Used 2002 Kia Spectra Consumer Reviews
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Gotta love it
TXKiaOwner, 09/01/2003
2002 Kia Spectra LS 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought this car 14 months ago and have had no trouble what so ever. I have about 20,000 miles on it and will probably need tires in another 10K or so. (I drive mostly all highway). Gas mileage is about 31-33mpg. (5spd)
2002 Kia Spectra
RIpper2131, 09/19/2003
2002 Kia Spectra 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Purchased in Jan 2001 solely as a commutter mobile...30000+ a year going from Baltimoire to Falls Church, VA all at 32+MPG for an automatic! Not the sportiest thing on the road but get me from point A to point B
2002 Kia Spectra for sale near you
Showing 1 of 1 listings
- FOR PARTS OR OFF ROAD ONLYMSRP: $990370 mi away
I am impressed
RubyRedMe, 09/27/2003
2002 Kia Spectra 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought my Spectra 5 months ago. I didn't expect much, considering the price I paid for it, but I am finding I really like it, and would seriously consider buying another Kia when the time comes. The inside is very comfortable, with thoughtfully arranged controls. My only complaint so far, is the paint job. My Kia seems to have a "bullseye" on it, as it has been "dinged" three major times in parking lots. Each time, I notice that the paint is flaking rather alarminly well beyond where the actual damage is! Also, the tires that come standard on it (Hankook) are really a joke. I've already replace them, and am much happier with the overall handling.
Horrible VEhicle
Kelley W., 10/17/2003
2002 Kia Spectra GS 4dr Hatchback (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have had nothing but trouble with this car. It was built cheaply. It shakes and rattles and every month I seem to have to pay for something to get fixed. Warranty is horrible. Wheels and brakes defective! I've had them fixed several times and they continue to cause me problems. It can only get worse.
Review_SS
S.S, 04/11/2005
2002 Kia Spectra LS 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Thhe performance of this vehicle is quite good. It has good handling and good acceleration. As a result the mileage for city driving is around 19 mpg. However the mileage it gives on the hwy is approximately 30 mpg which I think is not bad. The quality and reliability however is not comparable to a Honda Civic.
KIA
LANCEYOUNG, 11/15/2003
2002 Kia Spectra LS 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
WE WERE DRAWN IN TO THE DEALER BY THE LOW PRICED RIO, AND AFTER HEM AND HAWING AROUND WE TEST DROVE THE SPECTRA, AND THERE WAS NO QUESTION. THE VALUE WAS THERE
WILL NOT BUY ANOTHER
VICKIE STONE, 12/27/2003
2002 Kia Spectra GS 4dr Hatchback (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
WE GOT THIS 2002 KIA IN MAY 2002. IN FEB. 2003 PAROMOUNT KIA HAD TO PUT IN A NEW TRANSMISSION AND NOW IT IS DEC.2003 AND THE NEW ONE IS GIVING US TROUBLE. SO WE WILL NOT BUY ANOTHER KIA. WE SEE WHY THEY GIVE THE 10 YEAR/100,000 MILE WAR. . BECAUSE YOU NEED IT .
Great car for the $$$
Jake Dailey, 01/06/2004
2002 Kia Spectra 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I can't say anything bad about this car. I've owned it for 9 months and for basic reliable transportation, you can't go wrong. I wouldn't buy it new, since it depreciates so fast, but as a used car, it's not bad! It's fun to drive with the manual tranny, I took a 1st and a 2nd in the local autocrosses with only upgraded 17" wheels and kuhmo tires:) I also added a CD player.
good little car
sak713, 01/10/2004
2002 Kia Spectra 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
so far the car has been good we had one recall something to do with something in the gas tank but we took it back to the dealer and it was fixed in less then 30 min. so far nothing else has happened. Tires are a different thing.they suck.they need to find a different kind of tire to put on the car they are fine if you dont have to drive in snow. but trust me dont drive the car off the lot in the tires that are on the car if it snowing out. but other then that it a nice car. theres plenty of room in the back for a car seat. but if you have to put two in dont plan on anyone else riding back there. but we like it.
What do you want from a price point car?
elderchuck, 01/23/2006
2002 Kia Spectra GSX 4dr Hatchback (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Sometimes problematic on cheap stuff, but overall fun and economical car to drive and own. Hesitation/surges when warmed up, dealer says "normal" but I say "not". Heard there is a fix but have not found it yet. Would keep car for comfort, economy, price.
Worth The Price
R Tronick, 03/05/2004
2002 Kia Spectra GS 4dr Hatchback (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought this car new 1-1/2 years ago. 5 speed manual transmission, AC, Rear Wiper, CD Player. I've never had any problems. I did get the letter about the cracked ORVR Valve problem, and had my deler replace it. I'm getting good gas mileage (25 city/35 hwy). Tires could be better, but I really haven't had much trouble driving in snow (Wisconsin) or rain. My Spectra is comfortable and fun to drive. A reliable car for the price.
Spectra's are POS
pizz, 03/09/2004
2002 Kia Spectra LS 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I purchased my Spectra in July of 2003. I have had so many things wrong with it since I got it. Right now my clear coat is coming off my car. They are not a good car in the winter because they are so lite. The total amount of time I have taken my car in to get fix in the short time that I have had this car is seven. They might have a good warrenty on it but they wouldn't need to if they made a good car. I know many other people who own a 2002 Spectra and one had to but a new motor in it at 44,000 miles and another one has to get a transmission in the car. No wonder why these cars are cheap.
My clutch went out
estradac17, 03/15/2004
2002 Kia Spectra GS 4dr Hatchback (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I got this car new and have only put 40000 mile on it the clutch went out my goodyear did the work i have the parts they told me that the clutch was deffective i called kia no help take it to the dealer took it to the dealer just as i thought . its not the clutch it was the way i drive .. im 39years old and have had sticks all my life my nissans have all gotten 150k before they go out ... so much for the long haul warraniy
eh... it's good for the price
Jamie, 07/02/2006
2002 Kia Spectra 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
It gets me where I need to go. No major problems. The only bad part is the standard interior is not fun. No automatic door locks, windows etc. Other than that, it's not too bad for the low price.
Spectra -economy and practicality
spectra owner, 04/05/2004
2002 Kia Spectra GSX 4dr Hatchback (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought the car in late 2001, it is my first new vehicle. At the time I was a single mom carting around two boys and all of their junk as well, the car has been reliable and who would not love the 10 yr. warranty. The only problem I have had lies in the hatch release, it works sometimes other times it jams completely. It has been serviced twice relating to this issue and continues to be a problem. All in all I am very happy with the Spectra, it was in my price range and has served me well.
Possible Problems
Jack's kia, 04/17/2004
2002 Kia Spectra GSX 4dr Hatchback (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Problamtaic Car. I have had nothing but problems with this car. Had all 4 door sensors replace, throttle plate replaced, ORGR valve recall, seat belt unlatches, transmission problems they cant seam to fix, rear hatch seal wont stay on, cheap interior materials, already show wear, rear hatch never opens with release. Overall needed a inexpensive reliable car, and although it has never left me stranded, will NEVER buy a kia again, or from the dealership (taylor kia) in toledo.
Kia vs Honda
Ukraine, 03/08/2003
2002 Kia Spectra GSX 4dr Hatchback (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I researched for 5 mos.I wanted a Honda Civic. And was able to buy the Kia GSX with all of the same features for $3,600 less! Gas mileage exceeds what they post. In town I can get up to 29mpg. On the hwy have even gotten up to 33 mpg! I get loads of compliments and questions on it. Some people think it's a BMW, with its styling.Terrific driving performance.
Aching back
mark chrisopher, 08/17/2004
2002 Kia Spectra 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
The "adjustable" seats are very uncomfortable. An 'extended drive' (30+min) leave my back aching. The seat belt buckle digs into my thigh. The plastic interior is shoddy. The car never settles into 5th gear but keeps on winding...very irritating.
My review title
Gurn Blanston, 09/28/2004
2002 Kia Spectra LS 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Purchased new in 2002. Haven't had any major problems yet. No repairs needed. No warrenty claims. I've had the services done at the dealership about every 3000 miles. Being 6'4" it's a little tight for me on the leg room, but really not too bad considering. The only real aggravation I've had with it has to do with a design flaw and my having size 12 shoes. There is an armature about where the toes of a right size 12 shoe that controls the air-handling system (where the air squirts out from) and about once a month I kick that armature off. It's been pretty easy to put back on though...30 second repair. Hmmm...75 characters remaining...oops, 46 now.
Never again
anti-kia, 11/16/2004
2002 Kia Spectra GS 4dr Hatchback (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
The Kia was the right price at the time for a college student. However, in driving the vehicle it was not worth it. The trade in value was only 3000 after a year and a half of driving. I was upside down by 6000. The interior was cheap and all the buttons were chipping paint. The exterior paint could be scratched with a finger nail and then rust immediately. The drivers seat broke and some metal rod was sticking out into the middle of your back. The check engine light kept coming on and the dealer could not find anything wrong. It turned out to be the exhaust system causing the problem. The cover for the speaker broke, as did the weather stripping across the hachback trunk.
Excellent Product
Andrew, 12/07/2004
2002 Kia Spectra 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Incredible dealership, great value car. Thank God for Kia's high depreciation rate, bad for them but good for me, I'll drive this one into the ground. Extremely cheap extended warranty added 6 yrs, 80K miles! Paying less 180/mo for 48 mos. Comfortable, although I miss power windows and locks.
One good little car
barkel, 03/14/2003
2002 Kia Spectra LS 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
At first I was not sure about buying this car, but after the test drive I was excited about the power, handling, and above all the price. Kia really backs up their product as well. My wife has a Honda Civic, and the Kia on average get very close to the same gas mialage, and it has more spunk and comfort overall. The civic has had numerous interior problems which we had repaired under warrenty, but not a single problem has been had from the Kia.
Great Car
SAY iT, 07/31/2005
2002 Kia Spectra LS 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
OK, So i bought this car used at about 25k and have had it for 22k. I probably can say that this car is a better performing car than my friend's Civic (in power that is). Great gas mileage, little trouble, except when I had to change my front wheel bearings [covered under warranty even @45K). I am little concerned with the brakes; they tend to be needing readjusting every so often to fix the weak braking power. As second owner I have the 5 year/60k warranty which I have used 3 time's when I locked myself out :-). Mine is a LS 5 speed with everything except the ABS. I LOOOOVE the car. I believe the KIA's need to be taken more seriously.
not bad so far
kidnoel, 05/11/2006
2002 Kia Spectra GS 4dr Hatchback (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Bought the car used about 8 months ago. Had about 40K miles on it. Was concerned it would give me problems right away. Has proved reliable so far. I have been on many road trips. Have only needed regular maintenance. Original brakes haven't needed replacing yet. Love that it hardly looks like a hatchback and people can't even tell what it is. GREAT fuel economy: 28-34. Got 400 miles on a tank last week-all highway.
Warranty will be used frequently
Andy, 02/23/2007
2002 Kia Spectra LS 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
2002 Kia Spectra LS is basic transport. I bought car brand new and I am original owner. Some of warranty repairs in chronological order: All items listed are true replacements under warranty - exhaust purge cannister, front brakes, front exhaust, heater switch,drivers back board seat,engine gaskets, front struts replaced, rear main seal leaking, sun visor, arm rest. After timing belt replacement the check engine light came on for eight times, the timing belt was changed incorrectly by dealer. Summary : A big headache to own.
I'm Very Happy
SPIKE, 04/17/2003
2002 Kia Spectra GS 4dr Hatchback (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I enjoy my spectra. The warranty is great. Kia (The Company) is very nice to deal with. However, plan to keep your spectra. The trade in value on mine with 21,000 miles and clean was only $6000.00
Perfect Car
Nilesh, 08/17/2007
2002 Kia Spectra GS 4dr Hatchback (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I was lucky I bought this car!! I drive like 200 miles a day back and forth to my work, but Kia is one tough car which gives me performance which I need. I love the shape of 2002 hatchback, it is like sports car. I get around 30 miles per gallon for 2002 model, thats extraordinary. I will recommend to buy Kia Spectra, it is a really nice car.
I am alive
Charles_wr, 05/09/2003
2002 Kia Spectra GSX 4dr Hatchback (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
On May 1, 2003 I lost control of my car (my fault) traveled 30 feet off the road through a barbed wire fence, two tree and slammed into a utility pole head on at 70 mph and came to rest 150 on the other side of the pole. Three hours after the wreck I was at home resting with only a scratch on my elbow. Amazingly, NOTHING on the inside of the car moved from the impact. This car did save my life.
I Love My Kia
J-Girl, 05/07/2003
2002 Kia Spectra GS 4dr Hatchback (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
After driving a Toyota for several years, I needed a new car. I ended up buying a Kia. I needed the peace of mind of the warranty and the smaller price tag. I loved my Toyota, but I have to say that I have been equally happy with the Kia performance. Sure, the inside is not a luxury car, but it drives great and really has a zip to it. The storage is incredible. I am not too impressed with the quality of the tires. I have already put about 7K miles on them and I think that I will probably only get another 7-10K by the looks of them. I think it is an ideal economy car for a college student or your first car.
gift-car
ix, 12/09/2002
2002 Kia Spectra GSX 4dr Hatchback (1.8L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
decided on a kia due to it's warranty and price value. having a 10-yr warranty says this car will last or we're putting our company's coffer's in an jeopardy. price incentives to get kia established as a viable alternative to gotten-to-be-expensive toyota's and honda's.
Safety
dover, 05/23/2003
2002 Kia Spectra GS 4dr Hatchback (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
The only bad thing I have to say about this car is it is underpowered. The milage is great, as well as the reliability. We did not have one problem with our KIA. We recently were in a head on collision in the KIA and this car withstood this impact and kept my family safe. The wreck was pretty bad, but the Spectra did it's job preventing serious injury. The car is now totaled and I would not hesitate to get another one...
Love the Car!!
mazkds, 03/15/2008
2002 Kia Spectra 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
We bought our Spectra brand new with 28 miles on it. We have not had to put hardly any money into it (besides normal maintenance). We have almost 104,000 miles on it and have taken it on a number of long trips over the eastern half of the US. Our only complaint is that the front bumper is completely faded and the dashboard is warping. So I think the quality could have been a little higher. For $11,000 (brand new) I can't really say that I am disappointed. I think we have a great car and look forward to driving it for many more years. GO KIA!!!
Can't Be Beat for the Price
lhartford03, 04/02/2008
2002 Kia Spectra 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have found my Kia to be very reliable. Few mechanical problems (I keep up on maintenance). Good pick up for a 4 cyl - I have 5 speed version. Overall, the car has gone above and beyond what I would have expected for the price.
gooooood
jaymartin, 03/25/2002
2002 Kia Spectra 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
the car runs well in the one month of purches. i'm very happy so for THE ONLY THING IS THAT MY WINDOW SEALS LEAK ON THE CAR WHEN WASHING
Reliable but falling apart
jojoberry, 04/10/2008
2002 Kia Spectra LS 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I've had this car since 2002, and am the original owner. Mechanically wise, this car has run well- especially for a car with over 130K miles now. Only major mechanical problems would be that the AC compressor has been replaced twice now. The major problems I've had are all small and very annoying things, like the dash warping and the dash vents breaking; the doors will lock and unlock without any prompting; most plastic pieces in the car have broken off (i.e., the mirror covers, the armrest, etc.); the paint faded in under 3 years (BAD fading on the bumpers); the doors won't shut on a cold morning; etc. Overall, the car is a good value for the money, but I don't think I'd own another one.
My 2002 Kia Spectra Reliable
JED, 04/20/2008
2002 Kia Spectra 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have 65,000 miles on it. I only have has minor issues on the car. It's pretty reliable and GREAT on gas. If someone is looking for a car that's economical and can't afford a civic or a corolla this is the car with comparable features as the competitors. I wish Kia and Hyundai would hold their value much better. Overall it's been a great car and Korean have come up in the auto industry.
Pros and Cons
brookeb, 11/20/2011
2002 Kia Spectra 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
My Kia Spectra gets 35 miles to the gallon average. Since my purchase in June 2011, I have put 11,000 miles on my car, raising its total to 141,000. I have already replaced one tire, the engine damper, a shift cellanoid, two taillights and a headlight, and am currently in the process of replacing the trans relay switch. My transmission occasionally slips, and it doesn't have a "floaty" ride like some sites claim because the shocks quickly disintegrate. Overall, I do love my Kia despite severe hail damage and some minor issues. The cost of repairs thus far has cost me around 750$, less than half of what I paid for it. However, I likely wouldn't buy a newer model Kia because of poor reviews.
Got 166,000 miles but with problems
julia17, 02/06/2012
2002 Kia Spectra 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
My 2002 Kia Spectra just threw a head gasket at 166,000 miles. Previous problems: the a/c went out in 2007 and was repaired for $1400. It went out again about 9 months later and the mechanic wanted another $750. Shortly afterwards, the heat went out. I replaced the clutch 3 times. Also replaced a valve in the braking system for $250. Lots of the cheap plastic interior broke and/or fell off including the driver's side sun visor. The driver'side seatbelt also broke and had to be replaced. I did a lot of driving for work and both knees and hips were hurting me due to driving this car. If you're only going to put maybe 10-12,000 miles/year on a 2002 Spectra, it may be worthwhile.
15 years with my kia a not problems !
javier, 04/04/2017
2002 Kia Spectra GS 4dr Hatchback (1.8L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
It s not a strong car at all but is good enough if you have good driving habits I bought this car 0 miles and now have 113,200 and runs very good after 15 years! in city 22 mpg in highway 30 mpg
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Diamond in the rough?
Jamie T., 04/17/2017
updated 05/07/2020
2002 Kia Spectra GSX 4dr Hatchback (1.8L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
It's not a Honda or Toyota, and doesn't pretend to be. But, for what it is, it does its job quite well. I get 30Mpg out of mine, mostly highway. It's relatively quiet, well-mannered, and unassuming. I bought mine for $550 at a used lot, replaced the battery, alternator, brakes and had 4 new Douglas (by Kelly tire) all season tires installed. One year later, my wife has taken possession of this car. I have replaced the plugs, coils, wires, and the respective electrical connector for the coils. A can of Seafoam later, it's running even better than it did after I bought it. I've been looking into something newer for her, but she absolutely refuses to give up the Spectra. I guess that says all I need to say. Update: at close to 300k, the spectra finally have up the ghost. It took only three weeks of my son to put her to rest. If you come across one of these in decent shape, it's worth buying.
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Kia Crappia
Jay Walker, 04/07/2002
2002 Kia Spectra LS 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 2 people found this review helpful
This is the worst car in the world, even worse than Jeeps. It gives the driver a poor feeling, and makes him wonder when it'll break down again. All the features are the bare minimum in quality and it is the ugliest car in the world. Please, KIA, get rid of this car...it is terrible.
Not good enough
No Please, 02/14/2003
2002 Kia Spectra GS 4dr Hatchback (1.8L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 2 people found this review helpful
10 yr warranty? NOT!! I WAS CHARGED $1,000 FOR IT!! Want more? When I start it in the mornings, it makes weird sounds and TURNS OFF. I have to start it again! In the dealership they told me that Kia Motors knew about the failure and would fix all the cars...they never did. Headlights offer incredibly poor illumination...thanks to that, my husband crashed one night. Car design is ugly...it looks old. Too little features for the price. While accelerating, it jumps and feels weird. But the car build is very strong. One day, I crashed...nothing happened! Same thing with my husband. Cool storage spaces and interior lights. However, its not good enough.
Lots of life left after 100K miles!
kikithekia, 09/05/2013
2002 Kia Spectra 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 1 people found this review helpful
Bought this car (my first ever) with 100,000 miles; have put 4500 on myself. Anything I've had to do mechanically is to be expected with the high mileage and was coming eventually  replace OEM alternator and serpentine belt, plus timing belt as a preventative measure. Mechanic said the rattling I hear in the body of the car can be fixed inexpensively, but is mostly cosmetic and can wait. Very low to ground; be careful over even small speed bumps. Overall I love it, pleasantly surprised! Expected better MPG (22/30+) but fun and easy car to drive. Serves me quite well. It keeps going and I feel like it has lots of life left even after so many miles. I'd consider a Kia in the future!
To soon to tell, but
Yas, 09/20/2002
2002 Kia Spectra LS 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 1 people found this review helpful
at least no reviewers complaining about any major problems with this car. Recently paid 10,500$, taxes included for a 2002 Spectra LS with 5600 miles on it. First foriegn car ever and it's about what I expected. Bought it for my college bound daughter just for the warranty and I hope economy. Time will tell.