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2017 Kia Sportage problems

A 2017 Kia Sportage is now 9 years old, so an average example has covered around 121,500 miles. This is the first model year of the generation · early-build cars carry the highest share of teething faults and the most recall activity, so check the service history for completed recall work. Check the state safety inspection and service history alongside the documented faults below, which are sorted by whether a 2017 car has usually reached the mileage where they appear.

Compiled & reviewed by the VehicleFaults Research Team

Quick answer

The 2017 Kia Sportage is 9 years old, so an average example has covered roughly 121,500 miles. At that mileage 6 of the documented faults are already due, so check those first.

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Faults a 2017 example has usually reached

Documented onset mileage is at or below the ~122k miles an average 2017 car has covered.

EngineCritical

2.4 GDI engine failure / bearing knock.

Typically appears
70,000+ miles
What to inspect
Listen for knock and confirm engine recall/warranty history.
EngineHigh

Oil consumption on GDI engines.

Typically appears
60,000+ miles
What to inspect
Check oil level and top-up history.
SteeringMedium

Clunking or clicking noise when turning the wheel

Typically appears
50,000-80,000 miles
What to inspect
With the engine running and vehicle stationary, rock the steering wheel rapidly left and right by a few degrees. Listen for a distinct knock from the steering column indicating a worn flexible coupling bush.
EmissionsHigh

DPF blockage and rising engine oil levels on CRDi models

Typically appears
40,000-70,000 miles
What to inspect
Pull the dipstick and check if the oil level is significantly above the maximum mark, which indicates diesel dilution from failed DPF regenerations. Rev to 2,500 rpm to check for hesitation or excessive exhaust soot.
SuspensionMedium

Knocking from the rear over bumps and uneven tyre wear

Typically appears
60,000-90,000 miles
What to inspect
Push down firmly on the rear corners of the vehicle to listen for squeaks or knocks. Inspect the inner edges of the rear tyres for stepping or severe wear, indicating failing rear trailing arm bushes.
Climate ControlLow

Air conditioning fails to blow cold air

Typically appears
40,000-60,000 miles
What to inspect
Set the A/C to maximum cold and lowest fan speed; check for ice-cold air within 60 seconds. Shine a torch through the lower front grille to inspect the condenser for dark, oily patches indicating refrigerant leaks.

Faults that appear at any mileage

Age, electronics and build-related issues that are not mileage-driven.

TransmissionMedium

1.6T dual-clutch hesitation.

Typically appears
Any
What to inspect
Test-drive for jerky low-speed shifts.
ElectricalLow

Infotainment and camera glitches.

Typically appears
Age-related
What to inspect
Test the screen and cameras.

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Kia Sportage · frequently asked questions

Is the Sportage reliable?

Good value but check GDI engine history and oil consumption.

Which engine should I choose?

The 2.4 GDI needs history checks; the 1.6T is livelier but has the dual-clutch.

Any Sportage recalls?

Engine and ABS-related campaigns exist; confirm completion.

What is the timing belt replacement interval on the diesel engines?

The 1.7 CRDi and 2.0 CRDi engines use a timing chain rather than a belt, which is designed to last the lifetime of the engine. However, the auxiliary drive belts require inspection every 20,000 miles or 24 months, and replacement if cracking or fraying is present to prevent alternator or water pump failure.

Does the 4th generation Sportage suffer from AWD system failures?

Yes, AWD models can suffer from transfer box or rear differential issues, often caused by mismatched tyre tread depths across the axles. This stresses the centre coupling. Always ensure all four tyres are of the same brand and have similar tread wear. A whining noise from the rear indicates differential bearing wear.

Are there any specific checks for the mild-hybrid (MHEV) variants?

Introduced later in the QL's lifecycle, the 1.6 CRDi 48V mild-hybrid system relies on a battery located under the boot floor. Dealers should check the dashboard for any hybrid system warning lights and ensure the stop-start system engages seamlessly. Replacing a degraded 48V battery is highly expensive, so verify its health during diagnostics.

Other Sportage model years

202220202019

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