1999 Kia Sephia

Summary:

The longer it lasts, the better a deal it is

Faults:

Breaks squeaked. Rear view mirror rattled tremendously before I bought some epoxy to glue it still. Entire dash board resonates vigorously above 80mph--it's my reminder to slow down.

General Comments:

The only really bad thing about this car was how it shakes, mentioned above. It is very clunky, with cheap parts and a very hollow feel. But it was well worth my money, as I bought it used for $2900.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 18th July, 2004

1999 Kia Sephia LS 1.8 ltr 4 cylinder

Summary:

Good if you like to waste money and time

Faults:

I thought my car was great for the money, until I had to start pumping more money into it.

At 10K miles, I received a recall notice for a faulty fuel line.

At 20K miles, the front brake pads were replaced.

At 23K miles, the battery and alternator was replaced. (The alternator was considered defective).

(Shortly after, new set of tires needed)

At 31K miles, 1 spark plug wire set needed replacing. Cylinder 3 misfire.

At 40K miles, I had to replace the front brake pads again. Now the car shudders when you apply the brakes. (Rotor war-page)

At 53K miles, AC went. The return had a leak in it.

At 60K miles, replace brakes again.

At 65K miles, remaining spark plug wire set was replaced. Brake fluid low, needed to be refilled. (Brake light started coming on)

At 69K miles, battery needed replacing again.

At 70K miles, brake light came on again, fluid was low, needed to be refilled.

Currently (71K miles), loud rattle type noise is heard under the car. My husband at first thought it was the transmission as the rattling noise only happened under load (when gas pedal was applied). Our other mechanically inclined friends state that it could be the CV joints. We're checking it out soon.

Other problems: Mis-coloration of driver side door panel, since day I bought car (I thought it was a mirror reflection from the light...) Dashboard disfigurement (it's totally gone now - vents broken, edge around vent is bubbled). Rear passenger door seals keep coming off. Black vinyl area on back doors became oxidated not too long after I purchased car. Front head lights mis-colored. Light bulbs burn out regularly. Rear seat release buttons (for access to trunk) cracked completely. Area around key hole on doors and handles scratched. The list goes on, and on... and on...

General Comments:

I would obviously suggest to everyone to do homework before purchasing a vehicle. Do not buy because it's cool, or cheap, etc... Buy it because it's what you need. Make sure it's a good manufacturer.

This car was what I needed at the time and a great price. However, if I knew then what I know now... I would have gotten a different vehicle. I almost considered another Kia at one point in time. Never again.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? No

Review Date: 14th July, 2004

21st Sep 2004, 11:53

I seem to be having the same issues with my 2000 Sephie : (I have 85k miles on it, I bought it at 55k.

My car as well started with the sound of something rattling underneath : (just last night my engine light came on.

I ran a on board system check on it today, the emmisions stations charge 14.00 to test your car, Just FYI, and low and behold cylinder 3 misfire issues as I have read in the prior statement : (

Please let me know what the rattling is, I bought a new plug today now I just need to locate the plugs on the engine and replace it to see if that helps?

My email is mac3@iname.com Thank you.

1999 Kia Sephia Base 1.8 DOHC

Summary:

A point A to point B with a little bit of creativity

Faults:

Glove box compartment latch broke.

General Comments:

I must also be a very lucky customer as I have not had, but that one problem and I am reaching 100,000 miles. I had purchased this car after seeing my best friend's mom purchase one, and I had liked the car. I didn't research the car any, but his parents did. They were considering a Ford Focus and a Kia Sephia. They too have not had any problems and they are about at 60,000 miles.

The car has made successful trips to Junction City, Kansas; Little Rock, Arkansas; and Dallas, Texas; from my home town of Oklahoma City. All without kinks and gas usage was acceptable.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 19th June, 2004