Common Problems with the
2014 Kia Sportage (SL)

The facelift improved trim and infotainment, but the core used-buy checks did not change: diesel after-treatment, rear suspension and AWD driveline condition matter most.

Common MOT watch-outs

  • !Rear suspension bushes
  • !Brake-pipe corrosion
  • !Rear brake imbalance
3
Known Issues
0
Serious
3
Moderate
0
Minor

The 2014 period has 2 more issues than the Kia Sportage (SL) average across all year periods.

All Known Issues

DPF and EGR clogging on CRDi models

ModerateExhaust & Emissions

Like many family SUVs, short journeys clog the DPF and EGR system, causing poor economy, limp mode and repeat warning lights on otherwise strong engines.

Most affected: 1.7 CRDi, 2.0 CRDi

Estimated cost: £180–£900Affects: 20102015Often appears around: 60,000–130,000 miles

Typical symptoms

  • DPF warning
  • Limp mode
  • Hesitation
  • Fan running after shutdown

What to inspect before you buy

  • Ask about usage pattern
  • Look for recent DPF or EGR work
  • Assess boost and smoke on a longer drive

AWD coupling and rear differential noise

ModerateGearbox & Transmission

Matched tyres and correct servicing matter. Neglect can lead to rear-coupling judder or differential whine, especially on higher-mileage AWD Sportages.

Most affected: AWD petrol, AWD diesel

Estimated cost: £400–£1,100Affects: 20102015Often appears around: 70,000–120,000 miles

Typical symptoms

  • Hum from rear
  • Judder on full lock
  • Vibration under acceleration

What to inspect before you buy

  • Full-lock manoeuvres
  • Diff service evidence
  • Tyre brand and tread-depth match across both axles

Rear suspension bush and link wear

ModerateSuspension & Chassis

A common UK wear theme rather than a design disaster. Bushes, links and dampers tire, leaving the rear of the car noisy and unsettled.

Most affected: All SL Sportage variants

Estimated cost: £180–£420Affects: 20102015Often appears around: 50,000–100,000 miles

Typical symptoms

  • Thump from rear over sharp bumps
  • Uneven rear tyre wear
  • Advisories for bushes or links

What to inspect before you buy

  • Drive on rough roads
  • Inspect rear tyres for feathering
  • Review MOT history for recurring rear axle notes

Buying Tips for the 2014 Kia Sportage (SL)

  • Check the rear end for noises on rough roads because bushes and links do wear on heavier SUVs
  • On AWD models, listen for rear driveline hum and make sure all four tyres match closely
  • Many 1.7 CRDi cars have lived gentle urban lives, so DPF health matters as much as service history
  • Inspect underbody brake pipes and rear brakes — both show up in UK MOT records

Browse 2014 Kia Sportage (SL) in our Directory

View MOT history, registration data, and reliability scores for 2014 Kia Sportage (SL) vehicles.

View 2014 Directory

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