The Spectra was affordable, cheap-to-run and fairly loveable in a number of regards, though crash-test scores were notably less than perfect. If you’re big on crash-scores and occupant safety ratings, you may want to look elsewhere.
Strangely, side and curtain airbags were only available when the Spectra launched in 2005—after which point they were removed from both the standard and optional equipment list.
Models after 2005 seem most advisable for purchase. A tougher new four-speed automatic transmission was fitted from 2006 onwards, and Kia added more standard features that year as well. You’ll probably be able to find a nice bit of the factory warranty remaining, too.
Reliability looks decent, with no enormous, glaring or frequent problems reported in the powertrain department. Note the quality of gearshifts during moderate and full-throttle acceleration with the automatic transmission, and have the fluid changed preemptively if you’re not sure of the vehicle’s service history. Same goes for engine oil, coolant and filters-- just to be on the safe side.
Rough shifting with the automatic transmission, particularly between second and third gear, could be caused by a computer problem. Additionally, a check-engine light paired with poor performance could be the result of a bad oxygen sensor. Either of these problems should be taken up with the vehicle’s seller, though they’re relatively minor to fix.
Note the condition of the Spectra’s paint too, as some owners report premature peeling, chipping and aging. Inspect the condition of all four tires, and test the feel of the brakes on a test-drive, too. Tires should have plenty of tread and be worn evenly across, and brakes should stop the car firmly and without pulsation, pulling or questionable noises. Ask a mechanic if in doubt.
The Spectra’s recall history was fairly minor, dealing with a potentially defective set of steering tie-rods as well as a problem with the airbag Occupant Classification Sensor (OCS) in some models. Check with a Kia dealership to see if either of these recalls affect the vehicle you’re looking at.
Given low resale values, it shouldn’t be hard to find a nicely equipped Spectra that’s right in your price range. There are more refined contenders in the used market, as well as models with a more thoroughly proven safety record. Still, given Spectra’s relatively low-costs and the high-enjoyability reported by owners, it looks to be a very decent used buy.
photo:Kia
Strangely, side and curtain airbags were only available when the Spectra launched in 2005—after which point they were removed from both the standard and optional equipment list.
Models after 2005 seem most advisable for purchase. A tougher new four-speed automatic transmission was fitted from 2006 onwards, and Kia added more standard features that year as well. You’ll probably be able to find a nice bit of the factory warranty remaining, too.
Reliability looks decent, with no enormous, glaring or frequent problems reported in the powertrain department. Note the quality of gearshifts during moderate and full-throttle acceleration with the automatic transmission, and have the fluid changed preemptively if you’re not sure of the vehicle’s service history. Same goes for engine oil, coolant and filters-- just to be on the safe side.
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| Reliability looks decent, with no enormous, glaring or frequent problems reported in the powertrain department. |
Rough shifting with the automatic transmission, particularly between second and third gear, could be caused by a computer problem. Additionally, a check-engine light paired with poor performance could be the result of a bad oxygen sensor. Either of these problems should be taken up with the vehicle’s seller, though they’re relatively minor to fix.
Note the condition of the Spectra’s paint too, as some owners report premature peeling, chipping and aging. Inspect the condition of all four tires, and test the feel of the brakes on a test-drive, too. Tires should have plenty of tread and be worn evenly across, and brakes should stop the car firmly and without pulsation, pulling or questionable noises. Ask a mechanic if in doubt.
The Spectra’s recall history was fairly minor, dealing with a potentially defective set of steering tie-rods as well as a problem with the airbag Occupant Classification Sensor (OCS) in some models. Check with a Kia dealership to see if either of these recalls affect the vehicle you’re looking at.
Given low resale values, it shouldn’t be hard to find a nicely equipped Spectra that’s right in your price range. There are more refined contenders in the used market, as well as models with a more thoroughly proven safety record. Still, given Spectra’s relatively low-costs and the high-enjoyability reported by owners, it looks to be a very decent used buy.
photo:Kia
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