Kia Sportage Used Buying Guide: Known Issues

• Engine issues are the Sportage’s main affliction, though it’s also known for some transmission, cooling, and alternator problems. Luckily, Kia’s warranty usually comes to the rescue.
• Before you purchase a used Sportage, verify that it’s had essential recall repairs!
• In spite of any issues, repair costs for Sportage owners tend to be low, thanks to Kia’s excellent warranty coverage.
• Visit us at Alan Jay for only the best-kept Kia Sportage specimens!

The Sportage’s adventures with engine failure have been so numerous that Kia eventually settled a class-action lawsuit by extending its already-excellent warranty and promising a free engine replacement for certain model years. Less famously, this small crossover SUV has also been known to need cooling system, transmission, and alternator repairs. The 2012 and 2017 Sportage managed to rack up the most customer complaints overall — far more than other model years. More recent 2019-2025 Sportage models come with the least baggage!

• Engine stopped working: Many drivers of older 2011-2017 Sportage models report needing a complete engine rebuild. Some even reported repeat engine failure. After a class action suit, Kia expanded its powertrain warranty for the 2011-2019 Sportage to cover the lifetime of the vehicle and include a free engine replacement.
• Leaking or clogged cooling system: After racking up around 85,000 miles, it’s not uncommon for the Sportage to need a new radiator.
• Transmission slippage or rough acceleration: This may be a sign of a faulty torque converter, a common issue with the Sportage’s transmission.
• Electrical failures (dim lights, stalling engine, radio cutting out): In a Kia Sportage, electrical issues are often the result of a defective battery or alternator.

Before you purchase a used Kia Sportage, check to see whether it’s had all of its recall-related repairs. Simply head to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s website and enter the model’s VIN number. The 2023 and 2011 Kia Seltos models have the most recalls, racking up six apiece.

Here are a few you should know about:

• Electric oil pump assembly may cause fire: Make sure this issue is resolved before you purchase a 2023 Kia Sportage.
• HECU may cause engine compartment fire: This recall was issued for the 2010-2013 Sportage, among other Kia models.

Thanks to Kia’s extensive warranty coverage — including a limited powertrain warranty that lasts 10 years or 100,000 miles — annual repair costs for later model years tend to be low. According to Kelley Blue Book, the average 2022 Kia Sportage with 48,000 to 60,000 miles will cost $0 in annual repairs. Between 60,000 and 84,000 miles, average annual costs peak at $85.