2008 Kia Spectra: Recalls, Problems & MPG
Here are the deets on the 2008 Kia Spectra: 0 recalls, 121 owner complaints and up to 27 mpg combined.
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. 3 mention a fire, 21 injuries and 1 deaths were reported.
What owners describe
- Airbags (61): the most common themes are fails to deploy (18), warning light on (18).
- Speed control / throttle (15): the most common themes are stalls / loses power (3), warning light on (3), sudden acceleration (2).
- Electrical (14): the most common themes are electrical failure (4), fire / smoke (4), door / lock issues (4).
- Engine (10): the most common themes are stalls / loses power (4), warning light on (2).
The 2008 Kia Spectra has 121 owner complaints, ranking #2 of 10 Spectra model years for complaints (about average; the typical year has 91). Complaints peaked in 2015 (23 filed that year). The typical problem showed up when the car was about 6 years old, at a median of 74,000 miles. Neighboring years: 2007 (152 complaints, 1 recalls), 2009 (114 complaints, 0 recalls).
Engines & fuel economy (EPA)
| Engine | Transmission | Drive | City | Hwy | Comb. | Fuel |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2.0 L 4-cyl | Automatic 4-spd | Front-Wheel Drive | 24 | 32 | 27 | Regular |
| 2.0 L 4-cyl | Manual 5-spd | Front-Wheel Drive | 23 | 30 | 26 | 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 2008 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.
From $19.99/mo · $39.99/yrOEM procedures, specs and recall/TSB info, the same source many shops use.
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FAQ
Does the 2008 Kia Spectra have any recalls?
NHTSA doesn't list any vehicle recalls for the 2008 Kia Spectra. Check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls to be sure.
What are the most common 2008 Kia Spectra problems?
Owners have filed 121 complaints with NHTSA. The most-reported areas are airbags (61), speed control / throttle (15), electrical (14).
What gas mileage does the 2008 Kia Spectra get?
EPA ratings run up to 27 mpg combined (2.0 L, Automatic 4-spd), across 2 engine and transmission combos.
Where can I get a 2008 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.