1986 Kia Sephia
Only 2 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict.
This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.
Only 2 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.
COMPLAINTS PER YEAR
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 1986 | 2 |
| 1994 | 16 |
| 1995 | 64 |
| 1996 | 118 |
| 1997 | 205 |
| 1998 | 491 |
| 1999 | 428 |
| 2000 | 266 |
| 2001 | 107 |
| 2002 | 6 |
| 2003 | 2 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
Only 2 complaints on file for this model year -- too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
1 of 2 total reports mentions: seat belts.
Show complaint excerpts
CHECK ENGINE LIGHT CONTINUES TO BLINK ON AND SEAT BELT DOES NOT LOCK . *AK
NHTSA ODI report, 19960709
1 of 2 total reports mentions: power train.
Show complaint excerpts
WHEN PULLING OUT OF A PARKING SPACE THERE WAS A LOUD BANGING NOISE, AND VEHICLE STALLED DUE TO TRANSMISSION GOING OUT. TRANSMISSION WAS REPLACED. *AK
NHTSA ODI report, 19990922
SAFETY TIMELINE
No recalls on file for this model year.
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
1986 Kia Sephia — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for seat belts issues (1 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for power train issues (1 reports on file for this year).
OTHER YEARS OF THIS MODEL
BEST YEARS
WORST YEARS
FAQ
Is the 1986 Kia Sephia reliable?
There isn't enough NHTSA complaint data on file yet to give this model year a verdict.
What are the most common problems with the 1986 Kia Sephia?
The most-reported component is seat belts:front:buckle assembly, accounting for 50% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 1986 Kia Sephia have?
No recalls are on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-07-11 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.