Used 2001 Kia Spectra Consumer Reviews
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We have a limited number of reviews for the 2001 Spectra, so we've included reviews for other years of the Spectra since its last redesign.
2001 Spectra GS
Ricky, 02/28/2008
2001 Kia Spectra GS 4dr Hatchback (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
Other than normal wear parts like brake pads, I've had problems with the motor mounts (4 of them) and the upper power steering hose. It has good fuel economy, about 22 mpg city and very good handling, especially when you upgrade the wheels to 15" and sport tires.
2001 Kia Spectra GSX
RollieB., 04/24/2018
2001 Kia Spectra GSX 4dr Hatchback (1.8L 4cyl 4A)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
We've owned ours for 17 years now. It's a little beat up. Wish it had a little more drivera leg room.Upholstery apart at the seams, dash buckled from the heat. Hit a deer 15 years ago. That being said, maintenance is minimal. I've changed the up and downstream. O2 sensors and the timing belt. This little toad keeps on running. I just hit 220,000 miles and I still get 30-32 mpg on the highway. We bought another kia, a Soul this time. Impressed beyong measure with that car. Took a trip recently in the soul. 2955 miles round trip. Total cost for fuel: $197.00. My next purchase is a kia Sedona. I love my kia spectra. Still has plenty zip. Makes me feel again
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
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See all 0 listingsBest car I've ever owned
stevecobb12550, 06/06/2011
2001 Kia Spectra GS 4dr Hatchback (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
4 of 5 people found this review helpful
I bought the Kia used at 18,000 miles, and then drove it for almost 150,000 without a problem. Gas mileage was about 33 mpg highway, and it was rock solid. Sure, the sheet metal is so thin that you could dent the car just by breathing on it, and the rear defroster was useless, but the car was a real trooper. Hatchback was very useful, too, I could load all kinds of things in there. The only mistake I made was not changing the timing belt, and it broke at 145k miles, ruining the engine. At 145k miles, the CV joints needed replacing, and so did the struts, but it was a great car.
Fun to Cruise
EB, 03/30/2008
2000 Kia Spectra GSX 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Fun to drive! You feel like a speed racer! Consider something new as it approaches the end of the warranty. Very spacious interior (long boards fit inside)! Great for traveling students. Needs more reliable parts inside and out; very flimsy. Dashboard comes unglued, interior trunk latch doesn't work well, sits rather low to the ground, bolts welding to axle in wheels, okay gas per mile, several blinds, paint is thin, handles great on curves...
Hercules Unchained
Mr. GSX, 04/27/2002
2001 Kia Spectra GSX 4dr Hatchback (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I bought this Spectra GSX in August of 2001, I received a strong rebate of $1500.00 cash back, along with a strong warranty, i.e., 100K or (10)yrs., this really eased my apprehension of purchasing a Korea Made Car. Now! The performance suits my liking, 125HP is sufficient for freeway driving. The 5sp manual works well for controlling the vehicle. The GSX Trim level gives an abundance of goodies to enjoy while you drive. Overall I have had very few problems, some shifter Buzz while in third gear, this was corrected with new parts after two visits to the Kia Dealer. After I drive another 50k in this car I will know if I have received my monies worth. I do enjoy this car.
second car
jacky, 04/12/2002
2000 Kia Spectra GS 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have driven this car for a year now and have no complaints Its a good second car for work or just traveling around town I would not recommend this car for long trips.The comfort level is average but a bit tiresome after driving for 3-4 hours but I would say a very reliable car.
fun stuff
byron, 04/16/2002
2000 Kia Spectra GSX 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Wow, what a thrill! You get some good stuff in small package!! I like that there is room for stuff by folding down the back. The sound system is pretty good. It's almost set as a low-rider. I'll keep it.
Still runnin' after 8 years
ASHBURN VA, 10/15/2008
2000 Kia Spectra GS 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I had been considering purchasing a '96 Camry used car but happened to see this Kia on the way to buy the Camry. The winning point was that the Kia was less than the used Camry and had an great warranty. Eight years out I have had no major problems with the car. The cv boots for left and right wheels had to be replaced in Aug '08 but it was covered under the warranty. It's a great commuter car. I have only taken it on long distance trips three times. Seats are very uncomfortable. All things considered it's a good little car. Had I purchased the Camry I would have over 125k miles on it.
SURPRISINGLY GOOD
alfisti1, 05/12/2002
2000 Kia Spectra GS 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
The Spectra GS is a terrific economy car that offers a lot for the money. It is fun to drive and has real sporty styling. The paint quality of the Jade Green is outstanding. I like the spacious cargo area under the hatchback, and the excellent reliability of the car. It has also given me 34-36 mpg on long trips. Overall the car has exceeded my expectations.
Great Buy
Avian, 06/05/2002
2000 Kia Spectra GS 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have had this auto for almost two years now and have no complaints. I have driven it from Florida to Canada, and have been on numerous long trips and it has exceeded my expectations for a auto at this price.
long term info
ripleymanor, 10/18/2009
2000 Kia Spectra GSX 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
bought new 2000. never had warranty repair. only recommended servicing. 32 m.p.g. a blast to drive. still looks like new. bought Sportage in 2001 same reliability. best you can get for the money.
Recently Purchased
Zebulund, 08/06/2002
2000 Kia Spectra GS 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I recently purchased a Kia Spectra 2000 yr. model, and so far I'm impressed with the car for the price. Not too many people could tell me about them, but so far everything I've found on the Internet is far from negative. I think that Kia will continue to catch on in the States. It's affordable and a basic little car, but it's been great for the gas mileage. I'm going to college, and I drive back and forth. It's perfect for what I needed.
gsx
gsxpress, 05/05/2002
2000 Kia Spectra GSX 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I am extremely pleased with my KIA Spectra, The car performes well and is a nice sports car with only minor adjustments. the car has nice styling and many people do not relize it is a 4 door when they first see it. This car gives the performance of a two door with the practicality of a 4 door.
basic transportation
trotter, 12/11/2002
2000 Kia Spectra GS 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
not a bad car as some magazines rate it.good basic transportation very reliable so far 40,000 miles as on car has not had any problems at all,ride is somewhat noisy comfort level is fair a good second car for back to back. somewhatunderpowered but not unbearable.
Spectra not a favorite
Rootzy, 08/21/2003
2000 Kia Spectra GSX 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This car had multiple problems right after buying it brand new. I sent it to the shop three times for exhaust problems. It is cheaply made and the interior is drying and cracking. All the air conditioning vents broke and fell out about a year ago.
THE choice in affordable 4-dr Hatchbacks
S. U. Potter, 09/07/2003
2000 Kia Spectra GS 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I had been looking at used '94-98 VW Golfs for a Hatchback before I realized Kia started making one in 2000. Lacking refinement compared to a Honda or Toyota, but has an excellent 4-Door Hatchback layout, and for the price, it's good enough.
Don't Buy any Kia
tattoohank, 10/10/2003
2000 Kia Spectra GSX 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
As soon as I drove it off the lot, my troubles began. I have returned this car 8 times for repair. Mainly because of cheap materials. I still have to take it back for 3 more repairs. Most recently the dashboard came unglued, sounds like there is a screw rattling around in the steering wheel, and the paint is peeling. My nightmare continues. I only get 22 MPG. Do yourself a favor and don't buy one.
Don't buy a Kia
Hank, 06/06/2006
2000 Kia Spectra GSX 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Buying this Kia was the worst mistake I ever made in buying a car. The problems started right from the beginning. The inside trunk release has never worked from the start. After several attempts it was never fixed. From there things were down hill; outside car parts like the weather seal around the back window melted and shrunk. The inside dashboard is coming unglued and the front of the dashboard is popping out. The seats are coming unsewn, the so called leather is not leather - it is wearing out. This list goes on and on.
Kia Spectra
FHarr, 03/31/2004
2000 Kia Spectra GSX 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Overall I have found this to be a good car. Bought in 2000 and 44,000 miles later no issues still looks brand new. I always get compliments on the sporty look that is has. Great car for the family just starting. Great warranty!
Great First Car
JJFade, 04/17/2004
2000 Kia Spectra GSX 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Was not sure about Kia when I first bought the car but 4 years later I am still satisfied. No major problems yet.
Great Buy!
kerri12377, 06/19/2004
2000 Kia Spectra GSX 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
After 4 years of owning my purple Kia, I still love it! The warranty can't be beat! It's cheap to maintain. Being a hatchback makes it roommy inside. Oh, and the trunk release works since they've gotten a fix for it! It's reliable, convenient, and safe. Even nice for a Mommy with 2 small boys!
PLEASANT SURPRISE
AZTEC ROAD, 06/19/2005
2000 Kia Spectra GS 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
When I purchased this car I was in the market for a 96 Camry but just happened to come across Kia. This is car that I would normally not buy. But because it was cheaper than a used Camry I purchased it with the intentions of keeping for a year or two. Now almost 5 years later it's a "keeper". Love the warranty and will be driving it for another 5 years. I purchased a 2006 Sonata today and gave a passing thought to trading in the "Green Machine" but decided not to. The only draw backs with the Spectra are it's soft seats, lousy on long drives and lousy gas mileage for such a small car. Anyone looking for a car for a teenage-this is it! Also, a grea commuter car.
it's good
duckydo1, 03/17/2002
2000 Kia Spectra GS 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Has style and good looks for this class of auto. The hatchback is marvelous in loading and carrying bigger items. It is comfortable. I think the gas mileage could be better for this small of car, but it is not bad. It is very roomy. I like this auto very much. They did have to replace the transmission at about 14,000 miles. All paid for, of course.
kia good start out car
drew, 03/24/2002
2000 Kia Spectra GSX 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This vehicle looks like fun but after trying it out as a second car it left a lot to be desired. It would be great for someone starting out but for me I bought it on a whim while moving and it has served its purpose but Move on after the warranty is gone. The resale value doesn't hold. If you like to be low on the road, this is for you!!
18 years old
Alle, 09/17/2018
2000 Kia Spectra GSX 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This car is 18 years old I've only had it for a few months and after replacing spark plugs and coils runs great! Only problem is the air doesn't work. It's very comfortable I put my seat back and just fall asleep. Only had issues with the engine and tires but after fixing works great! Definitely a car built to last!
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- Reliability
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Kia, Kia, Kia
Amberismyenergy, 08/14/2008
2001 Kia Spectra GS 4dr Hatchback (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have had it time in and time out with this car. I have had to replace the complete make up of the rear brakes, the battery, the rear break lights several times (not because i leave lights on) compressor, starter, plugs, the right axle. Yes when i go up a hill i have to turn air conditioner off. haha Very loud when I'm trying to go fast, people think I'm angry, when I'm in a hurry. The dash board has completed folded because of the sun! WONDERFUL!!
242,500 Still going strong!!!!!
Terry, 10/14/2009
2001 Kia Spectra GS 4dr Hatchback (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I guess This says it all.
Would buy again
jillswill, 12/29/2002
2001 Kia Spectra GS 4dr Hatchback (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Its not a quite ride. Drags up hills, helps to shut off the air condition system. We bought it for the hatch-back and would to run to college. I would buy another one. Its a great buy for the price.
Point A to Point B
Scott9674, 02/05/2004
2001 Kia Spectra GSX 4dr Hatchback (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
From the outside you think wow, what a sporty ride? NOT The 125hp 5speed manual is very disappointing. I have drove automatics with smaller engines that are peppier. Going up a hill with the A/C on..forget about it. I realized I wasn't getting a "sports" car but come on Kia the gas mileage isn't terrific and the car weighs a little more than a cow here in IA and this is the best you can do? The interior is decent and clean. If you are over 6 ft be warned. After 40k miles no major happenings.Great car for a college student who just needs A to B trans. That is about all you should expect because that is all you'll get.
46000 and going strong
Bob Bell, 05/07/2004
2001 Kia Spectra GSX 4dr Hatchback (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I've had this car for over three years. The more I drive it the better it gets. It is the best highway car I have ever had and with Dunlop SA-2 tires it handles like a sports car. It can cruize on the interstate with the best of them and still get great gass mileage.
I hate my Kia
ojena, 07/11/2004
2001 Kia Spectra GS 4dr Hatchback (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have had many problems with the engine begining with the loud noises it makes & a/c and radio malfunctions. The plastic pieces of the vehicle are always breaking off such as those that recline the seat,open the trunk and gas,and a/c vents.Ancira, the dealership where I purchased my Kia, is not very efficient when it comes to fixing it. So the warranty Kia always raves about really means nothing to me.Within the first year of owning my new Kia Spectra, the tires and brakes had to be replaced, and since they are considered maintanence parts, they were not covered by the warranty. This car has been a headache from day one.
Worth every penny
ayoder, 05/01/2008
2001 Kia Spectra GSX 4dr Hatchback (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought mine new in 2001 and I've put a little over 70,000 miles on it. It's paid off and now I'm really getting my money out of it. It's still running great and drives as good as 2 other new cars I've recently test driven. I have done all the recommended maintenance and it's still running like a top. I had only minor warranty repairs done and have no complaints. I've been looking for a used higher end KIA like the optima to purchase but I think everyone knows how great these cars are they aren't trading them in so there are none available in my area. Can you say watch out Honda someones coming up quickly behind you and their price is better?
KIA 2000
BOB, 03/25/2010
2000 Kia Spectra GS 4dr Sedan
0 of 1 people found this review helpful
I have gotten this Kia new. It was a good car. Had some prob. But Kia fixed I have taken to a Harold Chev. Where they were only Kia mech. I gave the car to my Kia . A few later started to have prob. When about 70,000 miles car started to sound bad. Kia dealers tried to fix it every time but it always comes back like Kia just gave up. My other daughter has a Kia. 2000 hers is after 7 years she had this car. It is have fallen a part. Kia has had this in shop. Many times. Just runs bad/now they say has a bad cylinder/I have a Kia Sedona new bought 2003 have warranty for ne to fix. Have no major prob. Kia been good to me. When I told daughter how good Kia is they will never buy one. Me ether.
really reliable
supervixon, 03/26/2007
2000 Kia Spectra GS 4dr Sedan
0 of 1 people found this review helpful
I had this car for 6 years now, it has 100,000 miles on it. I drive 40 miles a day to work. Not one thing has gone wrong with it, I mean nothing. The only time it's in the garage is for maintenance. I can't complain of anything mechanical. What a great price - had it paid off in two years. Great gas mileage too.