TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: EXCESSIVE OIL CONSUMPTION NU/GAMMA/THETA/KAPPA ENGINES - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. New/revised sections of this bulletin are indicated by a black bar in the margin area. This bulletin provides information on diagnosing and/or repairing some 2011-2024MY vehicles (refer to the table on pages 9 and 10 for applicable models and engine), which may exhibit a symptom of excessive oil consumption.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗2013 Kia Sportage engine problems
severe Owners of the 2013 Kia Sportage have filed 278 NHTSA complaints about the engine, typically surfacing around 106,000 miles at roughly $3,100 to repair (U.S. federal records, as of July 2026). Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation. See engine across all vehicles →
Failure mileage
Complaints
278
Recalls
0
Avg fix
$3,100
| Model year | engine complaints |
|---|---|
| 2011 Sportage | 58 |
| 2012 Sportage | 296 |
| 2013 Sportage (this page) | 278 |
| 2014 Sportage | 58 |
| 2015 Sportage | 58 |
| 2016 Sportage | 41 |
| 2017 Sportage | 153 |
1crash
14fires
1injury
When does it fail?
Of the 278 engine complaints filed for the 2013 Kia Sportage, here's the actual mileage breakdown — failures cluster heaviest at 125,000-150,000 mi.
0-25k
25-50k
50-75k
75-100k
100-125k
125-150k
150k+
Each bar shows the share of total complaints filed at that mileage range. Peak failure window highlighted. Some owners report problems earlier; some make it well past 150,000 miles symptom-free. Maintenance habits and driving conditions shift the curve as much as mileage alone.
What stands out
Engine accounts for 73% of every owner complaint on file for this vehicle — the dominant problem area across 7 categories tracked.
Owners have filed 278 engine complaints with NHTSA against this vehicle, but no formal recall covers the issue — the federal record reflects what manufacturers have admitted, not everything owners are reporting.
Is there a fix? Manufacturer service bulletins
The manufacturer has issued service bulletins covering engine on this vehicle — documented repair instructions, service campaigns, or warranty extensions sent to dealers. A TSB isn't a recall (it's not a free safety remedy), but it's the manufacturer acknowledging the issue and how to fix it.
TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: EXCESSIVE OIL CONSUMPTION NU/GAMMA/THETA/KAPPA ENGINES - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. New/revised sections of this bulletin are indicated by a black bar in the margin area. This bulletin provides information on diagnosing and/or repairing some 2011-2024MY vehicles (refer to the tables on pages 8-9 for applicable models and engine), which may exhibit a symptom of excessive oil consumption.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: PRODUCT IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN: SUBSEQUENT REPAIR ACTION: ENGINE REPLACEMENT INSTRUCTIONS FOR DTC P1326 (PI2103Y/Z) - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. New/revised sections of this bulletin are indicated by a black bar in the margin area. This bulletin provides information related to the Technical Service Bulletin previously published in (PI2103) titled “Knock Sensor Detection System - ECU Logic Improvement” for certain 2011-2013MY Sportage (SL)vehicles equipped with Theta 2.4L MPI engine, produced from May 6, 2010 through October 7, 2013. Specifically, this bulletin provides instructions on which procedures to follow if, after instal
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: PRODUCT IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN: ENGINE REPLACEMENT INSTRUCTIONS FOR DTC P1326 (PI1803Y/Z) - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. New/revised sections of this bulletin are indicated by a black bar in the margin area. This bulletin provides information related to the Technical Service Bulletin previously published PI1803 titled "Knock Sensor Detection System - ECU Logic Improvement" equipped w/THETA II engine. Specifically, this bulletin provides instructions on which procedures to follow if, after installation of the KSDS, any one of the subject vehicles below returns to the dealer with Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) P1326 (Knock Signal Ra
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗PRODUCT IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN: OWNER RENOTIFICATION (PI2103) - This document is the owner renotification advising that Kia is conducting a Product Improvement Campaign to perform a software update on 2011-2013 MY Kia Sportage vehicles equipped with 2.4-liter engines to protect the engine from excessive connecting rod bearing damage. The update will be done free of charge and will only involve the addition of newly developed computer software for the Engine Control Unit ("ECU").
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Source: NHTSA manufacturer communications. Bring the bulletin number to your dealer or shop.
The failure pattern owners describe
Owners describe catastrophic engine failure—typically bearing seizure—happening abruptly during normal highway or city driving, with loud knocking and sudden loss of power. The engine stalls mid-traffic with no warning lights, forcing owners to coast to the shoulder on busy interstates and risking rear-end collisions. Tear-downs reveal worn connecting rod bearings, metal shavings in the oil pan, and in severe cases, rods punching holes through the block. Failures occur between 50,000 and 110,000 miles, often in vehicles that received regular oil changes.
Kia issued Recall 17V-224 for certain 2011–2013 Sportages with 2.0L and 2.4L GDI engines, offering engine replacement and lifetime short-block warranty. However, hundreds of owners with non-GDI engines (2.4L MPI) or VINs excluded from the recall list face identical bearing failures but receive no coverage. Owners provide maintenance records and complain Kia denies claims citing "excessive oil change intervals" (5,000–13,000 miles, often within spec), missing software updates, or non-original ownership. Diagnostic fees ($150–$534) are sometimes charged upfront; appeals to district managers are slow or unresponsive. Engine fires also occur, adding danger to the defect. Some owners cite engine unavailability (Theta models discontinued) and fear replacement engines carry the same flaw. The disparity in recall coverage—identical engines excluded for unknown reasons—leaves purchasers with sudden $5,000–$11,000 repair bills.
Same Kia Sportage engine reports on nearby years: 2011 · 2012 · 2014 · 2015 · 2016
Failure modes owners describe
Connecting Rod Bearing Failure / Engine Seizure
Connecting rod bearings wear prematurely, seize to the crankshaft, or fail catastrophically, causing sudden engine seizure with loud knocking noise. Metal debris from manufacturing—fine shavings left in oil passages during crankshaft machining—restricts oil flow to bearings, accelerating wear. Owners report no warning lights before failure, sudden complete loss of power while driving at highway speed, and engine stalling mid-traffic. Tear-downs reveal worn bearings, spun bearing caps, metal shavings in the oil pan, and in severe cases, connecting rods punching holes through the engine block.
When: Typically 50,000–110,000 miles; failures occur suddenly with no gradual symptoms preceding them.
Symptoms owners cite: Loud knocking or clacking noise from engine, especially under acceleration; Abrupt loss of power and acceleration response; Engine stall while driving, sometimes in traffic or on highway; Check engine light (often only after failure occurs, not before); Oil pressure warning light; Smoke from under hood; Excessive oil loss or oil dripping from engine block; Metal debris visible on ground beneath vehicle
Codes mentioned: P0300 (Random/Multiple Cylinder Misfire), P0303 (Cylinder 3 Misfire), P0014 (Intake Valve Timing Actuator Performance), P12103 (Knock Sensor Detection System)
Repairs/costs cited: Engine replacement required; used engines cost $3,000–$5,500; new/rebuilt engines $5,000–$11,000+; labor for teardown and replacement additional. Some owners found replacement engines at high mileage with same defect potential. Parts difficult to source as Theta engines discontinued. One owner paid $533.90 diagnostic fee alone; another paid $8,906.59 for full replacement at dealership.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Recall 17V-224 (SC147) issued for 2011–2013 Kia Sportage (and other models) with 2.0L and 2.4L GDI engines, addressing metal debris in oil passages and uneven crankshaft surface roughness. KSDS (Knock Sensor Detection System) software update (Recall 17V224000 / SC147) offers knock detection. Class action settlement provides lifetime warranty on short-block repairs for recalled VINs and free knock-sensor software installation. However, many 2.4L MPI/non-GDI engines excluded from recall despite identical failures; some 2013 Sportages with matching symptoms not included in recall VIN lists. Kia denies coverage citing 'excessive mileage between oil changes' (even when owner provides records), lack of KSDS update completion, non-original ownership, out-of-warranty status (52+ days or mileage), or engine type mismatch. Multiple owners report Kia denying claims twice, requiring appeal, or referencing only 'goodwill' (discretionary, often refused). Warranty coverage varies: original owner 10-year/100K miles; used-car buyer 5-year/60K miles. Some dealerships initially charge $150–$175 diagnostic fees, later waive or credit them.
Engine Overheating and Cooling System Malfunction
Engine runs hotter than normal, especially at idle or in stop-and-go traffic. Coolant levels drop and must be topped repeatedly despite no visible external leaks. Check engine light and overheating warning occur intermittently. One narrative describes coil failure (P0303 misfire) misdiagnosed; mechanic found cooling fan not engaging despite power reaching it. Another notes thermostat and ignition coil problems.
When: Weeks to months after purchase; one case reported 6 weeks of sitting idle, then recurrence.
Symptoms owners cite: Gauge reading 'hot' especially at stops or low-speed traffic; Coolant level low without visible external leak; Check engine light; Overheating while driving long distance; Engine misfire (rough idle)
Codes mentioned: P0303 (Cylinder 3 Misfire)
Repairs/costs cited: Coolant evacuation, recharge, and addition: $338.15. Oil leak suspected but not definitively identified. Coil, spark plugs, wires, thermostat replacement: ~$545. Cooling fan motor found inoperable despite receiving electrical power; repair cost not specified.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Dealership initially added coolant and recharged AC; issue recurred. MaxCare extended warranty refused to pick up vehicle; customer had to manage own logistics. Subsequent dealership visit noted oil leak but could not explain overheating. No recall mentioned in this narrative.
Engine Fire / Under-Hood Fire
Engine catches fire or ignites under the hood during normal driving or after failure, creating immediate safety hazard. Fires occur both during engine seizure events and separately. One case: engine fire while evacuating from hurricane with infant. Another: smoke and small fire when coasting home; owner extinguished with water. Another: flames and smoke at highway speed; fire department called. Association with metal debris, oil loss, bearing failure, and possible short-circuit or fuel system involvement.
When: Coincident with engine seizure or immediately upon failure; some cases report fire only after extended driving with mechanical issue.
Symptoms owners cite: Smoke under hood; Flames visible from engine compartment; Burning smell; Engine stall or loss of power preceding fire
Repairs/costs cited: Total loss in most cases. Fire department and police called. One owner extinguished with water bottles; another extinguished with soda. Towing and salvage costs implied; full repair cost not typically quoted for burned vehicles.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Kia recall 17V-224 and class action settlement acknowledge risk of engine fire. However, VINs not on recall list denied assistance. One owner told dealership refused to tow or fix at no charge despite recall eligibility claim. Another received no recall notification and discovered issue only after fire. Warranty denial common even when fire is the failure mode.
Warranty Denial and Coverage Disputes
Kia denies warranty claims under various pretexts: 'excessive mileage between oil changes' (5,000–13,000 miles, within some OEM specs); lack of KSDS software update before failure; non-original ownership (5-year/60K vs. 10-year/100K); timing of expiration (even 52 days past mileage limit); VIN not on recall list despite identical symptoms; engine type (MPI vs. GDI); or dealership service versus owner maintenance. Owners provide oil change receipts, maintenance logs, and cleanliness documentation; Kia still refuses, demanding teardown inspections (costing $170–$533) as condition of evaluation, then denying claim afterward. Some owners receive conflicting warranty information (told 60K then 100K). Appeals of denial go to district managers who do not review case details. 'Goodwill' assistance mentioned but rarely granted.
When: Discovered upon claim submission; denials occur months after purchase or failure event.
Symptoms owners cite: Claim rejection letters with minimal explanation; Demand for diagnostic fees before evaluation; Conflicting warranty terms communicated
Repairs/costs cited: Diagnostic fees: $150–$533.90 charged upfront, sometimes credited later, sometimes not. Legal reference to Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act (1975) by owners asserting manufacturer burden of proof for causation; Kia's denials not supported by evidence of sludge or oil starvation in many cases.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Recall 17V-224 and class action settlement provide lifetime warranty on short-block repairs IF vehicle is on recall list. For non-recalled VINs, Kia offers discretionary 'goodwill' assessment, often rejected. Owners contend Kia shifts burden of proof, violates warranty act, and misuses VIN exclusions. No systematic reimbursement program noted for out-of-pocket repairs. Kia Customer Assistance phone lines and online claim systems criticized for slow response and lack of transparency.
Check Engine Light Illumination (Malfunction Indicator Lamp)
Check engine light comes on, sometimes alone and sometimes alongside other warning lights (oil pressure, battery, engine warning). One owner received November 2023 recall safety notice, then saw check engine light December 2023 and was directed to dealership immediately; dealership initially quoted $175 diagnostic, later confirmed warranty; then denied coverage citing part not covered. Light may appear only after or during failure, not before.
When: Variable; sometimes days/weeks before catastrophic failure, sometimes concurrent with stall.
Symptoms owners cite: Check engine light illumination; No driveability issue at time of light appearance
Codes mentioned: P0300, P0303, P12103 (as above)
Repairs/costs cited: Diagnostic testing cost $150–$175 at dealership.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Recall safety letter 17V-224 states: if check engine light illuminates, take vehicle to dealership immediately. However, dealership response is to run diagnostics (charge customer), check VIN against recall list, and if not included, deny warranty coverage. Owners note this creates a trap: following recall instructions results in diagnostic bill and denial.
Synthesized from 278 NHTSA owner complaints — unverified consumer allegations, summarized for patterns. The verbatim filings appear below.
What owners are reporting 13 most recent
The engine has a loud knocking sound. I turned on my vehicle and when I pressed on the gas I heard a loud knocking sound. I have always been diligent about getting my regular oil changes and services for and have service records for it so thought this was odd. I took it to the Kia dealer and was advised it needed a new engine and would cost about $7200, a lot more than what the vehicle is worth.…
I have a Kia Sportage Ex 2013 and this motor vehicle has a fire and explotion in the road.
The contact owns a 2013 Kia Sportage. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle made an abnormally loud knocking sound. The contact stated that the vehicle previously had the brakes, four tires, fuel injectors, and spark plugs replaced; however, the failure recurred. Additionally, the vehicle experienced rough driving. The vehicle was taken to two independent…
Car engine started making a loud knocking / tapping noise, car shut off while driving down the road at 40 mph, I had to replace the battery, car started back up but is still knocking / tapping. No warning lights came up, I have 112,000 miles on it, I keep the maintenance up on it, I don't run it hard, I take car of it because I Love My car, I have NEVER had any issues before this. I did not…
We were driving down hwy 75 s the car was on cruse control , the engine began to rev up so I took the cruise control off , the car began to knock so I was making my way to the edge of the road when flames and smoke began coming from the rear of the car . Other drivers began to call 911 and reported my car was on fire. At this time I heard a load noise from the engine and the engine blew .I was…
On 4/18/2019 I was driving on a narrow 2-lane highway at 55 MPH when my vehicle suddenly lost power and would not restart. I had the vehicle towed to a Kia dealership and I was told the engine had failed and needed to be replaced at a cost of $8,800. The engine had 83,000 miles on it.
Vehicle has 111,000 miles and main engine bearing going out. Car was in motion when it started making a bad sound. This is the exact problem that the Kia has had a massive recall on but for some reason my vehicle based on the VIN is not included. I have contacted Kia consumer affairs and after more than a week have been told that there is no action that they will take. I was told that at my…
On December 13, 2023, at 7:30am I noticed that the check engine light was on in my vehicle. I recently received an Important Safety Recall letter notice on November 14, 2023, regarding a defect with the safety of kia motor vehicles that were manufactured between 2011-2013, in which the defect can result in an engine compartment fire. I currently have a 2013 Kia Sportage so once I saw the check…
Tl* the contact owns a 2013 Kia sportage. While driving 65 MPH on the freeway, the engine seized without warning. The contact managed to veer to the shoulder of the road and turned the vehicle off. The vehicle failed to resume normal operation. The insurance company towed the vehicle to the contact's residence where it was then towed to bob moore Kia northwest (7340 northwest expy, oklahoma city,…
September of this year my daughter was driving 70mph on I-80 with 3 friends and 2 dogs when the engine made loud popping noises and quit, luckily for all she was in the right hand lane and immediately pulled over, if not she would have probably stopped in the middle of the interstate. We had the car towed to our mechanic who informed us that the engine had seized and suggested I call Kia and…
Had engine trouble with your 2013 Kia Sportage?
File a complaint with NHTSA → It's free, official, and how every report above got here — owner filings are the federal safety record this page is built on.
Common questions
How serious is the engine problem on the 2013 Kia Sportage?
It's a meaningful issue. 278 complaints have been filed and the failure mode causes operational problems for owners. Repairs average $3,100.
At what mileage does the engine typically fail?
Across the 212 complaints that reported odometer mileage, most engine failures cluster between 85,000 and 127,000 miles, with the median around 106,000. A quarter of owners report trouble before 85,000; a quarter make it past 127,000. Maintenance history matters more than the odometer alone — this is the reported failure window, not a guarantee.
What does it cost to fix?
Independent shops typically charge around $3,100 for engine repairs on this vehicle. Dealer pricing tends to run 20-40% higher. The exact figure depends on the specific failure mode, parts availability, and your local labor rates. If you're outside factory warranty, an extended service contract often covers this category.
Are there any recalls related to engine?
No active recalls currently cover engine issues on this vehicle. The complaints filed represent owner-reported failures that haven't risen to the level of a manufacturer-issued recall — but they're still worth knowing about before you buy or budget for repairs.
Related
Complaint and recall data sourced from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
public records database. Verify the raw federal record at
nhtsa.gov/vehicle/2013/Kia/Sportage.
Severity ratings are derived from reported crashes, fires, injuries, and fatalities. Repair cost estimates are
independent-shop national averages and may differ in your area. Some links on this page are affiliate links.