kennedy-automotive

The Ultimate Guide to Tire Rotation: Ensuring Safety and Longevity with Kennedy Automotive in Wilmington, NC

Sat, 02 May 2026 09:04:33 GMT

Discover expert tire rotation tips at Kennedy Automotive in Wilmington, NC. Enhance your vehicle's performance & lifespan. Visit us today!

The Importance of Regular Brake Service: Insights from Kennedy Automotive in Wilmington, NC

Sat, 04 Apr 2026 09:04:08 GMT

Expert brake service at Kennedy Automotive, Wilmington, NC. Ensure safety with our experienced team. Schedule an inspection today!

The Ultimate Guide to Oil Changes and Why They're Crucial for Your Vehicle

Sat, 07 Mar 2026 09:05:42 GMT

Discover expert oil change services at Kennedy Automotive in Wilmington, NC. Enhance your vehicle's performance and longevity. Visit us today!

Mastering Car Diagnostics for a Smooth Ride

Sun, 08 Feb 2026 09:05:44 GMT

Experience expert car diagnostics at Kennedy Automotive in Wilmington, NC. Trust our skilled technicians for accurate solutions. Schedule an online appointment now.

Understanding State Inspections: Your Guide to Ensuring Vehicle Safety and Compliance

Thu, 29 Jan 2026 20:56:14 GMT

Optimize your vehicle's performance with state inspections by Kennedy Automotive in Wilmington, NC. Ensure safety and compliance. Schedule an appointment today!

How to Maximize the Lifespan of Your Tires: Expert Advice from Kennedy Automotive

Wed, 29 Oct 2025 09:08:15 GMT

Enhance tire lifespan with Kennedy Automotive's expert tips in Wilmington, NC. For reliable auto repair solutions, visit us today!

Mastering Tire Rotation: Tips and Insights from Kennedy Automotive

Wed, 01 Oct 2025 09:09:09 GMT

Expert tire rotation services in Wilmington, NC at Kennedy Automotive. Enhance performance, extend tire life, & drive safer. Schedule an online appointment now!

Mastering Brake Maintenance: A Guide from Kennedy Automotive in Wilmington, NC

Wed, 03 Sep 2025 09:08:01 GMT

Expert brake service at Kennedy Automotive in Wilmington, NC. Ensure your safety with our top-notch brake maintenance. Schedule an appointment today!

The Essential Guide to Oil Changes: Keep Your Car Running Smoothly with Kennedy Automotive in Wilmington, NC

Wed, 06 Aug 2025 09:08:26 GMT

Ensure your car runs smoothly with expert oil changes by Kennedy Automotive in Wilmington, NC. We prioritize quality and care. Visit us today!

Mastering the Art of Autodiagnostics: Your Guide to Vehicle Care at Kennedy Automotive

Wed, 09 Jul 2025 09:08:25 GMT

Discover expert auto diagnostic services at Kennedy Automotive in Wilmington, NC. We provide reliable solutions for your vehicle's needs. Schedule an appointment today!

Celebrating 20 Years

Tue, 01 Jul 2025 04:19:13 GMT

As we gathered at the Hi-Wire Brewing Company on 1020 Princess St in Wilmington, NC, the atmosphere was buzzing with excitement and nostalgia. It marked a remarkable moment in Kennedy Automotive's history – our 20th anniversary celebration. Reflecting on the journey that Keith and Vicky Kennedy embarked upon in 2003, it's been an incredible ride from our modest beginnings to becoming a top-tier automotive service center.

Keith's drive to offer superior customer service led to the birth of Kennedy Automotive, stepping away from local dealerships to set a higher standard. Fast forward two decades, and here we are, a stellar team comprising two service advisors, six technicians, and myself serving as the General Manager, contributing to the team's efforts.

Before Keith took over, this building operated as a body shop. But with his vision and dedication, Kennedy Automotive was born. He expanded the shop, adding five lifts, including a top-notch drive-on alignment rack. Keith isn't just a boss; he's a mentor, shaping technicians who've passed through our doors.

Dustin Poetzscher, an integral part of our team since 2013, embodies the spirit of dedication and growth that defines Kennedy Automotive.

While Keith's role has evolved, spending more time with family and grandchildren, his legacy remains ingrained in our culture. We specialize in domestic and Asian vehicle service and excel in light-duty diesel repairs for Duramax, Powerstroke, and Cummins engines. Continuous learning is our mantra, ensuring our technicians and advisors receive annual training to stay ahead in this ever-evolving industry.

The 20th-anniversary surprise for Keith was a heartwarming affair. Stories from around the shop, great local beer from Hi-Wire Brewing , and great pizza from Cugino Forno Pizza made it an unforgettable evening. The custom-printed t-shirts, featuring a character logo drawn by Scott's talented mother, spoke volumes about our team's unity and appreciation for Keith.

These gatherings aren't just parties; they define us. They're the essence of the culture we've built at Kennedy Automotive. They signify our unity, dedication, and celebration of our milestones.

Looking ahead, the future of Kennedy Automotive is bright. With ambitious goals and a team committed to excellence, we're set to carve out new paths while remaining true to our core values. This celebration wasn't just a marker for the past 20 years; it's a launchpad for the many more successful years to come. Keith's vision, coupled with the exceptional team's dedication, will continue to steer Kennedy Automotive as a benchmark of automotive excellence, not just in Wilmington, but beyond.

Understanding Ram Promaster Flexplate Issues and Solutions with the 3.6-Liter Engines

Tue, 01 Jul 2025 04:17:04 GMT

The Ram Promaster series has gained popularity for its versatility and performance. However, an issue with the 3.6-liter engines has plagued some owners: a cracked flexplate or flywheel. This common problem, occurring in 2014-2018 models, often presents itself through an audible ticking noise emanating from the engine area. In this comprehensive guide, we'll dive into the causes, identification, repair process, and precautions associated with the flywheel issue in Ram Promaster vans.

Understanding the Issue:

The 3.6-liter engines in Ram Promasters are prone to a distinct problem: the flexplate or flywheel developing cracks near the 7 bolts that secure it to the crankshaft. This flaw can lead to an audible ticking noise varying in intensity, from barely noticeable to very loud, indicating a damaged flywheel. To confirm this issue, a visual inspection through the flywheel inspection window, typically covered by a small rubber grommet, is necessary. Once the grommet is removed, a cracked flywheel can be visually identified.

Repair Process:

Repairing the cracked flexplate requires the replacement of the flywheel, requiring the removal of the transmission assembly to access the faulty part. Following technical service information guidelines, it's important to tighten the flexplate retaining bolts to 95 N·m (70 ft. lbs.) in a criss-cross pattern during the replacement process. Additionally, aligning the transmission guide pins ensures the proper alignment of the transmission and engine to meet flush.

Precautions and Limitations:

It's crucial to note that despite replacing the damaged flywheel, Ram has not implemented any material or design updates to prevent this issue from recurring. Therefore, while the repair resolves the immediate problem, there's no guarantee against future occurrences of flywheel cracking in the same models.

We Can Help:

If you're experiencing similar issues or any other problems with your Ram Promaster van, Kennedy Automotive in Wilmington, NC, has ASE Certified and trained mechanics experienced and able to handle a wide array of repairs and maintenance needs for these vehicles. Our team is equipped to handle flywheel replacements, ensuring efficient and reliable solutions to get your vehicle back on the road promptly.

Winter Tire Woes: Tackling Tire Pressure with Kennedy Automotive

Tue, 01 Jul 2025 04:14:49 GMT

As winter takes hold in Wilmington, NC, tire pressure concerns become a common issue for drivers. At Kennedy Automotive, we understand the impact of temperature on tire pressures and the importance of addressing this promptly. In this blog, we'll discuss why outside temperatures affect tire pressures, what to expect during temperature fluctuations in our region, how to check tire pressures at home, and how we can help you at Kennedy Automotive.

Understanding Temperature's Impact on Tire Pressures:

Tire pressure is crucial for vehicle performance and safety. As temperatures drop, the air inside your tires contracts, leading to reduced tire pressure. For every 10-degree Fahrenheit drop in temperature, tires can lose 1-2 pounds per square inch (psi) of pressure. This effect is more pronounced during the colder months.

Temperature Fluctuations in Wilmington, NC:

Wilmington's weather is unpredictable, with temperature swings of up to 40 degrees in a day. These fluctuations can catch drivers off guard, affecting tire pressures and vehicle safety.

What to Expect as Temperatures Fluctuate:

During temperature changes, you might see your tire pressure monitor light coming on and off. This is a natural response to air contraction and expansion in your tires. While a slight pressure decrease is normal, consistent or significant changes should be addressed.

DIY Tire Pressure Checks:

Maintaining regular tire pressure is crucial, especially in winter. Here's how you can check your tire pressures at home:

Use a Tire Pressure Gauge:

Get a gauge from an automotive store.
Remove the valve cap, attach the gauge to the valve stem, and check the pressure.
Compare the reading with the recommended tire pressure in your owner's manual or on the driver's side door jamb.

Utilize the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS):

If your vehicle has TPMS, check the real-time pressure on your dashboard.
Refer to your vehicle's manual for TPMS information.
Pay attention to warning lights or notifications.

Kennedy Automotive - Your Solution for Tire Pressure Concerns:

If you're dealing with a persistent tire pressure monitor light or a significant pressure drop, Kennedy Automotive can help. Here's how we assist you:

Professional Tire Pressure Checks:

Bring your vehicle to us for a thorough inspection.
Our technicians use specialized tools for accurate pressure measurements.
We identify leaks, damage, or any underlying tire issues.

Tire Inflation Services:

If needed, we'll promptly inflate your tires to the recommended levels.
Our precision equipment ensures accurate and consistent inflation.

TPMS Diagnostics and Repairs:

For TPMS-equipped vehicles, we conduct diagnostics to identify malfunctions.
Our technicians address TPMS issues, including sensor replacements and recalibrations.

As winter sets in, understanding the impact of temperature on tire pressures is crucial. Regular DIY checks, combined with professional services from Kennedy Automotive, ensure your vehicle remains safe and reliable through the colder months. Trust us to keep you rolling smoothly this winter.