2001 Kia Sephia Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

3.56/5 Average
55 Total Reviews

User Reviews:

Showing 1 through 10 of 55.00
  • Worst car ever - 2001 Kia Sephia
    By -

    I got this car brand new for around $11k. I have had to replace the starter twice in the 10 yrs Ive had it. It also KILLS brakes. Ive had to have the rear brakes completely redone twice. The front brakes always squeek. The EBrake needs constant adjusting and interferes with the function of the rear brakes. The door handle drive side busted off after I tried to get out when it was freezing outside. The door wont shut when its freezing out even after running the defrost for 20 mins. Its extremely thin body allows a ton of air and road noise, especially on the freeway.. it is really scary driving at high speeds. It doesnt handle very well and constantly needs alignment.

  • Practical and reliable - 2001 Kia Sephia
    By -

    I purchased this vehicle because of its warranty after being talked-down-to by several used car dealers. It gets over 32 mpg, has lots of pick up and speed. The lumbar support helps my bad back where my former car, a Sable, left me uncofortable after a couple of hours. It has never needed a repair, and fills every need I currently have, including heavy mountain driving and coping with high gas prices. The only two down-sides I can think of are: the body seems to dent easily and it loses some power when the AC is on. Overall, its a great vehicle for the price and practical as well as comfortable and nicely designed.

  • Sloppy - 2001 Kia Sephia
    By -

    Ok, I know its not a Honda, but when I had to borrow my friends Integra, and got back in my Kia, all I could think was "sloppy." The shifter, the brakes, you name it, sloppy. It has never failed me, even with 163k miles. I still love the sag-proof roofliner. Some people have problems with the dash buckling, I havent seen it yet. Oh, and I was wrong in my other review about the Mazda engine/Getrag designed tranny, that was 98 and previous Sephias. I certainly would not recommend this car to a friend just because its slow AND gets bad mileage. I average 23mpg city/hwy. Highway only is 33mpg. Also, this car will scare you if you go over 80mph. It acts like its in a hurricane.

  • 2001 Kia Sephia - 2001 Kia Sephia
    By -

    I love this car. I originally bought a 1998 m type sephia and it was crap, always in the shop. But because I couldnt afford anything else, I decided to give Kia a second try. I bought an 01 Sephia LS with 10 miles and still drive it today with over 93K miles! This car has never let me stranded and always starts in the morning. I plan to keep this car forever! Im really happy to drive it everday!

  • Great Value - 2001 Kia Sephia
    By -

    My father purchased the vehicle new, then gave it me Jan. of 05. Hes never had any major problems with it and neither have I. In fact, with 157k miles on it, the original clutch holds strong, and the vehicle runs like a champ. For some strange reason, the windows will ALWAYS be foggy / dewy in the mornings even when other cars arent. It has seen 3 rather expensive starters. There is no aftermarket (generic) for most parts so expect to go to the dealer for everything. The sheetmetal is thin and easily dented but that gives it the performance. Mazda Protege engine, Getrag designed tranny, not a bad setup. Dont buy a new Kia unless you plan to drive it forever, they are worthless for resale.

  • 2001 Kia Sephia - Its been a headache.. - 2001 Kia Sephia
    By -

    I would love to give the reader a thumbs up for this car. But I cant. Had to replace: tranny at 100k mi. $1000, serp belt (always squeaky!), spark plugs; wires, alternator $260, both headlights, all manner of front end work probably amounting to $1200. Sheet metal is easy to dent and scratch. Have to slam trunk to get it to latch. Parking brake needs replaced. Drivers-side strut&spring needs replaced. Wheel bearing going bad quick-like. Doors FREEZE open in winter (Michigan). This is so annoying. You cant even imagine until you experience having to use a bungee. Driver door lock stuck in lock position. Had to take off door panel to fix. Other than all this, it is a fabulous car.

  • this car sucks - 2001 Kia Sephia
    By -

    Ive had problems with the car starting at 40,000 it wouldnt run right, kept loseing power, like when your learning to drive a 5 speed the car jerks.every two weeks it was in the shop they fix it but it kept breaking,they said the codes kept blowing out.But kia motors stood behind it everytime iam still trying to fix it, tge paint is starting to peel off by the trunk of the car.

  • Just got it - 2001 Kia Sephia
    By -

    I just got my kia a few days ago, and i just love it its a cute little car and im falling more in love with it everyday. I about to dress it up with some tint and u aint gone be able to tell me nothing!!!! lol

  • I like it. - 2001 Kia Sephia
    By -

    I bought this car for 500 dollars and thought it would just be my A to B car, but it has actually taken me further! Very reliable, A/C and heat works, but it does make the driving slow down when turned on. Not sure why but it isnt that big of a deal. Overall good car. Only thing needed changed was spark plugs.

  • best value out there - 2001 Kia Sephia
    By -

    best bang for the buck. I got my car for $ 6995...cant be beat on price..change the oil every 4k and you will have reliable transportation for 100K. Put the money you save in the bank and watch the $ grow....

Kia Sephia Reviews By Year:
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