2002 Kia Spectra: Recalls, Problems & MPG
Here are the deets on the 2002 Kia Spectra: 0 recalls, 92 owner complaints and up to 24 mpg combined.
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Recalls
No recalls on file for this model year. Still worth a VIN check.
Most-reported problems
Owner complaints filed with NHTSA, by component. One complaint can list several components. 2 mention a fire, 19 injuries and 1 deaths were reported.
What owners describe
- Airbags (22): the most common themes are fails to deploy (17).
- Transmission & drivetrain (12): the most common themes are hard / delayed shifting (5), warning light on (5), stalls / loses power (3).
- Electrical (9): the most common themes are stalls / loses power (3), electrical failure (2).
- Brakes (hydraulic) (9): the most common themes are brake failure / soft pedal (2).
The 2002 Kia Spectra has 92 owner complaints, ranking #6 of 10 Spectra model years for complaints (about average; the typical year has 91). Complaints peaked in 2002 (22 filed that year). The typical problem showed up when the car was about 2 years old, at a median of 41,000 miles. Neighboring years: 2001 (40 complaints, 0 recalls), 2003 (90 complaints, 0 recalls).
Engines & fuel economy (EPA)
| Engine | Transmission | Drive | City | Hwy | Comb. | Fuel |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1.8 L 4-cyl | Manual 5-spd | Front-Wheel Drive | 21 | 29 | 24 | Regular |
| 1.8 L 4-cyl | Automatic 4-spd | Front-Wheel Drive | 19 | 27 | 22 | Regular |
Want the full repair deets? Get the factory manual.
Recall and complaint data tells you what goes wrong. A service manual tells you how to fix it: torque specs, wiring diagrams, fluid capacities and step-by-step procedures for the 2002 Kia Spectra.
Closest thing to the factory manual for most years. Pay once, keep it.
Most $25–$78, one-timePro-shop repair procedures, wiring diagrams and TSBs for your exact car.
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FAQ
Does the 2002 Kia Spectra have any recalls?
NHTSA doesn't list any vehicle recalls for the 2002 Kia Spectra. Check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls to be sure.
What are the most common 2002 Kia Spectra problems?
Owners have filed 92 complaints with NHTSA. The most-reported areas are airbags (22), transmission & drivetrain (12), electrical (9).
What gas mileage does the 2002 Kia Spectra get?
EPA ratings run up to 24 mpg combined (1.8 L, Manual 5-spd), across 2 engine and transmission combos.
Where can I get a 2002 Kia Spectra repair manual?
eManualOnline sells downloadable manuals, Mitchell 1 DIY and ALLDATAdiy sell online access to factory repair data, and Haynes sells printed guides and online access. Pick a download if you want to keep it, or a subscription for wiring diagrams and TSBs.