Kia Problems

Thanks for the feedback. I know Nexen is poor but was not aware of the Kumho wear issue with Kia.

All Kia models after 2010 have timing chains, which don't need to be changed, but yours has a belt and it needs to be changed every 90,000 km or 72 months, whichever comes first. Not changing it is risking major internal damage to the engine if the belt should break. Replacing should cost around $400.

I'd suggest you wait, just a little, and investigate the new breed of compact SUVs. Right now you can choose from the Subaru XV and Renault Captur, which I give The Tick, but soon enough there will also be a Mazda CX-3 that looks like the pick of the litter.

Definitely pay extra for the camera, but if you're not going camping or off-road then there is no point to all-wheel drive.

It's likely to have Nexen tyres, which are the poorest of the Korean tyres we have tested. In that case, the wear is down to poor quality tyres. You will get nowhere with Kia as tyres are always wear-and-tear items and outside warranty.

Unfortunately you'll cop the full whack of depreciation. As a trade-in you could anticipate getting around $25,000, if you sold it privately you could possibly get $30,000.

Reputation is one thing, reality is another. There was a time when Toyota stood alone but those days are gone and you pay too much for a T badge on the bonnet, although it still has easily the best aircon in the business. For me, Hyundai and Kia match Toyota in almost every area, plus they have a far better value package.

Generally petrol is better if your driving is short trips, diesels are much better when you drive longer distances and steady speeds are better than stop-start running.

The Kia Carnival gets The Tick, every time, in that price range. And with four kids you will find that a proper people-mover gives far more flexibility than an SUV or even a converted van.

A Kia Sportage is good value, solid and probably will have some warranty at that price. Others to consider are the Nissan Dualis and Hyundai ix35, depending on how much space you need.