The 4WD system on the 98 Kia Sportage is unreliable. The vacuum system, which actuates the front hubs does not work. I have had the vehicle in for this problem every winter since I purchased the vehicle in 1998. The dealers repair lasts a week or so and then fails. Unexpected lack of 4WD is a safety issue.

- Woodbridge, VA, USA

After getting stuck in snow found that 4 wheel drive wasn't engaging - mechanic said due to someone over packing components with grease and a part put in backwards there was no way the 4 wheel drive was engaging. So essentially we haven't had 4 wheel drive since we purchased our vehicle in 2000. After the part was installed properly 4WD was engaging. May 16th brought in vehicle due to grinding noise in front wheel hub. Mechanic found 4WD hub rust filled and bad, bearings all rusted out, vacuum hoses to the back of the spindle broken both sides. Both front wheels had same problem. In checking your complaints on file there are many for the same problem, same year and vehicle.

- New Ipswich, NH, USA

The 4 wheel drive did work and rear the brakes were not in line.

- Dorchester, MA, USA

The 4-wheel drive did not hold while driving up a hill, which caused the vehicle to spin.

- Mountain City, TN, USA

The 4 wheel drive does no engage when put in gear. Took to dealer who installed some type of child safety device under the clutch. Problem is still occurring.

- Dorcas, WV, USA

The 4-wheel drive system failed to engage due to a bad seal, the seal causes the vacuum not to engage properly.

- Martins Ferry, OH, USA

Four wheel drive locks up wheels causing poor control.

- Palisades, NJ, USA