Three problems related to axle assembly have been reported for the 1997 Kia Motor Sportage. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
While traveling 55mph rear axel broke and right rear tire came off, and wheel area caught on fire. Took to dealer and has been repaired.
This vehicle is garbage - both front window motors-replaced. Transmission replaced, and is now acting up again. Rear-end replaced, acting up, engine squeals, dealer can't hear it, burning anti-freeze smell upon warmup, temp gauge goes crazy, in 4wd vehicle does not want to turn, only wants to go straight, makings hard "clunking" noise if you attempt to turn. The yugo was a better vehicle!.
This vehicle has been a problem from the day that I purchased it, engine failed and it was in shop for two months, transmission failed, the rear end failed, the fuel economy switch failed, then the transmission failed again, and the transmission has failed three times since July, 2000. I have had two near accidents on the interstate due to these mechanical failures. I have tried for over two years to contact a kia represenative but they will not respond to my complaints . The dealer is no help, they only give you the delay game. I have a vehicle that is no good, it is unsafe to drive and a danger to put on the road. It continually has problems and I am having to make payments on it. Please help.