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2017 Kia Sportage Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated Jun 10, 2026·Ryan Davis·3 Critical Recalls
2017 Kia Sportage Report

Overall Score

7.4/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • Prioritize inspection of the HECU electrical system and confirm recall SC206 completion due to fire risk.
  • Verify that any vehicle that underwent engine replacement has had recall SC172 (fuel system leak risk) properly addressed.
  • Confirm trailer hitch recalls (SC142, SC249) are completed and inspect hitch wiring for damage.
  • A high TSB count (97) indicates numerous other potential issues, especially in powertrain and electrical systems.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2017 Kia Sportage

The 2017 Kia Sportage offers a compelling package for used car shoppers, blending practical SUV utility with a strong safety rating. However, a closer look reveals significant recall activity, particularly concerning potential fire risks from the HECU and fuel system, alongside numerous trailer hitch-related issues. While complaint data is notably absent, the volume of recalls and TSBs suggests potential systemic vulnerabilities that buyers must consider. Its All-Wheel Drive system and 21 MPG combined fuel economy make it a sensible choice for daily driving, but thorough pre-purchase inspection is paramount.

Critical Failure Risk

Recalls address potential short circuits in the Hydraulic Electronic Control Unit (HECU) electrical circuit, posing a fire risk. This can stem from moisture intrusion or component degradation.

Early detection can help you avoid a $300-$800 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls12
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

0

No primary complaint themes found.

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
21
MPG
City
20
MPG
Highway
23
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

8.5/ 10

Practicality

4.8/ 10

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Buyers prioritizing strong safety ratings in a compact SUV.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Buyers seeking a trouble-free, low-maintenance ownership experience.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2017 Kia Sportage Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2017 Kia Sportage.

  • Recall TimelineOfficial safety notices
  • Owner ComplaintsReal driver reports
  • Failure AnalysisKnown part defects
Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Regular
Seating Capacity
5
Transmission
Automatic
Drivetrain
All-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Suv
EPA Combined MPG
21

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Unlock the complete checklist, maintenance outlook, and buyer verdict in one place.

Most Common Issues

1. HECU Electrical Short

Most reported

Usage data observed

2. Fuel System Leaks

Usage data observed

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change and Filter Replacement (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Inspect Brake System

Est. shop cost: $100 - $150

7,500 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist
Complete maintenance schedule (5 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
12 recall campaign details & remedy notes
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2017 Kia Sportage reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2017 Kia Sportage is 8.5/10. Reliability score is 8.5/10. NHTSA recalls: 12. Owner complaints: 0.

How practical is the 2017 Kia Sportage for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 4.8/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 21 MPG. Seating capacity is 5. 4 passenger doors are listed.

What is the overall score for the 2017 Kia Sportage?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2017 Kia Sportage is 7.4/10. Overall score is 7.4/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.7/10. Practicality 4.8/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2017 Kia Sportage?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change and Filter Replacement (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Inspect Brake System at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $500 - $800. Repair prediction highlight: HECU Electrical System (typical at 75,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $200 • Max: $500).

What is the MSRP range for the 2017 Kia Sportage?▾

Base MSRP is $25,700.

What engine is in the 2017 Kia Sportage?▾

Engine specs list 4 • 2.0.

What transmission does the 2017 Kia Sportage use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Kia Sportage, transmission is Automatic. The paired drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2017 Kia Sportage?▾

EPA combined estimate is 21 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2017 Kia Sportage?▾

8 standard and 2 optional driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.

How many people fit in a 2017 Kia Sportage?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Kia Sportage, seating capacity is 5.

What body style is the 2017 Kia Sportage?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Kia Sportage, body style is suv.

What drivetrain does the 2017 Kia Sportage use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Kia Sportage, drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic.

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2017 Kia Sportage?▾

NHTSA ratings: Overall 5/5 • Frontal 4/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.

Are there open safety recalls on the 2017 Kia Sportage?▾

This model year has 12 official safety campaigns listed.

Start Here

Maintenance guide

Costs + intervals

Recall report

Campaigns + remedy notes

Owner complaints

Issue volume + categories

In this guide

  1. 01Overview
  2. 02Who This Car Is For
  3. 03Reliability & Problems
  4. 04Vehicle Specs
  5. 05Unlock Full Report
  6. 06FAQ

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