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When you switch on your AC, you expect it to provide refreshingly cold air. The AC consists of several components, including the compressor, condenser, and receiver-dryer, which can fail due to age or be damaged by wear and tear or accidents. As your Kia dealer, we can fix any AC problem for you. These are some examples of an AC not working that we can repair. Jammed Compressor Clutch The compressor is the most important part of your AC, as it pushes air and refrigerant through the system, so the air can be chilled before it blows into your cabin. It switches on and off several times during the process, and it's controlled by the compressor clutch. If it's quiet and you listen carefully, you may hear the slight click as the clutch works. The clutch can wear out as it ages, causing it to jam. If the clutch jams in the on position, the compressor will continue to work and burn itself out. A clutch that jams in the off position prevents the AC from starting, and no air will blow into your cabin. Our technicians will examine the clutch, and we can quickly replace it so the AC will work again. Refrigerant Leak Refrigerant is the gas used in your AC. It converts from a gas to a liquid and then back to a gas during the cooling process. In its liquid state, the refrigerant absorbs water from the air so the air can be chilled. The AC operates under high pressure, and any damage to the system from rust or hard objects thrown up from the surface can cause a refrigerant leak. If a leak develops, the refrigerant vanishes in contact with the outside air. We test for system leaks using a UV dye that we add to the refrigerant. Our technicians then monitor the refrigerant's passage through the AC using a UV viewer until they find the leak site. Once the leak is identified, we'll spell it and refill your refrigerant. No Airflow If you switch on the AC and there's no airflow, this usually means a blockage in one of the vents. Air enters the AC through a vent positioned below the windshield. As time passes, this vent can become clogged with dirt, leaves, and other debris, preventing air from reaching the system. The vents leading into your cabin can also become blocked by debris drawn in with the air. We'll check the vents and remove any blockages, and your AC will deliver cold air again. We can also fix issues like blown fuses or broken fan blades, which could also prevent air from blowing into your cabin. If your AC isn't working, contact our service department today at Courtesy Kia in Altoona, PA.

Every Kia driver needs a reliable dealership where they can get Kia services to keep their car in great condition. A dealership specializing in Kia vehicles is always the way to go, as the mechanics there understand Kia models better than any general mechanic. 1. Fluid Changes Various fluids keep your car running. Oil, brake fluid, differential fluid, and so many more need to have their levels maintained. These fluids also need to be changed out at different intervals. You should check your fluid levels at home and stop by the dealership when one of them needs to be topped off. Make sure you also stick to a regular service schedule so the fluids can be flushed as needed. Oil needs to be changed the most often; usually once or twice a year. 2. Belt and Hose Replacements The belts and hoses in your vehicle have very important jobs. For example, the serpentine belt operates the alternator, water pump, steering pump, and A/C compressor. Hoses carry fuel, coolant, and power steering fluid around. Loose and frayed belts can potentially cause a breakdown, and weak hoses can spring leaks. That's why it's important that all of these components are replaced regularly. Your dealer can easily do that for you. 3. Engine Diagnostic If the check engine light comes on, but your car isn't having performance issues, then any number of things could be wrong with the vehicle. That's why you need to visit the dealer for an engine diagnostic. The mechanics at your local dealership have all the right equipment and experience to run an engine diagnostic and figure out what's wrong with your car. They also have all the knowledge needed to fix the problem when it's diagnosed. 4. Battery Services Car batteries need to be checked on at the dealership every few months. Your mechanic needs to check the acid and enzyme levels and perform a load test. These tests let the mechanic determine the state of the battery's health. Sometimes your battery will have stratification that needs to be fixed. You have to replace the battery every few years, too. Your dealer can handle the replacement when it's needed. 5. General Automotive Repair You're bound to need a few car repairs over the years. Your local Kia dealership can handle the repairs regardless of what needs to be fixed. Is your radiator broken? No problem. Do you need a new starter motor? That's an easy fix. Are your brakes faulty? The dealership can handle it. Come to Courtesy Kia in Altoona, PA to get all the services you need for your Kia. Head to our website and request a service appointment today.

An important part of diligent tire maintenance is routine tire rotations. When the tires of your car are regularly switched around, they stay more uniform in size and last much longer. There are also safety and vehicle performance benefits. Let's look in more detail at why you should schedule rotations twice a year at your local Kia dealership. Reduced Risk of Blowouts and Skids When tires wear unevenly, it results in unbalanced pressure against the road across the different wheels. This can reduce the traction of one or two wheels, which increases your chance of experiencing a skid. As just one or two tires wear down faster, they also become more at risk of being damaged or suffering a puncture. Regular rotation keeps all four tires even in size and tread depth, as they're designed to be, minimizing these safety hazards. Improved Vehicle Handling Cars are engineered to have perfectly aligned wheels of equal size. Uneven tire wear creates a mismatch in wheel size, which can hamper your handling in various ways. Your steering may become less precise and responsive, while the lessened traction reduces your confidence when accelerating and cornering. With routine rotations, you can keep your steering, handling, and confidence in top form. Extended Tire Longevity Uneven tire wear can also cause a set of tires to prematurely wear out unless the problem is corrected with regular rotations. The more uneven tires become, the worse your handling and safety risks get until eventually, you need to replace the full set of tires. This means spending a good deal more on new tires over the lifespan of your car. Lessened Road Noise and Roughness Additional road friction is created by uneven tires, which no longer roll smoothly in perfect unison against the road. This increased friction heightens both noise and vibrations, making for a less pleasurable driving experience. Better Gas Mileage The extra drag generated by uneven tires works against your car's engine power. As fuel efficiency diminishes, you'll find your car burning through more gas for each mile you travel. Tire Warranty Compliance It's generally advisable to keep warranties valid until they expire, which entails following the warranty's maintenance guidelines. Most tire warranties require routine rotations to remain valid, which makes sense given how negatively uneven tire wear impacts tires. So if you wish to maintain the peace of mind that your warranty provides, routinely rotate your tires at your local dealership. Visit Altoona Courtesy Kia in Altoona, PA, today to have your car's tires inspected, rotated, or replaced by experienced technicians. We're a local full-service dealership providing the region's drivers with a terrific range of new and pre-owned vehicles along with top-notch maintenance services and courteous, personalized customer care.

You count on your headlights for more than just lighting up the night. They help keep you safe, letting other drivers see you, in the dark or stormy weather. Not sure when it's time to get new headlights from your Kia dealer? Let's check out the signs. Your Headlights Are Dimming One of the most common signs of headlight trouble can also be one of the hardest to spot. Dimming lights reduce your visibility on the road and make it harder for others to see you, but it often creeps up on you gradually. You might not notice that your lights are dimming until they've gotten very weak, so once you do, get them replaced right away. Your Headlights Give Uneven Light Notice one headlight shining brighter than the other? Both headlights need to provide equal illumination because uneven lighting can throw off your depth perception and reduce visibility. Plus, one headlight getting dimmer is often a sign that it's nearing the end of its life. It's better to get your bulbs replaced before they burn out completely. Your Headlights Are Flickering Headlights that flicker on and off on their own are a serious hazard. Flickering can be a sign of anything from a loose connection to a dying bulb, but if your lights are flickering there's a good chance they're preparing to go out completely. Bringing them in for a checkup before you can be stranded in the dark is the smart play. You Have To Keep Replacing Them Like any lightbulb, it's normal for headlight bulbs to burn out every so often. If you find yourself replacing them over and over, more frequently than you think you should, there's a chance you have a deeper electrical problem in your car that is causing them to fail prematurely. Your Headlights Are Yellow or Cloudy Over time, the lenses that cover your headlights can become yellowed or cloudy, typically due to exposure to strong ultraviolet rays. This haze diffuses the light, reducing its effectiveness and making your drive less safe. There's Water in Your Headlights Moisture or condensation inside your headlight assembly is never a good sign. If you see water inside your lights, there's a good chance the seal is broken. Moisture inside your headlights can lead to electrical issues, so don't delay having it checked out by a pro. Your Headlights Are Cracked or Damaged This one's obvious. If you take a look at your headlights and see that they are cracked, broken, or visibly damaged, they need to be replaced. Any physical damage to your headlights offers entry to moisture and dirt, which can only make things worse in the headlight department. Headlights are your first line of defense for driving safely through the night, rain, or snow. If you've noticed signs of trouble, call Altoona Courtesy Kia in Altoona, PA, and let us take a look at your headlights.

Is it time for an oil change at the Kia dealership? Don't skip this important maintenance task, because getting the oil swapped out regularly does some great things both for your Kia and for your wallet. Keeping Things Lubricated Firstly, engine oil plays a critical role in lubricating the moving parts of an engine, and that's something you really need. That engine gets hot! Over time, oil deteriorates due to heat and friction and loses its effectiveness. Regular changes ensure that the engine's components are not subjected to excessive wear and tear, which can lead to costly repairs down the line. Keeping Things Clean Secondly, oil acts as a cleaning agent inside the engine. It picks up dirt, debris, and other contaminants that can accumulate over time, and this is significant to maintaining the smooth operation and efficiency your Kia is known for. If the oil is not changed out regularly, these contaminants can build up, causing sludge. This sludge can then clog the engine's parts, leading to reduced efficiency and potentially causing significant damage. Keeping Things Affordable Thirdly, regular oil changes can significantly enhance your fuel efficiency. A well-lubricated engine runs more smoothly and faces less internal resistance, which translates to better fuel economy. This is especially beneficial if you care about driving economical and environmentally friendly car models. You'll enjoy a cost savings in fuel and also lower your vehicle's environmental impact when you get fresh oil on a regular basis. Keeping Your Warranty Good Regular essential maintenance is necessary to maintain the manufacturer's warranty, and you'll need to follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule to ensure that happens. Otherwise, you might end up bearing the full cost of repairs that would otherwise have been covered. Keeping Your Whole Kia Healthy When you come in to change out the oil, you also offer us an opportunity for a professional inspection of the vehicle. During oil changes, our technicians can spot issues that may not be immediately apparent to the driver. This preventative maintenance aspect is important because early detection of problems can prevent more severe and expensive issues in the future. Keeping Your Resale Value High Lastly, consider the resale value of your car. Regular maintenance records demonstrate to potential buyers that the car has been well cared for, which can be a significant selling point. There's a lot of good reasons you want to get the oil changed out on time (as well as perform other basic maintenance tasks), whether that's to ensure you get the most for your trade in later or just to ensure you're never paying a dime more in gas than you need to. If it's time for service, come see us at Courtesy Kia in Altoona, PA today!

Your transmission is a crucial component that ensures smooth shifting between gears, providing a comfortable and efficient driving experience. Like any other part of your car, the transmission can encounter issues. Understanding when you need transmission repair at the Kia dealership is key to maintaining your car's health and performance. Difficulty Shifting Gears You might notice the gear shift is not as smooth as it used to be, or there might be hesitation before the car engages into drive or reverse. In manual transmissions, the clutch may feel different, and shifting might require more effort or result in grinding noises. Unusual Noises Keep an ear out for any unusual sounds from your vehicle. If you hear whining, buzzing, or humming noises, especially in neutral, these could indicate transmission issues. Such sounds may not always be present in every gear, but noticing them is a reason to have your Kia checked out. Leaking Fluid Transmission fluid plays a vital role in keeping transmission components cool and lubricated. If you spot a red, sweet-smelling fluid under your car, it could be transmission fluid. Ignoring it can lead to further damage due to insufficient lubrication and cooling. Transmission Warning Light Most Kias come equipped with sensors that monitor the health of your transmission. If there's a problem, the transmission warning light on your dashboard will illuminate. While it might indicate something as simple as a sensor malfunction, it's best to get it checked to rule out serious transmission issues. Slipping Gears Your transmission is supposed to stay in the chosen gear until a change is initiated. If your Kia's transmission is slipping, meaning it changes gears randomly or falls into neutral without your input, it's a significant safety risk and a sign of transmission trouble. This can also manifest as a lack of acceleration or a noticeable decrease in fuel efficiency. Delayed Response A healthy transmission will engage quickly and smoothly when you shift out of park into drive or reverse. If there's a delay or a long pause before your Kia responds, it's known as delayed engagement. This delay can be brief, but any hesitation is a symptom of transmission issues. Burning Smell A burning smell coming from your vehicle is a red flag for several potential issues, including transmission problems. Overheating transmission fluid can produce a burned odor. Get Transmission Repair at Your Kia Dealership Preventing transmission issues starts with regular maintenance, including routine checks and fluid changes as recommended in your Kia's owner's manual. Ignoring maintenance schedules can lead to premature wear and tear on your transmission, resulting in the need for expensive repairs or even a complete replacement. Recognizing the signs that your Kia needs help with its transmission is crucial to keep your car running as long as it should. Call Altoona Courtesy Kia in Altoona, PA, to schedule service for your transmission.

Do you know the signs that your car needs an alternator repair? It's a good idea to learn how to tell your alternator is in disrepair, as that'll help you get to the Kia dealer sooner to get it fixed. Battery Warning Light A battery-shaped warning light will illuminate on your dashboard if your car's electrical system is having problems. As soon as this comes on, head to the dealer to find out what the problem is. It often indicates problems with your alternator, but it can be a sign of other problems, too. Headlight Problems A faulty alternator can cause problems with your headlights. Commonly, alternator problems result in dimmer headlights. A faulty alternator can also make your headlights flicker, or it could cause them to become brighter when you rev the engine. Make sure you head to the dealer once it's bright enough to drive without your headlights on. Dead Battery An alternator that's in disrepair may not be able to charge your battery sufficiently. This leads to a dead battery, and therefore, trouble starting your car. Although, if you jumpstart your car, and your car remains on, then your alternator probably isn't the problem. However, you will need to visit the dealer to get your battery checked. Faulty Accessories The accessories in your car, such as the radio, power seats, power windows, and USB ports get their power supply from the battery. An alternator that's having problems can't supply the battery with enough power to keep all the accessories running, leading to faulty accessories. However, if just one of your accessories stops working but the rest are fine, then your car may have a blown fuse. Unusual Noises A rubbing or misaligned drive belt may make a whining or growling sound. Other problems, such as a bad rotor shaft or failed bearings, can also result in whining or growling noises. Make sure you take a little time out of every drive to listen for strange noises, as different components of your car make different noises when there's something wrong. Burning Smell If there's a burning smell coming from the engine, then it could be down to your alternator. The drive belt or other components of the alternator may be damaged. Stalling Engine Your battery will eventually run out of power if your alternator can't charge it. This leads to your engine stalling. Even if you jumpstart your battery, it won't stay running for long, as your alternator can't charge it to keep it supplied with power. Stop by Courtesy Kia in Altoona, PA if you notice any of the signs above. Our factory-trained technicians can get your alternator back in great shape in no time.

There are many types of car maintenance you should regularly visit your Kia dealership for. Oil changes, fluid top-ups, brake checks, and many more services are essential to keeping your car running smoothly for many years to come. 1. Maintain Your Fluid Levels Cars contain many fluids that keep them running smoothly. If any of these fluid levels get too low, then your car can't perform at its best. Check your fluids at home regularly, and visit the dealer any time one of them needs to be topped off. Make sure you visit the dealer for routine maintenance regularly, too, as they'll check your fluid levels during this maintenance. One form of maintenance you need approximately every six months is an oil change, and other fluids also need to be changed out periodically. 2. Keep Your Car Clean and Shiny Cars should be kept clean of dirt and salt. Both of these substances can be damaging to your paint job and underbody. Take your car to be washed as often as possible, and look into getting a protective coating to protect your paint job. Not only will your car look better if it's clean and shiny, but it'll be healthier. 3. Keep Replacing Old Parts Old belts, window wipers, and filters should be replaced every few months. Your owner's manual outlines a mileage-based service schedule that you should stay on top of, as replacing these old parts on schedule makes sure your car stays running well. 4. Keep on Top of Your Tire Health Check your tire pressure regularly and top up the air in them as needed. Visit the dealer for tire rotations every six months, and make sure you also get your wheels aligned and balanced. Check your tire tread depth regularly, and replace your tires when the tread depth becomes too low. You need at least 1/16 of an inch of tire tread to drive safely, but double that is even better. 5. Keep Out Of Stop-and-Go Traffic Avoid driving in too much heavy stop-and-go traffic if you can, as the frequent braking required for this type of driving isn't good for your braking system. Harsh braking compromises the health of the braking system, too. Make sure you get regular brake service, and always listen out for the high-pitched metallic shrieking sound that tells you when you need to get your brake pads replaced. Promptly replace your brake pads when you hear this noise. Following the tips above will make sure your car stays running smoothly for as long as you have it. Come and get all necessary preventative maintenance at Courtesy Kia in Altoona, PA.

If there is a problem with your car's brake system and any of the components break, it will severely affect your safety while driving. Pay attention to the following signs that will warn you when you need a brake repair from the certified technicians at your Kia dealer. 1. A Brake Warning Light Is On If there is an issue with your brake system, you will see the brake warning light or the Antilock Braking System (ABS) light turn on. If either of the lights is on, get repairs from your Kia technician as soon as possible to prevent your brakes from failing. 2. Your Brakes Squeal If you hear squealing when you step on the brake pedal, it's a warning from the wear indicator bars in the brake pads that they are worn down. Ask your Kia technician to measure the brake pads, and if they are less than a quarter-inch thick, replace them immediately for your safety. Ignoring this may damage other brake system components, which could cause expensive repairs. 3. You Hear Grinding Noises If you don't replace the brake pads soon after hearing the high-pitched warning sounds from the wear indicator bars in the brake pads, you may begin to hear awful grinding noises. The grinding comes from the brake pads that have worn down so much that the metal scrapes against the steel rotors. 4. Your Brake Pedal Vibrates The rotors may have warped if you experience vibrations or pulsations in the brake pedal. Rotors warp due to wear or when they get excessively hot. Warped rotors make uneven contact with the brake pads, causing the brake pedal to vibrate. 5. Your Car Pulls Sideways When You Brake It is important to note that brake pads do not wear down uniformly. One side may wear out at a faster rate than the other. When brake pads wear unevenly, or the brake fluid is old and dirty, it could result in your car pulling to either the left or the right when you step on the brake pedal. 6. You Notice Yellow or Brown Puddles Under Your Car Yellow or brown puddles on the ground under your car could indicate a brake fluid leak. Brake fluid is critical in ensuring your brakes function correctly. Insufficient brake fluid could cause brake failure. Getting the leak repaired right away is imperative. Your brake system is one of your Kia's most important safety features. If your brakes are not functioning correctly, call Courtesy Kia in Altoona, PA, now. Our certified Kia technicians will perform professional repairs to ensure your brakes work as they should every time you step on the brake pedal.

Your Kia's radiator has the important role of removing heat from the engine and replacing it with cooler air from the outside. The fast-moving engine components and combustion process generate large amounts of heat, which must be removed to prevent engine damage. As your Kia dealer, we'd like to tell you about some of the signs that you may need to visit us for a radiator repair. Coolant Leak Coolant is a mixture of water and antifreeze, and its purpose is to collect heat from the engine and transport it to the radiator for removal. The coolant operates under high pressure and at high speed, and the flow of coolant can be increased or decreased depending on the engine temperature. The high pressure, heat, and age can damage parts of the cooling system, and this can cause leaks. Worn seals, old radiator hoses, and rust on the radiator are three places coolant can leak from. If you spot a pool of pink, green, yellow, or blue liquid under your car, this confirms you have a coolant leak. If the leak continues, the engine temperature will rise to dangerous levels, and sensitive components like the head gasket and engine seals will be damaged. We'll trace the leak and seal it, then refill the coolant. Worn Radiator Cap The radiator cap is tightly secured to the top of the radiator. It helps to maintain a high pressure in the cooling system and to prevent leaks. The fast movement of hot coolant can increase the pressure in the system. If this happens, the radiator cap temporarily opens to bleed off the excess pressure and then closes again. The cap is tightly screwed into the radiator and has two seals to ensure that the cooling system remains airtight. Over time, the heat and pressure can damage these seals, and coolant will leak out. Leaking coolant causes the system pressure to fall, which slows down the movement of the remaining coolant, and your engine temperature will rise. We'll examine the cap and its seals and repair or replace them to fix this issue. Failed Thermostat Coolant doesn't automatically start flowing when your engine starts, as this would cause it to run too low a temperature to work efficiently. When the engine temperature reaches 185 F to 230 F, the thermostat registers this and opens to release coolant. The coolant is then pumped through the engine at high speed to maintain a safe operating temperature. An older thermostat can wear out and jam. If the thermostat jams closed, it won't release coolant, and if it jams open, the engine temperature will drop too far, and you'll use more gas. We can quickly replace the broken thermostat to fix this problem. If your engine seems to be running hotter than it should, contact us today at Courtesy Kia.

Your Kia's car battery is the heart of your vehicle's electrical system, powering everything from the ignition to the lights. Knowing the signs that indicate a need for a new battery can save you from unexpected breakdowns and costly repairs. Here are some tips from your local Kia dealer on recognizing the key indicators that your Kia might need a new car battery. Slow Engine Crank A healthy battery will start the engine promptly as soon as the key is turned in the ignition. If the engine is sluggish when you turn the key, or it takes longer to start than it usually does, it's a clear sign that your battery is struggling. The slow crank is often more noticeable during cold weather when the battery has to work harder. Check Engine Light The check engine light can signal various issues, including a weakening battery. If this light illuminates on your dashboard, it's advisable to get your battery checked, as it might be indicating that the battery is losing its charge or there are issues with the charging system. Swelling or Bloating Battery Case A battery case that appears swollen or bloated is a sign of excessive heat exposure, which can significantly decrease the battery's life. This change in the physical appearance of the battery often indicates that the battery is nearing the end of its useful life. Battery Age The age of your battery is a critical factor. Most car batteries are designed to last between 3 and 5 years. If your battery is nearing or has surpassed this age range, it's wise to have it tested and replaced if necessary to avoid being stranded with a dead battery. Electrical Component Issues If you start experiencing issues with your vehicle's electrical components – like dimming headlights, flickering dashboard lights, or malfunctioning accessories – it might be due to a failing battery. These components rely on the battery for power, and any inconsistency in this power source can lead to performance issues. If you notice any of these symptoms, it's important to get your battery checked immediately. We here at Altoona Courtesy Kia offer professional battery inspection and replacement services. Don't wait for a breakdown; visit Altoona Courtesy Kia today and ensure your vehicle is in top condition with a reliable battery. Remember, a healthy battery is not just for starting your car. It keeps all its electrical systems running smoothly, in conjunction with the alternator. Take action now and give your Kia the care it deserves so you always have a reliable start and a smooth ride.

When your Kia needs replacement parts, it's advisable to buy original ones from your local Kia dealership. OEM parts are designed and engineered based on the precise specifications of your Kia's model. They offer numerous benefits over aftermarket or generic parts from third-party manufacturers. 1. Perfect Fit and Integration The precise engineering behind original Kia parts ensures a precise fit. This guarantees that every replacement part integrates seamlessly with your vehicle without needing adjustments. The perfect fit ensures that the parts perform optimally, just like the original ones. Aftermarket parts may have an imperfect fit, which forces you to modify them so they can integrate with other vehicle parts. 2. High-Quality and Reliable Parts Thanks to Kia's stringent manufacturing standards, OEM components promise the same level of quality, durability, and reliability as the initial parts. All components undergo rigorous testing to expose defects while ensuring efficient performance standards. This is unlike aftermarket parts that don't undergo any rigorous testing to ensure quality and reliability. When you use original parts, you are assured that the part will function without premature failure or substandard output. 3. Smooth and Convenient Ordering Process Purchasing OEM components is simple and convenient because most parts are available at the dealership. You don't have to scour the internet for options or risk buying an inferior component. All you need to do is shop for the specific original component at the dealership. If you need specialized parts that are not in the dealer's inventory, the technicians can order them for you directly from Kia. 4. Expert Installation at the Dealership Buying original parts from an authorized dealer means you can have them installed by Kia-trained technicians. These technicians understand every intricate system and component in your car. Their expertise translates into error-free installation of new components, which leads to improved performance and longevity. If you are replacing sensors, the technicians will recalibrate them to ensure proper functionality. 5. Kia Parts Warranty OEM Kia parts bought through the dealer come with a 12-month repair or replacement warranty. This provides coverage for both the component itself and labor costs if manufacturing defects arise. Aftermarket parts rarely come with a warranty. If the part fails prematurely, you must cover the replacement or repair expenses fully out-of-pocket. 6. Better Trade-In Value OEM replacement parts function the same way as the original parts, so they don't detract from your car's value. What's more, buyers show more interest in a car if its maintenance history shows that only original parts have been used for repairs. When the time comes to sell or trade in the Kia, you won't have trouble getting good returns from the sale. ​ Original Kia parts are the best choice over aftermarket ones for all vehicle repairs. Contact Altoona Courtesy Kia today to order OEM components and have them installed at the dealership.