kia spectra Problems
kia spectra 2004 Complaints
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
while driving at any speed and no warning the automatic transmission, will not shifting properly when vehicle is changing gears. dealer has been notified. please provide further information. *nm
Reported in: SAN ANTONIO TX || Crash: N || VIN #: KNAFB121145
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:SENSOR/CONTROL MODULE
while the passenger seat was occupied air bag sensor appeared on the dashboard. vehicle was taken to the dealer for inspection, and mechanic determined that air bag sensor needed to be replaced. however, the mechanic was unable to locate the sensor. therefore, mechanic replaced the passenger's seat. the problem recurred. engineer informed consumer that the problem could not be duplicated. also, stated that if vehicle was involved in a frontal collision the air bags would deploy. *ak
Reported in: GLENDALE CA || Crash: N || VIN #: KNAFE121045
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
without any notice at all, and without any warning, while driving at any usual city speed, the automatic transmission will not shift gears properly, causing the car to stop gaining speed while in traffic. this seems to happen more when in stop-and-go type traffic. also, the transmission is very rough, "choppy" and gears slip often. he passenger seat belt will also lock permanently, with only a replacement fixing the problem.*ak
Reported in: OAK CREEK WI || Crash: N || VIN #:
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
i have had issues with my kia spectra where the transmission fails to shift into a higher gear when at a stop sign or light. i have to pump the gas or shift into neutral and back to drive to get it to shift.*ak
Reported in: NEENAH WI || Crash: N || VIN #:
AIR BAGS
we were involved in an accident our seat belts and airbags failed to work. we were both thrown into the windsheild . suffered injuries to back, head and neck. transported to hospital by ems. our vecicle 2004 kia septra 4 door was a total loss. *jb
Reported in: HIAWASSEE GA || Crash: Y || VIN #: KNAFB121145
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
while driving and upon pressing the brake pedal down, the vehicle surged forward. consumer took the vehicle to the dealer eight times. also, there was vibration in the steering which made a banging noise. *ak *jb
Reported in: ROME GA || Crash: N || VIN #: KNAFE121645
STEERING
while driving and upon pressing the brake pedal down, the vehicle surged forward. consumer took the vehicle to the dealer eight times. also, there was vibration in the steering which made a banging noise. *ak *jb
Reported in: ROME GA || Crash: N || VIN #: KNAFE121645
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
while driving and upon pressing the brake pedal down, the vehicle surged forward. consumer took the vehicle to the dealer eight times. also, there was vibration in the steering which made a banging noise. *ak *jb
Reported in: ROME GA || Crash: N || VIN #: KNAFE121645
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
on several instances my car has not shifted into a higher gear when taking off from a stop sign. i have taken the car to the dealer twice and they have not found anything wrong. this has happened on the following dates: 9/11, 9/12, 9/20, and twice on 9/23. *jb
Reported in: NEENAH WI || Crash: N || VIN #: KNAFB121745
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL
on an impact with another vehicle on the front end of this new car at approximately 40 miles and hour, the air bag on the drivers side failed to deploy.*ak
Reported in: BRISTOL TN || Crash: Y || VIN #: KNAFE121845
AIR BAGS
the dealer never disclosed the existence of the air bag sensor system. *nm the air bad posed a possible safety risk to consumers that were petite and weighed 125 pounds or less. *jb
Reported in: KIHEI HI || Crash: N || VIN #:
AIR BAGS
passenger side airbag sensors in 2004 spectra. *mr the air bag sensors in the front passenger seat did not always detect when adults were sitting there. *sc *jb
Reported in: KIHEI HI || Crash: N || VIN #:
SUSPENSION
when starting the vehicle there would be a heavy vibration in the steering wheel. dealership was notified, but did not resolve the problem. *ak
Reported in: SYRACUSE NY || Crash: N || VIN #: KNAFE122745
STEERING:HYDRAULIC POWER ASSIST SYSTEM
while driving at any speed steering wheel pulled to the left. dealership was notified, but did not resolve the problem. *ak
Reported in: CLEARLAKE CA || Crash: N || VIN #:
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:SENSOR/CONTROL MODULE
front air bag light doesn't consistently turn on when an individual is in the passenger seat. *bf the consumer was told by the dealer that the air bag system activates at approximately 125 pounds. the consumer and passenger are both underweight to activate the system. *tc *jb
Reported in: KIHEI HI || Crash: N || VIN #:
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:SENSOR/CONTROL MODULE
2004 kia spectra ex experienced air bag warning light problems. person in passenger seat system not recognizing them. *bf the consumer was informed that there was nothing the mechanic could do to remedy the problem. the air bag light did not consistently turn on when individuals were in the passenger seat. *sc
Reported in: KIHEI HI || Crash: N || VIN #: KNAFE121645
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
the vehicle would not accelerate more than 50 miles per hour. the consumer took the vehicle to the repair, but the problem still continued. *jb
Reported in: SCHAUMBURG IL || Crash: N || VIN #: KNAFB121145
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
i was stopped in traffic at a light and upon the light turning green i pushed the accelerator and my tachometer needle went up to 4 and higher until i took my foot off the gas. upon pushing the gas pedal again it did the same thing (in the middle of traffic) and i had to shift into neutral while going about 35 mph and back into drive. my kia still didn't want to shift so i put it back into neutral again and pushed the gas pedal to rev the rpms and then put back into drive and it drove ok. this happened a few months after buying the car and the kia dealer said nothing was wrong with vehicle. it continues to happen unpredictably.*ak
Reported in: PORT ORANGE DE || Crash: N || VIN #: KNAFB161X45
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
while driving at any speed vehicle cut off. consumer had the vehicle serviced, but mechanic could not duplicate the problem.*ak
Reported in: WEST COLUMBIA SC || Crash: N || VIN #: KNAFB121445
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:ACCELERATOR PEDAL
while driving at any speed the vehicle, suddenly accelerated uncontrollably. driver was able to maintain control of the vehicle, and drove it to the dealer for inspection. however, mechanic could not duplicate the problem. *ak
Reported in: BRONX NY || Crash: N || VIN #: KNAFE122745
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:SENSOR/CONTROL MODULE
my complaint is not a traditional "failure" as you are accustomed to receiving on your website. my complaint is that kia has redesigned the airbag module in their newly designed spectra model, and do not appear to have any plans for retro-fitting the new design to same model spectras manufactured before jan 2005. the new design was an improvement to allow the spectra to raise its "poor" offset iihs frontal crash rating to something better. the new tests of the redesigned module upgraded offset frontal crash results to "acceptable". smaller venting holes in the airbag are described as the primary change. it is stated that the test car was indeed a 2004.5 model retrofitted with the new airbag module. my complaint is that if kia could retrofit an 2004.5 model at to obtain a new test from iihs, they should be willing to offer that module upgrade free-of-charge to purchasers of the 2004.5 and 2005 models built before jan 2005. see the links below for more of the specific iihs details. === iihs test with old airbag design resulting in a "poor" rating http://www.hwysafety.org/vehicle%5fratings/ce/html/0417.htm === iihs test with new airbag design resulting in a "acceptable" rating: http://www.hwysafety.org/vehicle%5fratings/ce/html/0502.htm . *ak ===
Reported in: CANTON MI || Crash: N || VIN #:
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
kia spectra 2004, consumer experienced problem of sudden acceleration. *bf the consumer had difficulty maintaining control of the vehicle. *jb
Reported in: BRONX NY || Crash: N || VIN #: KNAFE122745
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:LEVER AND LINKAGE:FLOOR SHIFT
the gear shift slipped out of drive into neutral and pulled to the right striking a parked car. extensive damage to both cars, no injuries however. in october of 2004 the transmission slipped out of drive as a truck was approaching while making a left turn. the car did move by putting gear shift into neutra as the driver tried anything to get out of the wayl. this car is on it's third transmission, with less than 10,000 miles on it. *ak
Reported in: SKOKIE IL || Crash: Y || VIN #: KNAFB121545
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
the gear shift slipped out of drive into neutral and pulled to the right striking a parked car. extensive damage to both cars, no injuries however. in october of 2004 the transmission slipped out of drive as a truck was approaching while making a left turn. the car did move by putting gear shift into neutra as the driver tried anything to get out of the wayl. this car is on it's third transmission, with less than 10,000 miles on it. *ak
Reported in: SKOKIE IL || Crash: Y || VIN #: KNAFB121545
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
transmission gear will not change. vehicle locked while in traffic. dealer was not able to duplicate the problem.*ak the transmission continued to lock up and produced a burning smell. *bf *nm
Reported in: CARROLLTON GA || Crash: N || VIN #: KNAFB121X45
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:CONTROL MODULE (TCM, PCM)
dt: consumer has filed a safety complaint #6259431 with federal trade commission. concerning automatic transmission failure on same issue as stated in odi #10125427. also, consumer spoke with the manufacturer kia motors. manufacturer said someone would be in contact with consumer within 3 days. it has been 2 weeks and consumer has not heard anything. consumer said that transmission shifted into a lower gear for no reason. last time vehicle was at dealer it would not go very fast, and the engine was very sluggish. consumer said that it was like trying to pull out in a higher gear than 1st or 2nd. gear. when driving on the highway at 70 mph the car would down shift to a low gear and it would drop to 35 mph. dealer indicated that something was making the vehicle drop into safe mode, which caused vehicle to stay in second gear. dealer replaced transmission control module (tcm), replaced the throttle body, and has done something to the grounds. in february the dealer replaced the transmission . currently they replaced the tcm, added a new computer , and adjusted linkage cables for transmission. however, consumer maintained that problem became worse. *ak
Reported in: WHITE GA || Crash: N || VIN #: KNAFB121245
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
dt: consumer has filed a safety complaint #6259431 with federal trade commission. concerning automatic transmission failure on same issue as stated in odi #10125427. also, consumer spoke with the manufacturer kia motors. manufacturer said someone would be in contact with consumer within 3 days. it has been 2 weeks and consumer has not heard anything. consumer said that transmission shifted into a lower gear for no reason. last time vehicle was at dealer it would not go very fast, and the engine was very sluggish. consumer said that it was like trying to pull out in a higher gear than 1st or 2nd. gear. when driving on the highway at 70 mph the car would down shift to a low gear and it would drop to 35 mph. dealer indicated that something was making the vehicle drop into safe mode, which caused vehicle to stay in second gear. dealer replaced transmission control module (tcm), replaced the throttle body, and has done something to the grounds. in february the dealer replaced the transmission . currently they replaced the tcm, added a new computer , and adjusted linkage cables for transmission. however, consumer maintained that problem became worse. *ak
Reported in: WHITE GA || Crash: N || VIN #: KNAFB121245
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL
dt: the consumer's attorney stated that during a frontal crash the airbags did not deploy. there was a front end collision into three cement culverts. there was a police report filed. the consumer's son was driving and he passed away. a lawsuit was filed against the manufacturer, but they did not have any information as to why the airbags did not deploy.*ak
Reported in: SALADO TX || Crash: Y || VIN #: KNAFE121X45
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
speedometer will occasionally quit working while driving, sometimes will quit altogether-other times will jerk around-dealer has been unable to duplicate
Reported in: CLINTON MT || Crash: N || VIN #:
SEATS
dt: 2004 kia spectra. the consumer states the passenger seat has a feature that has a light that comes on if the person in the seat is less than 90 pounds, stating the airbag is off. this light comes on when there is an adult in the seat. the vehicle has been taken to the dealership, the seat was sent to houston, and it was recalibrated. the seat was doing the same thing, and nothing could be done until the dealership talked to a kia representative. this problem occurred since the purchase of the vehicle.*ak *jb
Reported in: GRAND CHENIER LA || Crash: N || VIN #: KNAFE121345
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:SENSOR/CONTROL MODULE
dt: 2004 kia spectra. the consumer states the passenger seat has a feature that has a light that comes on if the person in the seat is less than 90 pounds, stating the airbag is off. this light comes on when there is an adult in the seat. the vehicle has been taken to the dealership, the seat was sent to houston, and it was recalibrated. the seat was doing the same thing, and nothing could be done until the dealership talked to a kia representative. this problem occurred since the purchase of the vehicle.*ak *jb
Reported in: GRAND CHENIER LA || Crash: N || VIN #: KNAFE121345
SEAT BELTS:FRONT:RETRACTOR
there was no indication prior to the accident that there was anything wrong with the driver's seat belt. my husband and i were in an accident, i was in the front passenger's seat and he was driving. my seat belt locked and his didn't allowing him to be thrown into the steering wheel, this left him with a severely bruised ribcage. the seat belts were both replaced as part of the damages to the car. i was told by the dealership that this is standard procedure after an accident. the driver's seat belt obviously did not work properly, and i feel that it should have since i have only owned the car a little longer than a year. *nm
Reported in: NEW MARKET TN || Crash: Y || VIN #: KNAFE121445
SEAT BELTS:FRONT
i had no indication that my seat belt or airbag were faulty. while driving at 40 mph i struck a car that turned left directly in front of me. my seat belt failed to lock and i was lifted out of the seat and hit my head, shoulder, and hip on the left side of my car. the airbag did not inflate. the insurance adjuster could not believe that the airbag didn't inflate considering the force of the impact. *jb
Reported in: TUCSON AZ || Crash: Y || VIN #: KNAFE122345
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL
i had no indication that my seat belt or airbag were faulty. while driving at 40 mph i struck a car that turned left directly in front of me. my seat belt failed to lock and i was lifted out of the seat and hit my head, shoulder, and hip on the left side of my car. the airbag did not inflate. the insurance adjuster could not believe that the airbag didn't inflate considering the force of the impact. *jb
Reported in: TUCSON AZ || Crash: Y || VIN #: KNAFE122345
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
dt: the consumer stated that her transmission seemed to be slipping. she had taken the vehicle to dealership three times to be examined. the dealership could not find the cause of the problem. the consumer stated that the problem occurred between 20-40 mph. this was an intermittent problem but occurred more frequently. when this happened the consumer had to pull the vehicle over and place the vehicle in park then back to drive. even though there was a temporary fix, the vehicle was still hard to pull over when in traffic. the consumer had been in contact with kia, and they took her information and had the dealership call her back. when the consumer was at the dealer, they simply examined the vehicle, then gave it back to the consumer and told her that there was nothing they can find that is wrong. the dealership made the uncomfortable when they treated her like she made up the problem. the consumer is considered applying for the lemon law in her state. *ak (12/08/05) the rpms would increase but the vehicle would not go faster. kia replaced the computer board in relation to the transmission. *sc updated 1/25/2006 - *nm
Reported in: SNOHOMISH WA || Crash: N || VIN #: KNAFB121945
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
dt: the consumer stated that her transmission seemed to be slipping. she had taken the vehicle to dealership three times to be examined. the dealership could not find the cause of the problem. the consumer stated that the problem occurred between 20-40 mph. this was an intermittent problem but occurred more frequently. when this happened the consumer had to pull the vehicle over and place the vehicle in park then back to drive. even though there was a temporary fix, the vehicle was still hard to pull over when in traffic. the consumer had been in contact with kia, and they took her information and had the dealership call her back. when the consumer was at the dealer, they simply examined the vehicle, then gave it back to the consumer and told her that there was nothing they can find that is wrong. the dealership made the uncomfortable when they treated her like she made up the problem. the consumer is considered applying for the lemon law in her state. *ak (12/08/05) the rpms would increase but the vehicle would not go faster. kia replaced the computer board in relation to the transmission. *sc updated 1/25/2006 - *nm
Reported in: SNOHOMISH WA || Crash: N || VIN #: KNAFB121945
STEERING:LINKAGES:KNUCKLE:SPINDLE:ARM
dt: the contact pesumes that the spindle broke on the wheel while driving 45 mph. the vehicle pulled o the left. he pulled over, checked the vehicle and discovered that spindle was broken. he called the dealership with hopes of buying a new spindle. the car came with drum brakes, and when the dealer looked up the vin the computer showed that the vehicle should have been equipped with disc brakes. the dealership was unable to find a new spindle for the vehicle because of the brake issue.*ak updated 11/29/2005 - the spindle was provided bythe dealer on nov 1, 2005. after that day other parts were needed. *nm
Reported in: TRUJILLO ALTO PR || Crash: Y || VIN #: KNAFE121145
AIR BAGS
dt: the contact's daughter was driving at 40 mph and she ran a stop sign. she hit another vehicle head on. upon impact, the air bags did not deploy. seat belts were in use. the vehicle was totaled. the manufacturer was contacted. *ak
Reported in: LONG MONT CO || Crash: Y || VIN #: KNAFB121445
VISIBILITY:POWER WINDOW DEVICES AND CONTROLS
dt*: the contact stated when the vehicle is idling, it idles low and then revs up on it's own. the dealership replaced the main solenoid in the transmission. the problem returned, and the dealership is unable to diagnose a problem. also, two weeks after purchase, the check engine light illuminated. the dealership replaced the fuel sensor and this problem was repaired. the front passenger side window would not operate, up or down. the dealership determined the cable was unhooked and repaired it.
Reported in: DENMARK WI || Crash: N || VIN #: KNAFB161645
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
dt*: the contact stated when the vehicle is idling, it idles low and then revs up on it's own. the dealership replaced the main solenoid in the transmission. the problem returned, and the dealership is unable to diagnose a problem. also, two weeks after purchase, the check engine light illuminated. the dealership replaced the fuel sensor and this problem was repaired. the front passenger side window would not operate, up or down. the dealership determined the cable was unhooked and repaired it.
Reported in: DENMARK WI || Crash: N || VIN #: KNAFB161645
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
dt*: the contact stated when the vehicle is idling, it idles low and then revs up on it's own. the dealership replaced the main solenoid in the transmission. the problem returned, and the dealership is unable to diagnose a problem. also, two weeks after purchase, the check engine light illuminated. the dealership replaced the fuel sensor and this problem was repaired. the front passenger side window would not operate, up or down. the dealership determined the cable was unhooked and repaired it.
Reported in: DENMARK WI || Crash: N || VIN #: KNAFB161645
AIR BAGS
problems began october 15, 2005 details of problems: 03/25/05 - a/c vents broken - dealer replaced "nozzle assy - ctr ai" 10/15/05 - check engine light is on - dealer states 'heater circuit malfunction' replaced "02 sensor assy" and reset codes 10/28/05 - check engine light is on and battery went dead (i had it jumped by aaa)- dealer cannot find problem 10/28/05 - emblem cracked on steering wheel - dealer states 'flaw in material' replaced driver side srs bag 11/29/05 - check engine light is on - dealer states p0442 gas cap not sealing & p0455 canister not sealing - dealer replaces gas cap and canister, also orders new ecm 11/29/05 - dealer recalled: sc053 reprogram ocs seat control and sc055 spectra air bag -dealer replaces items for recall 01/03/06 - check engine light is on - dealer states 'logic error in ecm - dealer replaced ecm 01/11/06 -check engine light is on - dealer states 'poor ground at ecm' was instructed by tech line to replace spark plugs; dealer repaired ground and replaced spark plugs 01/23/06 - engine light is on - dealer states problem at ecm - kept car for repairs 02/13/06 - dealer states that spectra cannot be repaired at this time. they also state that another car with a similar problem has been sent back to korea so that they can find the problem. dealer's estimated time to repair my car 2 months from now (has been at dealer since 01/23/06 - 20 days) as stated by keith emmerman, kia palmdale service manager. mr. emmerman also stated that i am required, as the spectra owner, to come pick up my car un-repaired and drive it anyway. i have been told by the kia dealership in palmdale, that the problem the kia is having is in the computer. they do not know how to fix it and want me to drive it any way. the car has been in the shop several times for different problems and now 3 times for the ecm. now they want me to pick up the car and drive it even though the problem has not been fixed and they don't know how to fix it. *nm
Reported in: QUARTZ HILL CA || Crash: N || VIN #: KNAFE122845
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
problems began october 15, 2005 details of problems: 03/25/05 - a/c vents broken - dealer replaced "nozzle assy - ctr ai" 10/15/05 - check engine light is on - dealer states 'heater circuit malfunction' replaced "02 sensor assy" and reset codes 10/28/05 - check engine light is on and battery went dead (i had it jumped by aaa)- dealer cannot find problem 10/28/05 - emblem cracked on steering wheel - dealer states 'flaw in material' replaced driver side srs bag 11/29/05 - check engine light is on - dealer states p0442 gas cap not sealing & p0455 canister not sealing - dealer replaces gas cap and canister, also orders new ecm 11/29/05 - dealer recalled: sc053 reprogram ocs seat control and sc055 spectra air bag -dealer replaces items for recall 01/03/06 - check engine light is on - dealer states 'logic error in ecm - dealer replaced ecm 01/11/06 -check engine light is on - dealer states 'poor ground at ecm' was instructed by tech line to replace spark plugs; dealer repaired ground and replaced spark plugs 01/23/06 - engine light is on - dealer states problem at ecm - kept car for repairs 02/13/06 - dealer states that spectra cannot be repaired at this time. they also state that another car with a similar problem has been sent back to korea so that they can find the problem. dealer's estimated time to repair my car 2 months from now (has been at dealer since 01/23/06 - 20 days) as stated by keith emmerman, kia palmdale service manager. mr. emmerman also stated that i am required, as the spectra owner, to come pick up my car un-repaired and drive it anyway. i have been told by the kia dealership in palmdale, that the problem the kia is having is in the computer. they do not know how to fix it and want me to drive it any way. the car has been in the shop several times for different problems and now 3 times for the ecm. now they want me to pick up the car and drive it even though the problem has not been fixed and they don't know how to fix it. *nm
Reported in: QUARTZ HILL CA || Crash: N || VIN #: KNAFE122845
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
problems began october 15, 2005 details of problems: 03/25/05 - a/c vents broken - dealer replaced "nozzle assy - ctr ai" 10/15/05 - check engine light is on - dealer states 'heater circuit malfunction' replaced "02 sensor assy" and reset codes 10/28/05 - check engine light is on and battery went dead (i had it jumped by aaa)- dealer cannot find problem 10/28/05 - emblem cracked on steering wheel - dealer states 'flaw in material' replaced driver side srs bag 11/29/05 - check engine light is on - dealer states p0442 gas cap not sealing & p0455 canister not sealing - dealer replaces gas cap and canister, also orders new ecm 11/29/05 - dealer recalled: sc053 reprogram ocs seat control and sc055 spectra air bag -dealer replaces items for recall 01/03/06 - check engine light is on - dealer states 'logic error in ecm - dealer replaced ecm 01/11/06 -check engine light is on - dealer states 'poor ground at ecm' was instructed by tech line to replace spark plugs; dealer repaired ground and replaced spark plugs 01/23/06 - engine light is on - dealer states problem at ecm - kept car for repairs 02/13/06 - dealer states that spectra cannot be repaired at this time. they also state that another car with a similar problem has been sent back to korea so that they can find the problem. dealer's estimated time to repair my car 2 months from now (has been at dealer since 01/23/06 - 20 days) as stated by keith emmerman, kia palmdale service manager. mr. emmerman also stated that i am required, as the spectra owner, to come pick up my car un-repaired and drive it anyway. i have been told by the kia dealership in palmdale, that the problem the kia is having is in the computer. they do not know how to fix it and want me to drive it any way. the car has been in the shop several times for different problems and now 3 times for the ecm. now they want me to pick up the car and drive it even though the problem has not been fixed and they don't know how to fix it. *nm
Reported in: QUARTZ HILL CA || Crash: N || VIN #: KNAFE122845
AIR BAGS:SIDE/WINDOW
2004 kia spectra on 3/20/06 was impacted on passenger side within the area of front and rear doors. the impact forced the rear of my car to slid away from impact and come in contact with a pickup truck damaging my drivers side rear quarter and not one air bag in my car deployed and there are 8 air bags in this model car. *jb
Reported in: EAST WAREHAM MA || Crash: Y || VIN #: KNAFE122745
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
dt*: the contact stated while shifting gears, the transmission lurches. the dealership determined the computer is not sending the proper signals to the transmission to shift gears. the dealership is unaware of how to repair the vehicle. updated 5/3/2006 - *nm *ak
Reported in: HAMBURG NY || Crash: N || VIN #: KNAFE122345
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
dt*: the contact stated while shifting gears, the transmission lurches. the dealership determined the computer is not sending the proper signals to the transmission to shift gears. the dealership is unaware of how to repair the vehicle. updated 5/3/2006 - *nm *ak
Reported in: HAMBURG NY || Crash: N || VIN #: KNAFE122345
SUSPENSION
dt*: the contact stated at all driving conditions the vehicle rocks back and fourth due to the suspension. at higher speeds the condition worsens. the dealership has been alerted however they are unable to duplicate the problem. the manufacturer has been alerted who went by what the dealership determined.
Reported in: SPOKANE WA || Crash: N || VIN #: KNAFE121X45
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:CRUISE CONTROL
electronic speed control fails to turn on occasionaly.
Reported in: GREENVILLE TX || Crash: N || VIN #:
AIR BAGS
2004 and a half kia spectra had the recall of the air bag light done, #05v431000. the light still comes on intermittently still. the dealer said that the airbag will still work if someone is sitting in the seat. happens too much. is it really safe. *jb
Reported in: NORTH WALES PA || Crash: N || VIN #: KNAFE121145
SEAT BELTS:FRONT:BUCKLE ASSEMBLY
the seat belt buckle housing on my 2004.5 kia spectra ex cracked, causing the seat belt not to latch.
Reported in: RACINE WI || Crash: N || VIN #: KNAFE121X45
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: SOFTWARE
tl*the contact owns a 2004 kia spectra. the air bag controller (electrical system) is located directly underneath the cup holders. the contact stated that liquid leaks out of the cups and onto the computer, which caused it to short. condensation also causes the computer that controls the air bag system to short. the contact previously replaced the electrical system at the cost of $800 and now it must be replaced again due to water entering into the computer system. the current mileage was 70,000 and failure mileage was 30,000.
Reported in: ST. ALBANS VT || Crash: N || VIN #: KNAFE121545
TIRES
on 10/27/06 (@ 30,048 miles) i purchased 4 tires (sumitomo htr h4; p195-60-r15; 87h m+s). rotation of these four tires occurred @ 34,917 miles. on 7/27/07 a driver's side tire went flat and was replaced where i originally purchased them. driving off the freeway damaged the tire into two pieces (sidewall still attached to rim), so determining what caused the flat was fruitless. next service occurred @ 41,640 miles and included rotation and alignment. then on 12/29/07, the rear passenger tire went flat, although the tread looked fine with no visible punctures. appx three hours later, the front passenger tire went flat and this time damage was visibly seen on outside sidewall of tire. again, no visible puncture on tread. i still have this tire.
Reported in: RIVERSIDE CA || Crash: N || VIN #: KNAFE122445
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
tl*the contact owns a 2004 kia spectra. when the brakes were applied, the engine revved and the vehicle accelerated automatically. the vehicle can only be stopped by being turned completely off. the dealer was unable to duplicate the failure. the current mileage was 34,000 and failure mileage was 33,600. updated 03-19-08 *bf the consumer stated the dealer inspected the vehicle and could not duplicate the defect. the consumer also stated problem has not happened again. updated 03/19/08
Reported in: PHILADELPHIA PA || Crash: N || VIN #: KNAFE121745
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:SENSOR/CONTROL MODULE
warning light for airbag on the speedometer panel stays on. dealer and kia tech first replaced passenger seat cover and drivers side seat buckle because they were shorted out. this did not solve the problem. they then said the problem was because of some fluid spilled on computer under cup holders in the center council. (why would anyone put a liquid sensitive product under a cup holder?) they stated that pin 3 on the computer connector was shorted out. i then pointed out that pin 3 was a ground pin. kia has had massive failures with their early airbag systems and have refused to fix an item that was the bases for choosing their product. kia has since introduced a new airbag product that seems to work flawlessly. this new product should be offered at no expense to those of us that were provided a inferior and unsafe product.
Reported in: BAKERSFIELD CA || Crash: N || VIN #: KNAFE121545
SUSPENSION:REAR
i have a 2004.5 kia spectra ex which around 44,000 miles started to have a rattling sound from the left front suspension. initially took it to the dealer, told that nothing was wrong. 4,000+ miles later, rattling worse, took back to dealer, told that the strut mount assembly was bad and that if i had brought it in sooner, it could have been fixed simply. of course i told them that i had brought it in sooner. now around 49,000 miles same noise from the right rear, have taken it in 3 times, was even told by the service manager that this problem with the strut mount / suspension was documented in the kia sorento and that he would replace the rear suspension assembly. whatever he did worked for appox. 1 week and now the rattling is back, and worse than before. of note, i was told by a previous service manager that the noise that i was hearing, that caused me to bring the car in 3 separate times was normal for this model. he told me that they had test driven some of their loaner spectras and had found that the sound was in all of them. not sure what that means. either way, 5yr / 60,000 mile warranty still in effect. i am documenting and going to bring this issue up to the service manager or general manager again to have this issue resolved.
Reported in: GROVETOWN GA || Crash: N || VIN #: KNAFE121545
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
tl*the contact owns a 2004 kia spectra. while driving 50 mph, the engine revved when the accelerator pedal was depressed. the failure occurred four times. the vehicle was taken to the dealer, but they were unable to find a defect. the failure mileage was 36,000 and current mileage was 40,000. updated 5/30/08 *cn the consumer stated the transmission slips from a stop it feels as though it is in neutral. updated 05/30/08
Reported in: DULUTH GA || Crash: N || VIN #: KNAFB121045
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
tl*the contact owns a 2004 kia spectra. while driving 50 mph, the engine revved when the accelerator pedal was depressed. the failure occurred four times. the vehicle was taken to the dealer, but they were unable to find a defect. the failure mileage was 36,000 and current mileage was 40,000. updated 5/30/08 *cn the consumer stated the transmission slips from a stop it feels as though it is in neutral. updated 05/30/08
Reported in: DULUTH GA || Crash: N || VIN #: KNAFB121045
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL
kia air bags did not deploy during front crash impact of about 40 mph.
Reported in: DALLAS TX || Crash: Y || VIN #: KNAFE121945
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL
front end collision, airbag did not deploy. 2004 kia spectra. it was hit by a truck at approx. 55 mph in the left front corner pushing everything into the motor area and the airbag did not deploy.
Reported in: LAWTON OK || Crash: Y || VIN #: KNAFB121845
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
my vehicle sputters while driving. there have been a few incidents where my vehicle has almost stalled on the freeway while i was driving in fast lane. i have taken my vehicle to the dealer at least 5 time in a 2 month window, and they claim that they cannot find anything wrong with my vehicle, so they are refusing to fix my vehicle or take all of the precautionary measures to repair my vehicle. the dealer claims that since they cannot find anything wrong with my vehicle, then there is nothing that they can do and i am just stuck with a defective vehicle, which has become unsafe to drive on the road.
Reported in: FONTANA CA || Crash: N || VIN #:
POWER TRAIN
the car will suddenly accelerate while driving. it will also lunge when shifting into gear, forward and reverse. it does not occur everytime the vehicle starts. we brought it to the dealership twice for this problem. the first time they said they couldn't duplicate the problem. the 2nd time they said that it is normal for rpm's to go up when the engine is cool. when the car lunges, the brakes have to be depressed as hard as possible to stop the car. it sounds like the same problem they had with the kia amanti.
Reported in: GOOSE CREEK SC || Crash: N || VIN #: KNAFE121445
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
tl*the contact owns a 2004 kia spectra. while slowing down for a red light or stop sign at any speed, the vehicle makes a loud noise and accelerates. the contact had to turn off the vehicle in order for the failures to stop. the failure began in january of 2008. the vehicle was taken to the dealer for a diagnostic, but the cause of the failure could not be determined. on november 9, 2008, while driving 5 mph in reverse, the vehicle accelerated and crashed into a tree. the contact was uninjured. the vehicle is currently at the body shop. the failure mileage was 28,000 and current mileage was 37,000. updated 12/17/08.*lj updated 12/18/08. *jb
Reported in: PHILADELPHIA PA || Crash: Y || VIN #: KNAFE121745
AIR BAGS
black ice on roads i ended up turned upside down in a six foot ditch. car has been totaled. no air bags deployed. upset that a crash like that the air bags would not deploy. what is the protocol for something like this?
Reported in: CLEVELAND TN || Crash: Y || VIN #:
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
my fiance's bought a kia spectra.... i have noticed for awhile that at freeway speeds its ok... getting to and coming down from freeway speeds however is a interesting time... the car for about 2-3 secs. revs and doesn't slam but seems to ease into gear then jerks forward... passing other vehicles is not done often due to this problem. and when getting on the off ramp the motor down shifts and revs. way to high then same as before eases into gear and jerks backwards. then while on city streets the transmission has a much larger stall before getting into gear 4-5 secs. and this time is slams into gear producing torque steer. i had her take it in and said they couldn't find anything. so i never further persuade it.. because nothing was going to be done. have worked at a dealership before. they did however see that the speedo would flip out and not work at sit at 40 mph at a dead stop then as you got to 20 mph it would climb insanely then sit there they have fixed it 3 times and the third seemed to be the charm. so i am wondering if there has been a recall about there transmissions. i don't remember when exactly when this happened but mileage was about 15k and still happens till this day at 58k. so i drive it because i worry for her safety and my sons.
Reported in: SOUTH MILWAUKEE WI || Crash: N || VIN #: KNAFE121345
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
my vehicle looses power, sputters, and hesitates when the accelerator is pressed. this has causes me to almost be in several accidents. the service dept cannot find a problem with my vehicle, but there is a problem that exists. i have filed several complaints with kia motors and have had no response and they have refused to assist me with any other type of help with my vehicle. my vehicle is defective, but since kia motors cannot find a problem, then they are claiming that there is nothing that can be done. this problem occurs at least once a day while driving when i am coming home from work and even on sunday's when i am coming home from church. the service dept is always closed when this occurs so i can't take it in. this problem has been occurring with my vehicle for approx. 2 years and i have had no success is getting a resolution to my problem.
Reported in: FONTANA CA || Crash: N || VIN #: KNAFE122745
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
the cruise control unit when engaged it accelerates on its own. or it tolally dis-engages on its own.
Reported in: TACOMA WA || Crash: N || VIN #: KNAFE122345
SEAT BELTS:INTEGRATED CHILD SEAT
evenflo triumph advance¿ lx convertible fails to perform basic carseat functions. actual carseat damages itself via razor sharp plastic openings where the latch system strap or vehicle restraint strap goes through the seat. we have been physically cut on this plastic along with the latch strap being frayed and cut beyond safe use. we have discontinued using the latch system but are concerned that the vehicle's safety restraint strap will also be frayed and become unsafe along with permanent damage to our vehicle. this plastic issues has resulted in gross safety issues on a constant basis. child can easily get out of the carseat regardless of strap tension every single use. the chest clip slips up and down too easily and child can simply, with 1 finger, slide the chest clip the to 5 point harness, wiggle arms and legs out and get into a standing position without much difficulty. no action has been taken by the manufacturer.
Reported in: SANTA MONICA CA || Crash: N || VIN #:
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
fuel tank straps rusting out. my fuel tank straps rusted out causing one to drag the ground making sparks! i looked over the car and nothing is rusted like the straps, the exsust is good the heat shield and the fuel lines are good just the fuel straps are so rusted to the point they snapped!
Reported in: BYRON CENTER MI || Crash: N || VIN #: KNAFE121645
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
fuel tank straps rusting out. my fuel tank straps rusted out causing one to drag the ground making sparks! i looked over the car and nothing is rusted like the straps, the exsust is good the heat shield and the fuel lines are good just the fuel straps are so rusted to the point they snapped!
Reported in: BYRON CENTER MI || Crash: N || VIN #: KNAFE121645
AIR BAGS
tl*the contact owns a 2004 kia spectra. the contact received a recall notice for recall 05v431000 (air bags) and the repair was performed. however, the air bag light illuminated again and stayed on. the passenger air bag sensor was non-functional. when someone sat in the passenger seat, the light did not illuminate indicating that the air bag was activated. the dealer stated that the failure could result in the air bag not deploying in an accident or it deploying at any time. the failure mileage was approximately 57,800. the current mileage was approximately 58,000.
Reported in: TUSCALOOSA AL || Crash: N || VIN #: KNAFE121945
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
i have a 2004 kia spectra that has an issue sticking in third gear. it started a month after i bought the car brand new. i noticed it when i first pulled out of a side street on to a main road and when i pushed on the accelerator the car was barely moving. thank god no on coming traffic was coming, cause yes i would of caused an accident. when i took it in to kia they said they could not find any issues. then a month or so later i was accelerating off an exit ramp and the transmission stuck in third gear. i had to pull off the side of the road. when i stepped on the brake it reset and i was off again. i again took it to kia and they kept it all day, but still said they could not find an issue. it felt like the car was in park and i was pressing on the gas. this has happen 6 more times, but kia says they have not found any issues on their computer. now the car has no warranty so i just live with it.
Reported in: YUMA AZ || Crash: N || VIN #: KNAFB121945
SEATS
tl* the contact owns a 2004 kia spectra. the contact stated that the seat track on the passenger side was located where the air bags were. she assumed that because the wires for the air bags were run close to the seat track, the air bags were disconnected when the seat was moved back and forth because the air bag light was illuminated. the contact called the local dealer who stated that the seat mechanism would have to be replaced. the vehicle was not repaired. the current mileage was approximately 140,000 and the failure mileage was approximately 110,000.
Reported in: SYLVA NC || Crash: N || VIN #: KNAFE121445
AIR BAGS
tl* the contact owns a 2004 kia spectra. the contact stated that the seat track on the passenger side was located where the air bags were. she assumed that because the wires for the air bags were run close to the seat track, the air bags were disconnected when the seat was moved back and forth because the air bag light was illuminated. the contact called the local dealer who stated that the seat mechanism would have to be replaced. the vehicle was not repaired. the current mileage was approximately 140,000 and the failure mileage was approximately 110,000.
Reported in: SYLVA NC || Crash: N || VIN #: KNAFE121445
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL
frontal impact at about 40 mph. none of the airbags deployed. suffered strained neck.
Reported in: THORNTON CO || Crash: Y || VIN #: KNAFE121345
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
kia spectra ex 2004.5. constantly stalls and engine races at any time and any speed. i am forced to place transmission in "n" when i aproach a stop sign. i avoid highways being afraid to stall at a high speed and cause a fatality to myself or another vehicle. problems started when vehicle was still under warranty. in a typical kia fashion i was told nothing was wrong.now out of warranty situation has got worse.my mechanic says is a design defect in the computer system or the fuel system. the internet is full with this same complaint from many spectra and another kia models owners. this deserve an investigation. a fatality may happen sooner or later. please, force kia to come forward about this issue. certainly they know what's wrong, but they always say "nothing is wrong". *tt
Reported in: FLORIDA FL || Crash: N || VIN #: KNAFE121945
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
tl* the contact owns a 2004 kia spectra. the contact stated that that a sizzling noise was heard coming from the dashboard. the vehicle was taken to the dealer who advised the contact that there was an electrical failure. the failure vehicle was previously repaired for the same failure, but the failure recurred. the manufacturer was not contacted. the failure mileage was 11,000 and the current mileage was 13,000.
Reported in: DETROIT MI || Crash: N || VIN #: KNASE121845
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
the warning light on the spectra 2005 4-door has been a problem from day 1. the light keeps going on and off. when i brought it back to the dealer on a number of occasions, the light went off so they were never able to determine the problem. now the light is permanently 'on' and i don't know if it is working or not. it is definitely a concern and it is a definitely a problem. in addition, the timing belt keeps loosening on a continual basis. i have repeatedly bought it to my mechanic to get it tightened. this should not be the case. the timing belt, once fixed, should remain in tact at least for a length of time (not a month!). that the warranty has expired, the light remains on. whatever, i have been very unhappy with the car. am disappointed. i realize the cost was a significant factor upon purchase, but my hyundai at the same cost break (actually lower) proved to be a significantly better car. i gave the hyundai to a friend of mine and it is keeps on ticking. it is still in service and runs better than the kia at over triple the mileage. in addition, the entire suspension replaced at 65,000 which is unusual as i do not drive the car hard and i avoid bumps.
Reported in: EASTCHESTER NY || Crash: N || VIN #: KNAFE122955
AIR BAGS
the warning light on the spectra 2005 4-door has been a problem from day 1. the light keeps going on and off. when i brought it back to the dealer on a number of occasions, the light went off so they were never able to determine the problem. now the light is permanently 'on' and i don't know if it is working or not. it is definitely a concern and it is a definitely a problem. in addition, the timing belt keeps loosening on a continual basis. i have repeatedly bought it to my mechanic to get it tightened. this should not be the case. the timing belt, once fixed, should remain in tact at least for a length of time (not a month!). that the warranty has expired, the light remains on. whatever, i have been very unhappy with the car. am disappointed. i realize the cost was a significant factor upon purchase, but my hyundai at the same cost break (actually lower) proved to be a significantly better car. i gave the hyundai to a friend of mine and it is keeps on ticking. it is still in service and runs better than the kia at over triple the mileage. in addition, the entire suspension replaced at 65,000 which is unusual as i do not drive the car hard and i avoid bumps.
Reported in: EASTCHESTER NY || Crash: N || VIN #: KNAFE122955
SUSPENSION
the warning light on the spectra 2005 4-door has been a problem from day 1. the light keeps going on and off. when i brought it back to the dealer on a number of occasions, the light went off so they were never able to determine the problem. now the light is permanently 'on' and i don't know if it is working or not. it is definitely a concern and it is a definitely a problem. in addition, the timing belt keeps loosening on a continual basis. i have repeatedly bought it to my mechanic to get it tightened. this should not be the case. the timing belt, once fixed, should remain in tact at least for a length of time (not a month!). that the warranty has expired, the light remains on. whatever, i have been very unhappy with the car. am disappointed. i realize the cost was a significant factor upon purchase, but my hyundai at the same cost break (actually lower) proved to be a significantly better car. i gave the hyundai to a friend of mine and it is keeps on ticking. it is still in service and runs better than the kia at over triple the mileage. in addition, the entire suspension replaced at 65,000 which is unusual as i do not drive the car hard and i avoid bumps.
Reported in: EASTCHESTER NY || Crash: N || VIN #: KNAFE122955
POWER TRAIN
i went into kroger's and picked up a few items. when i was done, i left the store and got back into my car to finish running some errands. i started my kia- spectra and she purred like a kitten- as usual. i put my car in reverse to back out of the parking space but my kia would move. i was pressing the peddle and my car did not move. i could hear the car revving up but i wasn't moving. to make a long story short- i had my kia towed to the dealership for an inspection and was told that i needed a new transmission and it would cost me between $2200-3600. i was devastated and shocked. my kia was working just fine. i never had any indicators that the vehicle was having problems. none of my dashboard indicator lights flash or light up. my car has been parked for the last three months because i could not afford to cover the repairs. i purchased my vehicle 4 years ago and have taken it to the dealer for all the regular scheduled maintenance to maintain a well-functioning vehicle. i was laid off from my job over 5 years ago. i paid $8,700 for my kia using monies from my prophet sharing to cut down on living expenses so that i could stay on top of things between jobs. i was assured by the dealer that my vehicle was certified and would remain in great condition if i kept up with the necessary vehicle maintenance. i did everything i was suppose to and my vehicle is no longer in service. the dealership i take my vehicle to for service, advised me to contact your organization and report my issues concerning my vehicle. my car should be on the recall list because this vehicle is prone to defective transmissions. i am on a fixed income and i need my car repair. please let me know if i can get my car repaired under a recall. [xxx] information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u.s.c. 552(b)(6).
Reported in: STERLING HEIGHTS MI || Crash: N || VIN #: KNAFB161445
AIR BAGS
tl* the contact owns a 2004 kia spectra. the contact stated while driving approximately 20 mph, the air bag warning light illuminated. the contact also stated months later the seat belt springs from the driver and passenger side exploded. the vehicle was not taken to the dealer for a diagnostic testing. the manufacturer was made aware of the failure and stated the vehicle was not included in any recalls. the vehicle was not repaired. the approximate failure mileage was 140,000 and the current failure mileage 143,000.
Reported in: RILIGH NC || Crash: N || VIN #: KNAFB161X45
SEAT BELTS
tl* the contact owns a 2004 kia spectra. the contact stated while driving approximately 20 mph, the air bag warning light illuminated. the contact also stated months later the seat belt springs from the driver and passenger side exploded. the vehicle was not taken to the dealer for a diagnostic testing. the manufacturer was made aware of the failure and stated the vehicle was not included in any recalls. the vehicle was not repaired. the approximate failure mileage was 140,000 and the current failure mileage 143,000.
Reported in: RILIGH NC || Crash: N || VIN #: KNAFB161X45