This data is from the NHTSA — the US gov't agency tasked with vehicle safety. Complaints are spread across multiple & redundant categories, & are not organized by problem.
So how do you find out what problems are occurring? For this NHTSA complaint data, the only way is to read through the comments below. Any duplicates or errors? It's not us.
Purchased the car in 1999. Have had numerous problems starting it. Replaced the starter 3 times. Still have prblems starting it. 2002 didn't pass inspection because of exaust, Kia dealership was suppose to fix problem still having problems starting and exaust inspection failed again.
Transmission has been worked on over past year. ABS light came on and stayed on due to catalytic converter failure. Wheel bearing failed and was replaced. Automatic transmission had no engagement due to half shaft failure. Engine stalled at a stop due to transmission assembly failure. Brakes were noisy and were replaced, including the rotors. Engine will not start due to battery and starter failure.
Since purchase have returned car under warranty at least 10 times, always for the same problem having to do with the catalytic converter, emissions system, and brakes. About once a month, check engine light flashes, car lurches and is shakey, often with a funny noise and bad smell. Dealership has "fixed" same problem each time, to no avail. Danger factor has increased as I now live in snowy climate. Car has no power, then lurches forward at high speed, stops in traffic, stalls or won't start at all. Tachometer goes up to 4 or 5 before leaving first gear (car is automatic). Dealer sold this car to me as a demo, but contract says used. Help -- this is a terrible, dangerous car and has been in the shop for at least 90 out of the last 300 days.
The 4-wheel drive failed to work properly in snow, it went out. Also, disc brakes were not working when applied. Took to dealer & informed disc brakes were warped. Catalytic convertor had failed. In addition, mechanic found that the muffler did not work properly due to having a hole in it. All parts has to be replaced. Owner feels its a lemon. Mfg is no help.
A D V E R T I S E M E N T S
- Centerville, MA, USA