5 Reasons to Get a Tire Rotation

Tire rotation and tire alignment go hand in hand. A tire alignment makes sure that all four tires are evenly angled with each other and the road. A tire rotation means regularly switching the position of each tire on the vehicle. Here at Crain Hyundai of Conway, we provide both services and ensure each and every one of our vehicles are good to go with the alignment and tire rotation. Here’s why you need to get a tire rotation at Crain Hyundai of Conway.
Longevity
If you want your tires to last you for quite some time, rotating them is a must. The reason why people are constantly buying new tires is because they fail to get them rotated. You should get your tires rotated every 5,000 miles. The best way to do this is by requesting your tires be rotated when you get an oil change. As they say ‘killing two birds with one stone’.
Save Money
Tires are not exactly budget friendly. You’ll at least always spend $50-$150 minimum. Now for high-end tires, the mega performance speciality tires? Those can range anywhere from $300-$1000 each. Not to mention the cost of labor and taxes as well.
Safer Drive
Your engine is a big part as to why your car moves, but the tires are the backbone. Without great tires, anything is bound to happen. Getting your tires rotated makes a safer drive throughout your trip/going to your destination. You’ll keep the tread on your tires healthy by rotating your tires. If you come to an abrupt stop and your tires are worn down because you haven’t rotated your tires, it’s possible you might not be able to control your car. Especially when it’s rain, snow, or icy roads, that’s when it becomes even more dangerous.
Keep Your Tread
Not rotating your tires could also lead to wearing them thin, making them more prone for blowouts. It’ll only take a nail or piece of glass punctured in a weak spot on the tire to cause a blowout. Tires are strong and tough until they are worn down from repeated hits.
Smooth Riding
When you get your tires rotated in a regular time frame, it makes driving anywhere a lot more peaceful. You’ll definitely feel the difference in driving with tires that are in great condition compared to tires that are worn out with no tread. The not equal tires will give you a bumpier ride and experience sitting in that driver seat. A relaxed and untroubled ride makes for reliable and appreciable tires.
Here at Crain Hyundai of Conway, we handle oil changes, tire rotations, alignments and so much more service in a day’s work. We are dedicated to making it easier for you to have a safer driving experience. Stop by to get a service done, or contact us to schedule an appointment. We look forward to serving you at Crain Hyundai of Conway!
Top 5 Defensive Driving Tips You Need To Know

If you live in Arkansas, you likely need or have a car to get around. And, while you may be a good driver, not everyone who gets behind the wheel takes it as seriously as you. We know the importance of defensive driving at Chris Crain Hyundai which is why we put together these top five defensive driving tips you need to know before you hit the streets.
Tip 1: Always Look Ahead
Do we even need to explain this? As the driver, you are responsible not just for yourself, but also everyone else around you. Unfortunately, many drivers get into a habit of only looking at what is directly in front of them and not much further. We recommend you always look as far down the road as possible, so you can safely control the vehicle no matter the situation that arises.
Tip 2: Keep a Safe Distance
One of the most common reasons people get into accidents is because they were following too close to the vehicle in front of them. It is natural to follow the car directly in front of you, but this can lead to issues very quickly if something were to happen. It is a good rule of thumb to leave at least 3 seconds worth of pace between you and the vehicle in front of you.
Tip 3: Have An Escape Plan
Unless you have been gifted the ability to see the future, you can never know for sure what is going to happen. While you might be a superb driver, it is impossible to predict what other drivers will do. Always having an escape plan ensures that you and your passengers get away from dangerous situations safely. Think about: where will you go, or what will you do, if someone on the road starts spinning out of control.
Tip 4: Reduce Distractions
The driver of a vehicle should always have their full attention to driving, however, distractions are bound to come up. There are many different types of distractions: visual, auditory, manual and cognitive. However, any one of these can put you and your passengers in danger. Perhaps the biggest distraction in this modern age- texting. Around 3,000 people die each year from a car crash involving a distracted driver. While not every distraction can be prevented, we recommend you do your best to eliminate as many distractions as possible. Start by putting your phone down or in the glove box while you are behind the wheel.
Tip 5: Use Correct Communication
Without communication, you’re likely to fail at whatever it is you are attempting to achieve. Driving is no exception. We have all been cut-off by someone who felt like they didn’t need to use their blinker to change lanes- it is infuriating. Turn signals are required on all vehicles, and they are there for a reason. The best way to avoid an unwanted crash is by signaling to other drivers around you when you plan on turning or merging.
Chris Crain Hyundai
Now that we told you about our top five defensive driving tips- would you still consider yourself a “safe” driver? Keep this advice in mind the next time to get behind the wheel. Even though stopping by our dealership is FUN, you don’t want to be there because of an accident that could have been avoided. And of course, if you are concerned that your car is not up to safety standards- see all of the service options that Chris Crain Hyundai offers by clicking here.
The Best Weekend Getaway Destinations near Conway

Do you ever feel like you’re stuck in a routine? Similar to the movie “Groundhog Day,” the busyness of life and work can be overwhelming, and the best cure can be a weekend getaway. Here at Chris Crain Hyundai, we understand that vacations can get expensive- which is why we have created this list of some of the best weekend getaway destinations near Conway. Read on to learn about some of our favorites!
Greers Ferry Lake
Summertime in Arkansas can be brutal! High temperatures and humidity even make walking outside like hitting a brick wall. Sometimes, the only thing you can do to cool down is hit the water. Just over an hour away from Conway, Greers Ferry Lake is the perfect distance to load up the kids and lake gear to get away for the day. A public access point allows people to soak up the sun on an artificial beach or hit the cliffs which are perfect for diving. We definitely recommend taking the quick trip to Greers Ferry for the perfect lake day with the family.
Hot Springs
Perhaps one of our favorite places to visit in central Arkansas is Hot Springs! Just an hour drive from Conway, you can get away and still be close to home. Hot Springs National Park is the oldest national park in U.S. history, predating Yellowstone by 40 years. Walk the trails through the downtown park and see the natural hot springs. Hot Springs is also home to Bathhouse Row– consisting of eight victorian style bathhouses that were constructed in the late 1800s. Today, only two of the bathhouses are still in operation, and the others have been restored to preserve their history. If you’re looking to really relax after a long week at work, we recommend soaking in the hot mineral springs.
Downtown Little Rock
If you’re looking for a day or night out on the town- downtown Little Rock is a great place to go at any time of the day! The River Market’s entertainment district allows the party to continue from one restaurant to another. With an abundance of good places to eat, you’re guaranteed to find a place that even the pickiest of eaters will enjoy. Once you’re full, you can walk off those calories in the sculpture garden of the Arkansas River, or take a trip up the old Junction Bridge to get a better view of the cityscape. The city is the perfect escape if you’re looking for a quick getaway trip where you’re not spending hours and hours of time on the road.
Be Sure To Call Chris Crain Hyundai
If any issues with your vehicle come up when you’re out exploring central Arkansas- be sure to call the Crain service team. Our experienced technicians are standing by waiting to address your needs, whether it be a tire rotation or a check engine light. Contact our service department today to see how we can help.
How to Maintain Your Hyundai Vehicle

Buying a new car is a major purchase for most drivers. It’s important to take care of your vehicle so that it stays in good condition, maximizes its resale value, and most importantly, keeps you safe on the road. No matter what kind of Hyundai vehicle you drive, you should maintain it and keep it operating smoothly. There are many ways to help maintain your car, but let’s discuss a few of the best courses of action that you can take with a little help from your friends at Chris Crain Hyundai.
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Routine oil changes
Routine oil changes help extend the life of your engine and, in turn, your car. How often you should have your Hyundai vehicle’s oil changed depends on a few factors, but most mechanics recommend it be done every 3,000 to 5,000 miles. We recommend referring to your owner’s manual to find out the oil change frequency that your vehicle needs. Having a regular oil change maintenance schedule also helps serve as a benchmark for when other maintenance may be needed. Chris Crain Hyundai allows you to conveniently schedule your oil changes (and other vehicle services) through our website here.
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Check your oil level between changes
Your oil is often a good indicator of the engine performance and your vehicle’s overall health. It only takes a minute to pop the hood and check your oil level, and it could potentially add years of driving to your vehicle. Checking your oil level will vary depending on the age, model, and more of your car, so be sure to follow the recommendations listed in the owner’s manual. This YouTube video published by Hyundai USA gives you helpful step-by-step instructions on how to check your engine oil.
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Check your fluids
Fluids play a huge role in almost every facet of your car, and checking and filling automotive fluids on a regular basis is an easy way to help ensure the longevity and reliability of your vehicle. A few of the fluids that should be checked regularly include coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid, and more. If you would prefer to rely on experienced mechanics to take care of your vehicle’s fluids, our team at Chris Crain Hyundai will be happy to serve you.
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Maintain your tires
Tire maintenance is crucial for the longevity of your tires and more importantly, your safety. Outside of routine maintenance appointments, you should check your tire pressure using a tire pressure gauge at least once a month. Your vehicle’s recommended tire pressure can typically be found on a sticker inside the driver’s door as well as in the owner’s manual. You should also visit Chris Crain Hyundai, or your mechanic of choice, to have your tires rotated and inspected around every 5,000 to 8,000 miles.
It is in your best interest to take care of your Hyundai vehicle. Properly maintaining your car is key to keeping it in top condition and ensuring your safety and the safety of others. For further information or advice about vehicle maintenance, please contact our dealership and we will be happy to assist you. We look forward to helping you maintain your Hyundai vehicle for years to come!
Winterize Your Vehicle

Winter has arrived in Arkansas. Even though our winters aren’t as intense as they are in northern states, we’re still liable to cold temperatures and icy roads. Given the unpredictable nature of Arkansas weather, it’s always a good idea to be prepared for the unexpected when you head out on the road during the winter months. We’ve put together a few tips on how you can “winterize” your vehicle and be prepared for the hopefully short winter to come.
1. Make Sure Your Maintenance is Up-To-Date
It’s always a good idea to have your car maintenance up to date, but even more so during the wintertime. Regular oil changes and tire rotations are key to helping your car run smoothly for a long time, but safety and maintenance checks are important as well. You don’t want for a problem to go unnoticed, causing your car to break down and leaving you stranded on the side of the road when it’s bitterly cold outside. Make a plan to visit the service center at Chris Crain Hyundai to make sure your vehicle is in perfect operating condition.
2. Keep Your Tires at the Appropriate Pressure
As the temperatures drop, the pressure in your tires drops as well. This causes your tires to have less traction on potentially wet and icy streets. Before taking a road trip this winter, be sure to check your tire pressure and make sure your tires are properly inflated.
3. Keep Some Gas in the Tank
During the winter months, we recommend keeping at least 1/4 of a tank of gas in your car at all times. If you were to get stranded, your gas tank could be what you’re relying upon to keep your car heated and warm as you wait for help.
4. Always Carry a Jacket and Blanket
Even if you follow all the routine maintenance procedures for your vehicle, the worst could still happen. Even if you’re making a short trip to the store or to get takeout, it’s a good idea to have a blanket or jacket in the car, just in case you have to get out or wait on the side of the road for a while. We recommend keeping these things in the trunk at all times.
Winter is one of our favorite times of the year. We want for you to stay as safe as possible as you enjoy the season. This means being prepared for whatever weather, the road or your car throws at you. If you need any help “winterizing” your car, stop by Chris Crain Hyundai. We’d love to help you out!
The Best Place to Buy a Used Car in Conway

If you live near Conway and are looking to purchase a used car, the best place to do so is at Crain Hyundai. At our dealership, we have a great selection of used cars which provide you with a litany of choices. Whatever make, model or year you’re looking for, we likely have it on our lot. In fact, we have over 1,000 models available. All of our cars are properly checked, maintained or repaired by our factory-trained technicians to make sure they are in the best condition possible before leaving our lot and heading to your driveway. On top of that, we offer great prices on all our vehicles, ensuring that you get the most value for your money. Simply put, Chris Crain Hyundai is the best place in Conway to purchase your next used car.
Why Purchase a Used Car from Crain Hyundai?
While we love selling new vehicles and seeing all the bells and whistles that Hyundai rolls out each year, we know that a new vehicle isn’t the right choice for everyone. In fact, there are many reasons why you should buy a used vehicle rather than a new one.
First, used cars often offer better value than new cars. New cars depreciate quickly when they leave the lot. On the other hand, used cars have already experienced a period of depreciation, so you’ll be able to buy them for a lower price and then sell them on or trade them in for a higher percentage of your initial investment in a few years time.
Second, used cars offer shoppers a wide variety of choices. Used cars come in all shapes, colors and sizes. At Crain Hyundai, we sell used cars from more than thirty manufacturers. All these manufacturers have their own takes on car styles and design, giving you lots of options when trying to decide which car is right for you. Additionally, purchasing a used car may allow you to find a design style which is no longer in use, providing you with the opportunity to express yourself fully in your vehicle.
At Crain Hyundai, we sell used cars which are meant to make our customers happy and last for a long time. We’d love to have you browse our inventory online to see if there’s anything you’d like, then come into the dealership for a test drive. Take a look at what we offer. You might just find your next vehicle.
Why Buy a Hybrid Vehicle?

Just a few years ago, hybrid cars were a rare sight on Arkansas roads. If you saw someone driving a hybrid, you might have thought they were weird or maybe even a little crazy. That doesn’t seem to be the case anymore. Year-by-year, hybrids are becoming more popular on Arkansas roads and highways. Why is this? What reasons are there to buy a hybrid? Could you even see yourself buying one someday soon? There are many reasons hybrids are taking up a larger share of the Arkansas market, and, if you read along, you might be purchasing a hybrid vehicle in the near future as well.
Less Fuel Consumption
Perhaps the biggest reason people buy hybrid vehicles is a financial one. Hybrids consume less fuel than classic gas-powered vehicles, saving you a significant amount of money at the gas pump. For example, the 2021 Hyundai Sonata gets 38 miles per gallon on the highway, while the 2021 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid gets 54 miles per gallon. If gas costs $2.00 per gallon and you drive 20,000 miles per year, then driving a hybrid will save you, on average, $311 per year. These savings add up over time, making up for the slightly higher MSRP hybrids have on the front end.
Less Pollution
While you might not be terribly concerned about climate change, we can all agree that less air pollution is generally a good thing. Hybrid vehicles emit significantly less pollution than their gas-powered counterparts. It is estimated that hybrid vehicles are 80% cleaner than typical gas vehicles. This means that in driving a hybrid vehicle, you could play a small part in reducing emissions in your area.
Minor Differences in Power and Performance
Contrary to popular belief, you don’t sacrifice much power or performance when driving a hybrid. Unless you’re trying to race your car, you will hardly notice a difference. With the 2021 Sonata, the base engine produces a maximum of 191 horsepower. On the 2021 Sonata Hybrid, the maximum horsepower is 150. This isn’t really enough for the average driver to notice a difference.
Thinking about buying a hybrid?
If you are thinking about buying a hybrid, Hyundai produces a number of good hybrid models. Both the Sonata and the Iconiq are available in Hybrid form, and they allow you to enjoy all the benefits of a hybrid without skimping out on performance or luxury. Stop by Chris Crain Hyundai if you’d like to test drive one of these vehicles and see if a hybrid would be the right choice for you.


