Top Kia Sportage fixes every owner should know

TL;DR

Kia Sportage owners should be aware of common faults like door lock issues and oil leaks. Fixes can range from £30 to £300 for parts, with garage labour costs between £50 and £150 per hour. Some repairs are DIY-friendly, while others are best left to professionals.

Faulty Door Locks

Many Kia Sportage models, particularly from 2010 to 2016, experience issues with door locks failing. This can lead to doors not locking or unlocking properly. The fix involves replacing the faulty actuator. This can be a DIY job if you have basic tools, with parts costing approximately £30 to £50 for a new actuator and garage labour costing roughly £50 to £100.

Engine Oil Leaks

Oil leaks are common in Kia Sportage models from 2011 to 2018. The leaks often occur from the oil filter or sump gasket. Identifying the source is crucial for a proper fix. Some leaks can be fixed at home, but others may require professional diagnosis. Gaskets cost around £20 to £50, while garage labour typically ranges between £80 and £150.

Worn Suspension Components

Models from 2013 to 2020 may suffer from worn shock absorbers or springs, leading to a bouncy ride. Replacing these components is essential for safety and comfort. This is best left to a garage unless you have experience. Shock absorbers can range from £50 to £150 each, and garage labour costs can be between £100 and £300 for the job.

Electrical Issues

Some Kia Sportage models, especially from 2014 to 2018, may encounter electrical faults, such as dashboard warning lights or issues with the infotainment system. Diagnosing the issue is the first step. Basic checks can be done at home, but complex issues should be handled by professionals. Depending on the issue, parts can cost from £30 to £200, with garage rates varying from £50 to £120.

Timing Chain Tensioner Failure

Certain Sportage models from 2011 to 2016 have reported timing chain tensioner failures, leading to engine noise and potential damage. Replacing the tensioner is crucial for engine health. This is a complex job best suited for a garage. A timing chain tensioner can cost around £50 to £100, with labour costs expected to be between £150 and £300 for this repair.

Kia Sportage MOT record

From 298,237 recorded MOT tests, 19.4% failed.

MOT pass and failure rates by year of first registration
Registered	Tests	Failed	Median mileage
2023	1,672	4.9%	24,216 mi
2022	28,754	7.7%	24,964 mi
2021	26,402	10.9%	32,449 mi
2020	18,659	13.3%	37,611 mi
2019	32,489	13.8%	45,200 mi
2018	33,272	15.0%	54,582 mi
2017	36,130	18.2%	64,792 mi
2016	36,368	21.1%	72,686 mi

Most common reasons for failure

Tyre tread depth not in accordance with the requirements32.3%
A suspension pin, bush or joint excessively worn21.1%
a brake lining or pad worn below 1.5mm20.6%
A tyre seriously damaged14.5%
Brake disc or drum excessively weakened, insecure or fractured11.5%

Figures cover every Kia Sportage tested in the DVSA dataset, not this specific car. Check a registration for the actual history of one vehicle.

Kia Sportage official figures

Median across 46 variants on sale, electricity / petrol, petrol, petrol electric.

Combined economy

44.1 mpg

WLTP median across variants

CO2 emissions

144 g/km

Sets the first-year tax rate

Electric range

41.5 miles

Manufacturer WLTP figure

Official figures for new cars. Real economy varies with driving, load and conditions.

Frequently asked questions

What are common faults with the Kia Sportage?

Common faults include faulty door locks, engine oil leaks, and worn suspension components.

How much does it cost to fix a faulty door lock?

Parts can cost around £30, with garage labour ranging from £50 to £100.

Is it easy to fix an oil leak myself?

It depends on the source of the leak; some may be DIY-able, while others require professional help.

What should I do if my suspension feels bouncy?

Check for worn shock absorbers or springs; replacing them may cost £100 to £300.