2002 KIA SPORTAGE

3 recalls, 321 complaints - 16 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.
42,540 vehicles affected
Manufacturer: DOPE, INC.
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.
16,270 vehicles affected
Manufacturer: SABERSPORT
07V161000 Apr 16, 2007
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:COOLING SYSTEM:FAN
Defect Description
ON CERTAIN VEHICLES, THE HEAT GENERATED BY THE ENGINE CAUSES REPEATED BENDING DEFORMATION OF THE POLYPROPYLENE COOLING FAN INCLUDING ITS RETAINING RING, WHICH STRESSES THE POLYPROPYLENE THEREBY INITIATING CRACKING OF THE BLADES. THE CENTRIFUGAL FORCES GENERATED BY THE ROTATION OF THE BLADES CAN CAU... Read more
Consequence
SEPARATION OF THE FAN BLADE(S) CAN CREATE A RISK OF PERSONAL INJURY.
Remedy
DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE ENGINE COOLING FAN WITH A FAN MADE OF IMPROVED MATERIAL. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JUNE 11, 2007. OWNERS MAY CONTACT KIA AT 1-800-333-4542.
35,090 vehicles affected
Manufacturer: KIA MOTORS AMERICA, INC.

Complaint Statistics

321 total complaints 19 crashes 7 fires 11 injuries

Top Reported Components

ComponentComplaints
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE35
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:COOLING SYSTEM:FAN22
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM20
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM12
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING12
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE12
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:COOLING SYSTEM11
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:DISC:ROTOR9
AIR BAGS9
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION8
STRUCTURE:BODY Jul 27, 2017
Incident date: Oct 1, 2016
WE HAVE RELIGIOUSLY CLEANED OUR 2002 SPORTAGE WITH UNDER WASHING TO KEEP UNDER CARRIAGE AS CLEAN AS POSSIBLE...YET WE ARE TOLD THE FRAME IS TOO RUSTED, WITH HOLES AND CANNOT BE INSPECTED OR DRIVEN SAFELY...WE HAVE LESS THAN 90,000 MILES ON IT. WHY HASN'T THERE BEEN A SAFETY RECALL ON THIS FRAME ISS... Read more
STRUCTURE:BODY Jul 17, 2017
Incident date: Jun 4, 2017
I PURCHASED A 2002 KIA SPORTAGE IN FEBRUARY OF 2017, AFTER DRIVING IT FOR A COUPLE MONTHS IT ALL THE SUDDEN STARTED ROCKING SIDE TO SIDE UNCONTROLLABLY WHILE DRIVING. WHEN LOOKING AT THE CAR WE NOTICED THE WHOLE FRAME IS RUSTED AND FALLING APART. THIS IS A HUGE SAFETY PROBLEM, ESPECIALLY WHEN IT WAS... Read more
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM Apr 23, 2017
Incident date: Jan 13, 2010
FOR THE PAST 3 YEARS WHEN GOING TO THE GAS STATION TO REFUEL THE GAS TANK, WITH THE CAR STOPPED AND THE ENGINE OFF, GAS SUDDENLY SPURTS OUT THE GAS TANK AND SPLASHES ONTO ME AND MY CLOTHING. I HAVE CALLED MY KIA DEALER, BUT THEY SAY THERE IS NO RECALL FOR THIS. THERE ARE NUMEROUS COMPLAINTS POSTED... Read more
SEAT BELTS Mar 8, 2017
Incident date: Aug 1, 2016
DRIVER SIDE AND FRONT PASSENGER SHOULDER BELTS ARE FRAYED WHICH MAKES THEM UNABLE TO STAY SECURE. IT WON'T STOP UPPER BODY MOVEMENT WHEN BRAKES ARE APPLIED QUICKLY. DRIVER SIDE REAR PASSENGER WINDOW WON'T GO DOWN AND MOTOR IN DOOR STILL MAKES THE NOISE LIKE ITS WANTS TO WORK BUT DOES NOT. UNABLE... Read more
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM Mar 8, 2017
Incident date: Aug 1, 2016
DRIVER SIDE AND FRONT PASSENGER SHOULDER BELTS ARE FRAYED WHICH MAKES THEM UNABLE TO STAY SECURE. IT WON'T STOP UPPER BODY MOVEMENT WHEN BRAKES ARE APPLIED QUICKLY. DRIVER SIDE REAR PASSENGER WINDOW WON'T GO DOWN AND MOTOR IN DOOR STILL MAKES THE NOISE LIKE ITS WANTS TO WORK BUT DOES NOT. UNABLE... Read more
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM Mar 8, 2017
Incident date: Aug 1, 2016
DRIVER SIDE AND FRONT PASSENGER SHOULDER BELTS ARE FRAYED WHICH MAKES THEM UNABLE TO STAY SECURE. IT WON'T STOP UPPER BODY MOVEMENT WHEN BRAKES ARE APPLIED QUICKLY. DRIVER SIDE REAR PASSENGER WINDOW WON'T GO DOWN AND MOTOR IN DOOR STILL MAKES THE NOISE LIKE ITS WANTS TO WORK BUT DOES NOT. UNABLE... Read more
UNKNOWN OR OTHER Feb 8, 2017
Incident date: Dec 15, 2015
WHEN THE VEHICLE WAS HIT WHILE PARKED THE BUMPER WAS DESTROYED THE AIRBAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. THE TUNE SIGNALS DO NOT WORK, THE FUSES BLOW EVEYTIME THEY ARE REPLACED, THE HAZZARD SIGNAL BLOWS ALL THE FUSES, THERE IS A RECALL ON BEFORE THIS YEAR AND SOME AFTER, BUT NOT THIS ONE. GAS FUMES INSIDE THE V... Read more
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM Feb 8, 2017
Incident date: Dec 15, 2015
WHEN THE VEHICLE WAS HIT WHILE PARKED THE BUMPER WAS DESTROYED THE AIRBAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. THE TUNE SIGNALS DO NOT WORK, THE FUSES BLOW EVEYTIME THEY ARE REPLACED, THE HAZZARD SIGNAL BLOWS ALL THE FUSES, THERE IS A RECALL ON BEFORE THIS YEAR AND SOME AFTER, BUT NOT THIS ONE. GAS FUMES INSIDE THE V... Read more
ENGINE Feb 8, 2017
Incident date: Dec 15, 2015
WHEN THE VEHICLE WAS HIT WHILE PARKED THE BUMPER WAS DESTROYED THE AIRBAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. THE TUNE SIGNALS DO NOT WORK, THE FUSES BLOW EVEYTIME THEY ARE REPLACED, THE HAZZARD SIGNAL BLOWS ALL THE FUSES, THERE IS A RECALL ON BEFORE THIS YEAR AND SOME AFTER, BUT NOT THIS ONE. GAS FUMES INSIDE THE V... Read more
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM Aug 25, 2016
Incident date: Aug 4, 2016
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 KIA SPORTAGE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE EMITTED CARBON MONOXIDE AND CAUSED THE CONTACT TO FALL SLEEP. AS A RESULT, THE CONTACT LOST CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE AND CRASHED INTO A CANAL. THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC. TH... Read more
Crash 1 injured
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM Jul 6, 2016
Incident date: Jul 4, 2016
TAKATA RECALL I PURCHASED THIS CAR FOR MY GRANDDAUGHTER ON 6-6-2016 IT HAS ALL THE SYMPTOMS OF KIA'S RECALL # CS-048 THE CAR IS A 2002 KIA SPORTAGE VIN [XXX] WITH 87K MILES AND ON JULY 4TH SHE STOPPED FOR A LIGHT AND THE CAR STARTED TO RUN ROUGH AND THAN STOP RUNNING, SHE LOOKED OUT THE WINDOW A... Read more
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM Jun 26, 2016
Incident date: May 1, 2016
"TAKATA RECALL" NOTHING NEW, SAME AS THIS AND MANY OTHER COMPLAINTS ... COMPONENT(S): FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE FUMES,AIR BAGS LIGHT STAYS ON, HOLD LIGHT STAYS ON, RUST UNDERNEATH THE CAR,WINDOWS DONT WORK, ONLY BACK LEFT DOOR OPENS, AC DONT WORK, WILL RUN HOT IF ON. CONSUMER LOCATION: CALIFORNIA ... Read more
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM Jun 26, 2016
Incident date: May 1, 2016
"TAKATA RECALL" NOTHING NEW, SAME AS THIS AND MANY OTHER COMPLAINTS ... COMPONENT(S): FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE FUMES,AIR BAGS LIGHT STAYS ON, HOLD LIGHT STAYS ON, RUST UNDERNEATH THE CAR,WINDOWS DONT WORK, ONLY BACK LEFT DOOR OPENS, AC DONT WORK, WILL RUN HOT IF ON. CONSUMER LOCATION: CALIFORNIA ... Read more
AIR BAGS Jun 26, 2016
Incident date: May 1, 2016
"TAKATA RECALL" NOTHING NEW, SAME AS THIS AND MANY OTHER COMPLAINTS ... COMPONENT(S): FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE FUMES,AIR BAGS LIGHT STAYS ON, HOLD LIGHT STAYS ON, RUST UNDERNEATH THE CAR,WINDOWS DONT WORK, ONLY BACK LEFT DOOR OPENS, AC DONT WORK, WILL RUN HOT IF ON. CONSUMER LOCATION: CALIFORNIA ... Read more
SUSPENSION May 9, 2016
Incident date: May 6, 2016
REAR SECTION OF VEHICLE FRAME IS ROTTED BEYOND A SAFE CONDITION TO CONTINUE USE. REAR SUSPENSION MOUNT POINTS ARE CRUMBLING AND FALLING OFF. VEHICLE HAS 38,000 MILES. VEHICLE ALWAYS PARKED ON PAVEMENT OR CONCRETE AND USED AS A PRIMARY VEHICLE FOR AN OLDER FEMALE. VEHICLE USED VERY LITTLE DURING WINT... Read more
SUSPENSION Feb 8, 2016
Incident date: Jan 29, 2016
I BOUGHT A CAR LAST WEEK FROM A PRIVATE SELLER, AND IT HAS A GAS LEAK COMING FROM THE GAS TANK AREA. I HAVE NOT TAKEN IT IN YET TO A MECHANIC TO HAVE IT CHECKED OUT. THE SELLER HAD REPLACED THE FILLER HOSE, AND HAD SAID THE PREVIOUS OWNER HAD REPLACED THE GAS TANK, SO HE SAID THERE SHOULDN'T HAVE ... Read more
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM Feb 8, 2016
Incident date: Jan 29, 2016
I BOUGHT A CAR LAST WEEK FROM A PRIVATE SELLER, AND IT HAS A GAS LEAK COMING FROM THE GAS TANK AREA. I HAVE NOT TAKEN IT IN YET TO A MECHANIC TO HAVE IT CHECKED OUT. THE SELLER HAD REPLACED THE FILLER HOSE, AND HAD SAID THE PREVIOUS OWNER HAD REPLACED THE GAS TANK, SO HE SAID THERE SHOULDN'T HAVE ... Read more
AIR BAGS Feb 8, 2016
Incident date: Jan 29, 2016
I BOUGHT A CAR LAST WEEK FROM A PRIVATE SELLER, AND IT HAS A GAS LEAK COMING FROM THE GAS TANK AREA. I HAVE NOT TAKEN IT IN YET TO A MECHANIC TO HAVE IT CHECKED OUT. THE SELLER HAD REPLACED THE FILLER HOSE, AND HAD SAID THE PREVIOUS OWNER HAD REPLACED THE GAS TANK, SO HE SAID THERE SHOULDN'T HAVE ... Read more
SERVICE BRAKES Sep 30, 2015
Incident date: Sep 18, 2015
MY CAR HAS RUSTED SIGNIFICANTLY UNDERNEATH THE VEHICLE.. TO THE POINT WHERE IT APPEARS THAT IT RUSTED THE FRAME AND SHOCK ABSORBERS. MY CAR WAS MADE IN KOREA... WONDER IF THESE IMPORTS HAVE TO ADHERE TO THE SAME STANDARDS AS AMERICAN MADE CARS WITH UNDERBODY TREATMENT? ALSO THE FUEL BACKS-UP OUT... Read more
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM Sep 30, 2015
Incident date: Sep 18, 2015
MY CAR HAS RUSTED SIGNIFICANTLY UNDERNEATH THE VEHICLE.. TO THE POINT WHERE IT APPEARS THAT IT RUSTED THE FRAME AND SHOCK ABSORBERS. MY CAR WAS MADE IN KOREA... WONDER IF THESE IMPORTS HAVE TO ADHERE TO THE SAME STANDARDS AS AMERICAN MADE CARS WITH UNDERBODY TREATMENT? ALSO THE FUEL BACKS-UP OUT... Read more
STRUCTURE:BODY Sep 30, 2015
Incident date: Sep 18, 2015
MY CAR HAS RUSTED SIGNIFICANTLY UNDERNEATH THE VEHICLE.. TO THE POINT WHERE IT APPEARS THAT IT RUSTED THE FRAME AND SHOCK ABSORBERS. MY CAR WAS MADE IN KOREA... WONDER IF THESE IMPORTS HAVE TO ADHERE TO THE SAME STANDARDS AS AMERICAN MADE CARS WITH UNDERBODY TREATMENT? ALSO THE FUEL BACKS-UP OUT... Read more
SERVICE BRAKES Jul 17, 2015
Incident date: Jul 16, 2015
I WAS DRIVING HOME FROM WORK AND STARTED BRAKING FOR A RED LIGHT,MY BRAKES WERE COMPLETELY GONE,LUCKILY I WAS FAR ENOUGH FROM LIGHT & NOBODY WAS IN FRONT OF ME LIGHT TURNED GREEN,I WENT SLOW 20 MPH TO THE NEAREST FIRESTONE & COASTED IN.I THOUGHT I JUST NEEDED NEW BRAKES,THE MECHANICS PUT IT ON LIFT ... Read more
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM Jun 14, 2015
Incident date: Mar 15, 2007
AN OVERWHELMING SMELL OF GASOLINE INSIDE THE CABIN, OVER THE YEARS HAVE TRIED EVERYTHING INCLUDING KIA DEALERS THAT COULD NOT SOLVE THE ISSUE UNTIL NOW. A FEW WEEKS AGO (APRIL 2015) AS I TRIED TO FILL THE CAR IT WOULD NOT ACCEPT FUEL SO I DETERMINED THE VENTING SYSTEM WAS FAULTY, I DISMANTLED IT AND... Read more
UNKNOWN OR OTHER May 26, 2015
Incident date: May 1, 2013
THE WHEEL STARTED SCREECHING AND IT FELT LIKE IT WAS ABOUT TO FALL APART I HAD TO REPLACE THE FUEL PUMP AS IT CUT OUT ON ME IN TRAFFIC ON A HIGHWAY ALMOST CAUSING AN ACCIDENT
WHEELS May 26, 2015
Incident date: May 1, 2013
THE WHEEL STARTED SCREECHING AND IT FELT LIKE IT WAS ABOUT TO FALL APART I HAD TO REPLACE THE FUEL PUMP AS IT CUT OUT ON ME IN TRAFFIC ON A HIGHWAY ALMOST CAUSING AN ACCIDENT
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM Mar 11, 2015
Incident date: Nov 3, 2014
NOTICING STRONG ODOR OF FUEL COMING THROUGH THE VENTS DURING TIMES OF COLD WEATHER. IT HAS BECOME MORE OF AN ISSUE SINCE I HAVE BEEN DRIVING THIS CAR MORE. I HAVE TAKEN IT TO 2 MECHANICS WHO TELL ME THAT THEY HAVE NOT SMELLED THE ODOR, EVEN AFTER GIVING ONE OF THEM THE CAR OVERNIGHT. HOWEVER, MY HUS... Read more
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM Feb 13, 2015
Incident date: Jan 3, 2011
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 KIA SPORTAGE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE AROMA OF FUEL WAS PRESENT WHEN THE VEHICLE WAS STARTED. THE FUEL SCENT VANISHED AFTER THE VEHICLE WAS WARMED UP. THE FAILURE OCCURRED NUMEROUS TIMES DURING THE WINTER. THE DEALER WAS UNABLE TO DUPLICATE THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WA... Read more
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM Oct 28, 2014
Incident date: Oct 24, 2014
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 KIA SPORTAGE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT FUEL FUMES WERE PRESENT IN AND AROUND THE VEHICLE. THE DEALER STATED THAT THERE WAS A FUEL LEAK COMING FROM THE FUEL TANK. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE AND INFORMED THE CONTACT THAT THE... Read more
SEAT BELTS Oct 20, 2014
Incident date: Oct 10, 2014
JUST GETTING IN VEHICLE READY TO PUT ON MY SEAT BELT IT WOULD NOT TIGHTEN NOR RETRACT BACK IN SO I COULD TRY AGAIN NOW THE SEAT BELT WILL NOT TIGHTEN AT ALL IT IS VERY UNSAFE I WILL GET TICKTED. I BOUGHT THE VEHICLE AS IS. *TR
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM Oct 6, 2014
Incident date: Sep 2, 2014
THERE IS A VERY STRONG RAW GAS SMELL THAT FILLS THE CABIN AND OUTSIDE THE VEHICLE. IT IS VERY NOTICEABLE UPON STARTING AND WHEN THE VEHICLE IS AT REST AND RUNNING. FUEL TANK LEAKING. SEAM AREAS AND FUEL PUMP/SENDING UNIT AREA DUE TO CORROSION AND VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED, AND I HAD A HA... Read more
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING Oct 6, 2014
Incident date: Sep 2, 2014
THERE IS A VERY STRONG RAW GAS SMELL THAT FILLS THE CABIN AND OUTSIDE THE VEHICLE. IT IS VERY NOTICEABLE UPON STARTING AND WHEN THE VEHICLE IS AT REST AND RUNNING. FUEL TANK LEAKING. SEAM AREAS AND FUEL PUMP/SENDING UNIT AREA DUE TO CORROSION AND VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED, AND I HAD A HA... Read more
SERVICE BRAKES Oct 6, 2014
Incident date: Sep 2, 2014
THERE IS A VERY STRONG RAW GAS SMELL THAT FILLS THE CABIN AND OUTSIDE THE VEHICLE. IT IS VERY NOTICEABLE UPON STARTING AND WHEN THE VEHICLE IS AT REST AND RUNNING. FUEL TANK LEAKING. SEAM AREAS AND FUEL PUMP/SENDING UNIT AREA DUE TO CORROSION AND VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED, AND I HAD A HA... Read more
STRUCTURE:BODY Oct 3, 2014
Incident date: Sep 23, 2014
FRAME IS RUSTED THROUGH. *TR
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM Sep 15, 2014
Incident date: Sep 15, 2014
FUEL TANK LEAKING. SEAM AREAS AND FUEL PUMP/SENDING UNIT AREA DO TO CORROSION AND VEHICLE WILL NOT MEET EMISSIONS STANDARDS DO TO LEAK. UNSAFE DO TO FUMES ENTERING CABIN . KIS HAS A TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN SC059 FOR SPORTAGE 1996 - 2002 FUEL TANK INSPECTION FOR CORROSION BUT DEALER SAID IT WAS... Read more
STRUCTURE:FRAME AND MEMBERS:UNDERBODY SHIELDS Aug 12, 2014
Incident date: Aug 11, 2014
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 KIA SPORTAGE. WHILE HAVING THE VEHICLE INSPECTED, THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE UNDERBODY FRAME WAS RUSTED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 117,000.
SEAT BELTS Jul 24, 2014
Incident date: Jul 21, 2014
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 KIA SPORTAGE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT AFTER LEANING FORWARD, THE FRONT PASSENGER SEAT BELT FAILED TO RETRACT. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 130,000 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 134,000.
STRUCTURE Jul 10, 2014
Incident date: Jul 8, 2014
CAR WAS AT DEALER FOR SERVICE. WE WERE TOLD THE FRAME WAS RUSTED AND THE CAR WAS NOT SAFE TO DRIVE. WE PURCHASED THE CAR NEW IN DEC 2002. WE HAVE HAD IT SERVICED THROUGH THE YEARS AT THE LOCAL DEALER. THEY TELL US THERE IS NOTHING THEY CAN DO ABOUT FIXING THE CAR. WE HAVE HAD MANY NEW CARS FROM 1962... Read more
STEERING Jun 29, 2014
Incident date: Jun 16, 2014
TRAVELING POSTED SPEED LIMIT , CAR BEGAN TO SKID. MADE A SLIGHT TURN OF STEERING WHEEL CAR BEGAN TO ROLLOVER TWO OR THREE TIMES. *TR
Crash
AIR BAGS Jun 29, 2014
Incident date: Jun 16, 2014
TRAVELING POSTED SPEED LIMIT , CAR BEGAN TO SKID. MADE A SLIGHT TURN OF STEERING WHEEL CAR BEGAN TO ROLLOVER TWO OR THREE TIMES. *TR
Crash
SUSPENSION Jun 29, 2014
Incident date: Jun 16, 2014
TRAVELING POSTED SPEED LIMIT , CAR BEGAN TO SKID. MADE A SLIGHT TURN OF STEERING WHEEL CAR BEGAN TO ROLLOVER TWO OR THREE TIMES. *TR
Crash
STRUCTURE:FRAME AND MEMBERS:UNDERBODY SHIELDS Jun 22, 2014
Incident date: Jul 5, 2013
I BOUGHT THIS CAR KNOWING I HAD TO REPLACE A FENDER AND THE DRIVERS SIDE DOOR. AFTER COMPLETING THE BODY WORK THE SHOP NOTICED THE REAR FRAME RAILS WERE RUSTED OUT TO A POINT IT WOULD NOT PASS PA STATE INSPECTION, WHICH HAD NOTHING TO DO WITH THE COSMETIC DAMAGE. *TR
Crash
ENGINE Apr 3, 2014
Incident date: Feb 4, 2014
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 KIA SPORTAGE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS "MISSING" WHILE IDLE AND "BACK FIRING". THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE MULTIPLE ISSUES WERE DIAGNOSED (POWER TRAIN, BASE ENGINE PROBLEM, EXHAUST MANIFOLD). THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANU... Read more
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE Jan 28, 2014
Incident date: Mar 12, 2012
THERE IS A VERY STRONG RAW GAS SMELL THAT PERMEATES THE CABIN AND OUTSIDE THE VEHICLE. IT IS VERY NOTICEABLE UPON STARTING AND WHEN THE VEHICLE IS AT REST AND RUNNING. I HAVE TAKEN THIS VEHICLE TO NUMEROUS MECHANICS TO INCLUDE THE LOCAL KIA DEALER TO RESOLVE THE PROBLEM - NEW FUEL FILTER, EXHAUST,... Read more
STRUCTURE:FRAME AND MEMBERS:UNDERBODY SHIELDS Jan 27, 2014
Incident date: Jan 5, 2014
THE FRAME AT THE POINT OF CONNECTION WITH THE REAR DIFFERENTIAL IS COMPLETELY RUSTED THROUGH AND I AM UNABLE TO GET IT REPAIRED. I HAVE CONTACTED KIA AND THEY SAID THAT THE VEHICLE IS BEYOND IT'S WARRANTY. I WAS DRIVING AND HEARD A THUMPING SOUND. THE SOUND GOT LOUDER AND THE CAR BEGAN TO SHAKE TERR... Read more
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM Dec 16, 2013
Incident date: Nov 1, 2013
I PURCHASED THE 2002 KIA SPORTAGE USED ON OCTOBER 1, 2013, WITH 120,000 MILES ON IT. WHEN THE TEMPERATURES BECAME COOL, I STARTED NOTICING GAS FUMES IN THE PASSENGER COMPARTMENT, AND STRONG SMELL OF GAS IN THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT IN THE VICINITY OF THE INTAKE MANIFOLD. I STARTED NOTICING GAS DRIPPI... Read more
POWER TRAIN Sep 16, 2013
Incident date: Sep 15, 2013
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 KIA SPORTAGE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 50 MPH THE VEHICLE STALLED. THE VEHICLE ALSO INDEPENDENTLY DOWNSHIFTED WHILE THE CONTACT WAS DRIVING 25 MPH. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE VIN WAS NOT... Read more
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM Aug 16, 2013
Incident date: Aug 15, 2013
MY 2002 KIA SPORTAGE 4WD 2D CV GAS - 119,000 MILES ON IT. WHEN PUMPING GAS- THE GASOLINE POURS AND SHOOTS RIGHT BACK OUT. NOT A VERY GOOD EXPERIENCE AT ALL. I HAD TWO OF MY CHILDREN IN THE CAR AND IT SEEMED LIKE GASOLINE WAS ALL OVER ME. THIS NEEDS TO BE RECALLED RIGHT AWAY. THIS IS NOT SAFE AT ALL!... Read more
EXTERIOR LIGHTING Jun 21, 2013
Incident date: Mar 18, 2013
BOTH OF MY HEADLIGHTS STOPPED WORKING DURING A HEAVY RAIN AND AT NIGHT BUT THE PARKING LIGHTS WERE STILL WORKING. WE ASSUMED IT WAS BECAUSE THE LIGHT BULBS NEEDED CHANGED. WHEN WE CHANGED THE BULBS, THE HEADLIGHT PLUG ON THE DRIVER SIDE WAS MELTED FROM A POSSIBLE SHORT IN THE WIRING AND CORRODED, ... Read more
POWER TRAIN Jun 13, 2013
Incident date: May 25, 2013
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 KIA SPORTAGE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED ON A SLIGHT INCLINE WITHOUT THE EMERGENCY BRAKE ENGAGED AND THE KEY STILL IN THE IGNITION WHEN THE VEHICLE ROLLED 20 FEET AWAY AND CRASHED INTO A NEARBY HOUSE. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED AND TOWED TO THE CONTACT'... Read more
Crash
STRUCTURE:BODY Apr 5, 2013
Incident date: Apr 5, 2013
I WAS FIRST MADE AWARE OF THIS PROBLEM IN JANUARY 2013 WHEN I WENT TO MUNROE MUFFLER IN JOHNSTON, RI FOR A NEW EXHAUST SYSTEM. I WAS TOLD OF SIGNIFICANT ROT ON THE FRAME OF THE CAR. THEN AGAIN A COUPLE OF WEEKS LATER BY ANOTHER MECHANIC WHO GAVE ME A BETTER PRICE ON THE MUFFLER SYSTEM AND INSTALLED ... Read more

Showing 50 of 321 complaints.

Technical Service Bulletins, 2002 KIA SPORTAGE

16 manufacturer communications from 9 unique bulletins. TSBs describe known problems and recommended fixes from the manufacturer.

Most Affected Components

ComponentBulletins
356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY3
116200 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:MODULE1
062200 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:COOLING SYSTEM:FAN1
092100 FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP1
053000 PARKING BRAKE:INDICATOR LIGHT1
123000 EXTERIOR LIGHTING:TAIL LIGHTS1
125000 EXTERIOR LIGHTING:BRAKE LIGHTS1
170000 LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES1
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
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
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
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-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-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
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
PS443 Apr 4, 2016
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
TSB - USE OF AFTERMARKET USB CHARGING CABLES IN USB/12V PORTS - This article provides information regarding the use of USB ports and 12V power outlets to connect/charge mobile phones. Customers may experience issues with their head units th
PS443 Apr 4, 2016
350000 EQUIPMENT
TSB - USE OF AFTERMARKET USB CHARGING CABLES IN USB/12V PORTS - This article provides information regarding the use of USB ports and 12V power outlets to connect/charge mobile phones. Customers may experience issues with their head units th
PS443 Apr 4, 2016
356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY
TSB - USE OF AFTERMARKET USB CHARGING CABLES IN USB/12V PORTS - This article provides information regarding the use of USB ports and 12V power outlets to connect/charge mobile phones. Customers may experience issues with their head units th
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
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
76 Jan 1, 2004
092100 FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
FUEL PUMP RELAYS & EMISSIONS FAILURES. KIA TECHNICIAN TIMES. *TT
014 Nov 1, 2003
062200 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:COOLING SYSTEM:FAN
COOLING FAN REPLACEMENT. *TT
51 Jan 1, 2002
116200 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:MODULE
SUBJECT REGARDING REPORTS OF DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODES P013A OR P013 BEING STORED. *TT

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
EA, Closed , Model Year: 2002
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
PE, Closed , Model Year: 2002
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
EA, Closed , Model Year: 1996
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
PE, Closed , Model Year: 1999
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
RQ, Closed , Model Year: 1997
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
DP, Closed , Model Year: 2000
VEHICLE ROLLOVER
There is no summary currently available
PE02002 Opened: Jan 9, 2002 , Closed: Aug 7, 2002
PE, Closed , Model Year: 1999
WINDSHIELD WIPER
SQ99021 Opened: Jun 30, 1999 , Closed: Feb 2, 2000
SQ, Closed , Model Year: 1997
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
6,758 Total Complaints
8 Investigations
438 Reported Crashes
255 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 33 View
2025 1 86 View
2024 3 95 View
2023 6 305 View
2022 1 60 View
2021 2 55 View
2020 2 201 View
2019 2 101 View
2018 3 221 View
2017 4 556 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 (current) 3 321
2001 2 354 View
2000 4 462 View
1999 5 493 View
1998 5 558 View
1997 3 299 View
1996 3 98 View
1995 2 88 View

Other KIA Models

Model Recalls Complaints
SORENTO 188 13,593 View
SEDONA 118 3,350 View
OPTIMA 100 10,128 View
TELLURIDE 70 2,186 View
SOUL 66 7,233 View
SORENTO HYBRID 62 159 View
SOUL EV 62 50 View
FORTE 56 3,494 View