Tips for Washing, Waxing, and Detailing Your Car

Every first Friday of October, the United States celebrates National Manufacturing Day (MFG Day). This event, started by the Manufacturing Institute, highlights manufacturing's economic importance and showcases career opportunities. For the auto industry, MFG Day is a chance to recognize its contributions and anticipate future innovations. The Importance of MFG Day MFG Day is not just a one-day event; it kicks off a month-long celebration of Manufacturing Month. Thousands of companies and educational institutions open their doors to students, parents, educators, and community leaders. The aim? To educate the public about the realities of modern manufacturing and inspire the next generation to pursue careers in this vital sector. In the context of the auto industry, MFG Day is particularly significant. American manufacturers have been at the forefront of technical development for over two centuries, and the automotive sector has played a crucial role in this legacy. From the assembly lines of the past to today's cutting-edge electric vehicle (EV) production, the auto industry exemplifies American innovation and resilience. The State of the Automotive Industry The automotive industry is a powerhouse of economic activity and innovation. By 2030, it's anticipated that the automotive industry will achieve nearly $9 trillion in revenue and sales. In 2020, the U.S. Motor Vehicle and Retail Parts trade revenue was $1.25 trillion. The United States produced 8.8 million vehicles in 2020, which was 19% less than in 2019. In 2021, nearly 15 million vehicles were sold across the United States. The global automotive manufacturing market was valued at more than $2.8 trillion USD in 2021. The automotive industry employs more than 1.7 million people in the U.S. alone, with roles ranging from design and engineering to supply chain management and sales. Highlighting Key Trends in Auto Manufacturing This year's MFG Day comes at a pivotal time for the auto industry, as it embraces significant trends and shifts: 1. Electric Vehicles (EVs) The push towards electric vehicles is one of the most profound changes in the auto industry. By 2030, it's estimated that 26% of net car sales will be electric vehicles, with 58 million new self-driving cars hitting the roads. President Biden's Investing in America agenda underscores this shift, with the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) announcing $1.7 billion to support the conversion of 11 shuttered or at-risk auto manufacturing and assembly facilities across eight states to manufacture electric vehicles and their supply chain. 2. Workforce Development One of the most exciting aspects of MFG Day is the focus on career opportunities in manufacturing. The auto industry offers a wide range of high-paying jobs, yet there's a significant gender disparity, with only 15% of production workers being women. Efforts are underway to diversify the workforce and promote equal employment opportunities, ensuring that everyone has a chance to contribute to this dynamic industry. 3. Sustainable Manufacturing Sustainability is at the forefront of modern manufacturing. The Domestic Manufacturing Auto Conversion Grants program, funded by the Inflation Reduction Act, aims to expand the production of efficient hybrid, plug-in electric hybrid, plug-in electric drive, and hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicles. This initiative aligns with President Biden's Justice40 Initiative, which seeks to ensure that 40% of the benefits of federal investments flow to disadvantaged communities. 4. Community and Economic Revitalization The conversion of auto manufacturing facilities supports American workers and revitalizes communities that have long been the backbone of the U.S. economy. These investments not only create thousands of new jobs but also help retain highly skilled union workers, supporting the great comeback story of American manufacturing. Celebrate American Manufacturing If you're passionate about the auto industry and want to see firsthand how modern manufacturing is shaping the future, we encourage you to participate in MFG Day events. Whether you're a student exploring career options, a parent supporting your child's interests, or an educator looking to inspire your students, there's something for everyone. Join the celebration and learn all about the American manufacturing industry. Together, we can drive the future of the auto industry in the United States and ensure its continued success for generations to come. Take advantage of the best to come out of the American auto industry at Casa Kia by test-driving our many Kia vehicles like the brand new 2025 Kia K5, manufactured right here in the United States. We look forward to seeing you at our dealership!

The spring semester is creeping up on us. Is your child driving back to college on her own?  You need to make sure the car is ready for the journey. The Integrity Kia service team can get your kid’s college car ready for the spring semester without costing you an arm and a leg. 5 Car Maintenance Steps for a Safe Semester Before the car heads back to campus, allow us to perform a few maintenance tasks that will keep your child safe, allow the car to run better, and will save you money in the long run, because college is painfully expensive as it is. Check the tire tread, condition and air pressure. We will rotate and/or replace the tires if necessary. Check all the fluids and change the oil. Inspect the battery life, health and charge. Complete a thorough inspection of the electrical system and powertrain. Hook up the car to the diagnostic machine to look for any lurking concerns. 5 Things Your Kid Needs in the Car Preparing your college kid’s car goes beyond bringing it into the shop. You need to make sure your college kid has all he/she needs when driving and when away at school. First Aid Kit and an emergency roadside kit. The kit should have flares, flashlight, tire-changing equipment, tire gauge and jumper cables. Emergency phone numbers. Roadside assistance card, current insurance id cards and registration. Car fluids: quart of oil, windshield wiper fluid, gallon of water, and coolant. Car charger for phone in case of emergencies. It is also a good idea for you as a parent to talk to your cell phone provider about ways to block calls while your child is driving and to track the phone in case you cannot get a hold of your son or daughter.

When you’re shopping for a new ride, seeing what consumers have to say can definitely be a very valuable tool for you. There really is no better way to hear about a vehicle than from someone who actually owns it and drives it every day. Take a look at what consumers have to say about the 2016 Kia Sorento. Consumer Reviews Consumers are saying that the 2016 Kia Sorento is bigger and better than ever for 2016. This mid-size crossover is full of style and sophistication. It has user-friendly controls, versatile seating with plenty of leg room, and ample features all around. It is gas worthy and has excellent safety ratings. It is comfortable, quiet, and reliable. Favorite Features Some of the favorite exterior features in the 2016 Kia Sorento include its roof spoiler and black bumpers. It has 17” x 7.0” alloy wheels and 235/65-17 all-season tires. The inside of this beauty has premium cloth/velour upholstery, bucket seats for the driver and front passenger, and 40/20/40 seats for the rear passengers. AM/FM/satellite radio CD player Six speakers Roof antenna Cruise control Trip computer Remote power locks Tilt telescoping steering wheel Anti-theft protection Anti-lock brake system It has front and rear airbag protection, including intelligent driver and passenger front airbags, front side airbags, and front and rear curtain airbag. The front seat belts have both height adjusters and pre-tensioners, and the rear seat belts have a 3-point belt in the center.