There are no safety recalls for the 2003 Kia Spectra, but owners have filed 90 complaints with NHTSA.
2003 Kia Spectra problems reported by owners
| Problem area | Reports | |
|---|
| Power Train | 16 | |
| Engine and Engine Cooling | 14 | |
| Service Brakes, Hydraulic | 14 | |
| Air Bags | 11 | |
| Structure | 11 | |
| Visibility | 10 | |
| Seat Belts | 9 | |
| Electrical System | 9 | |
| Exterior Lighting | 7 | |
| Steering | 4 | |
| Service Brakes | 4 | |
| Seats | 3 | |
Most reported parts
- Power Train › Automatic Transmission — 12
- Air Bags › Frontal — 6
- Visibility › Windshield Wiper/Washer › Motor — 4
- Engine and Engine Cooling › Engine — 3
- Wheels › Hub — 2
- Seat Belts › Front — 2
- Service Brakes, Hydraulic › Foundation Components › Differential Proportional Valve — 2
- Exterior Lighting › Headlights — 2
Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 55,500 miles (median of owner reports).
Problems that are not covered by a recall are paid repairs; labor rates follow local mechanic pay — see what auto mechanics earn in each state.
Recent 2003 Kia Spectra complaints
Owner reports filed with NHTSA, as written (personal details removed). Complaints are not verified by NHTSA.
Fuel/Propulsion System · reported Feb 18, 2019
My car is leaking gas on the passenger side underneath the car I also have gas fumes in my car too, I AM losing a lot of gas in my car.I have strangers pointing out that my car is leaking gas and the smell of gas when I park my car in a public parking lot when I do shopping, I fear that my car will go up in flames and I have my children ride in the car and complain about the fumes of gas I see that there was the same recalls on 2004 kia spectra. Mine is is a 2003 which I having the exact problems with a gas leak . I need this to be on a recall list to get repair asap , for the safety of me and…
Structure · reported Sep 7, 2017
I bought a car from a used dealer and I was informed that it had no frame damage but I took it to two garages and both garages informed me that there was frame damage front and back and the one garage I took it to said that they were aware of the frame damage
Service Brakes · at 80,000 miles · reported Nov 29, 2016
I noticed brake fluid underneath my car one day and checked my level to find that there was basically no brake fluid in the reservoir. Turns out it's the brake proportioning valve. After looking online it seems like this is a trend and has caused accidents previously. The mechanic was surprised that this was indeed the problem after calling and then getting the car repaired. The leak came on suddenly and was fairly sever requiring that I add brake fluid after every short drive. If I hadn't noticed this problem I likely would have ended up rear-ending someone or worse. It also seems to be…
Air Bags · at 100,234 miles · reported Sep 23, 2015
The contact owns a 2003 kia spectra. The contact stated that the air bag warning indicator illuminated. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 100,234. The VIN was not available.
Power Train · at 112,000 miles · reported Sep 19, 2014
The contact owns a 2003 kia spectra. The contact stated that the vehicle failed to shift into gear. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic for diagnostic testing. The technician stated that the transmission needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired and the manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 112,000.
Frequently asked questions
Does the 2003 Kia Spectra have any recalls?
No. NHTSA has no safety recalls for the 2003 Kia Spectra as of this update. Check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls for the latest status.
What is the most common problem with the 2003 Kia Spectra?
Owners report power train problems most often (16 reports), followed by engine and engine cooling (14). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 55,500 miles.
Are Kia recall repairs free?
Yes. Safety recall repairs are free at authorized Kia dealers, whether you are the first owner or bought the car used.