Kia Sportage: best & worst years

Based on CarVitals reliability verdicts, the Kia Sportage years to approach with the most caution are 2011, 2012, 2013, and 2017. The strongest years in our data are 2019, 2021, and 2022. Below is every model year we cover (2005–2024), ranked, with the owner-reported problems behind each call.

Every Kia Sportage year, ranked

YearVerdictScoreTop owner-reported problems
2022 Recommended 7 2.4L Theta-II GDI engine problems - oil consumption, knocking and connecting-rod-bearing failure that can lead to stalling and seizure; worst on 2017, covered by an extended-warranty settlement; Electrical-system faults including infotainment and electronics glitches; Powertrain and transmission complaints (shift quality, including the 1.6T dual-clutch) Full report ↗
2021 Recommended 7 2.4L Theta-II GDI engine problems - oil consumption, knocking and connecting-rod-bearing failure that can lead to stalling and seizure; worst on 2017, covered by an extended-warranty settlement; Electrical-system faults including infotainment and electronics glitches; Powertrain and transmission complaints (shift quality, including the 1.6T dual-clutch) Full report ↗
2019 Recommended 7 2.4L Theta-II GDI engine problems - oil consumption, knocking and connecting-rod-bearing failure that can lead to stalling and seizure; worst on 2017, covered by an extended-warranty settlement; Electrical-system faults including infotainment and electronics glitches; Powertrain and transmission complaints (shift quality, including the 1.6T dual-clutch) Full report ↗
2024 Caution 6 Launch-year electrical and infotainment glitches - touchscreen, driver-assist and electrical-system faults on the all-new fifth generation; Service-brake complaints (brake feel and performance) reported on early fifth-generation cars; Early powertrain and transmission reports on the new drivetrains (including the dual-clutch and hybrid units) Full report ↗
2010 Caution 6 Passenger-airbag warning-light and occupant-classification-sensor faults (airbag may show OFF or warning light); Service-brake complaints (brake performance and wear); Electrical-system faults affecting windows, door locks and accessories Full report ↗
2007 Caution 6 Passenger-airbag warning-light and occupant-classification-sensor faults (airbag may show OFF or warning light); Service-brake complaints (brake performance and wear); Electrical-system faults affecting windows, door locks and accessories Full report ↗
2023 Caution 5 Launch-year electrical and infotainment glitches - touchscreen, driver-assist and electrical-system faults on the all-new fifth generation; Service-brake complaints (brake feel and performance) reported on early fifth-generation cars; Early powertrain and transmission reports on the new drivetrains (including the dual-clutch and hybrid units) Full report ↗
2020 Caution 5 2.4L Theta-II GDI engine problems - oil consumption, knocking and connecting-rod-bearing failure that can lead to stalling and seizure; worst on 2017, covered by an extended-warranty settlement; Electrical-system faults including infotainment and electronics glitches; Powertrain and transmission complaints (shift quality, including the 1.6T dual-clutch) Full report ↗
2018 Caution 5 2.4L Theta-II GDI engine problems - oil consumption, knocking and connecting-rod-bearing failure that can lead to stalling and seizure; worst on 2017, covered by an extended-warranty settlement; Electrical-system faults including infotainment and electronics glitches; Powertrain and transmission complaints (shift quality, including the 1.6T dual-clutch) Full report ↗
2016 Caution 5 2.4L Theta-II GDI connecting-rod-bearing failure - engine knock, stalling, seizure and fire risk; 2012-2013 are the worst, with repairs that can approach the car's value (extended-warranty settlement applies); HECU / ABS hydraulic-module brake-circuit fire risk (recall) and other brake complaints, heaviest on the 2011 launch year; Electrical-system faults (accessories, windows and electronics) Full report ↗
2015 Caution 5 2.4L Theta-II GDI connecting-rod-bearing failure - engine knock, stalling, seizure and fire risk; 2012-2013 are the worst, with repairs that can approach the car's value (extended-warranty settlement applies); HECU / ABS hydraulic-module brake-circuit fire risk (recall) and other brake complaints, heaviest on the 2011 launch year; Electrical-system faults (accessories, windows and electronics) Full report ↗
2014 Caution 5 2.4L Theta-II GDI connecting-rod-bearing failure - engine knock, stalling, seizure and fire risk; 2012-2013 are the worst, with repairs that can approach the car's value (extended-warranty settlement applies); HECU / ABS hydraulic-module brake-circuit fire risk (recall) and other brake complaints, heaviest on the 2011 launch year; Electrical-system faults (accessories, windows and electronics) Full report ↗
2009 Caution 5 Passenger-airbag warning-light and occupant-classification-sensor faults (airbag may show OFF or warning light); Service-brake complaints (brake performance and wear); Electrical-system faults affecting windows, door locks and accessories Full report ↗
2008 Caution 5 Passenger-airbag warning-light and occupant-classification-sensor faults (airbag may show OFF or warning light); Service-brake complaints (brake performance and wear); Electrical-system faults affecting windows, door locks and accessories Full report ↗
2006 Caution 5 Passenger-airbag warning-light and occupant-classification-sensor faults (airbag may show OFF or warning light); Service-brake complaints (brake performance and wear); Electrical-system faults affecting windows, door locks and accessories Full report ↗
2005 Caution 5 Passenger-airbag warning-light and occupant-classification-sensor faults (airbag may show OFF or warning light); Service-brake complaints (brake performance and wear); Electrical-system faults affecting windows, door locks and accessories Full report ↗
2017 Avoid 4 2.4L Theta-II GDI engine problems - oil consumption, knocking and connecting-rod-bearing failure that can lead to stalling and seizure; worst on 2017, covered by an extended-warranty settlement; Electrical-system faults including infotainment and electronics glitches; Powertrain and transmission complaints (shift quality, including the 1.6T dual-clutch) Full report ↗
2013 Avoid 4 2.4L Theta-II GDI connecting-rod-bearing failure - engine knock, stalling, seizure and fire risk; 2012-2013 are the worst, with repairs that can approach the car's value (extended-warranty settlement applies); HECU / ABS hydraulic-module brake-circuit fire risk (recall) and other brake complaints, heaviest on the 2011 launch year; Electrical-system faults (accessories, windows and electronics) Full report ↗
2012 Avoid 4 2.4L Theta-II GDI connecting-rod-bearing failure - engine knock, stalling, seizure and fire risk; 2012-2013 are the worst, with repairs that can approach the car's value (extended-warranty settlement applies); HECU / ABS hydraulic-module brake-circuit fire risk (recall) and other brake complaints, heaviest on the 2011 launch year; Electrical-system faults (accessories, windows and electronics) Full report ↗
2011 Avoid 4 2.4L Theta-II GDI connecting-rod-bearing failure - engine knock, stalling, seizure and fire risk; 2012-2013 are the worst, with repairs that can approach the car's value (extended-warranty settlement applies); HECU / ABS hydraulic-module brake-circuit fire risk (recall) and other brake complaints, heaviest on the 2011 launch year; Electrical-system faults (accessories, windows and electronics) Full report ↗

Kia Sportage problems by year

2024 Kia Sportage Caution

All-new fifth-generation Sportage: bigger, better-equipped and far more refined, with relatively few complaints so far, but still early in its life and unproven for long-term durability.

  • Launch-year electrical and infotainment glitches - touchscreen, driver-assist and electrical-system faults on the all-new fifth generation
  • Service-brake complaints (brake feel and performance) reported on early fifth-generation cars
  • Early powertrain and transmission reports on the new drivetrains (including the dual-clutch and hybrid units)

2023 Kia Sportage Caution

First year of the redesigned fifth generation - appealing and roomy, but launch-year electrical, infotainment and brake complaints make it the generation's riskier pick.

  • Launch-year electrical and infotainment glitches - touchscreen, driver-assist and electrical-system faults on the all-new fifth generation
  • Service-brake complaints (brake feel and performance) reported on early fifth-generation cars
  • Early powertrain and transmission reports on the new drivetrains (including the dual-clutch and hybrid units)

2022 Kia Sportage Recommended

Best of the fourth generation: the Theta-II engine troubles had largely settled, complaint volume is low, and it offers strong value, a comfortable ride and good equipment.

  • 2.4L Theta-II GDI engine problems - oil consumption, knocking and connecting-rod-bearing failure that can lead to stalling and seizure; worst on 2017, covered by an extended-warranty settlement
  • Electrical-system faults including infotainment and electronics glitches
  • Powertrain and transmission complaints (shift quality, including the 1.6T dual-clutch)

2021 Kia Sportage Recommended

A dependable, trouble-free fourth-gen year with low complaint volume - one of the smartest used Sportage buys, pairing a comfortable ride with a long warranty.

  • 2.4L Theta-II GDI engine problems - oil consumption, knocking and connecting-rod-bearing failure that can lead to stalling and seizure; worst on 2017, covered by an extended-warranty settlement
  • Electrical-system faults including infotainment and electronics glitches
  • Powertrain and transmission complaints (shift quality, including the 1.6T dual-clutch)

2020 Kia Sportage Caution

Solid fourth-gen Sportage that still logs a fair number of 2.4L engine complaints; sound value, but have the engine and recall history checked.

  • 2.4L Theta-II GDI engine problems - oil consumption, knocking and connecting-rod-bearing failure that can lead to stalling and seizure; worst on 2017, covered by an extended-warranty settlement
  • Electrical-system faults including infotainment and electronics glitches
  • Powertrain and transmission complaints (shift quality, including the 1.6T dual-clutch)

2019 Kia Sportage Recommended

One of the most trouble-free Sportage years - the 2.4L engine concerns had eased, complaints are low, and it pairs a comfortable ride with a long warranty.

  • 2.4L Theta-II GDI engine problems - oil consumption, knocking and connecting-rod-bearing failure that can lead to stalling and seizure; worst on 2017, covered by an extended-warranty settlement
  • Electrical-system faults including infotainment and electronics glitches
  • Powertrain and transmission complaints (shift quality, including the 1.6T dual-clutch)

2018 Kia Sportage Caution

Improving fourth-gen year, but still carries notable 2.4L GDI engine complaints; verify the engine service and recall history before buying.

  • 2.4L Theta-II GDI engine problems - oil consumption, knocking and connecting-rod-bearing failure that can lead to stalling and seizure; worst on 2017, covered by an extended-warranty settlement
  • Electrical-system faults including infotainment and electronics glitches
  • Powertrain and transmission complaints (shift quality, including the 1.6T dual-clutch)

2017 Kia Sportage Avoid

Launch of the fourth generation and the worst engine year of the era - heavy Theta-II 2.4L GDI failure reports (stall, seizure). Avoid unless engine work and settlement coverage are documented.

  • 2.4L Theta-II GDI engine problems - oil consumption, knocking and connecting-rod-bearing failure that can lead to stalling and seizure; worst on 2017, covered by an extended-warranty settlement
  • Electrical-system faults including infotainment and electronics glitches
  • Powertrain and transmission complaints (shift quality, including the 1.6T dual-clutch)

2016 Kia Sportage Caution

Last third-gen year - the 2.4L GDI engine and brake recalls still apply, though with fewer catastrophic failures than 2012-2013; confirm engine and HECU recall completion.

  • 2.4L Theta-II GDI connecting-rod-bearing failure - engine knock, stalling, seizure and fire risk; 2012-2013 are the worst, with repairs that can approach the car's value (extended-warranty settlement applies)
  • HECU / ABS hydraulic-module brake-circuit fire risk (recall) and other brake complaints, heaviest on the 2011 launch year
  • Electrical-system faults (accessories, windows and electronics)

2015 Kia Sportage Caution

Third-gen Sportage with ongoing 2.4L GDI engine and brake complaints; the engine-failure settlement may apply - confirm coverage and service records.

  • 2.4L Theta-II GDI connecting-rod-bearing failure - engine knock, stalling, seizure and fire risk; 2012-2013 are the worst, with repairs that can approach the car's value (extended-warranty settlement applies)
  • HECU / ABS hydraulic-module brake-circuit fire risk (recall) and other brake complaints, heaviest on the 2011 launch year
  • Electrical-system faults (accessories, windows and electronics)

2014 Kia Sportage Caution

Third-gen year with persistent 2.4L GDI engine concerns (oil consumption, knock); better than 2012-2013, but still verify engine history and recalls.

  • 2.4L Theta-II GDI connecting-rod-bearing failure - engine knock, stalling, seizure and fire risk; 2012-2013 are the worst, with repairs that can approach the car's value (extended-warranty settlement applies)
  • HECU / ABS hydraulic-module brake-circuit fire risk (recall) and other brake complaints, heaviest on the 2011 launch year
  • Electrical-system faults (accessories, windows and electronics)

2013 Kia Sportage Avoid

One of the worst Sportage years - widespread 2.4L Theta-II connecting-rod-bearing failures with stalling, seizure and fire risk; repairs can approach the car's value. Avoid without documented engine work.

  • 2.4L Theta-II GDI connecting-rod-bearing failure - engine knock, stalling, seizure and fire risk; 2012-2013 are the worst, with repairs that can approach the car's value (extended-warranty settlement applies)
  • HECU / ABS hydraulic-module brake-circuit fire risk (recall) and other brake complaints, heaviest on the 2011 launch year
  • Electrical-system faults (accessories, windows and electronics)

2012 Kia Sportage Avoid

The worst Sportage for engine reliability - the 2.4L Theta-II rod-bearing defect peaks here with frequent seizure and fire reports. Avoid unless the engine has been replaced under the settlement.

  • 2.4L Theta-II GDI connecting-rod-bearing failure - engine knock, stalling, seizure and fire risk; 2012-2013 are the worst, with repairs that can approach the car's value (extended-warranty settlement applies)
  • HECU / ABS hydraulic-module brake-circuit fire risk (recall) and other brake complaints, heaviest on the 2011 launch year
  • Electrical-system faults (accessories, windows and electronics)

2011 Kia Sportage Avoid

Troubled third-gen launch year: early Theta-II 2.4L engine failures plus the HECU brake-circuit fire recall and the generation's worst brake complaints. Avoid without documented recall and engine work.

  • 2.4L Theta-II GDI connecting-rod-bearing failure - engine knock, stalling, seizure and fire risk; 2012-2013 are the worst, with repairs that can approach the car's value (extended-warranty settlement applies)
  • HECU / ABS hydraulic-module brake-circuit fire risk (recall) and other brake complaints, heaviest on the 2011 launch year
  • Electrical-system faults (accessories, windows and electronics)

2010 Kia Sportage Caution

Cleanest of the durable second generation - conventional, non-GDI engines avoid the later Theta-II troubles, with low complaint volume; dated but dependable.

  • Passenger-airbag warning-light and occupant-classification-sensor faults (airbag may show OFF or warning light)
  • Service-brake complaints (brake performance and wear)
  • Electrical-system faults affecting windows, door locks and accessories

2009 Kia Sportage Caution

Second-gen Sportage with recurring electrical, steering and airbag-light complaints; the conventional drivetrain is durable, but check the electrical and recall history.

  • Passenger-airbag warning-light and occupant-classification-sensor faults (airbag may show OFF or warning light)
  • Service-brake complaints (brake performance and wear)
  • Electrical-system faults affecting windows, door locks and accessories

2008 Kia Sportage Caution

Second-gen year with elevated electrical and brake complaints; the conventional powertrain is durable, but inspect the electronics and brakes.

  • Passenger-airbag warning-light and occupant-classification-sensor faults (airbag may show OFF or warning light)
  • Service-brake complaints (brake performance and wear)
  • Electrical-system faults affecting windows, door locks and accessories

2007 Kia Sportage Caution

One of the better second-gen years - conventional engines and modest complaint volume make it a dependable, if dated, budget SUV.

  • Passenger-airbag warning-light and occupant-classification-sensor faults (airbag may show OFF or warning light)
  • Service-brake complaints (brake performance and wear)
  • Electrical-system faults affecting windows, door locks and accessories

2006 Kia Sportage Caution

Second-gen Sportage notable for passenger-airbag warning-light and occupant-sensor complaints; otherwise a durable, simple SUV - verify the airbag system.

  • Passenger-airbag warning-light and occupant-classification-sensor faults (airbag may show OFF or warning light)
  • Service-brake complaints (brake performance and wear)
  • Electrical-system faults affecting windows, door locks and accessories

2005 Kia Sportage Caution

First year of the US second-generation Sportage - durable conventional drivetrain, but early airbag, electrical and fuel-system complaints mean it needs a thorough inspection.

  • Passenger-airbag warning-light and occupant-classification-sensor faults (airbag may show OFF or warning light)
  • Service-brake complaints (brake performance and wear)
  • Electrical-system faults affecting windows, door locks and accessories

Rankings come from CarVitals reliability verdicts, built on public NHTSA complaint and recall data. See how we build these reports, the most reliable used cars overall, browse all Kia models, or check any listing free with the CarVitals extension.