Five problems related to driveshaft have been reported for the 1997 Kia Motor Sportage. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
Consumer states when hitting bump something is loose. Dealer fould broken propeller shaft.
Driving between 40-45 mph driveshaft fell out, damaging entire underside of vehicle gouging fuel tank in several places. Rear end fell locking up brakes and throwing vehicle into uncontrollable bouncing for over quarter mile. Driveshaft flew infront of other vehicles windshield. Wife(9 mo. Preg. ) & son in car with me.
Driveshaft failed.
After purchasing this vehicle new we are very upset at the lack of concern and assisstance from the numerous government agencies I have contacted, completed forms and mailed them, I have yet to be contacted. Both my 4 year old son & I almost lost our lives when my engine stalled on an interstate speed limit 70 cars turning everyway to avoid us, I really felt there was no hope when I saw an 18 wheeler approaching, I turned to move my son from the rear seat to the front so I could at least hold him, the driver saw me and when he managed to stop his rig was jackknifed and 1 side hit the block barrier. I have documents to prove the engine problems in 97 kia's can't be repaired. Will lives be lost before kia is held responsible? please help.
Vehicle would jerk. Engine check light kept coming on. Vehcle would overheat & fail to start. Also, vehicle had revved while at stop light due to fast idle . The ported passage hole was too small. It needed to be wider according to mechanic. Driveshaft broke twice in last 6 months.