Kansas sees a varied climate with all four seasons, which means drivers in the area choose a variety of vehicles. In years past, some of the front-runners have included the Ford...
Georgia offers drivers a mild climate with very little snow, but rain is a major factor. Previous best-selling cars in the area, such as the Escape, Fusion and Camry, have shown...
Kia has really turned over a new leaf with their cars in the past few years, and the 2012 Kia Optima Hybrid is certainly no exception. With the same attractive design as...
Kia hasn’t always had the best reputation. In fact, for years the Korean automaker was known for making cheap vehicles that didn’t last. Today, though, that reputation has drastically changed, thanks in large...
Mid-size sedans can be pretty basic, with four doors and simple and straightforward options, decent but not stellar gas mileage, and an uninspired interior. They can also have great design and fight off boredom through sporty suspension and...
Here’s a cruel, hard fact – car manufacturers no longer target seniors. Instead, they devote their time and energy to appealing to the 18-45 demographic. Still, some features make certain cars...
While shorter than average drivers can have a tough time finding the right car, it’s equally hard for taller drivers, perhaps more so. If you’re feeling squished, or have to...
Buying a used car is rarely a simple process, but if you don’t have kids, you have many more options than those who have to account for additional passengers. There are...
Hi there. The P2118 code is a general OBD-II diagnostic trouble code (DTC) that is referencing the throttle actuator control motor current / performance. This code may be seen with other throttle position sensor codes. P2101 is an OBD-II generic...
Hi Don. Thanks for contacting us today. There are a few things that could be causing the battery failure you're experiencing such as a bad battery temperature sensor (located under the battery), a damaged alternator, faulty charging wire connections or...
Hi there. What you are describing is typically an indication of loose suspension or steering components, ranging from struts, stabilizer bar bushings or even brake system components. Since there are multiple possible components causing this type of noise, it's a...
Hello, thank you for writing in. You should have no issues steam cleaning your seats. Your owner's manual will have the best information on how to handle cleaning your interior based on the trim you have and what the interior...
Hi there. The code you listed is a Kia specific OBD-II trouble code that indicates an issue with the intake manifold, specifically 'bank one' of the intake manifold. Your engine on your Kia Optima is equipped with an intake manifold...
You do not have a timing belt but a timing chain. If the engine overheated or ran low on oil then this may have seized the motor. You will need to have the engine turned by crankshaft to see if...
Hi there. You might want to have a professional mobile mechanic come to your location to complete a car is hard to start inspection before calling a locksmith, as in most cases a mechanic can inspect the mechanical components of...
Hi There, This may be an issue related to the communication of the PCM and the TCM (Transmission control module). As you may know, the TCM relies on the PCM to transmit information related to RPM's, which the TCM then...
The orange warning triangle typically has to do with a traction and/or stability control system fault. This warning is typically triggered by a fault in one of those systems. Anything from a wheel speed sensor to a brake light switch...
If the problem only occurred once, it is likely due to an electrical fault. A real time scanner might reveal engine controls operating out of range and that might provides clues as to the faulty system or component. Check for...
If you seen smoke from the dash then you should not turn on the car until the shorted wiring or module is identified and diagnosed before a fire in the wiring system can happen if there is a direct short....
Try to take out the battery on your key FOB to see if the trunk still opens when you turn off the car? You may also want to check the key FOB for a stuck trunk button. If problem goes...
Hi Laura. Thanks for writing in today. In regards to whether your 2008 Kia Optima has ABS, that depends on what model you have. ABS is an optional upgrade that is available in multiple trim levels. The best way to...
The grinding noise may be a number of things, but is often times associated with the a starter that is beginning to fail. When this happens, sometimes the starter gear that engages the flywheel remains engaged too long resulting in...
This part is normally located behind the timing cover and is mounted to the camshaft. It is possible that the timing belt will need to be removed in order to access it.
Hello, thank you for writing in. The clanking noise is likely associated with the brake system or the CV joints. You will want these inspected first before looking to anything else. CV joints wear down and fall out of alignment....
When the battery light comes on, this may indicate you may have a faulty alternator or a weak battery as a result of the alternator not properly charging the battery. I would suggest having a professional from YourMechanic come to...
Your engine design is of the "interference" type. That means that if the timing belt was not installed correctly (or breaks when the engine is running) and thus the camshaft(s) turns out of synch with the crankshaft, the valves can...
Hi Rickie. Thanks for contacting us today. Since your car is brand new, your best bet is to contact the dealership where you purchased the vehicle, so they can provide you with the correct access points or procedures.
