2006 Kia Spectra problems

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2006 Kia Spectra

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Common 2006 Kia Spectra problems

Common Problems with the Kia Spectra 2006

  1. Airbag Light Turning On:
    Owners of the 2006 Kia Spectra have reported issues with the airbag light turning on. This can indicate a problem with the airbag system, potentially compromising safety. It is crucial to address this promptly to ensure the proper functioning of the airbags in case of an accident.
  2. Problems Shifting:
    Another common complaint among owners of the 2006 Kia Spectra is related to shifting issues. This can manifest as difficulties in changing gears smoothly, which can affect the overall driving experience and potentially lead to more severe transmission problems if left unattended.
  3. Sensor Mat Defect:
    The sensor mat defect reported in the 2006 Kia Spectra can impact the proper functioning of various vehicle systems. This issue can trigger warning lights, affect the accuracy of sensor readings, and potentially compromise the overall safety features of the car.
  4. Seat Belt Malfunction:
    Owners have raised concerns about seat belt malfunctions in the 2006 Kia Spectra. Malfunctioning seat belts can pose a significant safety risk in the event of a collision or sudden braking, highlighting the importance of ensuring that all safety features in the vehicle are in optimal working condition.
  5. Engine Performance Issues:
    Complaints regarding engine performance problems have been noted by owners of the 2006 Kia Spectra. Issues such as reduced power, rough idling, or poor fuel efficiency can indicate underlying engine issues that may require professional attention to prevent further damage and ensure the longevity of the vehicle.
  6. Brake Failures:
    Some owners have reported brake failures in the 2006 Kia Spectra, particularly when the car loses control. Brake malfunctions can significantly compromise the safety of the vehicle and its occupants, emphasizing the critical need for regular brake inspections and maintenance to prevent potential accidents.

These common problems reported by owners of the 2006 Kia Spectra highlight the importance of regular maintenance, prompt attention to warning signs, and addressing issues promptly to ensure the safety, reliability, and longevity of the vehicle.

2006 Kia Spectra engine

Is the 2006 Kia Spectra a good car?

Although class leaders like the Civic and Mazda3 are still a few steps ahead of the Spectra when it comes to performance and refinement, we think highly of this Kia car. If you're looking for a well-rounded economy sedan or hatchback, the 2006 Kia Spectra is definitely worth a test-drive.

Is there a recall on a 2006 Kia Spectra?

2006 Kia Spectra Recalls

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.

Are Kia Spectras reliable?

Reliability should be one of the first things you look for in a vehicle. If you drive a compact car, it's more vital than ever. A used compact vehicle might be cheap, but expensive crashes and sudden breakdowns aren't. The Kia Spectra is a generally reliable option if you pick the best years available.

How long can a Kia Spectra last?

You can expect a Kia Spectra to last at least 200,000 miles with adequate care. Drivers have reported passing a quarter million miles on the original transmission, but you'll want to bet on the lower end when deciding if a used car is worth your hard earned money.

2006 Kia Spectra car problems categorized by type of issue

After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Kia Spectra problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:

  • Air bags problems
  • Service brakes problems
  • Structure problems
  • Fuel/propulsion system problems
  • Fuel system problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 2006 Kia Spectra vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

Latest 25 complaints 2006 Kia Spectra

The NHTSA has received 118 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2006 Kia Spectra. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2006 Kia Spectra vehicles.

2023-09-29

ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2023-09-28
  • 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.
2022-10-26

LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2022-03-01
  • 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.
2022-08-01

POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2022-05-04
  • 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 .
2021-07-12

SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2021-06-30
  • VIN: KNAFE121865
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2006 Kia Spectra. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 11V256000 (Fuel System, Other). The contact stated while starting the vehicle, the brake pedal was depressed and went to the floorboard. The check engine and brake warning lights were illuminated. The dealer was made aware of the recall and failure but offered no assistance. The vehicle was not diagnosed nor repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure but offered no assistance. The failure mileage was 116,000.
2020-11-06

LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES,ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2018-08-02
  • VIN: KNAFE162365
  • Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES,ENGINE
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2006 KIA SPECTRA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE DOOR HANDLES WERE INOPERABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 25 MPH, THE VEHICLE LOSS MOTIVE POWER AND STALLED WITHOUT WARNING. THE CONTACT WAS UNABLE TO RESTART THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A CERTIFIED MECHANIC WHO STATED THAT THE ENGINE FAILED AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE DOOR HANDLES WERE REPLACED HOWEVER, THE ENGINE WAS NOT REPAIRED NOR REPLACED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURES. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 16,000. *LN*JB
2020-10-16

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2020-10-14
  • Number Of Injuries: 1
  • Crash: 1
  • Fire: 1
  • VIN: KNAFE161865
  • Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
  • Summary: AFTER A MINOR ACCIDENT WHERE THE CAR WENT IN THE DITCH OFF THE ROAD THE CAR CAUGHT FIRE AND BECAME RAPIDLY ENGULFED IN FLAMES. WHAT SHOULD HAVE BEEN A MINOR ACCIDENT TURNED INTO A NEAR FATALITY BECAUSE OF AN AGGRESSIVE FIRE. THE DRIVER HAD A MEDICAL EMERGENCY WHEN PULLING OUT OF THE DRIVEWAY. THE CAR CROSSED THE ROAD AND ENTERED THE DITCH DIRECTLY ACROSS THE DRIVEWAY ENTRANCE. THIS SHOULD HAVE BEEN A WALK AWAY ACCIDENT WITH MINOR OR NO DAMAGE TO THE CAR, BUT IT BURST INTO FLAMES. THE DRIVER WAS ABLE TO GET OUT OF THE CAR BEFORE BURNING TO DEATH AND THANKFULLY THERE WERE NO OTHER PASSENGERS. WE HAD THE CAR ONLY A FEW WEEKS AND DO NOT HAVE ANY KNOWLEDGE OF RECALLS BEING REPAIRED.
2019-12-12

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2019-12-12
  • Number Of Injuries: 2
  • Crash: 1
  • VIN: KNAFE121365
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2006 KIA SPECTRA. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 45 MPH, THE DRIVER ATTEMPTED TO MOVE THE VEHICLE INTO THE LEFT LANE; HOWEVER, ANOTHER VEHICLE WAS IN THE LANE. THE DRIVER QUICKLY STEERED THE VEHICLE BACK INTO THE RIGHT LANE; HOWEVER, THE VEHICLE SPUN OUT OF CONTROL AND TURNED OVER ON THE DRIVER'S SIDE. THE DRIVER'S AND FRONT PASSENGER AIR BAGS FAILED TO DEPLOY. THE DRIVER AND FRONT PASSENGER SUSTAINED BRUISES AND CUTS. THE PASSENGER ALSO INJURED THE LEFT HAND, WHICH REQUIRED STITCHES AND MEDICAL ATTENTION. POLICE REPORT NUMBER: 191201035 WAS FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED AND NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER AND DEALER WERE NOT CONTACTED. THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE WAS NOT DETERMINED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 162,307.
2019-07-06

UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2019-02-21
  • VIN: KNAFE121665
  • Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
  • Summary: THE TRANSMISSION KEEPS STALLING AND JOLTING THE CAR, WE CANNOT RUN THE AIR CONDITIONER AND IT ONLY RUNS WHEN IN 3RD GEAR. THERE IS DEFINITELY SOMETHING WRONG WITH THE CAR AND WE DON'T EVEN FEEL SAFE PUTTING OUR CHILDREN IN THE CAR, BECAUSE IT'S NOT SAFE, AND WE CANNOT RUN THE AIR CONDITIONER WITHOUT IT STALLING OR JOLTING AND NOT ACCELERATING PROPERLY. WE HAD THE TIMING BELT REPLACED IN SEPTEMBER 2018, WE'VE HAD MULTIPLE OIL CHANGES AND KEPT UP WITH MAINTENANCE. HOWEVER THE PROBLEMS HAVE ONLY GOTTEN WORSE, OUR CHECK ENGINE LIGHT HAS BEEN ON SINCE 02/2019 AT LEAST AND WE'VE PUT STEERING FLUID IN, BUT THE PROBLEMS KEEP GETTING WORSE. WE CAN'T RUN THE AIR CONDITIONER, OUR FUSES KEEP BLOWING AND I WOULD LIKE OUR CAR CHECKED OUT AND FIXED.
2019-03-22

STRUCTURE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2019-03-20
  • VIN: KNAFE121465
  • Components: STRUCTURE
  • Summary: WITHIN 2 MONTHS OF EACH OTHER, BOTH (LEFT AND RIGHT) REAR DOOR HANDLES BROKE UPON ATTEMPTING TO OPEN THE DOOR USING NORMAL FORCE. THE DOOR HANDLES CAME OFF THE CAR AND THE REAR DOORS CAN NOT BE OPENED FROM THE OUTSIDE
2019-03-04

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2019-03-01
  • VIN: KNAFE121365
  • Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
  • Summary: I WAS DRIVING TO WORK AND BEGAN TO HEAR A SCRAPING NOISE. WHEN I GOT TO WORK I LOOKED UNDER MY CAR AND NOTICED THAT ONE OF THE FUEL TANK STRAPS HAD RUSTED THROUGH AND SNAPPED. I LOOKED ONLINE TO ORDER A NEW ONE AND FOUND A WEBSITE SAYING THAT THERE WAS A RECALL FOR THIS EXACT ISSUE.
2019-01-23

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2019-01-19
  • VIN: KANFE121665
  • Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
  • Summary: TAKATA RECALL, THE GAS TANK ON MY 2006 SPECTRA IS LEAKING FUEL, THE CAR IS STATIONARY.
2018-11-06

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2018-09-24
  • VIN: KNAFE121065
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: THE AIR BAG LIGHT CAME ON IN MY DAUGHTERS 2006 KIA SPECTRA AT 112,000 MILES. WE ARE THE SECOND OWNER AND HAVE ONLY HAD THE CAR FOR 5 MONTHS AT THE TIME THIS OCCURRED. . I PAID $163.96 TO DIAGNOSE THE PROBLEM AT THE KIA DEALERSHIP. . I WAS TOLD THE ERROR CODE WAS B1448 OCS MAT DEFECTIVE. I WAS TOLD THE BOTTOM PORTION OF THE FRONT PASSENGER SEAT NEEDED TO BE REPLACED DUE TO THE FAULTY SENSOR AT A COST OF MORE THAN $1600. THIS IS THE SAME DEFECT FOR WHICH THE 06-08 KIA RIOS WERE RECALLED - NHTSA CAMPAIGN NO. 12V244000. THIS RECALL SHOULD BE EXTENDED TO INCLUDE THE SIMILAR MODEL YEAR KIA SPECTRAS AS THERE ARE NUMEROUS COMPLAINTS FOUND. I WROTE 7 LETTERS TO KIA CORPORATE, I SPECIFICALLY WROTE TO THEIR DIRECTORS AND THOSE IN HIGHER MANAGEMENT POSITIONS LISTED ON THEIR WEBSITE. NO ONE CARED TO RESPOND BACK. THE 1-800 NUMBER LISTED FOR CONSUMER AFFAIRS CLOSED MY CASE AND SAID THAT AFTER THE 5 YEARS 60,000 MILES THE WARRANTY IS OVER AND VOID AND SAFETY ISSUES SUCH AS AN AIR BAG THAT DOESN'T DEPLOY FALLS ON THE CUSTOMER AND IS CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITY. MY 17-YEAR-OLD DAUGHTER DRIVERS THIS CAR. WE ARE THE SECOND OWNER AND HAVE HAD IT FOR 5 MONTHS. I'VE BEEN ACTIVELY WORKING TO GET THIS SAFETY CONCERN ACKNOWLEDGED BY KIA FOR A MONTH AND A HALF. CUSTOMER SAFETY ISN'T A CONCERN FOR THEM AFTER THE WARRANTY IS UP. THIS IS FRIGHTENING. . THEY OFFERED ME $150 TO GO TOWARDS THE COST OF REPAIRS. HUGE DISAPPOINTMENT IN BOTH THE CAR AND THE COMPANY. KIA NEEDS TO MAKE RIGHT ON THEIR VEHICLES. A LIFESAVING FEATURE SUCH AS AN AIRBAG SHOULD NOT HAVE AN EXPIRATION DATE. THIS IS NOT A MATTER OF CONSUMER MAINTENANCE.
2018-03-18

POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2017-01-09
  • VIN: KNAFE121565
  • Components: POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: PROBLEM IS THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON/OFF AND ON AGAIN. FAULT CODES WERE P0700 AND P0748 AS DONE AT AUTOZONE. SOME TYPE OF FAULT WITH THE TRANSAXLE (P0700) OR FAILED TRANSAXLE CONTROL MODULE/FAILED LINEAR SOLENOID VALVE/OPEN OR SHORT CICUIT CONDITION IN THE LINEAR SOLENOID CONTROL. WHILE DRIVING THE CAR SHUTTERS HARD CAR SHIFTS FINE WHEN ENGINE IS COLD. WHEN ENGINE WARMS UP (AFTER DRIVING ABOUT 10 MILES) WHILE CRUISING IN 4TH GEAR, A LURCH IS FELT FROM THE DRIVE TRAIN AND THE TRANS DOWN SHIFTS TO 3RD GEAR. SHIFTING TO NEUTRAL AND BACK TO DRIVE DOESN'T HELP. THE TRANS STAYS IN 3RD GEAR. SHUTTING THE CAR OFF AND LET IT COOL DOWN AND IT IS BACK TO WORKING NORMAL AGAIN. THINKING ABOUT REPLACING THE SHIFT CONTROL MODULE. FIX LINK.... HTTPS://WWW.YOUTUBE.COM/WATCH?V=URUT3T8UUCW HTTP://WWW.KIA-FORUMS.COM/CERATO-2003-2008-SPECTRA5-2004/72381-2006-SPECTRA-P0750-P0765-P0755-P0760-2.HTML THIS NEEDS TO BE RECALLED ON ALL KIA SPECTRAS PLEASE ADVISE
2018-02-20

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2018-02-19
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: LIGHT STAYS ON IN THE KIA SPECTRA AIRBAG SYSTEM PASSENGER SEAT MAT IS BAD
2018-01-26

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2018-01-25
  • VIN: KNAFE161465
  • Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2006 KIA SPECTRA. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 35 MPH OVER A POTHOLE, THE VEHICLE STALLED AND WOULD NOT RESTART. THE CONTACT CALLED A FAMILY MEMBER WHO RECOMMENDED THE FUEL SHUT OFF VALVE AND THE VEHICLE STARTED AGAIN. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO THE DEALER OR AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC FOR DIAGNOSTIC TESTING. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 150,000.
2017-07-19

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2017-07-19
  • VIN: KNAFE161065
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: WE HAVE HAD NO ACCIDENTS, BUT THE MAT SENSOR IN THE PASSENGER SENSOR HAS GONE BAD CAUSING THE AIR BAG LIGHT ON THE DASH TO STAY ON. THE DEALER WAS ABLE TO DETERMINE THIS BY GETTING A B1448 CODE WHEN DIAGNOSING THE ISSUE. MANY OTHERS HAVE COMPLAINED OF THIS SAME ISSUE WITH THIS AND OTHER KIA VEHICLES. THE PART IS PROHIBITIVELY EXPENSIVE AT APPROXIMATELY $1600 FOR PARTS AND LABOR.
2017-07-11

AIR BAGS,SEATS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2016-06-29
  • VIN: KNAFE161665
  • Components: AIR BAGS,SEATS
  • Summary: AIRBAG LIGHT ON DUE TO FAULTY PASSENGER SIDE SEAT SENSOR. EXORBITANT COST TO REPLACE. CAN'T AFFORD.
2017-06-03

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2014-06-08
  • VIN: KNAFE161X65
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: AIR BAG LIGHT ILLUMINATED AND WAS TOLD BY MECHANIC THE SENSOR WAS FAULTY AND IT'S AROUND 2000$ TO FIX. WILL NOT PASS INSPECTION WITHOUT REPAIR. STARTED AROUND 60,000 MILES. THIS IS RIDICULOUS, OTHER KIA MODELS HAVE BEEN RECALLED. WHAT CAN ANYONE DO?
2017-04-18

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2017-04-11
  • Number Of Injuries: 1
  • Crash: 1
  • VIN: JTLKT324164
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2006 KIA SPECTRA. WHILE DRIVING 35 MPH, THE CONTACT'S VEHICLE WAS STRUCK ON THE PASSENGER SIDE DOOR AREA AND PASSENGER SIDE FRONT END. THE AIR BAGS FAILED TO DEPLOY. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED A LACERATION TO THE HEAD, A BRUISED LEFT SHOULDER, BRUISED RIBS, AND BLEEDING FROM THE BREAST, WHICH REQUIRED MEDICAL ATTENTION. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNKNOWN.
2016-11-16

STEERING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2016-05-15
  • Components: STEERING
  • Summary: STEERING CONTINUALLY KNOCKED AFTER MULTIPLE REPAIRS I STILL HAD A KNOCK IN MY STEERING WHEEL DURING TURNS AND GOING AND AN AUDIBLE ONE OUTSIDE ALL AXLES AND SUSPENSION WAS DEEMED FINE. I ENDED UP SELLING THE CAR SINCE IT WAS AN ANNOYANCE. THE PASSENGER SEAT AIR BAG SENSOR DID NOT WORK PROPERLY IT WOULD FLASH A LIGHT ON THE HUD FOR HOURS ONLY WHEN SOMEONE SAT IN IT. THE CAR ALSO HAD VERY LOOSE STEERING AND WAS VERY UNSAFE ON THE FREEWAY
2016-11-08

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2016-11-08
  • VIN: KNAFE121765
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2006 KIA SPECTRA. EVERY TIME THE VEHICLE WAS STARTED, THE AIR BAG WARNING INDICATOR ILLUMINATED. THE DEALER DIAGNOSED THAT THE PASSENGER SIDE OCS MAT WAS DEFECTIVE AND NEEDED REPLACEMENT. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 121,144.
2016-10-24

UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2014-10-03
  • VIN: KNAFE121565
  • Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: DEFECTIVE LOCKING SYSTEM ON DRIVER SIDE DOOR. HAD IT REPLACED/REPAIRED IN NOV OF 2014 AND AGAIN NOV OF 2015 AND THE PROBLEM HAS OCCURRED AGAIN OCTOBER OF THIS YEAR AND THE SERVICE DEPARTMENT WANTED ME TO PAY AGAIN TO FIX THE SAME PROBLEM. I SAID NO. ALREADY PAID FOR THIS REPAIR AND IT HAS BEEN A PROBLEM WITH 15 MODELS OF KIA VEHICLES FROM 2001-2004 AND MORE.
2016-09-21

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2016-01-12
  • VIN: KNAFE121565
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACTS OWNS A 2006 KIA SPECTRA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE AIR BAG INDICATOR CONTINUED TO ILLUMINATE EVEN WITHOUT A PASSENGER IN THE PASSENGER SEAT. THE DEALER COULD NOT DUPLICATE THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THERE WERE NO RECALLS AVAILABLE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 79,000.
2016-07-26

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2016-07-26
  • VIN: KNAFE122365
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: AIRBAG LIGHT ON, CAR FAILED STATE INSPECTION. CAUSED BY FAULTY SENSOR.
2016-07-14

AIR BAGS,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2014-07-15
  • VIN: KNAFE121065
  • Components: AIR BAGS,SERVICE BRAKES
  • Summary: THE AIRBAG LIGHT IN MY DAUGHTER'S 2006 KIA SPECTRA STAYS ON. THE PASSENGER/OCCUPANT SENSOR MAT IS DEFECTIVE. THIS PROBLEM FIRST APPEARED AT 61,000 MILES. THE DEALERSHIP SAYS THE REPAIR WILL COST IN EXCESS OF $2,000, SO I CANNOT AFFORD TO HAVE THIS FIXED. ALSO, THE BRAKE SWITCH IS DEFECTIVE AND ONLY WORKS INTERMITTENTLY. THIS PREVENTS THE BRAKE LIGHTS FROM ILLUMINATING.

2006 Kia Spectra recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 2006 Kia Spectra.

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.

Negative 2006 Kia Spectra car reviews

  1. Owen Beahan 2024-10-14

    This car is great for anyone who wants to blend in with the crowd and values practicality. Its fuel economy makes it an ideal choice for college students, single mothers, environmentalists, and anyone looking to save money, even if it means sacrificing style and performance.

  2. Deon Mertz 2024-10-04

    I purchased my Spectra second-hand with 20,000 miles on it, which reduced my warranty to 60,000 miles. Unfortunately, once I hit about 70,000 miles, I started experiencing several issues. The airbag light came on, the check engine light illuminated, the catalytic converter went out (costing $800 before installation), there was knocking on the front end, the motor had a bad knock, the alternator needed replacing, and the rear brake light went out once a week. Additionally, the cam shaft sensor and crank sensor needed attention. Overall, it was a frustrating experience. I would advise against purchasing a Kia, but if you do, it may be best to sell it before the warranty runs out. Kia cars may be sold cheaply, but the cost of repairs can be a significant portion of the car's value.

  3. Jalon Reinger 2024-07-17

    During a recent accident, my Kia Spectra 2006 with less than 9,000 miles collided with an oncoming vehicle at 60 miles per hour. Despite the severity of the impact, none of the airbags deployed, causing significant damage to the front end of my car. However, both the auto body shop and the Deputy on the scene confirmed that the airbags should have deployed. As a responsible parent, I purchased this car for its safety features, and I am disappointed that it did not perform as expected. I am currently working with Kia to investigate this incident. It is important to ensure that our vehicles are equipped with reliable safety features to protect ourselves and our loved ones. Thank you for your attention to this matter.

  4. Montana Murray 2024-04-27

    The car has good gas mileage and average reliability for a car of this class. The quality is average to mid-low, except in the safety department where the car is excellent.

  5. Colton Muller 2024-04-21

    You've had it for 3 weeks and it feels solidly built and planted on the road. The gas mileage is just okay, with 34 miles per gallon once and 29 miles per gallon once. However, you've only driven 1400 miles so far. Overall, you like the car. It's important to keep in mind that it's an economy car, so it may not have all the fancy gadgets that can sometimes cause trouble. If you're looking for a more upscale ride with all the bells and whistles, you may need to pay 3-4 thousand more.

Positive 2006 Kia Spectra car reviews

  1. Tate Baumbach 2024-11-15

    I was looking for a new compact station wagon when I drove by a KIA dealer and saw a red Spectra 5 on display. It was love at first sight, so I test drove it and purchased it within half an hour. The sales transaction was flawless. My Spectra 5 fits my lifestyle perfectly as I enjoy camping and driving on back roads with gusto. I have never experienced any issues with the car, even after driving it for 30,000 miles over 3 years. I still hand wash it (using the 2 bucket style) with love and care. Thank you so much, KIA!

  2. Deshaun Kovacek 2024-11-15

    Congratulations on your new Kia! It's great to hear that you're enjoying it so far and that it's saving you money on gas compared to your previous F-150. It sounds like the car will be perfect for your commuting needs and it's wonderful that you plan on passing it down to your son in the future. The fact that the powertrain will still be under warranty is definitely a plus. It's always a good idea to compare different car options, and it's great that you found the Kia to be the best choice for you in terms of both options and price.

  3. Frederik Rowe 2024-11-09

    I used to own a 98 Kia Sephia and I must say, this new Kia is absolutely amazing! I got a fantastic deal on the car, with $1500 off the MSRP thanks to owner loyalty and other bonuses. I had been considering buying it in February, but decided to wait. I looked at a few other options, such as the Corolla, the Civic, and even the new Yaris. However, the Kia had the best overall package. It boasts an outstanding warranty, great looks, plenty of room, and is really fun to drive. For those of you who are considering this car, I would advise against buying the automatic. With all small 4 cylinder cars, it tends to drain the fun-to-drive factor out of the vehicle. I couldn't be happier with my purchase, and the dealership provided outstanding service as well.

  4. Alfonso Treutel 2024-10-22

    Every time you get in and drive this car, you'll be glad you bought it. It's fun to drive, easy to park, good on gas, and you've had no troubles with it whatsoever. You're planning a longer road trip next week, and you can rest assured that you'll be taking this car with you. It's comfortable (not too big, not too small) and has plenty of cargo space for a family of three.

  5. Enrique Lowe 2024-10-04

    I really appreciate this car. When I was searching for a new car and looking to trade in my old one, Kia was the only dealership that was willing to work within my budget. I fell in love with how smoothly it drives, and I especially love how easy the cruise control is to use. The air conditioning is also fantastic - I get cold almost instantly when I turn it on!

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Additional sources

More sources of information about 2006 Kia Spectra problems:

2006 Kia Spectra Problems and Complaints - 6 Issues
2006 Kia Spectra Problems and Complaints - 6 Issues
https://repairpal.com/2006-kia-spectra/problems

Problem with your 2006 Kia Spectra? Our list of 6 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 2006 Kia Spectra.

Kia Spectra 5 2006 auto transmission | Kia Forum
Kia Spectra 5 2006 auto transmission | Kia Forum
https://www.kia-forums.com/threads/kia-spectra-5-2006-auto-transmission.139730/

Apr 25, 2014 ... One good thing is that your Spectra (2006) was classified along with the earlier Sephia/Spectras as far as reliability (at the time) and many ...

2006 Kia Spectra Problems | Kelley Blue Book
2006 Kia Spectra Problems | Kelley Blue Book
https://www.kbb.com/kia/spectra/2006/common-problems/

How reliable is the 2006 Kia Spectra? See the most common repairs performed and learn if your vehicle is at risk for major repairs in the next 12 months.

06 Spectra transmission problem | Kia Forum
06 Spectra transmission problem | Kia Forum
https://www.kia-forums.com/threads/06-spectra-transmission-problem.196281/

Jun 13, 2015 ... Because you posted P0755 and the earlier (2004.5~2006) New Spectras have shown a problem with bad internal soldering connections you might want ...

Kia Spectra 2006: Serious Issues & Transmission Problems - Q&A
Kia Spectra 2006: Serious Issues & Transmission Problems - Q&A
https://www.justanswer.com/kia/6nwyk-kia-spectra-ex-2006-kia-spectra-serious-issues.html

May 13, 2012 ... If the shift occurs while under load (accelerating) the clutches slip, causing the problems indicated. If you rev out in 2nd gear and then shift ...

Other years of Kia Spectra

kia spectra 2007 photo
Spectra 2007
Kia

162

1

26

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
kia spectra 2008 photo
Spectra 2008
Kia

136

0

27

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
kia spectra 2009 photo
Spectra 2009
Kia

114

0

18

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
kia spectra 2000 photo
Spectra 2000
Kia

23

0

11

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
kia spectra 2001 photo
Spectra 2001
Kia

40

0

18

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
kia spectra 2002 photo
Spectra 2002
Kia

96

0

21

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1

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