1998 Kia Sportage Recalls
NHTSA lists 3 recall campaigns for the 1998 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.
- Electrical system › WiringCovers: Kia Sportage 1997–1999
Reported issue: Vehicle description: sport utility vehicles. The wires connected to the c123 and c124 connectors can be put under tension by movement of the engine, thus pulling the wires and connectors, loosening them and resulting in a loss of circuit continuity.
Possible consequence: This condition can cause engine stalling, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will install spring clips to lock the connectors together. In addition, the dealers will be instructed to solder a splice in the wire harness.
- Service brakes, hydraulic › Foundation components › Hoses, lines/piping, and fittingsCovers: Kia Sportage 1998–1999
Reported issue: Vehicle description: sport utility vehicles without an anti-lock braking system (abs). The steering intermediate shaft coupling can contact a hydraulic brake pipe causing fluid leakage.
Possible consequence: This condition can cause a loss of rear brake increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect and, if necessary, increase the clearance between the brake pipe and steering intermediate shaft coupling.
NHTSA investigations
← All problems reported for the 1998 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.