There are no safety recalls for the 2006 Kia Spectra5, but owners have filed 18 complaints with NHTSA.
2006 Kia Spectra5 problems reported by owners
| Problem area | Reports | |
|---|
| Air Bags | 13 | |
| Seats | 2 | |
| Vehicle Speed Control | 1 | |
| Visibility | 1 | |
| Structure | 1 | |
| Fuel/Propulsion System | 1 | |
| Service Brakes | 1 | |
| Seat Belts | 1 | |
| Electrical System | 1 | |
| Steering | 1 | |
Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 89,000 miles (median of owner reports).
Problems that are not covered by a recall are paid repairs; labor rates follow local mechanic pay — see what auto mechanics earn in each state.
Recent 2006 Kia Spectra5 complaints
Owner reports filed with NHTSA, as written (personal details removed). Complaints are not verified by NHTSA.
Air Bags · at 144,000 miles · reported Jul 19, 2017
We have had no accidents, but the mat sensor in the passenger sensor has gone bad causing the air bag light on the dash to stay on. The dealer was able to determine this by getting a b1448 code when diagnosing the issue. Many others have complained of this same issue with this and other kia vehicles. The part is prohibitively expensive at approximately $1600 for parts and labor.
Air Bags · reported Jun 3, 2017
Air bag light illuminated and was told by mechanic the sensor was faulty and it's around 2000$ to fix. Will not pass inspection without repair. Started around 60,000 miles. This is ridiculous, other kia models have been recalled. What can anyone do?
Steering · at 89,000 miles · reported Nov 16, 2016
Steering continually knocked after multiple repairs I still had a knock in my steering wheel during turns and going and an audible one outside all axles and suspension was deemed fine. I ended up selling the car since it was an annoyance. The passenger seat air bag sensor did not work properly it would flash a light on the hud for hours only when someone sat in it. The car also had very loose steering and was very unsafe on the freeway
Air Bags · at 90,000 miles · reported Aug 2, 2014
Just as others with my same vehicle have stated, the airbag light on the dashboard comes on and off and is a real safety concern.
Air Bags · at 99,788 miles · reported May 24, 2014
Air bag indicator light on dash board will not go off most times, even when a 125 pound passenger is in seat. Occasionally driver side seat belt alarm will not chime. Had mechanic check wiring, he replaced alternator,battery still the same. Kenwood stereo will not tune in from time to time, even when in my same parking space also as we are driving with shifter locked into drive, the engine seems to change gears on flat road surface as if it is in 3rd gear then goes into drive. There is nothing else I can do. Already had mechanic look at these problems. No codes are showing up, but obviously…
Frequently asked questions
Does the 2006 Kia Spectra5 have any recalls?
No. NHTSA has no safety recalls for the 2006 Kia Spectra5 as of this update. Check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls for the latest status.
What is the most common problem with the 2006 Kia Spectra5?
Owners report air bags problems most often (13 reports), followed by seats (2). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 89,000 miles.
Are Kia recall repairs free?
Yes. Safety recall repairs are free at authorized Kia dealers, whether you are the first owner or bought the car used.