Why Should I Rotate and Balance My Tires?
Keeping your tires in tip-top shape is important for long-term wear. Getting your tires balanced and rotated aids in longevity and serves a critical role in your safety while driving.
The Importance of Rotating and Balancing
- Rotation – The act of rotating your tires is moving your tires to different positions than where they have been for an amount of time. This will help to ensure even tire wear because each tire wears differently based on which position it has been in. This also allows for less stress on your tires overall and can even improve your fuel economy. We recommend having your tires rotated about every 5,000 miles.
- Balancing – Tire balancing means properly distributing weights on your tires to ensure balance. Various factors, like uneven tire pressure or road conditions, can throw off the weight distribution of your wheels. You can tell if your tires need balancing if you experience shaky driving or annoying vibrations. We recommend getting them done if you notice these problems while driving. You can expect a better driving experience when you have your tires balanced!
Schedule Your Service Appointment at Thelen Kia in Michigan
If it’s time to have your tires rotated or balanced, be sure to schedule your service appointment with Thelen Kia in Bay City, Michigan. Our expert Kia-trained service technicians are ready to assist you in getting your Kia vehicle safely back on the road.
(Photo Credit: PEXELS)
Get to Know the 2026 Kia K5
2026 Kia K5 Overview
The 2026 Kia K5 stands out as a sleek, mid-size sports sedan. It pairs sharp styling with strong performance and modern tech. From daily driving in Mid-Michigan snow to highway cruising between Saginaw and Midland, the K5 offers both confidence and flair.
Exterior Design
- Sporty silhouette with bold lines
- Alloy tire sizes ranging from 16” to 19” depending on trim level
- Multi-reflector LED headlights provide focused, clear illumination, while LED taillights improve vehicle visibility
- GT trim features add-ons like gloss black 19-in. alloy wheels and quad exhaust tips
Performance
- 2.5 L 4-cylinder engine for 191 hp and 181 lb ft of torque
- GT adds a turbocharged 2.5L 4-cylinder with 290 hp and 311 lb-ft of torque
- 8 -speed automatic transmission on most trims / GT adds 8-speed dual-clutch transmission
- Drive modes include Normal, Sport, and My Drive with the GT-Line AWD adding Snow mode
Interior & Comfort
- Comfortable seating for five
- Dual zone automatic climate control
- 10-way power driver’s seat and heated front seats on all but LXS trim
- 12.3” touchscreen infotainment system control, with navigation added on most trims
- Six-speaker audio system, with the EX trim level adding a 12-speaker Bose premium audio system
- Wireless Apple CarPlay® / Android Auto™
- Kia Connect Smart Connectivity System
Safety Features
- Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist with Pedestrian, Cyclist & Junction Turning Detection
- Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist
- Park Distance Warning
- Lane Departure Warning and Lane Keeping Assist
- Blind-Spot Collision Avoidance Assist
Industry-Leading Warranty
- 10-year / 100,00-mile limited powertrain warranty
- 5-year / 60,000-mile limited basic warranty
- 5-year / 60,000-mile limited anti-perforation warranty
- 5-year / 60,000-mile roadside assistance plan
Learn More About the 2026 Kia K5 Today
Ready to learn more about the exciting 2026 Kia K5? Visit Thelen Kia in Bay City, MI—serving the Great Lakes Bay Region— and let us tell you more about the available trim levels of this sedan.
Thelen Kia is the Place to Go in Michigan for Kia Servicing
If you want absolute confidence that the technicians working on your Kia and the components used during the service are suited for your vehicle, join the many local mid-Michigan Kia drivers who bring their family cruisers to the Service Center at Thelen Kia in Bay City, MI. We make sure that when your family vehicle is in our care, it is treated as if it were one of our own. This commitment to excellence is why we have become a go-to destination for quality work. See why we are trusted by our customers when they want to ensure their Kia is being handled by the best in mid-Michigan by scheduling an appointment with us today.
Reasons Why the Thelen Kia Service Center is a Great Choice
- Knowledgeable Service Technicians – When you know that the technicians working on your vehicle have the training to confidently work on your vehicle, it is an easy decision to take it to that destination. This is why we make sure that our Service Center staff can efficiently and effectively work on any modern Kia model. They are also happy to speak with you about any concerns you might have regarding services done on your vehicle.
- OEM Kia Parts – The difference between aftermarket parts and quality OEM Kia parts can be significant. You get much more reliability and overall performance from OEM Kia parts as opposed to aftermarket ones. When you bring your vehicle to Thelen Kia, we make sure we are using OEM Kia parts and other brand-recommended components to maximize the performance and longevity of your Kia after its time with us is done.
- Convenience – Being a convenient option for you in your busy schedule is our mission at Thelen Kia. We are open convenient hours throughout the week, starting at 8:30 am and even on Saturday (from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.), to meet your hectic lifestyle. Located in Bay City, we are a short drive from many communities such as Grand Blanc, Midland, and Saginaw. As such, we are happy to accommodate the needs of those in our local area who deserve the dependable service on their Kia that Thelen Kia is happy to offer.
Get to Know the 2026 Kia Seltos
2026 Kia Seltos Overview
The 2026 Kia Seltos continues to establish itself as a standout choice in the competitive subcompact SUV segment, offering Mid-Michigan drivers a compelling blend of style, technology, and value. This versatile crossover delivers the practicality families need with the modern features today’s drivers expect, making it an excellent choice for navigating both Bay City’s urban streets and the diverse terrain of Central Michigan’s Great Lakes Bay Region.
Exterior Design
The 2026 Seltos maintains Kia’s bold design philosophy while incorporating refined updates that enhance its sophisticated, yet athletic appearance.
- Sculpted body lines that create a dynamic, confident stance
- Wheel options ranging from 17-inch to 18-inch alloy designs across trim levels
- LED projector headlights
- Available dual-tone color combinations that emphasize the vehicle’s youthful energy
Performance
The 2026 Seltos offers two capable powertrains designed to meet different driving preferences and needs. Both engines deliver reliable performance well-suited for Michigan’s varied driving conditions:
- Base Engine: 2.0-liter four-cylinder producing 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque
- Standard on SX AWD trim level: 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder generating 190 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque
- Transmission: Intelligent Variable Transmission on most trims; 8-speed automatic transmission standard on SX trim
- Drivetrain Options: Front-wheel drive standard, all-wheel drive available on most trims and standard on SX
- Drive Mode Select: Normal, ECO, Sport
Fuel Efficiency
The Seltos delivers competitive fuel economy figures that help Michigan drivers manage fuel costs effectively.
- Base 2.0L FWD models: Estimated 28 MPG city/ 34 MPG highway
- Optional AWD: Estimated 27 MPG city/ 31 MPG highway
- Turbocharged SX AWD: Estimated 24 MPG city/ 27 MPG highway
Interior and Comfort
The 2026 Seltos interior emphasizes comfort and technology, creating a premium experience within the subcompact SUV segment. The cabin accommodates five passengers comfortably with generous space:
- Standard 8-inch or 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system, depending on trim
- Infotainment system with navigation and voice-recognition technology on all but base trim
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity standard on LX trim level
- Woven cloth or Syntex seat trim depending on trim level
- Dual level cargo floor offers a hidden storage space to keep your gear secure
- SX trim comes with standard Bose® premium audio system with connected mood lighting
Safety / Driver Assistance Features
Safety remains a priority for the 2026 Seltos, incorporating Kia’s advanced driver assistance technologies as standard equipment. The comprehensive safety suite includes:
- Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist with pedestrian, cyclist, and vehicle detection
- Lane Keeping Assist and Lane Following Assist
- Upper trim levels add Navigation-Based Smart Cruise Control with Stop & Go functionality, Rear Cross-Traffic Avoidance Assist, Blind Spot Collision Warning, and Safe Exit Warning
- Electronic Stability Control and Downhill Brake Control
Reliability and Warranty
Kia continues to back the Seltos with industry-leading warranty coverage, providing Mid-Michigan buyers with exceptional peace of mind. The comprehensive warranty package includes:
- 10-year/100,000-mile limited powertrain warranty
- 5-year/60,000-mile limited basic warranty
- 5-year/100,000-mile limited anti-perforation warranty
- 5-year/60,000-mile roadside assistance program
Learn More About the 2026 Kia Seltos in Bay City, Michigan
Ready to experience the 2026 Kia Seltos firsthand? Visit Thelen Kia in Bay City, MI today and discover why this versatile SUV is perfect for Mid-Michigan adventures. Our experienced team understands the unique driving needs of Central Michigan residents, from navigating Saginaw’s urban environment to exploring the scenic routes around Midland. Schedule your test drive today and see how the Seltos combines style, efficiency, and capability in one compelling package.
Feel Safe with Advanced Cruise Control in a New Kia
Depending on the model and trim level of the Kia vehicle you choose, you have access to impressive safety features like the Navigation-Based Smart Cruise Control with Stop and Go system. Feel safer and secure while you’re driving with helpful driver-assistive technologies! Below, we will go over this important feature and how it operates in your Kia vehicle.
Navigation-Based Smart Cruise Control with Stop and Go
Navigation-Based Smart Cruise Control can help drive at a certain speed according to the road conditions when driving on highways by using up-to-date road information from the navigation system while Smart Cruise Control is operating. This feature is available only on the controlled access road of certain highways. The system helps maintain a predetermined following distance from the detected vehicle in front, adjusting driving speed as needed, and can bring the vehicle to a complete stop and start again within 3 seconds of stopping.
Schedule Your Test Drive at Thelen Kia in Michigan
If you are looking for an affordable, quality Kia with the best in features, schedule a test drive at Thelen Kia in Bay City, Michigan. We can assist you in finding the perfect model and trim level with the best in advanced technologies like the Navigation Based Smart Cruise Control to make your mid-Michigan driving even safer! Give our expert staff a call at 989-357-7269 to schedule a test drive today.
Get to Know the 2026 Kia EV9 SUV
2026 Kia EV9 Overview
The 2026 Kia EV9 is a bold, all‑electric three‑row SUV that blends impressive range, modern design, and versatile functionality. With options spanning rear‑wheel‑drive to dual‑motor AWD and seating for up to seven, it’s ideal for buyers in Mid‑Michigan looking for spacious, eco‑friendly family travel or outdoor adventure.
Exterior Design
The EV9 presents a clean, sculpted, polygonal silhouette. Offered in various color choices. Key highlights:
- Bold, squared-off front fascia with unique LED signatures
- Smart Power Liftgate
- LED Projector Beam Headlights; Upper trim levels add Cube Project Headlights with digital pattern lighting grille
- Rain-sensing windshield wipers
Performance
Performance specs vary by drivetrain:
- Light RWD~201 hp and 258 lb. ft. of torque
- Ligh long‑range RWD: 215 hp and 258 lb. ft. of torque
- AWD models: 379 hp and 443 – 516 lb. ft of torque
Notable performance highlights:
- Regenerative Braking with steering wheel mounted paddles
- Drive Model Select includes Sport, Eco, Normal and My Mode in all models. The AWD models add Terrain modes, including Snow, Mud, and Sand.
Fuel Efficiency & Charging
- Light RWD: estimated 101 MPGe city / 76 MPGe highway / 88 MPGe combined – estimated 230 mile range
- Light Long Range RWD: estimated 100 MPGe city / 78 MPGe highway / 89 MPGe combined – estimated 305 mile range
- Wind AWD and Land AWD: estimated 94 MPGe city / 72 MPGe highway / 82 MPGe combined – estimated 283 mile range
- GT-Line AWD: estimated 92 MPGe city / 72 MPGe highway / 82 MPGe combined – estimated 280 mile range
Interior & Comfort
- Seating for six or seven, with optional captain’s chairs; One touch sliding and folding second row seats for easy access to third row
- Tri-zone auto climate control with auto de-fog system
- Quiet mode- allows sound system to be focused on the front row, providing a quieter experience for passengers in the second and third rows
- Eight-way power driver’s and front passenger’s seats
- Heated and ventilated front seats in all trim levels, with heated and ventilated second row seats on upper trims
- LED interior lighting
- 12.3” touchscreen infotainment display with navigation; 5” climate display
- Eight speaker audio system upgraded to a Meridian™ 14-speaker system in some trim levels
- Wireless Android Auto™ , Apple CarPlay® and phone charging capabilities
Safety Features
Exciting variety of standard driver assistance features including:
- Forward Collision Warning can detect and alert the drive to a potential frontal collision
- Blind‑Spot View Warning and Avoidance Assist can detect vehicles in another lane to prevent a lane changing collision
- Highway Driving Assist 2 (adaptive cruise + lane centering + assisted lane change)
- Lane Keeping and Following Assist can provide and alert and automatically assist to prevent the vehicle from unintentionally leaving the lane of travel
- Park Distance Warning (both front and rear) warns of potential collision with a vehicle or pedestrian
Reliability & Warranty
- 10‑year / 100,000‑mile limited powertrain and EV system warranty
- 5‑year / 60,000 miles limited basic warranty
- 5‑year / 60,000 miles roadside assistance plan
- 5-year / 60,000-mile limited anti-perforation warranty
Learn More About the 2026 Kia EV9 in Bay City, Michigan
Ready to elevate your electric SUV experience in Mid‑Michigan? Contact Thelen Kia in Bay City, MI to find out more about the 2026 EV9 trims. Whether you want the long‑range RWD for commuter comfort or AWD performance for handling snow and towing around Saginaw and Midland, you’ll find options built for your needs.
Celebrate Great Weather with a Detailing Appointment
Now is the perfect time to treat your Kia vehicle to full detailing! Give your vehicle a deep cleaning before your next road trip. Thelen Kia in Bay City, Michigan, can help you get your Kia in tip-top shape! Our experienced detailing technicians have the tools and knowledge to get your vehicle looking as good as new!
Detailing Services Available at Thelen Kia
- Express Detail – Wash, dry, and apply wax to the exterior of the vehicle. Complete window washing inside and out followed by tire dressing. Lastly, a thorough vacuuming of carpets and floor mats.
- Interior Detailing – Vacuum and steam clean carpets, mats, seats, and trunk. Clean and dress all interior panels, which include the dash, doors, center console, and more. Complete window washing inside and out.
- Full Reconditioning – Full wash and wax, buff exterior and remove light scratches, wheel cleaning and tire dressing, complete inside and out window washing, vacuum and steam clean carpets, floor mats, seats and trunk, and clean and dress all interior panels- including dash, doors, center console, cup holders and more!
- Paint Touch-Up – Touch up that minor stone chip or scratch. We offer a free no-obligation estimate!
- Headlight Resurfacing – Headlight resurfacing returns the clarity to the lenses as if they were new again. We’ll get yellowing, cloudy headlights cleaned again! This service includes the front left and front right headlights.
- Clay Bar and Wax – Get rid of that brake dust! It will make all the difference. Clay bar all brake dust and road debris off the paint exterior. Wash and wax included.
** View our full menu pricing here. We even offer detailing gift certificates! ** Call to schedule your appointment at 989-402-2314 today!
(Photo Credit: PEXELS)
Get to Know the 2026 Kia Carnival MPV Hybrid
2026 Kia Carnival MPV Hybrid Overview
The 2026 Kia Carnival MPV Hybrid redefines the minivan experience. It blends SUV‑inspired styling with hybrid efficiency, ideal for family travels around Central Michigan—from snowy winters to summer getaways along the Great Lakes Bay Region.
Exterior Design
Michigan drivers will appreciate its bold and functional design:
- SUV-like styling with rear spoiler and shark fin antenna
- 17″ or 19″ alloy wheels, depending on the trim level
- LED multi reflector headlights and LED running lights
- Unique Dark Edition trim offers dark accent exterior trim and 19” dark alloy wheels
Performance
Strong and efficient hybrid propulsion—perfect for highways and local commutes:
- 1.6-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine with full parallel hybrid system
- Turbocharged hybrid setup delivers 242 hp and 271 lb‑ft torque
- Available 2,500‑lb towing capacity makes it perfect for hauling small boats and campers for your Mid-Michigan adventures
- Efficient six-speed automatic transmission
- EPA-estimated 34 MPG city / 31 MPG highway / 32 MPG combined
Interior & Comfort
Spacious and tech-forward cabin with room for the whole family:
- Seating for up to 8 passengers
- Standard features include dual 12.3″ screen for infotainment system with navigation, tri-zone automatic climate control system, and heated front seats.
- Premium sound: 6‑ or 8-speaker system on most trims. Bose® 12‑speaker system standard on SX Prestige
- Wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto®
- Convenient Wi-Fi hotspot (subscription required)
- Either 4.2” instrument display or 12.3-inch curved version, depending on trim
Safety Features
Loaded with driver-assist tech to keep you safe on Michigan roads:
- Standard systems include: Blind‑Spot Collision-Avoidance, Forward Collision-Avoidance, Rear Cross-Traffic Avoidance-Assist, Park Distance Warning Front and Rear Sensors, Lane Departure Warning, Lane Keeping Assist and more!
- Innovative Highway Driving Assist, Intelligent Speed Limit Assist and Driver Attention Warning
Reliability & Warranty
Kia backs the Carnival Hybrid with 10‑year / 100,000‑mile limited powertrain coverage, 5‑year / 60,000‑mile limited basic warranty, 5‑year / 100,000‑mile limited anti-perforation coverage, and 5‑year / 60,000‑mile roadside assistance plan.
Contact Thelen Kia in Bay City for More Information Today
Ready to learn more about this fun-to-drive, efficient and capable hybrid? Visit Thelen Kia in Bay City, MI and let us introduce you to the 2026 Kia Carnival MPV Hybrid today. Explore inventory and offers near Central Michigan—shop for the Carnival Hybrid at Thelen Kia today and discover your next adventure!
2025 Kia Telluride Impresses at J.D. Power Initial Quality Study
The 2025 Kia Telluride has earned the top spot in the J.D. Power 2025 U.S. Initial Quality Study in the Upper Midsize SUV segment. Recognized for having the fewest quality issues over the first 90 days of ownership, the Telluride is known for its spacious interior, advanced features, and bold design. Vehicles were evaluated on driving experience, engine and transmission performance, and a broad range of quality issues reported by vehicle owners.
About the 2025 Kia Telluride
The 2025 Kia Telluride offers updated trims, new color options, and enhanced towing capabilities. It is an impressive three-row SUV with a quiet and upscale cabin, impressive tech, extensive standard features, adult-friendly third-row seating, and a satisfying driving experience. The Telluride has a 6-cylinder 3.8L V6 engine with 291 horsepower and an 8-speed shiftable automatic transmission to provide dependable power for your Central Michigan drive.
Schedule a Test Drive at Thelen Kia
If you are ready to bring home the 2025 Kia Telluride, Thelen Kia in Bay City, Michigan, can assist you. Give us a call at 989-357-7269 to schedule a test drive or to get more information on the newer model year of the Telluride.
Get to Know the 2026 Kia Carnival MPV
2026 Kia Carnival Overview
The 2026 Kia Carnival is a refined multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) designed for families and active Mid-Michigan lifestyles. It blends SUV-style presence with modern tech, comfort, and safety. With spacious seating, versatile cargo options, and a variety of trim levels with plenty of features, it’s ideal for snowy weather commutes or summer lake trips around Michigan.
Exterior Design
Modern, bold styling rooted in Kia’s mission to stand out.
- LED headlights and daytime running lights
- Sound-absorbing windshield glass
- Hidden rear wiper
- Wheel options: 17″ or 19″
Performance
- Gas engine: 3.5 L V6 with 287 hp, 8-speed automatic, FWD
- Towing capacity: 3,500 lb
Interior & Comfort
Roomy, tech-forward cabin with three-row seating.
- 12.3” touchscreen infotainment display with navigation
- Seating for seven or eight, depending on trim level
- Wireless Apple CarPlay® / Android Auto™
- Trizone Automatic Control System with Auto De-Fog System
- Sliding and removable second row seats
Safety Features
Comprehensive ADAS suite across trims:
- Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist
- Blind-Spot and Rear Cross-Traffic Collision Avoidance
- Lane Keeping & Lane Following Assist
- Driver Attention Warning
- Navigation-Based Smart Cruise Control w/ Stop & Go
- Highway Driving Assist on lower trims / Highway Driving Assist 2 on upper trims
- Rear Occupant Alert and Safe Exit Assist
- Parking Distance Warning
Reliability & Warranty
10-year/100,000-mile limited powertrain warranty
5-year/60,000-mile limited basic warranty
5-year/100,000-mile limited anti-perforation warranty
5-year/60,000-mile roadside assistance plan
Want More Information on the 2026 Kia Carnival?
Ready to take your family travels to a new level? Contact Thelen Kia in Bay City to learn more about the new 2026 Kia Carnival. Whether you drive to Saginaw, Midland, or beyond, drive home in a vehicle that offers space, tech, and safety for your Great Lakes adventures.
Connect with us
Recent Blog Entries
Categories
Warranties include 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain and 5-year/60,000-mile basic. All warranties and roadside assistance are limited. See retailer for warranty details.