Kia Sportage problems
The Kia Sportage (Korean: 기아 스포티지) is a series of automobiles manufactured by the South Korean manufacturer Kia since 1993 through five generations. Initially a compact SUV built on a body-on-frame chassis, the second-generation Sportage transitioned to a car-based platform which placed it into the compact crossover SUV class, and has been developed alongside the Hyundai Tucson. Since the fifth-generation model launched in 2021, Kia developed the Sportage in two sizes with different wheelbase lengths for different markets.
The Sportage has been the best-selling Kia model globally since 2016 after surpassing the Rio. In 2018, the model reached the 5 million production milestone. As of 2023, the Sportage is positioned between the Seltos or Niro and the three-row Sorento in Kia's SUV global lineup.
In 2022, the Sportage won the 'Family SUV' and 'Full Hybrid' categories in the Scottish Car of the Year Awards. In 2023, the Sportage was chosen as Car of the Year in Morocco.
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Kia Sportage model years
Common Kia Sportage problems
Based on the complaints from owners of the Kia Sportage, several common problems have been reported:
- Engine Problems:
- Description: Engine issues are a significant concern with the Kia Sportage, including problems like repeated stalling, misfires, and engine failure. Some of these issues are linked to excessive engine oil consumption, especially affecting four-cylinder engines. The addition of a turbocharger in certain models has also caused premature engine problems.
- Cost of Repair: The average cost to fix engine problems in the Kia Sportage varies depending on the specific issue but can be substantial, ranging from around $3,500 to $5,600.
- Preventive Measures: Regular maintenance and addressing issues promptly can help prevent severe engine problems.
- Transmission Problems:
- Description: Transmission issues in the Kia Sportage include rough shifting, slipping, and even gearbox failure. These problems are often attributed to a faulty torque converter, leading to expensive repairs.
- Cost of Repair: The average cost for diagnosing transmission problems in the Kia Sportage is around $90.87.
- Preventive Measures: Ensuring proper transmission maintenance and addressing any signs of trouble promptly can help prevent major transmission failures.
- Electrical Problems:
- Description: Owners have reported electrical issues such as faulty batteries, alternators, radio malfunctions, sensor problems, flickering lights, and stalling engines. These problems can be disruptive and affect various vehicle functions.
- Cost of Repair: The average cost for diagnosing electrical problems in the Kia Sportage is approximately $48.31.
- Preventive Measures: Regularly checking the electrical system during maintenance can help identify and address potential issues early.
- Suspension Problems:
- Description: Suspension problems in the Kia Sportage can lead to issues like bumpy rides, loss of vehicle handling, and control due to worn or broken suspension components.
- Cost of Repair: Repairing suspension issues can vary in cost depending on the specific problem but is essential for safety and vehicle performance.
- Preventive Measures: Regular inspections and maintenance of the suspension system can help prevent major failures and ensure a smoother driving experience.
These common problems with the Kia Sportage highlight the importance of regular maintenance, prompt repairs, and awareness of potential issues to ensure the longevity and reliability of the vehicle.
What is the main problem with Kia Sportage?
System and backup camera malfunctioning. Or failing altogether. These issues could be due to a variety of factors. Such as faulty wiring a dead battery or a blown fuse.
Is a Kia Sportage a reliable vehicle?
Plus, for adventure-seeking drivers, there are new off-road models with the rugged X-Pro and X-Pro Prestige trims. The 2023 Kia Sportage is a compact SUV with excellent reliability. It tops all other compact SUVs on the J.D. Power most reliable list, including the 2023 Toyota RAV4 and the 2023 Honda CR-V.
What are the negatives of the Kia Sportage?
Highs Plenty of space, smooth ride, solid offering of standard features. Lows A bore to drive, 187-hp four-cylinder makes for slow acceleration, design might be too weird for some. Verdict The Sportage offers tempting features, but its lackluster powertrain is a little too relaxed versus its competitors.
Is a Kia Sportage expensive to maintain?
A KIA Sportage will cost about $7,873 for maintenance and repairs during its first 10 years of service. This beats the industry average for popular SUV models by $1,260. There is also a 23.71% chance that a Sportage will require a major repair during that time.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Kia Sportage years
We have researched Kia problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Kia Sportage cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Kia Sportage model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Kia Sportage model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Kia Sportage years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Kia Sportage car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Kia Sportage , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Engine problems
- Service brakes problems
- Electrical system problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Hydraulic problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Kia Sportage vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Sportage model years
A total of 287 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 Sportage model years
There were a total of 177 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 Sportage model years
There were a total of 238 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 Sportage model years
There were a total of 3 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 4391 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Kia Sportage . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Kia Sportage vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Kia Sportage 2023
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-07
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-27
- VIN: 5XYK6CAF5PG
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: Dear NHTSA Defects and Recall Team, My name is [XXX] , and I am writing this email along with my wife, [XXX] , to report a serious safety issue with our 2023 Kia Sportage. I am writing to bring a serious, ongoing vehicle safety issue involving a Kia Sportage to your attention. My family and I are facing repeated, hazardous malfunctions with our vehicle that have led us to fear for our lives, as well as the safety of others on the road. Since mid-September, our 2023 Kia Sportage has experienced sudden, unanticipated shut-offs both while parked and, most dangerously, while driving. During these incidents, the brake pedal becomes completely unresponsive, hazard lights fail to activate, and the vehicle is left stranded and inoperable. Most recently, while driving in traffic, the car shut off without warning, leaving us in an extremely vulnerable position. These repeated failures could lead to a catastrophic accident, especially considering we often travel with our [XXX] child in the vehicle. Despite notifying Kia and seeking assistance from their customer service team, the issue remains unresolved, and their response has been unacceptably slow. Given the severity of these malfunctions and their direct impact on public safety, we respectfully request your support in addressing this matter. We believe Kia has a responsibility to ensure the safety of its vehicles and to take immediate action when serious safety risks arise. We request that the NHTSA investigate the issue and consider any necessary recalls or further action to ensure public safety. We would appreciate any guidance or assistance your office could provide in helping us resolve this life-threatening issue. Sincerely, [XXX] and [XXX] [XXX] | [XXX] Kia Sportage X Line AWD [XXX] Purchased date: [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Kia Sportage 2023
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-16
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-24
- VIN: KNDPXCAG6P7
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE
- Summary: I was driving east from Austin, Tx on [XXX], and as I approached a major intersection in Elgin, Tx., a warning light appeared on my dashboard that said "hybrid system failure: pull over safely". I was able to pull over into the left turn lane and then was barely able to make it over a curb and onto a highway median strip, before my car engine stopped and all dashboard lights went out. This happened in about 30 seconds. My two year old car with fewer than 30,000 miles on it went completely dead. It would not start even after several attempts. I called Kia roadside assistance, and was told I needed to have the car towed to a dealership. The tow truck driver backed the car into the space they indicated at the dealership, and it started to roll forward as it was apparently in neutral. He had to borrow a board to put under the back wheels. Days later I was told to come get the car, as it had been repaired. When I got there, it was in the same space with the board still under the wheels. I was told it just had needed a software update. (SA553A). I was never notified that my vehicle needed this update, and would just stop wherever: i.e. on a hwy with no shoulders, at night, etc. and that I would be unable to brake the car, or drive it, or put on emergency warning lights after 30 seconds. This was unbelievably unsafe. I am [XXX]. What if I were a family with children on board and it happened on a highway at night??? INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Kia Sportage 2020
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-09
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-24
- VIN: KNDP63AC0L7
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: I purchased a 2020 Sportage in 2022 from St.Cloud Honda in St. Cloud, MN. Recently my engine locked up after no oil. I was over in mileage, but had an oil change in April. I would receive warning lights for tire pressures but never received an indication that my oil was low until my engine seized. I don't understand why a critical component for the car, the oil, would not issue an indication that it was low until it was empty (too late). During my recent problem, my oil light came on as did the battery light, but the car stalled at that moment. During my last oil change in April, I let the advisor know that my engine light was on (not oil nor battery). The mechanic said it was from a previous repair, but there wasn't anything detected. They had the light turned off and then as soon as I left the dealership it turned back on. When I called back to let them know, they said it wasn't anything. That was a relief because I didn't want anything to be wrong with my engine. My vehicle is currently at Cornerstone Kia in Elk River, MN should you have anything to discuss with the advisors.
Kia Sportage 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-10
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-17
- VIN: KNDPMCAC4K7
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: The vehicle just suddenly stopped without any warning or anything. No warning lights came on until after the engine had almost completely stopped in the middle of the road. Vehicle is also using oil without any warning light coming on at all and vehicle is out of oil. That is a problem with both things. Suddenly stopping can cause me to be in an accident. This is not safe at all and should be the manufacturer responsible to repair this issue.
Kia Sportage 2024
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-15
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-16
- VIN: 5XYK7CDF3RG
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
- Summary: Stopped at traffic light, light turned green and went to accelerate. Car died, all lights came on dash in oncoming traffic and car would not restart for minutes.
Kia Sportage 2024
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-11
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-15
- Crash: 1
- VIN: KNDPYDDH6R7
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: On Oct. 11, 2024, I was pulling into a parking spot when my vehicle suddenly accelerated. My foot was not on the accelerator. I braked but not in time to stop the car before it hit the side of a building. I was not injured, but do not want to use drive the vehicle until I understand what happened and whether this sudden unintended acceleration defect can be fixed.
Kia Sportage 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-02
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-15
- VIN: KNDPCCAC5F7
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: Hood latch seccondary safety latch did not catch hood and hood flew up causing inability to see and luckily only damage the car itself. This is a dangerous problem with Kia and should be investigated for the safety catch becoming corroded and sticky. Its design is defective and it should be recalled and reworked so that it can not become corroded and sieze preventing safe operation in the event the primary latch comes unclipped while driving down the road at speed if a person were to accidentally pull the hood release in motion or it it were so fail to hold adequately.
Kia Sportage 2011
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-28
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-14
- VIN: KNDPB3A21B7
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: KIA issue a recall for my vehicle. Visited the dealership as instructed and the replacement part was not available. After a month and a half, they still don't know when they will receive the part. Driving a car with a safety recall (fire possible) is not ideal.
Kia Sportage 2024
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-11
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-11
- Crash: 1
- VIN: KNDPYDDH6R7
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: I am reporting an incident of sudden unintended acceleration of my 2024 Kia Sportage plug-in Hybrid. On Oct. 11, 2024, my wife was parking the vehicle in a lot near our home when the car suddenly accelerated, only stopping when it crashed into the side of a building. My wife was not injured, though the vehicle was damaged. She insists she did not accidentally hit the accelerator instead of the brake. I have reported the incident to Kia, and we have filed a claim with our insurance company.
Kia Sportage 2023
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-08
- VIN: KNDPYDAHXP7
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: I have experienced a dangerous bug where cruise control shoots immediately to 110mph. I have experienced three incidents in the last 15 months. Too busy trying to disengage the accelerating vehicle to get a video, but many others have documented this bug: [XXX] [XXX] [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Kia Sportage 2024
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-14
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-07
- VIN: 5XYK5CDF2RG
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2024 Kia Sportage. The contact stated while driving 25 MPH, the check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was able to restart on the third attempt; however, the failure recurred. The vehicle was driven to the dealer but was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and a case was opened. The failure mileage was 17,000.
Kia Sportage 2018
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-23
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-04
- VIN: KNDPM3AC3J7
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Connecting rod bearing failure on 2018 Kia Sportage two months after having been to the Kia dealership for a knock sensor software update. (sensor update completed on 7/26/24 at Palm Springs Kia, RO# 6160694/1, engine failure occurred 9/23/24.) Upon doing research, I discovered that connecting rod bearing failure has been a recurrent issue over the years with Kia engines. I believe that my engine is also victim to this defect.
Kia Sportage 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2018-09-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-01
- VIN: KNDPM3ACXH7
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE
- Summary: Engine has slowed itself for years, even while pressing gas pedal, the mph and engine would sound like it revved up then go dark on me while coming to an uncontrolled stop.
Kia Sportage 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-03
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-30
- Fire: 1
- VIN: KNDPN3ACXK7
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
- Summary: The contact owned a 2019 Kia Sportage. The contact stated while driving 40 MPH, the vehicle started overheating and smoke started emitting smoke from the hood. No warning lights were illuminated. No injuries were reported. The vehicle was destroyed leaving only the framing. The fire department arrived on the scene and extinguished the fire. A fire department report was filed. A police report was not filed. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and the vehicle was inspected; however, the inspector did not find a defect in the vehicle. The vehicle was also inspected by the fire department who determined that the cause was in the rear passenger window. The failure mileage was unknown.
Kia Sportage 2024
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-29
- VIN: 5XYK3CDF6RG
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: Front brake rotors are warped on new 2024 KIA Sportage with only 4000 miles on the vehicle. The vehicle is available for inspection anytime When braking the steering wheel will pulsate left to right The problem has been confirmed by the dealer as an ongoing problem with this vehicle brand and model. The vehicle is scheduled for repair on October 15, 2024 I have been advised that the front brake rotors will be re-surfaced and not replaced. I have also been advised that KIA will NOT perform a second repair
Latest 5 recalls Kia Sportage
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 84 recalls for different components of the Kia Sportage.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Kia Sportage 2024
- Report Received Date: 2024-06-07
- Manufacturer: Kia America, Inc.
- Components: STEERING:ELECTRIC POWER ASSIST SYSTEM
- Summary: Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2024 Kia Sportage vehicles. The circuit board in the motor-driven power steering assembly may short circuit, resulting in a loss of power steering assist.
- Consequence: A loss of power steering assist can increase the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the motor-driven power steering electric power pack, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 19, 2024. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC319.
- Model: Kia Sportage 2023
- Report Received Date: 2024-01-18
- Manufacturer: Kia America, Inc.
- Components: STRUCTURE:BODY:ROOF AND PILLARS
- Summary: Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2023-2024 Sportage and 2022-2024 Carnival vehicles. The roof molding may loosen and detach.
- Consequence: A detached roof molding can create a road hazard for other vehicles, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will inspect the roof molding and replace or secure it as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 15, 2024. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC292.
- Model: Kia Sportage 2024
- Report Received Date: 2024-01-18
- Manufacturer: Kia America, Inc.
- Components: STRUCTURE:BODY:ROOF AND PILLARS
- Summary: Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2023-2024 Sportage and 2022-2024 Carnival vehicles. The roof molding may loosen and detach.
- Consequence: A detached roof molding can create a road hazard for other vehicles, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will inspect the roof molding and replace or secure it as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 15, 2024. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC292.
- Model: Kia Sportage 2012
- Report Received Date: 2023-09-25
- Manufacturer: Kia America, Inc.
- Park Out Side: 1
- Park Out Side: 1
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP:CONTROL UNIT/MODULE
- Summary: Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2010-2019 Borrego, 2014-2016 Cadenza, 2010-2013 Forte, Forte Koup, Sportage, 2015-2018 K900, 2011-2015 Optima, 2011-2013 Optima Hybrid, Soul, 2012-2017 Rio, 2011-2014 Sorento, and 2010-2011 Rondo vehicles. The Hydraulic Electronic Control Unit (HECU) may experience an electrical short, which can result in an engine compartment fire while parked or driving.
- Consequence: An engine compartment fire while parked or driving can increase the risk of injury.
- Remedy: Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures until the recall repair is complete. Dealers will replace the HECU fuse, free of charge. Interim notification letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed November 14, 2023. Owner notification letters were mailed March 29, 2024 through June 18, 2024. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC284.
- Model: Kia Sportage 2010
- Report Received Date: 2023-09-25
- Manufacturer: Kia America, Inc.
- Park Out Side: 1
- Park Out Side: 1
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP:CONTROL UNIT/MODULE
- Summary: Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2010-2019 Borrego, 2014-2016 Cadenza, 2010-2013 Forte, Forte Koup, Sportage, 2015-2018 K900, 2011-2015 Optima, 2011-2013 Optima Hybrid, Soul, 2012-2017 Rio, 2011-2014 Sorento, and 2010-2011 Rondo vehicles. The Hydraulic Electronic Control Unit (HECU) may experience an electrical short, which can result in an engine compartment fire while parked or driving.
- Consequence: An engine compartment fire while parked or driving can increase the risk of injury.
- Remedy: Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures until the recall repair is complete. Dealers will replace the HECU fuse, free of charge. Interim notification letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed November 14, 2023. Owner notification letters were mailed March 29, 2024 through June 18, 2024. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC284.
Latest negative Kia Sportage car reviews
Latest positive Kia Sportage car reviews
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Vehicle year: 1996
This is a fantastic car for anyone looking to upgrade to an SUV without breaking the bank on fuel economy or expenses. It's a comfortable and dependable vehicle that requires nothing but gas and regular maintenance (oil changes, tire rotation, belts, hoses, and filters).
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Vehicle year: 2009
I purchased this car in early March with 14,000 miles on the clock and have since put 6,000 miles on it in 3 months. Despite driving at 75 mph over hilly WV terrain, I have been averaging 21 mpg with an 80/20 highway city split. My dealership experience was very pleasant. The only flaw I have encountered is that the USB adapter seems to have stopped working, but overall, this car is an excellent choice.
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Vehicle year: 2016
The price I paid for my Kia was overpriced due to the significant drop in trade-in value within the first year of purchase. Despite this, the vehicle handles great, performs well in the snow, and achieves the expected gas mileage. While blind spots and road noise can be bothersome, the vehicle has proven to be reliable and safe. During a recent tire replacement and alignment, the auto repair shop informed me that the front caster on the passenger side could not be adjusted due to manufacturer limitations. Overall, I am confident in the quality and performance of my Kia.
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Vehicle year: 2008
Hi there! Thank you for sharing your experience with us. Back in 2005, you traded a Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo V8 for a 2WD Sportage. It's great to hear that you already owned a Kia Sedona minivan and were not put off by Kia's less than stellar mileage. You mentioned that you use it to carry a load of sailboard equipment on the roof and it drives well under that load. That's awesome! It's good to know that this SUV is reliable and very safe. Even though it has been in three crashes, it's built like a tank and appears to be very repairable. You also mentioned that you haven't had a single issue with either car except Hankook tires, which are just serviceable. I recommend an upgrade to a good truck tire. By the way, we also have a Honda CR-V. Thanks again for sharing your experience with us!
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Vehicle year: 2012
I purchased this vehicle on 10/18/11 for my wife as we were expecting and wanted a safer SUV than her previous compact car. The features and price are great! Despite the stiff ride, the pickup is impressive for a 4cyl engine. While we did experience some issues with the brake light switch, which required replacement as the vehicle wasn't shifting out of park every time, I believe this to be a common problem. Additionally, the transmission jerks at random times, but I believe this to be an isolated incident. Overall, I rate the vehicle 4.5 stars as the issues we experienced were isolated and not indicative of problems experienced by other Sportage owners.
Are you having problems with your Kia Sportage?
Brady Haag 2025-08-02
Vehicle year: 2024
I had gotten my 2023 Kia sportage 9/22. I don’t even have 6,000 miles on it and it seems like it lags when driving. I also tried to use my A/C this summer and it doesn’t even get cold. The air stays hot. It’s been at the dealership for the air conditioning for 2 weeks now and still waiting for Kia to figure out what’s wrong with it. The manufacturer was contacted twice already for solutions and the problem isn’t resolved.
Clinton Yost 2025-07-29
Vehicle year: 1998
This car is extremely unsafe and unreliable. It has a history of rusted out back end, 4WD failure, and multiple issues with door handles, fuel tank, fuel pump, spark plugs, battery, wipers, front brakes, coil wire, starter, washer nozzles, and more. I strongly advise against purchasing this car.
Arden Tromp 2025-07-28
Vehicle year: 1999
Despite being an older car, it's still a lot of fun to drive. However, I've had to pay too much for repairs. The check engine light has been on numerous times, but unfortunately, it has never been diagnosed. While it accelerates slowly and sometimes has transmission problems (which I forgive due to its age), both the driver and passenger seatbelts have broken. Additionally, I had to replace the soft top, and the CD player has never worked correctly. It's a bit of a challenge to fit people in the back seat and to put stuff in the back since the window is attached to the door. Nevertheless, I've had a lot of fun driving it, and people still tell me how 'cute' it is. Plus, it gets 21 mpg for mixed highway and city driving.
Ted Waters 2025-07-26
Vehicle year: 2010
Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I wanted to share my experience with my 2009 Sportage that I bought in December. Overall, I've been enjoying it, but I did run into a few issues. Unfortunately, the passenger door lock froze almost immediately after I bought it, but I was able to get it repaired. Additionally, I've noticed that the interior light sunglass holder is starting to break up - both plastic light buttons have come off and bits have broken off, and the latch for the sunglasses has broken off as well. It looks like it will cost around $165 just for the part. I don't think I'm excessively hard on cars; I just let go of a 2003 Hyundai Santa Fe with 235K miles that I'd bought new and never had these issues. Despite these problems, I'm still hopeful that my Sportage will continue to serve me well. Thanks for listening!
Fabian Little 2025-07-25
Vehicle year: 1997
I have a 96 Kia Sportage and although it's generally reliable, it can be frustrating when it breaks down. Unfortunately, there is no shop manual available for the do-it-yourself mechanic, as KIA prefers that you bring your car to them. Currently, I am having to replace the water pump, timing, and work on lifters without a shop manual. I am hoping to find all the timing and torque specs I need. In the future, I hope that Kia will allow for a shop manual and more aftermarket parts for the do-it-yourself mechanic. With any luck, I'll be able to achieve better fuel mileage once I'm done.