2008 KIA Sportage Problems & Complaints
Real owner complaints and problems reported to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). View common issues by component.
98
Complaints Reported
Complaints by Component
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
14 complaints
CAR WAS SITTING IN DRIVE WAY FOR A DAY AND HALF AT 335 IN THE MORNING ELECTRICAL SHORT STARTED A FIRE WAS CAUGHT ON NEIGHBOR SECURITY CAMERA
Apr 28, 2019
TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2008 KIA SPORTAGE. WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED, IT CAUGHT FIRE. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT EXTINGUISHED THE FIRE. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN INSURANCE TOW LOT. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO A DEALER OR AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC FOR DIAGNOSTIC TESTING. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED. THE VIN WAS INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 16V815000 (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM). THE CONTACT STATED THAT AN EMAIL WAS SENT TO THE KIA MANUFACTURER WITH DOCUMENTED PROOF, BUT A RESPONSE HAD NOT BEEN RECEIVED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNKNOWN.
Mar 01, 2019
I BOUGHT A 2008 KIA SPORTAGE AT OSAGE BEACH MO ON JULY 12, 2016. I SENT IT TO GHANA IN AUGUST, 2016 AND CLEARED FROM THE PORT IN NOVEMBER, 2016. THE SAID CAR WAS PARKED FOR SEVERAL HOURS AT HOSPITAL ON AUGUST 21, 2018 AND CAUGHT FIRE AT 10.00PM THE SAME DAY. THE FIRE SERVICE WAS CALLED AND PUT OUT THE FIRE. AFTER EXAMINATION THE STATED IT WAS ELECTRICAL FIRE CAUSED BY THE WIRING HARNESS. I THEN LEARNT AFTER THE INCIDENT THAT THERE HAD BEEN A RECALL ( # 16V815000 / SC 138) ISSUED ON NOVEMBER 10, 2016 OF WHICH I WASN'T NOTIFIED. ATTACHED, PLEASE FIND PICTURES OF THE DAMAGE KIA SPORTAGE AND ORIGINAL TITLE. I AM WAITING FOR A DETAILED REPORT FORM FIRE SERVICE DEPARTMENT AT ESSAM, GHANA, WHICH I WILL SEND TO YOUR OFFICE UPON RECEIPT. BY THIS COMPLAINT, I AM THERE REQUESTING KIA MOTORS AMERICA TO REPAIR ALL DAMAGES CAUSED BY THE FIRE OR REPLACE THE VEHICLE. THANK YOU FOR YOUR ATTENTION.
Aug 23, 2018
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 KIA SPORTAGE. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 16V815000 (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM); HOWEVER, THE PART TO DO THE REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. PARTS DISTRIBUTION DISCONNECT.
Jan 23, 2017
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 KIA SPORTAGE. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 35 MPH, THE INSTRUMENT PANEL LIGHTING FAILED. THE CONTACT BANGED ON THE DASHBOARD AND THE LIGHTS CAME BACK ON, BUT THEN FADED OUT AGAIN. THE VEHICLE WAS DRIVEN HOME. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE VIN WAS INVALID. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 100,000.
Jan 18, 2017
+ 9 more complaints for this component
SERVICE BRAKES
9 complaints
My ABS MODULE HAS MY BRAKES LOCKED UP
Sep 07, 2023
I WAS DRIVING WHEN THE BRAKES WAS PRESSED THERE WAS A TERRIBLE NOISE AND NO BRAKES. THE GARAGE SAID THAT IT WAS THE ABS SYSTEM. THE BRAKE FLUID HAD LEAKED INTO THE ABS BOX AND SHORTED IT OUT. THEY WANTED 3100.00 DOLLARS TO FIX IT. I DONT HAVE THAT KIND OF MONEY. PLEASE HELP BY GETTING KIA TO DO A RECALL. MY HUSBAND AND I WAS OK. PLEASE HELP BEFORE IT HAPPENS TO SOMEONE ELSE. I AM OUT OF A VEHICLE BECAUSE I CANNOT AFFORD TO GET IT FIXED AND IT IS A SAFETY HAZARD. I TRIED TALKING TO KIA HEADQUARTERS THEY WERE NO HELP.
Nov 08, 2016
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 KIA SPORTAGE. WHILE DRIVING AT VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE BRAKE WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED INTERMITTENTLY. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A DEALER WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE BRAKES NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE CONTACT WAS UNAWARE IF THE VEHICLE WAS SERVICED ACCORDING TO NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 13V114000 (EXTERIOR LIGHTING, SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC). THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 53,000.
Apr 06, 2016
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 KIA SPORTAGE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE BRAKES WERE NOT RESPONDING WHEN THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED. THE VEHICLE WAS INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 13V114000 (EXTERIOR LIGHTING, SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC). THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC FOR INSPECTION AND DIAGNOSTIC TESTING. THE TECHNICIAN COMPLETED THE REPAIR BY ORDERING THE PART FROM THE MANUFACTURER. THE CONTACT WAS TO DETERMINE FROM THE MANUFACTURER WHEN THE VEHICLE COULD BE SCHEDULED FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 96,000. PARTS DISTRIBUTION DISCONNECT.
Feb 04, 2016
DUE TO DASHBOARD LIGHTS OF ABS, ESC, TRACTION CONTROL, ... I WAS TOLD THE HYDRAULIC ASSEMBLY NEEDS TO BE REPLACED, EST COST OF ... ABS PUMP AND MODULE AND THAT IT WOULD COST ME $2700 TO FIX.
Dec 29, 2015
+ 4 more complaints for this component
STRUCTURE
8 complaints
I bought my car July 27,2022 from Rt 119 Auto Sales and service. It came with a drive train warrenty. Nothing was said to me of a problem until I took it to get inspected then I found out my frame is rotted out on both sides.
Jan 24, 2023
The contact owns a 2008 Kia Sportage. The contact stated while checking the oil in their vehicle, the hood latch suddenly did not lock and the front hood of the vehicle fell down and on the contact's head which caused her nose to fracture. The contact stated she has a laceration on the bridge of their nose where they were bleeding and the contact has two black eyes. The contact did not receive any medical treatment at the scene or go to the hospital. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not made of the failure. The failure mileage was 167,000.
Nov 02, 2021
The contact owns a 2008 Kia Sportage. The contact stated while inspecting under the vehicle, he noticed the subframe was corroded. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. A dealer was not contacted. The manufacturer had been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 155,000.
Oct 20, 2021
RUSTED OUT ROCKER PANEL DUE TO HAVING A RECALL WITH THE UNDERSIDE COATING . KINDA GUESSING WHEN I TOOK MY CAR TO DO THE UNDERSIDE AT THE CENTURY 3 KIA DEALERSHIP
Jun 14, 2019
MY CAR HAS BEEN TAKEN CARE OF VERY WELL. THERE HAS BEEN NO MISUSE OR ABUSE. NOW, I HAVE HAD 2 DOOR HANDLES BREAK OFF. EVERY TIME, I RECEIVED A JOLT BACKWARDS. THE CAR WAS STATIONARY. I AM A 59 YEARS OLD, LAST PERSON TO GET INTO MY CAR WAS MY 92 YEAR OLD FATHER, WHO IS VERY FRAIL AND UNSTABLE ON HIS FEET. I THANK GOD, IT WAS ME WHO WAS THE VICTIM WHEN THE DOOR HANDLES BROKE OFF, MY FATHER WOULD HAVE FALLEN BACKWARDS, AND COULD HAVE FALLEN AND DIED. THIS HAPPENED TWICE, BOTH TO THE PASSENGER SIDE. I AM NOW AFRAID TO EVEN OPEN THE OTHER DOOR HANDLES. IF I LOSE THEM, I HAVE TO GET IN FROM THE TRUNK, AND CLIMB OVER. I HAVE BEEN IN CONTACT WITH BOTH GRIECO KIA IN DELRAY AND THE CORPORATE OFFICE. THEY JUST KEEP SAYING THE CAR IS OUT OF WARRANTY, AS IT IS OLDER. I DON'T HAVE THE MONEY TO PAY TO FIX THESE HANDLES. I DO NOT THINK A DOOR HANDLE SHOULD EVER BREAK OFF. PLEASE NOTE THERE ARE VIDEOS WITH THOUSANDS, OF VIEWERS WATCHING HOW TO FIX A BROKEN CAR HANDLE. THIS MEANS IT HAS HAPPENED TO THOUSANDS OF PEOPLE. KIA SHOULD PAY FOR IT. THEY REFUSE TO TAKE ANY ACCOUNTABILITY.
May 14, 2018
+ 3 more complaints for this component
ENGINE
7 complaints
Was parked and after driving to pick up please came back out and it was in flames
Jul 23, 2024
The contact owns a 2008 Kia Sportage. The contact stated that there was an abnormal burning odor detected. The vehicle failed to drive forward or reverse as needed. Additionally, the brakes seized. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer where it was diagnosed and determined that the ABS hydraulic module needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was contacted and informed the contact that the vehicle was not covered under a recall. The failure mileage was approximately 145,000.
Apr 18, 2023
2008 KIA SPORTAGE. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARD TO VEHICLE CATCHING FIRE WHILE PARKED THE CONSUMER STATED SHE WANTS TO BE COMPENSATED FOR THE LOSS OF THE VEHICLE.
Jan 10, 2023
CATALYTIC CONVERTER PROBLEMS. KEEPS FAILING EMISSIONS INSPECTION
Jan 16, 2020
2008 KIA SPORTAGE. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO ENGINE CATCHING FIRE AND IS SEEKING REIMBURSEMENT FOR THE VALUE OF VEHICLE AND DAMAGE TO THE HOME. *LD THE CONSUMER STATED THE MANUFACTURER DECLINED ASSISTANCE DUE TO THE VEHICLE NOT BEING AVAILABLE FOR INSPECTION. *JS
May 21, 2018
+ 2 more complaints for this component
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
5 complaints
The contact owns a 2008 Kia Sportage. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V800000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
Apr 19, 2024
The contact owns a 2008 Kia Sportage. The contact stated that while driving at undisclosed speeds, the brakes locked up. The contact removed the fuses. The contact called the local dealer, but the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. While his daughter was driving, an abnormal dinging sound was detected. The contact changed the calipers and noticed that the ABS box was stuck. The brake warning light was illuminated. The contact put the fuse back in the vehicle. Additionally, the vehicle was leaking brake fluid. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, who stated that the brake pedal was soft and not to drive the vehicle. The dealer informed the contact that the parts were not available. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact stated that the failure was related to NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V800000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic). The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was approximately 123,000.
Feb 22, 2024
The contact owns a 2008 Kia Sportage. The contact stated that after driving at approximately 15 MPH, the vehicle was shifted into reverse and the accelerator pedal was depressed; however, the vehicle failed to respond. The contact shifted the gear shifter several times and then drove for a short distance before the vehicle stalled. The check engine warning light was illuminated; the vehicle was able to be restarted. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic to be diagnosed. The contact stated that the ABS Hydraulic Control Unit needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The vehicle was then taken to a dealer where the vehicle was diagnosed and determined that the ABS Hydraulic Control Unit needed to be replaced. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 140,000.
Apr 26, 2023
The contact owns a 2008 Kia Sportage. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V800000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulics); however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The vehicle was taken to the dealer and the contact was informed that the vehicle needed to remain in dealer possession since the vehicle failed a safety test related to the recall. After several failed attempts to reach the dealer, the contact was informed that the part needed to repair the recall was discontinued and that she could pick up the vehicle. The manufacturer was notified, and a case was filed. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the repair. The contact had not experienced a failure. The vehicle remained in the possession of the dealer. The failure mileage was unavailable. Parts distribution disconnect.
Apr 26, 2023
INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6) PURCHASED KIA SPORTAGE XL ON 5-22-2008 WITH ABS BRAKE SYSTEM; DURING THE SUBSEQUENT WINTER MONTH, I APPLIED BRAKES AND WAS UNABLE TO CONTROL STEERING; FRONT WHEELS APPEARED TO BE LOCKED IN STRAIGHT POSITION; CAR CONTINUED SKIDDING THROUGH INTERSECTION, DESPITE APPLICATION OF BRAKES. TOOK CAR IN TO KIA (ED NAPLETON) IN ELMHURST A COUPLE TIMES, BUT WAS TOLD IT WAS A NORMAL FUNCTION OF THE ABS SYSTEM, AND I HAD TO INCREASE MY STOPPING LENGTH TO ENSURE I DIDN'T GO THROUGH THE INTERSECTION. IT IS LIKE GUESS WORK, BECAUSE SNOW IS DIFFERENT FROM ICE AND WATER, AND ONE NEVER KNOWS HOW THE SYSTEM WILL REACT OR HOW FAR YOU MUST APPLY BRAKES BEFORE GETTING TO INTERSECTION, TO GET THE EFFECT YOU NEED TO MAKE YOU FEELS SAFE AND ALLOW THE CAR TO STOP. I CALLED 18003334542 WHERE I WAS TOLD TO TAKE VEHICLE IN TO ED NAPLETON 18663528276 AND HAVE SYSTEM CHECKED; WHICH I DID A COUPLE TIMES, BUT AFTER A WHILE WAS TOLD I HAD TO GET ACCUSTOMED TO THE SYSTEM. STAFF AT 1-800 NUMBER ADVISED TO HAVE STAFF AT ED NAPLETON TEST DRIVE VEHICLE WITH ME & REPRODUCE MOTION/ACTION IN QUESTION, BUT THEY SAID IT WAS NORMAL. I FEEL VERY UNSAFE DRIVING THE VEHICLE DURING THE WINTER, AND HAVE TRIED NOT TO DRIVE THE VEHICLE AS MUCH AS I CAN. I'VE HAD NIGHTMARES ABOUT ENDING UP AT LOYOLA UNIVERSITY'S TRAUMA CENTER, WHICH IS SUBJECTIVE, BUT I'M NOT WORKING RIGHT NOW AND CAN'T WORK ON GETTING A DIFFERENT VEHICLE. DATES: 8-15-08 (JD POWER EVALUATION COMPLETED); 12-1-08 8AM (CAR IN FOR BRAKE CHECK); 12-3-01 (AGAIN); 12-10-10 CALLED 1800 NUMBER RE: BRAKES; 12-12-10 CALLED 1-866 TO GET APPT & HAVE BRAKES CHECKED AGAIN 3-7-09 TOOK CAR IN FOR OIL CHANGE, SPOKE TO GLENN J MUNGO RE: BRAKE EFFECT, REPEATED SAME THINGS OTHERS DID (THAT IT WAS A NORMAL RESPONSE TO PRESSING THE BRAKE PEDAL). CASE # [XXX] *TR
Mar 05, 2010
AIR BAGS
5 complaints
AIRBAG LIGHT HAS COME ON SEVERAL TIMES AND EACH TIME I HAVE TAKEN THE VEHICLE TO THE DEALERSHIP FOR REPAIR. THEY HAVE REPLACED THE SEAT BOTTOM AND EVEN REWIRED THE CAR, BUT THE AIRBAG CONTINUES TO COME ON AND STAYS ON. DUE TO THE ONGOING ISSUE, DATES AND MILEAGE ARE ESTIMATES AND DO NOT NECESSARILY REFLECT THE FIRST DATE OF THE ORIGINAL ISSUE.
Jun 25, 2017
AIR BAG SING ON.I TALK TO KIA SERVICES THEY TOLD ME I HAVE TO PAY $129 FOR JUST CHECK UP.MY CAR MILLEGE ONLY 80K.I FEEL NOT COMFORTABLE AT ALL.
Dec 14, 2016
THE AIRBAG WARNING LIGHT HAS COME ON WHILE CAR IS RUNNING .
Jul 12, 2016
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 KIA SPORTAGE. WHILE DRIVING 30 MPH, THE CLOCKSPRING MALFUNCTIONED WITHOUT WARNING AND THE AIR BAG LIGHT REMAINED ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS DIAGNOSED AS NEEDING THE CLOCKSPRING REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 154,000.
Jun 27, 2016
ANOTHER VEHICLE TURNED IN FRONT OF ME AND MY CAR IMPACTED THE OTHER VEHICLES PASSENGER SIDE. THERE WAS NO AIR BAG DEPLOYMENT. MY KIA SPORTAGE WAS DECLARED TOTALED. *TR
Sep 04, 2014
POWER TRAIN
4 complaints
THE AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION SHIFTS VERY SHARP AND ROUGH FROM 2ND TO 3RD GEAR, APPROXIMATELY AT 25 MPH. ON 17 MAR 11, THE DEALER RE-PROGRAMMED A COMPUTER CHIP FOR THE TRANSMISSION UNDER THEIR SERVICE BULLETIN TSB ENG 075--ECM UPGRADE. THE TRANSMISSION WAS FINE FOR ABOUT 8 MONTHS, BUT THEN SAME PROBLEM STARTED. THE CAR WAS BROUGHT IN AGAIN AT THE BEGINNING OF MARCH 2012, AND I WAS TOLD THAT THE TRANSMISSION WAS BLOWN, AND A NEW ONE PROVIDED UNDER WARRANTY. I WAS TOLD TO STAND BY AND THEY WILL CALL WHEN IT IS READY. I CALLED ONCE A WEEK FOR A MONTH TO INQUIRE, AS I RECEIVED NO CALLS, BEING TOLD THAT THE APPROVAL PROCESS WAS UNDERWAY. TODAY, 06 APR 12, I WAS TOLD THAT THE CHIP NEEDED TO BE RE-PROGRAMMED AGAIN. IT DIDN'T WORK BEFORE, WHY WOULD IT WORK NOW? I JUST WANT MY CAR PROPERLY FIXED, AND THE DEALER DOES NOT APPEAR TO BE WILLING TO DO IT. *TR
Apr 06, 2012
TRANSMISSION "SLAMS" WHEN SHIFTING FROM 2ND TO 3RD AFTER IT HAS A CHANCE TO WARM UP. THIS OCCURS FROM EITHER A STAND-STILL OR WHEN IT HAS BEEN ROLLING AND SHIFTS TO A HIGHER GEAR. I HAVE TAKEN IT TO THE DEALERSHIP AND THEY ARE NOT AWARE OF ANY OTHER ISSUES OF THIS TYPE, BUT I HAD ANOTHER KIA IN THE PAST AND THE SAME THING OCCURRED. THE DEALER IS CURRENTLY LOOKING INTO WHAT MAY BE CAUSING THIS ISSUE AND ARE TRYING TO DETERMINE IF I NEED A NEW TRANSMISSION OR NOT. *TT
Jul 11, 2011
ACCELERATED AFTER A STOP SIGN AND THE TRANSMISSION FELT LIKE IT AS STRUGGLING TO SWITCH GEARS. LIKE IT WAS SLIPPING. *TR
May 15, 2010
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 KIA SPORTAGE. WHILE ACCELERATING FROM A TRAFFIC STOP AT SPEEDS OF 25 MPH, THE VEHICLE SURGED FROWARD AS THE TRANSMISSION STRUGGLED TO CHANGE GEARS. THE DEALER ADVISED THEY WERE AWARE OF THE FAILURE HOWEVER, THE MANUFACTURE HAD NOT YET OFFERED A REMEDY TO CORRECT THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT STATED THE VEHICLE HAD BEEN SERVICED BY THE DEALER A TOTAL OF THREE TIMES. THE DEALER RESET THE VEHICLE ON EACH OCCASION. THE FAILURE CONTINUED TO RECUR INTERMITTENTLY. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 30,819 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 34,000.
Apr 14, 2010
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
3 complaints
LEFT HEADLIGHT PLUG IS DEFECTIVE
Nov 24, 2018
VEHICLE CAUGHT FIRE AFTER BEING PARKED LEFT RUNNING IDLE WITH LIGHTS ON FOR 20 MINUTES , THE FOG LIGHT BULB MELTED IT WAY THROUGH THE HOUSING AND INT THE FRONT BUMPER WERE OPEN FLAMES WERE VISIBLE AND HAD TO BE PUT OUT
Mar 03, 2017
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 KIA SPORTAGE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 35 MPH, SHE NOTICED SPARKS SHOOTING FROM THE PASSENGER SIDE TAIL LIGHT. THE CONTACT THEN BEGAN TO SMELL A BURNING ODOR AND PULLED OVER TO INVESTIGATE THE FAILURE. THERE WERE NO MORE SPARKS COMING FROM THE VEHICLE BUT THE BURNING ODOR WAS STILL PRESENT. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE DEALER AND A DIAGNOSTIC TEST WAS PERFORMED. THE DEALER WAS UNABLE TO DUPLICATE THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE RECURRED TWICE AND THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN BACK TO THE DEALER. THE DEALER STILL WAS UNABLE TO DIAGNOSE OR LOCATE A FAILURE WITHIN THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED AND THE CONTACT WAS ADVISED TO HAVE THE DEALER DIAGNOSE AND INSPECT THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT WAS CONCERNED WITH THE SAFETY OF THE VEHICLE AND TRADED IT FOR ANOTHER MODEL. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 54,000 AND THE CURRENT WAS 59,917.
Jan 03, 2011
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,STRUCTURE,ENGINE
3 complaints
THIS IS PART 2 OF 3... WE GOT A NEW BATTERY INSTALLED AT ADVANCED AUTO. CAR RAN FINE. THE NEXT MORNING , SHE STARTED THE CAR AND THEN WENT INTO THE HOUSE. MY NIECE WAS THERE AND SAID SHE HEARD A POP AND LOOK OUTSIDE TO SEE THE CAR ON FIRE. THE WHOLE FRONT END INCLUDING THE PASSENGER COMPARTMENT WAS BURNT TO A CRISP. I BELIEVE WHAT HAPPENED WAS A FAULTY PART IN THE ABS (CAUSING THE LIGHT TO COME ON) WAS SHORTING OR SOMETHING AND THAT KEPT DRAINING THE BATTERY. WITH THE BATTERY LOW, THE BATTERY WOULD DIE BEFORE ENOUGH HEAT COULD BUILD UP, HOWEVER, WITH THE NEW BATTERY, IT COULD CONTINUE TO PULL POWER AND HEAT UP WHATEVER FAULTY PART WAS SHORTING OUT AND THEN GOT HOT ENOUGH TO BLOW AND CAUSE FIRE. (CONTINUED IN NEXT POST) 3 OF 3... *TR
Nov 13, 2013
SHE IS 73 YEARS OLD AND ON A FIXED INCOME. SHE HAS ALREADY PAID THOUSANDS FOR THE CAR AND NOW DOES NOT HAVE A CAR DUE TO A FAULTY PART. NO CAR SHOULD CATCH ON FIRE DUE TO NORMAL USE. NOW SHE IS GOING TO HAVE TO FIND A WAY TO PAY FOR ANOTHER CAR. HOPEFULLY THAT CAR MANUFACTURER PRODUCES A VEHICLE THAT DOES NOT JUST CATCH FIRE AT RANDOM AND IF IT DOES, THEY TAKE CREDIT FOR BUILDING AND SELLING YOU A VEHICLE WITH A FAULT THAT IS THERE OWN. SHE STRUGGLED TO PAY THOUSANDS OF DOLLARS FOR A CAR THAT SHE TOOK GOOD CARE OF TO JUST BURN UP INFRONT OF HER. SHE LOOKED FORWARD TO FINISH PAYING THE CAR OFF. BLUE BOOK IS ROUGHLY $9,000.00 SHE PAID MORE THAT HALF OF IT OFF AND STILL OWES $7,000.00 BUT NOW, INSURANCE WILL GIVE HER THE $9,000.00 OF WHICH SHE WILL HAVE TO PAY $7,000.00 OUT TO PAY IT OFF, LEAVING HER WITH $2,000.00. WHAT CAN YOU BUY WITH $2,000.00 - NOTHING! SO NOW SHE MUST START OVER AND USE THE $2,000.00 TO GET BACK INTO A FULL CAR PAYMENT AND STRUGGLE AGAIN FOR ANOTHER 5 YEARS OR MORE. W.T.F.!?!? I SEE ON THIS WEBSITE, PEOPLE TALKING ABOUT THE SAME THING HAPPENING TO THEM. IF THERE IS MORE THAN 1 OR 2 CARS THAT HAVE CAUGHT ON FIRE THE SAME WAY, WHY ISN'T IT LOOKED INTO, AND WHY ISN'T THERE A RECALL. SURE IT MAYBE HARD FOR KIA TO REPLACE MANY VEHICLES, HOWEVER, I THINK IT IS HARDER FOR MY MOTHER OF 73 TO GO OUT AND BUY ANOTHER VEHICLE AT $15,000.00 - $20,000.00 JUST BECAUSE THE ONE SHE TRUSTED TO BE A SOLID VEHICLE WAS BUILD CRAPPY. IT IS KIA'S DESIGN AND MECHANICS THAT CAUSED THE PROBLEM, THEY SHOULD BE HELD RESPONSIBLE. AND IT SHOULD BE ILLEGAL FOR THEM TO KEEP SELLING THE VEHICLES TO PEOPLE WITH A PROBLEM AS SUCH. *TR
Nov 13, 2013
THIS WILL BE 1 OF 3 PART STATEMENT... ABOUT A WEEK AGO (GIVE OR TAKE A FEW DAYS), A COUPLE OF MY MOTHER'S 2008 KIA SPORTAGE'S DASH LIGHTS CAME ON. THE ABS LIGHT, THE ESC LIGHT, AND I THINK ONE OTHER (POSSIBLY THE TRACTION CONTROL LIGHT BUT MIND YOU THIS IS NOT MY CAR AND I AM NOT THAT FAMILIAR WITH HER DASH). SHE WAS TOLD THAT THERE WAS A RECALL FOR A PART THAT WAS CAUSING ONE OF THE LIGHTS TO COME ON (I BELIEVE THE ESC LIGHT). SHE TOOK THE CAR TO GET THE PART REPLACED, HOWEVER, THE LIGHTS DID NOT GO OFF. I HAVE WHEEL HUBS ON MY SUV CROSSOVER AND I TOLD HER THAT WHEN MY WHEEL BEARING/SENSOR STARTS GOING BAD THAT IS WHEN MY LIGHT COMES ON. WELL A COUPLE DAYS LATER, HER DRIVER SIDE WHEEL BEARING STARTED TO ROAR, SO WE FIGURED THAT THE ABS LIGHT WAS ON DUE TO THAT. SHE TOOK IT BACK TO THE KIA DEALERSHIP SHOP AND THEY REPLACED THE BEARING AND ALTHOUGH THE RIDE WAS QUIETER DUE TO THE NEW BEARING REPLACEMENT, THE ABS LIGHT AND OTHER LIGHTS DID NOT GO OFF. THE MECHANIC TOLD HER THAT SHE DOES NOT HAVE A WHEEL HUB WITH SENSOR AND BEARING IN THE HUB BUT THAT ALL OF HER PARTS WERE SEPARATE. HE SAID THAT THE LIGHT MAY BE ON DUE THE SENSOR MAY HAVE DEBRIS FROM THE WHEEL BEARING GOING BAD OR POSSIBLY THE SENSOR IS GOING BAD ITSELF. I PLANNED ON PULLING AND CLEANING THE SENSOR FOR HER IN THE UPCOMING WEEKEND. WELL BEFORE THE WEEKEND, SHE WENT SHOPPING AT THE GROCERY STORE AND WHEN SHE CAME OUT, THE VEHICLE WOULD NOT START. THE BATTERY WAS DEAD. WE CALL A TOW TRUCK DRIVER WHO CAME AND GAVE IT A QUICK JUMP AND SAID SHE MUST HAVE LEFT HER LIGHTS ON. SHE DROVE HOME, PULLED IN DRIVEWAY AND I TOLD HER TO LEAVE IT RUN A BIT TO CHARGE THE BATTERY BACK UP. SHE DID SO AND THEN AFTER ABOUT 10 MINUTES, SHUT IT OFF AND IMMEDIATELY STARTED IT AGAIN TO ENSURE THE BATTERY WAS CHARGED. LATER THAT DAY, IT WOULD NOT START AGAIN...BATTERY DEAD AGAIN. (CONTINUED IN NEXT POST) 2 OF 3... *TR
Nov 13, 2013
TIRES
3 complaints
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 KIA SPORTAGE. THE VEHICLE WAS EQUIPPED WITH HANKOOK OPTIMO H418 TIRES (NA), TIRE SIZE 235/60/16. THE DOT NUMBER WAS T7BNBWH. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO NOTICED THAT THE REAR PASSENGER AND DRIVER'S SIDE TIRES TREAD WERE COMPLETELY WORN. THE DEFECT OCCURRED ONE YEAR AFTER THE NEW REAR TIRES WERE MOUNTED ON THE VEHICLE. THE RECENT DEFECTIVE TIRES HAD NOT BEEN REPLACED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE DEFECT. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNAVAILABLE.
Jul 08, 2013
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 KIA SPORTAGE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE TIRE PRESSURE MONITOR ILLUMINATED. THE DEALER CHANGED THE CONTROL PANEL SENSOR, BUT THE FAILURE PERSISTED. THEY STATED THAT THEY COULD NOT CORRECT THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 56,000 AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 60,000.
Jan 26, 2009
WE HAVE A NEW 2008 KIA SPORTAGE. THE TPMS (TIRE PRESSURE MONITORING SYSTEM) COMES ON INTERMITTENTLY, FOUR TIMES IN 10,000 MILES. WE HAVE HAD TO TAKE THE CAR BACK TO THE DEALER ON TWO OCCASIONS TO HAVE THE LIGHT TURNED OFF. IT WENT OFF BY ITSELF ON THE OTHER TWO OCCASIONS. THE DEALER SAYS THE TPMS SYSTEM IS NEW AND WE SHOULD NOT WORRY ABOUT IT. THEY ALSO STATED IT HAPPENS FREQUENTLY ON OTHER MODELS, NOT JUST OUR VEHICLE. I BELIEVE THIS COULD BE A SAFETY HAZARD AND SHOULD BE INVESTIGATED. HOW ARE WE SUPPOSED TO NOW IF WE REALLY HAVE LOW TIRE PRESSURE? *TR
Dec 09, 2008
ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
2 complaints
The contact owns a 2008 Kia Sportage. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the message "ESC Off" was displayed and the vehicle failed to accelerate as needed. The contact stated that the failure had been recurring intermittently. The vehicle was taken to the dealer and to several independent mechanics; however, the failure could not be duplicated. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.
Aug 27, 2024
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 KIA SPORTAGE. THE CONTACT RECEIVED A RECALL NOTIFICATION FOR NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 16V815000 (ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL) AND STATED THAT THE PART NEEDED WAS UNAVAILABLE TO PERFORM THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE ISSUE. THE VIN WAS INVALID. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. PARTS DISTRIBUTION DISCONNECT. UPDATED 04/05/17 LJ *CN
Feb 06, 2017
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
2 complaints
The contact owns a 2008 Kia Sportage. The contact stated while driving 35 MPH, the check engine warning light illuminated. The contact took the vehicle back to the used car dealer where she purchased the vehicle and was informed that the 02 sensors and another unknown component needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired however, the failure persisted. The contact called the local dealer and made them aware of the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer had not been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 129,232.
Oct 26, 2021
LAST MARCH, I WAS TRYING TO STOP TO AVOID REAR ENDING A VEHICLE TURNING LEFT INTO AN APARTMENT COMPLEX. I WAS DOING LESS THAN 25MPH WHEN I SAW HER BRAKE LIGHTS AND TURN SIGNAL. ADDITIONALLY, I HAD PLENTY OF TIME AND DISTANCE TO STOP SAFELY. HOWEVER, AS I DEPRESSED THE BRAKE THE ESC, BRAKE WARNING AND BRAKE LIGHTS ALL CAME ON AND THE CAR DID NOT SLOW DOWN. I PRESSED HARDER AND HARDER UNTIL THE PEDAL WAS TO THE FLOOR. AT THIS POINT THEY LOCKED UP PREVENTING ME FROM STEERING AWAY FROM THE CAR THAT I THEN HIT. AFTER THE COLLISION REPAIRS, I TOOK THE VEHICLE TO MY MECHANIC WHO TOLD ME THE ABS COMPUTER FAILED CAUSING THE BRAKING FAILURE. HE SUGGESTED TAKING IT TO KIA. THE DEALERSHIP THEN CONFIRMED THAT THE ABS COMPUTER MODULE FAILED AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. AT THAT TIME MY CAR ONLY HAD 78,000 MILES ON IT. THERE IS NO REASON FOR THE ABS MODULE TO FAIL WITH LESS THAN 100,000 MOSTLY HIGHWAY (NO BRAKING NECESSARY FOR THE MAJORITY OF THE DRIVE) MILES ON THE CAR. THE IS, OBVIOUSLY, A SAFETY ISSUE AND THEY WANT $2,500 TO REPAIR AN ISSUE THAT THEY KNOW ABOUT. I WAS TOLD THEY HAVE REPLACED QUITE A FEW OF THESE MODULES BECAUSE OF THIS FAILURE. ADDITIONALLY, I HAVE A SEATBELT/AIRBAG SENSOR DINGING ALL THE TIME SO THAT'S ANOTHER SAFETY ISSUE WITH MY RESTRAINT SYSTEM!
Sep 25, 2016
ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC),SERVICE BRAKES
2 complaints
WHILE DRIVING AT A CONTINUOUS SPEED OF 55MPH ON THE MAIN ROAD, THE ESC LIGHT RANDOMLY CAME ON AND THE CAR JOLTED INTO 1ST GEAR. I WAS UNABLE TO MOVE IT AND IT WAS TOWED BACK TO MY HOUSE. SINCE THEN, THE BRAKE PEDAL GOES TO THE FLOOR WITHOUT STOPPING THE VEHICLE.
Apr 27, 2020
BRAKE FLUID HAD LEAKED INTO THE ABS CONTROL MODULE DISABLING THE ABS, ESC AND BRAKES
Jun 09, 2015
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
2 complaints
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 KIA SPORTAGE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE HOOD LATCH WAS CORRODED. THE CONTACT WAS UNABLE TO HAVE THE ROUTINE OIL MAINTENANCE PERFORMED DUE TO THE FAILURE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 64,000. UPDATED 06/13/17*LJ *CN
Mar 01, 2017
I WAS RECENTLY INJURED WHEN USING A 2008 KIA SPORTAGE. AS I WAS OPENING THE BACK DOOR, THE RING FINGER ON MY LEFT HAND WAS CAUGHT IN THE LATCH, BELOW THE EXTERIOR METAL PORTION WHERE YOU PUSH THE DOOR SHUT. THE END OF THAT FINGER WAS CRUSHED IN THE LOCK HIDDEN UNDER THE LATCH. IT BLED PROFUSELY AND HURT TERRIBLY. IT CONTINUED TO BLEED, AND WAS HORRIFICALLY BRUISED, ALTHOUGH I HAD IT IN ICE FOR OVER AN HOUR. THE INJURY KEPT ME UP DURING THE NIGHT, AND CONTINUED TO HURT, ANY TIME THE FINGER TOUCHED ANYTHING. WE RE-BANDAGED IT, ALWAYS PUTTING NEOSPORIN ON IT, THROUGHOUT THE FOLLOWING WEEKS. THE USE OF MY HAND WAS GREATLY LIMITED FOR THAT WEEK AND WELL INTO THE THIRD WEEK AFTER THE INCIDENT. I WAS TERRIBLY INCONVENIENCED WHEN TRYING TO TYPE, OF COURSE. THE INJURY CONTINUES TO CAUSE PAIN OFF AND ON, NEARLY FOUR WEEKS LATER. DURING THE FIRST WEEK, I DID NOT SLEEP THROUGH A SINGLE NIGHT WITHOUT BEING AWAKENED BY THE SHARP PAIN CAUSED WHEN THE FINGER BRUSHED AGAINST SOMETHING. IT CONTINUES TO HURT, HOWEVER, WHEN THE HAND IS USED FOR NORMAL ACTIVITIES SUCH AS GRIPPING THE STEERING WHEEL TO MAKE A SHARP TURN, PICKING ITEMS UP AT THE GROCERY STORE, WASHING MY HAIR, OR WHEN I INADVERTENTLY STRIKE MY HAND, EVEN LIGHTLY, SO THAT THE TIP OF MY HAND STRIKES A SURFACE. IT CONTINUES TO CAUSE PAIN THROUGHOUT THE DAY AND SOMETIMES EVEN NOW DURING THE NIGHT. OTHER USERS OF VEHICLES WITH MECHANISMS SUCH AS THIS SHOULD BE WARNED OF THE INJURY THEY CAN CAUSE. RENTAL CUSTOMERS, ESPECIALLY, SHOULD BE WARNED OF THIS POTENTIAL DANGER. *TR
Aug 07, 2008
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
2 complaints
I RECENTLY PURCHASED A 2008 KIA SPORTAGE AT AN AUCTION. IT HAS SUSTAINED AN ENGINE COMPARTMENT FIRE THAT APPEARS TO HAVE BEEN CAUSED BY THE WIRING HARNESS AND / OR ABS PUMP. THIS IS THE LX MODEL WITH 2.7 V6 AUTOMATIC 4WD. I JUST SAW ANOTHER SPORTAGE 2010 MODEL THAT HAD A FIRE IN THE SAME ABS PUMP AREA AT AN AUCTION. THOUGHT YOU MIGHT BE INTERESTED AS THERE SEEMS TO BE A PROBLEM .. *TR
Mar 03, 2011
2008 KIA SPORTAGE HAD PROBLEMS FROM DAY ONE. CONSUMER HAD PROBLEM WITH CHECK ENGINE LIGHT AND VEHICLE WOULD NOT START. *NJ
Sep 12, 2008
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ENGINE
1 complaint
The contact owned a 2008 Kia Sportage. The contact stated while driving 40-45 MPH, the check engine warning light illuminated, and the vehicle was shuddering. Additionally, the contact stated while driving on another occasion, the vehicle experienced brake failure, which nearly led to a crash. An unknown dealer was notified of the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, but no assistance was provided. The contact decided to total the vehicle. The vehicle was totaled. The failure mileage was approximately 117,000.
Jun 24, 2024
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
1 complaint
The radiator fan component was smoking. The car is available at anytime for inspection. I definitely feared that the car was going to explode in front of my baby cousins and elderly Aunt. The car has not been reproduced or confirmed by a dealship or independent service center. It also has not been inpected by manufacturer or police, insurance. The vehicle was not going faster than 30 mph, when parked, the radiator expelled the all the water on floor. It began to let out white smoke, and than black smoke. A lot of black smoke, and than a loud pop sound. The hood of the car melted shut. Everything that surrounds the radiator and battery was melted.
Jun 21, 2023
SERVICE BRAKES, AIR
1 complaint
The contact owns a 2008 Kia Sportage. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked and unattended, the vehicle caught fire. The ABS warning light was illuminated before the failure. The fire department extinguished the fire. There were no reported injuries. A police report was filed under case number 22027268. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was approximately 112,000.
Aug 17, 2022
POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKES
1 complaint
Smoke was pouring out from the passenger front side of the motor compartment. The fuses for the ABS (I think) were taken out so it would stop. I was a told a control module could have something to do with it.
Feb 21, 2022
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE
1 complaint
I WAS DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY WITH THE CRUSE CONTROL SET AT 65 AND THE VECHILE STARTED TO INCREASE SPEED ON IT'S OWN I ATTEMPTED TO TURN OFF THE CRUSE CONTROL BY PRESSING THE BRAKE AND TURNING OFF THE SYSTEM THE CAR SLOWED UNTIL I REMOVED MY FOOT FROM THE BRAKE, THEN IT BEGAN TO ACCELERATE AGAIN. ONCE I WAS ABLE TO STOP THE VEHICLE THE ENGINE CONTINUED TO TRY AND FORCE IT'S WAY BACK TO MOVING SPEED ON IT'S OWN, I WAS ABLE TO GET THE VEHICLE IN PARK AND THE ENGINE SPEED INCREASED TO FULL THROTTLE ON IT'S OWN. I WAS ABLE TO SHUT DOWN THE ENGINE AND RESTART THE VEHICLE, IT WAS BEHAVING NORMALLY ABOUT 10 MINUTES OF DRIVING LATER I ATTEMPTED TO STOP THE VEHICLE AND THE PROBLEM RETURNED AND IT STARTED ACCELERATING AGAIN ON IT'S OWN. I WAS ABLE TO SHUT THE VEHICLE DOWN
Sep 15, 2020
POWER TRAIN,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
1 complaint
WHILE DRIVING RPMS WOULD JUMP. HAD VEHICLE INSPECTED AND WAS TOLD I WOULD NEED TO REPLACE THE TRANSMISSION OR GET IT REBUILT. REPLACED THE TRANSMISSION BUT DIDN'T SEEM TO RESOLVE THE ISSUE. RPM'S STILL JUMP WHILE DRIVING. ALMOST AS IF I'M PUSHING THE GAS DOWN HARD THEN LETTING OFF. NOT SURE WHAT THE ISSUE MAY BE, IVE BEEN TOLD IT COULD BE THE CRUISE CONTROL OR POSSIBLY SHIFT SOLENOID. VEHICLE STALLS/JUMPS WHILE IN MOTION, HAPPENS ON INTERSTATE AS WELL AS CITY STREETS AND BACK ROADS. SEEMS TO JERK MORE AROUND 40MPH AND 80MPH BUT HAS DONE IT AT DIFFERENT SPEEDS AS WELL. OIL HAS BEEN CHANGED AS WELL AS FILTERS, ALL FLUIDS LOOK GOOD. UNSURE WHAT THE ISSUE MAY BE. *TR
Jun 01, 2020
SUSPENSION,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
1 complaint
THIS CAR IS 12 YEARS OLD AND IS UNSAFE TO DRIVE. THAT IS WHAT THE MECHANIC JUST TOLD ME WHEN I TRIED TO GET AN ALIGNMENT. THE WHOLE REAR SUBFRAME IS RUSTED OUT.WHICH IS RIDICULOUS FOR A 2008 VEHICLE.CAR PULLS DRASTICALLY TO THE RIGHT ALSO NEEDS NEW BALL JOINTSALSO NEEDS A NEW OXYGEN SENSOR
Mar 20, 2020
STRUCTURE,ENGINE
1 complaint
MY KIA SPORTAGE WAS PARKED IN FRONT OF A GARAGE WAS NOT TURNED ON AND WAS IN PARK WHEN THE ENGINE SUDDENLY CAUGHT FIRE IT SOUNDED LIKE A LOUD BOMB. THE FRONT OF THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED THE VEHICLE WAS NOT SALVAGEABLE.
Mar 03, 2020
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,WHEELS,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
1 complaint
SO I HAVE BEEN HAVING PROBLEMS WITH MY FRONT RIGHT TIRE I FEEL THAT IT WIGGLES AND WOBBLES A CLOG MY ALIGNMENT TO GET MY STUFF AND I ALWAYS NEED WORK DONE ON IT ABOUT EVERY 2 TO 3 MONTHS. I HAVE ALSO BEEN HAVING PROBLEMS CONTINUOUSLY GETTING LOCKED OUT OF MY CAR. MY CAR ON OR OFF ALWAYS LOCKS ME OUT OF MY CAR. MY PASSENGER DOOR NEVER LOCKS UNLESS I LOCK IT MYSELF MANUALLY. MY TRUNK DOOR NEVER OPENS AS WELL WHEN I PUSH THE UNLOCK BUTTON AND THE KEY MAILED IT WON'T FIT IN IT TO UNLOCK IT THAT WAY I FEEL THAT THE CAR OVER OR HAS A WIRING ELECTRICAL PROBLEM
May 01, 2019
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
1 complaint
TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2008 KIA SPORTAGE. WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED IN THE CONTACT'S DRIVEWAY, THE VEHICLE CAUGHT ON FIRE FROM THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT. THE FIRE WAS EXTINGUISHED BY THE FIRE DEPARTMENT. A POLICE REPORT AND A FIRE REPORT WERE FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A SALVAGE YARD AND DEEMED DESTROYED. THE DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED FOR A DETERMINATION OF THE FAILURE. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 16V815000 (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM) AFTER THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED BY THE FIRE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE, BUT OFFERED NO ASSISTANCE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 125,000.
May 29, 2018
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,STRUCTURE
1 complaint
12/03/17, 03:15 A.M. WHILE PARKED, NOT RUNNING, VEHICLE CAUGHT FIRE UNDER THE HOOD AND BECAME FULLY ENGULFED. VEHICLE HAD BEEN PARKED FOR SEVERAL HOURS PRIOR TO THIS INCIDENT. CAR WAS COMPLETELY DESTROYED. RESIDENCE WAS BUILT WITH VINYL SIDING, AND FRONT OF HOUSE WAS DAMAGED (MELTED VINYL). PARKED AT PRIVATE RESIDENCE. FAMILY ASLEEP INSIDE RESIDENCE WHEN FIRE ERUPTED. FOR 2 WEEKS PRIOR TO FIRE, THE ABS INDICATOR LAMP ON THE DASH PANEL WAS ILLUMINATED. BRAKES HAD BEEN INSPECTED, AND WERE IN GOOD BRAKING ORDER. I HAVE THE VEHICLE AVAILABLE FOR INSPECTION BY ANY INTERESTED PARTY.
Dec 13, 2017
POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
1 complaint
MY FAULTY 2008 KIA SPORTAGE STRIKES AGAIN. THE LAST 2 MAJOR INCIDENCES WITH MY KIA ARE DOCUMENTED IN MY NHTSA COMPLAINT (10621705) OCCURRED ON AUG 2013 -W/11K MILES( TRANSMISSION & ELECTRICAL) AND W/12K MILES -AUGUST 2014 ( ALTERNATOR &ABS PUMP). IT'S NOW JANUARY 2017 - CAR HAS 17.5K TOTAL MILES AND I NEEDED TO TOW MY KIA SPORTAGE 2008 TO A SERVICE CENTER AFTER THE CAR STALLED ON A MAJOR ROAD WITH 2 OF MY KIDS IN THE CAR. THE CAR IS BEHAVING SIMILARLY TO HOW IT BEHAVED IN 2013 ' ENGINE KNOCKS AS IT SHIFTS INTO GEARS EVENTUALLY STALLING. IN 2013 ' KIA REPLACED THE TRANSMISSION AND ENTIRE ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. AS I STATED IN MY PREVIOUS COMPLAINT, THERE MUST BE A DESIGN FLAW ASSOCIATED WITH THE CAR SINCE IT NOW APPEARS I HAVE THE SAME TRANSMISSION/ELECTRICAL PROBLEM AGAIN 6K MILES LATER SINCE THE LAST INCIDENT . JUST LEARNED TODAY THAT MY KIA NEEDS A NEW TRANSMISSION ! 3 TRANSMISSIONS IN 17,000 MILES ' JUST DOESN'T ADD UP. *TR
Jan 24, 2017
POWER TRAIN,SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE
1 complaint
KIA IS RIPPING PEOPLE OFF TO THE TUNE OF $1,700 TO $1,800 FOR THEIR FAULTY ABS BRAKE CONTROLLERS PLUS LABOR. IT IS A WIDELY KNOW PROBLEM THAT BRAKE FLUID SEEPS OUT OF THE BACK OF THIS UNIT ONTO THE CIRCUIT BOARD AND CAUSES A VARIETY OF SAFETY AND MECHANICAL ISSUES. A YEAR AND A HALF AGO I EXPERIENCED A PROBLEM WITH THE ESC TRACTION LIGHT COMING ON, FOLLOWED BY A FLASHING 4X4 LIGHT AND THEN FINALLY A CHECK ENGINE LIGHT. THE WORST PART ABOUT THIS IS THAT IT THEN SLAMS ITSELF INTO FIRST GEAR GOING DOWN THE ROAD! YES, YOU HEARD THAT CORRECTLY. THIS CAN HAPPEN VERY QUICKLY. KIA, YOU HAVE A SAFETY ISSUE! I REPLACED THE UNIT WITH A USED ONE FOR $350 PLUS INSTALLATION AND NOW IT HAS THE SAME PROBLEM A YEAR AND A HALF LATER. THERE WERE TWO POSSIBLE CONTROLLER UNITS FOR THE 2008 SPORTAGE AND THEY LOOK IDENTICAL BUT ARE NOT INTERCHANGEABLE. THE OTHER ONE I CAN PURCHASE NEW, DIRECT FROM SOUTH KOREA AS AN OEM PART IN A KIA/HYUNDAI BOX FOR AROUND $500. BUT NOT THIS ONE, THEY KNOW THEY HAVE A SERIOUS SAFETY PROBLEM AS THIS CAN UNEXPECTEDLY PULL YOU DOWN TO A CRAWL IN HEAVY TRAFFIC. THEY ALSO HAVE KEPT THE PRICE EXTREMELY HIGH ON THIS UNIT TO MAXIMIZE PROFITS ON A SAFETY ITEM THEY REFUSE TO FIX. I'M LOOKING FOR ANOTHER USED UNIT AND THEN I'LL DUMP THIS LEMON.
Feb 22, 2016
POWER TRAIN,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
1 complaint
I WAS DRIVING THE VEHICLE WHEN MY ESC LIGHT, BRAKE LIGHT AND CHECK ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON . I JUST GOT THE CAR INSPECTED AND IT PASSED FINE. I TOOK IT TO THE SHOP WHERE THEY SAID AN OIL SENSOR WAS BAD. THEY REPLACED THAT. THE VERY NEXT DAY THE LIGHTS WENT ON AGAIN AND THE CAR WAS HAVING TROUBLE SHIFTING INTO GEARS. IT WAS JUMPING AND ACCELERATING INTERMITTENTLY. I TOOK THE CAR BACK TO THE SHOP AND THEY SAID I HAD 4 TRANSMISSION CODES. THEY SAID THE ABS SYSTEM NEEDED TO ALSO BE REPLACED WHICH THE PART ALONE WAS OVER $2000.00. THIS CAR ONLY HAD 88,000 MILES. I DROVE THE CAR TO MCCAFFERTY FORD WHERE THEY ADVISED ME TO NOT FIX VEHICLE THE COST WAS FAR MORE THAN WHAT I WOULD GET AS A TRADE. IT NEEDED A NEW ABS BOX WHICH ALONE WAS OVER 2000 WITHOUT LABOR. IT NEEDED A TIMING CHAIN 600 AND SOME MAINTANCE STUFF 700. THIS CAR NEVER NEEDED ANYTING BUT TIRES, BRAKES, OIL CHANGES ETC. I FIND IT HARD TO BELIEVE AT 88, 000 ALL THIS COULD GO WRONG UNLESS THERE WAS A DEFECT IN THE ABS OR TRANSMISSION. AFTER LOOKING THIS UP I SEE THAT THIS IS A VERY SERIOUS ISSUE AND CONCERN. I TRADED IN VEHICLE AND WAS ONLY GIVE 500 AS A TRADE.
Feb 18, 2016
POWER TRAIN,ENGINE
1 complaint
I AM AN OWNER OF A KIA 2008 SPORTAGE WITH APPROXIMATELY 12,000 MILES. ABOUT 9 MONTHS AGO, THE ENGINE AND BRAKE LIGHTS WENT ON. IT WAS EVIDENT THAT CAR HAD A TRANSMISSION PROBLEM, YOU CAN HEAR THE ENGINE KNOCKING WHEN YOU WOULD GO PARK TO DRIVE OR REVERSE TO DRIVE ETC... THE DEALERSHIP SAID I NEEDED A NEW TRANSMISSION AND ALL NEW BRAKES. THEY COULDN'T EXPLAIN WHY THE TRANSMISSION WAS FAULTY ON A CAR THAT HAD AT THE TIME LESS THAN 11,000 MILES. THE CAR WAS AT THE DEALER FOR A MONTH BECAUSE THEY LEARNED THAT THE COMPUTER SYSTEM NEEDED REPAIRING AS WELL WHICH WASN'T COVERED UNDER MY PLAN THEY NEEDED CORPORATE TO PROVIDE AN APPROVAL TO REPAIR. IT EVENTUALLY GOT REPAIRED. 3 WEEKS AGO AT 12K MILES, MY DRIVERS PANEL TURNED INTO A CHRISTMAS TREE. THE ESC ON/OFF, ABS, BRAKES, ENGINE AND TPMS LIGHTS ARE ALL ON. I ALSO FEEL THE ENGINE BEGINNING TO KNOCK AGAIN. THE DEALER SAID I NEED A NEW ABS PUMP AND MODULE AND THAT IT WOULD COST ME $2700 TO FIX. I DECIDED NOT TO REPAIR BECAUSE I BELIEVE THEIR SOME TYPE OF ELECTRICAL DESIGN FLAW CAUSING THESE ISSUE. I HAVE READ THAT ABS AND TRANSMISSION PROBLEMS ARE VERY COMMON FOR KAI SPORTAGE OWNERS - I HAVE READ THAT ENGINE FIRES HAVE BEEN REPORTED IN THESE CARS. I FEEL UNSAFE FOR MYSELF AND MY FAMILY AND I AM LOOKING FOR ADVICE ON HOW BEST TO HANDLE THIS PROBLEM. KIA REFUSES TO TAKE OWNERSHIP OF THESE PROBLEMS. *TR
Aug 12, 2014
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
1 complaint
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 KIA SPORTAGE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE BRAKE LIGHTS ILLUMINATED WHEN THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS NOT BEING PRESSED. THE CONTACT ALSO MENTIONED THAT THE ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE DEALER ADVISED THAT NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER 13V114000 (EXTERIOR LIGHTING, SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC) WAS PERFORMED BUT THE FAILURE WAS NOT CORRECTED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 48,000 AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 51,000.
Apr 04, 2014
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING
1 complaint
I RECEIVED A SAFETY RECALL NOTICE FOR THE STOP LAMP SWITCH. I HAVE BEEN UNABLE TO SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT WITH MY LOCAL KIA DEALERSHIP TO HAVE THE RECALL WORK DONE. WHEN I FIRST MOVED TO THE AREA, I WAS UNSUCCESSFUL IN SCHEDULING ROUTINE MAINTENANCE WITH THE SAME DEALERSHIP. WHAT DO YOU RECOMMEND? *TR
Jun 28, 2013
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKES
1 complaint
I WAS IN THE CAR, PARKED IN A WENDYS PARKING LOT, ENGINE OFF, RADIO ON. THERE WAS A LOUD POP FOLLOWED BY SMOKE, A GENTLEMAN IN A TRUCK 3 SPACES AWAY HEARD IT AND SAW IT. WE GOT OUT TO LOOK AT IT AND THE SMOKE WAS INCREASING, I OPENED THE HOOD AND YOU COULD SEE FLAMES ABOUT 2 INCHES HIGH AROUND THE BOX MOUNTED INSIDE THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT, ON THE PASSENGER SIDE UP NEAR THE HEADLIGHTS AND OVER THE WHEEL WELL. WE SHUT IT AND WAITED FOR THE FIRE DEPARTMENT, EVERYTHING INSIDE THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT THAT COULD MELT DID MELT, ALL THE PAINT ON THE HOOD ETC, PASSENGER DOOR WILL NOT OPEN OR SHUT WITHOUT NOISE AND AN EXTRA PUSH OR PULL. I AM NOT A MECHANIC BUT I AM PRETTY SURE THAT THE LITTLE BLACK BOX WAS THE ABS CONTROLLER. JUST LUCKY THAT I WASN'T DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY. I HAVE SEEN THAT THERE ARE SEVERAL OTHER COMPLAINTS ABOUT THE SAME THING. *TR
May 14, 2013
EXTERIOR LIGHTING,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC),SERVICE BRAKES
1 complaint
APPROXIMATELY, TWO WEEKS AFTER PURCHASE IN 01/2013, "ESC OFF," LIGHT CAME ON MULTIPLE TIMES AT VARIOUS SPEEDS INCLUDING VEHICLE START UP. I MADE SEVERAL CALLS TO PLACE OF PURCHASE REGARDING INTERMITTENT, "ESC OFF," LIGHT. PRESSING " ESC OFF," DASH BUTTON HAS NO EFFECT AND THE LIGHT STAYS ILLUMINATED. DEALER OF PURCHASE TOOK VEHICLE TO KIA SERVICE AND THE DIAGNOSTIC WAS TPMS LIGHT IS ON, ADVISE. AT NO TIME DID THE TPMS LIGHT EVER COME ON, NOR WAS IT REPORTED AS SUCH. VEHICLE WAS RETURNED WITH NO WORK DONE, AND PLACE OF PURCHASE WAS INFORMED THAT TIRE(S) WERE LOW. CURRENTLY, THE "ESC OFF," LIGHT IS STILL ILLUMINATING AND BRAKE LIGHTS HAVE FAILED. TIRE PRESSURE CHECK BY RECENT SERVICE (OIL CHANGE) WAS REPORTED AS NORMAL. ACCORDING TO KIA CUSTOMER SUPPORT AND THE KIA DEALERSHIP OF SERVICE, THIS VEHICLE IS NOT INCLUDED IN THE RECALL ISSUED 01 APRIL, 2013. PURCHASE MILEAGE 27,476, MILEAGE AT KIA SERVICE 30,328 ON 21 FEB, 2013. SEVERAL ONLINE FORUMS INCLUDING KIA-FORUMS.COM REPORT THIS PROBLEM AS FAR BACK AS 2007 MODELS. *TR
Apr 22, 2013
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN,EXTERIOR LIGHTING
1 complaint
I PURCHASED A KIA SPORTAGE 2008 AUG OF 2010 ABOUT 1 MONTH AFTER PURCHASING I NOTICED THE ESC LIGHT THAT CAME ON, WHEN THIS LIGHT COMES ON THE ENGINE FORCES ITSELF TO DO MORE WORK, THE CAR WON'T GO MORE THEN 40MPH, I TOOK THE CAR TO THE DEALER THEY SAID IT WAS FIXED, 2 MONTHS LATER IT HAPPENED AGAIN, HERE WE ARE 1YR LATER AND IT'S STILL HAPPENING. THE DEALER I TAKE IT TO TELLS ME "THIS ALWAYS HAPPENS THIS TYPE OF CAR" AND KNOW THE BATTERY LIGHT IS COMING ON AT THE SAME TIME THE ECS LIGHT IS COMING ON. I HAVE AN APPT. TO GO TO THE DEALER BACK ON MONDAY FOR THE SAME PROBLEM AND I'M STILL GETTING NO ANSWERS. *TR
Mar 15, 2012
ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC),TRACTION CONTROL SYSTEM
1 complaint
ELECTRONIC STABILITY SYSTEM (ESS) DOESN'T WORK ON COLD DAYS. WHEN STARTING CAR ESS OFF LIGHT IS ON AND THE ESS SYSTEM WON'T WORK. TOOK CAR TO DEALER IN SPRING 2010 AND DEALER INDICATED THAT PROBLEM WAS A BAD BRAKE LIGHT SWITCH. DEALER REPLACED SWITCH AND ESS APPEARED TO BE REPAIRED. COLD WEATHER HIT AGAIN AND THE ESS DOESN'T WORK AGAIN. *TR
Dec 13, 2010
VISIBILITY
1 complaint
WHILE DRIVING SOUTH ON RT33, NEAR SNYDERSVILLE PA,AT ABOUT 60MPH THE DRIVER'S WINDOW "EXPLODED" I.E. SHATTERED INTO THOUSANDS OF PIECES. THERE WAS NO WARNING OF IMPENDING BREAKING-UP. THIS IS THE ONLY OCCURRENCE AT THIS TIME. NO ONE WAS INJURED AND I KNOW OF NO WITNESSES. I SHALL ATTEMPT TO HAVE THE DAMAGE REPAIRED UNDER WARRANTY. *TR
Sep 06, 2009
STEERING,SUSPENSION,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
1 complaint
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 KIA SPORTAGE. THE CONTACT HAS EXPERIENCED SEVERAL FAILURES WITH THE VEHICLE EVER SINCE ITS DATE OF PURCHASE. WHILE DRIVING 30 MPH, THE INSTRUMENT PANEL GAUGES ILLUMINATED AND BEGAN TO FAIL. SOON AFTER, THE VEHICLE FAILED COMPLETELY; HOWEVER, THE CONTACT WAS ABLE TO SAFELY MANEUVER THE VEHICLE TO HER DESTINATION. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER AND THEY STATED THAT THE ELECTRONIC STEERING CONTROL MODULE FAILED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. TWO MONTHS LATER, THE CONTACT NOTICED A NOISE COMING FROM THE FRONT END OF THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER, BUT THEY COULD NOT DETERMINE THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS THEN TAKEN TO A LOCAL REPAIR SHOP AND IT WAS DETERMINED THAT THE TWO FRONT STRUT BOLTS WERE LOOSE FROM THE SPINDLE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE CONTACT CALLED THE MANUFACTURER AND WAS INFORMED TO TAKE THE VEHICLE TO THE DEALER FOR FURTHER INSPECTION. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 900 AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 4,230.
Feb 19, 2009
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
1 complaint
2008 KIA SPORTAGE DO NOT HAVE A PROTECTIVE SHIELD UNDER THE GAS TANK. CONSUMER HAS A HOLE IN THE GAS TANK AFTER DRIVING OVER AN OBJECT IN THE ROAD. *NJ
Jan 12, 2009
SEAT BELTS
1 complaint
I HAVE PURCHASED A 2008 KIA SPORTAGE AND I AM DISABLED AND OBESE. I TELEPHONED KIA TO REQUEST A SEAT BELT EXTENSION AND THEY INFORMED ME THAT NHTSA SAID THAT THEY WERE NOT ALLOWED TO MAKE THEM. WHY DO ALL OTHER AUTO MANUFACTURERS FORD,CHRYSLER,CADILLAC OFFER SEAT BELT EXTENSIONS? *TR
Jan 05, 2009
VISIBILITY,TIRES
1 complaint
TPMS - TIRE PRESSURE MONITORING SYSTEM AND HEATING UNIT. *TR
Dec 16, 2008
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN
1 complaint
CHECK ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON FROM DAY ONE. ALMOST ALWAYS WHEN TANK OF GAS WAS AT THE 3/4 MARK. COMPRESSOR MAKES LOUD NOISE AFTER IDLING A WHILE, AND TRANSMISSION SLIPS AND DOES NOT CHANGE PROPERLY. *TR
Oct 14, 2008
Frequently Asked Questions
How many problems does the 2008 KIA Sportage have?
The 2008 KIA Sportage currently has 98 owner-reported complaints according to NHTSA database. These complaints are organized by component to help identify common issues.
What are the most common problems with 2008 KIA Sportage?
The most common problems reported for the 2008 KIA Sportage are organized by component above. Each component section shows owner-reported issues, crash reports, and fire incidents to help identify patterns and problem areas.
Where does this 2008 KIA Sportage problem data come from?
All problem and complaint data for the 2008 KIA Sportage comes directly from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) database. These are real complaints submitted by actual vehicle owners.
Other Years - KIA Sportage
2024 Problems
2023 Problems
2022 Problems
2021 Problems
2020 Problems
2019 Problems
2018 Problems
2017 Problems
2016 Problems
2015 Problems
2014 Problems
2013 Problems
2012 Problems
2011 Problems
2010 Problems
2009 Problems
2007 Problems
2006 Problems
2005 Problems
2004 Problems
2003 Problems
2002 Problems
2001 Problems
2000 Problems
1999 Problems
1998 Problems
1997 Problems
1996 Problems
1995 Problems
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