2004 Kia Spectra Reviews - Page 2 of 2

Check engine light comes on intermittently. Have had the dealer "fix" it three times. Each time I have been told it was a different problem. Just had it fixed about 1 month ago; told the problem was the transmission modulator. Check engine light came on again last night (12/12/05).

Car use to occasionally refuse to shift out of 2nd gear; but that seems to have "fixed" itself.

Generally rides OK; wouldn't want to take it on a long trip (300-500 miles)

Had a minor problem with speedometer, but its OK now.

Runs very well so far. I will probably have this for quite a long time.

When I test drove the car nothing was amiss, but a week later when I went for delivery the front headlight had been gouged deeply. Also there was a blue mark approx. 3 in. long across the sunglasses holder. When I went to tell the salesperson about this I came across some exterior damage to the passenger side doors, it looked as though someone had opened another cars door and nicked off paint and left gouges. Then when I did say something it was quickly blamed on someone else. I did not even get to take the car home until three days later because the dealership couldn't access the registry computer and give me a registration. I was promised that they would right all wrongs. When I got my car all, but the headlight had been fixed, that required phone calls to the dealership for a week. And when I did get an appointment someone had ordered the wrong headlight.

The car runs great. The price was right and all, but the salesperson treated my request and concerns with respect. Although the headlight wasn't ordered correctly, the service dept. manager took time to locate and install the correct one within the hour.

What things have gone wrong with the car?

NOTHING...!!!

General comments?

I bought the all-new 2004 Kia Spectra - EX for only $10,200.00 USD, can you believe it? It looks, and runs great! I already own a 2003 Kia Sedona EX which I paid only $20,700.00 USD for under $31,000.00 I own two cars. I remember looking at a Toyota Sienna which they wanted $32,600.00 USD (That's for one car). To end this review... look into a Kia You'll be glad you did!!!

Driver window leaked water.

Front passenger window had warped channel run. Service Department left oil spilled on door and something spilled on seat. Did not clean up after repairs.

Engine light first two weeks of ownership. Told it was the gas cap. Reset.

Two weeks later, engine light is on again. Due to go to shop again.

Engine makes a fast whizzing noise when coming to a stop and I can hear something rubbnig under the hood.

Service department cannot guarantee a loaner, however, sales person was generous each time I called to give me a loaner from the lot at no charge. Of course when I went to purchase the vehicle, I was told that I would always have a loaner during repairs.

I am beginning to regret buying a Kia. It is my first brand new car and I'm not impressed so far. If they can determine why the check engine light is coming on and fix it permanently, I'll be satisfied.