1998 Kia Sephia review from North America
"Not too bad, not so great"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Brakes were replaced yearly no matter what the mileage. Every July.
Went through 3 mufflers.
Alternator at 8,000.
2 transmissions at 8,000 and at 97,000.
Fuel door was replaced the first winter.
Door locks froze shut or open every winter.
Windsheild gasket caved in a 80,000.
The second transmission went at 97,000 and I did not feel it was worth $3,000 to fix a car worth $1,500.
The Dealer was very Bad about fixing the car. When it started over heating they said everything was working. They Missed the blown fuse.
General comments?
I bought this car brand new off the truck and am the only driver it ever had. It was a very reliable car when it ran.
A/c worked great.
Handles good, great fuel economy.
Survived accidents very well.
Recommended Reviews:
  | Good for the money, better than American cars |
| Damn good car for the money |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | No |
| Model Year | 1999 |
| First year of ownership | 1999 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2005 |
| Engine and transmission | 1.8L Automatic |
| Performance marks | 7/10 |
| Reliability marks | 8/10 |
| Comfort marks | 7/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 2/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 7/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 2 miles |
| Most recent distance | 97000 miles |
| Previous car | Mercury Tracer |
| Date of Entry | 29th August, 2005 |