Topic: 2005 Kia Spectra

[42moe]

Anyone have the 5 speed manual transmission? I don't like the clutch at all. I find it very mushy. I have been driving standard transmission cars for 30 years. I have never stalled a car as regularly as this one. It also won't shift very smoothly. I also have a slight vibration in the front end,. The dealer said it was my tires but I've had them rebalanced twice and still a slight vibration. I see a recall on the Government of Canada Transport site for steering racks but I have never received a notice.

[initial_D]

No. 

[dr_spock]

Are you talking about this recall on Kia Spectra steering tie rods?

http://www.tc.gc.ca/roadsafety/recalls/recall_e.asp?recno=13326&

Make:   KIA
Model:   SPECTRA
Affected Year(s):   2005
Units Affected:   271
   
TC Recall #:   2005159
Manufacturer:   
Campaign Code:   
Recall Details
On certain vehicles, the steering tie rods may have a manufacturing flaw that affects the metallurgy. When subjected to stresses that arise in the normal operation of the vehicle, it is possible that a section of the steering tie rod may crack or fail, impairing steering ability. In certain conditions, this could lead to a loss of steering control which could result in a crash. Correction: Kia Canada Inc. will replace the steering rack assembly on all affected vehicles at the port of entry prior to distribution to dealers.

[gottarondo]

You might find more Spectra owners for comparative experiences with the transmission here:
http://www.kia-forums.com/

[Trainman]

As for the clutch/trannie, is this new or has it been like this since you bought the car?

If it has developed since you got the car, maybe get the dealer to check it out.  Get them to compare it to another similar car.

If it has been like this since you bought it, was the one you tested the same?  If so, then probably not much that can be done, you knew what you where getting when you bought it.