Three problems related to differential unit have been reported for the 2002 Kia Motor Sportage. The most recently reported issues are listed below. Please also check out the statistics and reliability analysis of the 2002 Kia Motor Sportage based on all problems reported for the 2002 Sportage.
I started taking my 2002 kia Sportage to the dealer and it had a clunking sound in the back. I took it in and the technician said he thought it was the muffler and it was loose so he kicked it with his foot and sent me on my way. I got a new muffler and it still made the noise so I took it to a local shop and it was the differential failure. It ended up costing me over 2500. I had to have a new differential put in and it every once in awhile makes a clunking noise when you put the transmission in gear. If the tech would have made the right decision it would have been covered by warranty. I have owned several cars in my life and never had this happen to any of them. I feel like the kia people should reimburse me for my time and money!!!.
Noticed a small high pitched whine toward the rear of the vehicle. My mechanic checked and said that it was probably a pinion bearing in the differential going bad and should be covered by the warranty. Took the car to the dealer for a determination and was told that the differential needed replaced and was not covered under the warranty since the fluid had not been changed every 20000 miles along with a bill for $126. 00. Was not about to pay them the $1000 they wanted to replace a differential that should have been covered under warranty. Still driving the car which now makes a loud grinding sound and draws alot of attention which allows me to discourage any kia purchases from prospective buyers. The 4 wheel drive has quit working also leaving only single wheel drive making the vehicle very unstable on wet road conditions.
Differential failed, resulting in vehicle stalling while driving.