2020 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 2020 Kia Niro problems
Common problems with the Kia Niro 2020, based on complaints from owners, include:
- Hybrid Generator Starter replacement: In some cases, the Hybrid Generator Starter has needed to be replaced, which can also cause issues with the car's acceleration and braking.
- Loose battery plug: A loose battery plug can also cause issues with the car's acceleration and braking, and may require the attention of a mechanic to diagnose and fix.
- Battery monitor replacement: In some instances, a battery monitor has needed to be replaced, which can affect the car's overall performance and battery life.
- Engine starting issues: Some owners have reported issues with the engine starting, including a loud jerking noise when starting from a full stop.
- Transmission problems: Transmission problems have been reported in some 2020 Kia Niros, which can cause issues with acceleration and braking.
- Battery coverage and warranty questions: Some owners have raised questions about the battery coverage and warranty for the 2020 Kia Niro, particularly for the PHEV version.
- Backup rear camera issues: Some owners have reported issues with the backup rear camera, which can affect the car's safety and functionality.
- 12v battery replacement: In some cases, the 12v battery may need to be replaced, particularly in older models.
- Heat exchanger/catalytic converter issues: Some owners have reported issues with the heat exchanger/catalytic converter, which can affect the car's performance and fuel efficiency.
It is important to note that not all 2020 Kia Niros will experience these issues, and many owners have reported positive experiences with the car. However, it is worth being aware of these potential problems and addressing them promptly if they do arise.
Are there any problems with Kia Niro?
Earlier this year, Kia issued a recall for Niro hybrid and plug-in hybrid (Kia Niro PHEV) models due to a potential short circuit that could result in engine fires, as announced by the NHTSA on Monday.
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.
Is Kia Niro good choice?
Road manners are agreeable—if somewhat forgettable—but the Niro feels right at home in urban environments, nailing its mission and earning itself a 2024 Editors' Choice award. If you're looking to go all-electric, Kia also sells a Niro EV; we review that model separately.
Which Kia Niro model is best?
The Kia Niro hybrid (or the pure-electric Kia Niro EV) will be a better option for most private buyers. In terms of trim level, the mid-level Kia Niro 3 strikes us as the sweet spot in the range. The top-spec Kia Niro 4 has some very desirable kit but it's also a lot of money...
2020 Kia Niro complaints
The NHTSA has received 0 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2020 Kia Niro.
You can leave your car complaint via the special form below.
2020 Kia Niro recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 2020 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.
Negative 2020 Kia Niro car reviews
Positive 2020 Kia Niro car reviews
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If you're an experienced hybrid vehicle driver, you'll appreciate how this vehicle handles, brakes, and turns in small spaces. It also provides great gas mileage (40+ mpg) and has a driving range of over 500 miles per tank when you fill up! I personally love its sporty look. However, if you're not a fan of the hybrid-style driving that's required to maintain high mpg, this may not be the vehicle for you. In that case, you may prefer a larger gas-guzzling SUV.
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Awesome vehicle! It has tight gas mileage and amazing performance. I couldn't be happier.
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I'm so glad to hear that you're enjoying your new ride more and more with each drive! And wow, getting 49 mpg is really impressive!
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I have the 2019 EX premium fully loaded. I've had mine brand new for 2 months now and I fill up every 2 weeks. It has everything I want in a vehicle and it's also very safe.
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Your 2020 Kia Niro is a fantastic car! I love how it looks and drives, especially in sport mode where it has lots of power. It's amazing that you get 50 mpg on your 30-mile round trip to work, and an impressive 67 mpg on long highway trips at a steady 70 mph. This car even set a world record for cross country fuel economy, which you can look up yourself! With almost 30k miles, you've had no issues, and the dct transmission is a great feature. It's like having a manual transmission controlled by a computer, and only requires two quarts of dct fluid to service. If you ever have issues with your android auto, it's likely just the USB cable and not the car. And if the infotainment screen goes black and won't come on, don't worry, it's probably just updating via Bluetooth through your phone.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2020 Kia Niro problems:
2020 Kia Niro - So Many Issues : r/KiaNiro
Sep 12, 2023 ... 2020 Niro shut down while driving on the highway, almost causing an accident! r/KiaNiroEV - 2020 Niro shut down while driving on the highway, ...
Common issues with E-niro 2020 | Kia Owners Club Forum
Jan 2, 2024 ... Most of the issues are user induced by sitting in car, without either car turned fully on, or in utility mode. Which means that 12V side is not ...
2020 Kia Niro Problems | Kelley Blue Book
How reliable is the 2020 Kia Niro? See the most common repairs performed and learn if your vehicle is at risk for major repairs in the next 12 months.
What's the worst feature or part of your Niro EV? : r/KiaNiroEV
Jan 28, 2023 ... The wife and I are looking to buy a 2020 Niro ... I am taking delivery of the Kia Niro Ev 23 ... It's a common issue, but I believe there is an easy ...
Kia Niro Issues | Kia Niro Forum
Sep 12, 2021 ... Our 2020 Touring has been perfect so far. I hope my good luck continues. Tom Shirley 2020 Cerulean Blue Touring.
Other years of Kia Niro
Are you having problems with your 2020 Kia Niro?
Darryl Padberg 2024-11-29
I recently reviewed the LX with standard package. While the car is great for city driving, the cargo space is quite small. I was only able to fit 2-24 pack bottled water and 2-24 pack Pepsi, and the rest of my groceries struggled to fit. It may not be the best option for a big grocery run for a family of 5, as even my compact Hyundai Accent has twice the trunk space of the Kia Niro. Additionally, it may not be the best option for Ikea trips, as a compact car would be able to carry much more. The acceleration is also poor in comparison to other SUVs of the same size, and you will have to really step on it to reach the normal tollway speed of 70-75 mph here in North Texas. Furthermore, there is no extra charger/usb port for back seat passengers, unlike other new vehicles. The entertainment options are also limited, with only a Sirius package that's free for 3 months, and no remote start option on Evo. The 3 seats in the back are quite small, and it may be a tight fit for 3 normal weight teenagers. While this may not be the best option for a road trip or a family of 5, it is still a great car for city driving. It is important to note that the depreciation is quite high, with 2018 models already at 33%-43% depreciation (check kbb). I would recommend doing research before making a purchase, and shopping around to find the best option for your needs. However, the warranty is good, as Hyundai/Kia offer great warranties. Best of luck!
Lionel Bartell 2024-09-10
Last Thursday, while driving home from work, my 2017 Kia Niro instructed me to immediately pull over and call Kia's roadside assistance. Unfortunately, this has happened at least three times in as many years, forcing me to pull over and get my car towed to my local Kia dealer. However, I am grateful that each time, the repairs have been covered under warranty. Despite this, I have been left stranded on the side of a hazardous and busy freeway during warm weather. As the original owner of my Niro, driving less than 10,000 miles each year, I am disappointed that this has happened repeatedly. I hope that Kia can understand my frustration and work with me to find a solution. Thank you for your attention to this matter.
Tommie Yundt 2024-06-05
I was hoping to use this car for my daily errands around town. I had read that the 2019 Kia Niro had an average city rating of 51 mpg, but unfortunately, I have only been getting an average of 25 mpg for short trips (such as my 3-mile roundtrip to work). For slightly longer commutes (like my 12-mile roundtrip to school), I have been getting 39 mpg, even though I have been driving very conservatively. I have noticed that the instant fuel economy is 9.8 mpg and I have had to drive very slowly, causing a line of cars to form behind me. I am planning to check the gas mileage manually to see if there is an instrumentation problem. It seems like the engine is being used when the electric motor should be running the vehicle at slow speeds. I took the car to the dealer to have it checked out, but they found nothing wrong with it. While I am not sure if I will keep this car, I am definitely not happy with the Kia Niro.
Santos Wilderman 2024-05-09
I've been driving this car for 3 years now and it has an impressive fuel efficiency of 543 Mpg. However, I've been experiencing some technical issues lately and unfortunately, Kia is no longer covering the repairs since it has exceeded 60k miles. Despite this setback, I have taken this car on some amazing adventures, from California to New York and back, and it has performed well. Overall, it's a good car with some minor annoyances.