2012 Kia Sportage

Introduction

The 2012 Kia Sportage is a compact SUV known for its sporty handling, spacious interior, and affordable price. It is available with a choice of two engines: a 2.4-liter inline-four and a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four. Transmission options include a six-speed automatic, a five-speed manual, and a six-speed manual.

Owners of the 2012 Kia Sportage have praised its styling, comfortable ride, and value for money. However, there have been some reported issues with the vehicle, which are outlined below.

Engine

• 2.4L Inline-Four
  • Engine Knock: Description/Symptoms: A loud knocking noise coming from the engine, especially when accelerating. Solution: Replacement of the engine short block. Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $5,000+
  • Timing Chain Failure: Description/Symptoms: Rattles or grinding noises from the engine, loss of power, or difficulty starting. Solution: Replacement of the timing chain and related components. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500
• 2.0L Turbocharged Inline-Four
  • Turbocharger Failure: Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, whistling or screeching noises, blue or black smoke from the exhaust. Solution: Replacement of the turbocharger. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
  • Piston Ring Damage: Description/Symptoms: Excess oil consumption, decreased engine power, and blue or black smoke from the exhaust. Solution: Engine rebuild or replacement. Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $6,000+

Transmission

• Six-Speed Automatic
  • Transmission Delay: Description/Symptoms: Hesitation or delay in shifting gears. Solution: Reprogramming or replacement of the transmission control module. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Clutch Failure: Description/Symptoms: Slipping or chattering during shifting, difficulty engaging gears, or a burning smell. Solution: Replacement of the clutch assembly. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $1,500
• Six-Speed Manual
  • Difficulty Shifting Gears: Description/Symptoms: Stiff or difficult shifting into or out of gears. Solution: Replacement of the shift linkage or transmission synchronizers. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000

Suspension

• Strut Mount Failure: Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises from the front suspension, especially over bumps or rough roads. Solution: Replacement of the strut mounts. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400

Electrical

• Battery Drain: Description/Symptoms: Battery discharge after sitting for a period of time. Solution: Identification and repair of the parasitic battery drain. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
• Alternator Failure: Description/Symptoms: Dimming headlights, loss of battery power, or flickering electrical components. Solution: Replacement of the alternator. Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600

Exterior

• Tailgate Handle Failure: Description/Symptoms: Difficulty opening or closing the tailgate. Solution: Replacement of the tailgate handle assembly. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $300
• Rear Bumper Sagging: Description/Symptoms: The rear bumper hangs down or sags. Solution: Tightening or replacement of the bumper mounts. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200

Interior

• Dashboard Creaking: Description/Symptoms: Creaking or rattling noises coming from the dashboard area. Solution: Application of lubricant or replacement of the dashboard trim. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
• Sunroof Leak: Description/Symptoms: Water leaking into the cabin through the sunroof. Solution: Resealing or replacement of the sunroof. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000

Summary

The 2012 Kia Sportage is a generally reliable vehicle, but some issues can affect its reliability and owner satisfaction. The most severe issues include engine knock, timing chain failure, and turbocharger failure, which can be expensive to repair. However, many of the other issues are relatively minor and inexpensive to fix. Overall, the 2012 Kia Sportage is a solid choice for buyers looking for a compact SUV with a good balance of value, space, and performance.