1998 Kia Sportage transmission problems

Filed Jan 23, 2005 · Transmission · VA

The 4wd system on the 98 kia sportage is unreliable. The vacuum system, which actuates the front hubs does not work. I have had the vehicle in for this problem every winter since I purchased the vehicle in 1998. The dealers repair lasts a week or so and then fails. Unexpected lack of 4wd is a safety issue.

Filed Dec 26, 2004 · Suspension, Transmission · 73,475 miles · WA · crash

Driving uphill in one inch of snow the axel hubs on the front of vehicle did not engage causing the loss of control of the steering, sliding sideways and backwards to a stop. The parts replaced were as follows: axel hub seals, axel bearings, upper ball joint, vacuum line and realignment of front end.

Filed Feb 19, 2004 · Transmission · 101,000 miles · NJ

The vehicles 4-wheel drive engaged sometimes then popped out causing a loud noise. The consumer found out about a hub seal recall and inquired about it at the dealer . The dealer indicated that the recall was performed by the manufacturer. The consumer looked under the hood for a red mark on the vacuum canister bracket but didn't see one. The consumer therefore believes that the recall has not been completed. *ak

Filed Dec 12, 2003 · Airbags, Electrical · CA

Vehicle had four recalls and airbag light kept flashing. Recalls were on brake hoses, front buckle assembly, electrical wiring and missing label. *la while driving the vehicle air bag light began to flash. The vehicle was taken to the dealer and the technician indicated that the air bag module had failed. While driving the vehicle's check engine light illuminated and the vehicle stalled. The vehicle was taken tot he dealer who indicated that the coils were cracked. Transmission line was leaking.

Filed Nov 4, 2003 · Transmission · 88,675 miles · AZ

Sunday, 11-02-2003, while driving on main st in mesa, arizona, our 1998 kia sportage's gearshift lever snapped off in my hand. I was shifting from second to third gear at the time. The break was about 1 1/2 inches from floor level, down inside the consol. I was lucky to be able to coast onto the median without crashing. My pregnant wife and three-year-old son were with me in the vehicle.I contacted kia and the short of it is that the vehicle is out of warranty and they claim that they don't have to do anything about this. I feel that this is a life-threatening defect. Kia should be very interested in finding out how or why a vehicle with no history of accidents could have this critical part break off unexpectedly! Not giving the brush-off! I have digital photos that I am willing to email.

Filed Jul 11, 2003 · Suspension, Transmission · MO

Consumer had recall for the rear axle and bearings remedied in 08/99. According to dealer's diagnostic, the components have failed again ,and could cause wheels to become detached from vehicle while driving.

Filed May 19, 2003 · Transmission · 85,000 miles · NH

After getting stuck in snow found that 4 wheel drive wasn't engaging - mechanic said due to someone over packing components with grease and a part put in backwards there was no way the 4 wheel drive was engaging. So essentially we haven't had 4 wheel drive since we purchased our vehicle in 2000. After the part was installed properly 4wd was engaging. May 16th brought in vehicle due to grinding noise in front wheel hub. Mechanic found 4wd hub rust filled and bad, bearings all rusted out, vacuum hoses to the back of the spindle broken both sides. Both front wheels had same problem. In checking your complaints on file there are many for the same problem, same year and vehicle.

Filed Apr 1, 2003 · Brakes, Transmission · 92,000 miles · MA

The 4 wheel drive did work and rear the brakes were not in line.

Filed Feb 10, 2003 · Transmission · TN

The 4-wheel drive did not hold while driving up a hill, which caused the vehicle to spin.

Filed Jan 9, 2003 · Transmission · WV

The 4 wheel drive does no engage when put in gear. Took to dealer who installed some type of child safety device under the clutch. Problem is still occurring. Please provide any further information. *nlm