range of artwork, from paintings and sculptures to strange and unusual works.
The museum also hosts various events throughout the year, making it a great place to visit for art lovers and those looking for something different. So if you’re looking for a fun summer activity near Owings Mills, check out the American Visionary Art Museum.
3. Oregon Ridge Park
With over 1000 acres of forest to explore and miles of hiking and biking trails, it’s the perfect place to escape the city’s crowds and enjoy the outdoors. The park also features a playground, picnic pavilions, and a wide variety of events throughout the summer months. Oregon Ridge Park is sure to please you whether you’re looking for a relaxing day in nature or an adventurous hike.
4. Port Discovery Children’s Museum
Hands-on exhibits and educational programs make it the perfect place to take your kids for a day of learning and fun. The museum is accessible by car and metro. And with three floors of interactive exhibits, there’s something for everyone.
Additionally, there is a diner on-site for when you need to refuel. Plus, there’s plenty of space to run around and explore. A trip to the museum may be for a rainy summer day activity or a way to beat the heat. No matter the reason, your kids will have a blast.
The all-new Kia Rio has many safety features that ensure a smooth and enjoyable ride. With a rear-view camera, you can avoid obstacles and clearly see what’s behind you. The emergency brake assist will help you stop quickly and safely in case of an unexpected situation. Stop by Koons Kia of Owings Mills to test drive this impressive car.
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Warranties include 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain and 5-year/60,000-mile basic. All warranties and roadside assistance are limited. See retailer for warranty details.