Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2017 Kia Sportage
The 2017 Kia Sportage has a moderate number of complaints and four recalls concerning engine, electrical issues, and brake systems. While some defects have been noted, like engine problems and short-circuit risks, the data for other issues is sparse. Prospective buyers should conduct thorough inspections, with a focus on these areas to ensure safety and reliability.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2017 Kia Sportage has 4 NHTSA recall campaigns and 404 owner complaints on file as of . Recall data is refreshed daily from NHTSA.
NCAP overall rating: 5.0 out of 5 stars, averaged across 2 NHTSA-tested trims.
Recall campaigns on file
- NHTSA #22V703000 Tow Hitch Harness Fire While Parked or Driving NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #21V137000 Engine Compartment Fire NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #18V907000 High Pressure Fuel Pipe May Leak NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #16V862000 Trailer Brakes May Stay Illuminated/FMVSS 108 NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Engine 222 complaints
- Unknown or Other 69 complaints
- Electrical System 63 complaints
- Power Train 41 complaints
- Structure 24 complaints
- Fuel/Propulsion System 21 complaints
Of the 404 complaints on file, 14 report a crash and 28 a fire; across all 404 complaints, owners report 19 injuries (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
Risk of engine fire
How to check: Check for recall completion and any signs of damage or overheating.
Short-circuit potential in control unit
How to check: Ask about recall repairs and inspect for burning smells or visible damage.
Antilock brake system faults
How to check: Confirm recall repairs and test braking efficiency during drive.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Check for unusual engine noises.
Red flag: Loud knocking or ticking sounds.
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Observe dashboard warning lights.
Red flag: Persistent warning lights on dash.
- 03
Low-speed braking
What to check: Test the brake pedal for responsiveness.
Red flag: Unusual stiffness or softness in pedal.
- 04
City acceleration
What to check: Feel for smooth power delivery.
Red flag: Hesitation or lack of power.
- 05
Highway driving
What to check: Listen for wind noise or vibrations.
Red flag: Excessive noise or shaking.
- 06
Parking
What to check: Check for smooth steering motion.
Red flag: Steering has play or resistance.
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Has the engine recall been completed?
- Any history of electrical problems?
- Brake system serviced recently?
- Why are you selling the vehicle?
- Any issues with the fuel system?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Recall repair records
- Maintenance log
- Vehicle history report
- Title and registration
- Warranty documents
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2017 Kia Sportage at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
Looking at a specific 2017 Kia Sportage? Check the actual car
This checklist covers the model. From your free try.vin dashboard you can go further — paste the seller's listing for a deal score, or drop their photos for an AI condition report.