VIN REPORT

KNDJE7232976502162009 KIA SportageKM

36of 100
Moderate Risk
Buyer Risk Score
Recalls
3
3 campaigns found
Safety Grade
F
49/100 composite
Complaints
80
NHTSA filed
Vehicle Age
17 yrs
Made in SOUTH KOREA
BUYPurchase Verdict

2009 KIA Sportage was analyzed across NHTSA recalls, owner complaints, crash test data, and public auction records. There are 3 open recalls on record — these are safety-critical and should be addressed immediately. 80 o...

FIRE RISK
Verdict & Risk Assessment
📄

Executive Summary

2009 KIA Sportage

2009 KIA Sportage was analyzed across NHTSA recalls, owner complaints, crash test data, and public auction records. There are 3 open recalls on record — these are safety-critical and should be addressed immediately. 80 owner complaints include 6 reported injuries, indicating real-world safety incidents beyond normal wear.

  • 3 open recalls including safety-critical systems (Fire risk — park outdoors recall; Brake system recall)
  • 6 injuries reported across 80 owner complaints
  • High fire risk — 8 complaint(s) involved a fire
  • Electrical is flagged in both recalls and owner complaints — double-confirmed failure pattern
  • High lemon law risk indicators — multiple safety-critical recall and complaint patterns present
  • Component failure cascade detected — a known defect pattern that typically leads to more severe downstream damage
36
of 100
Moderate Risk
3 moderate risk signals detected. Negotiate accordingly and verify service history.
LOWMODERATEHIGHCRITICAL
3 Contributing Risk Factors
Critical deferred maintenance — safety-critical components overdue
+20
3 model-wide recalls on record
+9
Elevated fire risk signals detected
+7
Critical Alerts

Title Brand Check

Mined from auction damage fields and listing titles — not a DMV title history pull

No auction records available. Title brand status could not be verified — request title history from seller or state DMV.

Vehicle

Vehicle Specifications

Decoded from NHTSA vPIC database

Make
KIA
Model
Sportage
Year
2009
Trim / Series
KM
Body Style
Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV)/Multi-Purpose Vehicle (MPV)
Vehicle Type
MULTIPURPOSE PASSENGER VEHICLE (MPV)
Drive Type
4WD/4-Wheel Drive/4x4
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Engine
6-cyl 2.7L
Doors
4
Manufacturer
KIA CORPORATION
Assembly
GWANGJU, SOUTH KOREA
GVWR
Class 1C: 4,001 - 5,000 lb (1,814 - 2,268 kg)

Assembly Plant Quality

Plant: GWANGJU, SOUTH KOREA

CQuality55/100
Standard📍 GWANGJU, SOUTH KOREA

No specific quality data available for this plant. No documented recall or complaint concentrations on record.

Safety

Safety Intelligence

Composite analysis from NHTSA recall, complaint, and crash data

F
Score: 49/100
Crash Test Rating20/40
Recall Safety12/30
Complaint History17/30
60/100High
  • Fire risk — park outdoors recall
  • Brake system recall
2/100
Basic
1 of 20 safety features detected
Missing: Automatic Emergency Braking, Pedestrian AEB, Forward Collision Warning, Electronic Stability Control
High
  • 8 complaint(s) involved a fire
  • 1 recall(s) involve fire or ignition risk
High
  • 2 recalls on same component: Electrical
  • 2 recalls on same component: Brakes
  • 6 injuries reported in complaints
  • Safety system appears in both official recalls and owner complaints

Lemon law eligibility depends on state law, number of repair attempts, and days out of service. Consult an attorney for actual eligibility.

The same components appear in both official NHTSA recalls and owner-filed complaints — a double-confirmed failure signal.

Electrical
2 recalls23 complaints
Brakes
2 recalls8 complaints

Driver Assistance Features

ADAS equipment data from NHTSA vPIC database

Forward Collision Warning?Unknown
Automatic Emergency Braking?Unknown
Pedestrian AEB?Unknown
Rear AEB?Unknown
Lane Departure Warning?Unknown
Lane Keep Assist?Unknown
Lane Centering Assist?Unknown
Blind Spot Monitoring?Unknown
Rear Cross Traffic Alert?Unknown
Adaptive Cruise Control?Unknown
Adaptive Headlights?Unknown
Auto High Beam?Unknown
Parking Assist?Unknown
Backup Camera?Unknown
Electronic Stability Control?Unknown
Tire Pressure Monitoring?Direct
Event Data Recorder?Unknown
Crash Notification?Unknown
Dynamic Brake Support?Unknown
Keyless Ignition?Unknown
Recalls3

Deferred Failure Risk

Components and defects approaching or past their known service milestones

82/100
Critical Deferred Risk
Critical deferred failure risk — 6 safety-critical or high-cost components are past their service interval. Without immediate attention, repair costs will compound significantly.
No odometer data on record. Mileage is estimated at ~204,000 mi based on average annual driving. Items marked EST. OVERDUE may already be due — verify service history with the seller. Items marked OVERDUE are confirmed past-due based on vehicle age alone.
EST. OVERDUECriticalTiming Belt
Service interval: 7 yr · Vehicle age: 17 yr · Past due by age
Service Timing Belt immediately — already past the 90,000 mi / 7 yr interval
A snapped timing belt causes immediate, catastrophic engine damage — bent valves, destroyed pistons. No warning. Replace before the interval, not after.
EST. OVERDUECriticalTiming Chain Tensioner
Service interval: 10 yr · Vehicle age: 17 yr · Past due by age
Service Timing Chain Tensioner immediately — already past the 120,000 mi / 10 yr interval
Worn chain tensioners cause timing chain skip or snap — common on GM 5.3L/6.2L, Ford EcoBoost, VW/Audi EA888, BMW N47/N63. Listen for cold-start rattles.
EST. OVERDUECriticalWater Pump
Service interval: 8 yr · Vehicle age: 17 yr · Past due by age
Service Water Pump immediately — already past the 100,000 mi / 8 yr interval
Water pump failure causes rapid overheating. If the engine overheats even once, head gasket damage is likely — turning a $400 part into a $3,000+ repair.
EST. OVERDUEHighTransmission Fluid / Service
Service interval: 5 yr · Vehicle age: 17 yr · Past due by age
Service Transmission Fluid / Service immediately — already past the 60,000 mi / 5 yr interval
Degraded transmission fluid destroys clutch packs and solenoids. CVT transmissions are especially sensitive — neglected fluid can result in a $4,000–$8,000 replacement.
EST. OVERDUEHighDifferential / Transfer Case Fluid
Service interval: 4 yr · Vehicle age: 17 yr · Past due by age
Service Differential / Transfer Case Fluid immediately — already past the 50,000 mi / 4 yr interval
On 4WD/AWD vehicles, neglected differential or transfer case fluid causes metal-on-metal wear. Replacement costs $1,500–$4,000.
EST. OVERDUEHighCoolant Flush
Service interval: 5 yr · Vehicle age: 17 yr · Past due by age
Service Coolant Flush immediately — already past the 100,000 mi / 5 yr interval
Degraded coolant loses corrosion inhibitors and attacks aluminum engine components. Can cause head gasket failure and water pump corrosion.
EST. OVERDUEModerateSpark Plugs (iridium/platinum)
Service interval: 8 yr · Vehicle age: 17 yr · Past due by age
Service Spark Plugs (iridium/platinum) immediately — already past the 100,000 mi / 8 yr interval
Worn spark plugs cause misfires that can foul and crack catalytic converters. A $150 tune-up can prevent a $1,200 catalytic converter replacement.
EST. OVERDUEModerateFuel Injectors
Service interval: 10 yr · Vehicle age: 17 yr · Past due by age
Service Fuel Injectors immediately — already past the 120,000 mi / 10 yr interval
Dirty or failing injectors cause rough idle, reduced fuel economy, and increased emissions. Cleaning costs $100–$200; replacement $800–$1,600.

NHTSA Safety Recalls

3 RECALLS
3found

NHTSA VIN-specific recall lookup returned no data for this VIN. The 3 recalls below are model-wide and may or may not apply to this exact vehicle depending on production date. Verify at nhtsa.gov/recalls.

Estimated Repair Completion (Statistical)

Average repair completion across 3 recalls is ~69%. Always ask the seller for dealer service records confirming each repair.

69%
avg repaired

Statistical model based on recall age, component type, and manufacturer. Not a repair confirmation. Demand dealer service records.

KIA Recall Completion Rate — Industry Context
86%Fair

KIA completes recalls at a fair rate (86%). If this vehicle has open recalls, follow up with a dealer — average remedy time is ~20 months.

Avg time to remedy open recall: ~20 months · Source: NHTSA Recall Completion Rate Reports

Avg Fix Time
20mo
#16V815000
Oct 2016

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING

SummaryKia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain model year 2008-2009 Kia Sportage vehicles manufactured August 9, 2007, to May 13, 2009. The wire harness cover on the Hydraulic Electronic Control Unit (HECU) may be improperly sealed allowing water to get onto the HECU circuit board. If the water is contaminated with salt, such as could occur from melted snow, the wire harness connector pins may corrode and the circuit board may short circuit.
Read full details...
ConsequenceIf the HECU short circuits, there is an increased risk of an engine compartment fire.
Est. Repair Completion~64%

~36% chance this recall was never fixed

Moderate Risk

Source: NHTSA statistical model by recall age & component type

#13V114000
Jan 2013

EXTERIOR LIGHTING:BRAKE LIGHTS:SWITCH

SummaryKia Motors Corporation (Kia) is recalling certain model year 2007-2010 Rondo, model year 2007-2011 Sedona, Sorento and Sportage, model year 2010-2011 Soul, model year 2008-2011 Optima, model year 2010 Forte, model year 2007-2009 Amanti, and model year 2009 Borrego vehicles. Originally, in April 2013, Kia recalled 623,658 model year 2007-2010 Rondo and Sportage, model year 2007-2011 Sorento, model year 2007 Sedona, model year 2010-2011 Soul, and model year 2011 Optima vehicles. In September 2013, Kia informed the agency that it was adding an additional 356,719 vehicles to this campaign. The total number of vehicles being recalled is now 980,377. In the affected vehicles, the stop lamp switch may malfunction. A malfunctioning stop lamp switch may cause the brake lights to not illuminate when the brake pedal is depressed or may cause an inability to deactivate the cruise control by depressing the brake pedal. Additionally, a malfunctioning stop lamp switch may also result in intermittent operation of the push-button start feature, affect the operation of the brake-transmission shift interlock feature preventing the shifter from being moved out of the PARK position and cause the Electronic Stability Control (ESC) malfunction light to illuminate.
Read full details...
ConsequenceFailure to illuminate the stop lamps during braking or inability to disengage the cruise control could increase the risk of a crash. Additionally, when the ignition is in the 'ON' position, the transmission shifter may be able to be moved out of PARK without first applying the brake. This may lead to unintentional movement of the car which may increase the risk of a crash.
Est. Repair Completion~68%

~32% chance this recall was never fixed

Moderate Risk

Source: NHTSA statistical model by recall age & component type

#22V800000
Invalid Date

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP:CONTROL UNIT/MODULE

SummaryKia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2008-2009 Sportage vehicles previously recalled under recall 16V-815. An engine compartment fire originating from around the Hydraulic Electronic Control Unit (HECU) may occur while parked or driving.
Read full details...
ConsequenceA fire increases the risk of injury.
Est. Repair Completion~76%

~24% chance this recall was never fixed

Moderate Risk

Source: NHTSA statistical model by recall age & component type

Recall Intelligence

Detailed analysis of recall history and severity

LONG-STANDING OPEN
EXTERIOR LIGHTING:BRAKE LIGHTS:SWITCH
13.4yr open
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING
9.7yr open

⚠ One or more recalls have been open for over 5 years — may never have been repaired on this vehicle.

01/04/2013
3 total campaigns
ElectricalBrakes
3
Part Replacements
0
Software/OTA Updates
0
Buyback/Refund
0
High-Effort Repairs
2 recalls are over 2 years old — statistically less likely to have been completed. Verify repair status with any dealer using your VIN.

Recall Remedy Effectiveness — Complaints Continue After Fix

RECALL DIDN'T FIX IT

Owner complaints filed AFTER recall remedies were issued for the same components

61% of complaints about "ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING" were filed AFTER recall campaign 16V815000 (2016-10-11) — the recall remedy may not have fully resolved the issue.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING
61% post-recall
Recall: 2016-10-119 before · 14 after#16V815000
EXTERIOR LIGHTING:BRAKE LIGHTS:SWITCH
100% post-recall
Recall: 2013-01-040 before · 7 after#13V114000

Continuing complaints after a recall may indicate an inadequate fix, a new failure mode, or that many vehicles never had the recall performed. Verify recall completion status directly with NHTSA.

Manufacturer Recall Response Time

Time between first owner complaint and recall issuance

3.2yr
Lag from first complaint to recall
First complaint: 2009-10-26 · Recall issued: 2013-01-04

First complaint was filed 3.2 years before the recall was issued — manufacturer was aware of this issue for years before acting.

1 in 13

6 injuries reported across 80 complaints — elevated injury rate for this class of vehicle.

Complaints80

Complaint Intelligence

80 complaints analyzed across 10 system categories

Electrical
23
Safety Systems
3 crash5 inj14
Steering
12
Brakes
1 crash1 inj8
Engine/Powertrain
8
Other
7
Body/Structure
3
Suspension/Wheels
2
2015
10
2016
9
2017
4
2018
9
2019
8
2020
4
2021
2
2022
3
2023
4
2025
1
56% trend in recent years (improving reliability)
Declining -80%
1
Last 24 months
5
Prior 24 months
PEAKS SPRING (MAR–MAY)

31% of complaints filed in Mar & Jul — may indicate temperature-sensitive or weather-related failures.

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
Fire/smoke10
Electrical failure7
Engine stalling6
Brake failure2
Steering loss1
Conditions Reported
Highway/high-speed (8)Parking/low-speed (7)Startup (5)Rain/wet (3)Cold weather (3)

Owner Complaints

HIGH VOLUME

80 safety complaints filed with NHTSA

80found
8
Fires
4
Crashes
6
Injuries
ODI #11689074ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEMFIRE

In 2018 my I was driving home when it just shut off and wouldn’t start. Smelled like burning and had it towed to my house and had several mechanics look at it and couldn’t find the problem then as it was parked on day it started to smoke and the engine was burning I put out the fire and then a couple months later I got the recall information the car was a total loss and could t be repaired and no compemsation was sent to me. Ive contacted the class action suit and they were very vague with the information. I waited and the car eventually disappeared in which I thought the Kia company picked it up. I still have t hear word from anyone and my car is no where to be found and I would like to be reimbursed for the car since it was paid off

ODI #11547820SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

The contact owns a 2009 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, and it was determined that parts were not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue and informed the contact to contact the dealer for assistance. The contact had heard an abnormal sound and noticed that the wiring harness had melted. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was unknown. Parts distribution disconnect.

ODI #11532970SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

The contact owns a 2009 Kia Sportage. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V800000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic) however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had 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.

ODI #11520410SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

The contact owns a 2009 Kia Sportage. The contact stated that upon starting the vehicle in the dealer's parking lot after the recall repair of NHTSA Campaign Numbers: 16V815000 (Electrical System) and 22V800000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic) had been completed, the HECU, the ABS, the TPMS warning lights and other unknown warning lights illuminated. The contact drove the vehicle back to the residence. The contact notified the dealer of the failure. The dealer advised the contact to take the vehicle in for the repair however, there would be a fee for the repair. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 93,157.

ODI #11519996SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER

The frame has rusted out on this vehicle. The passenger side frame above the rear axle is completely rusted out. I can put my thumb through the rear frame on the driver's side. The exhaust system on this vehicle is still intact - ironic that the frame would rust out before the exhaust system.

ODI #11490678ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE

I was parked at the grocery store with the car idling in park. The engine suddenly died and smoke was coming out from under the hood. I honestly thought the car was about to burst into flames. A good Samaritan looked under the hood and it was still smoking but eventually stopped. The electrical system is fried and even the emergency lights won't work. There was a very strong electrical fire smell that hung around for hours. I looked up this model and it shows there was a recall with the electrical system & that there was a risk of fire. But this vehicle's VIN is not listed as needing a repair. We have purchased this car used and contacted the original owner. They don't remember ever getting a recall notice or having to do a recall repair with this. I don't know how the car didn't go up in flames because there was so much smoke coming from under the hood.

ODI #11458771SERVICE BRAKES

Reference Kia SC138, Rev 1: DTC code C2380 has been pulled and the recall specifically calls for replacement of the HECU should this code occur. My dash panel's brake light, ESC light and ABS light all have come on alerting me to my car's problem. This recall was initially addressed on 2/6/2017 in Arizona checking for corrosion and/or moisture reaching the circuit board which I was told is common in harsh environments. I am told the cover was replaced. Cars in Arizona do not have a moisture or road salt issue reaching the engine compartment. Now it does. I purchased this low mileage Sportage with 55K miles in Iowa and I live in Wisconsin and now there is a failure of the circuit board from exposure to our weather. The dealer that examined the control unit during its first recall exam lengthened two of the brake lines 3-4 inches making it easier to reconnect the brake lines. This is why my dealer, Bergstrom Kia in Appleton, WI initially claimed they can not address the replacement of this HECU. Since I challenged their excuse with the assistance of my mechanic at Whitcomb Automotive in Kaukauna, WI Bergstrom now is saying they cannot fix my car under this recall because it is no longer under warranty and that it was examined in Arizona back in 2017. I was not of the understanding that safety recalls had a time limit. I currently am not allowing my family to drive the car fearing there could possibly be an engine compartment fire as described in the recall bulletin. The folks at Bergstrom have now given me 3 different reasons why they cannot perform this recall at 3 different challenges I have made with regard to their excuses, they just keep changing their story. I have spoken with Kia America and they tell me this is completely up to the dealer regarding the repair and that Kia Corp has zero influence for this being fixed. Can you help me?

ODI #11452049AIR BAGS

6 months ago air bag indicator light came on for 2 days. That went out and another one came on (can't remember which one) and that stayed on for 2 days. Then all was good for 5 months. Now air bag indicator light is on again. Yes, it's available upon request. Have appt with dealer on 2/25/22. Of course the air bag indicator light could cause risk if there is something wrong with the bags. I'm wondering if it is just an electrical problem with the lights.

ODI #11442194UNKNOWN OR OTHER

The brakes lock up with pressure and will not allow me to brake when immediate breaking is needed. When continuing to try to break hard to prevent hitting the car in front of me, the brake pedal immediately drops to the floor releasing the exuberant brake pressure still not allowing any braking needed. This issue has gone on for over a year as it comes and goes in an odd fashion. We had the brakes fully replaced by a local, good mechanic. We will contact Kia, but do not know how to explain the issue since it is not the brakes. It seems to be the anti-locking system or electrical system not controlling or allowing the brakes to respond properly. It seems to be affected if the under car has gotten wet. I fear for my life and for what may happen if someone jumps out in front of me and the brakes do not function properly. I looked for a possible recall, yet my VIN was not included in the 2 recalls which seems to match my issue. There are no warning lights or any indications that my anti-lock braking has failed. I love my 2009 Kia Sportage V6 and have not had accident, yet. (Knock on wood!)

ODI #11396510ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE

BRAKE LIGHT CIRCUIT DOESNT WORK

ODI #11350815ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,STRUCTURE,ENGINEFIRE

WHILE THE CAR WAS OFF AND PARKED IN THE DRIVEWAY THE CAR CAUGHT ON FIRE IN THE PASSENGER SIDE OF THE MOTOR. THE ENTIRE FRONT PART OF THE CAR WAS TOTALED.

ODI #11337598AIR BAGS

AT APPROXIMATELY 40,000 MILES THE CLOCK SPRING MALFUNCTIONED DISABLING THE AIR BAGS AND HORN.

ODI #11331478ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

LEFT SIDE FRONT CORNER UNDER THE HOOD STARTED SMOKING. HAD TO DISCONNECT BATTERY TO MAKE IT STOP. CAR WAS PARKED AND TURNED OFF

ODI #11323010STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

I GOT THIS VEHICLE BACK IN AUGUST 2019. FROM THE TIME I BOUGHT THE VEHICLE PASSANGER SIDE WINDOW WOULD ONLY ROLL UP FROM DRIVERS SIDE SWITCH, WOULDN'T ROLL ITS DOWN BUT WILL ROLL UP AND DOWN FROM ITS DOOR SWITCH AND THE BACK DRIVERS DOOR WINDOW WOULDN'T ROLL UP OR DOWN AT ALL FROM EITHER SWITCH. ALSO MY BACK HATCH HAS BEEN STUCK IN UNLOCK, CAN HEAR IT WORKING LIKE ITS LOCKING IT BUT IT DOESNT ACTUALLY LOCK FROM THE DOOR OR THE GLASS. MY DRIVER SIDE DOOR ALSO HAS ISSUES WITH THE POWER LOCKS, IT WILL WORK FINE FOR A WEEK OR SO AND THEN STOP WORKING AND I HAVE TO MANUALLY LOCK AND UNLOCK FOR A FEW WEEKS, CAN HEAR IT LIKE IT'S WORKING ONLY IT DOESNT, JUST LIKE THE HATCH ONLY THE HATCH HAS NEVER WORKED. ALSO MY CIGARETTE LIGHTER AND FRONT 12V OUTLET DID NOT WORK. CHECKED ALL FUSES, EVEN CHANGED GOOD FUSES WITH BRAND NEW FUSES. DID NOT FIX THE PROBLEM SO I HAVE JUST DEALT WITH IT. WELL THINGS HAVE ONLY GOTTEN WORSE. SHORTLY AFTER MY PURCHASE I STARTED HAVING ISSUES WITH SQUEALING SOUNDS COMING FROM UPFRONT AND MY POWER STEERING JUST GOING OUT WHEN FIRST STARTING THE VEHICLE, WHEN GOING SLOW TO SWITCH LANES, AND GOING INTO TURNS OR MAKING TURNS. WHEN THE POWER STEERING GOES OUT IT'S LIKE THE POWER TO THE ENGINE ALSO CUTS OUT AND WHEN THE SQUEALING STOP I FEEL THE POWER COME BACK. ALSO MY CRUISE CONTROL ONLY WORKS WHEN IT WANTS TO AND I AM CONSTANTLY HAVING MY LOW TIRE PRESSURE SENSOR GO OFF. I SOMEHOW FEE LIKE AS THOUGH THIS IS ALL RELATED? I HAVE READ MANY MANY COMPLAINTS ABOUT MY VEHICLE. SHOULD'VE SEARCHED ALITTLE BETTER BEFORE PURCHASING. I SOMEWHAT FEEL LIKE I AM DRIVING A DEATH TRAP NOW. WOULD LOVE SOME GUIDANCE AND HELP WITH THIS SITUATION. ALL THESE CAR FIRES, ESPECIALLY AFTER BEING OFF FOR A LONG PERIOD OF TIME IS VERY SCARY. I HAVE HAD A FEW PEOPLE LOOK AT MY VEHICLE AND HAVE PRETTY MUCH ALL LEANED TOWARDS TENSIONER PULLEY AND SERPENTINE BELT NOW I WONDER

ODI #11292353ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

THE CAR HAS A ROUGH IDLE. IT WILL STALL RANDOMLY, SOMETIMES WHILE IN TRAFFIC. THE COMPUTER HAS BEEN REPLACED AND NUMEROUS SENSORS HAVE BEEN CHECKED. THE PROBLEMS OCCURRED WHEN WE FIRST BOUGHT THE CAR USED IN DECEMBER 2009. IT WAS FIXED BUT BEGAN HAPPENING AGAIN IN THE FALL OF 2018. THE RANDOM STALLING OCCURRED AGAIN IN LATE SUMMER 2019 AND HAS BEEN A PROBLEM EVER SINCE.

ODI #11290442AIR BAGSCRASH1 INJURY

HEADING DOWN HIGHWAY 198 FROM MABANK TX TO CANTON TX WE HAD HIT DEER TWO JUMP OUT ABOUT 2 FEET IN FROM OF US . WE MISS THE FIRST DEER AND SECOND ONE WE HIT DEAD SMACK IN FRONT OF CAR, IT DID SO MUCH DAMAGE HAD TO REPLACE MOST OF THE FRONT END INCLUDING RADIATOR AND COOLING FAN AND BATTERY BECAUSE IT HAD POP HOLE IN FRONT BATTERY. BUT AIR BAGS NEVER DEPLOYED. AND THAT MORNING NOTICE WHEN PERSON SITTING IN PASSENGER SIDE THE AIR BAG LIGHT ABOVE DASH SAYS PASSENGER AIR BAG ON THAN SAYS OFF. THERE PIC ATTACH SHOWS DAMAGED HAD TO REPLACED COST ABOUT 1400 DOLLARS OR MORE IN DAMAGE . AIR BAGS SHOULD DEPLOYED

ODI #11268385SUSPENSION

WHEN I PULLED IN MY YARD I HEARD A CLICKING IN THE WHEEL AND WHEN I GOT OUT THE WHEEL HAD SQUATTED OUT ON THE DRIVERS SIDE FRONT.AXLE IS OFF. I WAS IN MOTION WHEN IT HAPPENED

ODI #11240551ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS

THE CLOCK SPRING IS NOT WORKING WHICH DEACTIVATES THE AIR BAG SYSTEM AND HORN. THIS IS AN EXTREMELY DANGEROUS CONDITION. THIS SHOULD RESULT IN A RECALL IMMEDIATELY.

ODI #11221411TRACTION CONTROL SYSTEM,ENGINEFIRE

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 KIA SPORTAGE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE OPERATING THE VEHICLE, THE TRACTION CONTROL AND CHECK ENGINE WARNING LIGHTS SUDDENLY ILLUMINATED AND THE VEHICLE BEGAN TO SHAKE AND VIBRATE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE LOCAL KIA DEALER KOCOUREK (2700 N. 20TH AVE, WAUSAU WI) WHO DIAGNOSED THAT THE FAILURE WAS DUE TO A FAULTY WIRE HARNESS THAT HAD MELTED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT YET REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 75,000.

ODI #11203430AIR BAGS

AIRBAG ABOVE PASSENGER CURTAIN HAS DEFECTIVE MODULE. VEHICLE HAS ONLY 53375 MILES ON IT, IS ALWAYS GARAGED. KIA HAS ISSUED 507,000 VEHICLE RECALL FOR AIRBAGS DEFECTS, GOING BACK TO YEAR 2010. NORMAL WARRENTY IS 5 YEARS OR 60,000 MILES. KIA TOLD ME I AM NOT A LOYAL KIA CUSTOMER BECAUSE I DO NOT ROUTINELY BRING MY CAR TO DEALERS FOR SERVICES, OPPOSED TO MY LOCAL GARAGE. REPLACEMENT OF AIRBAG IS $1956.00 NOT INCLUDING LABOR AND TAX.

ODI #11192437ELECTRICAL SYSTEMFIRE

A FIRE STARTED IN THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT ON THE PASSENGER SIDE APPROXIMATELY 45 MINUTES AFTER PARKING THE VEHICLE AT MY PLACE OF EMPLOYMENT. WHILE SEARCHING THE INTERNET I FOUND THERE WAS A RECALL FOR THIS EXACT THING. I WAS NEVER NOTIFIED ABOUT THE RECALL AND NOW MY VEHICLE IS TOTALED FROM THE LACK OF NOTICE.

ODI #11192318POWER TRAIN

WHEN AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION SHIFTS FROM 2ND TO 3RD GEAR WHILE DRIVING THE WHOLE VEHICLE JERKS VERY HARD. IT JERKS SO HARD YOUR HEAD FLIES BACK. IT JERKS SO HARD AND LOUD THE ENGINE SOUNDS LIKE IT'S GOING FALL OUT.

ODI #11129191ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINEFIRE

ON TUESDAY AUGUST 28TH 2018 MY CAR WAS PARKED IN AN APARTMENT PARKING LOT, AND HAD BEEN OFF FOR 4 HOURS. I WOKE UP TO MY CAR ALARM GOING OFF AT 12AM. I LOOKED OUT THE WINDOW AND THE LIGHTS WERE NOT FLASHING ON MY CAR SO I DIDN'T THINK IT MINE. NOT MORE THAN 1 MINUTE LATER MY CAR STARTED ON FIRE. THANK GOODNESS MY BOYFRIEND WAS A FIREFIGHTER. HE CALLED 911 AND THE FIRE WAS PUT OUT WITH 15 MINUTES. HOWEVER MY CAR WAS DETERMINE A TOTAL LOSS. ALL THEY COULD TELL ME WAS THAT IT LOOKED LIKE IT WAS AN ELECTRICAL FIRE. NO ONE WAS HURT, BUT HAD I BEEN AT HOME THAT NIGHT IN MY DUPLEX WHO I SHARE WITH MY NEIGHBORS AND THEIR INFANT, AND PARKED IN MY GARAGE MY HOUSE WOULD HAVE BEEN BURNED AND I WOULD BE DEAD. IT WAS A 2009 KIA SPORTAGE AND I HAD NEVER HAD A SINGLE ISSUE WITH THE CAR IN THE 9 YEARS THAT I OWED IT. I WAS THE ONLY OWNER SO I KNEW MY CAR WAS WELL TAKEN CARE OF. WITH KIA IN THE NEWS A LOT LATELY WITH CAR FIRES I CAN'T HELP BUT FEEL THERE SHOULD BE AN INVESTIGATION.

ODI #11113188AIR BAGS

THIS IS COMPLAINT 1 OF 2. COMPLAINT 2 IS UNDER A SEPARATE CATEGORY "ESC". THE PASSENGER AIR BAG "OFF" INDICATOR LIGHT ON THE DASH CAME ON, WITH AN ADULT PASSENGER SITTING IN THE SEAT (VEHICLE IN MOTION OR STATIONARY). AT FIRST IT WAS RANDOM, AND THEN IT STARTED STAYING ON ALL THE TIME. THEN THE "AIR BAG" WARNING LIGHT ON THE INSTRUMENT PANEL CAME ON. THE PASSENGER RESTRAINT WILL ALSO LOCK, AND NOT RELEASE AS IT IS SUPPOSED TO. AT THIS POINT I TOOK IT TO THE DEALER. THE TECHNICIAN MADE THE FOLLOWING COMMENTS AFTER RUNNING DIAGNOSTICS: "AIR BAG LIGHT IS ON FOR A COUPLE OF REASONS. THE PASSENGER SIDE SEAT BELT RETRACTOR SENSOR IS BAD AND THE PASSENGER SIDE OCCUPANT SENSOR IN THE SEAT IS BAD." THE DEALER GAVE A VERBAL QUOTE OF $2,200 TO REPLACE THE SEAT SENSOR, AND AN ADDITIONAL $575 TO REPLACE THE PASSENGER RESTRAINT SENSOR. THEY GAVE A WRITTEN ESTIMATE OF $2,212 FOR THE SEAT SENSOR, BUT DID NOT PROVIDE A WRITTEN ESTIMATE FOR THE SEAT BELT RETRACTOR SENSOR. I REALIZE THE VEHICLE IS 9 YEARS OLD, BUT IT ONLY HAS 42,647 MILES ON IT. THIS IS A SAFETY ISSUE AND I CANNOT AFFORD NOR JUSTIFY INVESTING NEARLY $2,800 ON A 9 YEAR OLD VEHICLE. KIA DID A RECALL FOR THE 2006-2008 RIO MODELS ON 5/31/12 "12V244000" FOR THE SEAT SENSOR AND HAS ALSO EXTENDED THE WARRANTY OUT TO 15 YEARS FOR OTHER MODELS. VERY FEW PEOPLE CAN AFFORD TO SPEND THIS TYPE OF MONEY FOR A SAFETY ISSUE THAT SHOULD BE ADDRESSED BY KIA. NOW I HAVE A VEHICLE WITH A FAULTY AIR BAG SAFETY SYSTEM, AND HAVE NO IDEA IF THE AIR BAGS WILL DEPLOY IF AND WHEN NEEDED. SUPPORTING DOCUMENTATION IS ATTACHED.

ODI #11113191ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)

THIS IS COMPLAINT 2 OF 2. THE OTHER COMPLAINT IS IN THE CATEGORY "AIR BAGS". WILL DRIVING THE VEHICLE THE ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL "ESC" OFF INDICATOR LAMP ON THE INSTRUMENT PANEL CAME ON. AFTER SHUTTING THE VEHICLE OFF THE INDICATOR LIGHT WOULD GO OFF, ONLY TO COME ON AGAIN AFTER DRIVING A SHORT DISTANCE. I TOOK IT TO THE DEALER AND THE TECHNICIAN MADE THE FOLLOWING COMMENT: "ESC LIGHT IS ON BECAUSE OF THE BRAKE LIGHT SWITCH IS SHORTING OUT INSIDE THE SWITCH." I EXPLAINED TO THE DEALER THAT THE BRAKE LIGHT SWITCH WAS REPLACED BY THEM AS PART OF A RECALL ON 9/7/13, AND THAT I SHOULD NOT HAVE TO PAY FOR A NEW SWITCH. THE DEALER HAD TO CONTACT KIA DIRECTLY, AND KIA AGREED TO REPLACE THE SWITCH FOR THE SECOND TIME. I NOW WORRY ABOUT THE SAFETY OF MY VEHICLE AND AS TO WHY THE REPLACEMENT SWITCH FAILED.

ODI #11111418AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS,SERVICE BRAKESCRASH1 INJURY

ON 12 JULY 2018 AT 0530 AM I WAS DRIVING DOWN COUNTY ROAD 26 MANKATO MN TO PICKUP MY SEMI AS I WAS APROACHING 3RD AVE STOP SIGN I APPLIED THE BRAKES PEDAL WENT TO FLOOR I WENT THROUGH INTERSECTION SLAMMED INTO A BOULDER WALL HEAD ON AT AN ESTIMATED SPEED OF 40-45MPH. AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY,SEAT BELT TENSIONER BROKE,WONT RETRACT BACK INTO HOLDER. AFTER GETTING CAR TOWED CAN SEE THAT THE AIR BAG SENSOR WAS CRUSHED BUT NO DEPLOYMENT SPENT 2 DAYS IN HOSPITAL. THANKFULLY NOTHING BROKE JUST ALOT OF BRUISING. CANNOT FIGURE OUT WHY BRAKES DIDNT WORK ENDED UP USING EMERGENCY BRAKE TO TRY SLOWING DOWN IMPACT.

ODI #11098267AIR BAGS

THE CLOCK SPRING IS BROKEN WHICH CAUSES AN AIR BAG AND HORN MALFUNCTION.

ODI #11090331AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTSCRASH3 INJURIES

WE REALLY DO NOT KNOW WHAT WENT WRONG, WE WERE ON ROUTE 19 N. AT HICO,WV AND WE TURNED ONTO A SIDE ROAD,THE CAR SLED ON THE GRAVEL WE HIT THE BANK AND TURNED ON OUR SIDE. THE AIR BAGS DID NOT GO OFF AND WE COULDN'T GET THE SEAT BELTS TO RELEASE SO WE WERE TRAPPED IN THE CAR.THE CAR WAS A TOTAL LOSS.

ODI #11083270UNKNOWN OR OTHER

THE SHIFTER CAN SHIFT ANYTIME. I DON'T NEED TO PUSH THE BUTTON ON THE SIDE OF THE SHIFTER. WHILE DRIVING A FEW TIMES MY PURSE LEANED ON IT BY ACCIDENT. IT WENT IN TO N POSITION.

ODI #11080259STEERING,AIR BAGS

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 KIA SPORTAGE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE AIR BAG WARNING INDICATOR ILLUMINATED. THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THERE WERE NO RECALLS ON THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE CLOCK SPRING NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE LOCAL DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 122,000.

ODI #11067015EXTERIOR LIGHTING,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC),SERVICE BRAKES

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 KIA SPORTAGE. WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS BEING DRIVEN, THE ESC WARNING INDICATOR ILLUMINATED AND REMAINED LIT. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED PER NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 13V114000 (SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC, EXTERIOR LIGHTING); HOWEVER THE FAILURE RECURRED. SMITHTOWN KIA (726 MIDDLE COUNTRY RD, ST JAMES, NY 11780, (631) 724-8008) WAS CONTACTED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS ALSO NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 53,000.

ODI #11046392AIR BAGS

THE AIR BAG LIGHT IS ON. THIS SHOULDN'T HAPPEN. NOT SURE IF IT IS THE SENSOR OR IF THERE ARE PROBLEMS WITH THE AIR BAGS. THIS IS A SAFETY ISSUE.

ODI #10969574ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 KIA SPORTAGE. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 16V815000 (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM); HOWEVER, THE PART FOR THE REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIRS. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. PARTS DISTRIBUTION DISCONNECT.

ODI #10959754LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 KIA SPORTAGE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE HOOD FAILED TO OPEN WITHOUT WARNING. THE DEALER DIAGNOSED THAT THE LATCH THAT LOCKED THE HOOD WAS RUSTED AND THAT THE WHEEL AND THE FRONT FENDER NEEDED TO BE TAKEN APART IN ORDER TO REPLACE THE LATCH. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE, BUT DID NOT OFFER ANY ASSISTANCE. THE FAILURE WAS NOT REMEDIED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 64,000.

ODI #10944634STRUCTURE

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 KIA SPORTAGE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE PASSENGER DOORS DID NOT SHUT PROPERLY. THE DEALER WAS UNABLE TO DIAGNOSE OR REPAIR THE VEHICLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 41,000.

ODI #10927631VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE

2009 KIA SPORTAGE LX COMPLAINT. WE HAVE RECENTLY BEEN EXPERIENCING INTERMITTENT ACCELERATION SURGING. THE OCCURRENCES ARE RANDOM; HOT OR COLD IN D-GEAR AT A STOP-LIGHT OR IN PARK POSITION. I'VE TAKEN THE CAR TO THE KIA DEALER TWO TIMES. ON THE SECOND TIME, I WAS TOLD THAT AFTER A TEST-DRIVE ON THE SECOND DAY, THE MECHANIC DID NOTICE THE SURGING OF THE TACHOMETER AND THE 'FIX' WAS TO RE-ROUTE/LOOSEN THE CRUISE CONTROL CABLE. TWO DAYS LATER, THE ENGINE SURGING RE-APPEARED. THIS IS A DANGEROUS SAFETY CONCERN THAT CAN RESULT IN INJURY TO PEDESTRIANS, AND OTHER DRIVERS. WHEN THE ENGINE SURGE/RACING OCCURS THE TACHOMETER GOES UP AND DOWN FROM UNDER 1,000 TO 5,000 RPM'S. IT HAS HAPPENED WITH MY FOOT ON THE BRAKE AND WHILE IN PARK AND IN GEAR. DURING THE LATEST EVENT, WE HAVE A VIDEO TAKEN WITH OUR I-PHONE SHOWING THE TACHOMETER GOING UP AND DOWN IN THE 'PARK' POSITION. WE ARE SCARED TO DRIVE THIS CAR BECAUSE THIS SAFETY DEFECT CAN CAUSE BODILY DANGER AS IT LUNGES FORWARD DUE TO ENGINE RACING. I'VE ALSO POSTED THIS SAFETY DEFECT ON 'CARCOMPLAINTS.COM' TO WARN OTHERS. GOGGLING THIS ISSUE ON YAHOO.COM REVEALS OTHERS HAVING SIMILAR PROBLEMS. CAN WE GET SOME HELP ON THIS?

ODI #10908211SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 KIA SPORTAGE. WHILE DRIVING 40 MPH, THE ESC INDICATOR ILLUMINATED AND THE BRAKES ENGAGED WITHOUT THE BRAKE PEDAL BEING DEPRESSED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FAILURE WAS INTERMITTENT AND OCCURRED ON SEVERAL OCCASIONS. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A DEALER WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE HYDRAULIC CONTROL UNIT FAILED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 86,000.

ODI #10904679POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 KIA SPORTAGE. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 40 MPH, THE REAR PASSENGER TAIL LIGHT FAILED TO ILLUMINATE WHEN THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED. THE FAILURE RECURRED THREE TIMES. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER WHERE THE LIGHT SWITCH WAS REPLACED. IN ADDITION, WHEN DEPRESSING THE BRAKE PEDAL OR WHEN THE VEHICLE WAS IN REVERSE, THE PASSENGER SIDE TURN SIGNAL LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER WHERE THE LIGHT BULB WAS REPLACED. THE CONTACT WAS ALSO INFORMED THAT THE FUEL CAP AND STOP SWITCH NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURES. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 75,000. UPDATED 11/03/16*LJ THE CONSUMER STATED THE VEHICLE WOULD NOT ACCELERATE OVER 60MPH. THE VEHICLE WOULD LOSE POWER. UPDATED 09/19/2017*JS

ODI #10904818ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)

LAST SUMMER STOP LIGHT SWITCH WAS REPLACED PER RECALL. DRIVING HOME AT NIGHT ABOUT 65MPH WHEN THE ESC LIGHT AND CHECK ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON AND THE CAR ENGINE STARTED LOSING POWER DOWN TO 20MPH. ACCELERATOR DIDN'T WORK. I WAS ONLY A FEW MILES FROM HOME. MADE IT HOME. NEXT DAY ESC OFF LIGHT OFF. DID CALL KIA DEALERSHIP - NO HELP. NEXT DAY, DROVE 30MPH FOR ABOUT 1/2 MILE ESC OFF LIGHT CAME ON ON, LOST ENGINE POWER, MADE IT 1/2 MILE TO WORK. PUSHED ESC BUTTON. LATER THAT DAY, ESC OFF LIGHT AND CHECK ENGINE LIGHT WERE OFF. DROVE 1 MILE DOWN A ROAD 50MPH WHEN THE ESC LIGHT AND CHECK ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON AND THE CAR ENGINE STARTED LOSING POWER DOWN TO 20MPH. ACCELERATOR DIDN'T WORK. DROVE 20MPH FOR ABOUT 1/2 MILE. MADE IT HOME. DANGEROUS SITUATION - DRIVING 60+ AND ESC OFF LIGHT ON AND CAR IMMEDIATELY DE-ACCELERATES. COULD HAVE BEEN REAR ENDED.

ODI #10898058STRUCTURE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER

WHILE DRIVING DOWN A HIGHWAY AT 60 MPH ON A SUNNY, WINDY DAY THE HOOD FLEW OPEN AND SMASHED AGAINST THE FRONT OF THE CAR'S ROOF. THAT SHATTERED THE PLASTIC EYEGLASS HOLDER ON THE ROOF INTERIOR AND DENTED/MANGLED THE HOOD. THE HOOD LATCH IS SUPPOSED TO BE A FAILSAFE REDUNDANT MECHANISM THAT SHOULD NEVER, UNDER ANY CONDITION, ALLOW THIS TO HAPPEN. THERE IS A RECALL ON THE SORENTO'S RELATED TO THE MALFUNCTION OF A DEFECTIVE HOOD LATCH DESIGN DUE TO BINDING FROM CORROSION IN STATES THAT USE WINTER ROAD SALT SUCH AS PA. THIS IS A PA VEHICLE. FORTUNATELY, NO OTHER VEHICLE WAS STRUCK AND THE DRIVER MAINTAINED SUFFICIENT CONTROL TO SAFELY STOP.

ODI #10883542VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC),ENGINE

I WAS DRIVING DOWN A BUSY ROAD ABOUT 50MPH WHEN THE ESC LIGHT CAME ON AND THE CAR ENGINE STARTED LOSING POWER. I PULLED OVER, AFRAID TO DRIVE BUT THEN PROCEEDED AS I WAS ONLY A FEW MINUTES FROM HOME. I MADE IT HOME OK AND CONSULTED MY MANUAL AS TO WHAT THAT LIGHT MEANT. I PUSHED IT IN (SO THAT IT WAS NOW "ON" BECAUSE THE LIGHT SAID "OFF" AND IT DROVE OK FOR ABOUT A DAY. THEN WITH NO LIGHT COMING BACK ON, THE ENGINE JUST STARTED REVING UP REALLY HARD AND LOUD..LIKE IT WAS STUCK IN NEUTRAL AND IT STARTED TO LOSE POWER. I BARELY MADE IT HOME SAFELY AND NOE I'M AFRAID TO DRIVE IT. IT JUST CAME OUT OF NOWHERE...TOTALLY RANDOM. I HAVE AN APPT TO BRING IT IN TO KIA SERVICE CENTER MON. MORNING AND AM CURRENTLY DRIVING A RENTAL CAR. IT WAS A VERY SCAREY EVENT BECAUSE BOTH TIME IT GAVE NO WARNING AT ALL!!

ODI #10882938STEERING

I HAVE BEEN HAVING THE SAME PROBLEM AS OTHERS. IT HAS BEEN A SPORADIC PROBLEM FOR ABOUT FOUR MONTHS. IT'S ALMOST LIKE THE POWER STEERING GOES COMPLETELY OUT AND YOU ARE ALMOST UNABLE TO TURN THE WHEEL. HOWEVER, WHEN YOU PUSH ON THE ACCELERATOR THE STEERING RELEASES. THIS MAKES IT VERY DIFFICULT IF NOT IMPOSSIBLE TO KEEP THE VEHICLE IN THE PROPER LANE WHEN IT OCCURS. THIS IS A SAFETY HAZARD THAT NEEDS TO BE INVESTIGATED BEFORE IT CAUSE AN ACCIDENT.

ODI #10876805AIR BAGS

THE AIRBAG LIGHT IS ON AND AFTER TAKING IT TO A AUTHORIZED KIA DEALERSHIP, THEY SAID THE ERROR CODE INDICATED HIGH RESISTANCE AND THAT THE AIRBAG WAS DEFECTIVE AND NEEDS TO BE REPACED

ODI #10840048STEERING

STEERING WHEEL LOCKS WHEN MAKING A LEFT TURN AT SPEEDS UNDER 45MPH. DOES IT SPORADICALLY. STARTED AT AROUND 80000 MILES.

ODI #10788618STEERING

DRIVING ON MINIMALLY WET ROAD, WATER IS SPLASHING INTO ENGINE, LIGHT COMES ON ENGINE STALLS NO STEERING. THIS HAS OCCURRED ON RESIDENTIAL STREET, HIGHWAY STREET, DRIVING STRAIGHT, ACCELERATING FROM A COMPLETE STOP, TURNING LEFT OR RIGHT. CALLED DEALERSHIP FROM WHERE CAR WAS PURCHASED (FOUR MONTHS AGO) SERVICE MANAGER UNRESPONSIVE. HAVING A DIFFERENT DEALERSHIP LOOK AT CAR, WILL TRY TO RE-CREATE ISSUE.

ODI #10781678ENGINE

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 KIA SPORTAGE. WHILE DRIVING 50 MPH, THE VEHICLE STALLED WITHOUT WARNING. IN ADDITION, THE CAMSHAFT FRACTURED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A DEALER WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE KNOCK SENSOR NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 78,000. UPDATED 1/15/16 *CN

ODI #10761666ELECTRICAL SYSTEMFIRE

OWNER DROVE VEHICLE ONE HOUR PRIOR TO FIRE. PARKED VEHICLE WITNESS CAME BY OWNERS HOME REPORTED FIRE. FIRE IN FRONT ENGINE COMPARTMENT AT LOCATION OF ABS MODULE. OTHER COMPLAINTS NOTED FOR ABS MODULE AND FIRES.

ODI #10747087AIR BAGS

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 KIA SPORTAGE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT 65 MPH, THE AIR BAG WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A DEALER WHO DIAGNOSED THAT THE PASSENGER'S SIDE AIR BAG SENSOR NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 102,000.

ODI #10724763EXTERIOR LIGHTING,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 KIA SPORTAGE. WHEN THE GEAR WAS SHIFTED FROM PARK INTO DRIVE OR IN REVERSE, THE ELECTRONIC STABILITY WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED. WHEN THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED, THE BRAKE LIGHTS FAILED TO ILLUMINATE. THE FAILURE RECURRED MULTIPLE TIMES. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A DEALER AND THE MECHANIC STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS SERVICED UNDER NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 09V130000 (EXTERIOR LIGHTING); HOWEVER, THE FAILURE PERSISTED. THE VEHICLE HAD NOT BEEN REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 65,000.

ODI #10703162AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS

THIS IS MY 82 YEAR OLD MOTHER IN LAW CAR SHE SAYS THE AIR BAG LIGHT KEEPS COMING ON AND STAYING ON SO SHE TOOK IT TO THE DEALER THEY CHARGED HER $150.00 TO LOOK AT IT. THIS WAS ON NOV 4 2014 THE CAR HAD ONLY 57047 MILES ON IT. SO IN MARCH IT STARTED DOING IT AGAIN SO ON MARCH 27 2015 SHE GOES TO THE DEALER THIS TIME THEY DIDN'T CHARGE HER BUT TOLD HER IT WOULD COST $2,600.00 DOLLARS TO FIX. THE CAR ONLY HAS 59312 MILES ON IT. SHE IS FREAKED OUT SCARED TO DRIVE HER CAR AND IS ON FIXED INCOME. THE TWO CODES THEY FOUND WERE (B1489 OCS MATT DEFECT) AND (B1495 BELT TENSION SENSOR). MY SON SAYS HE THINKS THAT THE KIA RIO HAD THE SAME PROBLEM AND GOT RECALLED. I WILL GIVE MY INFO NOT MY MOTHERS THANK YOU *TR

ODI #10701559ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKESFIRE

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 KIA SPORTAGE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT SMOKE APPEARED FROM THE IGNITION SWITCH, WHICH WAS LOCATED ON A CORNER CONNECTED TO THE STEERING COLUMN AND DASHBOARD. THE BRAKES FAILED TO WORK WHEN THE FAILURE OCCURRED AND THE CONTACT WAS UNABLE TO DRIVE THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER, BUT THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE WAS NOT DETERMINED. THE VIN WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 55,498.

ODI #10701500ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 KIA SPORTAGE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHEN USING THE TURN SIGNALS, ALL THE ELECTRONIC DEVICES BLINKED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THE MULTI FUNCTIONAL SYSTEM NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. NO REPAIRS WERE MADE TO THE VEHICLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 91,000.

ODI #10690085SERVICE BRAKESCRASH1 INJURY

TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 KIA SPORTAGE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED AND THE VEHICLE VIOLENTLY JERKED FORWARD. AS A RESULT, THE CONTACT CRASHED INTO THE REAR OF ANOTHER VEHICLE AND A CURB. A POLICE REPORT WAS NOT FILED. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED INJURIES TO THE RIGHT FOOT THAT DID NOT REQUIRE MEDICAL ATTENTION. THE VEHICLE WAS INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER: 13V114000 (EXTERIOR LIGHTING, SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC) BUT THE PART WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS NOT AVAILABLE.

ODI #10683798SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)

I WAS GETTING MY OIL CHANGED AT VALVOLINE OIL CHANGE IN LIVERPOOL, NY. DURING THE ROUTINE LIGHT CHECK, THE TECH SAID THAT MY BRAKE LIGHTS WEREN'T COMING ON WHEN I BRAKE, ONLY THE TOP BRAKE LIGHT STRIP IN REAR MIDDLE. I HAD SEEN THE "ESC OFF" LIGHT COME ON WITHOUT ANY REASON IN THE LAST FEW WEEKS. I ALSO NOTICED THAT WHEN GETTING ON AN INTERSTATE HIGHWAY, MY CRUISE CONTROL WOULD TURN ON, BUT NOT SET/ENGAGE. I RESEARCHED ONLINE FOR THESE SYMPTOMS, AND FOUND THERE WAS A RECALL OF KIA SPORTAGES BOTH IN 2009 AND IN 2013 FOR A STOP LAMP SWITCH CAUSING THE EXACT SAME SYMPTOMS. THE NHTSA CAMPAIGN WAS #13V114000. IN CALLING THE BURDICK KIA TO GET THIS REPLACED BECAUSE OF THE RECALL, THE SERVICE MANAGER TOLD ME THAT THE SWITCH WAS REPLACED ON AUGUST 2013, IN COMPLIANCE WITH THE RECALL. BECAUSE OF THIS, I CAN'T GET THE SWITCH REPLACED FOR FREE. I AM JUST LETTING YOU KNOW THAT THERE IS STILL AN ISSUE WITH THIS CONDITION, EVEN WITH THE 2013 RECALL AND REPLACEMENT. *TR

ODI #10655014AIR BAGS

AIR BAG LIGHT CAME ON FOR KNOW REASON. TO IT TO THE DEALER CHARGED ME$100 TO "LOOK AT IT". THE REPAIR WOULD COST $2500. CAN'T AFFORD TO FIX IT, APPEARS MANY OTHERS HAVE THE SAME PROBLEM. *TR

ODI #10648371SERVICE BRAKES

MY ANTI LOCK BRAKES MODULE OR CALLED ABS. I TOOK THE CAR TO MY MECHANIC AND HE SAID, THE ABS SHOULD NOT HAVE WENT OUT THIS SOON. HE ALSO SAID THE ABS IS LEAKING BRAKE FLUID. THIS IS A SAFETY HAZARD. A ABS MODULE SHOULD NOT LEAK BRAKE, EVEN IF IT IS NOT WORKING. IF I HAVE NOT WENT TO MY MECHANIC, I COULD HAVE LOST MY BRAKES. I GOT IT AT KIA OF BRADLEY 1010 TIGHE DR, BRADLEY, IL 60914 (815) 932-1000. THEY WANT TO CHARGE AROUND $2500.00 TO REPLACE WHEN IT IS A DEFECTIVE PART AND SAFETY HAZARD. MY WINDOWS ICE UP ON THE INSIDE IN THE WINTER. I TOOK IT TO THEM, THEY TOLD DRILL HOLES IN MY DOOR SEALS. I HAVE HAD NOTHING BUT PROBLEMS WITH THIS DEALERSHIP. SOMETHING NEEDS TO BE DONE. *TR

ODI #10637895SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

CPSC: I1480398A. 2009 KIA SPORTAGE. CONSUMER STATED THAT THE FRONT BRAKES WERE WITH REPLACED WITH LESS THAN 80,000. *LN IT WAS REPORTED THAT SALT CORRODES THE GREASE ON THE CALIPERS LOCKING THEM UP.

ODI #10628597STEERING

THE STEERING WHEEL FREEZES/LOCKS UP WHEN DECELERATING IN A TURN. IT'S ALMOST LIKE THE POWER STEERING GOES COMPLETELY OUT AND YOU ARE UNABLE TO TURN THE WHEEL. HOWEVER, WHEN YOU PUSH ON THE ACCELERATOR THE STEERING RELEASES. THIS MAKES IT VERY DIFFICULT IF NOT IMPOSSIBLE TO KEEP THE VEHICLE IN THE PROPER LANE WHEN IT OCCURS. DEFINITELY A SAFETY HAZARD THAT NEEDS TO BE INVESTIGATED BEFORE IT CAUSE AN ACCIDENT. *TR

ODI #10621533STEERING

THE SAME COMPLAINT OTHERS HAVE HAD, SLOW SPEED TURN AND YOU LOOSE THE ABILITY TO STEER. IT'S ALMOST LIKE THE CAR QUITS, BUT IT IS STILL RUNNING WHEN IT HAPPENS. THIS SITUATION HAS BEEN GOING ON FOR A WHILE AND NEEDS TO BE ADDRESSED. *TR

ODI #10608121STEERING

WHILE OPERATING MY 2009 KIA SPORTAGE AND EXECUTING A SHARP RIGHT OR LEFT HAND TURN WHILE BRAKING, THE STEERING WILL SIEZE AND THE VEHICLE WILL NOT BE ABLE TO COMPLETE THE TURN WITHIN THE LANE OF TRAVEL. AFTER NUMEROUS OCCURRENCES I DISCOVERED THAT THE ONLY WAY TO GET THE STEERING TO GO BACK TO NORMAL IS TO REMOVE THE MY FOOT FROM THE BRAKE AND PUSH ON THE ACCELERATOR. BECAUSE OF THIS STEERING ISSUE, I HAD MY VEHICLE TOWED TO THE CLOSEST KIA DEALER WHICH IS ABOUT 250 MILES. THE VEHICLE HAS BEEN AT THE DEALER FOR 3 WEEKS NOW, THEY SAY THEY CAN NOT DUPLICATE THE SITUATION SO THEY CAN'T DO ANYTHING. *TR

ODI #10569080VISIBILITY/WIPER

MY MY2009 KIA SPORTAGE'S SUN VISOR WON'T HOLD UP AND I AM AFRAID THAT IF I AM INVOLVED IN AN ACCIDENT, MY HEAD WILL HIT THE HANGING-DOWN VISOR FIRST; IT CREATES A SERIOUS SAFETY CONCERN. I SEARCHED ONLINE AND LEARNED THERE WAS A TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN (TSB) ISSUED BY KIA IN JULY OF 2010 ONLY FOR MY 2008 SPORTAGE WITH THE SAME ISSUE. KIA KNEW THERE ARE ISSUES WITH THEIR SUN VISOR DESIGN AND IN MY OPINION THEY SHOULD ALSO INCLUDE MANY OTHER MODEL YEARS IN THE TSB. *TR

ODI #10549292EXTERIOR LIGHTING

A FEW MONTHS AGO, THERE WAS A RECALL ON A MALFUNCTION DEALING WITH THE BRAKE LIGHTS. SO I TOOK MY KIA INTO [XXX] AND THEY FIXED THE PROBLEM. A COUPLE OF WEEKS AGO, THE SAME MALFUNCTION OCCURRED. I ONLY HAVE THE TOP BRAKE LIGHT THAT WORKS AND NEED TO KNOW IF I CAN TAKE MY KIA BACK INTO THE DEALERSHIP TO GET IT FIXED. I AM WORRIED ABOUT THE SAFETY OF DRIVING MY VEHICLE TO AND FROM WORK. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR

ODI #10548675STEERING

WHILE DRIVING THROUGH SOME CURVE ON HWY 50 INTO AUSTIN NV. THE POWER STEERING FAILED, ON A HARD RIGHT CURVE, NO ASSIST UNTIL I CAME INTO A STRAIGHT AWAY, POWER STEERING WORKED FINE, THEN AGAIN ON A RIGHT CURVE IT FAILED. NO POWER ASSIST WITH STEERING UNTIL I GOT BACK ONTO A STRAIGHT AWAY. STOPPED IN AUSTIN CHECK POWER STEERING FLUID LEVEL, IT WAS WITHIN TOLERANCES. NOTE: EACH FAILURE LASTED APPROXIMATELY 1000 FEET. NO DASH WARNING INDICATORS ILLUMINATED. I AM THE ORIGINAL OWNER. THIS HAS BEEN AN ON GOING ISSUE SINCE ABOUT 100K MILES. DEALER COULD NEVER DUPLICATE, AND NO OTHER ISSUES WITH POWER STEERING. WE HAVE HAD THE POWER STEERING PUMP FLUSHED, BUT NO CHANGE SINCE THIS LAST EPISODE MECHANIC COULD NOT LOCATE AN ISSUE, SUGGESTED PUTTING ON A NEW POWER STEERING PUMP. *TR

ODI #10534091STEERING

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 KIA SPORTAGE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE COMPLETING A TURN, THE STEERING WHEEL SEIZED WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN FOR DIAGNOSIS AND THE CONTACT WAS ADVISED THAT THE STEERING RACK WAS LEAKING. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 49,693 AND THE APPROXIMATE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 80,000.

ODI #10532051ELECTRICAL SYSTEMFIRE

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 KIA SPORTAGE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE PARKED, THE VEHICLE CAUGHT ON FIRE WITHOUT WARNING. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED AND THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A INDEPENDENT MECHANIC. THE CONTACT MENTIONED THE VEHICLE WAS INSPECTED BY AN INSURANCE ADJUSTER, WHO CONCLUDED THAT THE FIRE ORIGINATED IN THE REAR DASHBOARD AREA. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO A DEALER FOR A DIAGNOSTIC TEST. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 64,000.

ODI #10525768STEERING

:: WARNING :: DANGEROUS :: KIA SPORTAGE DEFECT :: I OWN THE 2009 KIA SPORTAGE AND IT SEEMS THAT THERE IS A PERVASIVE PROBLEM WITH THE POWER STEERING CUTTING OUT, MAKING THE VEHICLE VIRTUALLY IMPOSSIBLE TO NAVIGATE. THIS IS VERY DANGEROUS PROBLEM AND THE COMPLAINTS AND BLOG POST ONLINE FURTHER VALIDATE THE SERIOUSNESS OF PROBLEMS AND ITS WIDESPREAD PREVALENCE. I HOPE KIA WILL STEP-UP AND FIX THIS VERY DANGEROUS DEFECT BEFORE SOMEONE GETS KILLED OR SERIOUSLY INJURED. THANKS! TWO SHORT URL SOURCES: HTTP://GOO.GL/X30N9 AND HTTP://GOO.GL/24P3Q *TR

ODI #10519698SERVICE BRAKES

THE SPORTAGE WAS GARAGED DURING A WINTER VACATION. UPON RETURN WE FOUND THE BRAKES SEIZED UP. AFTER GETTING THEM RELEASED, WE TOOK IT TO THE DEALER FOR SERVICE. THERE WAS CORROSION SO THE REAR BRAKE ROTORS AND PADS WERE REPLACED ON JUNE 11, 2010. THE SAME FAILURE HAPPENED AGAIN IN 2011, 2012 AND IN 2013 THE SEIZURE AND CORROSION ARE SEVERE. THIS WILL LEAD TO PREMATURE BRAKE FAILURE. *TR

ODI #10511311SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,SERVICE BRAKES

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 KIA SPORTAGE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE ESC OFF SWITCH ILLUMINATED AS THE BRAKE LIGHTS FAILED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A PRIVATE MECHANIC WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE STOP LAMP SWITCH NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER : 13V114000 (EXTERIOR LIGHTING , SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC). THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 25,848. *TR

ODI #10508087EXTERIOR LIGHTING

THE HEADLIGHTS OF THE VEHICLE HAVE STRESS CRACKS THAT WILL ALLOW MOISTURE TO ENTER THE ASSEMBLY. THIS MOISTURE WILL CAUSE THE BULB INSIDE THE ASSEMBLY TO FAIL. I HAVE ASKED FOR ASSISTANCE FROM THE ROUNTREE MOORE KIA, AS WELL AS KIA OF NORTH AMERICA TO ADDRESS THIS PROBLEM. I HAVE BEEN TOLD BY BOTH THAT THERE IS NO ACTION THEY WILL TAKE TO CORRECT THIS ISSUE. *TR

ODI #10477521STEERING

2009 KIA SPORTAGE. CONSUMER STATES PROBLEM WITH VEHICLE STEERING *TGW THE CONSUMER STATED WHEN TURNING, THE STEERING WHEEL WOULD LOCK UP. THE CONSUMER STATED THE DEALER WAS UNABLE TO FIX THE PROBLEM.

ODI #10456770POWER TRAIN

AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION "BURNED OUT" (DEALER'S WORDS) WHILE DRIVING THRU PIEDMONT HILLS OF NORTH CAROLINA. PROBLEM STARTED AROUND 60MPH AND BECAME SERIOUS AT 70 MPH, THE SPEED LIMIT WHERE THE PROBLEM OCCURRED. CRUISE CONTROL TURNED OFF ON ITS OWN. AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION DID NOT SHIFT EVENLY OR SMOOTHLY. VEHICLE STRAINED AND LOST POWER ON HILLS AND OVERPASSES. ENGINE "REVVED UP" UNCHARACTERISTICALLY HIGH ON BACK SIDE OF HILLS, HAD TO PRESS GAS TO DECREASE RPMS. CHECK ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON DURING RETURN TRIP, GEAR STICK SHIFTED TO + - POSITION ON ITS OWN. VEHICLE OPERATED OKAY AT SPEEDS BELOW 55 MPH AND ON LEVEL GROUND, EVEN WHEN ACCELERATING FROM A STOP. *TR

ODI #10346644AIR BAGS

AT TIMES WHILE DRIVING DOWN THE HIGHWAY,THE PASSENGER SIDE AIR BAG WILL DISENGAGE ITSELF BECAUSE OF MOVEMENT IN THE SEAT. SO,I END UP PULLING OVER AND RESTART THE CAR SO THAT THE LIGHT ON THE DASH,TELLING ME THE AIR BAG ISN'T SET, RESETS TO THE ON POSITION. SOMETIMES I MAY NOT NOTICE IT RIGHT AWAY. IT HAS HAPPENED NUMEROUS TIMES. AFTER REPORTING IT TO THE DEALERSHIP TWICE,THEY KEEP TELLING ME THAT NOT ONLY CAN THEY NOT MAKE IT MORE SENSITIVE,BUT THAT THE PASSENGER MUST SIT PROPERLY IN THEIR SEAT. OVER TIME,PEOPLE TEND TO SHUFFLE ABOUT IN THEIR SEAT AND THEREFORE I FOUND THAT IT IS IMPOSSIBLE TO EXPECT SOMEONE TO SIT STILL FOR A LONG DRIVE.I HAVE BEEN TOLD TO ASK THE PASSENGER TO REPOSITION THEMSELVES IN THEIR SEAT AND THE AIR BAG WILL RESET,SOMETIMES IT DOES,BUT FOR THE MOST PART, I END UP PULLING THE CAR OVER AND RESTARTING THE ENGINE. AS,YOU CAN IMAGINE,IT HAS NOT ONLY BEEN A DISTRACTION ON THE HIGHWAY,BUT ALSO A BIG PAIN IN THE [XXX] . INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR

ODI #10344907VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 KIA SPORTAGE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING INTO A PARKING SPACE THE VEHICLE LUNGED FORWARD. HE STATED THAT THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL BECAME SO SENSITIVE THAT HE HAD TO USE EXTREME CAUTION WHEN DRIVING FORWARD, BACKWARDS OR WHEN THE ROAD WAS SLIGHTLY SLANTED. HE TOOK THE VEHICLE TO A KIA DEALER WHO INFORMED THE CONTACT THAT THE VEHICLE WAS DESIGNED THAT WAY. A DIAGNOSTIC TEST WAS PERFORMED; HOWEVER, IT DID NOT DETERMINE WHAT CAUSED THE FAILURE TO OCCUR. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 30. THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 1,900.

ODI #10336324STEERING

VEHICLE PULLS TO RIGHT, HAS BEEN REPORTED TO AND LOOKED AT BY JIM BUTLER KIA ST LOUIS, HAS BEEN BACK TO JIM BUTLER MANY TIMES SINCE FEBRUARY, THEY ARE UNABLE TO REPAIR IT, I BELIEVE MAY SAFETY IS COMPROMISED BY THIS CONDITION. *TR

ODI #10328170UNKNOWN OR OTHER

I BOUGHT A NEW KIA SPORTAGE & IT HAS BEEN IN THE SHOP 25 DAYS IN MARCH, 22 DAYS IN APRIL OF 2010. THE CAR DIES AS YOU ARE DRIVING & WHEN IT BEGINS TO GO IT HOPS & DOES NOT WANT TO GO. I HAVE HAS THIS CAR IN THE SHOP 6 TIMES SINCE THE END OF FEB. 2010. *TR

ODI #10321337FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

I BOUGHT A 2009 KIA SPORTAGE THAT HAS BEEN IN THE SHOP FOR ALL BUT 3 DAYS OF MARCH DUE TO THE CAR STALLING, STOPPING AND NOT GOING FORWARD WHEN YOU PRESS GAS PEDAL. WHILE THE DEALERSHIP HAS TRIED TO REPAIR THE CAR IS BECOING WORSE, THE DEALERSHIP WILL NOT HELP ME IN ANY WAY TO OBTAIN THE "LEMON LAW" FORMS NEEDED. I BOUGHT THE CAR AT PARSONS KIA, WINCHESTER, VA

ODI #10320303ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

I OWN A 2009 KIA SPORTSTER SUV AND ONLY IN CERTAIN SITUATIONS CAN ONE READ THE INSTRUMENTS INCLUDING THE SPEEDOMETER AND THE CLOCK. WHILE TRYING TO DETERMINE THE SPEED TO BE WITHIN THE SPEED LIMIT, IT TAKES SO LONG TO GET INTO A POSITION TO READ THE SPEEDOMETER THAT ONE CAN EASILY CROSSOVER INTO THE ONCOMING LANE OR OFF THE ROAD. AT NIGHT THE PANELS ARE VERY VISIBLE AND I MIGHT SAY ATTRACTIVE BUT DURING DAYLIGHT HOUSE THEY ARE USELESS. I REMOVED THE BLACK HOUSING SURROUNDING THE INSTRUMENT PANEL AND PAINTED IT SILVER. THIS HAS HELPED SOME BUT THE PANEL CAN ONLY BE READ AT TIMES WHEN THE EXTERNAL LIGHTING IS JUST RIGHT. I HAVE NOTIFIED KIA DEALERSHIP AND HOME OFFICE WITH ZERO RESPONSE.*TR

ODI #10317125SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

I WAS DRIVING 30 MPH AND THE ROAD STARTED TO SLOPE DOWNWARDS, SO I STARTED TO BRAKE TO SLOW DOWN. THE CAR DID NOT STOP. BRAKES MADE A GRINDING NOISE BUT DID NOT STOP THE VEHICLE. I DROVE STRAIGHT INTO THE INTERSECTION. *TR

ODI #10298568TRACTION CONTROL SYSTEM

TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 KIA SPORTAGE WHICH WAS PURCHASED IN SEPTEMBER 2009. HE STATED THAT THE TRACTION CONTROL WAS DANGEROUS AND IF THERE WAS VERY LITTLE WHEEL SLIP, THE ENGINE WOULD SLOW DOWN ALMOST TO A STALL AND THE RPMS WOULD IDLE VERY HIGH. THE TRACTION CONTROL WOULD NOT ALLOW HIM TO DEPRESS THE ACCELERATOR WHILE FUNCTIONING . HIS CONCERN WAS THAT FOLLOWING VEHICLES WOULD NOT BE AWARE OF THE VEHICLE SLOWING DOWN AND COULD POTENTIALLY CRASH INTO THE REAR OF THE VEHICLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED AND COULD NOT ASSIST WITH HIS CONCERNS. HE WANTED TO HAVE THE TRACTION CONTROL SHUT OFF; HOWEVER, THAT WAS NOT AN OPTION. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGES WERE UNDER 5,522.

ODI #10289796STEERING,FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 KIA SPORTAGE. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 6 MPH HE EXPERIENCED DIFFICULT STEERING. ALSO THE VEHICLE FAILED TO CONVEY TO THE FUEL ECONOMY RECOMMENDED STANDARDS OF 16 TO 24 MPG FOR IN THE CITY DRIVING. THE VEHICLE MAINTAINED A FUEL ECONOMY OF 12 MPG. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER FOR INSPECTION. THE TECHNICIAN STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS NEW, AND MUST ATTAIN 4,000 MILEAGE FOR RESOLUTION TO THE MALFUNCTIONS. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON FIVE SEPARATE OCCASIONS FOR THE IDENTICAL FAILURES IN WHICH THERE WERE NO RESOLUTIONS. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 130. THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 779. UPDATED 11/10/09 *BF UPDATED 11/13/09.*JB

Component Failure Cascade Risk

Known patterns where one defect leads to more severe downstream failures

HighABS issue detected

Loss of brake assist and ABS in emergency — can significantly extend stopping distances

HighTRANSMISSION issue detected

Complete transmission failure — repair costs $3,000–$8,000+; vehicle may become undriveable

Complaint & Reliability Timeline

Annual complaints (blue) vs. composite reliability score (amber) — recall years marked in red

Annual complaints and reliability score for KIA Sportage — recall years marked in red
0510050100201620132009201120132015201720192021202320252026Complaints/yrReliability (0–100)
Annual complaints (left axis)
Reliability score 0–100 (right axis, higher = safer)
Crash-involved complaints that year
Recall issued
Chart Analysis

The blue line shows 80 total NHTSA complaints filed over 15 years, with the worst year being 2015 (10 complaints, including 1 crash report).

The amber reliability line shows an improving trend — scores have risen from the earlier years toward 73/100 more recently, suggesting the most serious issues are older and may have been addressed through repairs or recalls.

The red dashed lines mark recall issuance — the first recall came 4 years after owners began filing complaints, a lag that indicates the manufacturer was slow to formally acknowledge these problems.

Red dots on the amber line flag 3 years (2015, 2018, 2019) where complaints included crash events — these are the highest-severity incidents in the dataset.

Details & Analysis
Financial

5-Year Total Cost of Ownership

Estimated based on EPA fuel data, risk-adjusted maintenance, and depreciation

$53,614
~$894/mo over 5 yrs
$0.3/mi
cost per mile
Fuel
$10,000
Insurance (est.)
$7,500
Maintenance
$25,000
Repair Risk Buffer
$6,000
Depreciation
$5,114

Estimated 5-year cost of ownership: $53,614 (~$894/mo). Repair risk buffer is standard due to vehicle risk profile.

Negotiation Ammunition

Use these data-backed findings to negotiate the price down

3 open recalls (unverified repair status)−$1,500
2 recalls over 2 years old — likely uncompleted−$800
Total recommended deduction−$2,300

Pre-Purchase Inspection Checklist

Tailored for the 2009 KIA Sportage — specific failure modes your mechanic must check, not a generic list

1 critical inspection item must be resolved before purchase. Do not skip these checks.
CRITICAL
Inspect engine bay for heat damage, melted wiring, and fire suppressor residue
This model has a high fire risk signal from recalls or complaints. Look for signs of prior heat events near the engine or battery.
HIGH
Inspect for abs issue detected — ask for repair records
Loss of brake assist and ABS in emergency — can significantly extend stopping distances
HIGH
Inspect for transmission issue detected — ask for repair records
Complete transmission failure — repair costs $3,000–$8,000+; vehicle may become undriveable
HIGH
Verify recall ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING has been repaired
Recall on record for: Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain model year 2008-2009 Kia Sportage vehicles manufactured August 9, 2007, to
HIGH
Verify recall EXTERIOR LIGHTING:BRAKE LIGHTS:SWITCH has been repaired
Recall on record for: Kia Motors Corporation (Kia) is recalling certain model year 2007-2010 Rondo, model year 2007-2011 Sedona, Sorento and S
HIGH
Verify recall SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP:CONTROL UNIT/MODULE has been repaired
Recall on record for: Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2008-2009 Sportage vehicles previously recalled under recall 16V-815. An e
MEDIUM
Test drive and inspect: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
Multiple owner complaints filed for this component — verify it functions correctly during test drive.
MEDIUM
Test drive and inspect: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Multiple owner complaints filed for this component — verify it functions correctly during test drive.
MEDIUM
Test drive and inspect: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
Multiple owner complaints filed for this component — verify it functions correctly during test drive.
MEDIUM
Get an independent pre-purchase inspection from a trusted mechanic
For any used vehicle with a risk score above Low, a $100–$150 independent inspection is always worth it.
MEDIUM
Run a VIN check on NHTSA.gov to confirm all recalls are closed
Free at nhtsa.gov/vehicle-safety/recalls — enter the VIN and confirm all campaigns show as completed.
MEDIUM
Verify title is clean and check for salvage/rebuilt brands at your state DMV
Title washing across state lines is common — confirm with your state DMV before finalizing purchase.

Recall Probability Forecast

Estimated likelihood of a new recall in the next 18 months based on NHTSA signals

5%
18-month
10%
2-year
Low Probability
Cumulative 2-year risk: 10%

5% baseline recall probability — no strong indicators of an imminent recall.

Maintenance Schedule

OEM-specified service intervals for this vehicle

Maintenance intervals vary significantly by make, model, year, engine, and driving conditions. Always follow the manufacturer's official schedule — not generic industry estimates.

Tip: Request the seller's service records and compare against the manufacturer schedule. Missing intervals are a negotiation point.

History & Auctions

Auction History

Public sale records from Copart, IAAI, and auction aggregators

Searching Public Auction Records

Checking Copart, IAAI, BidFax, and other sources for KNDJE723297650216. Results appear automatically when found.

Insurance Cost Estimate

Estimated annual premiums based on vehicle profile, theft data, and NHTSA safety ratings

Full Coverage
$1,210–$1,540/yr
~$101–$128/mo
Liability Only
$530–$680/yr
~$44–$57/mo
Category: Mainstream
17-year-old vehicle: −28% (lower ACV reduces comprehensive/collision cost)

Based on 2024 national avg ($2,011/yr full coverage). Individual rates vary by driver, location & insurer. Always compare 3+ quotes.

Manufacturer NHTSA Penalty History

Federal fines issued for recall delays and safety violations

KIA has been fined $27M+ by NHTSA. Most recently in 2020: Failure to promptly conduct recalls for Theta II engine defect.

2020$27MFailure to promptly conduct recalls for Theta II engine defect

State-Specific Legal Protections

What consumer laws apply to this vehicle purchase in your state

Select your state to see what consumer protection laws, lemon law coverage, and title disclosure requirements apply to this vehicle purchase.

Complete Data Table

All decoded fields in a single flattened view

Vehicle Identity

VINKNDJE723297650216
Model Year2009
MakeKIA
ModelSportage
TrimKM
Vehicle TypeMULTIPURPOSE PASSENGER VEHICLE (MPV)

Body & Configuration

Body StyleSport Utility Vehicle (SUV)/Multi-Purpose Vehicle (MPV)
Doors4
Drive Type4WD/4-Wheel Drive/4x4
Fuel TypeGasoline

Engine

Engine Cylinders6
Displacement (L)2.7

Manufacturer

ManufacturerKIA CORPORATION
Assembly CityGWANGJU
Assembly CountrySOUTH KOREA

VIN Structure

WMI (Chars 1–3)KND
Check Digit (Char 9)2
Model Year Code (Char 10)9
Plant Code (Char 11)7
Sequence (Chars 12–17)650216

Safety Data

NHTSA Recall Count3
NHTSA Complaint Count80

VIN Structure Decode

ISO 3779 character-by-character breakdown of this Vehicle Identification Number

K
1
N
2
D
3
J
4
E
5
7
6
2
7
3
8
2
9
9
10
7
11
6
12
5
13
0
14
2
15
1
16
6
17
WMI (1–3)
VDS (4–8)
Check Digit (9)
Model Year (10)
Serial (11–17)
K
World Manufacturer
Country & region of manufacture
Position 1
N
Manufacturer
Specific manufacturer identifier
Position 2
D
Vehicle Type
Division or vehicle type
Position 3
JE723
Vehicle Descriptor Section (VDS)
Body style, engine type, restraint system
Position 4–8
2
Check Digit
Mathematical validation character
Position 9
9
Model Year
Year of manufacture
Position 10
7
Assembly Plant
Where the vehicle was assembled
Position 11
650216
Production Sequence
Unique serial number for this vehicle
Position 12–17
Country of Manufacture
South Korea
From VIN position 1 (K)
Model Year Character
"9" → 2009
Unambiguous model year
Check Digit (Pos 9)
✓ Valid
ISO 3779 weighted-sum algorithm
Research This Model

Disclaimer: Data sourced from NHTSA public APIs and scraped auction listings. For informational purposes only. Not a substitute for a paid vehicle history report. Retrieved: 6/11/2026, 8:03:25 PM.