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Used Kia Sportage: what to check before you buy

A newer Sportage often still has the 7-year or 150,000 km factory warranty. It passes to the next owner if the car had its services on time.

Translated from Romanian. These guides describe Romanian rules.

Generations

  • second generation (2004–2010)
  • third generation (2010–2015)
  • fourth generation (2015–2021)
  • fifth generation (from 2021)

Engines and gearboxes

  • The 1.6 GDI and 1.6 T-GDI direct-injection petrol engines: ask about oil consumption and regular changes.
  • The 1.7 and 2.0 CRDi diesels are tough, but the particulate filter suffers if the car is only driven in town.
  • The 7DCT dual-clutch gearbox (from the fourth generation) should shift smoothly, with no jerking when pulling away.

What to check at the viewing

  • the service book with services at an authorised dealer (a condition of the warranty)
  • when the warranty expires
  • the drivetrain and coupling on AWD versions
  • mileage, via Vehicle History from the Romanian Auto Registry (RAR) or Auto-Pass on rarom.ro
  • the condition of the running gear

Read also

Updated: October 2026. This guide is for information only and is not legal advice. Rules and fees change, so check the official websites before you decide.