1998 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 1998 Kia Sephia problems
The Kia Sephia, produced from 1992 to 2003, is a compact car that has faced various issues throughout its three generations. This article will focus on the second generation, specifically the 1998 Kia Sephia, and its common problems based on complaints from owners.
One of the most common issues with the 1998 Kia Sephia is engine stalling due to a faulty idle air control valve. The idle air control valve is responsible for regulating the engine's idle speed, and if it fails, the engine may stall or have difficulty starting. Symptoms of a faulty idle air control valve include stalling, rough idling, and difficulty starting the engine.
Another common problem with the 1998 Kia Sephia is oil leaks from the valve cover gasket. The valve cover gasket is responsible for sealing the engine's valve cover to prevent oil from leaking out. If the gasket fails, oil may leak out, causing a mess and potentially leading to engine damage. Symptoms of a valve cover gasket leak include oil puddles under the car, a burning oil smell, and reduced engine performance.
The timing belt is also a common issue with the 1998 Kia Sephia. The timing belt is responsible for synchronizing the engine's camshaft and crankshaft. If the timing belt fails, the engine may suffer significant damage. Symptoms of a failing timing belt include a ticking or clicking noise from the engine, difficulty starting the engine, and rough idling.
Electrical issues are also common with the 1998 Kia Sephia. These issues include malfunctioning dashboard clusters, problems with the alternator causing battery draining, and power window motor failure. Symptoms of electrical issues include dashboard warning lights, difficulty starting the car, and electrical components not working properly.
Suspension and braking issues are also prevalent in the 1998 Kia Sephia. These issues include squeaking noise from the front suspension due to worn bushings, brake rotor warping and uneven wear, and brake caliper seizing due to corrosion. Symptoms of suspension and braking issues include unusual noises from the suspension or brakes, difficulty stopping the car, and poor handling.
In conclusion, the 1998 Kia Sephia has faced various common problems, including engine stalling, oil leaks, timing belt failure, electrical issues, and suspension and braking problems. Regular maintenance and prompt repairs can help to prolong the life of the car and prevent these issues from occurring.
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.
How many Kia Sephia were made?
628,168
In South Korea, the Sephia label was retired in 2000 and replaced by the Spectra. The Sephia production totals were 628,168.
Which country made Kia motor?
South Korea
In its 'home' country of South Korea, Kia operates three major vehicle assembly plants – the Hwasung, Sohari and Kwangju facilities – plus a world-class research and development centre employing 8,000 technicians at Namyang and a dedicated environmental R&D centre.
Which engine is used in Kia?
The Kia Seltos has 2 Diesel Engine and 2 Petrol Engine on offer. The Diesel engine is 1497 cc and 1493 cc while the Petrol engine is 1497 cc and 1482 cc . It is available with Automatic & Manual transmission. Depending upon the variant and fuel type the Seltos has a mileage of 17 to 20.7 kmpl .
1998 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:
- Service brakes problems
- Hydraulic problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Electrical system problems
- Power train problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1998 Kia Sephia vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 1998 Kia Sephia
The NHTSA has received 713 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1998 Kia Sephia. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1998 Kia Sephia vehicles.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-11-11
- VIN: KNAFB1216W5
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 KIA SEPHIA. WHILE DRIVING VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE VEHICLE WOULD SHUT OFF WITHOUT WARNING. THE CONTACT ASSOCIATED THE FAILURE WITH NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 99V317000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE). THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED BY THE MANUFACTURER THAT THE VEHICLE HAD BEEN SERVICED FOR THE RECALL IN 1999. THE CONTACT TOOK THE VEHICLE TO HANSON KIA (2300 CARRIAGE LOOP SW, OLYMPIA, WA 98502, (360) 943-2120) AND WAS INFORMED THAT A DIAGNOSTIC TEST NEEDED TO BE PERFORMED TO DETERMINE THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE HAD NOT BEEN REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 119,000.
VISIBILITY/WIPER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-04-16
- VIN: KNAFB1215W5
- Components: VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 KIA SEPHIA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHEN SHE ACTIVATED THE WINDSHIELD WIPERS, THE WIPER SCRATCHED THE WINDSHIELD AND DID NOT CLEAR THE RAIN. THE CONTACT TOOK THE VEHICLE TO THE DEALER AND THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED UNDER NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER: 99V271000 (VISIBILITY) HOWEVER, THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN BACK TO THE DEALER WHERE THEY STATED THAT THE WINDSHIELD WIPER MOTOR NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 55,000.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-07-29
- VIN: KNAFB1213W5
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 KIA SEPHIA. THE CONTACT WAS REVERSING FROM A PARKING SPACE WHEN HE HEARD AN UNUSUAL CLICK. THE STEERING WHEEL BEGAN TO LOCK YET THE CONTACT WAS ABLE TO MOVE THE WHEEL. HE PROCEEDED TO DRIVE TO HIS RESIDENCE AS THE STEERING BECAME INCREASINGLY DIFFICULT. THE CONTACT NOTICED THE RACK AND PINION MOUNTING BRACKET HAD FRACTURED FROM THE FIRE WALL. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGES WERE 120,553.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-12-03
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 KIA SEPHIA. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 35 MPH THE VEHICLE BEGAN TO ACCELERATE TO 50 MPH ON ITS OWN. THE DRIVER STATED THAT HE HAD TO PRESS THE BRAKE PEDAL EXCESSIVELY IN ORDER TO SLOW THE VEHICLE DOWN. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 160,000. THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 171,000. THE VIN WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE DRIVER ALSO STATED THAT HE NOTIFIED THE DEALER AND THEY TOLD HIM THAT SOMEONE WOULD CONTACT HIM.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-01-05
- VIN: KNAFB1214W5
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 KIA SEPHIA. THE CONTACT NOTICED THAT HIS VEHICLE WOULD PERIODICALLY FAIL TO START. ON ONE OCCASION, THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A REPAIR SHOP AND THE MECHANIC CHANGED THE FUEL PUMP. A FEW WEEKS LATER, THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE MECHANIC CHANGED THE FUEL PUMP RELAY, BUT THE FAILURE STILL OCCURRED. THE MECHANIC REFERENCED NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBERS 99V317000 AND 99V318000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP) AND SHOWED THE CONTACT A WIRE IN THE FUEL SYSTEM THAT WAS NOT INSULATED AND HAD BEEN OVERHEATING. ONCE THE WIRE WAS REMOVED, THE FAILURE SEEM TO BE RESOLVED. THE MECHANIC REPLACED ALL THE WIRES AND CONNECTORS AND RE-SAUTERED EVERYTHING. THE MANUFACTURER STATED THAT THE RECALL REPAIR WAS ALREADY PERFORMED ON THE VEHICLE AND WOULD NOT ASSIST. THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 109,250 AND FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 108,083.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-06-01
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: THE DASH BOARD IS CURLING UP AROUND THE FRONT WINDOW VENTS WHICH IS KICKING THE VENTS OUT. *TR
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-04-10
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: MY 1998 KIA SEPHIA REAR BRAKE PAD FELL OFF FELL OFF THE SHOE. APPARENTLY THEY ARE HELD ON BY GLUE. IT WAS REPLACED BUT I STILL HAVE PROBLEMS WHEN IT RAINS A LOT , THEY LOCK UP WHEN PARKED. I DON'T DARE USE MY EMERGENCY BRAKE BECAUSE THE BRAKES LOCK UP. *TR
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-08-21
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- VIN: KNAFB1216W5
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: THE AIRBAG IN MY DAUGHTERS KIA SEPHIA 1998 PASSENGER SIDE ONLY DEPLOYED WHILE SHE WAS SITTING AT A RED LIGHT. THERE WAS NO ACCIDENT AND NO REASON FOR THE AIRBAG TO GO OFF. TOOK TO DEALSHIP FOR REVIEW AND WAS TOLD THAT THE EXPERT LOOKED AT THE CAR AND SAID THERE IS NOTHING THEY CAN DO AND NO IDEA WHY IT HAPPEN. THEN CONTINUED TO SAY THAT SOMEONE COULD HAVE DONE SOMETHING WRONG TO THE CAR AND WE WOULD NEVER NO, BUT THEY WERE NOT GOING TO SPEND ANY MORE TIME OR MONEY TO FIND OUT WHAT REALLY MAY HAVE CAUSED THIS. MY DAUGHTER, THE DRIVER, WAS SLIGHTLY INJURED AND NOW IS AFFRAID WHILE DRIVING OR RIDING IN A CAR.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-03-26
- Crash: 1
- VIN: KNAFB1215W5
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNED A 1998 KIA SEPHIA. A RELATIVE WAS DRIVING THE CONSUMERS VEHICLE AND HE SAW HIS BROTHER DRIVING IN THE OPPOSITE DIRECTION. HE SWERVED TO PLAY A GAME WITH HIS BROTHER, BUT INSTEAD HE LOST CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE AND CRASHED HEAD ON INTO THE OTHER VEHICLE. THE DRIVERS AIR BAG FAILED TO DEPLOY, HOWEVER THE PASSENGER AIR BAG DEPLOYED AND THERE WERE NO PASSENGERS. UPDATED 04/30/08. LJ THE CONSUMERS ALSO OWNS A 2000 TOYOTA TACOMA WHICH WAS ALSO INVOLVED IN THE ACCIDENT AND THE DRIVERS AIR BAG DID NOT DEPLOY. UPDATED
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-03-02
- VIN: KNAFB1217W5
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: I BROUGHT A NEW KIA SEPHIA IN 1998, AND HAD NOTHING BUT TROUBLE WITH IT! TRANSMISSION WAS REPLACED 2 TIMES BY THE MECHANIC FOR KIA MOTORS, AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED AGAIN ON 7/2007. ALSO , THE BRAKES HAVE BEEN REPLACED 4 TIMES AND NEED TO BE REPLACED AGAIN. NOW THE HEADLIGHTS KEEP TURNING OFF WHILE DRIVING AT NIGHT, BUT NO MECHANIC CAN LOCATE THE ELECTRICAL SHORT PROBLEM. *AK
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-10-25
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: TL*- THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHEN TRYING TO MERGE INTO TRAFFIC WITH THE 1998 KIA SOPHIA IT STALLED. WHEN THIS HAPPENED INSTRUMENT PANEL LIGHTS TURNED ON. THE VEHICLE STALLED IN HEAVY TRAFFIC, AND SHE HAD TO PUT THE VEHICLE IN PARK AND RESTART IT. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE'S CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 70,000 MILES. THE DEALERSHIP INFORMED HER THAT SHE NEEDED A NEW VEHICLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE DEALERSHIP FOUND NOTHING WRONG WITH THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE STALLED INTERMITTENTLY. AT TIMES WHEN THE VEHICLE STALLED, AND SHE TRIES TO RESTART IT, THE VEHICLE WOULD NOT RESTART. *AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-05-19
- Fire: 1
- VIN: KNAFB1217W5
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: MY WIFE WAS DRIVING OUR 1998 KIA SEPHIA AND THE ENGINE BEGAN TO STALL. SHE PULLED INTO A PARKING LOT AND THE ENGINE CAUGHT ON FIRE. MY WIFE RAN AWAY FORM THE VEHICLE. THE WHOLE FRONT OF THE CAR WAS BURNED UP. *NM
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-01-06
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: FLASHING OVERDRIVE DASH LIGHT AND CHECK ENGINE LIGHT CONTINUALLY LIT DUE TO FAULTY PRESSURE SENSOR AT FUEL INJECTOR. *NM
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-06-01
- VIN: KNAFB1218W5
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: OVER A PERIOD OF TIME, APPROXIMATELY 70,00 MILES ON MY CAR, THE AC/HEATER FAN MOTOR WILL BLOW AIR INTERMITTENTLY, REGARDLESS OF THE FAN'S SPEED SETTING. EVENTUALLY, THE FAN STOPS BLOWING ALL TOGETHER. THIS SAME THING HAS HAPPENED WITH MY 1999 KIA SEPHIA. *JB
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,STRUCTURE,EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-07-15
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,STRUCTURE,EQUIPMENT
- Summary: 1-LEAKING BRAKE FLUID INSIDE FIREWALL 2-DASHBOARD DISFIGURING 3-EXAUST MANIFOLD GASKETS NOT LASTING
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-06-04
- VIN: KNAFB121XW5
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: DT: VEHICLE ENGINE STALLS. KIA 1998 HAD BEEN RECALLED. PROBLEM WAS SUPPOSED TO BE FIXED, HOWEVER, VEHICLE CONTINUES TO HAVE PROBLEM. *TT
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-10-15
- VIN: NOT AVAILAB
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: THE CONSUMER STATES THE FRONT BRAKES ARE WEARING PREMATURELY. THE PART HAVE BEEN REPLACED FIVE TIMES HOWEVER PROBLEM STILL EXIST. THE CAUSE HAS YET TO BE DETERMINED. PLEASE PROVIDE ADDITIONAL INFORMATION. *NM
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-10-12
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: KNAFB1216W5
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING 60 MPH THE VEHICLE WAS INVOLVED IN A FRONTAL COLLISION. THE DUAL AIR BAG DID NOT DEPLOY UPON IMPACT. THE CONSUMER SUSTAINED BRUISING FROM THE SEAT BELT. PLEASE PROVIDE ADDITIONAL INFORMATION.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-09-07
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: THE CONSUMER APPLIED THE BRAKES AND THE PEDAL WENT TO THE FLOOR. THE DRIVER WAS ABLE TO MAINTAIN CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE AND DROVE TO THE DEALER. THE MECHANIC INFORMED THE CONSUMER THAT THE PROBLEM COULD NOT BE DUPLICATED. THE CONSUMER INFORMED THE MECHANIC THIS PROBLEM HAS OCCURRED MORE THAN ONCE AND THE PROBLEM HAS NOT BEEN RESOLVED. PLEASE PROVIDE ADDITIONAL INFORMATION. *JB
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-08-27
- VIN: KNAFB121557
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: WHILE SHIFTING TRANSMISSION DOWN SHIFTED ON ITS OWN, AND THE SHIFT LOCK SYSTEM FAILED. CONSUMER WAS UNABLE TO UNLOCK THE SHIFT LEVER IN ORDER TO MOVE THE VEHICLE. CONSUMER HAD THE VEHICLE TOWED TO THE DEALER FOR INSPECTION. *AK
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-07-19
- Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING AT 55 MPH AND WITHOUT ANY WARNING, THE HOOD OPENED AND DENT THE WINDSHIELD. CONSUMER INDICATED FOR THE LAST PAST SIX MONTHS THE HOOD HASN'T BEEN OPENED. DEALERSHIP HAS NOT BEEN NOTIFIED. PLEASE PROVIDE FURTHER INFORMATION. *LA
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-09-20
- Fire: 1
- VIN: KNAFB1210W5
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING 55 MPH, THE VEHICLE STALLED. THE CONSUMER TRIED TO RESTART THE VEHICLE BUT WAS UNABLE TO DO SO. THE CONSUMER NOTICED SMOKE COMING FROM UNDERNEATH THE HOOD. IT CAUGHT ON FIRE. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT WAS CALLED TO EXTINGUISH THE FIRE. THERE WERE NO INJURIES TO REPORT. HOWEVER, VEHICLE WAS TOTALED. *AK THE CONSUMER STATED THAT THERE WAS A HARD START THAT WOULD NOT HOLD FUEL PRESSURE. *SC *JB
STEERING,SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-09-25
- VIN: KNAFB1215W5
- Components: STEERING,SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: REAR DRUM BRAKES SQUEALED LOUDLY, AND IT DID NOT FEEL AS IF THEY WERE WORKING IN MOIST CONDITIONS. ALSO, A STEERING GEAR BRACKET WELD CRACKED, MAKING IT DIFFICULT TO STEER VEHICLE. AT LOW SPEEDS CONSUMER HAD DIFFICULT MAINTAINING CONTROL. STEERING WHEEL WAS FLOPPING AROUND. *AK
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-02-08
- VIN: KNAFB1211W5
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: BATTERY WASN'T HOLDING CHARGE, NEEDED CONTINUOUS REFILL WITH DISTILLED WATER, OVERHEATING, OVERFLOWING AND SPILLING ACID CORRODING OTHER PARTS. (NAR) *PH *CB
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: KNAFB1214W5
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: PROBLEMS WITH VEHICLE'S FUEL GAUGE AS WELL AS VEHICLE HOLDING FUEL.*LA *MR
1998 Kia Sephia recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 6 recalls for different components of the 1998 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.
- Manufacturer: KIA MOTORS AMERICA, INC.
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HAZARD FLASHING WARNING LIGHTS:SWITCH
- Summary: ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES WITH 36,000 MILES OR LESS AS OF JULY 15, 2002, AN ELECTRICAL CONTACT PROBLEM MAY HAVE DEVELOPED IN THE HAZARD SWITCH WHICH COULD RESULT IN INOPERATIVE HAZARD LIGHTS AND/OR INOPERATIVE TURN SIGNALS.
- Consequence: THE LOSS OF TURN SIGNALS OR REAR HAZARD LAMPS COULD FAIL TO WARN A FOLLOWING DRIVER THAT THE VEHICLE IS TURNING AND/OR IS STOPPED AND COULD RESULT IN A CRASH.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE HAZARD SWITCH. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN SEPTEMBER 6, 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.
- Manufacturer: KIA MOTORS AMERICA, INC.
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:EMISSION CONTROL
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. MANUFACTURING CHANGES WERE MADE TO THE ORVR SPRING FORCE AND FLOAT WIRE LENGTH REDUCING THE VALVE ANGLE. CERTAIN VALVES CAUSED FUEL SHUT OFF BEFORE THE TANK REACHED 95% OF NOMINAL CAPACITY.
- Consequence: THIS WOULD CAUSE CUSTOMERS TO ADD MORE FUEL TO THE TANK CAUSING FUEL SPILLBACK OR SPITBACK FROM THE FUEL FILLER NECK.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE ORVR VALVE. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN NOVEMBER 13, 2000. 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.
- Manufacturer: KIA MOTORS AMERICA, INC.
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. THE ELECTRICAL CIRCUIT FOR THE FUEL PUMP IS GROUNDED AT JUNCTION CONNECTOR G300. IF THE PIN TENSION IS POOR, OR THE BOLT SECURING THE CONNECTOR TO THE VEHICLE FLOOR IS NOT TIGHTENED SUFFICIENTLY, A POOR CONNECTION IS MADE. AS THE FUEL PUMP OPERATES, THE POOR CONNECTION CAN CREATE HEAT WHICH IN TURN INCREASES RESISTANCE. EVENTUALLY THE FUEL PUMP WILL NOT RECEIVE ENOUGH CURRENT TO OPERATE.
- Consequence: THIS CONDITION COULD CAUSE THE ENGINE TO STALL, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
- Remedy: THIS CORRECTIVE ACTION IS BEING PERFORMED IN CONJUNCTION WITH RECALL NO. 99V317.
- Manufacturer: KIA MOTORS AMERICA, INC.
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. ELECTRICAL CURRENT TO THE FUEL PUMP PASSES THROUGH THE C304 AND C305 CONNECTORS. IF EXPOSED TO MOISTURE, THESE CONNECTORS COULD CORRODE. OVER TIME, THE FUEL PUMP WILL NOT RECEIVE ENOUGH CURRENT TO OPERATE.
- Consequence: THIS CONDITION COULD CAUSE THE ENGINE TO STALL, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE EXISTING CONNECTORS AND REPOSITION THOSE CONNECTORS TO AN AREA WHERE THE PLACEMENT IS DESIGNED TO PREVENT CONTACT WITH MOISTURE.
- Manufacturer: KIA MOTORS AMERICA, INC.
- Components: VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD WIPER/WASHER:LINKAGES
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. THE BALL SOCKET ON THE WINDSHIELD WIPER LINK MAY BE OUT OF TOLERANCE RESULTING IN THE LINK DISENGAGING FROM THE WIPER MOTOR DRIVE UNDER LOAD, SUCH AS PUSHING AGAINST ICE, SNOW OR OTHER RESISTANCE. ALSO THE WIPER ARM RETAINING NUT COULD BE INADEQUATELY TIGHTENED ALLOWING THE WIPER ARM TO SLIP AND/OR STOP FUNCTIONING.
- Consequence: THIS CONDITION COULD CAUSE IMPAIRMENT OF VISIBILITY IN INCLEMENT WEATHER INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE WINDSHIELD WIPER LINK AND ALSO PROPERLY TIGHTEN THE WIPER ARM RETAINING NUTS.
Negative 1998 Kia Sephia car reviews
Positive 1998 Kia Sephia car reviews
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This is such a great car! I bought it with 53,000 miles on it and have put another 60,000 on it. Although parts can be a little hard to find, they are not that expensive at all. I never have to worry about whether it will start in the morning or afternoon. I would highly recommend it to anyone looking to buy a car. As with anything else, a car is only as good as you treat it and as reliable as you maintain it. I would feel comfortable driving anywhere in it!
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Your Kia story is amazing! It's great to hear that your car was so reliable and fun to drive. It's impressive that it made so many cross-country trips and handled curves so well. It sounds like it was a great budget-friendly option for dependable transportation. Good luck with your new Kia today!
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It's great value for money considering what I paid for it brand new and the use I have gotten out of it. I paid about 10.5k including taxes and a few additions like alloy wheels, power windows/locks and remote keyless entry. My monthly payments hover around $150 after a $1,500 downpayment. I've travelled from Ohio to Florida or New York and back about five or six times, and the car has never let me down nor given a hint that it would. This is an ideal new car for those on a budget like me and students.
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Owned since new--11.5 years now. Only lightly used, but fun and peppy engine with manual (Mazda made I think.) Had brake recall and exhaust repair made under warranty. Other than that, only had to replace old battery. Some of the interior fittings are a bit too cheaply made, but if you take care of it, it will take care of you. Very inexpensive to own; costs almost nothing to insure. I have read that due to relatively high HP to weight ratio (125 HP vs 2400 lbs.) some convert this model to rally car. You could not find a less expensive platform than this one!
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1998 Kia Sephia problems:
What's Wrong with the Kia Sephia?
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Mar 26, 2009 ... My kia sephia is a 1995 and some times when you are driven along it just dies on me some times it will start back up and - Answered by a ...
2000 Kia Sephia - Transmission works, and then it doesn't | Kia Forum
Oct 8, 2013 ... Later on it gets more similar. http://www.kia-forums.com/2g-1998 ... Common Problems That Trigger the P0734 Code: ... 2G (1998 - 2001) Sephia.
Q&A: Kia Sephia 1997 Engine Issues - DTC P1500, Idle Control ...
May 4, 2009 ... Any ideas on which sensor it may be, if it is a sensor. Is this a common problem with Kia's?
Other years of Kia Sephia
Are you having problems with your 1998 Kia Sephia?
Dino Windler 2025-01-08
I received this car when I was 16, almost two years ago, with 48k miles on it. It has been an okay first car, but there have been a few issues. The relay to the fuel pump stopped working, so sometimes it won't start if it doesn't have a good connection. Additionally, the wiring job done by Kia is poor, as some lights only come on sometimes. However, overall, everything else is okay. It's a good starter car, just be gentle with it!
Arnaldo Hodkiewicz 2024-11-22
I completely understand where people are coming from when they talk about the Sephia LS. When I first bought my car back in '98, I had a bit of a scare when my engine fuse blew out with only 25 miles on the car. Luckily, a kind mechanic was able to temporarily replace it with a windshield fuse until I could get to the dealership later that day. Since then, I've had a few issues with the car, like the front dashboard swelling up in the L.A. heat and my gas gauge breaking. Unfortunately, fixing these problems can be quite expensive. However, after 7 years and over 81,000 miles, I can confidently say that I never worry about my engine starting in the mornings. While I am purchasing a new car, I know that my mom can always depend on a Kia.
Mitchell Cummings 2024-11-17
I purchased this car with 75000 miles on it, and had the transmission replaced. However, at 94000 miles, the transmission is experiencing issues again, along with several other problems. It is clear that the car's design and quality are subpar, and it cannot be considered a reliable vehicle.
Eldred Torphy 2024-10-18
I have successfully replaced the transmission 4 times on the '98 KIA. Additionally, I had to replace the warped dashboard. The fan switch has been replaced a couple of times.
Kaden O'Keefe 2024-05-28
If you're looking for a car from this year, I would recommend either a '98 Toyota Corolla or a '98 Honda Civic. While these cars may offer some benefits in terms of value and fuel efficiency, it's important to keep in mind that they may require a significant investment of both time and money due to potential mechanical issues.