2005 Kia Spectra passed inspection as well as all diagnostic tests. Less than a year after owning it at approximately 85,722 miles, without warning, traveling through local streets slowly (at less than 5 mph) the transmission failed and actually exploded with such force that it left a 12 hole in the top portion of the transmission housing. Transmission fluid in the street and pieces of the transmission fell out. Leaving us stranded five hours from home. Towed to Kia dealership, and found out later via pictures, E-mail, phone calls and opinions from mechanics that there appeared to have been a defect in the manufacturing of the transmission. This defect is undetectable with the naked eye (because it was internal), this would not show up in diagnostics nor trip the check engine light. There is no way of knowing this is happening unless you can see inside the transmission by that time it is too late. Looking at the pictures you can actually see through the 12 hole and inside the transmission to see the internal workings. There you will see what is an approximate 3 groove in which a bent pin (from manufacturing) wore away at the metal till there was no more metal for it to hit. At which point it exploded with such force that it ripped a 12 hole in the top of the metal housing of the transmission (with 4 of us in the car at that time). We contacted Kia and advised them of situation as well as the expenses to repair and all they gave us was the run around! when asked they would not disclose where they sent the transmission. This is clearly a manufacturing issue and Kia should be held liable! transmissions do not explode! this needs to be investigated. This is a very serious issue and a safety concern! had this happen at 70 mph there would have been severe injuries! we have clear detailed pictures!

- Bay Shore, NY, USA