A few problems with a '98 Kia Sephia, need some advice?

[Taylor]

I have a '98 Kia Sephia that I inherited from my grandfather when he passed. I've been driving it around for a few months now, and it's a great little car, there's just a few problems.

1. It won't start right away all the time. Usually it takes a few times to get it started and I have to press on the gas to "pump" the engine. It's better at starting when there's a good amount of gas.
2. It shakes violently when I stop at a stoplight or a stop sign, shakes minimally when in park, but doesn't shake at all when I put it in neutral.

What could these problems be? Should I just bring it in for an engine diagnostic? Has anyone else had similar problems and how much did it cost you?

I've really become attached to the car and don't want to get a new one if these problems are easily fixed. Thanks so much!

[bobweb]

Look up the Kia maintenance information in your car's owner's manual for your mileage. You are probably due for a new set of spark plugs and they may install new spark plug wires. You also may need a new fuel and air filter. All the fluids should be changed per the maintenance schedule in your owner's manual (engine and transmission oil, engine coolant). Unfortunately you may have an "interference" type engine that requires a timing belt replacement (see your manual) to prevent engine damage. So you may be in store for about $1,000 of maintenance costs that are overdue on the car.

[regerugged]

You need a diagnostic evaluation. Shaking and hard starting might only mean it is overdue for a tune up.

[the mysterious stranger]

sounds like it only needs to idle just a little bit quicker and a good mechanic should do this for free and with a smile on his face.