Kia automobiles have been imported to the U.S. since 1992. Recalls due to serious engine problems or failure are non-existent, but several mechanical components in Kia engines have proven to be problematic.
Some Kia Sportages equipped with the 2.5- and 2.7-liter V-6 engines may have a faulty crankshaft position sensor that could cause the engine to stall, according to internetautoguide.com.
Some Kia Sportages may have a sticking accelerator pedal that can hold the throttle open on the engine, which may cause a crash.
More than 35,000 2006 Kias have cooling fans made with inferior material that could melt from engine heat.
Cylinder misfires in some 6-cylinder Kia engines may be the result of a faulty spark plug, coil or coil wire. A fuel injector also could be bad, according to 2arpros.com.
Some 4-cylinder Kia Optimas could experience the engine quitting while in motion. If spark is coming from the spark plug, the problem could be the fuel filter, fuel pump or pressure regulator.
Mid-1990s Kia Sephias may have difficulty starting as a result of coolant temperature sensor failing to transmit data to enrich the fuel during cold starts. This also may be due to a faulty fuel pump relay.
