1998 Kia Sportage EX review from North America

OK, here we go. Excuse me, while I vent.

I got this car as a gift, from my dear parents. Not my choice, but they thought it was a good idea to get a brand new car--without my input. The sad thing is, I would have done research.

In the first year, lol, I wasn't impressed with it. It has no power, the engine was loud from the beginning, and I had to bring it back to replace the power window engine. Beside normal maintance of changing oil and filters, they expect you to pay on average of 800.00 a year on regular maintanance--forgettabout the other things that break down...

In the first year, came my first brake replacement. 600.00 dollars thank you very much. I was warned by the dealer that one, you can use generic parts and secondly kia's brakes will often need replacement. I was ticked off.

The second year, the car would shut off for no reason at all. I was stranded on the road with a pretty decent looking car about four times. NOT COOL. It needed an alternator. Also, the leaking A/C came into play--which was free. However, my carpet was warped and didn't get replaced. Thank you Kia Motors. Thank you for also having the worst auto paint job that began peeling in the second year.

The third year, I got into a major accident. I am proud to say, that it has a pretty sturdy structure that survived the 50 mph crash. I did as well. I also need to REPLACE the brakes again, but luckily, after I cried and whined, they did them for free. The fuse for the window kept on blowing--but the thing is, I got it checked by three diferrent mechanics--dealership included, that couldn't locate the electrical problem.

Now, in year four, the brakes again need replacement--so I should basically keep a 600 brake replacement fund each year. LOL Not only did the windows go, the A/C, the window wipers, and the radio are tempermental. I can friggin' pass the state inspection!!! I'm now, officially NOT a fan of the Kia Sportage. I will have to invest AT LEAST 2000 to get the brakes, suspension, electrical issues, and paint job even if I just want to get a little money for it.

NOT to meantion the poor fuel economy due to the 02 sensor blowing...geez.

This year,

I would like to say that I still like my car, b/c my parents did buy it for me. If they meant to make life simpler, they didn't, but I do appreciate the gesture. I only make a limited income, and basically, I probably would have fared better with a domestic small car with cheap parts. I've taken my small income to maintain this car. Do yourself a favor and buy a good used car each and every time. Don't go for the cheapest newest car, because that's unwise in the long run, unless you get rid of it in 2 years.