2018 Kia Niro problems
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.
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Common 2018 Kia Niro problems
Kia Niro 2018: Common Problems and Complaints from Owners
The Kia Niro, a compact crossover SUV, has been known for its blend of fuel efficiency and practicality. However, as with any vehicle, there have been some reported issues by owners of the 2018 Kia Niro.
- Door Handle Broke Off
The most reported problem among 2018 Kia Niro owners is the door handle breaking off from the door. This issue has been reported by multiple owners, with the passenger side door handle being the most commonly affected. The cause of this problem is not explicitly stated in the search results, but it appears to be a design or manufacturing flaw.
- Locking Mechanism Failure
Another issue reported by 2018 Kia Niro owners is the failure of the locking mechanism in the doors and the trunk. This problem has been reported to affect both the driver and front passenger doors, as well as the trunk latch release. The cause of this issue is not explicitly mentioned, but it seems to be a problem with the locking mechanism's durability or design.
- Transmission Issues
Some Kia Niro owners have reported transmission problems, such as rough shifting, delayed shifting, and slipping. These issues can be caused by various factors, including wear and tear, manufacturing defects, or improper maintenance.
- Potential Electrical Relay Overheating
On some Niros built between November 2016 and September 2017, there's a possible risk of an electrical relay overheating. This issue is not explicitly stated to affect the 2018 Kia Niro, but it is still worth noting, as it could potentially affect 2018 models as well. If the relay overheats, it could cause heat damage in the surrounding area and, in extreme circumstances, lead to a potential fire.
- 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. This issue can cause damage to the oil seal, allowing oil to seep out or, in extreme circumstances, cause a short circuit and a potential fire. Again, while this issue is not explicitly stated to affect the 2018 Kia Niro, it is still worth noting.
It is important to remember that not all 2018 Kia Niro vehicles will experience these problems. However, these issues have been reported by some owners, and potential buyers should be aware of them. Regular maintenance and inspections can help prevent or detect these issues early on, potentially saving owners from more significant problems down the road.
What are the most common problems with the Kia Niro?
Kia Niro – most commonly reported problems and issues
- Transmission. Some Kia Niro owners have had transmission problems, such as rough shifting, delayed shifting, and slipping – that in some cases – the transmission failed.
- Electrical features. ...
- Brakes. ...
- Fuel system. ...
- Suspension. ...
- Fuel efficiency. ...
- Spacious interior. ...
- Tech features.
What is the engine issue on the 2018 Kia Niro?
Over 120,000 vehicles are affected by the recall: 2017-2022 Kia Niro and 2018-2022 Kia Niro Plug-in Hybrids. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, fluid may leak into the printed circuit board inside the hydraulic clutch actuator, which can result in an engine compartment fire.
Are there any recalls on a 2018 Kia Niro?
2017- 2022 Niro and 2018-2022 Niro Plug-in hybrid vehicles are being recalled. There have been no reported vehicle fires. The recall is the Korean automaker's latest for issues related to potential fire risks. In March this year, Hyundai and Kia recalled over 500,000 SUVs and minivans in the US due to fire risks.
What are the disadvantages of the Kia Niro?
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.
2018 Kia Niro complaints
The NHTSA has received 0 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2018 Kia Niro.
You can leave your car complaint via the special form below.
2018 Kia Niro recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 3 recalls for different components of the 2018 Kia Niro.
- 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.
- Manufacturer: Kia America, Inc.
- Components: HYBRID PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2017-2018 Kia Niro hybrid electric vehicles previously recalled under recall 18V-666. The Main Relay within the Power Relay Assembly (PRA) may have inadequate connections between its contacts, causing increased electrical resistance, which can overheat the rear seats.
- Consequence: Overheated rear seats increase the risk of a fire.
- Remedy: Dealers will inspect the PRA and replace either the PRA or the Main Relay, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 9, 2023. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC256. This recall supersedes NHTSA recall number 18V-666. Vehicles already repaired under the previous recall will need to have the new remedy completed.
- Manufacturer: Kia Motors America
- Components: HYBRID PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2017-2018 Kia Niro hybrid electric vehicles. The Main Relay within the Power Relay Assembly (PRA) may have inadequate connections between its contacts, causing increased electrical resistance.
- Consequence: The increased electrical resistance can overheat the rear seat which is above the PRA, increasing the risk of a fire.
- Remedy: Kia will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the Power Relay Assembly (PRA) for damage. If no damage is found, the main relay will be replaced. If damage is found, the PRA will be replaced. These repairs will be performed free of charge. The recall began November 23, 2018. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC168.
Negative 2018 Kia Niro car reviews
Positive 2018 Kia Niro car reviews
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We have only put on 1000 miles to date. Kia has done an excellent job with the car, providing great comfort and impressive gas mileage. The headlights are particularly impressive, providing excellent visibility both ahead and at the sides of the roadway. The back-up camera is also noteworthy, performing well both during the day and at night. My wife feels much more confident changing lanes with the 'blind spot' feature. This is our second Kia and we are thrilled with it.
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We traded in our old car for a 2014 Black Soul and we couldn't be happier! The car handles and drives above expectations. I'm used to the quirks of a hybrid since I drive a Hybrid Optima, but my wife, who drives the Niro, is still getting used to it. The brakes may seem soft to new drivers, but they will stop you with surprising responsiveness. Cold weather driving will reduce your mileage, as the car has to run the gas engine to keep you warm. The warmer you want to be, the lower your mileage will be. For example, if you normally get 50mpg in hot weather, expect a 5mpg drop in cold weather, and up to a 7mpg drop if you really want to be warm. Of course, this all depends on how cold it is, how long you drive, and how you drive. Comfort is a top priority in the Niro, making long trips a breeze. The back seat is comfy and passengers can relax and enjoy the ride. Noise is minimal, allowing for easy conversation between passengers. If you like to load up and carry everything, you'll find plenty of space to do just that. Overall, I would definitely buy another Niro if I were in the market for a new car. I hope this review helps!
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Not every car is suitable for everyone, but I found this car to be a great fit for my needs. I recently traded in my Chevy Traverse for this car, as I realized that I prefer smaller cars. The back seat is incredibly spacious, with plenty of headroom, which is perfect for my tall child. Additionally, the price was very reasonable. I opted for the Touring model, which has slightly lower mileage than the other models, but I find that it drives well, is easy to handle, and easy to park, especially in the city. Recently, we took a long road trip from WA to Idaho and Yellowstone for the eclipse, and I spent most of the trip in the back seat, which was very comfortable. The car handled well over several mountain passes. While I am still getting used to the keyless entry/start, which is not my favorite feature, my husband loves driving the car too. Overall, I highly recommend this car.
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Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I wanted to share my experience with the KIA Soul and the Niro. We bought the KIA Soul in 2014 and it was definitely worth the price. It was extremely reliable and we put 140,000 miles on it with no problems. That's why we decided to purchase our next vehicle from KIA and we were not disappointed. The Niro is an amazing value for its price and has so many features that you would normally find in cars/suvs that cost over $35,000. Plus, the MPG is exceptional! We've been getting 50 mpg which is quite astonishing. The Niro is basically the same size as the KIA Soul, so it's perfect for someone like me who is 6'4 and can fit comfortably in both the front and back. The only downside is the acceleration, which feels like a 4 cylinder. However, if you don't have a heavy foot, this car will do just fine. We're planning on getting another vehicle in about 6 months, and it's definitely going to be another KIA. Thanks for reading!
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I really love my Niro FE! I chose this model because I don't need all the fancy extras and I'm perfectly happy with the basics that KIA provides. I was pleasantly surprised by the technology in this model, especially since my 2001 Ram still has a cassette player. The MPG is fantastic and I love showing off my $20 fill-up to my friends who still spend over $45 each time. With normal driving to and from work, I only need to fill up once a month, which is a huge improvement from my truck that required filling up once a week at around $60 each time. The handling is great and I haven't had any issues with acceleration or braking.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2018 Kia Niro problems:
Kia Niro Issues | Kia Niro Forum
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.
2018 Kia Niro Problems | Kelley Blue Book
How reliable is the 2018 Kia Niro? See the most common repairs performed and learn if your vehicle is at risk for major repairs in the next 12 months.
Problems I have had so far on my 2018 Niro Touring Which was ...
Jul 19, 2020 ... Welcome to the Kia Niro forum! We discuss all models of the Niro, including the Hybrid, PHEV and EV versions. We are glad you stopped by. Feel ...
How reliable is your car? : r/KiaNiro
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 ...
2018 Kia Niro Plug-In Hybrid Consumer Reviews | Cars.com
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.
Other years of Kia Niro
Are you having problems with your 2018 Kia Niro?
Johan Murazik 2024-09-13
For our 20th anniversary, I surprised my wife with a brand new Niro that had only 51 miles on it. She loved the car because it was fuel-efficient and had plenty of room. During the Memorial Day weekend, we decided to take it for a spin and were thrilled to see that it averaged 50 miles per gallon. However, a few miles from our house, we encountered some issues with the hybrid system warning, ready indicator blinking, malfunction indicator, charging system, and A/C. Unfortunately, the service department was closed due to the holiday, but we took it in the next day. Although they couldn't tell us exactly what was wrong with the car, they gave us a small Hyundai to use in the meantime. They informed us that an engineer would be coming to see the car and figure out what went wrong. It's frustrating that this happened to a brand new car with only 620 miles on it, but we're hopeful that the issue will be resolved soon.
Hilario Cummerata 2024-07-02
Hello Kia, I hope this message finds you well. I wanted to bring to your attention an issue I've been experiencing with my 2018 Niro (VIN #: KND.....6317) that I purchased on May 15, 2018. Unfortunately, one of the hard plastic anchors of the cargo net broke just three weeks into my purchase, with the car barely reaching 500 miles. I noticed that this issue was also mentioned in the 2017 Niro Edmunds consumer review, and I was hoping that it had been resolved. However, after reaching out to both the Kia dealership in Fremont, CA and the Kia Consumer Assistance Center (800-333-4542) over the last four months, I have yet to receive a response or any assistance. While I understand that this may seem like a small issue in the grand scheme of things, it does raise concerns about the reliability of Kia's products and their commitment to their 10-year, 100,000-mile drive train warranty. I would greatly appreciate any assistance you can provide in resolving this matter. Thank you for your time and attention. Best regards, Ron.
Howell Mills 2024-05-20
I had to trade my car after only a month of owning it due to a major issue with my Kia Niro. Within the first few weeks of owning it, I noticed a very strong gasoline and burning plastic smell in the cabin of the car. At first, I thought it might have been something I spilled, but it turned out to be coming out of the vents each time I ran the AC or heat, no matter what setting I had it on. The smells made me feel completely nauseous and sick, and I had to put the windows down to feel better. Although the dealership said nothing was wrong with the car, I was worried because other Kia models have had fires. Additionally, there were other issues with the car, such as lack of power and jerky acceleration, as well as broken passenger door handles with only 1000 miles on the car. I ended up trading it in for a 2019 Buick Encore, which has been a wonderful vehicle for me in the past 3 months. If you're considering a Kia Niro, you might want to wait until they fix all the bugs.
Blair Terry 2024-05-13
Hi there, I hope you're doing well. I wanted to share my experience with my recent KIA purchase. Shortly after buying the car, I noticed a distortion in the windshield on the passenger side that was right in my line-of-sight. I took it back to the dealer multiple times, but unfortunately, the issue wasn't resolved. The staff acknowledged the defect, but their report stated that there was no problem. They suggested that I take it to another dealer, and the next one offered to replace it if it was the worst among several on the lot. I then took the vehicle to Safelite, and the manager said it was one of the worst he had ever seen. He mentioned that they had a bad run of windshields. By the way, a new windshield starts at $700. I'm now at the stage of writing to the head of KIA before going to the State Attorney General. I'm disappointed that KIA hasn't stood behind their product, especially since I traded in my 2012 KIA Soul for this car. Thank you for listening to my experience.
Montana Johnston 2024-03-05
This car is not suitable for those who plan on driving more than 10k miles in the first year or for long distance commutes. While it is comfortable for short commutes and has ample cargo space, it lacks lumbar support in the seats and is not ideal for long drives. The car has had several issues, including idling and driving poorly, shaking violently, and the engine blowing up. Although the engine was replaced, there were still issues related to the engine and the bottom of the car tore off when hitting a puddle of water. The air conditioner also stopped working and there was a seal leak in the air compressor. Overall, this car is not reliable and may not be worth the investment.I have owned the car for exactly 23 months and was informed that the compressor needs to be replaced, which would cost over $2k. The dealers suggested that I trade in the car for a new one, but I declined as I received an appraisal offer of only $10k for a car that I paid well over $20k for and have owned for less than two years. Despite my love for the Kia Soul, I have been informed that hybrids are not popular and Kia cars do not resell well. I refuse to be in debt for a car that is not worth it. I advise you to avoid this car at all costs.