CarRecallWatchThe 2008 Kia Sportage has 3 safety recalls on file with NHTSA.
Owners have filed 98 complaints with NHTSA, including 2 crashes, 24 fires, 5 injuries.
The most-reported problem area is Electrical System (27 reports).
2008 Kia Sportage recalls
Engine Fire Risk From Brake Control Module
The electronic control unit that runs the anti-lock brake and traction control system can overheat and start a fire in the engine compartment.
Water Can Corrode Brake Module Wiring, Causing Engine Fire Risk
On certain 2008-2009 Kia Sportage vehicles, the cover over the wire harness connector on the Hydraulic Electronic Control Unit (HECU) may not be sealed properly.
Most common 2008 Kia Sportage problems
Problem areas named in the 98 complaints owners filed with NHTSA.
| Problem area | Reports |
|---|---|
| Electrical System | 27 |
| Engine | 17 |
| Service Brakes | 15 |
| Structure | 13 |
| Power Train | 12 |
| Electronic Stability Control (Esc) | 9 |
| Service Brakes, Hydraulic | 7 |
| Exterior Lighting | 7 |
| Engine And Engine Cooling | 5 |
| Air Bags | 5 |
What owners report
The contact owns a 2008 Kia Sportage. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the message "ESC Off" was displayed and the vehicle failed to accelerate as needed. The contact stated that the failure had been recurring intermittently. The vehicle was taken to the dealer and to several independent mechanics; however, the failure could not be duplicated. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.
Was parked and after driving to pick up please came back out and it was in flames
The contact owned a 2008 Kia Sportage. The contact stated while driving 40-45 MPH, the check engine warning light illuminated, and the vehicle was shuddering. Additionally, the contact stated while driving on another occasion, the vehicle experienced brake failure, which nearly led to a crash. An unknown dealer was notified of the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, but no assistance was provided. The contact decided to total the vehicle. The vehicle was totaled. The failure mileage was approximately 117,000.
The contact owns a 2008 Kia Sportage. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V800000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
The contact owns a 2008 Kia Sportage. The contact stated that while driving at undisclosed speeds, the brakes locked up. The contact removed the fuses. The contact called the local dealer, but the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. While his daughter was driving, an abnormal dinging sound was detected. The contact changed the calipers and noticed that the ABS box was stuck. The brake warning light was illuminated. The contact put the fuse back in the vehicle. Additionally, the vehicle was leaking brake fluid. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, who stated that the brake pedal was soft and not to drive the vehicle. The dealer informed the contact that the parts were not available.
2008 Kia Sportage questions
Does the 2008 Kia Sportage have any recalls?
Yes. NHTSA lists 3 safety recalls for the 2008 Kia Sportage: Engine Fire Risk From Brake Control Module; Water Can Corrode Brake Module Wiring, Causing Engine Fire Risk; Exterior Lighting:Brake Lights:Switch. Recall repairs are normally free at an authorized dealer.
What are the most common problems with the 2008 Kia Sportage?
Based on 98 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the most-reported problem areas are Electrical System (27), Engine (17), Service Brakes (15).
How do I check if a recall on my 2008 Kia Sportage has been fixed?
Enter your 17-character VIN in our VIN recall check. It shows open recalls that have not been repaired on your specific vehicle. Recall repairs are normally free at an authorized dealer.