A vital component in your vehicle’s engine system is the spark plug, and detecting early signs that your Hyundai needs new spark plugs can enhance performance, save you on fuel consumption, and prevent more serious problems down the road. Talk to a Hyundai dealer if you notice any of the following signs.
Decreased Fuel Efficiency
One of the first telltale signs that your Hyundai might require new plugs is a decrease in fuel efficiency. These plugs play an instrumental role in combusting the fuel in your engine, so if they are malfunctioning, your car may consume more fuel than necessary. If you notice you’re visiting the gas station more frequently, it’s time to consider having your plugs checked.
Difficulty Starting the Vehicle
These plugs are key to starting your Hyundai. They ignite the air-fuel mixture in the engine’s combustion chamber, enabling your vehicle to start. If your Hyundai struggles to start, or you’re experiencing more instances of your car failing to turn over, it may be a sign that your plugs need replacement.
Poor Acceleration and Rough Idling
The state of your plugs can impact your Hyundai’s overall performance. If you’re experiencing sluggish acceleration or your vehicle seems less responsive when you hit the gas pedal, it may be due to worn plugs. Additionally, a rough idle – where your Hyundai feels shaky and produces a loud, irregular noise while stationary – can also point to spark plug issues.
Misfires and Engine Surges
Finally, engine misfires or surges are significant indicators of spark plug failure. If your engine is not running smoothly or if it surges and falls repeatedly, it can be due to malfunctioning plugs. This erratic operation can lead to larger issues if not addressed promptly.
How a Spark Plug Works
A spark plug sends an electrical signal sent from the ignition coil, creating a spark that ignites the air-fuel mixture in the combustion chamber. This is what powers your engine and propels your vehicle forward. The electrodes on a spark plug are subjected to extreme conditions, and over time, they wear out. This deterioration is what leads to many of the symptoms previously described, such as decreased fuel efficiency, difficulty starting, poor acceleration, rough idling, and engine misfires or surges.
At Crain Hyundai of Fort Smith, we understand the importance of proactive maintenance, and our team of experienced technicians is ready to help. If you suspect your Hyundai needs new plugs, don’t wait until your vehicle’s performance suffers. Reach out to Crain Hyundai of Fort Smith today and let’s ensure your Hyundai continues to deliver the performance and efficiency you’ve come to expect.
Electrical problems can vary from minor to major, but they all affect your ability to enjoy the benefits of your Hyundai. If a problem isn’t repaired, it could lead to extensive damage to your car. Fortunately, your Hyundai dealer in Fort Smith, AR, can fix any possible problem for you. These are a few potential issues that mean you need to visit us for a repair.
Worn Alternator
The alternator is a small generator inside your engine that produces electricity for your car’s systems and devices while your engine is running. Some of the electricity it produces is used to recharge your battery. An alternator has an average lifespan of eight years before it needs replacement. Eventually, the alternator will slow down due to age wear, and this reduces the amount of power it produces.
A failing alternator isn’t usually noticeable when it starts, as the alternator produces more power than your car’s systems require. As time passes, the reduced power supply from the alternator will cause problems for your car including misfiring, slower starting, and dim lights. The battery warning light on your dash will also illuminate. We can test your alternator and install a new one very quickly if required.
Damaged Fuse Box
Every electrical system in your car has a fuse. These fuses function identically to the ones in your home, as they protect their connected systems against electrical overloads and shorts. Fuses age and wear out, and they can also blow due to electrical shorts. The blown fuse prevents a short from damaging its system but also cuts power to that system until the fuse is replaced.
If you’re experiencing multiple blown fuses, the problem is very likely due to a damaged fuse box. Our technicians will test the fuse box and the wiring connected to it to find and isolate the problem. We can replace damaged wiring and fuses and will also install a new fuse box if it is causing the problem. Once the fuses are reconnected, your car’s electrical system will work correctly again.
Damaged Spark Plugs
Healthy spark plugs are essential for efficient combustion, as they provide the ignition source for the fuel-air mixture in the cylinders. The spark plugs are supplied with power from the electrical system. Spark plugs will wear out in time, and we test and replace them as part of your car’s service schedule.
Plugs can also be damaged by the failure of other engine components, like a worn ignition coil or a fuel-rich engine. Damaged plugs will cause misfiring and could prevent your engine from starting. Our technicians will test each spark plug and replace any damaged ones.
Problems in the electrical system can cause additional damage to your car and its systems. Call us today at Crain Hyundai of Fort Smith.
Everybody needs a weekend away once in a while. So, if you’re looking for weekend getaways without getting too far from Fort Smith, AR, we’ve got the destinations for you.
StoneWind Retreat, Chester, AR
Have you ever wanted to stay in a yurt? Well, you and a partner can have a relaxing weekend filled with serenity and elegance while visiting StoneWind Retreat. Located just an hour outside Fort Smith, you can get there and back using less than one tank of gas in your fuel-efficient Hyundai Elantra Hybrid.
They also have hiking trails, in-cabin massages, hot tubs, and the most beautiful sunrises and sunsets you could ask for. If you need a relaxing weekend away, this retreat is located at 15840 Wilson Branch Drive and is well worth the trip.
Devil’s Den State Park
Is camping and hiking your way to relax? Then you need to head to Devil’s Den State Park for a weekend away. There are a number of cabins and campsites available for rental. You can find that park at 11333 West Arkansas Hwy. 74.
There’s no shortage of activities to do at the park, either. Lake Devil is over 8 acres and allows for fishing. There is also a place to rent paddle boats and canoes right on the water. If you’d rather get into the mountains, there are several trails, from backpacking, mountain biking, horseback riding, and hiking, so no matter what level of adventurer you are, there’s bound to be something perfect for you.
Siloam Springs
Do you like to explore new places? Consider visiting historic Siloam Springs. Their downtown district offers a variety of fantastic local eateries as well as plenty of activities. Go hiking on their beautiful Dogwood Springs Walking trail, visit the Kayak park, or spend the day at City Lake.
You won’t want to miss their Family Aquatics Center, located at 1800 N. Mt. Olive, where the whole family can enjoy a day by the pool for five dollars a person and only four for children aged three and under.
Van Buren
You can explore a vibrant historical town by spending the weekend in Van Buren. Experience the local culture by seeing a show at the King Opera House at 427 Main St. Also, be sure to visit at least one of their eight public parks, where you can enjoy a picnic lunch or some fishing and boating.
Make sure to check their entertainment calendar before scheduling your trip here because they host a number of fun festivals and events you won’t want to miss.
And remember, if you’re looking for a new vehicle to road-trip in, contact us at Crain Hyundai of Fort Smith to find the vehicle you’ve been searching for.
Image via Pixabay.
Do you need a vehicle that provides you with you optimal fuel efficiency? Well, you’re in luck because we can point you in the right direction. Visit your Hyundai dealer today, and we’ll ensure that you’re getting a car with the best gas mileage!
1. Hyundai Elantra SE
The Hyundai Elantra SE is incredible when it comes to conserving fuel. In fact, it’s one of the better models in terms of getting the most bang for your buck at the gas pump. It averages 43 MPG on the highway and 33 MPG in the city.
The beauty of the Elantra SE is that the car is pretty compact, and the size helps you save money on gas. The vehicle’s Idle Stop & Go function is also very useful in limiting fuel usage. Your engine essentially shuts down when you’re at a stop, thus preventing you from wasting fuel.
2. Hyundai Sonata Hybrid
Hybrid vehicles are the way to go if you’re looking to reduce and economize your fuel. The Sonata Hybrid by Hyundai is also a great starting point in terms of spending less money on gas. The vehicle’s fuel economy is so good that you won’t find many other options that can compare.
While driving in the city with the Sonata Hybrid, you get 50 MGP, and on the highway, it’s 54 MPG. These estimates are in line with some of the best averages out there. Your fuel usage will improve dramatically once you start driving the Sonata Hybrid!
3. Hyundai Kona SEL
The Kona SEL by Hyundai is also an excellent option in terms of gas mileage. With estimates of 35 MPG on the highway and 30 MPG in the city, you’re getting a reliable vehicle in terms of fuel consumption. You can’t go wrong with the Kona SEL if you’re in the market for a 4-cylinder gas-powered engine.
The safety features built into the vehicle are also critical in helping you conserve fuel. The Lane Following Assist and Driver Attention Warning both ensure that you don’t deviate during your commute. In other words, you’re getting safety and efficiency from the Kona SEL.
4. Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid
The Ioniq Hybrid will also blow you away in terms of how far your fuel can get you. In fact, the Ioniq model represents Hyundai’s commitment to advancing new automotive technology. It also has a fuel economy rating that’s better than most other vehicles.
The fuel-efficient hybrid model tested extremely well in its EPA estimate. It averages 58 MPG in the city and 60 MPG on the highway. This vehicle undeniably offers you great gas mileage – reducing your fuel consumption has never been easier!
You can find your next fuel-efficient vehicle by contacting Crain Hyundai of Fort Smith. Our experts will go over all your options and allow you to test drive your favorite Hyundai. Talk to our sales team today to learn more about our best models!
Looking for a fun daytime drive but don’t want to break the bank? There are so many fun, free things to do around Fort Smith, AR, that you don’t have to go hours away for! Check out some of our favorite local freebies.
Janet Huckabee Arkansas River Valley Nature Center
This 170-acre nature center, located at 8300 Wells Lake Rd, offers a variety of outdoor exhibits to explore. You can also visit Wells Lake for some fishing or just to relax by the lake. All tours are self-guided, so you can go at your own pace.
Make sure you bring comfy shoes because their various nature center trails are the perfect place to explore around before you hit the lake. With plenty of opportunities to learn about local flora and fauna, this trip is perfect for the whole family or for a solo venture and hike through the nature center.
Creekmore Park
Looking for a different way to travel? Give your family’s comfortable and stylish hybrid Hyundai Tucson a break while you enjoy a free ride on the express train at Creekmore Park. Located at 331 S. Main St, you can also enjoy a number of both outdoor and indoor activities and programs held throughout the year.
Be sure to check out Creekmore’s website for full details. Most of their activities are free and open to the public, but please be aware some events may have a small entrance fee.
Martin Luther King Jr Park
Spend a day enjoying some soccer, baseball, or basketball at this park, located at 1815 N. Greenwood Ave. If you’d rather, there are also a number of hiking trails to explore.
Once you’re done playing in the sun or hiking the mountain, stop by the splash pad to cool off before you head home. The best part? It’s all free! You can even use the pavilion or picnic areas for no additional charge.
Chaffee Barbershop Museum
Are you a big fan of Elvis? You’ve got to stop by the Chaffee Barbershop Museum, affectionately coined the Elvis Barbershop Museum, for a free step back through time. Here, you can experience Fort Chaffee in 1958 and learn about the local history. Make sure you check it out at 7020 Taylor Ave.
You’ll be able to see what the barbershop looked like when Elvis was there and get an idea of what life was like at a military fort in the 50s. Whether you’re a fan of the music or the history, this is one stop on the tour you won’t want to miss.
We hope these fun free attractions strike your fancy and keep you entertained for the day. While you’re exploring around Fort Smith, make sure to explore your vehicle options at Craine Hyundai of Fort Smith.
Image via Pixabay.
Car dents and car scratches are best repaired by a skillful technician at your local Hyundai dealer in order to restore your car’s bodywork to pristine condition. The following at-home methods may help, but without experience, there’s always the risk of causing further aesthetic damage.
Next Steps
The shallower the scratch, the easier it usually is to repair. The mildest of clear-coat scratches and blemishes might disappear with the application of some liquid scratch remover and a little light buffing with a clean microfiber towel. A good clear scratch pen can also sometimes make the mark go away.
When a scratch goes deeper into the base coat, you’ll see the darker enamel color layer underneath. These scratches require gentle sanding with an abrasive compound before the clear coat layer is reapplied, buffed, and polished. The deepest scratches make it down to the primer layer or even the metal beneath. These deep scratches may require cleaning and carefully layered filling before the enamel paint layer and clear coat can be reapplied.
Dealing With Car Dents
Dents are even harder to fix properly without a trained eye. Dents in bumpers and other plastic areas of the bodywork can sometimes be fixed with a kettle of boiling water, which causes the plastic to soften and expand, and then pushed from inside or tugged back into shape with a plunger. For repairing dents in metal areas, a technique exists that involves cylindrical dowels, screws, and hot glue.
First, you cut the dowels in half and then put a screw through each portion, creating a little handle. You can then use hot glue to stick many of these dowel handles to dented areas of your car and once the glue has dried, you simply heave the dents out. A hairdryer can help you melt the glue and remove the handles. Particularly stubborn, deep, or awkward dents can sometimes be visually fixed by simply filling them in.
Have Your Hyundai Dealer Fix It for You
Removing dents completely is remarkably difficult without experience. And any of these methods entails the risk of leaving visible marks around the scratched or dented area. Even polishing too hard can leave scuffs or blemishes which then require an additional repair job.
Qualified technicians can remedy any external and internal damage to a car with professional detailing. When you take into account the amount of time and energy you save by taking pesky dents and scratches to a dealership to solve, let alone the difference in workmanship quality, it’s rarely worth attempting home solutions that might make the problem worse. Have your car’s bodywork repaired to its pristine condition today at Crain Hyundai of Fort Smith. Our courteous, knowledgeable staff and mechanics are dedicated to delivering great results and customer service, whatever your car-related need might be.
4 Entertainment Venues Near Fort Smith, AR
Fort Worth is one of Arkansas’ favorite cities, with plenty of history, culture, and opportunities to explore the great outdoors right at your fingertips. Additionally, there’s plenty of entertainment in Fort Smith, AR, for every budget and need. If you’re in the mood for a first-class show, these four best venues are worth driving to.
1. Temple Live
Located conveniently at 200 N. 11th Street, Temple Live is a spacious venue with plenty of dining options for the whole family. They also serve alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, so please drink responsibly when you pay them a visit. With outstanding security, ample bathrooms, and beautiful views from any and every set, this is one of Fort Smith’s favorite stomping grounds.
Plus, there’s plenty of parking for your 2023 Hyundai Tucson, just a few minutes walk from the venue.
2. Riverfront Park Events Building
Riverfront Park Events Building at 121 Riverfront Drive is one of the best spots in town to catch an outdoor show. If you’re visiting Fort Smith during the summer, you should definitely pack the kiddos into your roomy but fuel-efficient 2008 Toyota Prius and head on down. Concert and family-friendly fare like fireworks shows are happening at Riverfront Park Events Building all season long.
3. The Sound Room
If you’re looking for the friendliest locals in all of Fort Smith, you’ll find them at The Sound Room at 817 Garrison Avenue. This venue is just about as local as you can get, with reasonable prices and a varied menu of different acts to suit every taste.
One of the best aspects of The Sound Room is that it’s split between two floors, so the dance floor is separate from a lounge, giving you the option to tailor your night. Your 2014 Ford F-150 has space for you and the whole crew and handles perfectly for city or country driving.
4. Fort Smith Convention Center
Fort Smith Convention Center, at 55 S. 7th Street, is a spacious spot with superb acoustics and a massive Performing Arts Center with seating for over 1,300 people. It’s the perfect place to bring the family, centrally located, and you won’t find a bad seat in the house. Your stylish 2023 Hyundai Sonata SE is a classy option, and thanks to Blind Spot Collision Avoidance and Smart Cruise Control, it’s an easy drive.
Whether you want to see a live show, or music performance, or take the kids to a fireworks display they’ll never forget, Fort Smith has it all, but you need a reliable ride to get there. Stop in to see us at Crain Hyundai of Fort Smith and take one of our new or used models for a spin today.
Image via Pixabay.
3 Stadiums and Sports Venues Near Fort Smith, AR
When you love sports and public events, Fort Smith, AR is a great place to be. The sports venues and stadiums in the city provide many opportunities for great times with family and friends. We recommend you check out the following venues that we often frequent ourselves.
1. Jim Rowland Stadium
Home to the Southside Mavericks, Jim Rowland Stadium is a great facility for football games as well as track events. Come out and cheer on your high school football team at this venue that boasts beautiful grounds, a video scoreboard, and seating for more than 5,000 people. The facility is owned by the Fort Smith school district and is located at 4100 Gary St.
2. Harper Stadium
Harper Stadium is home to bull riding, rodeos, trade shows, tractor pulls, flea markets, extreme sports events, concerts, and more. The versatiliy of the stadium means it can be catered to whatever the event calls for. The stadium seats up to 9,000 guests and can accommodate up to as many as 14,000 people with the festival-style layout plan. One of the things we appreciate most is that you’ll have an excellent view no matter where you are seated.
Though the stadium has been around for a while, the groundskeepers and crew work hard to keep it in tip-top shape, creating a clean and fun experience for every guest. Visit their website for all of their upcoming events. Harper Stadium is located at 4400 Midland Blvd.
3. UAFS Stubblefield Center
This beautiful, modern, and clean arena is part of the University of Arkansas Fort Smith Athletics. Enjoy your local men’s and women’s basketball games in the comfortable stadium-style seating. Take advantage of the concession stands with a snack while cheering on your favorite team. We appreciate that the center has an elevator and the parking lot is convenient and easy to navigate. Plus, the staff are helpful if you need assistance or have any questions.
The Center is also home to the university’s graduation ceremonies and can host thousands of guests in its vast arena. Visit the University of Arkansas Fort Smith Athletics web page for upcoming events and more information. UAFS Stubblefield Center is located at 5402 Kinkead Ave.
Wouldn’t you enjoy riding in style in a brand-new 2023 Hyundai Kona SEL FWD when heading out to the sports venue? Stop by Crain Hyundai of Fort Smith and see this fine vehicle in person. You can even take a test drive today! And be sure to look at all of our new and certified pre-owned vehicles. Or schedule an appointment with our qualified mechanics for a tuneup on your current vehicle. We are located at 3600 S. Zero St.
Get to Know the 2023 Hyundai Palisade
The 2023 Hyundai Palisade is an innovative SUV that is sure to turn heads. It combines the convenience of a family-friendly vehicle with the performance and luxury of a premium car. With its sleek exterior design, advanced technology features, and comfortable interior, the Palisade is a great choice for anyone looking for a versatile family vehicle.
Vehicle Overview
The 2023 Palisade is the perfect choice for a large, luxurious, and practical family vehicle. This three-row SUV has something to offer everyone in your family with its upscale features, strong performance, and all-around practicality. Starting at just $35,550, the base model Palisade offers an impressive 19 to 27 mpg on city and highway roads, respectively.
At the heart of this SUV lies a powerful 6-cylinder engine that produces 291 hp, providing plenty of power for when you need it most. For even more road confidence, optional all-wheel drive is available, making sure you stay safe no matter what the conditions throw your way. With plenty of room for passengers and luggage alike, plus great towing capability, the Palisade will make sure any journey feels like first-class travel for everyone inside.
Bold Exterior Design
The all-new Palisade has been an iconic SUV for quite some time, and now its 2023 model is reinventing the classic. This exterior will feature a bold grille with LED headlights to help illuminate the way ahead. The standard wheels will be 18″, but drivers can opt for 20″ if they’re looking for a more robust look. To make driving even easier, side mirrors come with LED turn-signal indicators to clearly alert other motorists of your intentions.
The 2023 Palisade exterior is designed to give drivers a sense of confidence on the road while also providing them with the comfort and style that they’ve come to expect from this beloved SUV. With its sleek design, powerful engine options, and advanced safety features, there’s no doubt that it’s well worth considering if you’re in the market for a reliable vehicle that looks great too!
Interior Design and Amenities
The 2023 Palisade is an impressive SUV that has a plush interior for up to 8 passengers. It comes with a touchscreen infotainment system that provides Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as built-in navigation. This system gives you access to your favorite apps, music, and more while on the road. The Palisade also features a standard WiFi hotspot so that you can stay connected wherever you go.
This SUV also offers plenty of comfort thanks to its spacious cabin and supportive seating. There are multiple USB ports throughout the cabin so everyone can stay charged while they are riding. The driver’s seat is adjustable with lumbar support, allowing it to be tailored to fit your needs perfectly. With amenities like these and more, the 2023 Palisade will take your daily commute or family vacation to the next level!
Stop by Crain Hyundai of Fort Smith today and test drive the all-new Palisade!
No matter how hard you work, it’s always important to take the time for a little amusement, and Fort Smith, AR gives you lots of opportunities to have it. Check out our list of fun places for those days when you don’t want to do anything but enjoy yourself.
1. Park at West End
This iconic location in the heart of downtown Fort Smith is undergoing a long-awaited reopening after renovations, and promises nostalgic fun for all ages. The Ferris wheel will reopen later in the year, but the old-fashioned Bertazzon carousel is up and running, and the converted Pullman car is now the home of Wild Waffles. And there are numerous games and activities for kids, including the popular splash pad.
The Park at West End has been the scene of countless memorable moments for Fort Smith residents through the years, and it’s all set to provide many more. Watch out for future opening dates and head down for a fun afternoon with the family.
2. Fort Smith Escape Room
Located at 4301 Regions Park Drive, this venue contains multiple games designed to test your teamwork, ingenuity, and resolve. Bond with family and friends by solving puzzles and riddles to beat the room in 60 minutes. It’s a fast-paced and frantic experience, with intriguing mysteries and impressive technological twists.
With multiple gameplays to choose from, from Blood on the Bayou to Christmas Around the World, there’s something to keep everyone entertained. Games are booked online, and can accommodate between one and 16 players, depending on your choice. So fill all the seats in your Hyundai Palisade and bring the gang down for an evening of thrills.
3. Vertical Horizons Climbing Gym
There’s nothing like a physical challenge to get the adrenaline pumping, and climbing is a great way to get fit, bond with friends, and have fun. Located at 3625 South 91st Street, Vertical Horizons Climbing Gym is suitable for everyone from complete beginners to seasoned pros, and opens from 1pm to 9pm from Monday to Saturday, closing at 6pm on Sundays.
With a range of walls for harnessed climbing and bouldering, the gym includes gear rental in its pricing.
4. Parrot Island Water Park
Opening for the season on May 13, Parrot Island Water Park is the perfect place to kick back. With four water slides, a lazy river, aquatic playground for children, and activity pool, the whole family will be able to enjoy an open-air swim. And with plenty of poolside seating to relax into, you’ll also be able to kick back and chill. The park will initially open from 11am to 6pm, and is located at 7300 South Zero Street.
You know what they say about “all work and no play”, so make sure that you schedule a few opportunities to enjoy yourself with friends and family soon. And while you’re having the time of your life, don’t forget to visit us at Crain Hyundai of Fort Smith to find out about our exciting inventory and specials.
Image via Pixabay.
Connect with us
Recent Blog Entries
- Start Your Journey Right: Great Hyundai Models for Graduates
- Discover the Best Hyundai SUVs for Moms this Mother’s Day
- Rely on Crain Hyundai for Excellent Service & Maintenance in Fort Smith
- Stay Prepared for Spring Weather in Fort Smith with Hyundai’s Safety Features
- Hyundai Offers Family-Friendly Features at Crain Hyundai of Fort Smith