Transfer Case problems of the 1999 Kia Motor Sportage

Six problems related to transfer case have been reported for the 1999 Kia Motor Sportage. The most recently reported issues are listed below.

1 Transfer Case problem

Failure Date: 05/05/2006

: the contact stated the fuel tank assembly developed a hole causing a fuel leak. The dealer replaced the fuel tank and determined the storage assembly also had a leak which could no longer be seen. Gas totally covered that area where the hole was located. The contact also stated when the front passenger side door was locked, the door could not be opened from the outside with the key. The vehicle has been taken to the dealer regarding the lock. Updated 10/4/2006 - the dealer failed to fix the door while it was there for service. The four wheel drive was not activated although the four wheel drive light was illuminated on the dash. The dealer replaced the vacuum lines.

2 Transfer Case problem

Failure Date: 02/01/2003

When attempting to engage 4-wheel drive, the light illuminates, but 4-wheel drive is not engage. Ph.

3 Transfer Case problem

Failure Date: 12/01/2000

4 wheel drive became inoperable, dealer replaced knuckle package, both hub assemblies, both axle assemblies, damages seals, vacuum seal, and vacuum hosed was repaired. (attorney for client).

4 Transfer Case problem

Failure Date: 10/15/2000

While driving 65mph in rain driver's side windshield wiper stopped. Then, passenger's side windshield wiper stopped as well. Dealer found driver's side windshield wiper had broken. Replaced both windshield wipers. On January 10, 2001 while snowing, very same thing happened again. Had windshield wipers replaced again. While driving to dealer's lot driver's windshield wiper arm flew off. The complete 4 wheel drive kit was replaced by the dealer but the 4 wheel drive did not engage resulting in bumping, grinding noise and no traction. The consumer stated that the vehicle was unsafe to drive. 4 wheel drive was never in working order in vehicle, consumer put vehicle in 4 wheel drive and got stuck. There was a loud grinding sound. Light indicating this option was working had been on. Dealer found 4 wheel drive had not been working in vehicle since purchase. Dealer replaced 4 wheel drive. Now same problem with 4 wheel drive, same grinding sound back.

5 Transfer Case problem

After repair and while driving in the snow the 4wd went out causing the vehicle to slid down a hill, upon inspection it was determined that the 4wd was not working. Nlm.

6 Transfer Case problem

The 4 wheel drive differential did not work, and the consumer had to be pushed out of snowy condition. Nlm.




Safety Ratings of Sportage Cars
Fuel Economy of Sportage Vehicles
Sportage Defect Investigations