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The windshield wipers on your vehicle are essential. They clear your windshield of rain, snow, dust, and other debris so that you can see. Just like the brakes on your car, your wipers will need to be replaced regularly. The lifespan of your wiper blades will vary with quality, brand, and weather conditions. Usually, windshield wiper blades need to be replaced every six to twelve months. The professionals at your Kia dealer can change them for you. Signs That You Should Replace Your Windshield Wipers at Your Kia Dealer Scratching One of the most noticeable signs that you need to replace your windshield wiper blades is when they are scratching your windshield. When the spongy replaceable blades on your wipers become worn down or damaged, you may hear the metal scraping on the glass when the wipers are turned on. As soon as you notice this sound, you need to replace the wiper blades to prevent damage to your windshield. more Skipping When your wiper blades are used infrequently, the blades can become brittle and wear out. This causes them to "skip" across your windshield. These blades need to be replaced as soon as possible. The skipping motion doesn't allow the blades to clear off your windshield and causes an obstructed view of the road ahead. Change the wiper blades to ensure you continue to drive safely. Dirty Windshields The windshield wiper blades are responsible for keeping your windshield clean. If you are driving your 2023 Kia and have mud splashed on the windshield or run through a cloud of bugs, you need to clean the windshield so you can see. However, if you use your windshield washer fluid and the blades are just creating a smeary mess, you know that they need to be replaced. Bent Wipers Many things can bend or damage the metal portion of your wipers, including ice in the wintertime. When the frames of your wiper blades are bent, they will not be able to contact the windshield correctly. This means that even with brand-new blades, the wipers will not be able to clean the windshield as they need to. Your local car dealership will be able to get the frames replaced so that the blades can contact your windshield. Seasonal Blades Another reason you may want to change your wiper blades is the change of seasons. Ice and snow can damage regular wiper blades easily. Many manufacturers have designed winter blades engineered to withstand colder temperatures and the icy conditions created in the winter. Windshield Wiper Replacement in Maryland at Our Kia Dealership When taking care of the windshield wiper blades on your car, don't forget to check the rear wiper blades regularly as well. Have you noticed signs that you could use a wiper blade replacement? Come see us at DARCARS Kia of Frederick, and let us get you set up for the winter season with new wiper blades today to ensure that you are driving with top visibility.

The 2023 Kia Soul is a crossover SUV and the smallest SUV offered in the 2023 Kia lineup. It seats five people and offers drivers options when hauling cargo or luggage. Fun and functionality define the Soul with its bold, new exterior and amazing technology. Drivers looking for a fuel efficient, versatile SUV, whether for everyday driving or taking long drives and vacations, will love the Soul. 2023 Kia Soul Top Features 1. Fuel Efficient Engine The engine is a 2.0-liter, multi-port injection, 4-cylinder with 147 horsepower. An Intelligent Variable Transmission ensures a smooth ride while the motor-driven, power steering helps with performance and handling. Idle stop-and-go help with fuel economy, and drivers will appreciate the Drive Mode Select as it offers flexibility in handling. Drivers can expect 29 miles in the city and 35 miles on the highway. more 2. Sleek Exterior Color makes the Soul attention-getting with colors like Inferno Red, Mars Orange, and Neptune Blue. Two-tone options like Clear White/Fusion Black and Surf Blue/Fusion Black are available for those who want a more custom look. The 16-inch sport alloy wheels round out the offering with an option to choose 18-inch wheels. 3. Amazing Interior Ample passenger and cargo space define the interior of the Soul. It packs a massive amount of space for your passengers, where there is 101 cubic feet of passenger room available for an impressively comfortable ride wherever your adventures take you. Designed to provide top-notch comfort, the 2023 Kia Soul also offers 60/40 split rear seats and a large tailgate to accommodate over 62 cubic feet of cargo space. Passengers will also find the seats to have a premium touch in style and comfort. Black Trico Cloth is standard, but drivers may choose from five other options including Black SynTex and Cloth. 4. Infotainment The standard infotainment system includes an 8-inch touchscreen for the AM/FM/MP3 that includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A 10.25-inch touchscreen upgrade with navigation is available if you want to push the tech in your Kia further. Superior sound is available with the Harman Kardon Premium Audio System option. Kia Connect allows drivers to connect to the system for hands-free calls and messaging, and access to a driver's favorite apps. 5. Safety Drivers will appreciate the extensive safety features available with the Soul. Regardless of trim, the safety features are the same and include dual front advanced airbags, rollover system, and an anti-lock brake system. An electronic parking brake, lower anchors and tethers for children, and electronic stability control are some of the other features included. Shop for a New 2023 Kia Soul for Sale in Maryland The Kia Soul has been a popular choice for a reason, and for 2023, there are many exciting features to look forward to with the vehicle. Quality and reliability define this compact SUV, and it has plenty of features to allow drivers to customize their Kia the way they want. To take a test drive, come visit us at DARCARS Kia of Frederick and find your 2023 Kia Soul.

If your Kia car isn't starting, the starter motor could be a problem. How can you tell that it’s the starter in your vehicle? Here are some signs that your starting motor might need to be replaced. If you notice any of these signs, take your car to a Kia dealer and have them examine it. Grinding Noise The ignition system supplies the initial power required to start your engine. When it fails, the gears inside the motor can become misaligned, causing them to grind against each other, resulting in weird noises. In some cases, the engine may still be able to start, but the starter will need to be replaced immediately to avoid further damage. Don't disregard your car's grinding sound when you try to start it! Head to your local dealer and have them take a look. more Smoke Smoke from the engine compartment is among the most typical indications that the motor is failing. The smoke is usually caused by an accumulation of heat and friction within the starting motor. Sometimes there is a burning smell, and you can detect some flames along with the smoke. It's crucial to get the starting motor inspected by a qualified mechanic immediately as soon as you notice any of these symptoms. Ignoring the issue could cause the engine severe harm. Free Wheeling You expect the car's engine to start when you turn the key in the ignition. Your starter engine may be dying if you hear a harsh grinding sound instead of the expected purr. Free-wheeling is a tell-tale sign of a failed starting motor. When the starter engine fails, it can no longer engage the flywheel to turn over the engine. As a result, the engine will continue to spin even after the key is turned off. This can cause the car to roll away if it's not in park. Free-wheeling can also damage the starter engine by overheating it. If you notice your car's free-wheeling, be sure to have it towed to a mechanic so they can diagnose and repair the problem. Engine Turns Over Slowly Have you ever started your vehicle and noticed the engine cranks slowly? If so, your starter engine is likely faulty. The starting motor supplies the initial power required to start the engine; if it malfunctions, the engine will have difficulty turning over. The starting motor may even fail in some circumstances, leaving you stranded on the road. If you're having trouble with a slow-starting engine, then it's worth getting your starting motor checked by a professional. Need to Get Your Kia in Frederick, MD Looked At? If you are experiencing any of the symptoms we've talked about in this post, it might be time to have your starter checked. Our team is more than happy to take a look and fix whatever might be wrong. Contact us at DARCARS Kia of Frederick today for all your automotive needs! Check out more of our blog to get information about electric problems in cars and much more.

Due to their increased safety and efficiency, traffic circles and roundabouts are becoming more and more popular all across the United States. They are safer due to the fact that they tend to eliminate right-angle collisions, and they are more efficient since traffic never has to come to a standstill. However, it can still be tricky to navigate them if you've never encountered them before. So, follow these tips from your Kia dealer to make it easy and stress-free! How Do Roundabouts Work? 1. Stay Away from Distractions One key difference between these intersections and traditional intersections is that there are a lot of moving parts and you never come to a complete stop. This means that you won't have an opportunity to change the radio station or check a text without taking your eyes off the road. So, to make sure you merge into the circle safely, you need to always be looking around you and be aware of oncoming traffic. Keep your phone in your pocket. more 2. Pay Attention to the Signage These alternative kinds of intersections, since they are not as straightforward at first, usually include additional signage to make things clearer for drivers. Many times, there will be signs at the beginning of the circle, on its sides, and at each exit. It's important to pay attention to these signs carefully so that you'll know which lane to take for your exit. This will make your merges much easier and smoother. 3. Never Assume Other Drivers See You While we'd like to believe that other drivers are just as attentive as we are, that is unfortunately not always the case. Just like when you get the green light at a traditional intersection, you still always need to drive defensively. In circles, it's expected for traffic entering the circle to yield to vehicles already in the circle. But some drivers may not know this and might cut you off while you're passing through. While the collision will likely not be as dangerous if this happens to you as it would be if it were a t-bone collision, it's still something you want to avoid. So, while you're in the circle keep an eye out for any cars that look like they're going to speed into the circle and be ready for them. With just a quick tap of the brakes, you'll likely be able to avoid collisions altogether. 4. Tune Your Vehicle at a Kia Dealer One way you can make circle intersections more comfortable is by having your suspension tuned to be able to handle turns easily. In addition, you'll want your brakes to be serviced well to be able to avoid those speedy drivers! Travel Confidently Around Roundabouts in Maryland in a New Kia Are you ready to confidently take on roundabouts and traffic circles? Want to do so in a new Kia car or Kia SUV model? Come in to DARCARS Kia of Frederick to get your car and experience an excellent time buying your next vehicle.

If you drive a car, it's almost guaranteed that you will experience a flat tire at least once in your lifetime or that wear and tear will make it so you will need to replace your Kia tires. However, changing a tire can be daunting unless you have done it before. Thankfully, with the right tools, you can change the tire quickly and easily. If all else fails, the professionals at your Kia dealer can get it done for you. How To Change a Tire Tips The next time you and the family are out in your Kia car or SUV and the tire goes flat, your first step is to find a stable, safe location where you can change the flat. Avoid soft ground, put on your hazard lights, and then make sure your wheels have blocks or rocks behind them if you are on a hill. Next, place your car in park and engage the parking brake for safety. more Get Out the Tools Once you have the car in a safe area, you need to locate all of your tools and the spare tire. You will need a jack, a wrench, and a spare tire. Your owner's manual will tell you where to place the jack. Modern cars often have a notch or mark letting you know where the jack should go. Place the jack on one of the heavy beams of the frame on an older vehicle. Take It Apart After you raise the car so that it rests on the jack but is not off the ground, you should remove the hubcap. Once the hubcap is out of the way, turn the lug nuts counterclockwise. Break the resistance on the lug nuts, then lift the vehicle off the ground so the tire is clear. Now that the lug nuts are slightly loose and the tire is off the ground, you can quickly remove all of the lug nuts and the flat tire. Secure the Spare With the flat tire out of the way, lift the spare tire and slip it onto the bolts. Ensure the valve stem is facing outward, away from the vehicle, so you don't put the spare on backward. Next, put the lug nuts back on, taking care not to cross-thread them, and put them on in an alternating pattern. Tighten the lug nuts by hand, lower the car till the wheel touches the ground, and tighten them. Last, replace the hubcap and put the spare in the trunk with your tools. Visit Your Kia Dealer in Maryland The last step to changing your flat is to get the vehicle into a tire shop. Your local dealership will have professionals equipped to repair or replace the tire you bring in, balance your wheels, and get you back out on the road. If your vehicle needs maintenance or a tire rotation, don't delay. Contact us at DARCARS Kia of Frederick to schedule an appointment with the professionals in our service center today. We can inspect the tires and get you new tires to get you back on the road before you know it.

Passing your permit test is an essential part of getting yourself on the road. Unfortunately, many applicants fail to complete their test on the first try. As your local Frederick Kia dealer, the team at DARCARS Kia of Frederick is very familiar with what it takes to pass the test and is happy to grant would-be motorists a head start toward passing their test with flying colors. 1. Take Notes The first tip to ensure you pass the test is to take thorough notes. Studying for the test is an essential requirement for increasing the likelihood of passing the test. It can be tempting to skim through the study material. However, doing so dramatically increases the likelihood of you missing out on important information that may be asked during the test and increases your chances of failure. more Furthermore, it's not enough to simply read the study material. You should also take note of key information and facts that will likely appear on the test. One thing to look out for is the mention of specific numbers and statistics. If a number or statistic is mentioned in the study material, there is a strong possibility of the number or statistic being on the test. 2. Take Practice Tests After you've finished going over the study material for the test, it can be tempting to call it a day. Unfortunately, there are numerous opportunities that you miss out on by doing so. One such opportunity is practice tests. For that reason, the next tip for ensuring that you pass the test and receive your permit is to take study tests. These tests do a better job of simulating a test environment than simply going over your notes. In addition, there may be important things that you neglected to consider for your notes. Practice tests are often filled with real questions that may be used on the test, enabling you to anticipate test questions. It is important to take multiple different tests to gain an understanding of a wide array of questions and take each test until you can consistently pass it. Because these tests are free, you can take them as many times as you want. 3. Enlist Help The final tip for ensuring that you pass your test is to enlist the help of any friends or family that you know will be taking the test as well. Having someone to study with often makes studying a much less stressful experience. Additionally, you can quiz one another, share notes, and do similar activities, helping you both maximize your chances of passing the test. Visit Your Favorite Kia Dealer in Frederick, MD If you're seeking a permit, you'll no doubt want to have a look around your local marketplace and see what vehicles are on offer. The best way to do so is by researching car dealerships in your area and seeing what works for you. There's no doubt that permit exams can be stressful. However, by studying the right way, you can dramatically increase your chances of passing and receiving your permit. After you've aced the exam, visit our showroom at DARCARS Kia of Frederick and see what we have in stock!

If you recently purchased a car or moved to a new state, it is a good idea to know the car emissions requirements for testing and inspections. If you bought your car from a Kia dealer, your local dealership will be able to provide you with all this information. Does your vehicle need an emissions test? When should get one? Where can you get an emissions test? Here's a look at emissions testing to help you understand it better. Vehicle Emissions Inspection Program In 14 counties in Maryland, all registered vehicles, except those exempt from the Vehicle Emissions Inspection Program (VEIP), are required to undergo scheduled emissions checks every two years. You will know when your vehicle needs an emission inspection because you will be notified 11 weeks in advance by email or 6-8 weeks in advance by US mail. more Should I Get an Emissions Test? Included Maryland Counties The counties included in Vehicle Emissions Inspection Program are: Anne Arundel County Baltimore City Baltimore County Calvert County Carroll County Cecil County Charles County Frederick County Harford County Howard County Montgomery County Prince George's County Queen Anne's County Washington County What Is a Car Emissions Check? Emissions tests check the operation of the vehicle's computer and exhaust to ensure that your vehicle is not emitting higher levels of pollutants than what is allowed by law. In Maryland, the three main emissions tests include the gas tank lid, the onboard computer, and the emissions released by the tail pipe. New and Used Vehicles New vehicles registered in one of the 14 counties will be scheduled for testing at least 36 months from the date of registration. Buyers of used cars will receive a notification for inspection within three months of changing the name on the title. Inspection Stations VEIP scheduled emissions inspections can be taken at various inspection stations found throughout Maryland. You can also take your unregistered vehicle to the inspection stations for a voluntary inspection, although the data will not be entered into the VEIP database. Exempt Vehicles Are there vehicles that are exempt from emissions tests? There are a number of vehicles that do not need to pass a regularly scheduled test. The list is rather long but includes diesel-only powered vehicles, motorcycles, and all-electric vehicles. Ask Your Maryland Kia Dealer Have you recently purchased a car? Are you thinking of buying a new vehicle? Do you have further emissions test questions? If you have questions about testing requirements or want to make sure your car meets the emissions standards for your area, you can speak to your local Kia-certified dealership for more information. Whether you need information on an emission check or even if you are looking to buy a new Kia or used vehicle, you can rely on us as your local Kia dealer in the area. Get in touch with DARCARS Kia of Frederick now for all the help you require. We would be happy to assist and get you the information and service you need!

In many parts of the country, you'll have to parallel park as a part of your driver's license test. Parallel parking can be one of the most difficult portions of the exam, so it can help to go in knowing what you're doing. To make things easier, follow these simple steps to make it a walk in the park! How to Parallel Park 1. Choose the Right Spot Not all spaces where you can parallel park are made the same, and this is important to keep in mind when you're driving around looking for one. The space should be at least one and a half times the size of your car in order for you to be able to safely get in. With a bit more experience, you'll be able to park in tighter spaces, but because of how stressful it is, it's not recommended. more This is especially true if you're driving a larger car or a car with limited visibility. But your Kia dealer has cars that feature a rear-facing camera to make parking easier, no matter what space you're trying to get in! 2. Line Up Your Car To get your car into position to successfully perform the maneuver, it helps to line it up with the car in front of the spot you're trying to park in. Drive up slowly until your mirror lines up with its mirror, or until your front wheels are matched up. You should be about a yard from the car, with your wheels straight. 3. Turn Your Wheels Hard This is probably one of the things most drivers get wrong: they don't fully commit to the initial turn. You need to turn your steering wheel as far to the right as it can go, and then slowly back up. If you don't turn your wheel all the way, you might not have enough room to get your car straight later on. So don't be afraid! 4. Straighten Your Wheels at the Right Time While you're reversing, it's possible to back up too far into the spot. To avoid this, keep an eye out for the front of the car parked behind your spot. Looking in your left mirror, stop when the entire front of the car is visible. Then, straighten your wheels and back up until your right mirror is next to the car in front's taillight. 5. Turn Hard Again At this point, you're almost there! Just turn your steering wheel fully to the left and use the Kia's rear-facing camera to bring you into position. You've done it! Parallel Park Confidently in a New or Used Kia If you want a new Kia or a pre-owned vehicle that you can confidently tackle parallel parking in Maryland with, we have plenty of exciting choices at our car dealership. Come check out Kia cars and Kia SUVs with features that make parking easy at DARCARS Kia of Frederick! Want to search all cars for sale at our Kia dealership? Explore new and used vehicles to find the one right for you.

Engine belts are the means by which power is transferred from the engine to the moving parts of a car. They work hard, and they're essential to keeping your car running, so it's important to know when you might need to contact your Kia dealer to get them replaced. By knowing what to look out for, and staying alert to the signs, you'll be aware if your car belt is approaching the end of its life. Discover the signs that your car’s engine belts may need replacing by reading below! How Do I Know Engine Belts Should Get Replaced? 1. Struggling Engine The timing belt synchronizes the crankshaft with the camshafts, ensuring that the engine intake and exhaust valves operate in unison with the pistons. A faulty or damaged belt will lead to unbalanced fuel-air ratios and pressure levels in the combustion chamber, ultimately resulting in poor engine performance. This might mean less engine power, vibrations and shuddering, or difficulty when it comes to starting the car. more 2. Faulty Accessories The serpentine belt takes power to accessories such as the AC unit, the alternator, and the radiator fan. If it stops working efficiently, you might find that your battery drains, the air conditioning stops working, you lose power steering, and the engine overheats. Multiple failures of this sort could be a warning sign that the belt is worn or damaged, and that it's time to book a checkup. 3. Unusual Noises Has your vehicle been making unfamiliar noises? The sounds from your car's engine are most familiar to you, so you're in the best position to pick up on any changes or unfamiliar additions that could indicate faults in the belts. What sounds might you hear? These include high-pitched squealing or chirping noises, or an uneven rumbling instead of a smooth purr when the engine is idling. 4. Damaged Car Belts If you know where to look, you can pop the hood and give the belts a quick visual check to assess their condition. If they show signs of stretching, fraying, cracking, or glazing, it's time to start planning for a replacement. Contact Your Frederick, MD Kia Dealer for Engine Belt Repair Most engine belts are designed to last between 60,000 and 100,000 miles, so they are very durable. If they are faulty, however, then you need to take action to prevent extensive repair. By delaying repairs, it could cause damage to other engine components, such as the cylinder head, valves, pistons, or crankshaft. It might also lead to total engine failure and leave you stranded, so scheduling a prompt replacement could be critical. Timely and expert intervention will ensure that the belts are in good condition and keep your car running for many miles to come. Contact us at DARCARS Kia of Frederick to schedule an inspection and enjoy the peace of mind that comes from knowing that our expert technicians will deliver exceptional service to you and your vehicle. Have electrical problems with your car or experiencing any of these other warning signs? We are here to help!

Traveling is important to many and having a great vehicle to road trip in is essential. Your Kia dealer sees plenty of customers looking for a car or SUV that they can enjoy for traveling. Find out why Kia is ideally suited to your travel needs. Why Buy a Kia? 1. Comfort for Any Conditions When you choose to travel, it often is synonymous with long road trips. So, you want a vehicle that has premium comfort for you and your passengers. You can feel confident with a Kia with available Kia features like dual-zone climate control that'll keep everyone cool and breezy. Kia rides, from sedans to SUVs, also come equipped with ample cabin space for you to stretch out without feeling cramped. The seats themselves are made of fine, comfortable materials. more The Kia Telluride is a great representative in the midsize SUV market. In addition to the aforementioned benefits, this striking SUV offers different drive modes that can help enhance your road trip. Plus, you'll get stacked infotainment systems including massive touchscreens, several USB ports, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. 2. Hefty Hauler Trips, whether they're afternoon picnics or a week-long vacation, usually come with a bounty of cargo. Even smaller hatchbacks like the Rio 5-Door boast plenty of cargo space for your suitcases, coolers, and more. Options such as 60/40 split-folding rear seats up the available area even further. Classy SUVs like the Kia Soul and Kia Sorento offer a generous cubic feet of cargo volume. These SUVs serve up another key benefit as well. There are some SUVs capable of towing thousands of pounds, which makes them perfect for attaching your trailer, boat, or other fixture. As for your precious human cargo, the three-row SUVs can hold up to eight occupants. 3. Efficient and Safe The elements that you can encounter on your road trips can be unforgiving, from rainy downpours to hot temperatures that test your auto's resolve. Luckily for you, Kia has a full roster of driver aid and safety features to keep you alert to imminent danger. These benefits include blind spot monitoring, emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and collision warnings. In addition, take advantage of more unique features like driver drowsiness monitoring. Kia has consistently topped driver dependability rankings, but even if your ride should experience a mishap, you can have peace of mind with the brand's best-in-class 10-year, 100,000-mile warranty. Better yet, you can enjoy those long trips without breaking the bank by taking advantage of equally impressive fuel efficiency ratings found on Kia models. For example, you can opt for one of the many hybrid or EV vehicles available in the lineup! Find Your New Kia in Frederick, MD Today Are you ready for an adventure and want to find a dependable vehicle for all your exciting journeys ahead? Visit DARCARS Kia of Frederick and check out our roster of Kia icons ready to wow any time of year. We carry the latest varieties of new Kia models right here at our Kia dealership.

Your trusty Kia is always there for you, whether you're commuting to work or taking a road trip. So, it's no wonder you want to keep it looking its best by doing regular maintenance. But what do you do when it starts to show signs of wear and tear, like car dents and scratches? The best thing you can do for your Kia and your wallet is to take it to your nearest Kia dealer. Here's why: Why Take Your Car to a Kia Dealer to Fix Car Dents? They Have the Proper Tools and Equipment Fixing dents and dings can be a delicate process, and if you don't have the right tools and equipment, you could end up doing more harm than good. Your local dealer has tools like dent pullers and paintless dent repair kits that can help remove dents without damaging your car's paint job. Notice any dents in your car? Our Service Center can help! more They Have the Expertise to Get the Job Done Right Unless you are a trained auto body technician, it's likely that you don't have the same level of expertise as the technicians at your local dealership. They know how to properly fix dents so that they blend in with the rest of your car's finish. This means that you won't have to worry about your car looking like it was in an accident after the repairs are made. They Offer a Warranty When you take your car to your Kia dealer for dent repairs, your repairs may be covered by a warranty. This means that if something goes wrong with the repairs, you can take your car back to the dealership, and they will fix the problem at no cost to you. You Can Get Other Services Done at the Same Time Another benefit of taking your car to a Kia car dealer for dent repairs is that you can get other services done at the same time. For example, if you need an oil change or a new set of tires, you can have those services performed while your car is being repaired. We have a full-service facility here that can handle all your car maintenance. They Are Convenient One of the best reasons to take your car to a dealer for dent repairs is that they are convenient. You can bring your Kia car or SUV in for service while you're at work or running errands and not have to worry about making a special trip. Get Car Dent Repairs at Our Kia Service Center Don't let a little wear and tear get you down. Car dings and dents are no match for the skilled technicians at your local dealership. Give DARCARS Kia of Frederick a call today to schedule an appointment for dent repair or any of your other car maintenance needs. We are always happy to help keep your Kia running like new. If you need to get other services for your car, too, we welcome you to use the online scheduler to conveniently get all your services scheduled.

Ignition coils are a major component of your vehicle's ignition system, essential to keeping your car running smoothly. Like most components in your car, ignition coils can wear down and end up needing to get replaced, so it's important to know the signs that will let you know it’s time to visit your local Kia dealer and have new ignition coils put in. To help with that, we've created a quick introduction to faulty ignition coils (and what to do about them) here! Faulty Ignition Coil FAQs What Is an Ignition Coil? Ignition coils are essentially small cylinders within the ignition system of your car's engine that contain coils of copper wiring and act as a voltage converter. It's an essential part of your car's engine, without which your vehicle won't be able to produce the power required to keep your engine running smoothly (or at all)! more How Do Ignition Coils Work? Your vehicle's ignition coils work by converting the relatively low voltage of your car's battery into the thousands of volts that are required to keep an internal combustion engine running. Ignition coils will either connect directly to your engine's spark plugs or will be connected via a high-voltage wire. Once this converted voltage makes it through the coils, it triggers the spark plugs, and gives your engine the jolt needed to get its cylinders firing. What Are the Signs of a Bad Ignition Coil? Some of the more common signs are a loss of power, where your vehicle may start to feel sluggish or to lose power altogether, as well as a decrease in your vehicle's fuel economy. You may also notice that your vehicle starts sputtering and misfiring, resulting in a jerky, rough ride. Your car may start stalling when you come to a stop and being difficult to get running again when you try to turn it back on. Additionally, it's likely your check engine light will be on. If you've been noticing one, or several, of these symptoms starting to manifest in your vehicle, it's probably a good idea to head down to your local dealership and have them looked into. How Can I Get My Ignition Coils Replaced? Ignition coils are an extremely important part of modern combustion engines, but, luckily for you, that doesn't mean they have to be an extremely expensive fix! The mechanics at your local dealership should be able to get this sorted out for you in no time. It's important to have ignition coil problems fixed sooner rather than later, though, as driving with failing ignition coils can lead to more extensive (and expensive) damage to other parts of your vehicle down the line. Schedule an Ignition Service in Frederick If you're noticing any of the signs and symptoms of failing ignition coils above, the time to act is now. Come on down and visit us at DARCARS Kia of Frederick today, where our team of skilled mechanics can have your car back on the road and firing on all cylinders in no time!