How long have you been putting off that car wash? Here’s how to make slacking look good.

If “Wash Me” is a phrase you find frequently scribbled across your Kia, maybe it’s time to change a few things.  Wait, before you put it off until next week-- hear us out!  Taking these small steps every now and then will get everyone off your back.

-Keep a trash bag in your car.  Don’t get us wrong, the garbage collection growing in your back seat is impressive…keeping all of it in a bag just works better if you have passengers.

-Knock your feet together before getting in.  If you’re tidy and you know it, stomp your feet! It’ll eliminate loose dirt and gravel before it even starts.

-Don’t allow eating or smoking in your car.  Leftover wrappers add unnecessary mess—not to mention the lingering smell, so squash the problem before it starts.  Keep in mind that it’s important to lead by example on this one!

Remember that you can schedule your next service appointment with us online!

Get into the spirit of giving... and get back!

It's that time of year again!   As in previous years, we are participating in the Toys for Tots drive to benefit the children of Hickory.  But this time around, you GET something for GIVING something!

Stop into our dealership (or any Paramount Hickory location) now through December 20th with a new, unwrapped toy to donate!  This year, when you help out the cause, we'll show our appreciation and knock 5% off ANY servicing need!

Now more than ever, the spirit of giving really does pay back.  Bring in your donations today!

Be sure to visit us online for all your automotive needs.

Daylight Savings Time is just about over! What should YOU be expecting out on the road?

 

It's that time of year again!  Daylight Savings Time will be over on November 3^rd—but it means more than just an extra hour of sleep on Sunday.   The imminent chill of winter also means a change in our daily routines.

 

After we "fall back" one hour, many of us will be spending a good portion of our daily commute in poor lighting.  Whether you're an early bird or a night owl, the darkness that settles in the winter air can be dangerous if you're not prepared.   Keep these things in mind the next time you're out and about! 

 

-Pay attention to your surroundings and avoid using your cell phone. While you’re zeroed in on the latest Instagram post, someone could be approaching you from behind.

-Avoid areas known to be dangerous. Whether you’re a lifer or a new resident, it’s important to memorize which areas of town have bad raps. Steer clear of the rough spots especially at night and when you’re alone.

-Be proactive about reaching your destination! Get directions before you leave your house so you don’t have to bother with the distraction of shuffling papers while you’re en route.

-If you get that creepy feeling that you're being followed, head towards a well-lit public place immediately. Muggers are less likely to attack when in highly-populated places because they are more likely to be identified.

Keeping these things in mind will not only make for a less stressful stroll through the city, it'll ensure you arrive at your destination safely.  Speaking of safe travels, have our techs take a look at your Kia  to make sure it's in perfect condition before hitting the road! 

Skip the TRICKS! Your favorite Halloween TREAT is how you'll find your next Kia.

Candy Corn: Optima
One thing is for certain, it just wouldn’t be Halloween without candy corn!  It's the classic choice.  You’ve got a timeless sense of style, impeccable taste in food, and always recommend choice movies.  People often turn to you for advice--you've got it all figured out!  That means you and the Optima are meant to be.  

Caramel Apples: Soul

Not only are you fashion-conscious, you’re a ton of fun and always up for trying something new!  Your biting sense of humor makes you a treat to be around--not to mention that contagious laugh of yours.  You belong behind the wheel of a Soul.  

Toasted Pumpkin Seeds: Sportage

A no-nonsense person like you should be cruising in a Kia Sportage!  You are sharp, tough, and you don’t sugarcoat anything.  You fulfill your duties as a parent, best friend, coworker, employee, committee member, and all the other hats you wear-- to the fullest.  You have an unshakable dedication to your family and you finish every job you start.

Sugar Daddies: Sedona

Whoa-- you hit the mother-load!  Much like this sweet treat, you can count on the Sedona to "stick around" for a long time.  A busy bee like you needs room--both inside the vehicle and out on the road! We'd bet money on it-- the Sedona is your perfect Kia.

If you're ready for a taste of the perfect vehicle for you, stop in to Paramount Kia or check out our inventory online today!

It's not just the foliage that changes in autumn. Hit the road execting the unexpected.

 

As the temperature drops and the North Carolina countryside erupts with golds, yellows, and reds, make sure that your Kia is prepared for the coming months.  Autumn is a time for transformation and change!  Soon we'll be rolling into the chill of winter, and the last thing you want to be is unprepared.  When it comes to winter car care, it is always better to be safe than sorry.  Keep these things in mind before the first frost:

 

 

-When was the last time you replaced your wiper blades?  It is recommended that you replace them once a year.  It's both inconvenient and dangerous to be caught in a slushy snow storm without properly functioning wiper blades.  Depending on the weather and your daily routine, you may even need to swap them out every six months.

-Make sure your brake fluid, antifreeze, and oil are topped off before hitting the road.  Check your tire pressure, and make sure you have a fully-functioning, fully-inflated spare tire with you at all times.  Like we said, this season is all about preparation!  

-As the days get shorter, it becomes increasingly important that you are visible on the road.   This autumn car care tip is easy: make sure all your headlights and taillights work!  While it may seem simple, keeping this tip in mind can and will help everyone on the road arrive at their destinations safely.

 

 

You want to experience this beautiful time in all its glory, don't you?  You want to get up, get out, and go places…prepared.  So, why haven’t you called Paramount Kia yet?  We can’t wait to help you hit the road with the peace of mind that comes with our unbeatable service.   Make the call or visit us online to schedule your servicing appointment today!

The newest member of the elite class is here! Meet the 2014 Kia Cadenza: a symphony of luxury and affordability.

We want you to take a moment and envision your dream vehicle.  Picture the interior design, the body style, and all the elements that make up the car of your dreams.  You probably have a few key features in mind, right?  Things like fuel efficiency, safety, and comfort are important to you.  A powerful engine and sleek exterior wouldn’t hurt, either.

We’ve got some good news—the 2014 Kia Cadenza is all that and more!  This roomy sedan is equipped with safety features like Blind Spot Detection and Front & Rear Parking Assist to protect what's most important to you: the people inside the car.  The Cadenza's interior is luxurious to say the least, featuring effortless push-button start and timelessly elegant leather trim.  Oh, and did we mention that it’s powered by an unstoppable V-6 engine?

If you’re ready to drive a luxury car without paying a luxury price, check out the 2014 Kia Candenzas available at Paramount Kia today!

What does the color of your Kia say about you?

  Red: Outgoing and High Energy

There’s something about the color red that just screams “unstoppable.”  It is a dynamic, bold, and sensual color that really sets you apart from the rest.  If you like to be center stage with all eyes on you, get behind the wheel of a spicy red hot ride!

Black: Classic and Elegant.

Black is truly a timeless color.  Not only is it simple and versatile, it is an unmistakable symbol of power.  If you are the owner of a black vehicle, you probably have very classy taste in clothing and appreciate the finer things in life.

Blue: Trustworthy, Calm, and Patient

Much like the ocean on a bright sunny day, blue car owners tend to be cool and calm.  People who drive blue cars are likely to be trustworthy, sensitive, and caring.  They are excellent life-long friends that usually squash arguments instead of starting them.

White: Direct, Organized, and Clean

Those who own white cars tend to be a bit high maintenance.   Generally, if you drive a white vehicle you probably insist upon keeping your office space, home, and vehicle in pristine condition.  White isn’t able to camouflage very much when it comes to mud and dust, so your motto is “cleanliness is next to godliness.”

Click here to check out our online inventory and find a car in the right hue for you!

Join us in some healthy fun that benefits your body AND our community.

Paramount Auto is a proud sponsor of the Carolina Cycle Challenge!  Formerly known as Brett’s Ride, this event has been an important part of life in Hickory and North Carolina since 2004.  Like previous years, all proceeds will be donated to fight pediatric cancer in combination with Carolinas Health Care Foundation of Charlotte, NC.

Help us continue the charitable spirit of Brett’s ride and join us this Sunday, October 6, 2013 at Hickory Foundation YMCA.   We’ll get started at 9:00AM—hope to see you there!

Click here for photos and more information on the 2013Carolina Cycle Challenge.

To Lease or to Own? That is the question.

When you find yourself in the market for a new Kia, the choice whether to lease or buy can be confusing.  At Paramount Kia, we want to help you make an informed decision so you can drive happy!  From questions about upfront costs to future value, we’ve got all the info you need about lease vs. own.  Which one is right for you?  Simply visit us online to weigh your options and find the best choice for you.

The 37th Annual Paramount Auto Group Bobby Isaac Memorial Race is this weekend!

On tap for the 37th Annual Paramount Auto Group Bobby Isaac Memorial race will be:

-150 laps for the NASCAR Whelen All American Series Bojangles Late Models

-50 laps for the Paramount Kia Limited Late Models

-Street Stocks and the Sportsman Racing Classics.

Hickory Motor Speedway General Manager Kevin Piercy commented, "Last year we had 34 cars that attempted to qualify and it appears that number will grow this year….With 34 NWAAS Bojangles Late Models already confirmed and 18 Paramount Kia Limited Late Models, this one promises to provide an exciting race!"

Gates Open: 5PM

Racing Action Starts: 7PM

Tickets: $15 for Adults, $10 for Seniors & Teens, FREE for children 12 and under.

There will be an open practice on Friday, August 30st from 5PM-9PM. Fans are invited to attend.

More information on this exciting event can be found here!

Is backseat bickering ruining your road trip? Here's an easy fix.

If you’re a parent, you know that kids tend to get antsy during long car rides.  Here are a few things to keep in mind for your next family road trip.  With these tricks in your arsenal, you are guaranteed to have a happy drive!

-Let the kids have a say.  This can be as simple as stopping at one roadside attraction or letting them have a milkshake after dinner.

-Reward good behavior.  Put a stop to backseat bickering by offering a prize.  For example, one complaint-free hour means the child can choose where you stop for lunch, or can stay in the hotel pool that night a little longer.

-Create a vacation scrapbook.  One child can be in charge of taking pictures, another can log daily activities in a journal, and one can collect mementos throughout the trip.

-Of course, bring plenty of toys, books, and crayons!

Visit us online to pick out the perfect Kia for your next road trip.

Great Music, Great Food, Great Cause!

Paramount Classic Cars & Trucks is pleased to join Graystone Aesthetic Center for an evening of great music by The Extraordinaires, great BBQ chicken/ribs/sides from Market on Main, and a presentation of our classic car and truck collection! 

This is a benefit for Catawba County Services for the Blind. We hope you will join us on Friday, August 23^rd!   Tickets can be purchased by calling 828-304-6656 or at Graystone Aesthetic Center.