2008 KIA Sportage
Safety record from NHTSA: recalls, owner complaints, investigations and service bulletins.
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Vehicles › KIA › Sportage › 2008
These records cover every 2008 KIA Sportage. To see whether one car still needs a recall repair, decode its VIN or check it with NHTSA.
Recalls
3 recalls name the 2008 KIA Sportage. Newest first.
Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2008-2009 Sportage vehicles previously recalled under recall 16V-815. An engine compartment fire originating from around the Hydraulic Electronic Control Unit (HECU) may occur while parked or driving.
Risk and remedy
Risk
A fire increases the risk of injury.
Remedy
Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures and other vehicles until the recall repair has been performed. Dealers will inspect and replace the HECU, its wiring harness, and its fuses, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 22, 2022. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC253.
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain model year 2008-2009 Kia Sportage vehicles manufactured August 9, 2007, to May 13, 2009. The wire harness cover on the Hydraulic Electronic Control Unit (HECU) may be improperly sealed allowing water to get onto the HECU circuit board. If the water is contaminated with salt, such as could occur from melted…
Risk and remedy
Risk
If the HECU short circuits, there is an increased risk of an engine compartment fire.
Remedy
Kia will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the connector pins for corrosion, if no corrosion is found, the connector cover will be replaced. If corrosion is present, the dealer will replace the HECU assembly and the connector cover, free of charge. The recall began on November 28, 2016. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC138.
Kia Motors Corporation (Kia) is recalling certain model year 2007-2010 Rondo, model year 2007-2011 Sedona, Sorento and Sportage, model year 2010-2011 Soul, model year 2008-2011 Optima, model year 2010 Forte, model year 2007-2009 Amanti, and model year 2009 Borrego vehicles. Originally, in April 2013, Kia recalled 623,658 model year 2007-2010 Rondo and…
Risk and remedy
Risk
Failure to illuminate the stop lamps during braking or inability to disengage the cruise control could increase the risk of a crash. Additionally, when the ignition is in the 'ON' position, the transmission shifter may be able to be moved out of PARK without first applying the brake. This may lead to unintentional movement of the car which may increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Kia will send an interim notification to owners in May 2013. When parts are available, owners will receive a second notification and dealers will replace the stop lamp switch, free of charge. Owners may contact Kia at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's recall campaign number is SC098.
Owner complaints
98 complaints2 involved a crash24 involved a fire5 injuries
What owners report most
Latest complaints
- Electronic stability control (esc)
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…
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.
- Engine
Was parked and after driving to pick up please came back out and it was in flames
- Engine · Service brakes, hydraulic
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…
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.
- Service brakes, hydraulic
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…
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.
- Service brakes, hydraulic
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…
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. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact stated that the failure was related to NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V800000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic). The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was approximately 123,000.
- Service brakes
My ABS module has my brakes locked up
- Engine and engine cooling › Cooling system › Fan
The radiator fan component was smoking. The car is available at anytime for inspection. I definitely feared that the car was going to explode in front of my baby cousins and elderly Aunt. The car has not been reproduced or confirmed by a dealship or independent service center. It also has not been…
The radiator fan component was smoking. The car is available at anytime for inspection. I definitely feared that the car was going to explode in front of my baby cousins and elderly Aunt. The car has not been reproduced or confirmed by a dealship or independent service center. It also has not been inpected by manufacturer or police, insurance. The vehicle was not going faster than 30 mph, when parked, the radiator expelled the all the water on floor. It began to let out white smoke, and than black smoke. A lot of black smoke, and than a loud pop sound. The hood of the car melted shut. Everything that surrounds the radiator and battery was melted.
- Service brakes, hydraulic
The contact owns a 2008 Kia Sportage. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V800000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulics); however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The vehicle was taken to the dealer and the contact was informed that the vehicle needed to remain in…
The contact owns a 2008 Kia Sportage. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V800000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulics); however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The vehicle was taken to the dealer and the contact was informed that the vehicle needed to remain in dealer possession since the vehicle failed a safety test related to the recall. After several failed attempts to reach the dealer, the contact was informed that the part needed to repair the recall was discontinued and that she could pick up the vehicle. The manufacturer was notified, and a case was filed. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the repair. The contact had not experienced a failure. The vehicle remained in the possession of the dealer. The failure mileage was unavailable. Parts distribution disconnect.
- Service brakes, hydraulic › Antilock/traction control/electronic limited slip › Control unit/module
The contact owns a 2008 Kia Sportage. The contact stated that after driving at approximately 15 MPH, the vehicle was shifted into reverse and the accelerator pedal was depressed; however, the vehicle failed to respond. The contact shifted the gear shifter several times and then drove for a short…
The contact owns a 2008 Kia Sportage. The contact stated that after driving at approximately 15 MPH, the vehicle was shifted into reverse and the accelerator pedal was depressed; however, the vehicle failed to respond. The contact shifted the gear shifter several times and then drove for a short distance before the vehicle stalled. The check engine warning light was illuminated; the vehicle was able to be restarted. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic to be diagnosed. The contact stated that the ABS Hydraulic Control Unit needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The vehicle was then taken to a dealer where the vehicle was diagnosed and determined that the ABS Hydraulic Control Unit needed to be replaced. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 140,000.
- Engine
The contact owns a 2008 Kia Sportage. The contact stated that there was an abnormal burning odor detected. The vehicle failed to drive forward or reverse as needed. Additionally, the brakes seized. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer where it…
The contact owns a 2008 Kia Sportage. The contact stated that there was an abnormal burning odor detected. The vehicle failed to drive forward or reverse as needed. Additionally, the brakes seized. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer where it was diagnosed and determined that the ABS hydraulic module needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was contacted and informed the contact that the vehicle was not covered under a recall. The failure mileage was approximately 145,000.
- Structure › Body
I bought my car July 27,2022 from Rt 119 Auto Sales and service. It came with a drive train warrenty. Nothing was said to me of a problem until I took it to get inspected then I found out my frame is rotted out on both sides.
- Engine
2008 KIA sportage. Consumer writes in regard to vehicle catching fire while parked the consumer stated she wants to be compensated for the loss of the vehicle.
- Service brakes, air › Antilock › Abs warning light
The contact owns a 2008 Kia Sportage. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked and unattended, the vehicle caught fire. The ABS warning light was illuminated before the failure. The fire department extinguished the fire. There were no reported injuries. A police report was filed under…
The contact owns a 2008 Kia Sportage. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked and unattended, the vehicle caught fire. The ABS warning light was illuminated before the failure. The fire department extinguished the fire. There were no reported injuries. A police report was filed under case number 22027268. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was approximately 112,000.
- Electrical system · Power train · Service brakes
Smoke was pouring out from the passenger front side of the motor compartment. The fuses for the ABS (I think) were taken out so it would stop. I was a told a control module could have something to do with it.
- Structure › Body › Hood › Hinge and attachments › Support device/strut
The contact owns a 2008 Kia Sportage. The contact stated while checking the oil in their vehicle, the hood latch suddenly did not lock and the front hood of the vehicle fell down and on the contact's head which caused her nose to fracture. The contact stated she has a laceration on the bridge of…
The contact owns a 2008 Kia Sportage. The contact stated while checking the oil in their vehicle, the hood latch suddenly did not lock and the front hood of the vehicle fell down and on the contact's head which caused her nose to fracture. The contact stated she has a laceration on the bridge of their nose where they were bleeding and the contact has two black eyes. The contact did not receive any medical treatment at the scene or go to the hospital. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not made of the failure. The failure mileage was 167,000.
- Unknown or other
The contact owns a 2008 Kia Sportage. The contact stated while driving 35 MPH, the check engine warning light illuminated. The contact took the vehicle back to the used car dealer where she purchased the vehicle and was informed that the 02 sensors and another unknown component needed to be…
The contact owns a 2008 Kia Sportage. The contact stated while driving 35 MPH, the check engine warning light illuminated. The contact took the vehicle back to the used car dealer where she purchased the vehicle and was informed that the 02 sensors and another unknown component needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired however, the failure persisted. The contact called the local dealer and made them aware of the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer had not been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 129,232.
- Structure › Body
The contact owns a 2008 Kia Sportage. The contact stated while inspecting under the vehicle, he noticed the subframe was corroded. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. A dealer was not contacted. The manufacturer had been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 155,000.
- Engine · Vehicle speed control
I was driving on the highway with the cruse control set at 65 and the vechile started to increase speed on it's own I attempted to turn off the cruse control by pressing the brake and turning off the system the car slowed until I removed my foot from the brake, then it began to accelerate again.…
I was driving on the highway with the cruse control set at 65 and the vechile started to increase speed on it's own I attempted to turn off the cruse control by pressing the brake and turning off the system the car slowed until I removed my foot from the brake, then it began to accelerate again. Once I was able to stop the vehicle the engine continued to try and force it's way back to moving speed on it's own, I was able to get the vehicle in park and the engine speed increased to full throttle on it's own. I was able to shut down the engine and restart the vehicle, it was behaving normally about 10 minutes of driving later I attempted to stop the vehicle and the problem returned and it started accelerating again on it's own. I was able to shut the vehicle down
- Power train · Unknown or other
While driving rpms would jump. Had vehicle inspected and was told I would need to replace the transmission or get it rebuilt. Replaced the transmission but didn't seem to resolve the issue. Rpm's still jump while driving. Almost as if I'm pushing the gas down hard then letting off. Not sure what…
While driving rpms would jump. Had vehicle inspected and was told I would need to replace the transmission or get it rebuilt. Replaced the transmission but didn't seem to resolve the issue. Rpm's still jump while driving. Almost as if I'm pushing the gas down hard then letting off. Not sure what the issue may be, ive been told it could be the cruise control or possibly shift solenoid. Vehicle stalls/jumps while in motion, happens on interstate as well as city streets and back roads. Seems to jerk more around 40mph and 80mph but has done it at different speeds as well. Oil has been changed as well as filters, all fluids look good. Unsure what the issue may be. *tr
- Electronic stability control (esc) · Service brakes
While driving at a continuous speed of 55mph on the main road, the esc light randomly came on and the car jolted into 1ST gear. I was unable to move it and it was towed back to my house. Since then, the brake pedal goes to the floor without stopping the vehicle.
- Fuel/propulsion system · Suspension
This car IS 12 years old and IS unsafe to drive. That IS what the mechanic just told me when I tried to get an alignment. The whole rear subframe IS rusted out.which IS ridiculous for a 2008 vehicle.car pulls drastically to the right also needs new ball jointsalso needs a new oxygen sensor
- Engine · Structure › Body
My KIA sportage was parked in front of a garage was not turned on and was in park when the engine suddenly caught fire it sounded like a loud bomb. The front of the vehicle was destroyed the vehicle was not salvageable.
- Engine
Catalytic converter problems. Keeps failing emissions inspection
- Structure › Body
Rusted out rocker panel due to having a recall with the underside coating . Kinda guessing when I took my car to do the underside at the century 3 KIA dealership
- Electrical system · Electronic stability control (esc) · Wheels
So I have been having problems with my front right tire I feel that it wiggles and wobbles a clog my alignment to get my stuff and I always need work done on it about every 2 to 3 months. I have also been having problems continuously getting locked out of my car. My car on or off always locks me…
So I have been having problems with my front right tire I feel that it wiggles and wobbles a clog my alignment to get my stuff and I always need work done on it about every 2 to 3 months. I have also been having problems continuously getting locked out of my car. My car on or off always locks me out of my car. My passenger door never locks unless I lock it myself manually. My trunk door never opens as well when I push the unlock button and the key mailed it won't fit in it to unlock it that way I feel that the car over or has a wiring electrical problem
Defect investigations
NHTSA’s Office of Defects Investigation opened these reviews into vehicles including this one.
- Hyundai and Kia ABS Module Fires
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) has received eight Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) and eight Kia America, Inc. (Kia) Part 573 Recall Reports between 2016 and 2023. The combined 16 safety recalls all involve the antilock braking system (ABS) modules or Hydraulic Electronic Control Units (HECU) manufactured by…
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) has received eight Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) and eight Kia America, Inc. (Kia) Part 573 Recall Reports between 2016 and 2023. The combined 16 safety recalls all involve the antilock braking system (ABS) modules or Hydraulic Electronic Control Units (HECU) manufactured by the equipment supplier Mando. The Part 573 Recall Reports contain varying defect descriptions and differing remedy descriptions for the same or similar equipment supplied by Mando. Safety recalls included in this Audit Query (AQ) review include: Hyundai recalls 20V-520, 20V-543, 21V-161, 21V-160, 21V-303, 22V-056, 22V-810, and 23V-651. Kia recalls 16V-815, 20V-518, 20V-519, 21V-137, 21V-331, 22V-051, 22V-800, and 23V-652 The purpose of this AQ is to evaluate the timeliness and scoping of Hyundai and Kia’s defect decision making and adherence with reporting requirements; and understand the varying defect descriptions and remedies between these recalls.
Service bulletins
Technical service bulletins and other communications the manufacturer sent dealers about this vehicle. Ask a dealer for the full document by its number.
- 11000787This bulletin provides information relating to the correct transmission fluid type and fill quantity requirement for each Kia model. A flush is required ONLY when a transmission is replaced.
- 10226555TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: TRANSMISSION FLUID APPLICATION GUIDE - This bulletin provides information relating to the correct transmission fluid type and fill quantity requirement for each Kia model. A flush is required ONLY when a transmission is replaced, refer to applicable vehicles in the chart starting on page 2.
- 10201529TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: INFORMATION FOR HEADLAMP CONDENSATION AND MOISTURE - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. New/revised sections of this bulletin are indicated by a black bar in the margin area. This bulletin provides information relating to some Kia models that may exhibit fogging, condensation, and/or moisture inside a headlamp assembly. Generally, a fogging condition is considered normal and can be eliminated by turning on the headlamps with the engine running for up to 30 minutes or during normal driving conditions. Headlamp assembly replacement WILL NOT be necessary in most cases.
- 10183431TSB - USE OF AFTERMARKET USB CHARGING CABLES IN USB/12V PORTS - This article provides information regarding the use of USB ports and 12V power outlets to connect/charge mobile phones. Customers may experience issues with their head units that may be related to the use of aftermarket USB charging cables, including; * Electrical interference and limited or no functionality when attempting to play music, or when charging a device through the USB port * Excessive static or noise when listening to the audio source * Malfunctions and screen freeze of the head unit screen * Slow down of the system response while device is plugged in * Music will not play from iPhone 5 or 6 with Kia iPod cable and aftermarket adapter * No or limited functionality when trying to play music from an Apple device
- 10133170PITSTOP - ENGINE COMPONENT RE-USE GUIDELINES - In general, parts and components removed during engine repairs should be considered serviceable, and should be thoroughly cleaned and transferred to the new engine.
- 10109812TSB: MANDATORY REPLACEMENT OF LOCKING/SECURITY HARDWARE - By design, certain fasteners, which are designed to lock into place once fully attached, are utilized in various Kia models and are strictly intended for ?one time use.? Some examples are: axle shaft nuts with stake collar, cotter pins, washers with locking tabs and other similar hardware, including threaded fasteners with pre-applied ?thread-locking adhesives.? It is critical for technicians to be aware that ALL such locking fasteners, regardless of type, are for ?one time use? only.
- 10109777TSB: MANDATORY REPLACEMENT OF LOCKING/SECURITY HARDWARE - By design, certain fasteners utilized in various Kia models are strictly intended for ?one time use?. Though not limited to the following, some examples are: axle shaft nuts with stake collar, cotter pins, washers with locking tabs and other similar hardware, including threaded fasteners with pre-applied ?thread-locking adhesives.?
- 10109639Q AND A - SC104 ? 2005-2010 MY Sportage - Application of Additional Anti-Corrosion Material to Underbody of Vehicle Voluntary Service Campaign
- 10109638OWNER NOTIFICATION LETTER - Dear Kia Sportage Owner: Kia Motors America, Inc. is conducting a Voluntary Service Campaign to add additional anti-corrosion wax and undercoating to the underbody of certain 2005-2010 MY Sportage vehicles.
- 10109637DEALER PARTS & SERVICE MANAGER MEMO: Attention: All Kia Parts & Service Managers - Kia Motors America, Inc. is conducting a Voluntary Service Campaign on certain 2005-2010 MY Sportage vehicles produced from June 24, 2004 through January 26, 2010, to add additional anti-corrosion materials to the vehicle underbody.
- 10109636DEALER PRINCIPAL MEMO: Attention: All Dealer Principals - Kia Motors America, Inc. will be conducting a voluntary service campaign, as a preventative measure, to apply additional anti-corrosion material to the vehicle underbody on certain 2005-2010 MY Sportage vehicles, manufactured from June 24, 2004 through January 26, 2010.
- 10109629VOLUNTARY SERVICE CAMPAIGN: APPLICATION OF ADDITIONAL ANTI-CORROSION MATERIAL (SC104) - To improve customer satisfaction, Kia is launching this bulletin to apply additional anti-corrosion protection to various vehicle underbody components on some Sportage (KM) vehicles, built from June 24, 2004 through January 26, 2010.
- 10092102Pitstop: stop lamp switch identification matrix (sc098) - kma has received a number of incorrect warranty return parts related to campaign sc098 and has determined that at times dealer staff may have difficulty in quickly and easily identifying the correct switches while ordering parts, preparing to perform the stop lamp replacement or while preparing to return replaced switches to kma (in case of an existing mandatory part return (mpr) request). To facilitate faster and easier identification of the correct parts, a picture guide as shown on page 2 IS provided. The guides content was purposely formatted to fit on one page so it can be easily printed and kept on or near a workstation, parts counter or tool box.
- 10090713Tsb: windshield washer pump inlet filter replacement - this bulletin provides information relating to possible foreign debris accumulation on the windshield washer pump inlet filter. Over time, some KIA vehicles may exhibit a limited application of windshield washer fluid when the washer function IS used. Limited application of windshield washer fluid can be caused by foreign debris on the washer pump inlet filter. To correct this condition, replace the washer pump inlet filter and perform the windshield washer reservoir flushing procedure outlined in this tsb.
- 10060662Summary to be provided on a future date.
- 10055496Some KIA sportage models vehicles are affected by corrosion which needs anti corrosion protection. 06/04/14*Lj
- 10037694KIA motors: for fuel adaption improvement there IS a software update for the 2007-2008 sportage.
- 10034644KIA: tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) receiver upgrade; change of TPMS software (sa049). Some vehicles have low line tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS). Some vehicles may experience illumination of the TPMS warning lamp indicating that there IS a problem with the TPMS system even though tire pressure IS acceptable.
- 10034511KIA: combined tsb/service action-ecm upgrade-mil o with dtc p0130/p0150. Provides information related to an ecm/ecu/pcm software upgrade of some model vehicles equipped with 2.7L engines which may experience a malfunction indicator lamp illuminated with ecm (electronic control module) system related dtc p0130 and/or p0150.
- 10034495KIA: application of additional anticorrosion treatment for rear floor members. Provides information relating to certain vehicles for procedure to apply additional anticorrosion protection to the rear floor side and cross members.
- 10030290KIA: load carrying capacity label requirements and instructions to comply with fmvss 110. Providing information for the new requirements related to load carrying capacity (lcc) when certain accessories are added to a completed vehicle pri0r to first retail sale.
- 10026726KIA: all models. Article provides information relating to the improved durability of bulb life for rear combination bulb; rear stop lamp/tail lamp bulb utilized on multiple KIA models.
- 10024714Sportage (km) passive occupant detection system information - this bulletin provides system information related to sportage (km) models regarding passive occupant detection system (pods) produced from 10/28/2004.
Every KIA Sportage model year
Bars are owner complaints, dots mark years with recalls. Select a year to open its report.