HI there,

I have a 1997 Kia Sportage that is having some problems and I was wondering if someone could shine a light on what's going on. I was told that it could be the timing belt. It takes awhile for it to accelerate above 30. And it bogs down when going slower, the idle goes up real high and so does the heat sensor. It's ready for an oil change, could that be it or does it sound more serious? Also, it seems that the heater is only blowing hot air while accelerating. Other times the air is cold. WTH?

Are you saying the engine is overheating? If so, the aluminum head may be warped, valves damaged, and head gasket blown. This would account for the high idle speed, heat, and poor performance. Repairs can run around $2,500.

I don't know if the engine is overheating. I don't know much about cars. What would be happening if that was the case?

The temperature gauge would go real high. You might also see steam and lose coolant.

My car overheated and stalled today. It was the Radiator. Getting it fixed this week. YAY!