Which parts fail
Components named in complaints (automatic and manual transmissions, CVT, axles, driveshaft, 4WD/AWD).
Mileage when the problem started
Owner reports
Selected complaints filed with NHTSA by 1997 Kia Sephia owners, lightly cleaned up (personal details are redacted by NHTSA).
I noticed a clunking sound in my front end of my 1997 Kia Sephia. This car only has 49,000 miles on it. I took it in to the dealer and was told I needed new axle shafts on both sides. The dealer informed me he would have to order the parts overnight and that he did not want me to pick up the vehicle until it was fixed because it was not safe to drive. The axle shafts are crumbling and he has no explanation as to why. He said you don't see that in Kia vehicles. Thankfully there was no accident but had I waited the consequences could have been devastating. My car is currently at the dealer for repairs, and I have asked them to hold on to the axle shafts when they are removed.
When I bought the car the brakes felt bad because I had to push the brake all the way to the floor. After having it for 2 weeks other thing started to go wrong. I had to buy a cap and rotor and get spark plug and wires. Now the transmission is messing up. They are not willing to put me in something better. They want me to pay on a junk car that I will always have to be fixing day after day.
Seems like every 3-4 months brakes start to pulsate, 3 times so far, each time replaced, being told that wrong style being used, engine check light just started acting up for the 6th time, each time being told it is sensors or ground connections. Just noticed the clutch problem of going too low to floor for the 6th time, each time being told something different. This is getting old. Went to open drivers door one day an handle would not work. Was leaking fluid from right front side of vehicle another time to find it was the axle seal, which was replaced 2 times. Getting ready to tell dealer they can have this car. For only having less than 14,000 miles, too much is happening too often.
During the past week, I have had to have both drive axles replaced on my 1997 Kia Sephia (at a cost of over $400) due to a vibration when the vehicle is moving. Unfortunately, this hasn't completely resolved my problem. I have been informed of a couple of things that I think should point to the need for a recall: (1) this problem is unique to the 1997 model year; (2) mid-way through the 1997 model year, the design for the drive axels was changed and my vehicle was manufactured prior to this change. Surely a change during the manufacturing year would indicate a design flaw. Dt
Ongoing problem with battery failure; dealer notified, and replaced faulty battery on two occasions, and problem reoccurred. Also, and problem engine hesitation. Dealer notified. The consumer found out right after leasing the vehicle, that the radio was inoperable. The vehicle began squeeking in the rear end when turning. The heater malfunctioned. The left rear strut assembly failed causing knocking noise at right rear. The o-ring failed causeing the distributor leak and there was loss of power while driving.
Transmission- drove car to dealer because of suspected axel problem(reacurring), was unable to drive it out of dealership, they replaced axel (3rd time) then said it was transmission problem. I told them not to do transmission work, they removed new axel( said it wasn't defective after all) had car towed at my expense from dealership. Axel was replaced 1st time, broke within 30 days, repaired again. 11 months later started having same problem. Brakes replaced 3 times. Tires replaced 3 times in 3 years.
While driving differential went out/ digital laser failed to work on cd panel/ power window electrical switch stopped working, and engine check light came on & did not go off. Dashboard covering was separating from window. There was water in the headlights, and battery would go dead. Took vehicle to dealer. Vehicle needed alignment due to problem with transmission & the brake assembly needed replacing due to excessive wear.
While driving at any speed, vehicle completely shutsdown without warning, dealer has yet to be contatced. Consumer said when he purchased the vehicle engine light was on and engine shuts off whenever stopping, took back to dealer many times for repair, vehicle is experiencing the same problem. Consumer also stated the speedometer is acting erractically, the overdrive light has illuminated.
While driving about any MPH vehicle will suddenly accelerate without a prior warning.consumer will step on brakes pedal to stop acceleration, but vehicle will not stop, and concerned about fact of an accident. Transmission failed. Brakes make noise due to rotor failure. Wiper blades failed. Battery failed.
While driving vehicle had a leaking problem from rear. Took vehicle to dealership, and mechanic indicated that brakes had only dust on them, and it was okay to drive. Drove vehicle on freeway and right rear axle broke, causing tire to roll down interstate. Vehicle was towed back to dealership.
Transmission complaints in other Sephia years
Frequently asked questions
How common are transmission problems on the 1997 Kia Sephia?
NHTSA has 30 complaints about the transmission & drivetrain of the 1997 Kia Sephia, 15% of the model year's 205 complaints. The component named most often is automatic transmission (17 mentions).
Is there a recall for 1997 Kia Sephia transmission problems?
No. NHTSA lists no transmission & drivetrain recall for the 1997 Kia Sephia, though it has 1 recall for other components. If the problem is widespread, a repair may still be covered by an extended warranty or a manufacturer service bulletin — ask a dealer.
At what mileage do 1997 Kia Sephia transmission problems start?
Half of the complaints with a recorded mileage happened before about 63,000 miles.
Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) — owner complaints through October 20, 2026, recalls and defect investigations; fuel economy from the EPA. Complaints are unverified reports and are not proof of a defect. How we rate model years.