Persistent problems with tracking - dealer unable to fix to my satisfaction.
Heat shield on exhaust rattles - replaced four times under warranty.
Rattle from 4WD transfer box. Sorted under warranty.
Perspex instrument cover cracked. Six month wait for replacement.
Poor finish on chrome wheel nuts and spare wheel support. Both rusted despite regular cleaning.
Untraced electrical gremlins left me stranded on one occasion (refused to start).
Good driving position. Comfortable interior, but poor fit and finish.
Ride is poor - the rear over sprung and under damped. This can be improved by carrying some weight (e.g.a couple of bags of sand).
Engine is noisy and thirsty (26mpg), but mechanically sound. (I believe it's from a Mazda 626)
I bought this car for just under £5000 in 2002.
At first the whole family were delighted with it. It is easy to drive and is extremely comfortable for driver and passengers.
However, the last few months have been a headache and the car is continuing to cost us.
The car is at present not drivable for the second time due to an electrical fault (again).
The dealer seemed puzzled the first time and did not remedy the problem as the brake lights, horn and power antennae do not work.
I have had to wait 3 weeks for a second appointment.
I noticed today that the radiator is leaking.
I have a very good local mechanic, but he cannot always sort the problem as KIA seems to be very individual.
I will not be recommending KIA to others now as, despite the initial bargain, it is proving to be expensive to maintain, the parts are hard to get hold of (even for the dealer) and I have found the dealer, to put it bluntly, smarmy, patronizing and ignorant.
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