2003 Kia Sportage
Only 4 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 4 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 |
|---|---|
| 1995 | 56 |
| 1996 | 57 |
| 1997 | 181 |
| 1998 | 303 |
| 1999 | 284 |
| 2000 | 304 |
| 2001 | 228 |
| 2002 | 234 |
| 2003 | 4 |
| 2005 | 68 |
| 2006 | 111 |
| 2007 | 77 |
| 2008 | 98 |
| 2009 | 80 |
| 2010 | 20 |
| 2011 | 181 |
| 2012 | 392 |
| 2013 | 380 |
| 2014 | 122 |
| 2015 | 146 |
| 2016 | 130 |
| 2017 | 394 |
| 2018 | 158 |
| 2019 | 68 |
| 2020 | 153 |
| 2021 | 46 |
| 2022 | 42 |
| 2023 | 182 |
| 2024 | 64 |
| 2025 | 49 |
| 2026 | 19 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
Only 4 complaints on file for this model year -- too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
2 of 4 total reports mention: fuel system, gasoline.
Show complaint excerpts
APRIL 11, 2011 TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN, THIS LETTER IS TO OFFICIALLY SUBMIT A COMPLAINT ABOUT THE SAFETY OF OUR 2003 KIA SORENTO WITH MILEAGE OF 109209 MY HUSBAND AND I PURCHASED THIS VEHICLE BEFORE THE BIRTH OF OUR BABY BACK IN MAY 2010,...
NHTSA ODI report, 20110411
1 of 4 total reports mentions: engine and engine cooling.
Show complaint excerpts
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 KIA SPORTAGE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT A COUPLE OF YEARS AGO, THE BLADES ON HIS COOLING FAN BEGAN TO COME OFF, CAUSING THE VEHICLE TO OVERHEAT. THE DEALER COULD NOT FIND ANYTHING WRONG WITH THE VEHICLE.
NHTSA ODI report, 20070614
SAFETY TIMELINE
No recalls on file for this model year.
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
2003 Kia Sportage — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for fuel system, gasoline issues (2 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for engine and engine cooling issues (1 reports on file for this year).
OTHER YEARS OF THIS MODEL
BEST YEARS
WORST YEARS
FAQ
Is the 2003 Kia Sportage 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 2003 Kia Sportage?
The most-reported component is fuel system, gasoline, accounting for 50% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 2003 Kia Sportage 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.