2003 KIA Spectra problems
Owners have filed 132 complaints about the 2003 KIA Spectra with NHTSA. Power train accounts for 12.1% of them — narrowly the most common, ahead of service brakes, hydraulic at 10.6%.
Complaints132
Crashes16
Fires1
Injuries13
Deaths0
What owners report breaking
Power train 12.1% · 16
Service brakes, hydraulic 10.6% · 14
Engine and engine cooling 10.6% · 14
Structure 8.3% · 11
Air bags 8.3% · 11
Visibility 7.6% · 10
Electrical system 6.8% · 9
Seat belts 6.8% · 9
Severity
Of those complaints, 16 describe a crash, 1 describe a fire and 13 report an injury.
Reading the numbers
Across the 7 model years of the KIA Spectra in this data, 2003 sits 4th by complaint volume. 2007 draws the most.
Filings have fallen off, 5 in the last three years against 7 in the three before. That is normal as a generation leaves the road.
The median odometer reading at the time of complaint was 53,000 miles.
In owners' own words
The front panel in the consumer's 2003 KIA Spectra made noise. *Nm the consumer had several problems concerning the vehicle. The drivers seat belt was broken, driver and passenger doors were inoperative, faulty speaker, the vehicle would not move forward or in reverse, there would be a clicking sound if it was forced, the vehicle would not accelerate over 30 mph for 10 minutes. Power train · reported at 5,130 miles
My mother bought this car brand new couple years back. Haven't had any problems till now. On my way to work im going around a curve and transmission went out. Thought for a second I accidentally put it in neutral. My transmission never slipped, shifted hard or any other signs of problems. This is crazy, not sure yet if KIA is covering they promised warranty.. I really hope so.. Power train · reported at 91,375 miles
The contact owns a 2003 KIA Spectra. The contact stated that the vehicle failed to shift into gear. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic for diagnostic testing. The technician stated that the transmission needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired and the manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 112,000. Power train · reported at 112,000 miles
Verbatim from NHTSA filings. Complaints are unverified owner reports.
Safety recalls
Checking NHTSA for open recalls…