Kia Timing Belt Replacement Guide

January 24, 2025 · 2 min read

The timing belt helps keep everything working in sync inside your engine. If your belt wears out or breaks, your engine can malfunction and may refuse to start. Let's look at how frequently you're likely to need Kia timing belt replacement and a few warning signs to look out for.

Every 60,000 to 100,000 Miles

Car timing belts are extremely durable and will typically last from 60,000 to 100,000 miles. It's important to have your timing belt routinely inspected for signs of wear and tear, especially after you pass the four-year mark. Consult your owner's manual for specific guidance on your model.

Symptoms of a Worn-Out Timing Belt

When should a Kia timing belt be replaced? As these belts are crucial to proper engine functioning, you'll notice signs of trouble as soon as your belt malfunctions. It's advisable to respond promptly to the following symptoms of a bad belt.

Engine Refuses To Start

The clearest indication of a worn or broken belt is the engine refusing to start. When you turn the key or press the ignition button, you'll hear the starter working but nothing else happens.

Check Engine Light

If a bad belt causes your engine to falter, you're very likely to see the check engine light light up on your instrument panel. This warning light should prompt you to have your car examined at once by a professional.

Visual Signs of Damage

If you suspect a bad belt, or simply want to carry out a routine check, you can pop the hood to visually inspect your timing belt for signs of damage. Look for cracks and excess looseness. One of our technicians can examine your belt for you to determine whether or not it is recommended to get replaced.

Ticking Sounds

Timing belt issues can lead to a ticking sound from the engine compartment. The ticking could be caused by the irregular gaps or the bad belt failing to work properly.

Excessive Engine Revving

A failing timing belt could also cause your engine to rev loudly and erratically. This is a sign that the engine is struggling to produce as much power as usual without a fully functioning belt.

Need to Book a Kia Repair in Lanham, MD?

Visit DARCARS Kia of Lanham to have your timing belt inspected or replaced by experienced technicians. We offer a variety of new and pre-owned vehicles plus comprehensive maintenance and repair services.

Posted in:

Service Technician Working on Car Lanham, MD

Oct 21, 2022 in Kia Genuine Parts Lanham MD

How Often Do You Need to Replace Your Spark Plugs in Lanham, MD?

Automobiles need to routinely get serviced to ensure that they are running correctly. And just like the human body, regular inspections and maintenance make all the difference. There's a strong argument for spark plugs being one of the most essential parts of your vehicle. Read on to learn more about these components and what your Maryland Kia dealer can do for you. How Often Should You Replace Your Spark Plugs? The best rule of thumb to follow is using the manufacturer's guidelines. Each manufacturer will have time intervals for how often each part needs replacing. Typically, you'll find most recommend changing your plugs between 30,000 and 60,000 miles, though some are increasing this from 80,000 to 100,000 miles. more These suggestions may vary widely, due to mechanical issues, electric issues, and other car-related problems. Signs Something Is Wrong Engine Misfire An engine misfire occurs when plugs don't provide the proper spark to ignite fuel. Misfires can happen in either an idle state, cruising, or acceleration. However, misfires are not exclusive to problems with your plugs. A faulty ignition coil, gasket leakage, and general engine damage can all play a part. Symptoms of a misfire are jerking or vibrating sensations. Almost as if the engine gives out and kicks back in, the plugs are not steadily and uniformly igniting the fuel. So next time you feel a misfire, don't hesitate and get an inspection – it could save you more money down the road. Engine Knocking Engine knocking is a loud knocking sound coming from your engine. The uneven fuel burn causes shockwaves throughout the engine, causing the knocking sound. This knocking is a sign of faulty plugs, but it can wreak much more havoc on the surrounding parts. The pistons, cylinder head valves, and other components suffer from these shockwaves. Acceleration Problems If you notice weak acceleration, your plugs may be failing. The plugs aren't firing at the optimal rate. The erratic firing forces an uneven distribution of work to the cylinders, which in turn causes decreased power output. Visiting Your Kia Dealer in Lanham, MD Entrusting a Kia professional with your automobile ensures the job gets done right. Kia-certified mechanics have a wide range of knowledge and experience with Kia vehicles and their possible problems. A third-party auto body may use aftermarket parts not designed for your specific make and model. A Kia professional eliminates that worry by using components made by Kia and for Kia vehicles. For all the things that can go wrong, Kia vehicles are reliable, durable, and capable machines. Beyond that, the support network provided by dealers makes owning a Kia all the more wonderful. Finding a dealer may be a difficult task, but said dealer should be professional, trusted, and emphasize customer-oriented services. Call DARCARS Lanham Kia today to speak to Kia experts who can help you with any problems you may have whether it’s replacing a car belt or getting new tires, we can assist!

Mar 04, 2022 in Kia Genuine Parts Lanham MD

5 Tips for Ordering Genuine Kia Parts in Lanham, MD

The performance of your Kia is highly influenced by its parts, and regular usage leads to wear and tear. This calls for the replacement of the affected parts. While there are genuine parts, some are counterfeit. Here are five tips for making sure you get genuine Kia parts. 1. Know the Exact Part Car parts vary depending on their make, model, and year of manufacture, among other things. To ensure you have the correct part, check your vehicle identification number, and indicate the part code. Getting the correct spare parts allows your Kia to perform as designed. more 2. Buy from Local Authorized Dealers Authorized dealers stock genuine parts, making it easy for you to access them. The dealers are affiliated with Kia, so you can trust them. After buying genuine parts, you can install them on your own. Or you can take it to the dealership where you can benefit from Kia factory workmanship. These dealers also stock all Kia car parts, so you get all you need under one roof. Ordering locally allows you to enjoy the convenience of getting roadside assistance in case of emergency. You can get your parts delivered to you and serviced by Kia-trained technicians. You also have the option of visiting the service center for a comprehensive check and service for your Kia. 3. Check the Branding of the Parts Since it can be hard to differentiate between genuine and aftermarket parts if you are not ordering from your dealership, make sure you check for inconsistencies in the branding of the parts. Genuine parts are marked with the brand's logo and made specifically for your Kia. The pricing of the parts can also guide you in knowing if it's a genuine part or not. If the part is too cheap, then you should start having doubts. Go for reasonably priced genuine parts, which are always available at your dealer. 4. Get Your Warranty Genuine parts come with up to 12 months warranty from the date of installation or 12,000 miles. This gives you an assurance that you have ordered quality parts, and, in case of any fault, they will be replaced by the dealer. You also save on cost in case the parts have issues within the warranty period. 5. Ensure Safety and Quality Tests Are Done Aftermarket parts are a gamble. Genuine parts are tested for quality, safety, fit, and functionality for your Kia. This allows you to protect your Kia from malfunctions that can cost you a lot in repairs. You also benefit from a comprehensive inspection when you come into your dealer for service. Order Kia Parts and Get Your Kia Serviced Today Your Kia is an investment: protect it to ensure proper functionality and longevity. Call DARCARS Lanham Kia to order genuine parts for your Kia. You will also benefit from services from factory-trained technicians to ensure the excellent performance of your vehicle. Schedule with us today!

Apr 18, 2025 in Auto Repair Lanham MD

Kia Spark Plug Replacement: Enhance Engine Performance

Spark Plugs ignite the fuel-air mixture in the engine cylinders, creating combustion that provides the energy to move your Kia. These plugs wear out with age and can also be damaged by problems with your engine. Check out some of these signs you need to visit us to have us replace your car’s spark plugs. Signs You Need Your Spark Plugs Replaced at Your Kia Dealership Carbon Buildup If you notice carbon buildup on the spark plugs, it’s a sign your engine can be running fuel-rich. Combustion occurs when air and fuel, mixed in a precise ratio, are compressed and then ignited by a spark plug. If the mixture isn’t the right ratio, it can become fuel-rich. A fuel-rich engine can lead to the buildup of carbon on the spark plugs. more Carbon attaches to the spark plugs and it may make the spark plugs work harder as a result, and they may wear out faster. In addition, the buildup of carbon can cause engine misfire issues. Our technicians will replace the damaged plugs and get the performance of your car’s engine back up and running great. Damaged Ignition Coils A spark plug screws into the cylinder head, and can be connected to ignition coils. Ignition coils wear out due to age and while the time for replacement can vary, generally they can last around 100,000 miles. We'll replace any damaged coils and test and replace any damaged spark plugs. Oily Spark Plugs Another sign that your vehicle needs its spark plugs replaced is if you find oily spark plugs. Worn parts in your vehicle can allow oil to get to the spark plugs and affect the engine performance of your car, causing things like misfires and can even damage the engine if it gets too severe. We'll replace the damaged plugs and install new seals to help fix this issue. Get a Kia Spark Plug Replacement in Lanham, MD While these are some warning sign highlights of bad spark plugs in a vehicle, there’s no need to worry. Spark plug replacement is quick and inexpensive and can help prevent engine damage. Does your Kia need its spark plugs replaced? Contact us today at DARCARS Kia of Lanham. Our Kia Service Center can replace the plugs in your Kia using genuine OEM Kia parts and do a comprehensive inspection of your Kia to ensure that other parts are working correctly as well. Do you want to save on your next Kia service or repair? See if there is a service deal online!