Kia 2.0 CRDi 136
Robust inline four-cylinder diesel with common-rail injection and aluminium block. Solid reliability with good care — watch the EGR valve and particulate filter in urban use.
Sensible base SUV diesel
136 hp CRDi covers everyday Sportage QL duties. Not a driver's car, but an honest companion for families and commuters.
Engine Weaknesses 6
On the D4HA the crankshaft vibration damper is known to disintegrate: rubber buffers between the damper mass and the belt pulley detach and produce loud noises. Easily confused with timing chain noise.
Symptoms: Loud clacking or rattling from the engine bay on revving, the noise type resembles chain issues but does not occur at cold start
The D4HA 2.0 CRDi in the Sportage QL/NQ5 is known for EGR problems. The EGR valve sticks in city driving and triggers fault codes. Regular cleaning or replacement is recommended from 100,000 km.
Symptoms: Judder under partial load, engine warning light EGR fault, poor performance below 2,000 rpm, elevated exhaust emissions
Like all 2.0 CRDi generations, the D4HA needs speed and load for DPF regeneration. SUV-typical short-trip use leads to blockage. In the worst case, fuel dilution of the engine oil occurs.
Symptoms: DPF warning light, engine power reduction, regeneration warning tone, oil level rising (fuel ingress)
The 2.0 CRDi suffers from DPF blockage in frequent city driving. EGR-related soot loading accelerates accumulation; short trips prevent active regeneration.
Symptoms: DPF warning light, noticeably reduced power, greatly increased consumption, limp-home mode active.
The D4HA's EGR valve is prone to carbonisation from soot deposits at higher mileages. EGR cooler leaks have also been reported.
Symptoms: Power loss, judder at low load, fault code P0401/P0404, limp-home mode.
The VGT turbocharger of the D4HA can fail through carbonisation of the vane mechanism and failure of the electronic actuator. Vehicles with high mileage and heavy urban use are most commonly affected.
Symptoms: Significant power loss, limp-home mode, whistling from the turbo area, fault code P0299 (boost pressure too low).
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).