1996 Kia Sephia GS review from North America
"Friends don't let friends drive KIA!!!"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
The check engine light comes on going up every hill.
The brake rotors warped worse than a vinyl record left in the trunk of a car in Arizona in July.
The water pump impeller rotted clean off.
The engine overheated and seized.
The driver's side window falls out of the track if lowered more than halfway.
The key no longer works in the driver's side door.
The headlight lenses have become frosted or fogged dull yellow.
The dashboard has a huge sunburned spot in the middle, and it has curled up 4 inches high.
The weather stripping for the rear window is falling into the door, causing air to whistle into the car.
The risk/reward ratio for this car makes it a sure loser every time!!!
General comments?
This car has been a cause of great sorrow to me and my family. It is unreliable. It is always in need of some repair. The engine is weak and easily damaged. All of the plastic in the cabin is melting and warped. This is just a very poorly made car.
It was a gift that kept on taking.
It took too much to pay it off.
It took too much to fix it.
And it makes me feel bad to pass this burden on to anyone else, but I have to get rid of this lame mule.
Recommended reviews
![]() ![]() | The reason they invented aspirin |
![]() ![]() | Hidden gem, but you do have to baby it |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | No |
| First year of ownership | 2000 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2003 |
| Engine and transmission | 1.6 JARVIK Automatic |
| Performance marks | 2/10 |
| Reliability marks | 1/10 |
| Comfort marks | 2/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 1/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 1/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 65000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 75000 miles |
| Previous car | Honda Civic |
| Date of Entry | 8th July, 2003 |

