1996 Kia Sportage Recalls
NHTSA lists 3 recall campaigns for the 1996 Kia Sportage. A recall applies only to vehicles built within the affected range, so check your own VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. Repairs for recalls are free at a franchised dealer.
- Seat belts › Front › Buckle assemblyCovers: Kia Sportage 1995–1998, Sephia 1995–1998
Reported issue: On certain passenger vehicles, the safety belt buckle may "false latch" and expose the driver to unrestrained movement during a crash.
Possible consequence: In the event of a crash, the seat occupant may not be properly restrained, increasing the risk of personal injury.
Remedy: Owner notification began december 20, 2002. Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact kia at 1-800-333-4542.
- Latches/locks/linkages › Hatchback/liftgate › LockCovers: Kia Sportage 1996–1997
Reported issue: Vehicle description: passenger vehicles. A microswitch on the rear hatch lock cylinder can malfunction causing the power door locks to unlock inadvertently.
Possible consequence: Should this occur, security from unwanted intrusion into the vehicle is lost.
Remedy: Dealers will modify the rear hatch door unlock circuit.
- Vehicle speed control › Accelerator pedalCovers: Kia Sportage 1996
Reported issue: The accelerator pedal assembly could bind or stick during operation.
Possible consequence: This condition can cause the accelerator to hold the throttle partially open, resulting in loss of vehicle control increasing the risk of a vehicle accident.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the accelerator pedal assembly.
NHTSA investigations
- EA06007Fuel tank leakageClosed · May 9, 2006
← All problems reported for the 1996 Kia Sportage
About this data. Data from NHTSA (ODI) complaints, recalls, TSBs and investigations, updated Oct 31, 2026. Complaints are unverified consumer reports and may be duplicated or inaccurate.