Two problems related to manifold/header/muffler/tail pipe have been reported for the 2000 Kia Motor Sportage. The most recently reported issues are listed below. Please also check out the statistics and reliability analysis of the 2000 Kia Motor Sportage based on all problems reported for the 2000 Sportage.
Heat shield broke away, muffler affected and needs replacement due to heat shield. I contacted the kia dealership in reno, nv and the attendant stated my car is no longer under warranty. I informed him of my car, daughter's and friends vehicles all having heat shield/muffler issue. I asked who I should inform of the possible assembly line issue? he stated "the dealership". My daughter has a 2002 kia Sportage and a friend has a 2002 kia Sportage (all 4x4). Within 5 months all three vehicles have had the identicle failure. Am concerned the muffler and/or heat shield can harm occupants in or out of vehicle, especially on highway while traveling in the event any parts should drop off.
The muffler broke two years after purchase of the vehicle.