99 sephia

[96babylude]

Hi, i currently own 3 hondas but am taking a kia off a friends hands for a grand...However, when i start it, the engine ticks fast. The check engine light comes on and it cant be shifted out of gear without putting something in that little hole (the security device next to the shift...auto)... Any advise? i know i know, why am i buying this? it has air, and its a nice car, but cuz we are just familiar with hondas, we need some kia advise on what to do next.

Much appreciated...

[MeettheCreeper]

Originally Posted by 96babylude

Hi, i currently own 3 hondas but am taking a kia off a friends hands for a grand...However, when i start it, the engine ticks fast. The check engine light comes on and it cant be shifted out of gear without putting something in that little hole (the security device next to the shift...auto)... Any advise? i know i know, why am i buying this? it has air, and its a nice car, but cuz we are just familiar with hondas, we need some kia advise on what to do next.

Much appreciated...

Engine ticking could be lifter noise or a list of other things. Check engine light comes on for 600 plus different reasons.

The reason it wont come out of gear is the interlock is not functioning. This could be caused by a failed brake lamp switch or there could be soda pop spilled down into the shifter that when it becomes a hard syrup like substance will not allow the interlock to release.

[96babylude]

thank you for that info..i will take a look at it. in order to look to see if there is pop down there, i can take off the console and check that right?

[MeettheCreeper]

Originally Posted by 96babylude

thank you for that info..i will take a look at it. in order to look to see if there is pop down there, i can take off the console and check that right?

Pull the ashtray there is one phillips head screw that has to be removed and then carefully pry the cover off the shifter behind the gear shift lever.

If there is soda spilled down in there you will be able to see it with a flashlight. Its quite a common issue I see here at the dealer. Its also disgusting what you will find in there so I recommend wearing rubber gloves if you change out the gear selector.

I have never been able to sucessfully clean it properly to return it to full service.

[96babylude]

ewe! lol ok, i will definately wear protective gear..lol is there anywhere we can visit to get more information since i know your probably not on this site 24/7. we just would like to get it going and emissioned...we arent really familiar with kia's so we need a little bit more backround. i know they are the crappiest cars....especially comparing to a honda... but its also to help a friend...if we decide not to keep it, we can sell it as well.. your awesome for taking the time to let me know that...thank you again

[MeettheCreeper]

Not sure where to find much more information than what I could give you without a service manual. I would try search engines specific to what you are looking for is the best I could tell you.

The early models (previous 2000) are pretty problematic but no more than most cars I believe.

The late model Kias are built by Hyundai and are of very high quality. Almost like Maytag washing machines