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: 2020
Both my husband and I are tall. The passenger and the driver are both comfortable. The car drives like a dream. The service from the dealership is outstanding.
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Vehicle year: 2023
We've been driving the 2023 Sportage for over a month now and we absolutely love it! We also test drove the Hyundai Tucson, but we ultimately decided on the Kia because of its interior design and comfort. We're really impressed with all the standard safety features too. So far, everything has been great!
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Vehicle year: 2016
The front brake of my vehicle failed after 7300 miles, and the dealership was unhelpful, asking for over $300 and a wait time of 2 and a half hours. However, my mechanic was able to fix it in just 45 minutes for $200. This experience was a complete rip off. Despite calling customer service, no one had the common courtesy to call back.
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Vehicle year: 2009
Fuel efficiency may not be the best at high speeds, and acceleration may be a bit of an issue after slowing down or driving uphill. If you're planning a long drive with family and luggage, you may prefer the V6 version. However, driving at a moderate speed on the freeway should be comfortable.
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Vehicle year: 2006
Hi there! Thank you for sharing your experience with us. I'm glad to hear that you're enjoying your new Sportage! It sounds like it has everything you need in an SUV, and the V-6 engine provides plenty of power. It's great to hear that you haven't had any problems with it and that the dealership has provided outstanding workmanship. Your wife must love driving it to work every day, and it's awesome that you've taken it on several trips with virtually no problems. The gas mileage also sounds pretty good, ranging from 19 to 21 in town and 23 to 25 on the road at speeds up to 70mph. Based on your positive experience, it sounds like you wouldn't hesitate to buy another one. Thanks again for sharing!
Brando Blanda 2025-08-16
Vehicle year: 2000
The vehicle has been very reliable mechanically, but there are some areas that could be improved. The 4 wheel drive ability seems to cause more sliding than remaining in 2 wheel drive, and the ride is quite hard and stiff. Additionally, there are some minor annoyances such as rattles and noises that are difficult to locate. In terms of appearance, the wheel rims tend to accumulate brake dust that is difficult to remove. Overall, there is room for improvement in certain areas, but the vehicle's reliability is a strong point.
Aurelio Pagac 2025-08-11
Vehicle year: 2000
I bought this car in the winter after getting my license. It wasn't taken care of that much, but I changed that. Recently, I changed the valve cover gasket since it was leaking oil into the spark plugs causing a misfire. The engine isn't powerful, but the engine driven fan ensures that the car NEVER overheats. I drive around 400 miles a week and it gets me where I need to go just fine. The spare tire carrier was a nuisance, so I removed it and just stored the spare tire in the trunk. I lost some space, but it's no big deal. I also removed the trailer hitch and roof rack to get more MPGs. It's a great SUV if you don't want to scratch your rims when parallel parking and it's perfect for some off-roading every now and then. As the vehicle ages, more noises and rattles become apparent, but I have developed connecting rod knock and have since changed just the connecting rod bearings and it still runs like a champ!
Finn Kuhic 2025-08-10
Vehicle year: 2024
Hello! I wanted to share my experience with my new 2023 Kia Sportage that I purchased in October 2022. Unfortunately, I have had a few issues with the car, including two recalls and a major issue that the service center near me has been working on for two weeks. Despite these challenges, I have been working with Kia's techs and the US Tech Line to resolve the issues. While it has been frustrating at times, I am confident that we will find a solution soon. One issue that I have been experiencing is that the buttons for the Infotainment, rear view camera, AC/heat, defoggers, and lane assist and side collision warning system will intermittently not work. The car has been to the dealership twice for this issue, and while it is still in the shop for the second visit, I am hopeful that the dealership will be able to figure out the issue soon. While I have not been able to get updates from the dealership or through the Kia Service number, I am confident that they are doing their best to resolve the issue. I would still recommend Kia as a brand, as they have a great warranty and are committed to resolving any issues that arise. Thank you for listening to my experience!
Pierre Lynch 2025-08-09
Vehicle year: 1999
Hello there! I wanted to share some advice with those of you who own a 99
Lukas Schmitt 2025-08-07
Vehicle year: 2000
The 2.0L engine with 5-speed is a reliable choice for getting on the interstate. To achieve the best results, it is recommended to keep it in 2nd and 3rd gear up to 5500 rpm. Although it can get a bit busy at 70mph/3200 rpm, it runs smoothly all day long. With air conditioning on, it gets an average of 25-26 mpg, and sometimes even 27 mpg. It runs and drives well even with a full load of 800#. The warranty service is exceptional, and there have been no major issues out of warranty except for the vacuum lines for 4WD hubs, which is a cheap and easy fix. Regular maintenance is all that is required. While it may not be the best car for the interstate, it is excellent for 55 mph rural highways and can even climb a goat trail in 4WD. The suspension and brakes are top-notch, so it deserves good quality tires. I personally recommend Michelin Harmony passenger car tires, which perform well in both rain and snow. The AC works fine, but due to all the glass, it can get hot quickly and takes a while to cool down.