1999 Kia Sportage

Introduction

The 1999 Kia Sportage is a compact SUV that offers a combination of practicality and affordability. It came with two engine options: a 2.0L inline-4 and a 2.7L V6. Transmission options included a 5-speed manual transmission and a 4-speed automatic transmission. Drivers appreciate the Sportage’s spacious interior and comfortable ride, but some have reported issues with reliability.

Engine

• 2.0L Inline-4
  • Head gasket failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Blown head gasket can lead to coolant leaks, overheating, and white smoke from the exhaust.
    • Solution: Replace the head gasket.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,200 - $1,800+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Timing belt tensioner failure
    • Description/Symptoms: A broken timing belt tensioner can cause the timing belt to skip, leading to engine damage.
    • Solution: Replace the timing belt tensioner and timing belt.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1,200+
  • Ignition coil failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Faulty ignition coils can cause misfires, rough idling, and decreased engine power.
    • Solution: Replace the ignition coils.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
    • Recalls: None Found
• 2.7L V6
  • Intake manifold gasket leak
    • Description/Symptoms: A leaking intake manifold gasket can cause vacuum leaks and decreased engine performance.
    • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Crankshaft position sensor failure
    • Description/Symptoms: A faulty crankshaft position sensor can prevent the engine from starting or cause intermittent engine stalling.
    • Solution: Replace the crankshaft position sensor.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $300+
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

• 5-speed Manual Transmission
  • Synchronizer wear
    • Description/Symptoms: Worn synchronizers can make shifting difficult, especially into higher gears.
    • Solution: Replace the synchronizers.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,200+
    • Recalls: None Found
• 4-speed Automatic Transmission
  • Transmission slipping
    • Description/Symptoms: The transmission may slip out of gear or hesitate to engage when shifting.
    • Solution: Repair or replace the transmission.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Torque converter failure
    • Description/Symptoms: A failed torque converter can cause transmission overheating, shuddering, and slipping.
    • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front strut failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Worn or damaged front struts can lead to poor handling, excessive tire wear, and noise.
  • Solution: Replace the front struts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear shock absorber failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Worn or damaged rear shock absorbers can reduce ride comfort and stability.
  • Solution: Replace the rear shock absorbers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator failure
  • Description/Symptoms: A faulty alternator can cause the battery to drain, leading to starting problems.
  • Solution: Replace the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery terminals corrosion
  • Description/Symptoms: Corroded battery terminals can prevent the battery from receiving a proper charge.
  • Solution: Clean the battery terminals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Free - $50
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust can develop on the body panels, especially on older vehicles or those exposed to harsh conditions.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the rusted body panels.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Dependent on the extent of the rust
  • Recalls: None Found
• Door lock actuator failure
  • Description/Symptoms: A failed door lock actuator can prevent the door from locking or unlocking.
  • Solution: Replace the door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: The plastic dashboard can crack over time, especially in hot climates.
  • Solution: Replace the dashboard.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• HVAC blower motor failure
  • Description/Symptoms: A failed HVAC blower motor can prevent air from circulating through the cabin.
  • Solution: Replace the HVAC blower motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 1999 Kia Sportage is a reliable and affordable SUV, but it has been known to experience some issues. The most common engine problems include head gasket failure, timing belt tensioner failure, and ignition coil failure. The transmission can also experience slipping or torque converter failure. Suspension issues include front strut and rear shock absorber failure. Electrical problems may include alternator failure and battery terminal corrosion. Exterior issues can include rust and door lock actuator failure, while interior issues may include dashboard cracking and HVAC blower motor failure. The severity and cost of repairs can vary, but potential owners should be aware of these potential problems before purchasing a used 1999 Kia Sportage.