2018 Kia Sportage · symptom sheet
Check engine light or misfire
- 32owner reports
- 99,339median miles
- 0involved a crash
Newest report Aug 13, 2026 · checked Oct 2, 2026
114 of the 164 complaints on this car are about the engine. 32 of those describe misfire. Only engine failure is reported more often on this car.
Tick what matches of 32 reports
Misfire on other Sportage years
Report counts are for each model year on its own, so a newer car has had less time to collect them. Model years with too few reports of it for a sheet: 2014, 2015, 2016, 2020, 2023, 2026.
What this problem usually is
These reports start with the check engine light. Many describe the engine running rough or shaking at idle, a P0300-series code, or a catalytic converter code. A worrying number say the light was flashing. Owners often list ignition coils or spark plugs already replaced, and the light coming back afterward.
What got replaced
Owners who name the part that was replaced mention the sensor (3 reports).
Recalls and investigations
One recall on the engine covers the 2018 model year. A recall on the same system isn't always the same failure, so read the defect text.
The high pressure fuel pipe that connects to the fuel pump outlet may have been damaged, misaligned or improperly torqued during the engine replacement procedure, possibly causing a fuel leak.
All 3 recalls on the 2018 Kia Sportage, with the owner complaints on each recalled system
NHTSA investigations into the engine on the Sportage
Loss of motive power. Closed dec 12, 2023.
Engine fires. Closed feb 5, 2024, led to recall 23V-877.
Scope and timeliness. Closed dec 22, 2021, led to recall 17V-224.
Fan blade cracking/separation. Closed apr 16, 2007, led to recall 07V-161.
Fan blade cracking/separation. Closed jan 22, 2007.
Fuel tank leakage. Closed nov 30, 2007.
Fuel tank leakage. Closed may 9, 2006.
Engine stalling post-recall. Closed sep 2, 2003, led to recall 99V-325.
Incorrect battery jump-start. Closed jul 31, 2000, led to recall 00V-205.
Check engine light stays on. Closed feb 2, 2000, led to recall 99V-325.
None of these investigations covers the 2018 model year.
When it happens
The middle half of failures fell between 46,300 and 107,000 miles, from the 18 reports that gave a mileage.
Is this a known problem?
The manufacturer has sent NHTSA 2 service bulletins or notices for the 2018 Kia Sportage that deal with this problem. Newest first.
Federal rules make a manufacturer send NHTSA a copy of any notice about a defect that goes to more than one dealer or owner. Most of these are service bulletins, the repair instructions manufacturers send to dealers. NHTSA generally leaves safety recall bulletins out of this file, and recalls are listed separately.
PITSTOP DTC P0449 VENT VALVE/SOLENOID CIRCUIT & P2422 VENT VALVE STUCK CLOSED - If a foreign object is found anywhere from the filler neck to the main charcoal canister, such as a spider nest (A), the object will need to be removed with a pipe cleaner.
PITSTOP DTC P0449 VENT VALVE/SOLENOID CIRCUIT - When addressing a concern related to P0449 (Evaporative Emission System - Vent Valve / Solenoid Circuit) on 2017-2018MY Sportage (QL) model vehicles, and the Canister Closed Valve (CCV) and corresponding circuit were ...
What owners wrote
“At 113,000 my engine failed. It was determined that low compression occurred due to the first cylinder failing. Iâve been having excessive oil consumption since about 60k.”
Filed Feb 28, 2026
“Engine failed while driving on busy highway at high speeds. Engine suddenly stopped, forcing us to coast to a stop on a narrow shoulder. Safety was impacted by the risk of impact by oncoming vehicles. Check engine lamp illuminated shortly before failure, giving little warning of a problem. Upon inspection of the engine, engine oil could be seen sprayed out from the front of the engine under the intake manifold area.”
Filed Apr 17, 2023
“Driving check engine light came on, reduced power. I purchased a warranty through dealer I purchased vehicle from took it there they ran code and it was P1326 knock sensor detection program. Had to go to Kia dealer. Had it towed and waiting to hear.”
Filed Jan 25, 2023
“My car engine failed due to extreme oil consumption. It ran out of oil completely after 2K miles from my last synthetic oil change and damaged my 3rd cylinder. I have maintained the car perfectly and done all recommended repairs. My car only has 66K miles and already needs a new engine.”
Filed Jul 19, 2022 · 66,000 miles
Should you keep driving it?
This page can't tell you that. 0 of 32 reports involved a crash. Owners who file are the ones who had a bad experience, and nobody checks their reports. If the problem affects steering, braking, power or a fire risk, treat it as a safety fault and have it inspected before a long or high-speed drive.
File your own report with NHTSA. Complaint counts are how a problem gets an investigation. How reports land on this sheet.
Guide Which lights mean pull over now? Warning lights by color and urgency
Other problems on this car
- Engine failure, knocking or rod bearing 43 reports