1997 Kia Sephia LS review from North America
"Excellent car for the little bit of money they cost now"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Front rotors warped within 10000 miles, still driving on them though.
Battery needed replaced.
Seat belts needed replaced, possibly due to unknown accident.
General comments?
After 80,000 miles, I changed the spark plugs, wires and distributor cap, the air filter, and the PVC valve.
Changed the oil every 3,000 miles.
Changed the front brakes twice, the rotors were really warped, but I couldn't pay the $85 dollars to replace them, but they eventually straightened back out. The brake parts seem unusually high, the rear drums are like $185 a piece, and the shoes are like $50.
Overall, I am really happy with this car, I have put 85,000 miles or so on it, and have had no real problems other than the rotors. Here recently, I took the two air horns off the air box, and it really screams now. I did 115 MPH in the car shortly after I bought it. I know it isn't a Hennessey Viper, but I held my own quite a few times. With all the negative stuff I read, I am not sure what car those people are talking about, but it isn't my KIA. I love that lil Korean import.
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  | I like my KIA, it is a fine running car when it starts |
| The reason they invented aspirin |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | No |
| First year of ownership | 1997 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2003 |
| Engine and transmission | 1.8 Automatic |
| Performance marks | 8/10 |
| Reliability marks | 9/10 |
| Comfort marks | 7/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 8/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 6400 miles |
| Most recent distance | 90500 miles |
| Previous car | Dodge Shadow |
| Date of Entry | 5th January, 2003 |