Hello,

I have an 2002 Kia Optima and my driver said window has a crunchy noise when I move it down and it won’t go down very far??? They are power windows.

Genesis

Hello Genesis,

you most likely either have one of the following:

1. The window glass itself is not properly in the track (glass might be loose or sag inward more than the passenger side does)
2. The window “Regulator” is cracked or broken and will need to be replaced. The regulator basically holds the glass in place as it moved up and down. Its flemsy, plastic and with 7 years of age I would not be surprised if it has broken.

either way, the interior door panel has to come off for inspection, so make sure your mechanic is capable of doing that kind of work….most small shops sub out window glass regulator installations, so ask who they use. Look under “auto window glass” in your phone book or websearch, you might find a mobile company that comes to your work to do the repairs.

Regulator is only available at the dealership, so you will have to go there anyway if that is what is wrong, you might want to ask the service department how much they charge to do the installation so you can compare.

We would charge $150 in labor plus the part

hope that helps

Blessings,
Austin Davis
http://www.trustmymechanic.com
http://www.myhonestmechanic.com

Hello!
I have a 2005 Kia Sedona. I just recently had my front rotors and brake pads replaced. Also at the same time I had drivers side axle replaced and pass. side strut replaced for thudding and knocking noises, which I still hear, Anyway.

My brakes are still squealing loudly and the dealership cant figure out why. Can u please advise me. Thanks Amanda

Hi Amanda!

Since you have already replaced the rotors and the pads…and used genuine KIA parts, I would try installing another set of pads, you might have a defect NEW set. The knocking noise could be coming from worn strut mount bushings located at the top of the strut under the hood, or from a broken/worn motor or transmission mount.

You should ask the dealership if they inspected these items, and if they will replace the new pads under warranty to see if that solves the problem with the brake noise. I am assuming the noise has been confirmed as to coming from the front brakes and not the rear? Noises are hard to pinpoint, it could be coming from the rear brakes.

You can slowly apply the emergency brake (while pulling up on the release handle) while driving 30MPH or so in a vacant parking lot. The emergency brake only uses the rear brakes, so if the noise is present….the rear brakes are the culprit.

Austin Davis

My engine light stays on, I have gotten gas and left the gas cap off for a few miles home and it seems to go away for awhile it does it more when its cold or gets down low on gas. My gas mileage sucks right now and at $4 a gallon I need to fix this, I cant afford a mechanic so my great dad is trying to help me but its hard on the newer cars so any help you can give me would so be appreciated.

Thanks Teresa

Hey there Teresa,

I don’t think you have a problem with the PCV valve, that helps ventilate the exhaust gases inside the engine, but I don’t think it is the culprit here. First things first…you are going to have to get the on board computer codes read and see what the computer sees as the problem. Yes, leaving the gas cap loose can cause the check engine light to come on, but it will not affect fuel mileage, so you probably have something else going on here.

Unfortunately the only thing I can suggest is to see a mechanic, have them read the computer codes and diagnose the problem for you. I would NOT go to a fast lube place or a franchise auto parts place claiming they can do computer diagnosis….most of those places can not! You will just spend your time and money guessing at parts. I would go to the dealership OR a qualified KIA mechanic, trust me you will save money in the long run.

Blessings,

Austin Davis

Summary
2007 Kia Sportage is a sports utility that can seat five passengers. It has four doors.

Price
MSRP: US$15,900-US$22,895
Invoice: US$15,150-US$21,370

What is New in 2007 Kia Sportage?
Notable changes include upgraded MP3-capable CD audio system, leather steering wheel, black mesh grille, rear spoiler, and shift knob.

2007 Kia Sportage picture (front view)

2007 Kia Sportage picture (side view)

Introduction
2007 Kia Sportage is a superb purchase for all available features and accessories. It proves to be a leader among other SUVs.

Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options
2007 Kia Sportage is available in six trims ranging from LX I4 2WD to EX V6 4WD. Options include premium audio system with six-disc CD changer, auto-dimming mirror, leather steering wheel, fog lights, keyless entry, and leather upholstery.

Powertrains and Performance
2007 Kia Sportage offers standard 173hp 2.7-liter V6 engine with four-speed automatic transmission and overdrive or 140hp 2.0-liter I4 engine with five-speed manual transmission and overdrive or optional four-speed automatic transmission and overdrive. It delivers 19 to 23-mpg in city and 23 to 28-mpg on highway.

Interior Design and Special Features
Interiors are attractive, spacious, and functional. Quality of materials is good. Folding rear seats offer extensive cargo space.

Safety Features
Standard safety measures include stability control, traction control, front-seat side airbags, antilock disc brakes, and side curtain airbags for both front- and rear-seat occupants.

Driving Impressions
Although a SUV, ride is similar to that of a car. Engines need more power and transmissions should be smoother.

Pros
Stylish interiors, impressive, and numerous safety features

Cons
Engines require higher power

Summary
2007 Kia Spectra5 is a family sedan that can seat five passengers. It has four doors.

Price
MSRP: US$15,995
Invoice: US$14,955

What is New in 2007 Kia Spectra5?
Changes include tire-pressure monitoring system, small changes to interiors and exteriors, and tire-pressure monitoring system.

2007 Kia Spectra5 picture (front view)

2007 Kia Spectra5 picture (side view)

Introduction
Exteriors sport a new look with changed bumper, grille, and headlamps. Changed interiors add to its looks, although it is unable to meet looks and features of other competitors.

Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options
2007 Kia Spectra5 is available in a single trim of SX. Options include leather-wrapped steering wheel, sport-tuned suspension, cruise control, sunroof, six-disc CD changer, and bigger tires.

Powertrains and Performance
2007 Kia Spectra5 offers standard 138hp 2.0-liter I4 engine with five-speed manual transmission and overdrive. Four-speed automatic transmission with overdrive is optional. It delivers 25-mpg in city and 33-mpg on highway.

Interior Design and Special Features
Interiors are of good quality materials with easily operational and approachable controls. Seats are comfortable and storage spaces are many. Cargo space is sufficient.

Safety Features
Safety features include standard front-and-rear side curtain airbags, front seat-mounted airbags, tire-pressure monitoring system, and optional antilock brakes.

Driving Impressions
Powerful engines with high torque, stiff suspension, and good handling dynamics offer easy and comfortable ride. Engine noise is disturbing at high speeds.

Pros
Affordable costs and functional interiors

Cons
Antilock brakes not available as standard safety measure

Summary
2007 Kia Spectra is a family sedan that can seat five passengers. It has four doors.

Price
MSRP: US$12,895-US$15,995
Invoice: US$12,345-US$14,955

What is New in 2007 Kia Spectra?
Minor changes to 2007 Kia Spectra include auxiliary audio input jack and standard tire-pressure monitoring system.

2007 Kia Spectra picture (front view)

2007 Kia Spectra picture (side view)

Introduction
2007 Kia Spectra offers good warranty coverage. Although it is a comfortable and useful vehicle, yet, it can further improve on few sectors like safety, looks, and equipment.

Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options
2007 Kia Spectra is available in three trims ranging from LX to SX. Options include leather-wrapped steering wheel, cruise control, keyless entry, metal-finish interior accents, and cloth sport seats.

Powertrains and Performance
2007 Kia Spectra offers standard 138hp 2.0-liter I4 engine with five-speed manual transmission and overdrive. Four-speed automatic transmission with overdrive is optional.

Interior Design and Special Features
Interiors of 2007 Kia Spectra are simple with easy to operate and approach controls, comfortable seats, and many storage spaces like cup holders.

Safety Features
Standard safety measures of 2007 Kia Spectra include front-and-rear side curtain airbags, front seat-mounted airbags, tire-pressure monitoring system, and optional antilock brakes.

Driving Impressions
2007 Kia Spectra offers pleasant drive with adequate gearbox and sufficient torque. Engine noise is high and disturbing at higher speeds.

Pros
Comfortable and spacious interiors, affordable costs

Cons
Noisy engines, soft suspensions, and antilock brakes not available as standard

Summary
2007 Kia Sorento is a sports utility that can seat five passengers. It has four doors.

Price
MSRP: US$19,995-US$26,195
Invoice: US$19,050-US$24,370

What is New in 2007 Kia Sorento?
Additions include more safety features, better exteriors and interiors, and powerful engines.

2007 Kia Sorento picture (front view)

2007 Kia Sorento picture (side view)

Introduction
2007 Kia Sorento proves to be a good purchase among small and medium size SUVs. It looks good and is comfortable and well-equipped.

Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options
2007 Kia Sorento is available in five trims ranging from Base to EX 4X4. Options include sunroof, power-adjustable driver seat, steering-wheel audio controls, six-disc CD changer, dual-zone automatic climate control, and auto-dimming rearview mirror.

Powertrains and Performance
2007 Kia Sorento offers standard 262hp 3.8-liter V6 engine with five-speed automatic transmission and overdrive. It delivers 17-mpg in city and 22 to 23-mpg on highway.

Interior Design and Special Features
Improved interiors of 2007 Kia Sorento include metallic and wood trims and leather seats with more comfort. Rear seats fold up to accommodate more cargo space.

Safety Features
Safety measures include standard antilock disc brakes, full-length side curtain airbags, tire-pressure monitoring system, stability and traction control, and driver knee airbag.

Driving Impressions
Powerful engines, better steering, increased acceleration, and supple suspension offer a comfortable ride on 2007 Kia Sorento. Body roll is minimal around corners.

Pros
Good quality materials and many useful features

Cons
Rough ride and average fuel economy

Summary
2007 Kia Sedona is a passenger minivan that can seat seven passengers. It has four doors.

Price
MSRP: US$20,695-US$26,195
Invoice: US$19,895-US$24,265

What is New in 2007 Kia Sedona?
Changes to 2007 Kia Sedona include short-wheelbase model, engines with increased power, and better maneuverable vehicles.

2007 Kia Sedona picture 1

2007 Kia Sedona picture 2

Introduction
2007 Kia Sedona proves to be an affordable and practical minivan. There are few shortcomings though, which you can try to overcome.

Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options
2007 Kia Sedona is available in three trims ranging from Base SWB to EX LWB. Options include leather-wrapped steering wheel, power front seats, rear DVD entertainment system, dual power-sliding doors, adjustable pedals, power liftgate, sunroof, and leather upholstery.

Powertrains and Performance
2007 Kia Sedona offers standard 250hp 3.8-liter V6 engine with five-speed automatic transmission and overdrive. It delivers 18-mpg in city and 25-mpg on highway.

Interior Design and Special Features
Interiors are simple and comfortable. Controls are functional and easy to operate. Padded armrests, comfortable seating, lots of storage spaces, and split-folding third-row seats offer easy hauling and storing of cargo and increased passengers.

Safety Features
Safety measures include standard full-length side curtain air bags, front seat-mounted side air bags, antilock brakes with brake assist, front active headrests, tire-pressure monitoring system, traction and stability control, and optional adjustable pedals and rear backup sensors.

Driving Impressions
Offers smooth and comfortable ride. Steering and handling require improvements. Overall offers competent ride.

Pros
Powerful engines, quiet ride, and long warranty coverage

Cons
Interior material quality poor

Summary
2007 Kia Rondo is a passenger wagon that can seat seven passengers. It has four doors.

Price
MSRP: US$16,395-US$20,195
Invoice: US$15,625-US$18,895

What is New in 2007 Kia Rondo?
2007 Kia Rondo is a completely new vehicle. Although a passenger wagon, features are similar to sporty crossover vehicle.

Introduction
2007 Kia Rondo is among very few of its kind. It offers immense versatility and good value for money.

2007 Kia Rondo picture (front view)

2007 Kia Rondo picture (side view)

Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options
2007 Kia Rondo is available in five trims ranging from Base to EX V6. Options include special packages like leather package, convenience package, and premium package, cruise control, remote entry, sunroof, and steering-wheel-mounted controls.

Powertrains and Performance
2007 Kia Rondo offers standard 182hp 2.7-liter V6 engine with five-speed automatic transmission and overdrive or 162hp 2.4-liter I4 engine with four-speed automatic transmission and overdrive. It delivers 20 to 21-mpg in city and 27 to 29-mpg on highway.

Interior Design and Special Features
Interiors are very flexible. You can fold second-row split seats into floor and third row-seats completely. This allows increased cargo space for hauling and storage. Third-row seats suit only children.

Safety Features
Standard safety features include side-curtain airbags for all three rows, front-seat mounted airbags, electronic stability control, tire-pressure monitoring system, and antilock disc brakes.

Driving Impressions
Smooth acceleration and quick steering offers quiet ride. At corners, there is excessive body roll. Engines require more power.

Pros
Choice of engines and long warranty coverage

Cons
Unimpressive performance and third-row seats uncomfortable

Summary
2007 Kia Rio5 is a passenger wagon that can seat five people. It has four doors.

Price
MSRP: US$13,750
Invoice: US$13,045

What is New in 2007 Kia Rio5?
There are few changes to 2007 Kia Rio5 except for illuminated ignition switch, wheel designs, and new sports version.

2007 Kia Rio5 picture (front view)

2007 Kia Rio5 picture (side view)

Introduction
Although it is a small car, it has numerous attractive and interesting features. It offers pleasant driving experience.

Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options
2007 Kia Rio5 is available in a single trim only of SX. Options include leather-wrapped steering wheel, tilt steering wheel, keyless entry, air-conditioning, and CD player.

Powertrains and Performance
2007 Kia Rio5 offers standard 110hp 1.6-liter I4 engine with five-speed manual transmission and overdrive. Four-speed automatic transmission with overdrive is optional. It delivers 32-mpg in city and 35-mpg on highway.

Interior Design and Special Features
Interiors are airy and spacious. Seats could prove uncomfortable for tall drivers. Driver has a foldable armrest. Few controls are of plastic.

Safety Features
Standard safety features include full-length side curtain air bags, front-seat side air bags, and three-point belts in all seating positions. Antilock disc brakes are optional while adjustable rear headrests are available in select models.

Driving Impressions
Smooth gear changes and precise clutch offers smooth, stable, and quiet ride. Accurate steering and predictable body roll helps turn around corners easily.

Pros
Attractive interiors and smooth ride

Cons
Front seats uncomfortable, cruise control unavailable