Hello!
The symptoms you describe could be caused by a number of different things; ranging from a faulty throttle position sensor, to an intermittent ignition system problem, fuel delivery problem, injector leakage, crank position sensor fault, internal ECM problem, etc...
The place I would start with in trying to diagnose this failure is to have the vehicle taken in to the Kia dealer. There is a recall out on this particular model for correction of poor electrical connections in the wiring harness for the engine control system. The fault covered under this recall can produce exactly the symptoms you are describing, including a no-starrt condition. Since the repair covered under the recall is free of charge at any Kia dealer service department, and the symptoms produced by this fault match the symptoms you are experiencing, the logical thing to do is to have the recall service performed before proceeding any further with trying to diagnose this intermittent problem. This recall may very well correct the problems you are experiencing.
Here is a partial copy of the TSB describing the recall:
_____________________________________
VOLUME2
GROUP
Campaign
NUMBER
014
MODEL
Sportage
DATE
February 2000
SUBJECT:
Safety Recall: Engine Wire Harness C123/C124 Connectors
This bulletin provides information related to a recall on 1997-1999 Sportage models for a potential stalling condition. Some 1997, 1998, and 1999 Sportage models may have poor pin terminal contact in engine/injector harness C123/C124 connectors. Poor pin terminal contact in these connectors could result in interrupted sensor/component signals to and from the ecm. If poor pin terminal contact occurs, the engine could stall which could cause a loss of vehicle power and result in an accident.
To correct this situation, Kia is recalling affected 1997-1999 Sportage models to tighten C123/0124 pin terminals, apply Stabilant 22A(R) to the terminals, and install spring clips on the connectors to hold the connector halves tightly together
In addition, the S116 sensor splice in the injector harness will be soldered to ensure maximum sensor circuit integrity
NOTICE There is no charge to the customer for this repair. Under applicable law, you may not sell or otherwise deliver any affected 1997-1999 Sportage until it has been repaired, pursuant to the procedures set forth in this bulletin
AFFECTED PRODUCTION RANGE:
1997, 1998, and 1999 Sportage models produced from August 29, 1996 to February 1, 1999.
___________________________________
I hope this is helpful to you; if so, please click my accept button! Thanks!
