1995 Kia Sephia problems
The Kia Sephia is a compact car that was manufactured by the South Korean automaker Kia Motors from September 1992 to 2003.
The first generation Sephia was badged Kia Mentor in some markets, and as the Timor S515/S516 in Indonesia. This convention continued on with the second generation version, which was also badged Kia Shuma and Kia Spectra.
First generation (1992)
The first-generation Kia Sephia is the first car that was actually designed by Kia with their own chassis. Engines available were the B-series engines, with the 1.5-liter rated at 59 kilowatts (79 hp), the 1.6-liter 78-kilowatt (105 hp), and the 1.8-liter BP engine at 91-kilowatt (122 hp) from 1994. The car was presented in September 1992 to replace the aging Capital, which was rapidly losing market share. The Sephia proved quite successful, selling over 100,000 in its first full year in the home market (1993). A total of 472,920 Sephias were sold over the life of the original Sephia.
In the United States, sales began in late 1993 for the 1994 model year. This was the first Kia to be exported to the US. An update came in the 1995 model year when grille and tail lights were restyled and all US-market Sephias except California-market RS/LS models got upgraded to the new 1.8-liter DOHC four-cylinder BP engine as used in the Mazda Familia (BG). Kia licensed the engine design from Mazda, but manufactured it themselves.
It was launched in Europe in the spring of 1994 as the Kia Sephia in some markets and in others, including the United Kingdom, as the Kia Mentor. It was similar in size to best-selling European small family cars like the Ford Escort, but was priced similarly to smaller cars like the Ford Fiesta. Its key rivals in Europe were budget-priced Eastern European and Far Eastern imported products including the Daewoo Nexia, Hyundai Accent, Proton Persona and Skoda Felicia. In Brazil, the car went on the market in March 1994. It was only offered with the 1.5-liter twin cam engine with 112 PS (82 kW) and was considered a competitor to the domestically built Chevrolet Omega and Volkswagen Santana. To make a car suitable for the Brazilian market, Kia went through the trouble of studying Brazilian road surfacing and importing 1,000 litres (260 US gal) of Brazilian gasoline to properly program the engine management.
Kia presented a conceptual convertible version of the first generation Sephia, which was named "Kia Sephia Cabrio" at some auto shows.
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Common 1995 Kia Sephia problems
The Kia Sephia, produced in the 1990s, is known for several common problems that have been reported by owners. One of the most frequently reported issues is the blinking overdrive light on the dashboard, which is often accompanied by a feeling of sluggishness and difficulty accelerating. This issue is likely caused by a failing IAC (Idle Air Control) or a transmission sensor, according to a user named MA maris from the United States. The blinking overdrive light is caused by the ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid) temperature sensor.
Another common problem with the Kia Sephia is faulty lamps ignition. Users have reported issues with high beams and fuses, where only one side of the headlights will turn on or the other way around. This issue is likely caused by a burnt H4 bulb or a problem with the electrical system. To solve this issue, users are advised to change the H4 bulb and check the electrical system.
A third common problem with the Kia Sephia is vibration when accelerating. Users have reported intermittent vibrations when accelerating, especially in first gears. This issue is likely caused by distorted front bearings that need to be replaced. To solve this issue, users are advised to check the front bearings and replace them if necessary.
In addition to these common problems, the Kia Sephia has also been known to have issues with wiring, fuel pump, spark plugs, sensors, and other problems. These issues can cause the car to bogs down or run on three cylinders, which can be solved by checking the distributor and spark plugs.
The Kia Sephia has also been recalled for several issues, including faulty trailer hitch modules, power sliding doors, oil seal leaks, and faulty steering. These recalls are important to address as they can affect the safety and reliability of the vehicle.
In summary, the Kia Sephia is known for several common problems, including blinking overdrive light, faulty lamps ignition, and vibration when accelerating. These issues can be caused by a variety of factors, including failing sensors, burnt bulbs, and distorted bearings. It is important for Kia Sephia owners to address these issues promptly to ensure the safety and reliability of their vehicle.
When did they stop making Kia Sephia?
2003
The Kia Sephia is a compact car that was manufactured by the South Korean automaker Kia Motors from September 1992 to 2003.
What kind of engine is in the Kia Sephia?
The Kia Sephia I 1.6i has a Inline 4, Petrol engine with 1598 cm3 / 97.5 cu-in capacity.
Which Kia to stay away from?
Q: Which Kia Soul years should be avoided? A: Based on the guide, potential buyers should avoid the Kia Soul from the following model years due to reported reliability issues: 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, and 2016. These models have experienced various problems, from engine failures to body integrity issues.
What replaced the Kia Sephia?
Kia Spectra
The Sephia was the first Kia to be imported into the United States, ahead of the Kia Sportage crossover. The Sephia was replaced by the Kia Spectra in 2000.
1995 Kia Sephia car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Kia Sephia problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Power train problems
- Hydraulic problems
- Service brakes problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Seat belts problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1995 Kia Sephia vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 1995 Kia Sephia
The NHTSA has received 95 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1995 Kia Sephia. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1995 Kia Sephia vehicles.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-02-29
- Fire: 1
- VIN: KNAFA1213S5
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1995 KIA SEPHIA. AFTER RECEIVING AN OIL AND FILTER CHANGE, THE VEHICLE SUDDENLY CAUGHT FIRE UNDER THE HOOD WHILE DRIVING 10 MPH. THE CONTACT EXITED THE VEHICLE AND CALLED 911. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT EXTINGUISHED THE FIRE AND FILED A REPORT. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT STATED THAT THE FIRE ORIGINATED IN THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT, BUT THE HEAT SOURCE WAS NOT DETERMINED. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED. THE MANUFACTURER HAD BEEN NOTIFIED. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE 125,479. UPDATED 05/19/08 *BF UPDATED 05/19/08
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-03-18
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: DASHBOARD IS ROLLING BACK FROM THE WINDSHIELD ON BOTH DRIVER AND PASSENGER SID EOF THE CAR. UNABLE TO SECURE THE DASHBOARD.*AK
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-06-09
- VIN: KNAFA1256S5
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: THE DASH HAS SEVERAL DISCOLORED BROWN.. LOOKING LIKE BURNT SPOTS ON IT AND HAS COMPLETELEY COME UNGLUED NEAREAST THE WINDSHIELD. THE DEFROSTERS ARE RENDERED USELESS BY THIS. I COMPLAINED TO A KIA DEALER AND HE SAID I COULD HAVE A NEW ONE PUT ON. BUT ONLY COMPLETELY AT MY EXPENSE.*AK
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-01-07
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: RECALL CAMPAIGN ON SEAT BELT BUCKLE. *TS REQUESTING INFORMATION ASSOCIATED WITH THE RECALL CAMPAIGN #(02V-216) OF SEAT BELT BUCKLE ASSEMBLIES 1995-98 KIA SEPHIS AND SPORTAGE VEHICLES.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: KNAFA1252S5
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: THE DASHBOARD CURLED AND LIFTED FROM ITS ORIGINAL POSITION AS A RESULT OF EXPOSURE TO DIRECT SUNLIGHT. *NLM *NLM
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-03-03
- VIN: KNAFA1250S5
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: TECHNICAL DEFECT IN MANUFACTURING. MR THE CONSUMER STATED EVER SINCE THE VEHICLE WAS PURCHASED THE VEHICLE MADE ALL KINDS OF NOISES. *JB
STRUCTURE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-02-15
- VIN: KNAFA121285
- Components: STRUCTURE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: CONSUMER NOTICED THAT THE DASHBOARD IS FALLING APART, THE GLUE, BOLTS AND PLASTIC COVER ARE ALL COMING APART. NLM *YH
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-03-15
- Crash: 1
- VIN: KNAFA1213S5
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: DRIVER WAS NOT WEARING LAP PORTION OF SAFETY RESTRAINT SYSTEM. FORCES THROUGH ROLL OVER COLLISION SEQUENCE CAUSED MOUNTING BRACKET FOR PASSIVE RESTRAINT LATCH TO FAIL. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, CONTACT OFFICER SEDAM, CHP MAIT, 559-444-2538, REPORT CL-026-02. *AK
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: DASHBOARD IS STARTING TO ROLL BACK AWAY FROM WINDSHIELD TOWARDS THE DRIVER. IF STANDING IN FRONT OF THIS VEHICLE ONE CAN SEE INTO THE CONTROL PANEL. DEALER HAS BEEN CONTACTED. *AK
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-09-08
- VIN: KNAFA1213S5
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: GEAR SHIFT LEVER CAME OFF IN CONSUMERS HAND AS SHE WAS SHIFTING FROM SECOND TO FIRST GEAR, UPON EXAMINATION OF THE LEVER, IT LITERALLY SNAPPED IN THE MIDDLE OF THE METAL, CONSUMER BELIEVES THE METAL USED WAS FAULTY, CONSUMER REQUEST REIMBURSEMENT. NLM
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-06-01
- VIN: KNAFA1211S5
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: THERE ARE BROWN SPOTS, IN AN OTHERWISE NAVY BLUE COLORED DASH, THAT APPEAR TO BE BURNED AREAS. ALSO, THE PART OF THE DASH CONNECTED CLOSEST TO THE WIND SHIELD HAS BECOME COMPLETELY UNGLUED. UPON CONTACTING THE MANUFACTURER, WE WERE TOLD THAT THEY WOULD PAY FOR THE DASH ITSELF BUT WE WOULD HAVE TO PAY FOR THE LABOR. SINCE OUR WARRANTEE HAD EXPIRED, WE THOUGHT THAT WAS PRETTY FAIR UNTIL WE WERE INFORMED WE COULD ONLY HAVE IT REPAIRED AT THE DEALERSHIP (WHO CHARGES $80/HOUR). OUR REGULAR AUTO BODY SPECIALIST WOULD CHARGE US HALF OF THAT AMOUNT, AND THAT WOULD INCLUDE ACTUALLY PAYING FOR THE DASH. THE MANUFACTURER AGREED TO LET US TAKE THE FREE DASH OUTSIDE THE DEALERSHIP FOR REPAIR. THEN WHEN WE ASKED FOR THAT AGREEMENT IN WRITING, THEY CLAIMED THEY HAD NEVER AGREED TO ALLOW THAT. WE ASKED THEM TO REVIEW THEIR "QUALITY ASSURANCE" TAPES. WE WERE THEN TOLD THAT EVEN IF THE TAPES PROVED THE CONVERSATION OCCURED AS WE SAID, WE STILL COULD NOT TAKE THE DASH ANYWHERE OTHER THAN THE DEALERSHIP. WE DID NOT EVEN BUY THE CAR FROM THE DEALERSHIP. BY OFFERING TO GIVE US A REPLACEMENT DASH FREE OF CHARGE, THEY WERE ADMITTING THAT IT WAS A DEFECT. OF ALL THE PEOPLE THAT WE SHOWED THE DASH TO, NOT ONE PERSON HAD EVER SEEN ANYTHING LIKE IT IN THEIR LIVES. WE FEEL THAT WE WERE DECEIVED BY THE MANUFACTURER.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: KNAFA125955
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: RADIATOR HAS OVERHEATED AND CRACKED, CAUSING FLUID TO LEAK INTO THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT, DAMAGING THE ENGINE. CONSUMER HAS CONTACTED DEALER. PLEASE PROVIDE ANY FURTHER DETAILS.*AK
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-04-01
- VIN: KNAFA1215S5
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: CONSUMER DIDN'T KNOW THAT HORN NEVER WORKED WHEN VEHICLE WAS PURCHASED. CONSUMER WAS ABLE TO AVOID AN ACCIDENT AFTER REALIZING IT DIDN'T WORK. DEALER REPLACED IT ONCE BEFORE. HORN STILL HAS A PROBLEM. *AK
STEERING,AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-06-04
- Number Of Injuries: 3
- Crash: 1
- VIN: KNAFA1253S5
- Components: STEERING,AIR BAGS
- Summary: VEHICLE LOST CONTROL, AND THEN ROLLED OVER A COUPLE TIMES, AND AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. VEHICLE WAS TOTALED. *AK
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES,SEATS,INTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-06-01
- Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES,SEATS,INTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: SEVERAL PROBLEMS WITH DOOR LATCH, DASH, INTERIOR LIGHTING AND DRIVER SEAT. *AK
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-11-24
- Crash: 1
- VIN: KNAFA1250S5
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: WHEN BRAKES WERE APPLIED PEDAL WENT TO THE FLOOR, RESULTING IN EXTENDED STOPPING DISTANCE, CAUSING A COLLISION. DEALER HAS REPLACED THE BRAKES SEVERAL TIMES PRIOR TO THE COLLISION. *AK
AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Number Of Injuries: 2
- Crash: 1
- VIN: KNAFA1256S5
- Components: AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS
- Summary: DRIVER WAS INVOLVED IN 4 CAR COLLISION WHERE THERE WAS FRONTAL AND REAR IMPACT, DUAL AIRBAGS DID NOT DEPLOY, AND SEATBELTS UNLATCHED BY THEMSELVES, CAUSING SERIOUS INJURIES. VEHICLE IS A TOTAL LOSS. *AK
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-04-01
- VIN: KNAFA1210S5
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: THE ORIGINAL CLUTCH WAS REPLACED AT 20000 MILES, THEN THE ORIGINAL TRANSMISSION WAS REPLACED AT 60000 MILES. NOW AT 72500 MILES BOTH THE CLUTCH AND TRANSMISSION ARE BEING REPLACED AGAIN, AFTER A TOTAL FAILURE.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,POWER TRAIN,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-11-15
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,POWER TRAIN,STRUCTURE
- Summary: BRAKES WOULD SQUEAL. HAD TROUBLE STOPPING/EAR WINDSHIELD KEEPS POPPING OUT BENT FRAME, AND TRANSMISSION HAS BEEN REPLACED TWICE BECAUSE SHAFT IS CROOKED.CONSUMER CONTACTED DEALER. *AK
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-07-12
- VIN: KNASA125958
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: WHEN DRIVING AT ANY SPEED, THE SHIFT PATTERN INDICATOR WHICH IS SITTING ON THE TAIL PIPE KEEPS LOOSENING. *AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: KNASA125OS5
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: WHEN DRIVING AT AN HIGH SPEED AND WHEN SLOWING DOWN THE VEHICLE SHUTS DOWN COMPLETELY. WHILE AT HIGH SPEEDS IT STARTS TO STALL AND WILL ALSO SHUT OFF AT AN HIGH SPEED. DEALER HAS BEEN CONTACTED. *AK
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: KNAFA1216S5
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: THE CV JOINTS REPLACED TWICE BY THE DEALER AND NOW THEY NEED TO BE REPLACED AGAIN, FRONT AXLE FAILED.* ET
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-12-01
- VIN: KNAFA1216S5
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: DASHBOARD FAILED.* ET
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: KNAFA1216S5
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: THE CV JOINTS REPLACED TWICE BY THE DEALER AND NOW THEY NEED TO BE REPLACED AGAIN, FRONT AXLE FAILED.* ET
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-12-01
- VIN: KNAFA1216S5
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: DASHBOARD FAILED.* ET
1995 Kia Sephia recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 1995 Kia Sephia.
- Manufacturer: KIA MOTORS AMERICA, INC.
- Components: SEAT BELTS:FRONT:BUCKLE ASSEMBLY
- Summary: ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, THE SAFETY BELT BUCKLE MAY "FALSE LATCH" AND EXPOSE THE DRIVER TO UNRESTRAINED MOVEMENT DURING A CRASH.
- Consequence: IN THE EVENT OF A CRASH, THE SEAT OCCUPANT MAY NOT BE PROPERLY RESTRAINED, INCREASING THE RISK OF PERSONAL INJURY.
- Remedy: OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN DECEMBER 20, 2002. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT KIA AT 1-800-333-4542.
Negative 1995 Kia Sephia car reviews
Positive 1995 Kia Sephia car reviews
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I hope you're doing well! I wanted to share that I purchased the car new and have taken great care of it. The only major repair I've had to do was to replace a worn cv boot. As you know, if you take care of your car, it will take care of you! I still enjoy driving it as much as the first day.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1995 Kia Sephia problems:
Q&A: 1995 Kia Sephia - Common Issues & Troubleshooting
Mar 26, 2009 ... Was this answer helpful? up Yes. down No. Finish.
Kia Sephia Problems and Complaints - 2 Issues
Top Kia Sephia Problems · Kia Issues New Alternator to Replace Weak One. 27 people have reported this. 7 · No Crank or No Start Due to Cracked Flex Plate. 12 ...
2001 Kia Spectra Fuel problem | Kia Forum
Feb 24, 2014 ... 2001 Kia Spectra Fuel problem ... VERY, VERY, VERY, common problem in early Sportages... If you haven't replaced the MAIN and FUEL PUMP relays...
1995 Kia Sephia Repair: Service and Maintenance Cost
Get 1995 Kia Sephia repair and maintenance costs, common problems, recalls, and more. Find certified Kia mechanics near you.
Problems in Kia Spectra | Kia Forum
Sep 17, 2004 ... Problems in Kia Spectra · 1) When on Idle, the rpm tends to fluctuate up and down. This happens very often sometimes when the car is cold and ...
Other years of Kia Sephia
Are you having problems with your 1995 Kia Sephia?
Davon Aufderhar 2024-06-15
In January 1999, I purchased a used 1994 Kia Sephia RS from a single owner with 89,000 miles on it. Since then, I have taken good care of it by having the brakes done, regular oil changes & tune ups, and a new battery. I have also done some minor tweaking of the timing & general maintenance (headlights etc). The best part is that I have had NO PROBLEMS with it. It always starts & gets great gas mileage. In my opinion, this is the best car for its value that I have ever had.
Gage Schroeder 2024-06-12
Although the Kia Sephia has some drawbacks such as poor acceleration, handling, and road noise, it does have good fuel economy. It's important to do research before purchasing a car to avoid any potential issues. In this case, my friend unfortunately had to spend $1000 to have the engine rebuilt shortly after buying the car. However, it's always a learning experience and he will make a more informed decision next time.
Jarrod Kerluke 2024-05-20
Although I have owned several cars, this one is the worst. I have a strong dislike for it.
Jordi Blick 2024-05-07
Hi there! I just wanted to share my experience with these cars. I actually have two of them now and I absolutely love them! I would definitely consider buying a new one, especially with the new 10 year 100000 mile warranty. It really makes for a great car to have and own.
Jorge Dickinson 2024-01-10
This car has been in my family since 1994 and has averaged over 20,000 rough miles a year. It has traveled from coast to coast and now has close to 210,000 miles. Despite its age and mileage, it has never had a major engine or transmission problem. While it may not be the nicest, trendiest, or most comfortable car, it has certainly held its own over the years. If you're in the market for a new car, I would highly recommend giving a new Hyundai or Kia a try, especially with their new warranties. These cars are not cheaply built and are definitely worth considering.