Kia Sportage Years to Avoid – The Kia Sportage is a popular compact crossover SUV that has been in production since 1993. It has been a reliable and affordable choice for many car buyers over the years, but like any other vehicle, not all years are created equal. In this article, we will discuss the Kia Sportage years to avoid and the best years to buy.
Kia Sportage Years to Avoid
Before we dive into the best years to buy, it’s important to take a look at the Kia Sportage years to avoid.
These are the years that have had reliability issues, safety concerns, and other problems that make them less desirable for buyers.
2011 Kia Sportage
The 2011 Kia Sportage is one of the years to avoid due to its reported transmission problems. Many owners have reported issues with the transmission slipping or failing altogether, which can be a costly repair.
In addition to the transmission problems, the 2011 Sportage has had issues with the engine, electrical system, and brakes.
2013 Kia Sportage
The 2013 Kia Sportage has been reported to have a high number of engine problems. Owners have reported engine failure, stalling, and a lack of power, which can be dangerous while driving.
The 2013 Sportage has had issues with the brakes, suspension, and transmission.
2014 Kia Sportage
The 2014 Kia Sportage has had several reported issues with the engine and transmission. Owners have reported engine failure, transmission slipping, and rough shifting.
The 2014 Sportage has had problems with the electrical system, brakes, and steering.
Best Years for Kia Sportage
Now that we’ve covered the years to avoid, let’s take a look at the best years to buy. These are the years that have been reliable, safe, and overall a great choice for buyers.
2017 Kia Sportage
The 2017 Kia Sportage is one of the best years to buy due to its reliability and safety features. It has a solid reputation for being a reliable vehicle and has received high marks in crash tests.
The 2017 Sportage comes with a variety of standard safety features, such as a rearview camera, blind spot monitoring, and lane departure warning.
2018 Kia Sportage
The 2018 Kia Sportage is another great year to buy. It has the same reliable engine and safety features as the 2017 model but also comes with an updated infotainment system that includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The 2018 Sportage has a spacious interior and comfortable ride.
2020 Kia Sportage
The 2020 Kia Sportage is a great choice for buyers who are looking for a more modern vehicle. It has an updated exterior design and comes with a variety of advanced safety features, such as forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and pedestrian detection.
The 2020 Sportage also has a smooth and responsive ride.
Common Problems With Kia Sportage
In addition to the years to avoid and the best years to buy, the Kia Sportage may also experience some common problems that owners should be aware of.
These problems may occur in any year model of the vehicle and may require repairs or maintenance to resolve. Here are three common problems with the Kia Sportage:
1. Engine Failure
Engine failure is a common problem that can occur in Kia Sportage models. This can be caused by a variety of issues, such as a malfunctioning oil pump, worn bearings, or a damaged crankshaft.
Symptoms of engine failure may include a knocking sound, low oil pressure, or a warning light on the dashboard. If engine failure occurs, it may be necessary to replace or rebuild the engine, which can be a costly repair.
2. Windows and Windshield Problems
Another common problem that owners of the Kia Sportage may experience is issues with the windows and windshield.
This may include power windows that fail to operate, windows that become stuck or won’t roll up or down, or a windshield that develops cracks or chips.
In some cases, the window or windshield may need to be replaced, which can also be a costly repair.
3. Interior Accessories / Electrical Problems
Many Kia Sportage owners have reported issues with the interior accessories and electrical system. This may include problems with the air conditioning or heating system, the stereo or sound system, or the power locks or windows.
Electrical problems can be difficult to diagnose and repair and may require a skilled mechanic or electrician to resolve.
What to Look for When Buying A Kia Sportage
When buying a Kia Sportage, there are several factors to consider. These include:
1. Mileage
Like any other vehicle, the mileage of a Kia Sportage is an important factor to consider. Higher mileage vehicles may have more wear and tear, which can lead to more repairs and maintenance.
2. Condition
The condition of the Kia Sportage is also important to consider. Look for any signs of damage or rust, and make sure that all of the features and functions are working properly.
3. History
Check the vehicle’s history report to see if it has been in any accidents or had any major repairs. This can give you an idea of any potential issues the vehicle may have in the future.
4. Maintenance Records
It’s also a good idea to check the maintenance records of the Kia Sportage you are interested in. This can give you an idea of how well the previous owner took care of the vehicle and if any major repairs have been done.
5. Test Drive
Finally, take the Kia Sportage for a test drive to see how it handles on the road. Pay attention to the steering, brakes, and suspension, and listen for any strange noises or vibrations.
How Long Does The Average Kia Sportage Last?
The average lifespan of a Kia Sportage can vary depending on factors such as maintenance, driving habits, and climate. With proper care and maintenance, a Kia Sportage can last for up to 200,000 miles or more.
Is Kia Sportage Expensive To Maintain?
The cost of maintaining a Kia Sportage can vary depending on the model year, mileage, and any repairs that may be needed. Overall, the Kia Sportage is considered to be an affordable vehicle to maintain compared to other SUVs in its class.
Does Kia Sportage Have a Lot Of Problems?
While some years of the Kia Sportage have been reported to have issues, overall the vehicle is considered to be a reliable choice for car buyers. Like any vehicle, it may experience some common problems such as engine failure, window and windshield issues, and electrical problems.
With proper care and maintenance, these issues can often be prevented or resolved.
Is the Kia Sportage a reliable car?
Yes, the Kia Sportage is generally considered to be a reliable car. The vehicle has a strong reputation for durability and is backed by a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty.
Which Hyundai is the same as Sportage?
The Hyundai Tucson is a similar vehicle to the Kia Sportage, as both are compact SUVs that share a platform and many components.
What is the top-of-the-line Sportage?
The top-of-the-line Kia Sportage is the SX Turbo trim level. It comes with a turbocharged engine, all-wheel drive, and features such as leather upholstery, a panoramic sunroof, and a premium sound system.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Kia Sportage has been a reliable and affordable choice for many car buyers over the years.
However, not all years are created equal, and it’s important to know which years to avoid and which years are the best to buy.
The 2017, 2018, and 2020 Kia Sportage models are some of the best years to buy, while the 2011, 2013, and 2014 models should be avoided due to reported issues.
When buying a Kia Sportage, make sure to consider factors such as mileage, condition, history, and maintenance records, and take the vehicle for a test drive to ensure it’s the right fit for you.