Owners have filed 493 complaints
about the 1999 KIA Sportage with NHTSA between 1998 and 2015.
The largest single group is the engine & cooling.
Across this model's run it ranks 4 of 30 worst.
The letter says how bad. This says what kind — whether this year drew
an unusual number of complaints, unusually dangerous
ones, or failures that arrived unusually early.
The dashed ring is 50 — the national norm. Further out is worse.
Complaint volume — 100
Against the median year of the KIA Sportage. 50 means typical for this
model; 100 means roughly double.
Severity — 71
13.8% of these complaints
involved a crash, fire, injury or death, against a national rate of
9.7%.
Early failure — 18
11% of failures with a mileage on record happened under
36,000 miles, against a national rate of
29%.
NHTSA files every complaint against a named sub-assembly, not just a
system. This is the difference between knowing it was "the engine" and
knowing which part of it — the list to hand a mechanic.
Odometer readings owners gave when they filed. About half of all
complaints include one.
1,000 – 9,999 miles
11.0%
10,000 – 24,999 miles
21.9%
25,000 – 49,999 miles
1514.6%
50,000 – 74,999 miles
3635.0%
75,000 – 99,999 miles
1615.5%
100,000 – 149,999 miles
2019.4%
150,000+ miles
1312.6%
When owners complained
A spike years after the car went on sale usually means a part wearing
out on schedule across the whole fleet — the kind of pattern no single
owner can see from inside their own car.
Oct 1998peak 30Sep 2015
NHTSA investigations into the 1999 KIA Sportage
An investigation is the step before a recall: the agency has seen enough
complaints to look into a pattern itself. An open one means it thinks
something may be wrong and nothing has been fixed yet.
EA06007Opened 9 May 2006Closed 30 Nov 2007FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
FUEL TANK LEAKAGE
A SAFETY-RELATED DEFECT TREND HAS NOT BEEN IDENTIFIED AT THIS TIME.REVIEW OF THE WARRANTY DATA REVEALED ELEVATED TANK LEAKAGE EXPERIENCE IN VEHICLES PRODUCED FROM JUNE 1999 TO OCTOBER 2000.ANALYSIS OF COMPLAINTS AND WARRANTY CLAIMS IDENTIFIED MULTIPLE CAUSES AND ORIGINS OF FUEL TANK ASSEMBLY LEAKAGE.THE MAJORITY OF COMPLAINTS INVOLVE NON-SPECIFIC ALLEGATIONS OF FUEL LEAKAGE WHERE MORE THAN ONE FUEL SYSTEM COMPONENT WAS REPLACED.ODI'S ANALYSIS FOCUSED ON LEAKS OCCURRING ON THE UNDERSIDE OF THE TANK DUE TO CORROSIVE FAILURE CAUSED BY DISRUPTION OF THE PROTECTIVE PVC COATING.THE ANALYSISINDICATES...
PE06002Opened 4 Jan 2006Closed 9 May 2006FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY
FUEL TANK LEAKAGE
ON JANUARY 4, 2006, THE OFFICE OF DEFECTS INVESTIGATION (ODI) OPENED A PRELIMINARY EVALUATION TO INVESTIGATE ALLEGED FUEL LEAKAGE FROM THE STEEL FUEL STORAGE TANK IN CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 1999-2000 KIA SPORTAGE VEHICLES.ODI SENT A LETTER TO THE MANUFACTURER ON JANUARY 25, 2006 REQUESTING INFORMATION ABOUT THESE AND OTHER KIA SPORTAGE VEHICLES.ODI IS AWARE OF 40 NON-DUPLICATIVE COMPLAINTS THAT ALLEGE FUEL STORAGE TANK LEAKAGE IN THE SUBJECT VEHICLES.ANALYSIS OF MANUFACTURER DATA INDICATES THAT ALLEGED FUEL LEAKAGE AT OR NEAR THE STORAGE TANK MAY BE ATTRIBUTED TO SEVERAL DIFFERENT FAILURE MODES INV...
EA04007Opened 27 Feb 2004Closed 26 Jul 2004SEAT BELTS:FRONT:BUCKLE ASSEMBLY
SEAT BELT BUCKLE FALSE LATCH/MALFUNCTION
THE MANUFACTURER HAS INITIATED A SAFETY RELATED CAMPAIGN TO RECALL THE SUBJECT VEHICLES FOR CORRECTION OF THE SEAT BELT BUCKLE DEFECT.THE CORRECTIVE ACTION IS TO REPLACE THE SEAT BELTS/BUCKLES.THIS SAFETY RECALL PROGRAM HAS BEEN ASSIGNED NHTSA CAMPAIGN NO. 04V305.
RQ03007Opened 14 Oct 2003Closed 27 Feb 2004SEAT BELTS:FRONT:BUCKLE ASSEMBLY
SEAT BELT BUCKLE FALSE LATCH/MALFUNCTION
INFORMATION RECEIVED AND ANALYZED DURING THIS RQ DISCLOSED THAT MY 1999 AND 2000 KIA SEPHIA AND SPORTAGE VEHICLES WERE EQUIPPED WITH MODIFIED VERSIONS OF THE SAME SAFETY BELT LATCH ASSEMBLY AS THOSE RECALLED IN CAMPAIGN NO. 02V-216.THESE LATCH ASSEMBLIES WERE IDENTIFIED AS TYPE A97. ODI ANALYSES INDICATE A CONTINUING TREND OF CONSUMER COMPLAINTS FOLLOWING A SERIES OF DESIGN MODIFICATIONS MADE BY KIA TO IMPROVE THE A97 LATCH ASSEMBLY.MY 2001 AND 2002 SUBJECT VEHICLES WERE EQUIPPED WITH DIFFERENT DESIGN LATCH ASSEMBLIES (TYPE DB-6 OR AUTOLIV) AND EXHIBIT A MUCH LOWER COMPLAINT COUNT.THIS RQ HAS...
RQ02013Opened 18 Oct 2002Closed 2 Sep 2003ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING:FRONT UNDERHOOD
ENGINE STALLING POST-RECALL
RQ02-013 WAS OPENED TO ASSESS THE SCOPE AND ADEQUACY OF RECALL 99V-325, WHICH INVOLVED MODIFICATIONS TO THE ENGINE FUEL INJECTION WIRE HARNESS (HARNESS).VEHICLES PRODUCED AFTER THE RECALL POPULATION HAVE SHOWN NO SIGNS OF A DEFECT TREND.THE MAJORITY OF RECALL REMEDY FAILURES IDENTIFIED WERE REPAIRED WITHIN ONE DAY OF THE INITIAL WORK.SUBSEQUENT FAILURE EXPERIENCE IS MINIMAL (249/55,548 VEHICLES REMEDIED).FIELD DATA SHOW NO INDICATION OF AN ONGOING CONCERN: OF 627 POST-RECALL STALLING-RELATED WIRE HARNESS WARRANTY REPAIRS, ONLY SEVEN OCCURRED IN 2003.CONSUMER COMPLAINTS AND FUEL INJECTION WIRE...
PE02002Opened 9 Jan 2002Closed 7 Aug 2002VISIBILITY
WINDSHIELD WIPER
EA00018Opened 29 Jun 2000Closed 29 Jul 2002EXTERIOR LIGHTING
TURN SIGHAL
PE00004Opened 13 Jan 2000Closed 29 Jun 2000EXTERIOR LIGHTING
TURN SIGNAL, TRAFFIC SAFETY HAZARD
ALLEGE THAT WHILE DRIVING, THE TRUN SIGNAL SWITCH FAILED.THIS FAILURE INCREASES THE RISK OF A VEHICLE CRASH DUE TO OPERATOR DISTRACTION AND DUE TO OTHER VEHICLES BEING UNINFORMED OF THE OPERATOR'S INTENTIONS.
Complaints that involved harm
Reports where the owner recorded a crash, a fire, an injury or a death.
at 157,000 milesBrocton, NYCrash
AIR BAGS
DURING SNOW/ICE WEATHER CONDITIONS I LOST CONTROL OF MY VEHICLE ON 01/11/07 GOING STRAIGHT ON RT.380 IN STOCKTON, NY. MY VEHICLE ROLLED OVER, AND LANDED FRONT END DOWN, UPSIDE DOWN IN A DITCH. DURING THE CRASH, NONE OF THE THREE AIR BAGS ENGAGED/RELEASED. BECAUSE OF THE IMPACT ON THE FRONT END OF MY VEHICLE, THINK THEY SHOULD HAVE RELEASED. NO INJURY WAS DONE TO MYSELF, AND NO ONE WAS IN MY VEHICLE, BUT I WAS VERY LUCKY. NOTHING NEEDED TO BE DONE TO CORRECT THIS FAILURE.
NHTSA complaint #10181038 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Palmetto, FLCrash
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:MASTER CYLINDER
THIS KIA WAS PURCHASED NEW AND IS A ONE OWNER CAR. IT HAS HAD 2 MASTER CYLINDERS, AND 4 SETS OF BRAKE PADS. THE CAR CURRENTLY HAS 50,000 MILES ON IT. THE CAR SLIDES TO THE RIGHT ON WET ROADS AND DOES NOT STOP UNTIL IT HITS SOMETHING OR SLOWS TO A STOP. I HAVE SLID 2 TIMES, REAR ENDED SOMEONE THE 3RD, AND MY SON HIT A LIGHT POLE. THE OTHER TIMES THE BRAKES MAY OR MAY NOT WORK. THE PROBLEM IS WORSE DURING RAINY WEATHER. THE BRAKES GO TO THE FLOOR AND THE CAR DOES NOT STOP. AT TIMES THE BRAKES VIBRATE. THIS CAR HAS HAD A NEW CLOTH TOP, NEW AIR CONDITIONING 2X, 5 CATALYTIC CONVERTERS, NEW CARPET FROM THE AIR LEAKING AND MOLDING, NEW SEAT COVERS AS THEY RIPPED, NEW BRAKES, ROTORS, PADS SEVERAL ITEMS I HAVE LOST COUNT, THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT COMES ON, THE CAR HAS BEEN RE-WIRED, AT TIMES THE CAR WON'T ACCELERATE IF THE AIR CONDITIONER IS ON. LAST NIGHT THE HIGHWAY PATROL OFFICE WANTED TO KNOW WHY I WOULD ENDANGER MY SON'S LIFE IN A CAR THAT WON'T STOP OR SLIDES. THAT IS A GOOD QUESTION. WHY ARE ANY OF THESE MODELS STILL ON THE HIGHWAY WHEN THERE ARE SO MANY THINGS WRONG WITH THEM. IN LOOKING AT THE COMPLAINTS THERE WERE MANY THAT DEALT WITH THE BRAKES. AT THIS POINT IS THERE ANY RECOURSE WITH THE CAR? I DON'T FEEL THAT I CAN SELL IT OUTRIGHT HONESTLY AND PUT SOMEONES LIFE IN DANGER. THE HIGHWAY PATROL OFFICER MADE ME FEEL LIKE A NEGLECTFUL PARENT BY EVEN LETTING MY SON DRIVE THE CAR. WE EVEN PARKED IT FOR 6 MONTHS TRYING TO DECIDE WHAT TO DO WITH THE CAR. MY SON'S CAR WAS IN THE REPAIR SHOP, SO HE TOOK THE KIA. I FEEL THAT THE CAR IS A DEATH TRAP.
NHTSA complaint #10166674 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Palmetto, FLCrash
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:EMISSION CONTROL:CATALYTIC CONVERTOR
THIS KIA WAS PURCHASED NEW AND IS A ONE OWNER CAR. IT HAS HAD 2 MASTER CYLINDERS, AND 4 SETS OF BRAKE PADS. THE CAR CURRENTLY HAS 50,000 MILES ON IT. THE CAR SLIDES TO THE RIGHT ON WET ROADS AND DOES NOT STOP UNTIL IT HITS SOMETHING OR SLOWS TO A STOP. I HAVE SLID 2 TIMES, REAR ENDED SOMEONE THE 3RD, AND MY SON HIT A LIGHT POLE. THE OTHER TIMES THE BRAKES MAY OR MAY NOT WORK. THE PROBLEM IS WORSE DURING RAINY WEATHER. THE BRAKES GO TO THE FLOOR AND THE CAR DOES NOT STOP. AT TIMES THE BRAKES VIBRATE. THIS CAR HAS HAD A NEW CLOTH TOP, NEW AIR CONDITIONING 2X, 5 CATALYTIC CONVERTERS, NEW CARPET FROM THE AIR LEAKING AND MOLDING, NEW SEAT COVERS AS THEY RIPPED, NEW BRAKES, ROTORS, PADS SEVERAL ITEMS I HAVE LOST COUNT, THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT COMES ON, THE CAR HAS BEEN RE-WIRED, AT TIMES THE CAR WON'T ACCELERATE IF THE AIR CONDITIONER IS ON. LAST NIGHT THE HIGHWAY PATROL OFFICE WANTED TO KNOW WHY I WOULD ENDANGER MY SON'S LIFE IN A CAR THAT WON'T STOP OR SLIDES. THAT IS A GOOD QUESTION. WHY ARE ANY OF THESE MODELS STILL ON THE HIGHWAY WHEN THERE ARE SO MANY THINGS WRONG WITH THEM. IN LOOKING AT THE COMPLAINTS THERE WERE MANY THAT DEALT WITH THE BRAKES. AT THIS POINT IS THERE ANY RECOURSE WITH THE CAR? I DON'T FEEL THAT I CAN SELL IT OUTRIGHT HONESTLY AND PUT SOMEONES LIFE IN DANGER. THE HIGHWAY PATROL OFFICER MADE ME FEEL LIKE A NEGLECTFUL PARENT BY EVEN LETTING MY SON DRIVE THE CAR. WE EVEN PARKED IT FOR 6 MONTHS TRYING TO DECIDE WHAT TO DO WITH THE CAR. MY SON'S CAR WAS IN THE REPAIR SHOP, SO HE TOOK THE KIA. I FEEL THAT THE CAR IS A DEATH TRAP.
NHTSA complaint #10166674 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Palmetto, FLCrash
EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER
THIS KIA WAS PURCHASED NEW AND IS A ONE OWNER CAR. IT HAS HAD 2 MASTER CYLINDERS, AND 4 SETS OF BRAKE PADS. THE CAR CURRENTLY HAS 50,000 MILES ON IT. THE CAR SLIDES TO THE RIGHT ON WET ROADS AND DOES NOT STOP UNTIL IT HITS SOMETHING OR SLOWS TO A STOP. I HAVE SLID 2 TIMES, REAR ENDED SOMEONE THE 3RD, AND MY SON HIT A LIGHT POLE. THE OTHER TIMES THE BRAKES MAY OR MAY NOT WORK. THE PROBLEM IS WORSE DURING RAINY WEATHER. THE BRAKES GO TO THE FLOOR AND THE CAR DOES NOT STOP. AT TIMES THE BRAKES VIBRATE. THIS CAR HAS HAD A NEW CLOTH TOP, NEW AIR CONDITIONING 2X, 5 CATALYTIC CONVERTERS, NEW CARPET FROM THE AIR LEAKING AND MOLDING, NEW SEAT COVERS AS THEY RIPPED, NEW BRAKES, ROTORS, PADS SEVERAL ITEMS I HAVE LOST COUNT, THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT COMES ON, THE CAR HAS BEEN RE-WIRED, AT TIMES THE CAR WON'T ACCELERATE IF THE AIR CONDITIONER IS ON. LAST NIGHT THE HIGHWAY PATROL OFFICE WANTED TO KNOW WHY I WOULD ENDANGER MY SON'S LIFE IN A CAR THAT WON'T STOP OR SLIDES. THAT IS A GOOD QUESTION. WHY ARE ANY OF THESE MODELS STILL ON THE HIGHWAY WHEN THERE ARE SO MANY THINGS WRONG WITH THEM. IN LOOKING AT THE COMPLAINTS THERE WERE MANY THAT DEALT WITH THE BRAKES. AT THIS POINT IS THERE ANY RECOURSE WITH THE CAR? I DON'T FEEL THAT I CAN SELL IT OUTRIGHT HONESTLY AND PUT SOMEONES LIFE IN DANGER. THE HIGHWAY PATROL OFFICER MADE ME FEEL LIKE A NEGLECTFUL PARENT BY EVEN LETTING MY SON DRIVE THE CAR. WE EVEN PARKED IT FOR 6 MONTHS TRYING TO DECIDE WHAT TO DO WITH THE CAR. MY SON'S CAR WAS IN THE REPAIR SHOP, SO HE TOOK THE KIA. I FEEL THAT THE CAR IS A DEATH TRAP.
NHTSA complaint #10166674 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Palmetto, FLCrash
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
THIS KIA WAS PURCHASED NEW AND IS A ONE OWNER CAR. IT HAS HAD 2 MASTER CYLINDERS, AND 4 SETS OF BRAKE PADS. THE CAR CURRENTLY HAS 50,000 MILES ON IT. THE CAR SLIDES TO THE RIGHT ON WET ROADS AND DOES NOT STOP UNTIL IT HITS SOMETHING OR SLOWS TO A STOP. I HAVE SLID 2 TIMES, REAR ENDED SOMEONE THE 3RD, AND MY SON HIT A LIGHT POLE. THE OTHER TIMES THE BRAKES MAY OR MAY NOT WORK. THE PROBLEM IS WORSE DURING RAINY WEATHER. THE BRAKES GO TO THE FLOOR AND THE CAR DOES NOT STOP. AT TIMES THE BRAKES VIBRATE. THIS CAR HAS HAD A NEW CLOTH TOP, NEW AIR CONDITIONING 2X, 5 CATALYTIC CONVERTERS, NEW CARPET FROM THE AIR LEAKING AND MOLDING, NEW SEAT COVERS AS THEY RIPPED, NEW BRAKES, ROTORS, PADS SEVERAL ITEMS I HAVE LOST COUNT, THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT COMES ON, THE CAR HAS BEEN RE-WIRED, AT TIMES THE CAR WON'T ACCELERATE IF THE AIR CONDITIONER IS ON. LAST NIGHT THE HIGHWAY PATROL OFFICE WANTED TO KNOW WHY I WOULD ENDANGER MY SON'S LIFE IN A CAR THAT WON'T STOP OR SLIDES. THAT IS A GOOD QUESTION. WHY ARE ANY OF THESE MODELS STILL ON THE HIGHWAY WHEN THERE ARE SO MANY THINGS WRONG WITH THEM. IN LOOKING AT THE COMPLAINTS THERE WERE MANY THAT DEALT WITH THE BRAKES. AT THIS POINT IS THERE ANY RECOURSE WITH THE CAR? I DON'T FEEL THAT I CAN SELL IT OUTRIGHT HONESTLY AND PUT SOMEONES LIFE IN DANGER. THE HIGHWAY PATROL OFFICER MADE ME FEEL LIKE A NEGLECTFUL PARENT BY EVEN LETTING MY SON DRIVE THE CAR. WE EVEN PARKED IT FOR 6 MONTHS TRYING TO DECIDE WHAT TO DO WITH THE CAR. MY SON'S CAR WAS IN THE REPAIR SHOP, SO HE TOOK THE KIA. I FEEL THAT THE CAR IS A DEATH TRAP.
NHTSA complaint #10166674 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 92,955 milesChester, VACrash
TIRES:SIDEWALL
IN JUNE OF 2004 MY HUSBAND WAS ON HIS WAY TO DROP SOMETHING OFF TO ME AT WORK. HIM AND MY SON MADE A RIGHT ONTO ONE OF THE BACK ROADS. THEY HAD TO COME AROUND A BIG CORNER HE COULD NOT HAVE BEEN GOING 25 MPH. THE REPLACEMENT TIRES I HAD PURCHASED AT SEARS, AMERITRAC SUV TIRES P20575R15 THE RIGHT FRONT TIRE BLEW OUT A HOLE THE SIZE OF A FIST ON THE FRONT SIDE OF THE TIRE BOTH MY SON AND HUSBAND HEARD THE BANG. THE VEHICLE WAS THROWN OUT OF CONTROL WENT INTO A DITCH DID A HALF ROLL ON ITS SIDE TOOK OUT 6 MAILBOXES CONTINUED ON ALL FOUR WHEELS FOR ABOUT A HUNDRED FEET CAME TO STOP ON OTHER SIDE OF ROAD. THE VEHICLE JUST HAD BEEN SERVICED AND TIRES ROTATED FROM BACK TO FRONT A WEEK BEFORE AND LOOKED GREAT THE POLICE OFFICER AT THE SCENE SAID THERE WAS NO OBJECTS IN THE ROAD TO CAUSE FAILURE AND MY SON AND HUSBAND DID NOT FEEL ANYTHING OR SEE ANYTHING IN THE ROAD. MY SUV WAS A TOTAL LOSS. MY SON HAD A HOLE IN HIS KNEE WERE THE SEAT CAME UP AND JAB HIM BUT WAS NOT TAKEN TO HOSPITAL I HANDLED IT AT HOME. I HAVE THE TIRE AND PICTURES OF THE SCENE AND SUV. I HAVE BEEN TRYING TO FIND SOMEBODY TO MAKE AWARE OF THIS ISSUE I HOPE I FINALLY DID. I DID HAVE THE TIRE LOOKED AT BY THREE MECHANICS I WAS TOLD POSSIBLE BEADED BLOWOUT. THERE WAS STILL A GREAT DEAL OF TREAD LEFT ON TIRES.
NHTSA complaint #10141869 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The most recent complaints
In the owners' own words, exactly as filed with NHTSA.
at 333,000 milesCharlotte, NC
POWER TRAIN
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1999 KIA SPORTAGE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE EMITTED STRONG FUEL FUMES ON THE EXTERIOR AND THE INTERIOR. THE DEALER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE AND STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN A MANUFACTURER'S RECALL AND THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED. THE CONTACT ALSO STATED THAT THE TIMING BELT FAILED THREE TIMES AND WAS REPLACED BY A MECHANIC. THE DRIVE TRAIN FAILED ONCE AND WAS REPLACED BY A MECHANIC. THE CRANK SHAFT WAS ALSO REPLACED ONCE. THE CONTACT ALSO WAS EXPERIENCING A TRANSMISSION FAILURE IN WHICH THE GEARS SLIPPED RANDOMLY AND WERE SLOW TO CHANGE OVER. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER MORE THAN THREE TIMES AND THEY WERE NOT ABLE TO REMEDY THE FAILURE. THE CONTACT REPLACED THE SEALS DUE TO THE TRANSMISSION FAILURE. THE FUEL LEAK CONTINUED AND WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE AND PROVIDED NO REMEDY. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 333,000.
NHTSA complaint #10778236 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 333,000 milesCharlotte, NC
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1999 KIA SPORTAGE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE EMITTED STRONG FUEL FUMES ON THE EXTERIOR AND THE INTERIOR. THE DEALER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE AND STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN A MANUFACTURER'S RECALL AND THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED. THE CONTACT ALSO STATED THAT THE TIMING BELT FAILED THREE TIMES AND WAS REPLACED BY A MECHANIC. THE DRIVE TRAIN FAILED ONCE AND WAS REPLACED BY A MECHANIC. THE CRANK SHAFT WAS ALSO REPLACED ONCE. THE CONTACT ALSO WAS EXPERIENCING A TRANSMISSION FAILURE IN WHICH THE GEARS SLIPPED RANDOMLY AND WERE SLOW TO CHANGE OVER. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER MORE THAN THREE TIMES AND THEY WERE NOT ABLE TO REMEDY THE FAILURE. THE CONTACT REPLACED THE SEALS DUE TO THE TRANSMISSION FAILURE. THE FUEL LEAK CONTINUED AND WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE AND PROVIDED NO REMEDY. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 333,000.
NHTSA complaint #10778236 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 333,000 milesCharlotte, NC
ENGINE
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1999 KIA SPORTAGE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE EMITTED STRONG FUEL FUMES ON THE EXTERIOR AND THE INTERIOR. THE DEALER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE AND STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN A MANUFACTURER'S RECALL AND THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED. THE CONTACT ALSO STATED THAT THE TIMING BELT FAILED THREE TIMES AND WAS REPLACED BY A MECHANIC. THE DRIVE TRAIN FAILED ONCE AND WAS REPLACED BY A MECHANIC. THE CRANK SHAFT WAS ALSO REPLACED ONCE. THE CONTACT ALSO WAS EXPERIENCING A TRANSMISSION FAILURE IN WHICH THE GEARS SLIPPED RANDOMLY AND WERE SLOW TO CHANGE OVER. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER MORE THAN THREE TIMES AND THEY WERE NOT ABLE TO REMEDY THE FAILURE. THE CONTACT REPLACED THE SEALS DUE TO THE TRANSMISSION FAILURE. THE FUEL LEAK CONTINUED AND WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE AND PROVIDED NO REMEDY. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 333,000.
NHTSA complaint #10778236 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 333,000 milesCharlotte, NC
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1999 KIA SPORTAGE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE EMITTED STRONG FUEL FUMES ON THE EXTERIOR AND THE INTERIOR. THE DEALER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE AND STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN A MANUFACTURER'S RECALL AND THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED. THE CONTACT ALSO STATED THAT THE TIMING BELT FAILED THREE TIMES AND WAS REPLACED BY A MECHANIC. THE DRIVE TRAIN FAILED ONCE AND WAS REPLACED BY A MECHANIC. THE CRANK SHAFT WAS ALSO REPLACED ONCE. THE CONTACT ALSO WAS EXPERIENCING A TRANSMISSION FAILURE IN WHICH THE GEARS SLIPPED RANDOMLY AND WERE SLOW TO CHANGE OVER. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER MORE THAN THREE TIMES AND THEY WERE NOT ABLE TO REMEDY THE FAILURE. THE CONTACT REPLACED THE SEALS DUE TO THE TRANSMISSION FAILURE. THE FUEL LEAK CONTINUED AND WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE AND PROVIDED NO REMEDY. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 333,000.
NHTSA complaint #10778236 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 189,000 milesYachaps, OR
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1999 KIA SPORTAGE. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 10 MPH, THE TRANSMISSION SLIPPED GEARS WITHOUT WARNING. THE FAILURE RECURRED SPORADICALLY. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC FOR DIAGNOSIS, WHO STATED THAT THE TRANSMISSION WOULD NEED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE HAD NOT BEEN REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE DEFECT. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 127,000.
NHTSA complaint #10588573 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 124,971 milesStone Mountain, GA
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
I HAD JUST FILLED GAS TANK WITH UNLEADED GAS. WHEN I NOTICED A STRONG GAS SMELL. THE CAR SITS ALL DAY. I ONLY MOVE IT FOR EMISSIONS EACH YEAR I WORK FROM HOME. THEY TESTED AND TOLD ME EVAP EMISSION CONTROL SYS MALF. THE GUY SAID HE COULD SEE GAS LEAKING FROM MY FUEL LINE. HE SAID IT WAS A RECALL ON THIS TO CHECK WITH KIA. KIA TOLD ME MY VIN NUMBER DID NOT MATCH THE RECALL. THIS CAR DOES NOT SEE ALOT OF ACTION THERE IS NO REASON OTHER THAN A FEW GOOD SNOWS THAT MAY HAVE RUSTED THE TANK OTHER WISE WHY WOULD MY TANK ALL OF A SUDDEN LEAK GAS. THIS IS A HAZARD THAT I THINK KIA SHOULD BE RESPONSIBLE FOR. I AM THE SECOND OWNER OF THE CAR AND HAVE HAD IT LONGER THAN THE FIRST. I HAVE EXPERIENCED FIRST HAND SOME ISSUES THIS MODEL HAS HAD WHICH KIA TOOK CARE OF. BUT THEY REFUSE THIS.
NHTSA complaint #10569244 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 160,000 milesAlbany, OH
STRUCTURE:BODY
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1999 KIA SPORTAGE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 40 MPH, THE VEHICLE BEGAN TO SHAKE VIOLENTLY AND CAUSED THAT CONTACT TO LOSE CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT NOTICED THAT THERE WAS CORROSION ON THE REAR END OF THE VEHICLE AFTER HE REGAINED CONTROL, STOPPED AND EXITED THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO THE DEALER FOR INSPECTION. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 160,000.
NHTSA complaint #10562740 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 168,390 milesWallington, NJ
ENGINE
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1999 KIA SPORTAGE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 15 MPH, THE ENGINE STALLED WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER BUT THEY DID NOT INSPECT THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 168,390. UPDATED 02/03/2014 *LJ UPDATED 02/24/14
NHTSA complaint #10559564 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 161,000 milesAlbany, OH
POWER TRAIN
REAR FRAME OF MY 1999 KIA SPORTAGE ROTTED, AND CAUSING THE WHOLE REAREND TO SHIFT SEVERELY. AT 30MPH. CAUSING ME TO PARK MY SPORTAGE. REST OF THE FRAME IN GOOD SHAPE.
NHTSA complaint #10557195 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 161,000 milesAlbany, OH
SUSPENSION
REAR FRAME OF MY 1999 KIA SPORTAGE ROTTED, AND CAUSING THE WHOLE REAREND TO SHIFT SEVERELY. AT 30MPH. CAUSING ME TO PARK MY SPORTAGE. REST OF THE FRAME IN GOOD SHAPE.
NHTSA complaint #10557195 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 161,000 milesAlbany, OH
STRUCTURE:BODY
REAR FRAME OF MY 1999 KIA SPORTAGE ROTTED, AND CAUSING THE WHOLE REAREND TO SHIFT SEVERELY. AT 30MPH. CAUSING ME TO PARK MY SPORTAGE. REST OF THE FRAME IN GOOD SHAPE.
NHTSA complaint #10557195 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 94,000 milesWilkes Barre, PA
STRUCTURE:BODY
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1999 KIA SPORTAGE. THE CONTACT WAS DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 55 MPH WHEN A LARGER TRUCK PASSED HIM ON THE ROADWAY AND CAUSED THE CONTACT'S VEHICLE TO SWERVE INTO ANOTHER LANE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC, WHO DIAGNOSED THAT THE FRAME WAS FRACTURED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 94,000.
NHTSA complaint #10556230 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Covington, GA
SEAT BELTS
FRONT LEFT SIDE SEAT BELT, WON'T RETRACT.
NHTSA complaint #10549869 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 122,000 milesGranite City, IL
STRUCTURE:FRAME AND MEMBERS:UNDERBODY SHIELDS
I WAS DRIVING ON THE INTERSTATE AND HIT A BUMP WHEN MY CAR BEGAN SWAYING BACK AND FORTH FROM SIDE TO SIDE. I HAD A VERY HARD TIME MAINTAINING CONTROL. I SLOWLY DROVE HOME AND UPON FURTHER INSPECTION UNDERNEATH MY 1999 KIA SPORTAGE I DISCOVER THE FRAME IS TOTALLY RUSTED TO THE POINT OF FALLING APART. THE PASSENGER SIDE OF THE FRAME IS ALMOST NON EXISTENT AND THE DRIVERS SIDE ISN'T MUCH BETTER THERE ARE HOLES AND PIECES OF THE FRAME GONE. I HAVE BEEN READING ON LINE THAT THIS IS A HUGE PROBLEM MY 11 YEAR OLD DAUGHTER OR MYSELF COULD HAVE BEEN KILLED BECAUSE OF THIS DEFECT, PLEASE DO SOMETHING SO OTHERS WILL NOT HAVE TO WORRY ABOUT THIS.
NHTSA complaint #10548641 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 72,083 milesBarbersville, WV
STRUCTURE:BODY
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1999 KIA SPORTAGE. THE CONTACT TOOK THE VEHICLE FOR AN OIL CHANGE AND WAS TOLD THAT THE FRAME OF THE VEHICLE WAS RUSTED COMPLETELY. THE CONTACT TOOK THE VEHICLE TO THE DEALER WHERE AN ENGINEER FOR THE MANUFACTURER INSPECTED AND DETERMINED THAT THE REAR FRAME WAS SEVERELY RUSTED AND COULD NOT BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 72,083.
NHTSA complaint #10432924 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Lehigh Acre, FL
POWER TRAIN
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1999 KIA SPORTAGE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WOULD HESITATE WHEN ACCELERATING. WHEN ACCELERATING FROM A COMPLETE STOP, THERE WAS A DELAY IN THE VEHICLE ACCELERATING AND WHEN IT WOULD, THE TRANSMISSION WOULD EXHIBIT AN ABNORMAL NOISE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INSPECTED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNKNOWN.
NHTSA complaint #10426954 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 88,000 milesDelray Beach, FL
STRUCTURE:FRAME AND MEMBERS
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1999 KIA SPORTAGE. WHILE DRIVING 50 MPH, THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE BEGAN TO SWAY BACK AND FORTH. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A MECHANIC WHERE THEY ADVISED THAT THE VEHICLE HAD RUSTED FROM THE CHASSIS ON THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE. THE MECHANIC ALSO ADVISED THAT THE FAILURE WAS NON-REPAIRABLE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED BUT WAS UNABLE TO ASSIST. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 88,000. UPDATED 9/16/11 *CN UPDATED 2/9/12
NHTSA complaint #10408646 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 160,000 milesPhila, PA
STRUCTURE:FRAME AND MEMBERS
1995 TO 2002 KIA SPORTAGES FRAMES ARE ROTTING OUT AND GAS TANKS LEAKING ALSO. KIA REFUSES TO REPAIR OR PUT OUT A RECALL ON THIS ISSUE. VEHICLES ARE A SAFETY ISSUE TO THE PUBLIC. FORD WINDSTARS HAD SIMILAR PROBLEMS FROM 1998 TO 2003 BACK AXLE ROTTING OUT, THEY ARE TAKING ACTION AND OWNING UP TO THE PROBLEM. I HAVE BEEN A STATE INSPECTION MECHANIC FOR THE STATE OF PA. FOR 35YRS THIS DEFECT IS GOING TO CAUSE SEVERAL CRASHES, MAYBE DEATHS. KIA IS NOT CONCERNED ABOUT THIS MATTER ANY HELP WOULD BE GREAT. THANKS
NHTSA complaint #10380152 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 160,000 milesPhila, PA
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
1995 TO 2002 KIA SPORTAGES FRAMES ARE ROTTING OUT AND GAS TANKS LEAKING ALSO. KIA REFUSES TO REPAIR OR PUT OUT A RECALL ON THIS ISSUE. VEHICLES ARE A SAFETY ISSUE TO THE PUBLIC. FORD WINDSTARS HAD SIMILAR PROBLEMS FROM 1998 TO 2003 BACK AXLE ROTTING OUT, THEY ARE TAKING ACTION AND OWNING UP TO THE PROBLEM. I HAVE BEEN A STATE INSPECTION MECHANIC FOR THE STATE OF PA. FOR 35YRS THIS DEFECT IS GOING TO CAUSE SEVERAL CRASHES, MAYBE DEATHS. KIA IS NOT CONCERNED ABOUT THIS MATTER ANY HELP WOULD BE GREAT. THANKS
NHTSA complaint #10380152 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 105,000 milesLivingston, TX
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1999 KIA SHORTAGE. THE CONTACT STATED AFTER DISPENSING FUEL INTO THE FULL TANK, HE WOULD SMELL A STRONG ODOR OF FUEL INSIDE AND OUTSIDE OF THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE THEY WERE UNABLE TO LOCATE THE PROBLEM. THERE WAS A MANUFACTURE VOLUNTARY RECALL PERTAINING TO THE FUEL SYSTEM. THE CONTACT NOTIFIED THE DEALER AND THEY INFORMED THAT SAFETY RECALL EXPIRED. IN ADDITION, THE FUEL TANK WAS NOT IN STOCK. THE PROBLEM PERSISTED AND BECAME PROGRESSIVELY WORSE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 105,000. UPDATED 2/23/11 *CN THE CONSUMER STATED THE FUEL TANK AND FUEL PUMP HAD RUST PROBLEMS. THE CONSUMER WAS INFORMED IT WAS NOT SAFE TO DRIVE THE VEHICLE. THE CONSUMER HAS SINCE PURCHASED ANOTHER VEHICLE. UPDATED 02/28/11
NHTSA complaint #10362934 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 55,000 milesRandolph, MA
STRUCTURE:FRAME AND MEMBERS
I HAVE A 1999 KIA SPORTAGE WITH 55,000 MILES ON IT. THE ENTIRE FRAME IS ROTTED AND RUSTED OUT. CANNOT DRIVE THE VEHICLE IN SAFETY. WILL NOT PASS INSPECTION. I HAVE 6 MORE MONTHS OF PAYMENTS I WANT TO KNOW WHAT I CAN DO ABOUT THIS? THIS IS UNACCEPTABLE. 3 DEALERSHIPS WOULD NOT EVEN TAKE IT AS A TRADE! I WAS TOLD NOT TO DRIVE THE VEHICLE BECAUSE THE GASTANK COULD FALL DOWN IF I HIT A BUMP IN THE ROAD AND THE VEHICLE COULD EXPLODE.
NHTSA complaint #10359438 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 139,000 milesFranklin, NJ
STRUCTURE:FRAME AND MEMBERS
1999 KIA SPORTAGE. I HAVE OWNED IT SINCE 2008. I HAVE HAD THE GAS TANK PATCHED 3 TIMES, THEN COMPLETELY REPLACED COST OF OVER 400 DOLLARS. MY MECHANIC SAID THE TANK KEPT RUSTING NO MATTER WHAT HE TRIED AND IT WAS DEFECTIVE. ALL REAR BRAKES TWICE AND NOW WITH EVEN NEW LEVER AND OTHER PARTS 420 DOLLARS. NOW THE CAR IS UNDRIVEABLE DUE TO THE REAR FRAME WHICH HAS CRACKED AND SEPARATED CAUSING THE CAR TO SWAY AND MAKING STEERING EXTREMELY DIFFICULT. I THOUGHT IT WAS A SHOCK THAT BROKE WHEN I HEARD THE CLUNKING SOUND, TOOK IT TO THE MECHANIC WHO INFORMED ME THE CAR WAS TO UNSAFE TO DRIVE BECAUSE THE FRAME IS SWINGING ALL AROUND. I HAVE NO OTHER VEHICLE AND TWO CHILDREN AM A SINGLE PARENT. NOW I CAN'T GET TO WORK, APPOINTMENTS, SCHOOLS ECT.
NHTSA complaint #10356953 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 100,198 milesSpringfield, OH
STRUCTURE:FRAME AND MEMBERS
I OWN A 1999 KIA SPORTAGE AND RECENTLY HAD IT RACKED TO SEE WHAT THE NOISE WAS THAT WAS COMING FROM UNDERNEATH MY CAR. THE ENTIRE UNDERCARRIAGE HAS RUSTED OUT AND THE FAME IS SEPARATING FROM EACH OTHER, LEANING ON THE SHOCK ABSORBERS ON BOTH SIDES, THERE ARE LARGE HOLES IN THE FAME WHERE THEY HAVE RUSTED THROUGH, THE FUEL TANK AND SHIELD IS RUSTED OUT AND THIS CAR IS A TICKING TIME BOMB, READY TO FALL APART, AND OR IF ANYTHING HITS THE FUEL TANK IT WILL DISINTEGRATE AND POSSIBLY EXPLODE. THIS CAR IS LITERALLY COMING APART UNDERNEATH.TWO OF THE DOORS PANELS UNDERNEATH HAVE RUSTED AWAY. EVERYTHING IS RUSTED AND IT SCARES ME TO DEATH TO BE DRIVING IT NOW THAT I HAVE SEEN THE UNDERCARRIAGE. I HAVE MANY PHOTOS TO SUBMIT FOR PROOF OF THE PROBLEM.APPARENTLY THIS CAR HAS BEEN RUSTING FOR SOME TIME AND I HAVE NEVER NOTICED IT. I BOUGHT IT BRAND NEW IN SEPTEMBER OF 1999. IT HAS PREMATURELY RUSTED OUT UNLIKE MOST VEHICLES WHICH LAST FOR MANY YEARS. I WAS INFORMED BY MY BROTHER THIS PAST SUMMER AND HE TOLD ME THAT THERE WAS A SERVICE CAMPAIGN ON THE FUEL TANK BUT WHEN I TOOK IT TO THE DEALER, THEY SAID IT WAS PAST THE 10 YEAR MARK BY A FEW MONTHS AND THEY WOULDN'T DO ANYTHING ABOUT IT. I HAVE BEEN IN CONTACT WITH KIA TO GATHER INFORMATION ABOUT RECALLS AND SERVICE CAMPAIGN NOTICES OF WHICH I ONLY WAS NOTIFIED ABOUT 3 OR 4 OF THEM SHORTLY AFTER I PURCHASED IT.
NHTSA complaint #10349703 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 100,198 milesSpringfield, OH
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
I OWN A 1999 KIA SPORTAGE AND RECENTLY HAD IT RACKED TO SEE WHAT THE NOISE WAS THAT WAS COMING FROM UNDERNEATH MY CAR. THE ENTIRE UNDERCARRIAGE HAS RUSTED OUT AND THE FAME IS SEPARATING FROM EACH OTHER, LEANING ON THE SHOCK ABSORBERS ON BOTH SIDES, THERE ARE LARGE HOLES IN THE FAME WHERE THEY HAVE RUSTED THROUGH, THE FUEL TANK AND SHIELD IS RUSTED OUT AND THIS CAR IS A TICKING TIME BOMB, READY TO FALL APART, AND OR IF ANYTHING HITS THE FUEL TANK IT WILL DISINTEGRATE AND POSSIBLY EXPLODE. THIS CAR IS LITERALLY COMING APART UNDERNEATH.TWO OF THE DOORS PANELS UNDERNEATH HAVE RUSTED AWAY. EVERYTHING IS RUSTED AND IT SCARES ME TO DEATH TO BE DRIVING IT NOW THAT I HAVE SEEN THE UNDERCARRIAGE. I HAVE MANY PHOTOS TO SUBMIT FOR PROOF OF THE PROBLEM.APPARENTLY THIS CAR HAS BEEN RUSTING FOR SOME TIME AND I HAVE NEVER NOTICED IT. I BOUGHT IT BRAND NEW IN SEPTEMBER OF 1999. IT HAS PREMATURELY RUSTED OUT UNLIKE MOST VEHICLES WHICH LAST FOR MANY YEARS. I WAS INFORMED BY MY BROTHER THIS PAST SUMMER AND HE TOLD ME THAT THERE WAS A SERVICE CAMPAIGN ON THE FUEL TANK BUT WHEN I TOOK IT TO THE DEALER, THEY SAID IT WAS PAST THE 10 YEAR MARK BY A FEW MONTHS AND THEY WOULDN'T DO ANYTHING ABOUT IT. I HAVE BEEN IN CONTACT WITH KIA TO GATHER INFORMATION ABOUT RECALLS AND SERVICE CAMPAIGN NOTICES OF WHICH I ONLY WAS NOTIFIED ABOUT 3 OR 4 OF THEM SHORTLY AFTER I PURCHASED IT.
NHTSA complaint #10349703 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 115,000 milesGlen Gardner, NJ
STRUCTURE:FRAME AND MEMBERS
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1999 KIA SPORTAGE. WHEN THE MECHANIC WAS CHANGING THE OIL HE NOTIFIED THE CONTACT THAT THE REAR FRAME HAD DECAYED. THE VEHICLE WAS DRIVEABLE BUT HAD NOT BEEN REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGES WERE 115,000. UPDATED 02/10/11 *BF UPDATED 03/11/11
NHTSA complaint #10341537 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.