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: 2008
This is one of the finest compact cars on the market today. The features that this car offers are absolutely phenomenal. I initially checked out other compact cars such as the Dodge Caliber, Toyota Matrix, Pontiac Vibe, and Nissan Sentra. However, I have to admit that each of those cars left me desiring and seeking much more. Then I decided to check out the Kia Spectra 5 and that was the best decision I could have made. The car was everything I was looking for in a compact car. The look was sporty and the exterior quality was extremely obvious. The interior was loaded with features that even some bigger cars and SUVs didn't have. Then came the drive and I was sold. Thank you Kia for providing such an amazing car!
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Vehicle year: 2002
I purchased this car with 49,000 miles and have since put 51,000 more on it. Despite being in two accidents, the car's exterior looks pretty rough. However, as a college student on a tight budget, I don't mind. I appreciate the fact that it doesn't have automatic locks, transmission, or power windows, as those features tend to malfunction over time. The car is great on gas, requires little maintenance, and has plenty of legroom, which is especially important for me as I am 6'5
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Vehicle year: 2004
I'm really impressed with the warranty offered, as well as the price - that's the main reason I chose this car. I bought it in May 2004 and have already driven about 6700 miles, averaging about 31-32 mpg. My fiancee is 6'6
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Vehicle year: 2007
I own a 2007 Spectra EX - Automatic. It is aerodynamic, sporty, and provides a comfortable ride at high speeds. The car has several pros, including 34+ HwyMPG, speed-sensitive steering, and a spacious interior. However, there are some cons to consider, such as the worst locks/keyless entry, unreliable electronics, and the lack of cruise control. Despite these drawbacks, I am confident in the overall quality and performance of my car.
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Vehicle year: 2004
I've had my Spectra for 2 years now and I'm happy to say that I haven't had to visit the mechanic for any problems. I've put about 13,000 miles on it and it's been running smoothly. The city mileage is about 22-23 which is decent, but there's always room for improvement. The transmission can be a bit rough when shifting from third to fourth gear, but overall it's been a reliable car. If you're able to find a low mileage Spectra, especially the newer models, I highly recommend it!
Are you having problems with your Kia Spectra?
Vern Toy 2025-05-07
Vehicle year: 2007
Despite having only 38,300 miles on my 2007 Kia Spectra, I experienced a wobble in my left rear tire. After six days in the shop, I was informed that the issue was not covered under warranty due to 'human error'. Despite never having had an alignment on the car, the problem was blamed on me, and Kia refused to cover the repair. The technician stated that this part 'never comes loose on its own', implying that I must have done something wrong. As a loyal Kia customer, I am disappointed with this response and expect better service. I urge Kia to reconsider their decision and make this right. Thank you for your attention to this matter.
Irwin Beer 2025-05-07
Vehicle year: 2003
I bought this car back in 2009 when it had 50,000 miles on the engine. At first, the ride was like a roller coaster on the freeway due to the bald tires. However, after purchasing new tires, the ride improved almost 100%. Over the years, I have had to replace the entire radiator and the ball joint, and the right passenger side headlight has been replaced about 5 times. Unfortunately, parts for this car are hard to come by and we usually have to purchase them online. When we do find the parts in store, they are usually more expensive than those for a Honda or Acura.
Kiel Anderson 2025-05-03
Vehicle year: 2003
We purchased the vehicle and experienced transmission issues within 3 months, despite having driven less than 100,000 miles. Although we have had to take it back to the shop 6 times since then, we remain confident in our ability to address any issues that may arise. While we are disappointed with the initial problems, we are committed to making the most of our investment and ensuring that it serves us well for the remainder of our financing period.
Jon Harris 2025-04-24
Vehicle year: 2001
This auto has great style and good looks for its class. The hatchback is marvelous for loading and carrying bigger items, and it's very roomy and comfortable. While the gas mileage could be better for a car of this size, it's not bad. Overall, I really like this auto. Although, it's worth noting that the transmission had to be replaced at about 14,000 miles, but it was all paid for, of course.
Monroe Lakin 2025-04-23
Vehicle year: 2004
Driving 60 miles each way can be a challenge, but my Spectra has been satisfactory so far. Although it doesn't have any extra power, I can maintain a steady 2900 rpm while going 70 mph on the Garden State Parkway. However, in Bloomfield and Orange, NJ, where the speed often drops to 15 mph, it can be a bit of a struggle. I have noticed one peculiar characteristic though - sometimes the car forgets how to automatically shift. This usually happens when I pass through the toll booth using EZ-pay, where I don't come to a complete stop and go from 70 to 15 to 70 mph within a mile. The car comes up to speed, but the rpms go up too, up to 4500 rpm, and then I take action. I usually pull over to the shoulder and stop the car, and restarting it seems to reprogram the car just fine.