Two problems related to clutch pedal/linkage have been reported for the 1998 Kia Motor Sportage. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
When putting vehicle in any gear can hear a loud squealing noise. When pushing down on clutch, it reduces the squealing noise, consumer stated it was a very annoying sound.
Front windshield has air leaks & at high speeds the wind is annoying. The front passenger seat belt locks into place as soon as the passenger clamps into place. One doesn't have to press brake peddle for it to tighten around person. When driving and particularly engaging the clutch to down shift the gear linkage disengages and the gears can't be located especially in second, third or fourth gears and because of such has almost caused three crashes. We had this checked by the dealer and they said they found nothing wrong with the gear shifting mechanism. I beg to differ because I drive that car every day and I've driven many manual shift transmissions cars and I believe that after driving for sometime (I. E. , one to two hours) the transmission heats up and causes problems with gear selection.