1997 Kia Sephia LS review from North America

The front brake rotors warped at around 8000 miles.

Battery had to be replaced at 60,000 miles.

Right side front door trim fell off.

Lower radiator outlet pipe cracked, so it leaked anti-freeze, replaced it myself for $30.

Installed an aftermarket oil pressure guage. Sometimes the oil pressure seems to be at 0 or slightly above, don't know if it the pump going out or what.

Has a rough idle, even thought engine was timed and all ignition parts were replaced.

Took the air boxes off the air cleaner housing, it really improved the performance.

Car handles good, can take a 90 degree corner at 30 MPH, with minimal tire spin.

Acceleration is modest, low end torque is OK, top end lacks after 5000 RPM.

Head and foot room is generous in the front, kind of cramped while in the back. The split folding rear seat is a feature I really love.

Gage's are easy to see and read, however the fuel and temperature gages could use a new face and sender.

The seats are somewhat uncomfortable on long road trips.

Incorporating the wheel covers behind the lug nuts is a good idea, no lost wheel covers.

The paint is somewhat lacking, but adequate for the price of the car.

I have the AM/FM Cassette radio, have had no problems with it, but I would recommend an upgrade for it.

Other than the radiator outlet previously

stated, have had no serious engine/transmission problems. Replaced the distributor cap, spark plug wires, rotor, spark plugs, a couple of disc brake pad replacements, PVC valve, air cleaner, CV joints, just basic routine service's on the car.

However, the parts for the car are sometimes hard to find, and some had to be special ordered, and often times are expensive. I would recommend, if you know how, to replace the parts yourself and stay away from the dealer.

I got both CV joints (re-manufactured) at Auto Zone for $65 (right) and had to special order the left for $75 or so, with a core return. The dealer was like $415 for a new one, without installation.

A Service Manual is hard to come by. Your only options are either buying it at the dealer for around $80, or go to eBay and find a CD/ROM set for under $40.

Overall, I love my KIA. I abuse the heck out of it, and it gives me no problems. I have done everything from 115 MPH speed runs to street racing. I think the DOHC 1.8 is built solid, and with some tweaking you can make a nice sleeper out of it, considering it has a stock header and if you do the aformentioned air box removal (but it does affect gas mileage). The 1994 Dodge Shadow I had developed a lifter knock at 87000 miles, and I would rather have my KIA as the Dodge.