2012 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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Common 2012 Kia Sportage problems
Based on complaints from owners of the Kia Sportage 2012, several common problems have been reported:
- Engine Failures: Some Kia Sportage 2012 models experienced engine failures due to faulty engine bearings or a leaking oil sump. The leaking oil sump allowed excessive oil escape, leading to oil starvation and engine destruction. Kia addressed this by fitting an oil-pressure warning light with a more proactive trigger-point.
- Transmission Issues: Owners reported transmission problems, including slipping gears and rough shifting. These issues were likely caused by a faulty torque converter or transmission fluid leak. If left unrepaired, a transmission fluid leak can lead to severe damage and even complete transmission failure.
- Suspension Wear: The Kia Sportage 2012's suspension is prone to wear and tear, especially on vehicles used on rough or poorly maintained roads. Symptoms of suspension wear include clunking noises, rough handling, and uneven tire wear.
- Rust: The Kia Sportage 2012 is susceptible to rust, particularly in areas exposed to salt on winter roads. Rust can develop around the wheel arches, sills, and floor pan, posing a costly issue to repair.
- Electrical System: The Kia Sportage 2012 has a complex electrical system that can be prone to faults, especially in older models. Common electrical issues include problems with central locking, windows, and dashboard displays.
- Steering and Shock Absorbers: By 100,000 kilometers, steering rack and shock absorbers may develop issues like knocking. Front lever silent blocks and ball bearings are components that may wear out over time.
- Turbo Diesel Engine Concerns: Turbo diesel engines in the Kia Sportage 2012 are known to have standard problems related to heating and cooling. Diesel engines are demanding in terms of heating, and issues can arise if the engine is turned off with a hot turbine.
- Other Minor Issues: Owners have reported problems with the ignition system, emission control system malfunctions, oxygen sensors, catalysts, air conditioning, heated seats, USB connectors, parking sensors, and ABS failures.
These problems highlight the importance of regular maintenance and thorough inspections to address potential issues promptly and ensure the longevity of the Kia Sportage 2012.
What problems did the 2012 Kia Sportage have?
The Kia Sportage sold in the US certainly did have its share of problems. In some cases, the engine failures were traced to a faulty batch of engine bearings, in others, a leaking oil sump was blamed for allowing too much oil to escape, leading to oil starvation which destroyed the whole engine.
Is Kia Sportage 2012 reliable?
Overall, though, Kia has a good reputation for reliability. In our most recent survey, the Sportage finished in sixth place in the small SUV class with an excellent score of 88%.
What is the most common problem with the Kia Sportage?
System problems another common issue reported by 2023 Kia Sportage owners is with the electrical. System some owners have reported problems with the radio navigation. System and backup camera
Is there a recall on 2012 Kia Sportage?
Summary: Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2011-2012 Kia Sportage vehicles. The engine oil pan may leak and, if not addressed, the loss of oil may result in engine damage. Tip: Recalls don't affect every vehicle of the same year, make and model.
2012 Kia Sportage car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Kia Sportage problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Engine problems
- Electrical system problems
- Unknown or other problems
- Power train problems
- Service brakes problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2012 Kia Sportage vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2012 Kia Sportage
The NHTSA has received 382 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2012 Kia Sportage. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2012 Kia Sportage vehicles.
2024-08-28
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-28
- VIN: KNDPB3A22C7
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Purchased a used 2012 Kia Sportage in Nov 2023 took in for an anti theft update in that same month. My update was done at a Kia dealership . They informed me about the anti theft update.Now ffw to Aug 2024 I get a check engine light for knock sensor. I have no idea what this is. Took it back to dealership I was told that the KSDS update was done the same time the anti theft was done and the warranty had expired. How was I supposed to know what the knock sensor update was or the details of a warranty when the dealership did tell me they even done the update. Now I am sitting with a car that needs a new engine because they failed too inform me of the sensor I will be getting an attorney
2024-08-07
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-17
- VIN: KNDPB3A22C7
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: See attached document for complaint
2024-05-28
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-05-28
- VIN: KNDPB3A27C7
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: It's been eight months without a remedy? I live in an apartment under Section 8. I'm disabled (profound deafness in both ears). I'd like to ask for help to remedy this situation because my paranoia isn't helping. Will my Kia vehicle burst in fire? Why isn't there a replacement for the HECU? Can I get another Kia vehicle to replace the one I have without breaking the bank? I'm on disability benefits and I don't have the funds to get another vehicle right now. For reference (see below) Summary KIA AMERICA, INC. HAS DECIDED THAT A DEFECT WHICH RELATES TO MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY EXISTS IN CERTAIN 2011-2013 MY SPORTAGE VEHICLES. THE HYDRAULIC ELECTRONIC CONTROL UNIT (HECU) MAY EXPERIENCE AN ELECTRICAL SHORT CIRCUIT, WHICH CAN RESULT IN AN ENGINE COMPARTMENT FIRE WHILE DRIVING OR PARKED. Safety Risk AN ENGINE COMPARTMENT FIRE WHILE PARKED OR DRIVING CAN INCREASE THE RISK OF INJURY. OWNERS ARE ADVISED TO PARK THEIR VEHICLES OUTDOORS AND AWAY FROM OTHER VEHICLES OR STRUCTURES UNTIL THEY CAN HAVE THIS RECALL PERFORMED. Remedy WHEN THE REMEDY PART IS AVAILABLE, KIA DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE HECU FUSE. THIS RECALL WILL BE PERFORMED FREE OF CHARGE AT NO COST TO THE CUSTOMER. THE ESTIMATED TIME REQUIRED TO PERFORM THIS RECALL WILL BE APPROXIMATELY ONE (1) TO TWO (2) HOURS. (REFER TO SC284) " Manufacturer's Notes "SC284SL
2024-05-12
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-09-25
- VIN: KNDPC3A6XC7
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Since Sep. 25, 2023 we received a recall notice advising to park our KIA vehicle outside and away from our home, other vehicles and buildings due to a serious fire hazard from the Hydraulic Electronic Control Unit short circuiting. We have ALWAYS parked our vehicle in our garage to deter theft and break-ins, stealing catalytic converters, hail damage, any other damage. This is our primary vehicle and the recall states that the fire can occur when the vehicle is in use, as well as when just parked. If it gets damaged due to continually having to park it outside who is responsible for the repairs? It has been 8 months since we received this recall and no remedy has been offered. I spoke with KIA dealership and they had no suggestions, yet the recall states that the HECU fuse needs to be replaced. How can we get a resolve to this dangerous issue?
2024-05-11
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-11-15
- VIN: KNDPB3A24C7
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: I am writing about a recall notice that was issued last fall (2023) and has not yet been repaired by KIA, this vehicle's manufacturer. The HECU unit has a bad fuse that can cause a fire while driving or when parked. The relevant data is: Manufacturer Recall NumberSC284SL NHTSA Recall Number23V652 Recall StatusRecall Incomplete, remedy not yet available This waiting period has been excessive. KIA needs to get this done!
2024-05-06
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-05-06
- VIN: KNDPC3A25C7
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Recall was issued 09/23 for a possible engine fire and the replacement parts for repair have yet to be provided as of 5/24.
2024-04-30
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-04-30
- VIN: KNDPCCA27C7
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: I have a recall for a Hydraulic electronic control module. However, Kia dealership told me there’s no remedy for this recall
2024-04-24
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-09-25
- VIN: KNDPC3A61C7
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: The contact owns a 2012 Kia Sportage. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V652000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
2024-04-22
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-03-10
- VIN: KNDPB3A23C7
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: See attached letter
2024-04-16
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-04-16
- VIN: KNDPBCA26C7
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: I was not aware of the HECU problem and did not receive a letter in Nov-23 or Mar-24 about the serious hydraulic electronic control unit that is starting fires with some Kia Sportage 2012 cars and others. The problem is listed as recognized in 09/2023 and it is now 7 months after this point. I called Kia Quirk in Braintree, MA and they were unable to provide me with the HECU fuse replacement unit for the ABS system. The NHTSA.gov website recommends that owners of vehicles included within the recall to not drive their vehicles and do not park near structures and/or other cars. But Kia Dealerships do not have the product to fix the problem that is cited as urgent. Please notify me as to what is the best remedy and more so, the dealership since you are unable to find 'the perfect solution,' is there a safe and tested solution that may be used instead to protect owners of vehicles. Thank you. [XXX] [XXX] , [XXX] , 04162024 [XXX] USA INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
2024-03-08
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-11-14
- VIN: KNDPCCA24C7
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: The contact owns a 2012 Kia Sportage. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V652000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
2024-02-15
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-02-09
- VIN: KNDPB3A25C7
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: The contact owns a 2012 Kia Sportage. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V652000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The contact stated while driving the vehicle there was an abnormal ticking sound coming from the engine. The vehicle was taken to a local mechanic who informed the contact that the vehicle was under recall and referred the contact to the dealer. The dealer was contacted and stated that a diagnostic test could not be performed until March 2024. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 63,000. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
2024-02-15
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-09-25
- VIN: KNDPB3A21C7
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: The contact owns a 2012 Kia Sportage. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V652000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The dealer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
2024-02-02
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-11-14
- VIN: KNDPC3A29C7
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: The contact owns a 2012 Kia Sportage. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V652000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
2024-01-31
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-01-01
- VIN: KNDPC3A20C7
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2012 Kia Sportage. The contact stated that while his wife was driving 60–65 MPH, the engine seized. The contact stated that there was no oil entering the engine. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the residence. The contact called the local dealer, but the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic, who replaced the engine. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 100,000.
2024-01-12
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-01-12
- VIN: KNDPC3A23C7
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2012 Kia Sportage. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, there was an abnormal knocking sound coming from the engine compartment and the vehicle lost motive power. The contact was able to pull to the shoulder of the roadway, where the vehicle failed to restart. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the dealer to be diagnosed. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. After investigating the failure, the contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 17V224000 (Engine and Engine Cooling) however, the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 221,000.
2024-01-12
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-01-12
- VIN: KNDPBCA23C7
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: The contact owns a 2012 Kia Sportage. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V652000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The dealer was made aware of the issue. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
2023-12-14
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-11-01
- VIN: KNDPCCA6XC7
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: I was driving on the freeway when the vehicle wanted to stall and shut off. I was able to get it to the side of the highway and had it towed back home where my son checked the vehicle and said that there was no compression in the motor and to not drive it anymore until it is fixed.
2023-12-07
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-05-30
- VIN: KNDPB3A22C7
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2012 Kia Sportage. The contact stated while driving an undisclosed speed, the vehicle stalled. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The contact was able to pull to the side of the road. The contact stated that he was able to restart the vehicle and continued driving; however, the failure reoccurred while driving. The vehicle was taken to a local Pep Boys, where it was diagnosed that the speed sensor had failed. The vehicle was then taken to an independent mechanic, where the speed sensor was replaced; however, the failure persisted. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, where it was diagnosed that the engine needed to be replaced. The dealer determined that the contact qualified for a free engine replacement; however, the part was not available. The contact stated that the vehicle remained at the dealer for 6 months. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of failure. The failure mileage was approximately 140,000.
2023-12-03
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-06-26
- VIN: KNDPBCA2XC7
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: On June 26th 2023 my Malfunction Indicator Lamp engine light came on. I went to Goodyear and they had to entirely replace a main component of my engine which cost me over $1400. Earlier in June I received a letter in the mail about a Kia settlement stating that I could report a claim of engine failure and be fully compensated; however, they denied me compensation. Meanwhile, I just received another letter in the mail from Kia regarding a safety recall stating that once the remedy part is available I can get it replaced at no charge, yet I paid for this part back in July.
2023-11-29
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-11-14
- VIN: KNDPCCA6XC7
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: The contact owns a 2012 Kia Sportage. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V652000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
2023-07-28
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-07-03
- VIN: KNDPB3A29C7
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: As I approached a red light, releasing the gas and engaging the brakes, the car shut off. It never cranked again. I had to flag down a passing police officer and workers from a nearby auto shop pushed my car from the redlight and through the intersection. The car was taken to Playground Auto Services, a local repair shop, and I was told that the "motor was bad" and the repairs are estimated at $8200. There were no indications of a problem prior to the engine turning off. There were no warning lights, no performance issues, or anything else that would have warned me that my vehicle was not functioning properly. This happened on July 3rd, 2023. I purchased the vehicle used in December 2022 and took it to Auto Zone early in 2023 to run a diagnostic check after the check engine light came on while getting gas. The diagnostic indicated that the O2 sensor was alerting to a fuel issue. They recommended adding a fuel treatment additive. I did and the check engine light went away and NEVER came back on. There were 0 performance issues even with that light coming on that would indicate that my vehicle would stop working while I was approaching a red light at a busy intersection. Thank goodness the light was actually red. Had it been green and my vehicle just stopped, I could have caused a serious accident harming myself or anyone else, if not worse.
2023-07-01
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-06-24
- VIN: KNDPB3A27C7
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Just purchased KIA Sportage used and was informed they run for hundreds of thousands of miles. Less than three months later the engine blows up due an engine defect according to the dealer. The dealer wrote, "This letter is in reference to a repair that was done on a 2012 KIA Sportage Vin Number [XXX]. The Customer referenced is [XXX]. We sold the vehicle to him in ApriI of2019. On June 24, 2019 the vehicle was brought in for a noise in the engine. Not having proper diagnostic tooIs to identify and repair the problem we subject the repair to Overturf KIA at lO16 W. CoIumbia Dr. Kennewick, WA 99336 for diagnosis and repair. The vehicle needed a short-bIock to complete the repair. The total of the repair was $5040.48. As a dealer we agreed to assist the customer financially with the repair. The customer paid $3200.00 and Corwin Ford paid $1840.48. Attached are copies of the invoice from Overturf KIA for the total amount Of the repair and a copy of the Visa receipt." I have received numerous letters from KIA stating there was an issue, but when I make a claim it says my vehicle was unaffected. Obviously this is incorrect. Looking for guidance on how to hold KIA accountable. I have the same engine, model and year of the other complaints. My make, model and year are even listed on the latest paperwork sent out. INFORMATION Redacted PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).
2023-06-14
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-05-16
- VIN: KNDPB3A21C7
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Driving 25-30 MPH engine died, no warning lights illuminated prior to the engine stopping. The vehicle drifted to a stop on the side of the road. There was no loss of power steering. Safety was at risk due to sudden engine loss while driving on a road. Vehicle was towed to nearby service center for evaluation. Motor is seized per service center.
2023-06-12
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-06-02
- VIN: KNDPCCA21C7
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: I have a 2012 kia sportage. Well I found out 2012 kia sportages have a recall on the knock sensor. I found this out because while going 75 mphs on the George bush turnpike in tx, my car all of a sudden shut off and came to a complete stop! If there had been others around me I would have been in a serious car accident. When I finally got my car started again it wouldn't go over 30mph without having major problems and trying to shut down again. I had to nurse my car home that day. I had a panic attack thanks to that incident and am still shaking. After that I took it to have codes checked on it to find the problem. Come to find out the knock sensor is not working properly. We were informed by the mechanic those had been recalled on our model car back in jan 2021. Well we called kia and they said there is no recall for that part. Yet we had just received mail about that part having been recalled on our car and the lawsuit. My child and I could have DIED because the part is faulty and kia says they won't fix it.
2012 Kia Sportage recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 5 recalls for different components of the 2012 Kia Sportage.
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.
2020-12-02
- Manufacturer: Kia Motors America
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2012-2013 Sorento, 2012-2015 Forte and Forte Koup, 2011-2013 Optima Hybrid, 2014-2015 Soul, and 2012 Sportage vehicles. An engine compartment fire can occur while driving.
- Consequence: An engine compartment fire increases the risk of injury.
- Remedy: Kia will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the engine compartment for fuel and/or engine oil leaks, perform an engine test and make any repairs, including engine replacement, as necessary, free of charge. In addition, Kia dealers will update the Knock Sensor Detection System (KSDS) software, free of charge. The recall began January 27, 2021. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC200.
2019-02-15
- Manufacturer: Kia Motors America
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2011-2012 Kia Sportage vehicles. The engine oil pan may leak and, if not addressed, the loss of oil may result in engine damage.
- Consequence: A damaged engine can increase the risk of a fire or it can cause an engine stall, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Kia has notified owners, and dealers will replace the oil pressure switch with an improved one, free of charge. In addition, dealers will inspect the oil pan for any oil leaks, replacing it if necessary, free of charge. The recall began July 3, 2019. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC174.
2018-12-19
- Manufacturer: Kia Motors America
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
- Summary: Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2011-2017 Optima, 2012-2017 Sorento and 2011-2018 Sportage vehicles that previously received an engine replacement under recall number 17V-224, warranty, or the Knock Sensor Detection System (KSDS) Product Improvement Campaign. The high pressure fuel pipe that connects to the fuel pump outlet may have been damaged, misaligned or improperly torqued during the engine replacement procedure, possibly causing a fuel leak.
- Consequence: A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source can increase the risk of a fire.
- Remedy: Kia has notified owners, and dealers will inspect and replace the fuel pipe, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began January 17, 2019. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC172.
2017-03-31
- Manufacturer: Kia Motors America
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
- Summary: Kia Motor Company (Kia) is recalling certain 2011-2014 Optima, 2012-2014 Sorento and 2011-2013 Sportage vehicles. Machining errors during the engine manufacturing process may cause premature bearing wear within the engine.
- Consequence: Bearing wear may result in the engine seizing, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Kia will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the engine assembly, and replace the engine if necessary, free of charge. The recall began June 20, 2017. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC147.
Negative 2012 Kia Sportage car reviews
Positive 2012 Kia Sportage car reviews
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Congratulations on making the leap into a compact SUV! As a long-time Hyundai owner, it's great to hear that you've had such a positive experience with Kia and the Sportage. Even at the base model, the interior looks classy and sleek. The pickup is impressive, and it's great to hear that you can fit your surfboard and bike in the cargo space. While it took some getting used to, it's fantastic that you're now comfortable and enjoying the ride. With an average of 23 mph in city driving, it's clear that the Sportage is a reliable and efficient choice. I would definitely recommend it to a friend, especially considering how fast it is. Thanks for sharing your experience!
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I have a 2012 Sportage that’s about to hit 200,000 miles and is still going strong! It’s been an amazing car. However, I am now looking at replacing it with something newer. My main issue with the Sportage is the gas mileage should be better, and for that reason, I’ll be getting a different SUV. I only hope the new one is as reliable as this one has been.
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Just test drive one. You'll buy it. I got 31.3Mpg. Rented one while on vacation too!
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Hi there! I just wanted to share with you that my car has been used for rescue missions and we've transported over 4000 dogs in it! Can you believe it? It's been such a journey. And get this, it's got 356,000 miles on it! Pretty impressive, right?
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Waited a year and 16,000 miles to review, and I still love it just as much as when I bought it!! It's so much fun to drive, and I always get good mpg. Depending on the gas and time of the year, I've gotten anywhere from 23-33 mpg. Plus, there's plenty of get up and go! The back seat is roomy enough for three normal-sized people, and it's totally cool looking. In fact, my friend liked mine so much that she bought one just like it! It did well in the snow, but I don't get much snow, so I don't have a lot of experience with it. The only small complaint I have is that the Bluetooth voice isn't as accurate as I'd like. But overall, I would definitely buy it again and recommend it to others! By the way, it has a nice solid feel.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2012 Kia Sportage problems:
HELP! 2012 Kia Sportage Engine Failure! Recall SC147! | Kia Forum
https://www.kia-forums.com/threads/help-2012-kia-sportage-engine-failure-recall-sc147.349860/
Feb 9, 2021 ... Not new to this game. But anyway I gotta give a shout out to Cory and the all the team at Rusty Wallace. They said they sent it through 2 times ...
2012 Kia Sportage Problems | Kelley Blue Book
https://www.kbb.com/kia/sportage/2012/common-problems/
How reliable is the 2012 Kia Sportage? See the most common repairs performed and learn if your vehicle is at risk for major repairs in the next 12 months.
2012 Kia Sportage Problems and Complaints - 5 Issues
https://repairpal.com/2012-kia-sportage/problems
Problem with your 2012 Kia Sportage? Our list of 5 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 2012 Kia Sportage.
Common Kia Sportage 2012 Problems: Q&A on Power Steering Issues
https://www.justanswer.com/kia/9m2ib-kia-sportage-2012-lost-power-steering.html
Mar 24, 2016 ... Most of the time this occurs from a loss of battery voltage. I would start by checking to make sure that the belt on the engine is still intact.
2012 Kia Sportage Problems | CarsGuide
https://www.carsguide.com.au/kia/sportage/problems/2012
Feb 8, 2021 ... The Kia Sportage sold in the US certainly did have its share of problems. In some cases, the engine failures were traced to a faulty batch of ...
Other years of Kia Sportage
Are you having problems with your 2012 Kia Sportage?
Hobart West 2024-09-24
In July 2012, I returned a Kia Sportage KX-3 SatNav automatic awd 2 litre diesel after experiencing poor fuel consumption. Despite driving it at 70mph and 2000 revs on a mostly flat and smooth road, I was unable to get more than 30mpg. Kia advertised 47.9 mpg extra urban with the car I had with the 18 inch wheels, but even at 60 mph, I still only got a fraction over 30 mpg. I contacted Kia customer service to express my concerns and spoke to someone named J V or J G. Although I was disappointed with the initial response, I remained calm and explained my situation. The representative advised me to take the car back to the Kia dealer, which I did. Although the dealer was initially too busy to look at the car, I was eventually able to get a technical report and resolution. While I had some frustrations with the process, I ultimately appreciated the support I received from Kia. Although I may consider other options in the future, I would not rule out purchasing a Kia vehicle again.
Oswaldo Rohan 2024-09-07
I recently purchased a 2012 Kia Sportage EX and was initially very pleased with my purchase. The car rides well and has some great features, including the premium package with the NAV system and backup camera. However, I have noticed poor fuel economy, which is disappointing. The sticker claimed 21/25/32 for city/combined/hwy, but in reality, I only achieve 25-26 highway and 16-17 city. On average, I get 20-22 MPG. Consumer Reports' fuel economy testing is spot on and matches my experience, unfortunately, I didn't do my research beforehand. Overall, it's a decent car for the price, with some cool features and a nice appearance. However, I would caution others to be aware of the false fuel economy claims made by KIA.
Edmond Berge 2024-07-13
Overall, I found the vehicle to be quite comfortable in terms of ergonomics. However, it may struggle on hilly terrain due to being underpowered.
Quinn Paucek 2024-07-08
It looks like there might be some internal issues with the engine that are causing it to stall while you're driving. This can lead to the battery wearing down and the starter getting fried, which can be really frustrating. Unfortunately, it seems like the vehicle breaks down quite frequently.
Stanford Friesen 2024-07-05
I experienced multiple issues with my Kia, including engine failure at less than 70k miles, partial functionality of the power windows, and the need to replace the AC system. Despite keeping up with maintenance, I did not receive any assistance from Kia. Unfortunately, this resulted in a significant financial loss for me. I am extremely disappointed with my experience.