The 2002 Kia Spectra is a compact car that came with a 1.8L 4-cyl engine. At 24 years old, many are reaching the point where repairs cost more than the car is worth. Running or not, we'll make you an offer and tow it away for free.
| Body style | Compact Cars |
|---|---|
| Engines | 1.8L 4-cyl |
| Transmissions | Automatic 4-spd, Manual 5-spd |
| Drive | Front-Wheel Drive |
| Fuel | Regular Gasoline |
| Fuel economy | 19–21 city / 27–29 highway / 22–24 combined MPG |
| EPA annual fuel cost | $2,800–$3,050 a year (EPA estimate at current fuel prices, 15,000 miles) |
| Tailpipe CO₂ | 370–404 grams per mile |
| Versions tested by EPA | 2 configurations |
| Age | 24 years |
Specs, fuel cost and emissions from the EPA's fueleconomy.gov data. Your car's exact equipment may differ.
NHTSA lists no recalls for the 2002 Kia Spectra. You can confirm with your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Owners have filed 92 complaints about the 2002 Kia Spectra with NHTSA. 25 reports involved a crash and 2 reports involved a fire. Owners reported 19 injuries.
Complaints are reports from owners and aren't verified by NHTSA. One complaint can list several components. Mileage is the median odometer reading owners reported for that component.
Manufacturers have filed 15 technical service bulletins and communications with NHTSA covering the 2002 Kia Spectra. These are repair instructions for known issues, not recalls.
TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: INFORMATION FOR HEADLAMP CONDENSATION AND MOISTURE - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. New/revised sections of
PITSTOP - ENGINE COMPONENT RE-USE GUIDELINES - In general, parts and components removed during engine repairs should be considered serviceable, and should be thoroughly c
TSB: MANDATORY REPLACEMENT OF LOCKING/SECURITY HARDWARE - By design, certain fasteners, which are designed to lock into place once fully attached, are utilized in various
TSB: MANDATORY REPLACEMENT OF LOCKING/SECURITY HARDWARE - By design, certain fasteners utilized in various Kia models are strictly intended for ?one time use?. Though not
Source: NHTSA manufacturer communications (technical service bulletins).
NHTSA opened 1 defect investigation covering the 2002 Kia Spectra.
Rear drum brake wheel cylinder leakage
The office of defects investigation (odi) opened this preliminary evaluation to investigate allegations of rear drum brake wheel cylinder leakage in 2002 Kia Spectra vehicles.this investigation was prompted by Kia?s early warning report to the agency for the first quarter of 2004, which contained a single field report
It depends on its condition, whether major parts like the engine, transmission and catalytic converter are still there, and current scrap and parts prices where you live. Its parts make up much of its value. Enter your ZIP code above for a free offer on your specific car.
Yes. We buy 2002 Spectras that don't start, were in an accident, failed inspection or have a blown engine or transmission. Towing is always free.
Usually the title and a photo ID. Rules differ by state, including what to do with your plates and whether to file a notice of sale. Check our state-by-state car title guides for the official forms.
Data retrieved October 2026.
Get a free offer in minutes. Towing is always free and you get paid at pickup.