Kia 1.7 CRDi
Evolved diesel with slightly more displacement for better pulling power. Smoother than the 1.6 — DPF problems on short trips possible.
Underpowered for everyday use
116 hp 1.7 CRDi in the Sportage QL — more common sense than fun. Ideal only for city commuters without mountain passes.
Engine Weaknesses 7
The electronically controlled EGR valve of the D4FD becomes packed with soot deposits and sticks. Cleaning the valve and intake tract is routinely due at around 80,000–100,000 km.
Symptoms: Judder at low load, engine warning light EGR fault, poor performance in the lower rev range
Bosch direct injectors of the D4FD can be damaged by poor fuel quality. Copper sealing washers must be renewed every 100,000–150,000 km, otherwise combustion gases escape into the cylinder head.
Symptoms: Hard starting, uneven running, increased fuel consumption, smoke on start-up
From around 150,000 km the D4FD's DPF becomes problematic: blockage causes regeneration failures and oil dilution in the crankcase from fuel injected during forced regeneration.
Symptoms: DPF warning light, engine power reduction, increased fuel consumption, oil level rises (diesel mixes into oil)
The Garrett turbo of the D4FD can cause boost loss through a faulty variable vane mechanism or a seized vacuum actuator. The vacuum valve (part no. 35120-2A400) is a known wear item.
Symptoms: Loss of boost pressure, power loss under load, fault code P0299 (turbo underboost), occasional overboost flutter
The 1.7 CRDi suffers severely from DPF problems in predominantly short-trip use. Documented in Polish forums: regeneration every 50–80 km instead of the normal 250–300 km, oil level rises from fuel dilution.
Symptoms: Very frequent DPF regeneration, oil level rising due to fuel dilution, power drop, DPF warning light, limp-home mode.
The D4FD's EGR valve tends to carbon up, leading to power loss and increased fuel consumption. Typical issue of the 1.7 CRDi unit, frequently occurring alongside DPF problems.
Symptoms: Power loss, judder under partial load, fault code P0401/P0404, limp-home mode.
The 1.7 CRDi is prone to premature DMF fatigue like the other U-series diesels. The DMF wears quickly particularly in constant urban use or with an aggressive clutch style.
Symptoms: Vibration and rattling on pull-away and cold start, jerky gear changes.
Vehicle Weaknesses 6
A short circuit in the ABS/ESC unit can lead to engine bay fire. A worldwide recall was initiated for affected vehicles (mainly models with Smart Cruise Control 2015–2020) to replace the fuses.
On some Sportage QL models, the electronic parking brake doesn't release when a drive gear is selected. The cause is often insufficient voltage supply on one side. Kia is familiar with the issue and repairs it under warranty.
Steering joints and tie rod ends are listed as frequent advisory items on the Sportage QL in the MOT report. The electric power steering can also become uneven at higher mileage.
The Sportage QL's AC condenser sits exposed behind the radiator and is frequently damaged by stone chips, causing refrigerant loss. Repair costs around €400–600.
The exhaust system on the Sportage QL rusts comparatively quickly, particularly the rear silencer. On vehicles over 6 years old, holes and MOT advisories are a risk.
The Sportage QL's suspension shows accelerated bearing wear due to the vehicle's weight. MOT inspectors frequently flag worn control arm bushings and anti-roll bar bushings.
Reports & Tests
1043 owner complaints filed with NHTSA (2015–2021). Most reported: Engine (527), Other (184), Electrical (154).