9.5

really awful
Crashes / Fires:
0 / 0
Injuries / Deaths:
0 / 0
Average Mileage:
1,000 miles

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problem #1

Oct 282005

Spectra 4-cyl

  • Automatic transmission
  • 1,000 miles
I purchased my Kia Spectra on 8/26/05 and by the middle of October there was a grinding, rubbing noise that could be heard in the steering, especially when turning. The vehicle had approximately 1000 miles on it at the time. Shortly after this noise started the check engine light started coming on. I had a very difficult time trying to get the vehicle in to the dealership where I purchased it, jeffrey Kia in roseville, Michigan. Initially for the first week to week and a half they would not respond to emails or phone messages. When I finally was able to get the vehicle in the service desk person claimed the service techs had a difficult time determining where the noise was coming from, even though it was heard several others very clearly. Finally after keeping my car for an entire day they decided it needed a new steering assembly - supposedly just because a bushing was bad. They never gave me a straight answer as to why the entire steering assembly had to be replaced if only a bushing was bad. They also determined the 02 sensor was faulty. There is a recall on my make vehicle but does not include my vehicle as it was assembled after the recall period. I strongly suspect they know my vehicle is subject to the same problem and that is why they replaced the entire steering assembly. However, 2 days after picking up my vehicle I am again hearing the same grinding noise while driving and especially during tight turns. I have contacted the president and vice-president of jeffrey Kia and they refuse to return my calls. I am attempting to go to another dealer.

- Sterling Heights, MI, USA