2018 Kia Niro phev problems

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The Kia Niro (Korean: 기아 니로) is a compact crossover SUV (C-segment) manufactured by Kia since 2016. It is an electrification-focused vehicle, offering three versions: hybrid, plug-in hybrid and battery electric variants.

First generation (DE; 2016)

The first-generation Niro was introduced in 2016. Based on the same platform as the Hyundai Ioniq, Kia opted to use dual-clutch transmission instead of the more traditional continuously variable transmission found in most other hybrids to offer a more engaging driving experience.

The size is between the Stonic and Sportage, and very close to the XCeed. In Europe, the Niro was launched in a choice of seven colours and either 16- or 18-inch wheels. It was the first Kia model to feature Android Auto, available from its launch, while Apple CarPlay was made available towards the end of 2016. Seven airbags were included as standard, along with other safety features including autonomous braking, smart cruise control and lane departure warning to name a few. Noise reduction was a key development focus, with Kia achieving a quieter cabin by use of increased front structure insulation and the use of acoustic windshield glass.

Full production started in May 2016 in Hwaseong, Gyeonggi, South Korea, with European sales from the third quarter of 2016.

A plug-in version was launched in the United Kingdom in the end of 2017, and in the United States in the beginning of 2018, with an electric version launched in 2018. Towards the end of 2018 and start of 2019, sales of the Niro PHEV ranked highly in Denmark and Sweden in a list of top plug-in car sales.

The Niro received a facelift in 2019 which included changes to the front and rear bumpers, as well as new headlights and color choices. Unlike the prototypes, no production version was ever offered with four wheel drive.

2018 Kia Niro phev

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Common 2018 Kia Niro phev problems

The 2018 Kia Niro PHEV has been reported to have several common problems based on complaints from owners. Here are some of the issues that have been noted:

  • Burrs in the hydraulic clutch actuator housing: Burrs produced during the manufacturing process have been found in the hydraulic actuator housings of some Niros produced between 1 November 2016 and 11 September 2017. The burrs can damage the oil seal and allow oil to seep out or, in extreme circumstances, cause a short circuit and a potential fire. A warning light may appear on the dashboard showing that there is a fault with the system.
  • Issues with the charging system, engine oil pressure, and malfunction lights: Some owners have reported that their 2018 Kia Niro PHEVs have issues with the charging system, engine oil pressure, and malfunction lights. These issues can prevent the car from driving, even if the EV battery is fully charged.
  • Windows, locks, and latches: Some owners have reported issues with the windows, locks, and latches of their 2018 Kia Niro PHEVs. For example, the outside locks for the doors have become inoperable because they have disintegrated and cracked. This has happened to all of the door locks, as well as the back trunk/hood latch release. The only way to currently unlock the doors from outside the car is to use the keyfob, and duct tape has been used to hold the trunk lock in place.
  • Engine problems: The 2018 Kia Niro PHEV has 5 NHTSA complaints for the engine at an average of 4848 miles. These complaints are spread across multiple and redundant categories, and are not organized by problem. The only way to find out what problems are occurring is to read through the comments below.

In general, the 2018 Kia Niro PHEV has been reported to be a reliable car, with not a single owner reporting a fault with their car in a 2023 survey. Kia also performed well in a list of the most reliable used car brands, with a fifth place finish by virtue of a 89.6% score. However, it's important for potential buyers to be aware of these common problems and to have a good poke around to see that everything works before purchasing a used Kia Niro PHEV.

2018 Kia Niro phev engine

What are the issues with Kia Niro PHEV?

Problems with the Kira Niro Engine

Contaminants in the fluid can affect the circuit board responsible for communicating with the 6-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. If this circuit board in the hydraulic clutch actuator gets contaminated, it can short-circuit, potentially leading to a fire hazard.

Are there any recalls on the Kia Niro PHEV?

(Kia) is recalling certain 2017-2022 Niro and 2018-2022 Niro Plug-in Hybrid vehicles. Fluid may leak into the printed circuit board inside the hydraulic clutch actuator, which can result in an engine compartment fire.

What are the disadvantages of the Kia Niro hybrid?

While the Niro's electric efficiency and stylish design are definite advantages, there are also some drawbacks to consider, such as slow charging speed, limited cargo space, and a less powerful engine than some of its competitors.

How many miles can a Kia Niro PHEV go on battery?

33

But an 11.1-kWh battery pack stores enough energy for an EPA-estimated 33 all-electric miles on a full charge.

2018 Kia Niro phev complaints

The NHTSA has received 0 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2018 Kia Niro phev.

You can leave your car complaint via the special form below.

2018 Kia Niro phev recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 2018 Kia Niro phev.

2023-07-31
  • Manufacturer: Kia America, Inc.
  • Components: POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:INTERNAL:CLUTCHES/BANDS:ACTUATORS/SOLENOIDS
  • Summary: Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2017-2022 Niro and 2018-2022 Niro Plug-in Hybrid vehicles. Fluid may leak into the printed circuit board inside the hydraulic clutch actuator, which can result in an engine compartment fire.
  • Consequence: A fire increases the risk of injury.
  • Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace the hydraulic clutch actuator as necessary and install a new fuse, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 29, 2023. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC276.
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Additional sources

More sources of information about 2018 Kia Niro phev problems:

Kia Niro Issues | Kia Niro Forum
Kia Niro Issues | Kia Niro Forum
https://www.kianiroforum.com/threads/kia-niro-issues.9781/

Sep 12, 2021 ... Our 2018 Niro PHEV has been reliable and we like it. Our only issue has been a problem with the uvo, which required replacing the head unit.

How reliable is your car? : r/KiaNiro
How reliable is your car? : r/KiaNiro
https://www.reddit.com/r/KiaNiro/comments/13hqbap/how_reliable_is_your_car/

May 14, 2023 ... ... 2018 Kia Niro. We didn't like the 2018 Priuses we test drove. Never had a problem with the Niro, until we smooshed it! Just replaced it with ...

% problem issues much higher than other hybrids? | Kia Niro Forum
% problem issues much higher than other hybrids? | Kia Niro Forum
https://www.kianiroforum.com/threads/problem-issues-much-higher-than-other-hybrids.8840/

Jan 15, 2020 ... I am considering buying a 2020 Plug In Hybrid Niro this year. My wife has fallen in love with the car. However lingering on this forum has me ...

2018 Kia Niro Plug-In Hybrid Consumer Reviews | Cars.com
2018 Kia Niro Plug-In Hybrid Consumer Reviews | Cars.com
https://www.cars.com/research/kia-niro_plug_in_hybrid-2018/consumer-reviews/

There have been transmission problems reported with this model. Mine was actually bought back by Kia from the original owner because of a transmission problem.

2018 Kia Niro Plug-in Hybrid Problems | Kelley Blue Book
2018 Kia Niro Plug-in Hybrid Problems | Kelley Blue Book
https://www.kbb.com/kia/niro-plug-in-hybrid/2018/common-problems/

How reliable is the 2018 Kia Niro Plug-in Hybrid? See the most common repairs performed and learn if your vehicle is at risk for major repairs in the next ...

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