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If you live in an area that suffers from winter weather hazards, such as Waukegan, IL, you may want to consider investing in a set of winter tires. Also referred to as snow tires, winter tires can provide you with a plethora of benefits during the cold season. Classic Kia is your number one source for snow tires at our Kia service department and wants to provide you with some additional information on these winter must-haves for your car. Advantages of Winter Tires Driving on icy roads can be dangerous. You need to arm yourself with tires that can tackle ice, sleet, and snow. Here are some advantages of winter tires: The tread design and tread compounds are manufactured to perform specifically for cold weather conditions, providing you with better traction. The biting edges also provide better grip on winter roads. Installing winter tires will extend the life of your summer or all season tires. They provide better braking capabilities on cold snow, ice, or slush covered roads. Why You Should Purchase Snow Tires To maintain optimum safety in your vehicle, it’s best to purchase winter tires in a set of four as oppose to only replacing one or two at a time. This is true for all vehicle drive types, including front wheel, all wheel, and rear wheel. Classic Kia can equip your car with the proper type of winter tires before the ice and snow hit. Call our parts and service department today at 844-921-2839 or visit our dealership located at 425 North Green Bay Road today to get an upgrade.

Winter is fast approaching and many Waukegan drivers are wondering if they should invest in winter or all season tires. To understand what tires you will need for your Kia vehicle, you must first understand the difference between winter and all season tires. Every person’s needs are different depending on driving habits and road conditions. Classic Kia is here to break down the difference. And of course, if you have any further questions, our qualified Kia service and parts department will be happy to answer them. Winter Tires When it comes to slippery winter weather conditions, having the right type of tires really matters. There are specific features that make winter tires unique, including the tread depth and pattern, biting edges, and tread rubber. The tread rubber of winter tires are designed to remain flexible, enabling them to grip the road better. The tread depth and pattern are deeper than regular tires, which reduces snow buildup. Winter tires also have a higher number of biting edges that provides better traction on the road. All Season Tires Your Kia car may already be outfitted with all season tires when it leaves the factory. These types of tires are engineered to perform great in all weather conditions, and to carry you seamlessly from winter through summer. However, in extreme weather conditions, such as heavy snow or ice, all season tires are not the ideal. They are much better for drivers who live in moderate climates and do not experience extreme snow and ice during the winter. Classic Kia can outfit your car with either of these tire options and will address any concerns you may have. Stop by our Illinois dealership today!

One of the most important, and most overlooked, car maintenance tips for ensuring your engine stays in good shape is getting your oil changed. Typically, you can get away with changing your oil every 4,000 to 6,000 miles on new Kia models, and you can even go with the extended-range oils for 10,000 miles. However, just in case, it’s good to always stick to a schedule and watch for symptoms that your oil needs changing. Here are three signs Waukegan drivers should watch out for from Classic Kia. The Oil Appears to be Gritty and Black This is one sign you need to train your eye to see. The original hue of your oil is honey brown, and that will swiftly darken after a couple of weeks of use. Once you notice particles mixed in with black oil, it’s time for a tune-up. Loud Engines Unless you drive a sports car, your engine should rumble at a pretty predictable sound level. Without the proper oil lubrication, the guts of your engine will start to grind and rub against each other, creating some pretty unpleasant noises from under the hood. That’s when it’s time to call Classic Kia’s service station at 844-921-2839. Your Check Engine Light Won’t Turn Off Many new Kia cars have their own oil gauge. It’s the light that looks like a little genie lamp. If this is on for a long period of time, it’s a pretty significant indicator that you need to get your oil changed. Classic Kia is always glad to lend a helping hand. Come in today to get the oil change and tune-up your Kia needs to stay safe and sound on the road!

For over 25 years, the Classic Auto Group family has been offering superb new and certified pre-owned vehicles to the drivers of Waukegan, IL and the surrounding areas. Classic Kia is proud to stock innovative cars boasting the latest safety features, such as the all-new 2017 Kia Sedona, which was just awarded the lauded 2016 Top Safety Pick by The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Already a show stopper due to its elegant design, the 2017 Kia Sedona now features available autonomous emergency braking, a system that helps to avoid forward crashes by warning you of an impending forward collision and then automatically applying the brakes if no action is taken. On top of that, the 2017 Kia Sedona also offers an advanced driver assisted system, blind spot detection with rear cross traffic alert, lane departure warning, dynamic bending lights, smart cruise control, a UVO3 e-System with added smart phone connectivity, available front and rear park assist, a rear camera, leather trim, and smart key entry. This amazing award is even more impressive due to the rigorous new testing standards put in place by The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety this year. In order to achieve this rating, vehicles must earn “good” ratings in five crash-worthiness tests, including small overlap front, moderate overlap front, side impact, roof strength and head restraints. They must also achieve an “advanced” or “superior” rating for front crash prevention. The addition of AEB lifts the minivan's front crash prevention rating from “basic” to “superior.” If you want to take this award-winning vehicle on a test-drive for yourself, simply call Classic Kia today at 844-921-2809. We look forward to hearing from you!

If you’re a car owner, there are plenty of things that you should keep on top of to ensure that your vehicle runs efficiently and safely for longer. But did you also know that quite a few car maintenance “facts” are actually false? Here are three car maintenance myths debunked by the automotive experts at Classic Kia. Myth #1: You Should Change Your Engine Oil Every 3,000 Miles It’s important to have the proper amount of clean oil in your engine to keep it lubricated and running correctly. But while many mechanics recommend that you should get your oil changed every 3,000 miles, it doesn’t have to be changed nearly as often. Under normal driving conditions, many vehicles can go up to 7,500 miles between oil changes. However, if you are due for a tune-up, bring your car to Classic Kia’s on-site Kia service center. Myth #2: Your AC Could be Harming Your Fuel Economy False. Many folks are under the impression that running their vehicle’s air conditioning uses up more fuel than simply rolling down the windows. This is hardly the case. In recent studies and tests, results have found just a slight decrease in fuel economy and almost no difference if you’re driving with your windows open. So on those hot summer days, don’t feel guilty about blasting your AC. Myth #3: Let Your Car Warm Up Before Driving in Cold Weather Busted! This outdated advice can actually harm your car, especially during the crisp winter days. The best way to warm up your vehicle is to simply start driving it. Additionally, the sooner your engine gets warm, the sooner it’s able to deliver the best performance possible. Despite these myths, it’s important to keep abreast of your vehicle’s maintenance. Give Classic Kia a call today at 844-921-2839 to schedule your service appointment today!

Illinois winters can be brutal. Not only for you, but for your car. Cold temperatures can make it more difficult for your engine to work properly and snow, ice, and sleet can wreak havoc on your tires. Now that it’s fall, Classic Kia wants you to get your vehicle ready for the winter. Here is everything you need to know about your Kia vehicle and the cold days ahead. Consider Snow Tires If you have a long commute to work or are planning to visit friends and family this holiday season, the road ahead may not be a smooth one. Consider upgrading to snow tires to improve your grip on snowy highways and icy back roads. While a Kia car is more than capable of handling any type of weather thrown its way, help your car out a little with all-weather tires and treads. Ensure Your Four Wheel Drive System is Working Properly One of the biggest selling points of SUVs and crossovers is their powerful four wheel drive system, which greatly improves traction in slippery conditions. While most people don’t utilize their 4WD in the summer, it is necessary for cold and icy weather conditions. Make an appointment at our Kia service center to guarantee your four wheel drive is working properly. Check Your Battery Your battery will give you little notice before it dies, and they love to expire at the worst possible time.  Extremely cold temperatures can reduce your car’s battery power by up to 50 percent. If your battery is over three years old, have it tested now at Classic Kia’s certified service center. You want to guarantee your battery is winter-ready. To ensure that your 2016 Kia Soul is ready for wintery roads, follow the aforementioned advice. Classic Kia can give you the scoop about how to get your car ready for winter and everything you need to know about how to ensure that it’s safe.

When the beautiful and sunny days of summer give way to falling leaves, it can prevent some serious driving hazards for commuters. In the autumn, weather conditions can be unpredictable. A typical gorgeous afternoon can turn to rain and thunder in minutes. Here are a couple of fall driving tips from the good folks at Classic Kia to keep our Waukegan, IL customers safe. Never Brake on Leaves When driving, wet leaves can be as slippery as ice. If you notice them, drive slowly over them and avoid hard braking. Leaves can also obscure lane lines and additional road markers, so always pay close attention when driving in leafy areas. Avoid Sun Glare Near the autumn equinox in late September, the first 15 to 45 minutes before sunrise and after sunset can be more difficult to drive in because of sun glare. Grab a great pair of sunglasses to block out those pesky UV rays. Back to School Traffic Fall means pencils and teachers for students, which means more cars and buses on the road in the morning and afternoon for you. You need to look out for increased pedestrian activity around schools and for kids getting on and off school buses. Rain The first big autumn downpour can be very dangerous as water can pool on top of the dust and oil that haven’t yet cleared away, making for a very slippery drive. If you want to be safe this fall, drive slowly and carefully. Or get behind the wheel of a 2017 Kia car. Our large inventory promises a vast selection of premium vehicles. Call us today at 844-921-2809 to learn more! We are more than happy to hear from you.

September doesn’t just mean crisp temperatures and back to school. It’s also prime-time season for tailgating at your favorite football team’s home game. At Classic Kia of Waukegan, IL, we are sport fans just like you. In order to have the best tailgating experience, you need to stock up on some essentials. Here are some must-have tailgating necessities to make your car the most enjoyable ride at the game! Get Ready for the Road Unless you’re lucky enough to live in the hometown of your favorite sports team, you may be driving for a bit. The best tailgating car is also the safest one. Oil is the lifeblood of your engine.  Be sure to check your oil levels before you hit the road. Thankfully, our Kia service department makes it easy and offers a plethora of services, including oil changes, tire rotations or changes, and more. Looking Sharp To ensure your car is shining like a star, give it a quick wash before you head out to the game. The Right Gear A tailgate party is nothing without creature comforts. Be sure to stash away mobile folding chairs, a cooler full of your favorite sodas or juices, plenty of snacks and your home team’s jersey. Bonus points if you bring along a couple of exciting games, such as horseshoes or corn hole to keep everyone entertained. Football season is here and that means there is a lot of fun to be had. Get your car rock star ready in order to be the center of attention at any tailgating event. Be sure it is also ready to go with premium oil changes and other services from Classic Kia. Call us today to make an appointment!

The updated 2016 Kia Soul Now that their first day of college is here, it’s time to consider buying your co-ed a used vehicle from Classic Kia. With over 25 years of experience servicing the Waukegan, IL area, Classic Kia is proud to offer top-notch vehicles for college students. Here are some reasons why college students should consider buying a pre-owned car. more Save Money College students will save thousands buying a used 2015 Kia Soul than if they were to buy new. In fact, they will spend about $13,500 less by choosing a used vehicle instead of the average new car. Why? Because new cars lose value as soon as they are driven off of the lot. Reliability We put our certified pre-owned Kia cars through rigorous testing, ensuring each one is in great condition. This means that you can enjoy all of the benefits and dependability of a new car but for a whole lot less. Favorable Financing Rates Pre-owned cars get a lot lower interest rates and terms than new ones. Even if you choose to lease, you will be paying more. Most leases are written for 3-year terms, and include restrictions related to mileage, vehicle maintenance, and condition. Due to these restrictions, college kids must take great care of the car or face expensive fines at the end of the lease. If you are in the market for a used car, come by our Kia dealership. We have tons of pre-owned vehicles that you can take for a test drive. Contact Classic Kia today to learn more about what we have to offer! We look forward to speaking with you!

The new 2016 Kia Soul Buying your first car can be a great source of panic for many. But the dealers at Classic Kia, the most trusted Waukegan, IL Kia dealer in the area, are here to lend a little friendly advice, as well as a helping hand. Our First Time Buyers Program is designed for those with little or no credit who are ready to embark on the purchase of their very first vehicle. Our loan features manageable terms and low rates, and it's a great way to help you start establishing a superb credit history. more We Make it Simple to Get Up to Speed Our Kia finance center experts are ready and willing to help you drive your first new Kia Soul or any other model off of our lot. We understand that planning is important when it comes to buying your first vehicle, and that knowledge is power. Our friendly loan professionals are seasoned lending experts and can easily guide you through many of your auto buying selections. First Time Car Buying Tips Here are some tips for buying your first car. Establish a realistic budget – This figure is based on what you can afford every month. The last thing you want is to be broke from auto loan payments, so establish a budget before you buy. Know what you’re looking for – We make it easy to find the car of your dreams! Our vast online inventory of new and used vehicles is the perfect place to start your search. Take a test-drive – It’s important to know you feel confident behind the wheel. Contact our sales department by calling us to set up a test-drive today! If you’re considering buying your first car, check out our First Time Buyer Program for great rates! We look forward to working with you soon!

The new 2016 KIA Optima Many folks are trying to do their part to make the world a cleaner, more beautiful place. If you’re trying to make the move toward a greener vehicle, look no further than one of the fantastic cars at our Kia dealership! more Kia is investing nearly $10.2 billion in an effort to provide 11 new affordable, reliable, and earth-conscious vehicles to the public by 2020. Now you can drive green without breaking the bank. There are currently several low-impact Kia models available on the market, including the Soul EV and Optima Hybrid. The Soul EV makes having an electric car convenient and easy. Not only can you charge your car at any public charging port, but you can also do it at home or at work. The 2016 Kia Optima Hybrid features an innovative electric traction motor and a lithium power battery that, when combined, boasts maximum fuel efficiency. Kia’s newest hybrid crossover is called the Niro and sports a sleek, compact design including a gorgeous tiger-nose grille and angular headlights. Working similarly to the Optima, the Niro will offer an estimated 50 mpg. With 11 models becoming available over the next four years, everyone with any budget will be able to embrace a more eco-friendly and resourceful lifestyle without having to sacrifice style or comfort. Be sure to check out Classic Kia’s inventory of brand new cars, including the Kia Sorento or Kia Sportage, as well as pre-owned Kia cars! If you are interested in learning more about all of the Kia vehicles Classic Kia offers, give our sales team a call today at 844-921-2809 or visit our Kia dealership located at 425 North Green Bay Road. We look forward to meeting you and showing you why our Kia cars are the most fuel-efficient and eco-friendly cars available!

There's so much to rave about when it comes to the 2017 Kia Sorento. This crossover SUV offers exciting new features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, but while we're happy to see high-tech entertainment, we know our customers' primary concern is safety. Amidst higher and higher safety standards, Classic Kia is thrilled to see this car stepping up the task. more The best-selling CUV in America earned the highest rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety -- Top Safety Pick Plus+ -- when equipped with an optional front-crash prevention package. This means it received "Good" ratings in five different categories as well as a "Superior" score under crash avoidance and mitigation. "These results are a clear indication that Kia places a high priority on safety by offering advanced crash avoidance technologies and enhancing vehicle structure through the use of advanced high-strength steel," said Orth Hedrick, vice president, product planning, KMA. "We are proud that the Sorento received strong ratings across the board, and having earned the prestigious TSP+ award bolsters our strong safety record and the integrity of our products." Across five trims, there many options to customize the 2017 Kia Sorento. When it comes to safety, one useful tool is the rearview camera, which comes standard on all trims. It's really worth it to go for a blind spot monitor to help change lanes and a rear cross-traffic alert, and lane departure alert. Perhaps the most important is the forward collision mitigation system, which includes Automatic Emergency Braking. In addition to those, Rear Parking Sensors and Uvo eServices can aid the driver with geo-fencing and a speed alert. There's a large assortment of advanced safety systems in the all-new 2017 Kia Sportage. The Top Safety Pick+ distinction from the IIHS makes us all the more confident about the reliability of this family CUV. Learn more about what this car can do by visiting our Kia car dealership near Gurnee, IL.