1999 Kia Sportage: jerking or lurching

Filed Apr 2, 2002 · Brakes, Electrical · WI

I purchased my kia sportage 4x4 brand new in july of 1999 since I day I drove it off the lot it has been a constant source of stress and frustration. Shortly after purchasing it the check engine light would continously come on and then the car would lurch and chug. Car was towed back to the dealership and it was kept there for apporoximately 2and a half weeks. It has also had problems where it wouldn't start due to corrosion on the starter clip . This has happened twice. I also had the windshield wipers stop working on the way home from work in a snow storm with my four year old son in the back. It also started making a loud rumbling noise that sounded like I was driving over speed bumps. This LED to them needing to replace the hubs, bearings, and axle shafts. Car only had approximately 33000 miles on it. At the same time I was told that the front brake pads and rotors were bad and needed to be replaced. This was at a cost of $400.00 to me. I have very strong safety concerns with this vehicle. I do not like having myself or my child in the vehicle for fear of what else is going to happen with it and will we survive to tell about it.

Filed Nov 15, 2000 · Fuel system · TX

When accelerating vehicle hesitates and jerks forward. Dealer has inspected vehicle, and determined that problem was with fuel injection electrical system. Manufacturer will be notified.

Filed Jun 15, 2000 · Acceleration, Body · AK

Throttle: car intermittently jerks in first and second gears. Service person at dealership has been present and experienced this and said throttle has problems, but problem continues to be unresolved. Technician says he can't duplicate it. This jerking occurs several times a week and after the car has warmed up. This is dangerous on the roads in the winter and can cause loss of control of the vehicle. Tailgate assembly has been repaired at least two times - it fails to shut properly - which allows exhaust fumes to enter vehicle. The tailgate has to be shut three or more times before finally closing. Problem has not been fixed. Same problem - not shutting properly - with passenger side rear doors. During the winter, inside of windows stayed "fogged up" preventing a clear view of traffic. Defrost failed to clear moisture inside vehicle. Dealership said this was normal.

Filed Mar 30, 2000 · Airbags, Tires · MA

Vehicle experienced the following problems: 1.) dealer replaced passenger's air bag due to an electrical short; 2.) front axle failed, causing vehicle to jerk while making a full left turn/ replaced by dealer, and 3.) front right tire was replaced because of a bubble on tire.

Filed Mar 1, 2000 · Transmission · OH

Consumer was sitting inside of vehicle and vehicle was in park when it jumped out of gear and jerked. It took both feet to make the car safe.