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When you think of a family car, your mind might immediately go to a minivan. But thanks to the introduction of a number of new crossover SUVs, parents don't have to drive minivans to have enough space for their families and the gear that comes along with them. more Top Safety Features One of the most important aspects of a family car is its safety. Every 2017 Kia Sportage comes standard with a tire pressure monitoring system, traction and stability control, hill start assist, a rearview camera, antilock disc brakes, and airbags at the front seat and along the sides of the vehicle. If you opt for the SX Turbo model, you also get a forward collision mitigation system with emergency braking, blind spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, rear parking sensors, and lane departure warning. There are packages available for the lower trim levels to get some or all of the extra safety features. Kia also has its own Uvo telematics suite, which comes standard on both the SX and EX Turbo trim levels and is optional for the LX. This suite includes stolen vehicle tracking along with emergency and roadside assistance. For teenage drivers, the speed tracking and geo-fencing features are especially useful. Uvo also integrates with various smartphone apps for easier navigation. Improved Interior Kia designers introduced a more comfortable and appealing interior in the 2017 model of the Sportage. High-quality materials make up the inside, with comfortable seats and plenty of tech features, including Bluetooth connectivity, a touchscreen display, and a USB port. The base model also includes a six-speaker audio system and rear climate vents. With the middle trim level, you'll get heated front seats with a power eight-way driver seat, dual-zone automatic climate control, and leather upholstery, while the top SX Turbo version has ventilated front seats, an eight-way power passenger seat, a heated steering wheel, navigation, and a larger 8-inch touchscreen display. Plenty of Space This crossover SUV has seating for five, but its roomy interior ensures comfort for everyone. The driver and passenger area has plenty of room for taller people, and the backseat is also quite roomy. You can easily install a rear-facing child restraint seat in the backseat without sacrificing space for the passenger or driver up front. All trim levels come standard with Lower Anchor and Tethers for Children for easier installation and complete security of the child seat. Good Fuel Economy The 2017 Kia Sportage also gets great gas mileage, which makes it a more affordable car for families. The estimate for the base and middle models come in at 26 mpg combined, or 23 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway. The top trim level estimate comes in at 23 mpg combined, or 21 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway with front-wheel drive, and 21 mpg combined (20 city/23 highway) with all-wheel drive. If you're in the market for a family car, check out the 2017 Kia Sportage. This photo, " 2017 Kia Sportage SX arriere,” by Zytonits used under CC BY-SA 2.o. " 2017 Kia Sportage SX arriere " is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.o by Gay Family Kia.

From compact sedans to minivans to crossover SUVs, Kia has a vehicle available to suit every driver. Safety features are top priorities for many buyers, so check out these cool features available with new Kia vehicles. more Stronger Body Structure In the event of a crash, you'll want to be assured that your car or SUV is made from durable materials that can absorb the impact without immediately crushing in on you and your passengers. Kia uses ultra-high tensile steel to construct the cars in its lineup to protect those inside. The production process involves a hot stamping method that improves rigidity without adding a lot of extra weight. As a result, you still reap the benefits of a lightweight material (improved fuel efficiency, easier handling) while staying safe in a crash. Features That Prevent Crashes While some accidents are unavoidable, newer Kia cars have features that can prevent a crash or reduce the extent of the damage. Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) is one of these features. It uses a camera mounted on the dashboard to sense activity in the lane ahead and to detect the lane lines on the road. If you come up quickly on another vehicle or drift outside of your lane, the system will alert you and can apply the brakes automatically to slow your speed and prevent a crash. Vehicle Stability Management (VSM) is another useful feature that's available on many Kia models. This system monitors road conditions and manages control of the brakes and steering wheel automatically when the road gets bumpy. If you have to hit the brakes suddenly, the Emergency Stop Signal (ESS) will engage, triggering a fast blinking of the brake lamps to let drivers behind you know that you are coming to a quick stop. Tire Pressure Monitoring Experiencing a tire blowout is frightening and overwhelming, especially if it happens when you're driving at high speeds on a highway. But with the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), a standard feature on most Kia vehicles, you can get a warning when one of your tires has a decrease in tire pressure. This warning can prevent a blowout because it gives you time to fill the tire before it becomes a more serious situation. Advanced Smart Cruise Control On long road trips or other lengthy stretches of driving, cruise control is a great feature that allows you to set a speed and maintain that speed without accelerating or braking. But Kia's Advanced Smart Cruise Control feature takes it a step further by using radar-based technology to monitor changing road conditions and keep your car at a safe distance from other vehicles on the road. Traditional cruise control systems require you to slow down when you're advancing on another car, but this system is safer because it minimizes the risk of human error due to distracted driving. With these innovative safety features, you can feel confident when driving yourself and your loved ones around in a new Kia. This photo, " Pontiac G5 – Cruise Control Controls,” by Mark Doliner used under CC BY-SA 2.o. " Pontiac G5 – Cruise Control Controls " is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.o by Gay Family Kia.

If you find yourself yelling at other drivers or going out of your way to inhibit another car when you're behind the wheel, now is the time to work on aggressive driving that can lead to road rage. You might not realize that your behaviors classify as road rage, but these actions can lead to serious consequences. more Understanding Road Rage The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration ( NHTSA) defines road rage as "a criminal act of violence," and most drivers don't go that far. Still, aggressive driving is much more common and has become a serious problem. When you slam on your brakes to teach a tailgater a lesson, make an obscene hand gesture at another driver, or engage in any way with others on the road, you are showcasing aggressive driving, which is a stepping-stone to road rage. It's best to catch these behaviors early so they don't lead to a more serious situation. Road rage is a serious problem that shouldn't be ignored.  A number of accidents each year occur as a result of aggressive driving, and 37 percent of road rage cases involve a firearm. Get Out of the Way Instead of trying to inhibit someone else on the road by slowing down, just get out of the way. Chances are good that you're driving ahead of an aggressive driver, so it's best to move out of his or her way and allow the driver to continue. Leave it up to law enforcement professionals to enforce the laws. If you need to pull over to the side of the road, look for a spot where it's safe to do so. But in most cases, just changing lanes will be enough to get away from an aggressive driver. Avoid Engaging Some drivers like to shoot dirty looks or hand gestures at others who they feel have personally wronged them. This can ignite anger in those other drivers, leading to dangerous situations. If you make eye contact with someone on the road, this person then might try to run you off the road or goad you into pulling over for a violent altercation. While this might seem extreme, we are seeing more and more stories in the news about drivers who are injured or killed by others due to road rage. Use Methods to Calm Down If you feel your blood pressure rising as the result of another driver's actions, use some of these methods to calm yourself down. Try slowly counting to 10, turning on soothing music, and taking some deep breaths. You might also think about the other driver as a human being instead of just a cause of annoyance. Maybe the person is having a bad day, or perhaps the driver genuinely didn't mean to cut you off or take your spot. We've all made mistakes in driving, so remember that you've been guilty too at some point. When you avoid engaging with other drivers and remain calm behind the wheel, you can protect yourself and others when you're out on the road. This photo, " road_rage_road_rage_angry_motorist_gesturing_at_other_motorists_E00592,” by John Greenfield used under CC BY 2.o. " road_rage_road_rage_angry_motorist_gesturing_at_other_motorists_E00592 " is licensed under CC BY 2.o by Gay Family Kia.

Whether you're visiting Houston or live in the area, you definitely need to pay a visit to one (or all) of these top BBQ joints. Texas BBQ is a favorite among locals and visitors alike, so stop by and sample delicious entrees and freshly made sides. more Gatlin's BBQ Gatlin's BBQ recently opened a second location on Ella that is much larger than its original location on 19 th Street, so there is plenty of room for the crowds of people that flock there on a daily basis. Owner and pit boss Greg Gatlin is known for his trio of smoked ribs, which includes St. Louis-inspired spareribs, beef ribs, and baby back ribs that are short and full of flavor. Other options include classic chopped brisket, sausages, sliders, and pulled pork or chicken sandwiches. You can also opt for meat platters, served with sides like baked beans, collard greens, smoked corn, mac and cheese, and more. Save room for classic Southern desserts, including peach cobbler, bread pudding, lemon pound cake, and banana pudding. The Brisket House If beef brisket is your go-to BBQ comfort food, be sure to pay a visit to The Brisket House. It has two locations: one on Woodway Drive and the other on Center Street in Deer Park. The signature dish is tender and flavorful brisket, available in a 6-ounce, 8-ounce, or one-pound special, served with a whole pickle, onion, slab of cheddar cheese, and bread on butcher paper. Classic menu options are also available, such as pulled meat sandwiches, sausages served country style or with jalapenos, loaded baked potatoes, potato salad, mashed potatoes, and coleslaw. Satisfy your sweet tooth with a slice of pecan pie. Jackson Street BBQ During baseball season, this location fills up quickly because of its proximity to the Astros' ballpark. But even if it's crowded, the food is worth the wait. The top menu item is a fresh and fluffy biscuit stuffed with cheddar cheese, jalapenos, and brisket burnt ends, meat that is double smoked for extra flavor and texture. You can also sample ribs, sausage, and chicken, served with sides like loaded baked potatoes topped with smoked meats, fried mac and cheese, dirty rice, collard greens, and coleslaw. The location also has a take-out menu available if you want to eat at home. Dessert options include homemade chocolate chip cookies and pecan pie. Pappa Charlie's BBQ Started as a food truck, Papa Charlie's BBQ recently opened a brick-and-mortar location on Rusk Street because of its popularity. It's a veteran-owned business with a menu that includes delicious options such as boudin, brisket, chicken, turkey, ribs, and sausage. Side dishes pair well with the smoky and flavorful meats, like pinto beans, potato salad, spicy slaw, mac and cheese, and greens. Get there early to pick your favorites because if menu items sell out, they're gone for the day. With so many delicious spots to choose from, it's easy to find a place to enjoy your next BBQ meal in Houston. This photo, " Brother Jimmys Ribs,” by Eric Kilby used under CC BY-SA 2.o. " Brother Jimmys Ribs " is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.o by Gay Family Kia.

When you are going out for a day on the town or just on your regular commute to work, remember to take care of your car in the desert heat. By following some of the tips below you can possibly save some money on new paint jobs, and save yourself from the blazing Texas sun. more Exterior There are ways to take care of the exterior of your car in the hammering sunlight. The easiest way to keep your car's paint looking as new as possible is to simply keep it clean. By washing your car and removing the dirt and dust, you will let the protective top coat of the paint do its job and block out UV rays from the sun. Another way to reduce damage caused by the sun's UV rays is to wax your car regularly. If you apply high-quality waxes, your car will have a thicker protective coat against the elements. Interior One of the simplest ways to keep your car's interior from fading due to direct sunlight is to buy a sun shade. Sun shades will block sunlight from coming in through the windshield and will protect the front interior of your car. If you tint the rest of the car windows you will be able to block out the sun all the way throughout the car. By shielding your car from UV rays you will save the car's interior from fading, and from excessive heat causing the dash and other plastics to crack. Temporary Fixes If you are looking for a way to get out of the Texas sun and don't have a sun shade or tinted windows, you can always look for a parking spot in the shade. You should crack your windows as well to help release some of the hot air in your vehicle. The excessive heat that builds up in your car with the windows up can actually cause your touchscreen to malfunction, and other electrical devices to stop working. It can also cause the plastic areas to sag if they stay exposed for extended periods of time. Long-Term Parking When you park your car for an extended amount of time, whether it's for weeks or months, you will need to pay extra attention that your vehicle has what it needs to go undamaged. To best protect against the heat, investing in a car cover would be the most practical choice. This way the car's paint won't fade while you're gone. These tips can save money for you in the long run, and provide comfort by lessening the heat levels in your car. By shielding your car from harmful UV rays you will extend the life of your car's paint job. The interior will also be protected from the excess heat, which will help prevent damage to the dashboard and electronics in the car. Just because you live in the desert doesn't mean your vehicle's paint and interior should look like they belong in a Mad Max film. This photo, " Morris Minor 1000,” by Patrick Cain used under CC BY 2.o. " Morris Minor 1000 " is licensed under CC BY 2.0 by Gay Family Kia.

Choosing car insurance is a very important decision to make for your vehicle and your family. Not only do you need insurance for legal reasons, it can cover all of your expenses if you happen to get involved in an accident so that you won't have to pay anything out-of-pocket. By asking the right questions and finding out the basic fundamentals, you will be able to make a sound decision for all of your insurance needs. more Reputation Before getting too far into your search for the right car insurance company, you should look into each provider's reputation. Every insurance provider offers their own types of insurance at their own rates. While checking on a provider's reputation, you should always check to make sure that the companies you are looking into are legitimate companies and not scammers. If you get into an accident you will want to make sure that your company is legitimate, and will be there when you need them. You can start finding out more about the provider by looking through your state's website for insurance providers. The easiest way to see how people feel about each provider is to check with the Better Business Bureau. Type of Coverage When you are looking for car insurance you should check to see which type of insurance you are going to need. The three different types of coverage to consider are liability, collision, and comprehensive. Each of these types have their own benefits and prices. Each insurance company offers different plans, but not all of them offer each type of insurance. Liability insurance will give you the cheapest coverage, but it will only cover damages done by the party at fault. Collision insurance costs more and offers coverage for repairs needed after an accident, no matter who was at fault. If you decide to go with comprehensive insurance, then you will have coverage for everything from vandalism to theft, and usually from uninsured drivers. Quotes Once you lock in exactly what you need out of your policy and find a few providers you're interested in, the next step is to check quotes from each of them. After you find out the quotes you can compare which ones will suit your needs. Generally, you can receive quotes over the phone, online, or by visiting their offices and finding out in person. Most of these providers offer bundles, and if you are searching for any other types of insurance at the same time you might get a better deal. Choosing an insurance provider can involve an overwhelming amount of information. While you are searching for the right insurance provider just remember to take it step by step. The more time you spend searching out much information about different providers, the more information you will have to make the best decision possible. Keep in mind that most companies offer rate discounts that increase the longer you're with them, so try to choose the right one for you and stick with it. This photo, " Car Insurance,” by Pictures of Money used under CC BY 2.o. " Car Insurance " is licensed under CC BY 2.0 by Gay Family Kia.

The 2017 Kia Sorento will be the first model to include Apple's all new CarPlay technology already built into the vehicle design. The car will also support navigation units that will support CarPlay's new technology. This will be the safest way to connect your iOS phone to a vehicle and will give you several features using voice command, so looking at your phone while driving will no longer be necessary. Ease of use, convenience, and enhanced safety are only a few easy steps away. more What Is Apple CarPlay? Apple CarPlay is a unique way for iOS users to connect their phone to the car, and will provide access to the important information that your phone holds. The 2017 Sorento will be the first Kia to have integrated CarPlay technology. This will allow you to send and receive messages, use navigation, access music playlists, answer and make calls, and use Siri, all on the in-car display and accessible with voice commands. The new technology will be very useful, but one of the key questions will be how to connect your phone. As frustrating as it is to connect devices sometimes, the steps below will show you exactly what you will need to do to connect your iOS to this new system. Requirements To connect to CarPlay you will need to have an iPhone 5 or newer with at least iOS 7.1 installed. You will need to make sure that Siri is on, which you can find through the settings menu, general settings, then you can turn on Siri from this screen. If this is already done you will have everything you need to connect your phone. Setup Plug the phone into the USB port provided for CarPlay. The car will have a USB port with either a smartphone or the CarPlay icon on it. Start the car and leave the car running throughout the process. Open Siri and ask Siri to "Connect to CarPlay." You can either access Siri by holding the home button of your iPhone, or by pressing and holding the Voice Command button on your steering wheel of your 2017 Sorento. Siri should then start the process and integrate information from your smartphone to the car. That's it! You're done! Still Not Working? With Siri still on, restart your car and the iPhone. Connect to another USB port and use a different cable if either or both are available. Make sure that you have the latest software version of iOS on your iPhone. Check for firmware updates on your stereo, and check the user manual for your car. These are the most efficient ways to connect your iPhone to the 2017 Kia Sorento's integrated version of Apple's CarPlay. Using this new technology will ensure that you can drive safely and still receive all your emails, texts, and calls without having to look at your phone. Enjoy making new playlists and even having Siri create some new ones for you while you drive, all via voice command. This photo, " Apple CarPlay,” by smoothgroover22 used under CC BY-SA 2.o. " Apple CarPlay " is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0 by Gay Family Kia.

You should always have some essentials in your Kia in case of an emergency. The right supplies can also make a road trip or just getting where you need to go a lot easier. Keep these things in your car for safety and convenience. more 1. Tire Supplies A spare tire comes with most cars, but you also need a tire iron, a lug wrench, and a tire jack to change a tire yourself. Use WD-40 to loosen bolts and work gloves to keep your hands clean. If the damage is minor, you can use tire sealant as a temporary fix until you get to an auto shop. In case you get a flat tire at night, you should also keep a flashlight with extra batteries or a small lantern in your car. Kia vehicles have had TPMS or tire pressure monitoring systems since 2006. Sensors in the wheels monitor tire pressure and a warning light on the dashboard comes on when the pressure is low in any of the tires. To find out which of your tires needs air, buy an inexpensive tire pressure gauge. After you find the low tire, go to a gas station and add more air. Use your gauge to let you know when to stop. 2. Jumper or Booster Cables If you forget to turn an interior light off, you leave your headlights on, or you don't shut a door all the way, you could end up stranded with a dead battery. With jumper cables, someone else can start your car for you and you can help others in the same situation. If you don't want to wait for a good Samaritan, you can carry an emergency battery booster. 3. Your Owner's Manual The owner's manual should already be in your glove compartment, but replacements are easy to find. It provides detailed information on useful tasks like changing a tire, charging a dead battery, and reading warning lights. It also tells you how often you should have your car serviced. 4. Food and Medical Supplies You could be stuck on the side of the road for several hours while you wait for a tow truck. Keep some water and nonperishable snacks like granola bars in case you or your children get hungry or thirsty, and don't forget toilet paper to clean up after messy kids. You could need it in a roadside bathroom as well. With a basic first aid kit, you can treat yourself after a minor accident and help other people who are injured. You should also keep a few extra doses of any medications you use. It's also a good idea to keep a paper copy of emergency contact numbers. You'll need the phone number of a local towing company and the address of a repair shop if anything goes wrong, and you won't be able to get the information from your cell phone if it goes dead. Don't try to change a tire or make other repairs if you're next to a busy highway. It's best to wait for help, and being ready will make the experience much easier. This photo, " Correct Trunk,” by State Farm used under CC BY 2.o. " Correct Trunk " is licensed under CC BY 2.o by Gay Family Kia.

The new 2017 Kia Niro is a hybrid utility vehicle. Combining the practicality of a smaller version of a crossover with fuel-efficient "green" style makes the Niro a welcome change to the lineup. Here are a few reasons the Niro makes the grade and elevates hybrid cars to a whole new level. Style and Design As Kia's first dedicated hybrid car, you might think you already know what to expect as far as looks. In this case, a green car does not equal the same old style seen from other makers. The Kia Niro embraces a clean and attractive look. The broad and low proportions, and the signature Tiger Nose grille up front are nice touches. Its appearance is that of a regular car, not a hybrid "green vehicle." The Kia is smaller than the Sportage but appears like a compact crossover. With this new design, one of the advantages it offers is a more impressive view to the outside. more The Niro's appearance implements contemporary design influences that give an overall clean and smooth look. The interior shows a slightly more upscale look than found in other compact Kia models. Kia made comfort the principal concern when designing the Niro's interior. The seat positioning is higher up, providing for easier access all around. There are denser materials provided in the seat cushions for long road trip support. By cleverly concealing the lithium-ion battery pack under the back seats, cargo and cabin space are maximized. For a quieter ride sheltered from the road noise, the wind, and the outside, more sound insulation and an acoustic windshield are helpful. Additionally, so you can't hear the hybrid drivetrain noises, there are special engine mounts and dampers placed inside the hubs for the steering wheel to reduce vibrations. Green Vehicle Kia's enthusiastic goal with this model is to put the "sport" back in sport utility vehicles' design and style. While hybrid vehicles now on the road look enough alike to create a stereotype, Niro nailed it with this "un-hybrid" look. The only way to tell this is a hybrid vehicle is to look at the gas bill. Gas mileage on the Niro tests at an impressive 50 miles per gallon. Since gas prices are down, that adds up to even more savings at the pump. Overall, this adds significant value. Technology The hybrid drivetrain isn't the only technology worth talking about in the Niro. Other available features include safety additions like blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, and a lane departure warning. If you like entertainment options, you won't be disappointed here. Kia's UVOC system has seven-inch touch screen technology. You also have choices of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. If you like driving a green car, but don't need everyone to know it, take a look at the Niro. The new styling not only doesn't scream hybrid, but it also looks like a clean, attractive, regular car. You'll still get the benefits of going green without the stereotype of looking like all the other guys. This photo, " Kia presenta il suo cross over ibrido Kia Niro,” by Automobile Italia used under CC BY 2.o. " Kia presenta il suo cross over ibrido Kia Niro " is licensed under CC BY 2.0 by Gay Family Kia.

Summertime is a great time to buy a car, and Gay Family Kia is the place to do it! We have the best selection of new Kias in the south Texas area in all the hottest color and trim levels. Are you in the market for a car, SUV, or minivan? We have it! Our family-owned dealership is known for great customer service, and we want to make you our next customer. The Award J.D. Power recently released their 2016 Initial Quality Study, and Gay Family Kia couldn’t be more proud! Two Kias were selected as award recipients. The 2016 Kia Soul was awarded the Highest Ranked Compact Multi-Purpose Vehicle in Initial Quality, and the 2016 Sportage was awarded the Highest Ranked Small SUV in Initial Quality. more How It Gets Awarded The J.D. Power Initial Quality Study measures new vehicle quality at 90 days of ownership. This industry benchmark has proven an excellent predictor of long term reliability which impacts purchase decisions. The study examines problem areas in eight categories – exterior, seats, driving experience, engine/transmission, features/controls/displays, interior, HVAC, and audio/communication/navigation. The J.D. Power Initial Quality Study provides insight to manufacturers and consumers regarding – most problem-free experience in new models, quality differences among import and domestic models, and quality differences among new versus old model design. Celebrate With Us! To celebrate this accomplishment, Kia is celebrating and passing unbelievable savings on to their customers! For a limited time, Kia is offering the Top Quality Sales Event! We are currently offering - 0% APR up to 66 months PLUS an additional $1000 cash back applied as down payment on 2016 Optima, Optima Hybrid, Forte, Forte5, Soul Also, take advantage exceptional lease offers for the 2017 Sportage, 2017 Sorento, 2016 Optima and 2016 Forte. Come see us today and take advantage of these great offers! *Disclaimers 2016 Soul (!) exclaim, 2016 Optima Hybrid EX, 2016 Forte EX, 2016 Forte5 SX and 2016 Optima SX Limited with optional features shown. Some features may vary. Call 800-333-4KIA for details. 0% APR financing for 24-66 months from Kia Motors Finance on approved credit. Always drive safely and obey all traffic laws. Must take delivery by 9/6/16.

Road trips are an American tradition. Grab your car, a full tank of gas, and some road snacks, and your whole family is ready for a grand adventure. But the foundation of a great road trip is a reliable car. So before you head out on your next expedition, make sure you tend to these essential car maintenance checks. more Engine Temperature The worst thing that could happen to your car on a road trip is an overheated engine. For a couple weeks before your road trip, check your engine temperature occasionally while driving. Make sure it's in the normal range and hovering right around the middle of your dashboard temperature gauge. If it's creeping up towards the higher end, your radiator may need maintenance. To maintain a healthy radiator, first clean the radiator blades. This makes sure that no dirt or debris is obstructing the ventilation system. If your fan belt looks worn or has a lot of slack, swap it out for a new one. Top off your coolant, too, and it doesn't hurt to keep a spare bottle of coolant in the car for your journey. Tire Pressure Tire pressure is crucial for a safe road trip as a blown tire could result in a wreck. First, check your vehicle owner's manual for the proper tire pressure. You can also find this information on the sticker inside the driver's door. Keep a tire pressure gauge in the glove compartment so you can check your tire pressure in different conditions. You can find tire pressure gauges that are no bigger than a pencil and are easy to store. Check your tires at the coldest part of the day after your car has been still for a few hours, like first thing in the morning. If your tire pressure is too low, add air. Check your tire pressure again at the hottest part of the day and after you've been driving for at least 10 minutes. If your tire pressure is too high, you'll need to release some air. You can get air for your tires at most gas stations, often for free. Headlights When driving on unfamiliar roads, you'll rely heavily on your headlights. Plastic headlight covers become cloudy over time and can reduce the potency of your headlamps. While some headlight covers can be cleaned of dust and debris, others will need to be replaced in order to give you that all-important nighttime sight. Engine Oil If you haven't had your oil changed in a while, it's best to do it right before a road trip. Most cars need an oil change every 3,000 to 5,000 miles. Before you head out, check your oil level and clarity. When you pop the hood and pull up the dipstick, the oil level should be between those two black dots you see at the tip of the metal. If the oil is low, add the right oil to your reservoir. The oil should look a burnt orange color. If it's dark, you may need to change your oil altogether. You trust your car to get you from one place to another. And you should! While you're out on the open road with your family, you should be worried about enjoying the scenery and the sights, not your car. This photo, " _IMG_4079,” by Owen Iverson used under CC BY-NC-ND 2.o. " _IMG_4079 " is licensed under CC BY-NC-ND 2.0 by Gay Family Kia.

Oh, technology – saving us time and frustration for decades. While some inventions are more technologically advanced than others, we all need a little help sometimes, even from the low-tech gadgets. Here are our favorite gadgets to upgrade your car to the most efficient, fun, and comfortable vehicle for you. more Tablet Headrest Mount Ever look over at the car next to you on the freeway and envy how docile the children in the back seat are as they watch Spongebob on the in-car television? You can have that same peace and your children can enjoy their favorite entertainment with a tablet headrest mount. Whether you have an iPad, Kindle Fire, Google Nexus, or Samsung tablet, you can mount it easily and securely on one of the front seat headrests and entertain everyone behind you for hours. Car Seat Gap Filler Every car comes with its own Bermuda triangle; it's that gap between the seat and your center console. That small space where the most useful items – cell phones, pens, credit cards, French fries – like to go and hide. But you can stop the maddening mishaps by filling that black hole with a car seat gap filler. Never again will you have to wedge your barely-too-short fingers into that gap while trying to keep your car in your own lane. A Multi-USB Charging Port Whether you're on a road trip with the whole family or heading to dinner with friends, everyone has a device they need charged. No more fighting over USB outlets and cables with a multi-USB charging port. You can pick one up with any number of ports to suit all of your passengers and gadgets. Car Desk If you're a busy working professional, you're on the phone all day, shuffling papers, trying to find that important contract, and trying to remember if you left your agenda in your desk, your car, or under the couch. But it is possible to keep it all straight with a car desk. With space for hanging files, a non-skid surface, and a convenient writing area, your car desk will help you maximize time and stay organized on the go. Bluetooth Car Locator We've all done it. You come out of a long movie or a shopping spree at the mall and you can't remember where you parked your car. You try to remember the section number that you forced yourself to memorize three hours ago, but to no avail. Now you'll never have to worry about losing your car in a sea of automobiles again with the Bluetooth car locator. Plug it into the cigarette lighter/charger in your car and it will send a signal to your phone telling you where you parked. And don't worry about forgetting your phone in your car. This little device will remind you to grab it before you lock the doors. Your car should suit your lifestyle. Just because it didn't come from the factory with twelve USB charging ports, an in-headrest DVD player, and a desk for your work on-the-go doesn't mean you can't upgrade your vehicle to your needs. This photo, " Like cheap mod,” by N0fX used under CC BY-NC-ND 2.o. " Like cheap mod " is licensed under CC BY-NC-ND 2.0 by Gay Family Kia.