A Guide to the Starter for the 2018-2022 Kia Sportage
Is your Sportage struggling to start? It might be time for a new starter.
- A single click with no engine crank is the most common symptom of a failing starter.
- Always check the battery first, as its symptoms can mimic a bad starter.
- The Mando brand is an Original Equipment supplier for Kia, so their aftermarket starter offers OE quality.
- On the popular 2.4L engine, the starter is under the intake manifold, making replacement a more involved job.
Symptoms of a Failing Starter in a 2018-2022 Kia Sportage
A bad starter can have symptoms similar to a weak battery, so it's important to know the difference. The most common sign of a failing starter is a single, sharp "click" sound when you try to start the engine, but the engine doesn't turn over. You might also experience intermittent starting issues, where the car starts fine one day but not the next.
- Clicking Sound: A single click often means the starter solenoid is engaging, but the motor itself isn't turning.
- No Crank, No Start: You press the start button, the dashboard lights turn on, but nothing happens with the engine.
- Whirring or Grinding Noise: A whirring sound without the engine cranking can mean the starter gear isn't engaging with the flywheel. A grinding noise suggests a worn-out gear.
- Intermittent Starting: The car may take several tries to start, and then work fine for the rest of the day. This can be an early sign of starter failure.
- Smoke or Burning Smell: This is a serious symptom indicating an electrical problem with the starter. It could be overheating and requires immediate attention.
First, Check Your Battery
Many starting problems are caused by a weak or dead battery. Before assuming the starter is bad, make sure your battery is fully charged and the terminals are clean and tight.
Choosing a Replacement Starter
When replacing the starter on your Sportage, you have a choice between an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) part from a Kia dealer or an aftermarket part. For this vehicle, the choice is quite straightforward.
OEM vs. Aftermarket (Mando)
The Mando brand is a major global parts supplier that is an Original Equipment (OE) manufacturer for Kia and Hyundai. This means a new aftermarket starter from Mando is the same part that was installed at the factory, ensuring perfect fit, function, and quality. Choosing a Mando starter gives you OE quality without the higher price of buying the part directly from a dealership.
A Note on Recalls and Service Bulletins
As of early 2026, there are no specific recalls or technical service bulletins (TSBs) from Kia or the NHTSA directly related to starter motor failure for the 2018-2022 Sportage. There are TSBs related to software updates for anti-theft systems and battery discharge issues, but these do not concern the starter motor itself.
Replacement Cost
The cost to replace a starter can vary based on your location and whether you do the work yourself or hire a professional. The starter is located under the intake manifold on the 2.4L GDI engine 🎬 Watch this video to see the starter location on your Sportage., which makes replacement more labor-intensive.
| Part/Service | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Starter (Mando) | $214.23 |
| New OEM Starter | $293 - $309 |
| Used OEM Starter | $55 - $75 |
| Shop Labor | $184 - $270 |
| Total Professional Replacement | $459 - $544 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it hard to replace the starter on a 2018-2022 Kia Sportage?
For models with the 2.4L GDI engine, the starter is located underneath the intake manifold, which must be removed for access. This makes the job moderately difficult and may not be suitable for a beginner. 🎬 See a step-by-step guide on how to replace the starter motor. For other engines, access may be simpler, but it still requires disconnecting the battery and working in a tight space.
Could a bad starter relay be the problem?
Yes, a faulty starter relay can cause a no-start condition where the dashboard lights up but the engine doesn't crank. The relay is a small, inexpensive part located in the fuse box. Swapping it with a similar relay (like the one for the rear defogger) is a common diagnostic trick to see if the relay is the issue before replacing the entire starter.
🎬 Learn how to diagnose and fix a faulty starter motor relay.Will a bad starter drain my battery?
Yes, a malfunctioning starter can draw excessive power from the battery, causing it to drain quickly. If you have a new or known-good battery that keeps dying, a faulty starter could be the cause.
What tools are needed to replace the starter?
You will need a good socket set with extensions, wrenches, and potentially tools to remove the intake manifold. It is critical to disconnect the negative battery terminal before beginning any work to prevent electrical shock or damage to the vehicle's electronics.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 36100-2G300RU 36100-2G300
Voltage: 12V, Power: 1.2 kW
We Have This Part in Stock
The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
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