Kia Spectra problems
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Kia Spectra model years
Common Kia Spectra problems
Based on complaints from owners of the Kia Spectra, several common problems have been identified:
- Airbags & Seat Belts: Owners have reported issues related to airbags and seat belts. Complaints include the airbag light being on, the "airbag off" light being on, and seat belt malfunctions. These issues can impact the safety features of the vehicle and require prompt attention to ensure proper functioning.
- Engine: Complaints regarding the engine of the Kia Spectra have been raised. Specific problems may include engine performance issues, unusual noises, or malfunctions that affect the overall driving experience. Proper maintenance and timely repairs are essential to address engine-related concerns.
- Transmission: Transmission problems have been reported by Kia Spectra owners. These issues can manifest as difficulties in shifting gears, transmission slipping, or other performance-related issues. Addressing transmission problems promptly is crucial to prevent further damage to the vehicle.
- Fuel System: Some owners have experienced complaints related to the fuel system of the Kia Spectra. These issues may involve fuel delivery problems, fuel leaks, or other fuel system malfunctions. Ensuring the proper functioning of the fuel system is vital for the vehicle's performance and safety.
- HVAC: Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) problems have been noted by Kia Spectra owners. HVAC issues can range from inadequate heating or cooling to problems with the air conditioning system. Maintaining the HVAC system in good condition is essential for passenger comfort and overall driving experience.
- Paintwork and Body: Complaints have been made about the paintwork and body of the Kia Spectra. Owners have reported issues such as paint chipping, paint swelling on certain elements, and poor wear resistance. Regular inspection and maintenance of the paintwork and body can help preserve the vehicle's appearance and prevent corrosion.
These common problems with the Kia Spectra highlight the importance of regular maintenance, prompt repairs, and thorough inspections to ensure the vehicle's reliability and safety. Addressing these issues proactively can help owners maintain the performance and longevity of their Kia Spectra cars.
What problems does Kia Spectra have?
Common Issues with the Kia Spectra
Seat belt malfunction. Airbag light turning on. Issues with the shifting mechanisms. Sensor mats defect.
How long will a Kia Spectra last?
You can expect a Kia Spectra to last at least 200,000 miles with adequate care.
What happened to the Kia Spectra?
The Kia Spectra is a compact car produced by Kia Motors between 2000 and 2009. It succeeded the Kia Sephia and it was replaced by the Kia Forte (also known as Kia Cerato in some markets).
Are there any recalls on the Kia Spectra?
KIA IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2004-2007 SPECTRA LD VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM NOVEMBER 7, 2003, THROUGH MARCH 6, 2007, ORIGINALLY SOLD, OR CURRENTLY REGISTERED IN, CONNECTICUT, DELAWARE, ILLINOIS, INDIANA, IOWA, MAINE, MARYLAND MASSACHUSETTS, MICHIGAN, MINNESOTA, MISSOURI, NEW HAMPSHIRE, NEW JERSEY, NEW YORK, ...
Percentage distribution of complaints by Kia Spectra years
We have researched Kia problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Kia Spectra cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Kia Spectra model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Kia Spectra model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Kia Spectra years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Kia Spectra car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Kia Spectra , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Air bags problems
- Electrical system problems
- Service brakes problems
- Power train problems
- Vehicle speed control problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Kia Spectra vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Spectra model years
A total of 192 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Spectra model years
There were a total of 21 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Spectra model years
There were a total of 164 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with deaths by Spectra model years
There were a total of 6 complaints that resulted in a death. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 956 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Kia Spectra . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Kia Spectra vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Kia Spectra 2008
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-12
- Date Complaint: 2024-07-15
- VIN: KNAFE121085
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: After starting car, for first 15-20 mins, all normal. After speedometer go erratic (showing slower than actual speed - or - higher than actual speed) and soon after it just stops working. No check engine light. Dangerous to drive without knowing actual speed. Have to use mobile phone app like Waze or something which shows apx speed. Upon internet search, I found there are many Kia spectra Ex (from 05-09 models) reported similar issues. This situation is dangerous as driver may be following speedometer on highway and ending up driving slower than actual speed. NHTSA should issue a recall. Kia - as usual - never acknowledged issue to save money. Dealership recommending me buy a new car rather than fixing the issue or at least attempting to fix it. When declined for trade-in (or buy a new car) they demanded upfront diagnostic charges without telling me what is actual issue.
Kia Spectra 2008
- Date Of Incident: 2024-01-29
- Date Complaint: 2024-01-30
- VIN: KNAFE122585
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: I have tires sized 195/60r15. I was having problems with shaking at a certain speed. my mechanic checked all the options that could have been mechanical and directed me to a tire shop. I brought the car in for them to check for balance. rims, etc. During the inspection, they discovered that both rear tires, driver and passenger side were separating. I had never had problems with tires until I purchased these. The third attached photo was after I first purchased the tires. The piece was shaved off and I don't know why. I had to replace it. I contacted this office on November 19, 2023, with the initial complaint about the tires. Tracking number 11555870.
Kia Spectra 2007
- Date Of Incident: 2022-09-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-01-22
- VIN: KNAFE121075
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: Passenger Air bag sensor light has come on and stayed on. Took to AutoZone and have them put it on the code reader and said it was something faulty in the sensor mat under the seat.
Kia Spectra 2009
- Date Of Incident: 2023-11-10
- Date Complaint: 2023-11-20
- VIN: KNAFE221795
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: I am having a problem with my hazard turning signal lights it won't turn on.
Kia Spectra 2008
- Date Of Incident: 2023-11-18
- Date Complaint: 2023-11-19
- VIN: KNAFE122585
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: 195/60/15 I purchased four new tires From Prospect Tire and Wheels on September 23, 2022, with an alignment. In August of this year, 2023, I returned because of an issue with one of the tires, and the alignment. They told me after replacing the most serious issue that all four tires had "bubbles". They weren't willing to do anything except to rotate the "bad" tires to the rear of the car and sell me one other that absolutely had to be replaced. They offered me the contact information for their distributors as they had no idea which one it was they got the tires from. I contacted Cooper about the issue and the representative I spoke to, Julie, said they had no record of them because these particular tires were destined for Mexico? In my response below, I indicate when the tires were first purchased up until now, because I've had nothing but issues with them since.
Kia Spectra 2006
- Date Of Incident: 2023-09-28
- Date Complaint: 2023-09-29
- VIN: KNAFE121365
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: My car just stop on me. I think my engine is not working had to called a tow truck to take me home and car.
Kia Spectra 2007
- Date Of Incident: 2023-05-05
- Date Complaint: 2023-05-11
- VIN: KNAFE161375
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: I purchased my 2007 Spectra5 used with 155,000 miles on it. The engine had no codes or any stored codes. It ran fine until I filled it up with gas. I DO NOT overfill the tank because I understand EVAP issues. After filling up the vehicle would stall at idle and occasionally lose power (momentarily) at highway speeds (55 mph and up). Obviously this is an extremely dangerous situation! Once the gas level got below 1/2 tank the issues went away…but now I ONLY fill the tank to halfway and the problems arise again every so often. Since there are no codes present I cannot replicate the issue without possibly damaging components further and I already replaced the battery, plugs, IAC valve, MAF sensor, and oil to try to remedy this problem. From reading other’s comments about this same problem I do not want to keep pouring money into a problem that KIA itself seems unable, and unwilling, to fix. This is extremely frustrating and dangerous as occasionally the vehicle loses all power on the highway at speeds exceeding 55mph and I feel an accident is inevitable. I’m not financially well off enough to just eat the cost of this vehicle and get a new (used) vehicle though so KIA has really put me (AND OTHER DRIVERS) in a difficult and dangerous position. As others have stated from mechanics who have tried to diagnose this issue, there may be a serious issue with the EVAP system including, but not limited to, the charcoal canister and purge valve. I will try replacing the fuel filter in the gas tank but I do not have high hopes that this will fix this problem. Once again, there are no codes present before or after these stalling/power loss problems and live data from and OBD2 scanner is within parameters for this vehicle and it’s age. I need to report this now so everyone, ESPECIALLY KIA, is aware of this issue and information.
Kia Spectra 2006
- Date Of Incident: 2022-03-01
- Date Complaint: 2022-10-26
- VIN: knafe121365
- Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
- Summary: The contact owns a 2006 Kia Spectra. The contact stated that three of her interior door handles had become defective and the doors could not be opened from inside the vehicle. The contact stated that the rear passenger’s side door and the front driver’s and passenger’s side door handles were defective. The contact called the local dealer and scheduled an appointment to have the door handles repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 67,000.
Kia Spectra 2007
- Date Of Incident: 2021-09-01
- Date Complaint: 2022-09-22
- VIN: KNAFE121075
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: I first noticed my air bag light (the one by the clock) coming on and off when my granddaughters weight went from under weight to appropriate weight to ride in the front seat. It would come on and off as she would adjust herself or move around in the seat. Sometimes it would stay on or sometimes it would stay off. When that light stopped coming on and off the one in the dash console where the speedometer is, that light has been coming on and staying on warning there's a problem with the airbag according to the manual. I entered my VIN number because I know Kia has had problems with some of there airbags but my VIN number was not listed. I did go by an auto parts house to make sure that was indeed the airbag warning light and I was told that the airbag may or maynot go off in a cash or it could go off at anytime. THIS IS VERY DANGEROUS if I was told correctly and felt that this needed to be looked into further. Thank You
Kia Spectra 2006
- Date Of Incident: 2022-05-04
- Date Complaint: 2022-08-01
- VIN: Knafe122165
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: While driving at freeway speeds vehicle suddenly slams down a gear or two causing moderate whiplash,and scaring the living crap out of myself and any passengers, upon having vehicle inspected by an ase certified repair technician he confirmed my complaint and stated that car seemed to be going into either second or third gear causing the vehicle to jerk and slow rapidly accompanied by loud bang or clunk noise and making me loose control of vehicle problem only occurs once vehicle is warmed up and at operating temperature, had transmission and electrical components inspected by professional transmission repair (atra) certified repair facility the owner of this shop told me specifically that he has seen this same problem with numerous kia spectra models ranging from about 2003 through 2009 yr models , kia denies that the vehicle has a problem that is manufacturer error related and stated and I quote that the vehicle possibly has a transmission control module failing however the kia technician who drove the vehicle refused to be identified by name for fear of repercussions at his place of employment from his supervisors, please note this is not an isolated incident as it occurs almost every time the car is driven .
Kia Spectra 2007
- Date Of Incident: 2022-05-12
- Date Complaint: 2022-05-15
- VIN: KNAFE122475
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: I was drive my 2007 Kia Spectra EX in Bakersfield, CA. All of a sudden I parked my car at the gas station, I filled the car up, and I tried putting the transmission into drive but the car would not go forward. I went and searched why the car would not go forward, and I found out other Kia Spectra owners had the same problem. Is there any way to make Kia recall those cars and replace or repair the transmissions under a national recall.
Kia Spectra 2004
- Date Of Incident: 2022-03-24
- Date Complaint: 2022-03-28
- Fire: 1
- VIN: KNAFB161645
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: The contact owns a 2004 Kia Spectra. The contact stated the cruise control feature was not operating properly. The contact stated while her boyfriend was driving and approaching a traffic light, when depressing on the brake pedal the vehicle failed to stop and accelerated independently to 80 mph. The contact stated no warning light was illuminated. The driver was able to stop the vehicle by using the emergency brakes and parked on the side of the road. The vehicle was not drivable. The vehicle was towed to her residence. The contact stated while inspecting the vehicle, they noticed the cruise cable was not in place was separate from the box. The contact also stated she saw the area was black/burned. The contact called local dealer and them aware of the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired.The manufacturer had not been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 121,000.
Kia Spectra 2009
- Date Of Incident: 2021-12-31
- Date Complaint: 2021-12-31
- VIN: KNAFE221095
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: My car seems like someone entered something in my gas tank while i may been in the store
Kia Spectra 2008
- Date Of Incident: 2021-02-20
- Date Complaint: 2021-12-10
- Crash: 1
- VIN: Knafe121985
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Duplicate transactions that we're compromising but verified through multiple accounts that were unauthorized and purchased by another provider or driver that was added to orginal policy along with several price gouges in Individual policies that had ties to driving history altered n edited it would seem to cause infamation to the cost of the driver would be expected to pay we meaning the eight orginal known targets at first glance all were verified as fatca act needing to be filed and then problems with verification of identity and us citizenship even from. 15 states that had alternate unauthorized banking information on file to match so.e bussiness n private insurance policies bought n then deliberately bolos begin called on the victims for reprocessed purposes of a new getaway car for the villain in this scenario. We also found that multiple devices that were begin paid for were attached through pre paid account to the orginal account that was authorized user ot driver has no prior knowledge of the added account or debit card that made the transactions or the fact that the mail was begindeffered and altered to manipulate the issues further from finding the assailants that are using victims as scapegoats by the end of the fun I. Ruin my life with the damage to keep on touching and effecting everything else.
Kia Spectra 2007
- Date Of Incident: 2009-10-15
- Date Complaint: 2021-10-15
- VIN: knafe122975
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: Doors LOCK and UNLOCK on their own. I have been locked out numerous times, some with the engine still running.I brought car to Kia numerous times, and was told there was nothing that could be done, it was a manufacturing defect. I feel this could prevent a very serious problem , both in a collision, or if a child were to be locked in the car. At times the car locks by itself so quickly, I cannot even turn the key fast enough to open the door. I have owned this car since 2009, and it has happened at least 50 or more times.
Latest 5 recalls Kia Spectra
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 5 recalls for different components of the Kia Spectra.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Kia Spectra 2004
- Report Received Date: 2011-04-25
- Manufacturer: KIA MOTORS CORPORATION
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY:MOUNTING
- Summary: KIA IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2004-2007 SPECTRA LD VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM NOVEMBER 7, 2003, THROUGH MARCH 6, 2007, ORIGINALLY SOLD, OR CURRENTLY REGISTERED IN, CONNECTICUT, DELAWARE, ILLINOIS, INDIANA, IOWA, MAINE, MARYLAND MASSACHUSETTS, MICHIGAN, MINNESOTA, MISSOURI, NEW HAMPSHIRE, NEW JERSEY, NEW YORK, OHIO, PENNSYLVANIA, RHODE ISLAND, VERMONT, WEST VIRGINIA, WISCONSIN, AND THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA. THERE IS A POSSIBILITY THAT CORROSION OF THE FUEL TANK STRAPS WHICH HOLD THE TANK MAY OCCUR AS A RESULT OF PROLONGED EXPOSURE TO ROAD SALT. AS A RESULT OF THE CORROSION, ONE OR BOTH STRAPS MAY SEPARATE ALLOWING THE FUEL TANK TO CONTACT THE GROUND AND POSSIBLY DISRUPT THE INTEGRITY OF THE TANK.
- Consequence: THE FUEL TANK CAN FALL FROM THE VEHICLE AND STRIKE THE GROUND WHICH COULD CAUSE A FUEL LEAK. LEAKING FUEL CAN CREATE A FIRE HAZARD.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE FUEL TANK STRAPS AND ATTACHING HARDWARE WITH NEW ZINC COATED PARTS. THIS SERVICE WILL BE PERFORMED FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON JUNE 6, 2011. OWNERS MAY CONTACT KIA AT 1-800-333-4542.
- Model: Kia Spectra 2005
- Report Received Date: 2011-04-25
- Manufacturer: KIA MOTORS CORPORATION
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY:MOUNTING
- Summary: KIA IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2004-2007 SPECTRA LD VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM NOVEMBER 7, 2003, THROUGH MARCH 6, 2007, ORIGINALLY SOLD, OR CURRENTLY REGISTERED IN, CONNECTICUT, DELAWARE, ILLINOIS, INDIANA, IOWA, MAINE, MARYLAND MASSACHUSETTS, MICHIGAN, MINNESOTA, MISSOURI, NEW HAMPSHIRE, NEW JERSEY, NEW YORK, OHIO, PENNSYLVANIA, RHODE ISLAND, VERMONT, WEST VIRGINIA, WISCONSIN, AND THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA. THERE IS A POSSIBILITY THAT CORROSION OF THE FUEL TANK STRAPS WHICH HOLD THE TANK MAY OCCUR AS A RESULT OF PROLONGED EXPOSURE TO ROAD SALT. AS A RESULT OF THE CORROSION, ONE OR BOTH STRAPS MAY SEPARATE ALLOWING THE FUEL TANK TO CONTACT THE GROUND AND POSSIBLY DISRUPT THE INTEGRITY OF THE TANK.
- Consequence: THE FUEL TANK CAN FALL FROM THE VEHICLE AND STRIKE THE GROUND WHICH COULD CAUSE A FUEL LEAK. LEAKING FUEL CAN CREATE A FIRE HAZARD.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE FUEL TANK STRAPS AND ATTACHING HARDWARE WITH NEW ZINC COATED PARTS. THIS SERVICE WILL BE PERFORMED FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON JUNE 6, 2011. OWNERS MAY CONTACT KIA AT 1-800-333-4542.
- Model: Kia Spectra 2006
- Report Received Date: 2011-04-25
- Manufacturer: KIA MOTORS CORPORATION
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY:MOUNTING
- Summary: KIA IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2004-2007 SPECTRA LD VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM NOVEMBER 7, 2003, THROUGH MARCH 6, 2007, ORIGINALLY SOLD, OR CURRENTLY REGISTERED IN, CONNECTICUT, DELAWARE, ILLINOIS, INDIANA, IOWA, MAINE, MARYLAND MASSACHUSETTS, MICHIGAN, MINNESOTA, MISSOURI, NEW HAMPSHIRE, NEW JERSEY, NEW YORK, OHIO, PENNSYLVANIA, RHODE ISLAND, VERMONT, WEST VIRGINIA, WISCONSIN, AND THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA. THERE IS A POSSIBILITY THAT CORROSION OF THE FUEL TANK STRAPS WHICH HOLD THE TANK MAY OCCUR AS A RESULT OF PROLONGED EXPOSURE TO ROAD SALT. AS A RESULT OF THE CORROSION, ONE OR BOTH STRAPS MAY SEPARATE ALLOWING THE FUEL TANK TO CONTACT THE GROUND AND POSSIBLY DISRUPT THE INTEGRITY OF THE TANK.
- Consequence: THE FUEL TANK CAN FALL FROM THE VEHICLE AND STRIKE THE GROUND WHICH COULD CAUSE A FUEL LEAK. LEAKING FUEL CAN CREATE A FIRE HAZARD.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE FUEL TANK STRAPS AND ATTACHING HARDWARE WITH NEW ZINC COATED PARTS. THIS SERVICE WILL BE PERFORMED FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON JUNE 6, 2011. OWNERS MAY CONTACT KIA AT 1-800-333-4542.
- Model: Kia Spectra 2007
- Report Received Date: 2011-04-25
- Manufacturer: KIA MOTORS CORPORATION
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY:MOUNTING
- Summary: KIA IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2004-2007 SPECTRA LD VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM NOVEMBER 7, 2003, THROUGH MARCH 6, 2007, ORIGINALLY SOLD, OR CURRENTLY REGISTERED IN, CONNECTICUT, DELAWARE, ILLINOIS, INDIANA, IOWA, MAINE, MARYLAND MASSACHUSETTS, MICHIGAN, MINNESOTA, MISSOURI, NEW HAMPSHIRE, NEW JERSEY, NEW YORK, OHIO, PENNSYLVANIA, RHODE ISLAND, VERMONT, WEST VIRGINIA, WISCONSIN, AND THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA. THERE IS A POSSIBILITY THAT CORROSION OF THE FUEL TANK STRAPS WHICH HOLD THE TANK MAY OCCUR AS A RESULT OF PROLONGED EXPOSURE TO ROAD SALT. AS A RESULT OF THE CORROSION, ONE OR BOTH STRAPS MAY SEPARATE ALLOWING THE FUEL TANK TO CONTACT THE GROUND AND POSSIBLY DISRUPT THE INTEGRITY OF THE TANK.
- Consequence: THE FUEL TANK CAN FALL FROM THE VEHICLE AND STRIKE THE GROUND WHICH COULD CAUSE A FUEL LEAK. LEAKING FUEL CAN CREATE A FIRE HAZARD.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE FUEL TANK STRAPS AND ATTACHING HARDWARE WITH NEW ZINC COATED PARTS. THIS SERVICE WILL BE PERFORMED FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON JUNE 6, 2011. OWNERS MAY CONTACT KIA AT 1-800-333-4542.
- Model: Kia Spectra 2005
- Report Received Date: 2005-04-28
- Manufacturer: KIA MOTORS AMERICA, INC.
- Components: STEERING:LINKAGES:TIE ROD ASSEMBLY
- Summary: ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, THE STEERING TIE RODS MAY HAVE A MANUFACTURING FLAW THAT AFFECTS THE METALLURGY.
- Consequence: IF THE ROD CRACKS OR FAILS, LOSS OF VEHICLE STEERING CONTROL MAY OCCUR WHICH COULD RESULT IN A CRASH.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE STEERING RACK ASSEMBLY, WHICH INCLUDES THE TIE ROD COMPONENTS FREE OF CHARGE. OWNERS WERE NOTIFIED BY TELEPHONE ON APRIL 8, 2005. AN ADDITIONAL LETTER WAS SENT TO OWNERS WHO HAD NOT TAKEN THEIR VEHICLES IN FOR REPAIR. THIS LETTER WAS MAILED MAY 20, 2005. OWNERS MAY CONTACT KIA AT 1-800-333-4542.
Latest negative Kia Spectra car reviews
Latest positive Kia Spectra car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2005
I had to buy my 2005 Spectra EX for $3800 in 2011 after my previous car was stolen. Despite having 98k miles at the time, it has been a great investment as it still runs magnificently with over 180k miles. The 2.0 engine has plenty of power on the highway without having to rev too high. While the automatic gearing has tall gears that can kill performance, manuals are quicker by far. With a 4-speed auto, mine hits 60 in 8.8 seconds and tops out at 126mph, which is about average. The stereo is surprisingly good with a 120 watt 6 speaker setup, and the interior materials are of high quality. Having previously owned a Honda, I can confidently say that Kia is quite close in terms of quality. In my opinion, Kias are excellent vehicles, regardless of what anyone else may say.
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Vehicle year: 2006
Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I just wanted to say that I really appreciate my 2006 Kia Spectra SX, even though I bought it used and had to fix some issues from the previous owner. The SX wheels, suspension, and body are definitely a plus compared to other models, and I'm pleasantly surprised by how much interior room it has for a compact car. Plus, the trunk is a nice size and it has more than enough power to get around. I've found that if I drive with a light foot on the pedal, I can get mid to high 20's MPG with mixed driving. Thanks for listening!
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Vehicle year: 2006
I was used to a 6 cylinder and expected the car to be a lot less peppy, but I was pleasantly surprised! I test drove the 2 smallest cars from every Japanese and Korean automaker before I settled on this car, and I found the interior of the Kia to be very comfortable.
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Vehicle year: 2009
I purchased my Spectra just 8 months ago with barely over 8,000 miles on it. I was drawn to the car because of the manual transmission and so far, I absolutely love it! The only issue I've experienced is that the cruise control won't always set, but it's going to the dealership on Monday. Despite what other reviews may say, I get excellent mileage on my KIA. I have a 55-mile commute to work and have gotten anywhere from 30-38 mpg depending on my driving habits (if you know what I mean ;)). My in-town mpg is even better, I regularly get 40+ mpg and have even had as high as 52mpg in town! I recalculated 3x because I couldn't believe it! Overall, it's a fantastic car and with the sunroof and factory rear spoiler, it looks sporty too!
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Vehicle year: 2005
Hi there! I'm the second owner of this car and I bought it back in 2013 with 160,000 miles for 3k. The car was in reasonable condition with minor wear and tear, dents and dings on the exterior. Mechanically, it was sound. After a few thousand miles, I had to replace the radio, clutch, brake caliper, and timing belt, but those are all expected to be replaced at 160,000 miles. Since then, everything has been great, except for the transmission synchronizers which are starting to fail. I still use this car as my daily driver and commute 48 miles every day. To date, I have 186,458 miles on it, which is not bad for a KIA. I may just buy another one when this one finally decides to rest. Oh, and for the sake of argument, I drive very spirited. ***Update*** I've driven up to 210,000 miles and only had to replace a small section of my exhaust which cost me $100. No other mechanical failures yet!
Are you having problems with your Kia Spectra?
Edgardo Ferry 2025-04-19
Vehicle year: 2004
I bought this vehicle from a dealer in Barrie, Ontario in September 2004. At the time of purchase, it had 18,000 miles on it and I was informed that it was previously a rental car. However, the check engine light was on from the very beginning. The most concerning issue was that it would hesitate and not shift gears properly, resulting in a lack of power. Sometimes turning the car off and back on would reset the issue. I took it to Barrie Kia before moving, but they were unable to diagnose the problem since it wasn't happening at the time. I expressed my concern that if it turned out to be transmission-related after the warranty period, I would not be happy. Since then, I have replaced the alternator and battery while working at Honda. Currently, there are five codes present.
Brain Kuvalis 2025-04-16
Vehicle year: 2004
I like the car! Although, it could use more leg room for medium to tall height drivers. Once it gets past about 30, it's smooth sailing, despite the slow start-up speed. Overall, it's a good economy car.
Keeley Schaden 2025-04-15
Vehicle year: 2007
I bought this car used in 2014. It only had 49k miles on it and was a one owner car. I thought I had a great deal since it had such low mileage for the age and that it was a one owner car so I bought it after my mechanic looked at it. Unfortunately, about a month after purchase, I filled my tank and it began stalling (it's an automatic) and releasing black smoke out of the exhaust. I immediately got it towed to the dealership and they replaced all of my spark plugs and fuel lines, which solved the problem. Now, a year later at 59k miles, I filled my tank to only 3 quarters of a tank and the same problem is occurring. I wish I knew what I was getting into, or else I would have gotten something more reliable.
Tom Kemmer 2025-04-10
Vehicle year: 2004
If you are considering purchasing a Kia, I would advise conducting thorough research beforehand. While they may be affordable, my personal experience with this brand has been less than satisfactory. Despite having only 55,000 miles on the car, I have had to replace the transmission three times, the computer once, and the alternator once. Additionally, the struts have been replaced twice. The car has caused me to miss numerous days of work and has been a source of frustration. Unfortunately, Kia cars do not hold their value well, and after five years of ownership, I was only able to sell it for $2,000 after paying over $15,000 for it. Based on my experience, I cannot recommend purchasing a Kia car.
Julian West 2025-04-09
Vehicle year: 2005
This is a great vehicle! Although it may not be a well-known brand, it offers excellent gas mileage, comfort, and reliability. Recently, my wife was in an accident where she hit another car, and while the other car was badly damaged, our car only suffered a damaged bumper which can be easily replaced. Even after the accident, the car still runs smoothly without any issues. I have not experienced any mechanical problems with this car, and I even went more than 6 months without changing the oil to test its durability, and it still ran perfectly. The only thing that could be improved is the design, but that's just a minor detail.