2001 Kia Sportage from North America

Summary:

It kinda sucks

Faults:

Heater fan burned out, filling cabin with smoke.

Electric windows stopped working, had to replace all 4 switches.

Lug nuts keep coming loose! Wheel wobbles, studs break and need replacement. Happened twice in 24 months now.

Oil pan replaced twice.

I don't think the 4x4 is working. Wheels slip on wet pavement.

General Comments:

Cramped and tiny. Gutless engine. The problems I've had with this car are things that I've never experienced on any other make of vehicle I've ever owned.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? No

Review Date: 28th June, 2007

8th Aug 2007, 15:25

The problem you are describing with the wobbling wheels and breaking studs should be fixed promptly. Do not let this continue as it is a safety concern. Perhaps tie rod issue or other major front end condition. Take to another shop if you must, but do not let that condition persist.

4WD most likely is not working. There are repetitive issues with Vacuum lines and auto locking hubs. Replace hubs with WARN manual locking hubs. Small price to pay to rid the 4WD failures forever.

9th Aug 2007, 20:32

Kia sucks.

2001 Kia Sportage from North America

Summary:

I think they need to focus on safety

Faults:

The air bags didn't deploy on impact.

General Comments:

My mom owns.. sorry used to own a 2001 Kia Sportage. She got into an accident a couple of days ago. Someone pulled out in front of her and she hit them. Their airbags went off... my moms didn't.

Needless to say the insurance company totalled the SUV due to front end damage. Such as.. no bumper, hood was crunched up and I had to the pull driver's door open to get her out. We are in shock that the air bags didn't work and thank our lucky stars that she didn't get into that accident on the freeway. She has a bruised chest due to contact with steering wheel, a hand that swelled up (still waiting on x-ray results), and other injuries. All I have to say is safety standards were not met at ALL!!!

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? No

Review Date: 21st February, 2007

2001 Kia Sportage EX 2.0 from North America

Summary:

Extremely pleased with this vehicle and function of car

Faults:

Had to replace brakes since purchasing vehicle. Now having some battery/stater problems.

General Comments:

I have had this car for 4 years and with exception of brakes and the current problem. I have nothing, but good luck with it, never been in shop other than brakes, maintained every 3000 miles or close with oil changes and such. I have the convertible and that has worn and zipper has broke, Nothing I can't deal with. I have went on a few long trips and performs well have generally drove it 80-90 mph and no problems.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 18th September, 2006

2001 Kia Sportage LX 4 Cylinder from North America

Summary:

I wish that I had found carsurvey. org first

Faults:

1) Replaced timing belt.

2) Alternator belt broke.

3) Front brake caliper pistons seize, will not retract, rotor overheats, new seals, front brake overhaul required.

4) Tailpipe rusts at flange and separates from muffler.

5) Right front wheel bearing and hub fail, dealer bill is $1300. for parts and labor.

General Comments:

1) In constant need of repair.

2) Most replacement parts are not yet available in aftermarket autopart stores.

3) Dealer costs are outrageous.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? No

Review Date: 12th September, 2006

2001 Kia Sportage 2.0 DOHC from North America

Summary:

Korean Jeep

Faults:

Timing belt replaced at 95,000.

Struts and shocks replaced at 85,000.

Water pump replaced at 100,000.

Idler arm replaced at 70,000.

Battery replaced at 100,000.

Master cylinder replaced at 85,000.

Valve cover gasket replaced at 80,000.

Head light lenses replaced-dirty 50,000.

Carrier bearing went out 104,000.

General Comments:

This is the best car I have ever owned, and I have owned several.

The maintenance I have spent for this car is well within normal limits.

I've even added several after market components (IE GPSS, Lift kit, Larger wheels, and exterior modifications).

I am very pleased to say that my Kia Sportage is sure good to go for another 100,000 miles, and when the engine finally goes; I'll be more than happy to replace it.

Auto owners need to understand that regular scheduled servicing is very important.

I would guarantee that most of the complaints from the writers of this page are as a result of the driver's ill action to maintain his or her own vehicle.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 10th March, 2006

25th Jun 2009, 10:44

I agree completely with your response. I bought my 2001 KIA Sportage EX on E-Bay back in 2004 for $5,200. The vehicle had 69,000 miles on it when I bought it. My initial gut feeling with KIA was that they were lemons. I thought it would break down on me the first year. Since then, I have put 159,000 miles on this car with only two major repairs. The first was a cylinder misfire that cost me a little over $800.00 to repair. The second repair was completely my fault, because I did not have the car checked for an alignment since I bought, so the CV joints, bearings, rods, tires, etc., all had to be replaced ($1,077). I think after $159,000 miles, she could use some new shoes ;) The KIA Sportage is a magnificent vehicle and I would highly recommend KIA to anyone looking to buy a new car. Tough little SUV!