2000 KIA SPORTAGE User Comment / Complaint

Tl contact owns a 2000 kia sportage. while driving 25 mph, the contact smelled gas coming from the vehicle; however, the odor intensified when the vehicle was parked. a private mechanic examined the vehicle and found that the fuel tank was corroded, causing gas to leak from two holes. the mechanic stated that the shield was placed on the vehicle before the fuel tank was dried, which caused water to sit on the tank and corrode. the dealer stated that the fuel tank needed to be replaced at the cost of $472.13. the dealer and manufacturer confirmed that the vin was not included in recall number sc059 and would not be able to provide assistance. the dealer information was unavailable. the current mileage was 127,000 and failure mileage was 126,000.