1998 KIA SPORTAGE
5 recalls, 558 complaints - 17 TSBs
09E025000 May 11, 2009
EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
Defect Description
DOPE, INC. IS RECALLING 42,540 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES... Read more
Consequence
DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
Remedy
DOPE, INC. WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 28, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DOPE, INC. AT 1-626-272-1798.
09E012000 Apr 7, 2009
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Defect Description
SABERSPORT IS RECALLING 16,270 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES... Read more
Consequence
DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
Remedy
SABERSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 11, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SABERSPORT AT 1-909-598-7589.
02V216000 Aug 16, 2002
SEAT BELTS:FRONT:BUCKLE ASSEMBLY
Defect Description
ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, THE SAFETY BELT BUCKLE MAY "FALSE LATCH" AND EXPOSE THE DRIVER TO UNRESTRAINED MOVEMENT DURING A CRASH.
Consequence
IN THE EVENT OF A CRASH, THE SEAT OCCUPANT MAY NOT BE PROPERLY RESTRAINED, INCREASING THE RISK OF PERSONAL INJURY.
Remedy
OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN DECEMBER 20, 2002. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT KIA AT 1-800-333-4542.
99V325000 Nov 19, 1999
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING
Defect Description
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES. THE WIRES CONNECTED TO THE C123 AND C124 CONNECTORS CAN BE PUT UNDER TENSION BY MOVEMENT OF THE ENGINE, THUS PULLING THE WIRES AND CONNECTORS, LOOSENING THEM AND RESULTING IN A LOSS OF CIRCUIT CONTINUITY.
Consequence
THIS CONDITION CAN CAUSE ENGINE STALLING, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
Remedy
DEALERS WILL INSTALL SPRING CLIPS TO LOCK THE CONNECTORS TOGETHER. IN ADDITION, THE DEALERS WILL BE INSTRUCTED TO SOLDER A SPLICE IN THE WIRE HARNESS.
98V222000 Sep 15, 1998
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
Defect Description
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES WITHOUT AN ANTI-LOCK BRAKING SYSTEM (ABS). THE STEERING INTERMEDIATE SHAFT COUPLING CAN CONTACT A HYDRAULIC BRAKE PIPE CAUSING FLUID LEAKAGE.
Consequence
THIS CONDITION CAN CAUSE A LOSS OF REAR BRAKE INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
Remedy
DEALERS WILL INSPECT AND, IF NECESSARY, INCREASE THE CLEARANCE BETWEEN THE BRAKE PIPE AND STEERING INTERMEDIATE SHAFT COUPLING.
Complaint Statistics
558 total complaints
31 crashes 7 fires 19 injuries
Top Reported Components
| Component | Complaints |
|---|---|
| ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE | 47 |
| UNKNOWN OR OTHER | 24 |
| SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS | 21 |
| POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:LEVER AND LINKAGE:COLUMN SHIFT | 18 |
| ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE | 16 |
| SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:DISC | 15 |
| POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION | 15 |
| SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP | 15 |
| EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER | 14 |
| VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL | 14 |
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Apr 24, 2017
Incident date: Apr 14, 2017
RIGHT REAR FRAME RUSTED THROUGH COMPLETELY STABLIZER RUSTED OFF FRAME
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Oct 10, 2015
Incident date: Oct 9, 2015
MY STEERING COLUMN DOESN'T LOCK WHEN I TURN OFF THE ENGINE. IT HAS ALSO STARTED FAILING TO START BUT WHEN WE JUMPSTART IT IT RESPONDS IMMEDIATELY. I HAVE LEARNED; THAT SOMETIMES IF I ROCK IT OR PUSH IT A FEW FEET IT WILL START RIGHT UP TOO. IT ACTS ALMOST LIKE A VAPOR LOCK BECAUSE THE ENGINE IS WA... Read more
STRUCTURE:BODY
Aug 14, 2014
Incident date: Aug 13, 2014
REAR FRAME RUST/ROT IS INCREDIBLY EXCESSIVE. NOTICED TODAY WHILE CHECKING TIRE PRESSURE. ENTIRE UNDERSIDE OF FRAME IS COMPLETELY RUSTED THROUGH. REAR CROSS MEMBER IN TERRIBLE SHAPE. VISIBLE DETERIORATION HAPPENED QUICKLY. PURCHASING THE CAR IN 2012 THERE WAS NO SIGN OF ROT ON THE FRAME. NOW I ... Read more
SUSPENSION
Aug 14, 2014
Incident date: Aug 13, 2014
REAR FRAME RUST/ROT IS INCREDIBLY EXCESSIVE. NOTICED TODAY WHILE CHECKING TIRE PRESSURE. ENTIRE UNDERSIDE OF FRAME IS COMPLETELY RUSTED THROUGH. REAR CROSS MEMBER IN TERRIBLE SHAPE. VISIBLE DETERIORATION HAPPENED QUICKLY. PURCHASING THE CAR IN 2012 THERE WAS NO SIGN OF ROT ON THE FRAME. NOW I ... Read more
SEAT BELTS
Jun 28, 2013
Incident date: Jun 10, 2013
I CANNOT FASTEN MY SEATBELT BECAUSE IT WILL NOT EXTEND. I WENT TO POWER KIA IN SALEM, OR AND THEY WILL NOT REPAIR IT UNLESS I PAY FOR REPAIRS. SEEING HOW THIS IS A PRODUCT DEFECT CAUSING A SAFETY ISSUE, I FEEL THE MANUFACTURE SHOULD BE RESPONSIBLE FOR THIS, ESPECIALLY BECAUSE IT IS THE LAW TO FASTE... Read more
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
May 31, 2013
Incident date: May 30, 2013
THIS IS A REPEAT OF CONFIRMATION NO. 10514519, BUT WITH "WAS THERE AN INJURY OR FATALITY? MARKED "YES" ABOVE. DRIVER AND PASSENGER SCALDED WITH BOILING RADIATOR FLUID WITH FOOT ON PEDAL, HAD TO KEEP FOOT ON PETAL TO GET OFF ROAD. ON MAY 30, 2013, AT APPROX. 4:30PM EDT, I WAS DRIVING MY 1998 KI... Read more
2 injured
STEERING
May 31, 2013
Incident date: May 30, 2013
DRIVER AND PASSENGER SCALDED WITH BOILING RADIATOR FLUID WITH FOOT ON PEDAL, HAD TO KEEP FOOT ON PETAL TO GET OFF ROAD ON MAY 30, 2013, AT APPROX. 4:30 PM EDT, I WAS DRIVING MY 1998 KIA SPORTAGE ON THE GARDEN STATE PARKWAY NORTH, JUST AFTER ENTERING THE HIGHWAY AT EXIT 98 IN WALL, NJ. THE AIR CO... Read more
2 injured
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
May 31, 2013
Incident date: May 30, 2013
DRIVER AND PASSENGER SCALDED WITH BOILING RADIATOR FLUID WITH FOOT ON PEDAL, HAD TO KEEP FOOT ON PETAL TO GET OFF ROAD ON MAY 30, 2013, AT APPROX. 4:30 PM EDT, I WAS DRIVING MY 1998 KIA SPORTAGE ON THE GARDEN STATE PARKWAY NORTH, JUST AFTER ENTERING THE HIGHWAY AT EXIT 98 IN WALL, NJ. THE AIR CO... Read more
2 injured
STEERING
May 31, 2013
Incident date: May 30, 2013
THIS IS A REPEAT OF CONFIRMATION NO. 10514519, BUT WITH "WAS THERE AN INJURY OR FATALITY? MARKED "YES" ABOVE. DRIVER AND PASSENGER SCALDED WITH BOILING RADIATOR FLUID WITH FOOT ON PEDAL, HAD TO KEEP FOOT ON PETAL TO GET OFF ROAD. ON MAY 30, 2013, AT APPROX. 4:30PM EDT, I WAS DRIVING MY 1998 KI... Read more
2 injured
ENGINE
May 31, 2013
Incident date: May 30, 2013
THIS IS A REPEAT OF CONFIRMATION NO. 10514519, BUT WITH "WAS THERE AN INJURY OR FATALITY? MARKED "YES" ABOVE. DRIVER AND PASSENGER SCALDED WITH BOILING RADIATOR FLUID WITH FOOT ON PEDAL, HAD TO KEEP FOOT ON PETAL TO GET OFF ROAD. ON MAY 30, 2013, AT APPROX. 4:30PM EDT, I WAS DRIVING MY 1998 KI... Read more
2 injured
ENGINE
May 31, 2013
Incident date: May 30, 2013
DRIVER AND PASSENGER SCALDED WITH BOILING RADIATOR FLUID WITH FOOT ON PEDAL, HAD TO KEEP FOOT ON PETAL TO GET OFF ROAD ON MAY 30, 2013, AT APPROX. 4:30 PM EDT, I WAS DRIVING MY 1998 KIA SPORTAGE ON THE GARDEN STATE PARKWAY NORTH, JUST AFTER ENTERING THE HIGHWAY AT EXIT 98 IN WALL, NJ. THE AIR CO... Read more
2 injured
STRUCTURE:BODY
May 13, 2013
Incident date: May 13, 2013
EXTREME CORROSION AT REAR OF FRAME WHERE AXLE IS SUPPORTED READY TO COLLAPSE AND WILL REQUIRE REMEDIATION TO PREVENT FRAME FAILURE. *TR
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
Oct 13, 2011
Incident date: Oct 12, 2011
FUEL TANK IS LEAKING, WIDESPREAD PROBLEM, KIA WILL ONLY REPLACE TANK IF THE LEAK IS ON THE VERY BOTTOM OF TANK. THEY ARE SAYING MINE IS LEAKING AT THE SEAM. I VERY DANGEROUS PROBLEM NO MATTER WHERE THE TANK IS LEAKING. I ONLY HOPE NOONE HAS A FIRE BECAUSE OF IT. I HAVE TO PAY THE EXTREMELY EXPENSIVE... Read more
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
May 23, 2011
Incident date: May 16, 2011
1998 KIA SPORTAGE A RECALL ABOUT THE WIRING HAS BEEN REPORTED I [XXX] HAS BEEN SUFFERING FOR TRANSPORTATION DUE TO THIS MALFUNCTION JUST NEED JUSTIFICATION A.S.A.P MY MAILING ADDRESS IS [XXX] MY PH. IS [XXX] ALSO [XXX]. THANK YOU AND HAVE A BLESSED DAY. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDO... Read more
Fire
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Jul 14, 2010
Incident date: Jun 28, 2010
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 KIA SPORTAGE. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE TRAVELING AT 25 MPH, THE VEHICLE BEGAN TO LOSE POWER. THE HOLD BUTTON ILLUMINATED ON THE DASHBOARD. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT WHERE AN UNKNOWN REPAIR WAS MADE TO THE VEHICLE. THE FAILURE PERSISTED. THE MECHANIC ADVISE... Read more
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Apr 3, 2010
Incident date: Apr 2, 2010
SWAY BAR HAD BROKEN OFF FROM HALF OF THE FRAME.IT WAS FOUND THE FRAME HAS ROTTED MOST OF THE WAY THROUGH IN THE BACKEND OF VEHICLE ON BOTH SIDES. I WAS TOLD THE BACK END COULD BREAK OFF FROM VEHICLE AT ANY MOMENT.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Nov 11, 2009
Incident date: Apr 10, 2008
I PURCHASED THIS CAR USED,IT STALLED ON ME IN THE MIDDLE OF THE ROAD. I HAVE BASICALLY HAD THE ENTIRE MOTOR REPLACED.I WENT TO TEST DRIVE AND IT DONE THE SAME THING. IT STALLED IN THE MIDDLE OF TRAFFIC. I SEARCHED FOR RECALLS AND CAME UP WITH ONE IN THE C123 AND C124 WIRE HARNESS. I BELIEVE THIS WAS... Read more
FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER:DELIVERY:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
Jul 22, 2007
Incident date: Jul 22, 2007
I OWN A 1998 KIA SPORTAGE 4WD. I HAVE ACCESS TO ALLDATA.COM. I HAVE RECENTLY PERFORMED SOME ENGINE WORK TO MY VEHICLE AND CAME ACROSS A RECALL THAT CAUSED ME SOME CONCERN. NUMBER: KT2006050901 IS LISTED AS A POSSIBLE CONCERN FOR "CERTAIN 1996 - 2002 SPORTAGE MODELS."I WOULD LIKE TO KNOW WHAT MAKES A... Read more
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
Jan 17, 2007
Incident date: Jul 28, 2006
I NOTICED A SMELL GAS NEAR THE PASSENGER DOOR AT THE REAR OF THE CAR. I LOOK UNDERNEATH AND THERE WAS A LEAK OF GAS UNDERNEATH. MY MECHANIC HAS REPLACED SOMETHING UNDER IT 2 X AND IT IS LEAKING AGAIN. *NM
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:EMISSION CONTROL:CRANKCASE (PCV)
Nov 17, 2006
Incident date: Nov 17, 2006
SAFETY RECALL. *JB
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Nov 17, 2006
Incident date: Nov 17, 2006
SAFETY RECALL. *JB
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY
Nov 14, 2006
Incident date: Nov 13, 2006
THE GAS TANK ON MY 1998 KIA SPORTAGE IS SERIOUSLY CORRODING. MY LOCAL GARAGE MECHANIC STATED THAT THIS IS A SERIOUS CONDITION AS IT COULD START LEAKING OR BREAK LOOSE FROM THE CAR. AS I UNDERSTAND THERE IS A NHTSA INVESTIGATION (EA06007) CURRENTLY BEING CONDUCTED. PLEASE INCLUDE ME INTO THE INVESTIG... Read more
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY
Jun 20, 2006
Incident date: Jun 19, 2006
STRONG ODOR OF GASOLINE IN AND AROUND THE CAR INDICATED A FUEL LEAK. WHEN INVESTIGATED THE LEAK WAS FOUND COMING FROM THE FUEL TANK UNDERNEATH THE CENTER PART OF THE VEHICLE. APPEARS TO BE DUE TO CORROSION OF THE TANK. WE ARE STILL CHECKING ON REPLACEMENT FUEL TANKS FOR REPLACEMENT AND ARE NOT AB... Read more
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Apr 27, 2006
Incident date: Apr 27, 2006
I HAVE NOT RECEIVED THE 3 MOST RECENT RECALLS FOR MY VEHICLE FROM THE MANUFACTURER WHICH GIVES ME GREAT CONCERN IN REGARDS TO MYSELF AND MY PASSENGER'S SAFETY. PLEASE TELL ME WHAT I NEED TO DO NEXT TO FIX THIS. *JB
TIRES
Apr 7, 2006
Incident date: Jan 2, 2006
DT*: THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING ON THE FREEWAY AT 65 MPH. THE PASSENGER REAR TIRE BLEW OUT. THE TIRE DEALERSHIP DETERMINED THE TIRE FAILED DUE TO TREAD SEPARATION. THE TIRE MANUFACTURER IS KUMHO. THE SIZE OF THE TIRE IS: 20575R15. *AK UPDATED 05/03/06
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP
Dec 4, 2005
Incident date: Dec 2, 2005
THE ABS ON MY VEHICLE FAILS INTERMITTENTLY. I HAVE TAKEN IT TO THE DEALER. THE DEALER HAS RUN DIAGNOSTICS AND TOLD ME THAT THERE IS NO PROBLEM, DESPITE THE FACT THAT THE ABS LIGHT IS ILLUMINATED. THE DEALER CALLED KIA USA, WHO COULD OFFER NO HELP. BECAUSE THE ABS IS NOT ALWAYS RELIABLE, THE BRAK... Read more
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:FUEL INJECTION SYSTEM
Nov 3, 2005
Incident date: Jan 1, 2005
DT: THE CONTACT STATED THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT ILLUMINATED. A DIAGNOSTIC TEST INDICATED IT WAS THE MAXIMUM AIRFLOW UNIT. THE VEHICLE HESITATED WHILE DRIVING AT ANY SPEED. THE VEHICLE HAS NOT BEEN INSPECTED BY A DEALER TO DETERMINE THE EXACT PROBLEM WITH THE VEHICLE. *AK UPDATED 12/7/2005. *... Read more
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Aug 16, 2005
Incident date: Aug 14, 2005
I DROVE OUR SUV ABOUT 2 MILES PARKED IT IN THE GARAGE AND NOTICED A BURNING SMELL. I NOTICED THE CLOCK,RADIO, DOOR LOCKS, AND PASSENGER WINDOW WERE NOT WORKING. I DROVE THE CAR THE NEXT DAY FOR A SHORT DISTANCE TO WORK. THAN CALLED KIA TALKED TO A JANSON COOK WHO CHECKED MY VEHICLE FOR RECALL ON TH... Read more
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:SENSOR/CONTROL MODULE
Apr 19, 2005
Incident date: Apr 18, 2005
AIR BAG LIGHT ILLUMINATED. DIAGNOSTICS REVEALED AIRBAG CONTROL MODULE FAILURE.*AK
POWER TRAIN:TRANSFER CASE (4-WHEEL DRIVE)
Jan 23, 2005
Incident date: Jan 21, 2005
THE 4WD SYSTEM ON THE 98 KIA SPORTAGE IS UNRELIABLE. THE VACUUM SYSTEM, WHICH ACTUATES THE FRONT HUBS DOES NOT WORK. I HAVE HAD THE VEHICLE IN FOR THIS PROBLEM EVERY WINTER SINCE I PURCHASED THE VEHICLE IN 1998. THE DEALERS REPAIR LASTS A WEEK OR SO AND THEN FAILS. UNEXPECTED LACK OF 4WD IS A SA... Read more
POWER TRAIN:AXLE HUBS
Dec 26, 2004
Incident date: Dec 4, 2004
DRIVING UPHILL IN ONE INCH OF SNOW THE AXEL HUBS ON THE FRONT OF VEHICLE DID NOT ENGAGE CAUSING THE LOSS OF CONTROL OF THE STEERING, SLIDING SIDEWAYS AND BACKWARDS TO A STOP. THE PARTS REPLACED WERE AS FOLLOWS: AXEL HUB SEALS, AXEL BEARINGS, UPPER BALL JOINT, VACUUM LINE AND REALIGNMENT OF FRONT E... Read more
Crash
SUSPENSION:FRONT:CONTROL ARM:UPPER BALL JOINT
Dec 26, 2004
Incident date: Dec 4, 2004
DRIVING UPHILL IN ONE INCH OF SNOW THE AXEL HUBS ON THE FRONT OF VEHICLE DID NOT ENGAGE CAUSING THE LOSS OF CONTROL OF THE STEERING, SLIDING SIDEWAYS AND BACKWARDS TO A STOP. THE PARTS REPLACED WERE AS FOLLOWS: AXEL HUB SEALS, AXEL BEARINGS, UPPER BALL JOINT, VACUUM LINE AND REALIGNMENT OF FRONT E... Read more
Crash
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:COOLING UNIT AND LINES
Dec 1, 2004
Incident date: Nov 20, 2003
VEHICLE HAD FOUR RECALLS AND AIRBAG LIGHT KEPT FLASHING. RECALLS WERE ON BRAKE HOSES, FRONT BUCKLE ASSEMBLY, ELECTRICAL WIRING AND MISSING LABEL. *LA WHILE DRIVING THE VEHICLE AIR BAG LIGHT BEGAN TO FLASH. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER AND THE TECHNICIAN INDICATED THAT THE AIR BAG MODULE ... Read more
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING
Dec 1, 2004
Incident date: Nov 20, 2003
VEHICLE HAD FOUR RECALLS AND AIRBAG LIGHT KEPT FLASHING. RECALLS WERE ON BRAKE HOSES, FRONT BUCKLE ASSEMBLY, ELECTRICAL WIRING AND MISSING LABEL. *LA WHILE DRIVING THE VEHICLE AIR BAG LIGHT BEGAN TO FLASH. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER AND THE TECHNICIAN INDICATED THAT THE AIR BAG MODULE ... Read more
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:SENSOR/CONTROL MODULE
Dec 1, 2004
Incident date: Nov 20, 2003
VEHICLE HAD FOUR RECALLS AND AIRBAG LIGHT KEPT FLASHING. RECALLS WERE ON BRAKE HOSES, FRONT BUCKLE ASSEMBLY, ELECTRICAL WIRING AND MISSING LABEL. *LA WHILE DRIVING THE VEHICLE AIR BAG LIGHT BEGAN TO FLASH. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER AND THE TECHNICIAN INDICATED THAT THE AIR BAG MODULE ... Read more
SUSPENSION:REAR:SPRINGS
Sep 17, 2004
Incident date: Sep 16, 2004
WHILE DRIVING SPRING FROM THE LEFT REAR DRIVER SIDE WHEEL CAME OFF. VEHICLE WAS TOWED.*AK
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
Sep 16, 2004
Incident date: Jan 16, 2002
CONSUMER HAS A CONCERN THAT THE SPEEDOMETER NEEDLE WOULD NOT REGISTER THE PROPER SPEED. THE NEEDLE WOULD MOVE BACK AND FORTH WHILE DRIVING. PLEASE PROVIDE ANY FURTHER INFORMATION. *JP
EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER
Sep 15, 2004
Incident date: Apr 18, 2003
PROBLEMS WITH HORN, STEERING WHEEL AND AIR CONDITIONER ON 1998 KIA SPORTAGE.*MR THE VEHICLE DASH LIGHTS ALSO FAILED INTERMITTENTLY. *NM
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Sep 15, 2004
Incident date: Apr 18, 2003
PROBLEMS WITH HORN, STEERING WHEEL AND AIR CONDITIONER ON 1998 KIA SPORTAGE.*MR THE VEHICLE DASH LIGHTS ALSO FAILED INTERMITTENTLY. *NM
STEERING
Sep 15, 2004
Incident date: Apr 18, 2003
PROBLEMS WITH HORN, STEERING WHEEL AND AIR CONDITIONER ON 1998 KIA SPORTAGE.*MR THE VEHICLE DASH LIGHTS ALSO FAILED INTERMITTENTLY. *NM
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:HORN
Sep 15, 2004
Incident date: Apr 18, 2003
PROBLEMS WITH HORN, STEERING WHEEL AND AIR CONDITIONER ON 1998 KIA SPORTAGE.*MR THE VEHICLE DASH LIGHTS ALSO FAILED INTERMITTENTLY. *NM
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:FUEL INJECTION SYSTEM
Jul 19, 2004
Incident date: Sep 1, 2003
ENGINE CONNECTORS C144 (THROTTLE POSITION SENSOR), C129 (MASS AIR FLOW SENSOR) AND C146 (IDLE SPEED ACTUATOR) LOSE CIRCUIT CONTINUITY WITH MOVEMENT OF THE ENGINE CAUSING ENGINE HESITATION, LOSS OF POWER AND FALSE "CHECK ENGINE LIGHT " INDICATION ON THE INSTRUMENT PANEL. WIGGLING THE APPROPRIATE CONN... Read more
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
Jul 8, 2004
Incident date: Jul 8, 2004
CONSUMER STATED THAT WHEN SHE ATTEMPTED TO START VEHICLE IT WOULD NOT START. SHE THEN SMELLED A STRONG GAS ODOR. CONSUMER LOOKED UNDER THE HOOD AND DISCOVERED THAT THE GAS LINE POPPED OFF, AND GAS WAS SPILLING ALL OVER THE ENGINE.. SHE HAD THE VEHICLE TOWED TO THE DEALER, AND THEY DID NOT KNO... Read more
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING
May 27, 2004
Incident date: May 19, 2004
OWNER SAYS THAT THE VEHICLE HAD AN ELECTRICAL FIRE WHICH DAMAGED THE WIRE HARNESS. PLEASE PROVIDE ANY ADDITIONAL INFORMATION. *NM
Fire
STEERING:LINKAGES:TIE ROD ASSEMBLY
May 24, 2004
Incident date: May 24, 2004
AFTER TURNING A CORNER AND ATTEMPTING TO PARK, THE CONSUMER FELT THAT THE WHEEL WAS SLIPPING. AFTER GOING INTO A STORE AND COMING BACK OUT, THE CONSUMER NOTICED THE PASSENGER SIDE FRONT WHEEL BECAME DISCONNECTED. DEALER EXAMINED THE PROBLEM AND FOUND THAT THE TIE RODS NEEDED TO BE REPAIRED. *AK ... Read more
SUSPENSION:FRONT:WHEEL BEARING
Mar 22, 2004
Incident date: Mar 22, 2004
WHILE DRIVING 20 MPH AND WHEN APPLYING THE BRAKES A THUMPING NOISE WAS HEARD COMING FROM THE PASSENGER SIDE WHEEL.CONSUMER WAS ABLE TO DRIVE THE VEHICLE TO THE DEALER FOR INSPECTION, AND MECHANIC REPLACED WHEEL BEARING. *AK
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP
Mar 22, 2004
Incident date: Mar 22, 2004
WHILE DRIVING 20 MPH AND WHEN APPLYING THE BRAKES A THUMPING NOISE WAS HEARD COMING FROM THE PASSENGER SIDE WHEEL.CONSUMER WAS ABLE TO DRIVE THE VEHICLE TO THE DEALER FOR INSPECTION, AND MECHANIC REPLACED WHEEL BEARING. *AK
POWER TRAIN
Jan 9, 2004
THE VEHICLES 4-WHEEL DRIVE ENGAGED SOMETIMES THEN POPPED OUT CAUSING A LOUD NOISE. THE CONSUMER FOUND OUT ABOUT A HUB SEAL RECALL AND INQUIRED ABOUT IT AT THE DEALER . THE DEALER INDICATED THAT THE RECALL WAS PERFORMED BY THE MANUFACTURER. THE CONSUMER LOOKED UNDER THE HOOD FOR A RED MARK ON THE V... Read more
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:TAILGATE:LATCH
Dec 10, 2003
Incident date: Dec 2, 2003
1998 KIA SPORTAGE- TAIL GATE CABLE IS FREEZING UP, CALLED KIA WHICH HAS A RECALL ON THIS PART BUT NO ON MY VIN. HAVING A PROBLEM OPENING TAIL GATE. *LA
FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER
Dec 10, 2003
Incident date: Dec 8, 2003
GAS PUMP DOOR, INSIDE CAR RELEASE NOT WORKING CORRECTLY. MAJOR PAIN WHEN TRYING TO GET GAS. HAS BEEN AN ON GOING PROBLEM. *LA
Showing 50 of 558 complaints.
Technical Service Bulletins, 1998 KIA SPORTAGE
17 manufacturer communications from 11 unique bulletins. TSBs describe known problems and recommended fixes from the manufacturer.
Most Affected Components
| Component | Bulletins |
|---|---|
| 151400 SEAT BELTS:FRONT:BUCKLE ASSEMBLY | 2 |
| 356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY | 2 |
| 162000 STRUCTURE:BODY | 1 |
| 063140 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:EMISSION CONTROL:CATALYTIC CONVERTOR | 1 |
| 107000 POWER TRAIN:AXLE HUBS | 1 |
| 092100 FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP | 1 |
| 071100 FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY | 1 |
| 053000 PARKING BRAKE:INDICATOR LIGHT | 1 |
TSB_BOD055_R1
Sep 13, 2021
160000 STRUCTURE
TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: INFORMATION FOR HEADLAMP CONDENSATION AND MOISTURE - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. New/revised sections of this bulletin are indicated by a black bar in the margin area. This b
TSB_BOD055_R1
Sep 13, 2021
120000 EXTERIOR LIGHTING
TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: INFORMATION FOR HEADLAMP CONDENSATION AND MOISTURE - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. New/revised sections of this bulletin are indicated by a black bar in the margin area. This b
PS539
Mar 2, 2018
060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
PITSTOP - ENGINE COMPONENT RE-USE GUIDELINES - In general, parts and components removed during engine repairs should be considered serviceable, and should be thoroughly cleaned and transferred to the new engine.
TSB-GEN085R1
Jan 18, 2017
356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY
TSB: MANDATORY REPLACEMENT OF LOCKING/SECURITY HARDWARE - By design, certain fasteners, which are designed to lock into place once fully attached, are utilized in various Kia models and are strictly intended for ?one time use.? Some example
TSB-GEN085R1
Jan 18, 2017
354000 EQUIPMENT:MECHANICAL
TSB: MANDATORY REPLACEMENT OF LOCKING/SECURITY HARDWARE - By design, certain fasteners, which are designed to lock into place once fully attached, are utilized in various Kia models and are strictly intended for ?one time use.? Some example
TSB-GEN085
Nov 4, 2016
356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY
TSB: MANDATORY REPLACEMENT OF LOCKING/SECURITY HARDWARE - By design, certain fasteners utilized in various Kia models are strictly intended for ?one time use?. Though not limited to the following, some examples are: axle shaft nuts with sta
TSB-GEN085
Nov 4, 2016
170000 LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
TSB: MANDATORY REPLACEMENT OF LOCKING/SECURITY HARDWARE - By design, certain fasteners utilized in various Kia models are strictly intended for ?one time use?. Though not limited to the following, some examples are: axle shaft nuts with sta
KT-2008082201
Aug 28, 2008
123000 EXTERIOR LIGHTING:TAIL LIGHTS
KIA: ALL MODELS. ARTICLE PROVIDES INFORMATION RELATING TO THE IMPROVED DURABILITY OF BULB LIFE FOR REAR COMBINATION BULB; REAR STOP LAMP/TAIL LAMP BULB UTILIZED ON MULTIPLE KIA MODELS. *PE
KT-2008082201
Aug 28, 2008
125000 EXTERIOR LIGHTING:BRAKE LIGHTS
KIA: ALL MODELS. ARTICLE PROVIDES INFORMATION RELATING TO THE IMPROVED DURABILITY OF BULB LIFE FOR REAR COMBINATION BULB; REAR STOP LAMP/TAIL LAMP BULB UTILIZED ON MULTIPLE KIA MODELS. *PE
KT-2008082201
Aug 28, 2008
053000 PARKING BRAKE:INDICATOR LIGHT
KIA: ALL MODELS. ARTICLE PROVIDES INFORMATION RELATING TO THE IMPROVED DURABILITY OF BULB LIFE FOR REAR COMBINATION BULB; REAR STOP LAMP/TAIL LAMP BULB UTILIZED ON MULTIPLE KIA MODELS. *PE
014
Jan 1, 2008
071100 FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY
FUEL TANK REPLACEMENT UNDER REPAIR BENEFIT PROGRAM. ON CERTAIN 1997-2000 SPORTAGES. *NJ
76
Jan 1, 2004
092100 FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
FUEL PUMP RELAYS & EMISSIONS FAILURES. KIA TECHNICIAN TIMES. *TT
027
Dec 6, 2002
151400 SEAT BELTS:FRONT:BUCKLE ASSEMBLY
RECALL CAMPAIGN 027 TO REPLACE FRONT SEAT BELT BUCKLES. NOTIFICATION LETTER TO DEALERS. *TT
027
Dec 1, 2002
151400 SEAT BELTS:FRONT:BUCKLE ASSEMBLY
THIS BULLETIN PROVIDED INFORMATION RELATED TO RECALL CAMPAIGN 027 TO REPLACE THE FRONT SEAT BELT BUCKLES. *TT
007R
Mar 1, 2001
107000 POWER TRAIN:AXLE HUBS
THIS BULLETIN PROVIDES INFORMATION ON A CHANGE TO THE SPORTAGE 4WD HUB SEALS. *TT
016
Sep 1, 2000
063140 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:EMISSION CONTROL:CATALYTIC CONVERTOR
EMISSIONS RECALL CAMPAIGN: MANIFOLD CATALYTIC CONVERTER REPLACEMENT. *TT
98020100498
Jun 17, 1998
162000 STRUCTURE:BODY
PROVIDED INFORMATION RELATED TO THE KIA MOTORS AMERICA TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE CENTER AND THE TECH LINE WORKSHEET. *YC
NHTSA Safety Investigations, KIA SPORTAGE
Investigations opened by NHTSA into potential safety defects. These are separate from recalls and may or may not result in a recall.
EA07001
Opened: Jan 22, 2007 , Closed: Apr 16, 2007
FAN BLADE CRACKING/SEPARATION
KIA MOTORS AMERICA, INC. (KIA) HAS IDENTIFIED A DEFECT IN THE PLASTIC ENGINE COOLING FAN IN THE SUBJECT VEHICLES AND WILL CONDUCT A SAFETY RECALL.KIA'S DEFECT REPORT STATES, ...HEAT GENERATED BY THE ENGINE CAUSES REPEATED BENDING DEFORMATION OF THE POLYPROPYLENE COOLING FAN...INITIATING CRACKS IN TH... Read more
PE06042
Opened: Sep 21, 2006 , Closed: Jan 22, 2007
FAN BLADE CRACKING/SEPARATION
THE INVESTIGATION OF ENGINE COOLING FANS IN THE SUBJECT VEHICLES WAS OPENED ON SEPTEMBER 21, 2006 AS PE06-042.THE BASIS FOR OPENING WAS 10 CONSUMER REPORTS ALLEGING FAN BLADE CRACKING AND BLADE SEPARATION.SIX OF THE REPORTS INDICATED THE SEPARATED FAN BLADES CAUSED DAMAGE TO OTHER ENGINE COMPARTMENT... Read more
EA06007
Opened: May 9, 2006 , Closed: Nov 30, 2007
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... Read more
PE06002
Opened: Jan 4, 2006 , Closed: May 9, 2006
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 AB... Read more
RQ02013
Opened: Oct 18, 2002 , Closed: Sep 2, 2003
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... Read more
DP02006
Opened: Jun 5, 2002 , Closed: Sep 23, 2002
VEHICLE ROLLOVER
There is no summary currently available
PE02002
Opened: Jan 9, 2002 , Closed: Aug 7, 2002
WINDSHIELD WIPER
SQ99021
Opened: Jun 30, 1999 , Closed: Feb 2, 2000
CHECK ENGINE LIGHT STAYS ON
A monthly Technical Times published by Kia and distributed to dealer technicians identifying a wiring harness problem that could cause connectors C123 and C124 to pull apart slightly during engine load changes.This could lead to erratic or tempory loss
KIA SPORTAGE - All Years Overview
Complete safety history for the KIA SPORTAGE across all model years (1995, 2026).
87
Total Recalls
6,818
Total Complaints
8
Investigations
437
Reported Crashes
258
Reported Fires
3
Reported Deaths
KIA SPORTAGE - Year by Year
Compare recalls and complaints across model years. Click any year to see full details.
| Year | Recalls | Complaints | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | 1 | 43 | View |
| 2025 | 1 | 87 | View |
| 2024 | 3 | 101 | View |
| 2023 | 6 | 314 | View |
| 2022 | 1 | 68 | View |
| 2021 | 2 | 62 | View |
| 2020 | 2 | 206 | View |
| 2019 | 2 | 102 | View |
| 2018 | 3 | 229 | View |
| 2017 | 4 | 561 | View |
| 2016 | 2 | 183 | View |
| 2015 | 2 | 195 | View |
| 2014 | 3 | 154 | View |
| 2013 | 3 | 449 | View |
| 2012 | 5 | 454 | View |
| 2011 | 6 | 264 | View |
| 2010 | 2 | 28 | View |
| 2009 | 3 | 120 | View |
| 2008 | 3 | 138 | View |
| 2007 | 2 | 113 | View |
| 2006 | 1 | 169 | View |
| 2005 | 3 | 93 | View |
| 2003 | 0 | 4 | View |
| 2002 | 3 | 321 | View |
| 2001 | 2 | 354 | View |
| 2000 | 4 | 462 | View |
| 1999 | 5 | 493 | View |
| 1998 (current) | 5 | 558 | |
| 1997 | 3 | 299 | View |
| 1996 | 3 | 98 | View |
| 1995 | 2 | 88 | View |