Kia Sportage is a sports utility car made in South Korea. This model comes with several engine options, with the most popular engine being the 2.0-liter FE inline-4 engine. Even though the Kia Sportage is a pretty reliable car, it also comes with multiple problems. But what are some of the Kia Sportage engine problems?
Common Kia Sportage engine problems include engine failure, engine idling, excessive oil consumption, loss of engine power, and fuel pump failure. Additionally, it also experiences turbocharger issues, check engine light issues, and cylinder misfires. Note that most of these engine problems are minor and avoidable.
More about Kia Sportage issues.
What are the common Kia Sportage engine problems?
Engine idling or stalling
One of the most common engine problems that Kia Sportage users have reported about is the engine idling or stalling while the car is moving. Some users called it the Kia Sportage jerking problem. This problem is connected to a faulty electronic gas injection control relay or a failing fuel pump.
The best way to fix this issue is by replacing the bad electronic gas injection control relay and fuel pump. Replacing one part and leaving the other will still cause problems.
Loss of engine power
Another common engine problem that Kia Sportage users should be ready to deal with is the loss of engine power. Some of the affected users stated that all power was lost, making the car undrivable. Upon inspection, the mechanics say it is caused by premature wear and tear that affects the fuel filters.
So, if you’re having this problem, you will have to replace the faulty or worn-out fuel filters with new ones.
Engine failure
Despite being a minor problem, some Kia Sportage users have reported having an engine failure. While engine failure can be caused by a myriad of things, it is caused by a faulty engine sensor in the Kia Sportage. Other causes of engine failure include detonation, overused piston rings, and broken valve seals.
To fix this problem, you will be needed to replace the worn-out engine sensor.
Excessive oil consumption
This is another major engine issue that Kia Sportage users should be ready to deal with. Nevertheless, it is very common in four-cylinder engines. So, if you acquire the Kia Sportage model with the 4-cylinder engine, you should be ready to spend more on oil than usual.
Since there is no permanent solution to this problem, you will have to change the oil more frequently to avoid further issues.
Turbocharger issues
Older Kia Sportage models do not have a turbocharger. As a result, turbocharger problems can only be found in the third-generation or newer Kia Sportage models. While the turbocharger has ensured that more power is added to the engine, they have been known to fail prematurely.
One of the common signs of a failing turbocharger is the engine losing power and making a very loud whining sound. To fix this issue, you will have to replace the bad turbocharger.
Fuel pump failure
The work of the fuel pump is to deliver fuel from the fuel tank to the engine. And because of its constant use, this is one of the engine parts that fail faster. One of the signs of a bad or failed fuel pump is the engine stalling or even shutting down completely. Ensure to replace the faulty fuel pump with a good one.
Cylinder misfire
Unlike most Kia Sportage engine problems on this list, this issue is normally caused by negligence by the owner. Some of the things that cause the Kia Sportage to have cylinder misfire are bad spark plugs or a dirty air filter. You can prevent this problem from happening by cleaning the air filter or replacing it at the right time. Furthermore, you should replace the spark plugs every 40,000 miles.
Check engine light problems
The Kia Sportage is also known to have check engine light problems. So, when you notice that your Kia Sportage check engine light is turning on and off, this is a sign that there is a leak at the intake ports. To fix this problem, you will have to replace the intake ports.
FAQ
Is Kia Sportage a good car?
Yes, Kia Sportage is one of the finest compact SUVs in the market. Thanks to its sleek design, reliability, safety, and practicality. On top of that, it is efficient and fun to drive. However, some people may find it unappealing. Some of those include individuals looking for a spacious, high-performance, faster, and luxurious compact SUV.
How long does the Kia Sportage last?
Kia is one of the more reliable models on the market. Therefore, with good care and maintenance, this car can easily clock over 200,000 miles. But with better maintenance and care, this car should even clock over 300,000 miles. Nonetheless, good driving habits have to be practiced for the car to last this long.
What are the common problems with Kia Sportage?
Apart from the Kia Sportage engine problems that we’ve discussed above, this car also faces other issues. Some of the common problems include transmission issues, suspension problems, braking issues, non-locking seat belts, water leaking into the front footwells, and a noisy AC.
Is Kia Sportage expensive to maintain?
No, the Kia Sportage is cheap to maintain. This is because it has an average annual repair cost of about $$462. Even though this is more than the Honda CR-V, Toyota Rav4, and Mazda CX-5, it is still reasonably cheap.
What is the most expensive Kia model to maintain?
The most expensive Kia model to maintain is the Kia K900 model. This is because it will cost the user an annual average repair cost of about $697. This is slightly more than the average cost of maintaining a car, which is around $652. So, before you acquire the Kia K900, you should be ready to spend more on maintenance than average.
Conclusion
The Kia Sportage is a sleek, reliable, practical, and safe SUV. It is also affordable and easy to maintain. Despite the Kia Sportage engine having several issues, this car can last for a long while if properly maintained and cared for.
