Kia Rio problems
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Kia Rio model years
Common Kia Rio problems
The Kia Rio is a popular subcompact car, but like any vehicle, it has its share of common problems. Here are some of the most frequently reported issues based on complaints from Kia Rio owners:
- Bumpy Ride: Early models of the Kia Rio, particularly those with suspension issues, may have a very bumpy ride. This problem is often caused by worn-out suspension systems, which can be replaced with new ones.
- Illuminated ABS Light: If the ABS warning light is lit up on the dashboard, it could be due to a broken sensor on the back wheel that's attached to the bearing. This issue is common in the Kia Rio and can be fixed by replacing the sensor.
- Excessive Vibration: If the car is vibrating excessively, it could be due to a failed rear shock rubber mounting. This problem can cause the steering to become weaker and can lead to quicker tire wear.
- Engine Misfire: The Kia Rio is known for going through spark plugs quickly, and if the engine is misfiring or idling roughly, it could be due to worn-out spark plugs. It's also worth checking the spark plug wiring for damage.
- Fuel Leak: A cracked inlet nipple on the fuel distribution rack can cause fuel to leak from the car, which can lead to a fire hazard. This problem was the subject of a recall and can be fixed by replacing the distribution rail and fuel supply pipe.
- Noisy Power Steering: If the power steering is noisy, it could be due to a problem with the power steering pump or the rack and pinion. This issue can be fixed by replacing the faulty component.
- Disengaged Child Lock: The child locks on the rear doors may not work due to a recall issue where the release lever cable is too short. This problem can be fixed by replacing the cable with a longer one.
- Stereo Speakers Not Working: If the stereo is working but there is no sound coming from the speakers, it could be due to a software glitch. A hard reset of the car's electrical system can often fix this problem.
- Excess Noise When AC is On: If there is excess noise when the air conditioning is on, it could be due to a problem with the compressor or the fan. This issue can be fixed by replacing the faulty component.
- Engine Seizure: The 2004 Kia Rio has had reports of engine seizure, which can be a serious problem. This issue can be caused by a variety of factors, including low oil levels, a faulty engine sensor, or a damaged timing chain.
- Engine Failure: The 2013 Kia Rio has had reports of engine failure, which can be a costly problem to fix. This issue can be caused by a variety of factors, including worn-out engine components or a faulty engine sensor.
- Engine Knock: The 2014 Kia Rio has had reports of engine knock, which can be a serious problem. This issue can be caused by a variety of factors, including low oil levels, a faulty engine sensor, or a damaged timing chain.
- Fuel Consumption: Some models of the Kia Rio, particularly the 2013 model, have had complaints about excessive fuel consumption. This issue can be caused by a variety of factors, including a faulty fuel injector or a damaged engine component.
- Transmission Issues: Some models of the Kia Rio, particularly the 2013 and 2014 models, have had complaints about transmission issues. This issue can be caused by a variety of factors, including low transmission fluid levels or a faulty transmission component.
- Electrical Issues: Some models of the Kia Rio, particularly the 2019 model, have had complaints about electrical issues. This issue can be caused by a variety of factors, including a faulty alternator or a damaged battery.
It's important to note that not all Kia Rio models will experience these problems, and many owners have reported having few or no issues with their vehicles. However, if you are considering purchasing a Kia Rio, it's worth being aware of these common problems and doing your research to ensure that you are getting a reliable vehicle.
Is a Kia Rio a reliable car?
Kia is the third most reliable car brand, according to J.D. Power and RepairPal. Kia offers a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty. The Rio is the most reliable Kia model and has the brand's lowest average repair costs, according to RepairPal.
What are the main problems with Kia Rio?
It requires fewer annual repairs compared to other hatchbacks. It's a great investment, losing only 45% of its value after five years. Some frequently reported issues the Kia Rio face include a faulty infotainment system, transmission problems, and loud engine noise.
Is Kia Rio cheap to fix?
A KIA Rio 5 will cost about $8,432 for maintenance and repairs during its first 10 years of service. This is more than the industry average for popular hatchback models by $1,668.
Why was the Kia Rio discontinued?
Kia discontinuing Rio subcompact sedan
It shared a fate similar to its Hyundai counterpart, the Accent subcompact sedan, which did not return for the 2023 model year. Kia, like other mass market brands, plans to use crossovers rather than cars as an entry-level gateway for mostly young, first-time buyers.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Kia Rio years
We have researched Kia problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Kia Rio cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Kia Rio model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Kia Rio model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Kia Rio years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Kia Rio car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Kia Rio , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Air bags problems
- Engine problems
- Service brakes problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Electrical system problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Kia Rio vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Rio model years
A total of 165 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Rio model years
There were a total of 82 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Rio model years
There were a total of 152 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with deaths by Rio model years
There were a total of 4 complaints that resulted in a death. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 1270 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Kia Rio . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Kia Rio vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Kia Rio 2020
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-08
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-27
- VIN: 3KPA24AD1LE
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Recall SC223 Brake master cylinder. Rough metal edges can pinatrate Seals causing leaks poor braking functionality. NHTSA Capaign ID# 21V936000. Nov.30th.2021, 87 vehicles effected. Clay Cooley kia refused to honor the recall and fix the problem with my vehicle on 10/25/2024. Recall on the catalytic converters. Recall SC176 , Carbon monoxide poisoning due to exhaust systems malfunctioning and exhaust coming through the AC system. When I took my 2020 Rio S to Vanguard Kia Arlington Texas. Vanguard kia refused to honor the recall because my vehicle had over 80,000 miles and that's why Vanguard Kia service advisors wouldn't replace the catalytic converters. Or Vanguard kia would have replaced them! Even though it was a Safety issue. My wife and I recently was admitted to Parkland hospital for carbon monoxide poisoning levels of tests taken at the hospital blood gas tests were above level 9 for carbon monoxide poisoning. My level was 13. So now we're having to drive our 2020 rio s with the windows down and the ac vents closed. To keep from getting carbon monoxide poisoning again!! Please help us get these 2 SAFETY RECALL ISSUES FIXED. We cannot afford it out of pocket. Kia Should honor their recalls. vehicle owners.
Kia Rio 2013
- Date Of Incident: 2023-10-04
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-04
- VIN: KNADN4A37D6
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2013 Kia Rio. The contact stated while driving at various speeds, there was smoke coming out from underneath the hood. The contact stated that the failure also occurred while the vehicle was parked. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was repaired under NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V652000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic); however, the failure persisted. The dealer was notified of the failure and charged a fee for diagnostic testing; however, the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was unknown.
Kia Rio 2013
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-13
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-03
- VIN: KNADM4A39D6
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: See attached document for complaint.
Kia Rio 2013
- Date Of Incident: 2024-04-10
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-10
- VIN: KNADM4A31D6
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: Dealer has failed to remedy recall 23V652 in a reasonable amount of time. Received the original recall notice dated April 10, 2024. Immediately scheduled an appointment with the dealer. Dealer fixed another outstanding recall but said they didn't have the part for the 23V652 recall. Contacted the dealer several times since and they say they don't have the part to fix the recall and will get back when they do. Contacted Kia and explained the situation. They said they'd get back. Never heard from them. This is a recall for a fire hazard. It was dated April 10, 2024. It is now September 10, 2024.
Kia Rio 2013
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-27
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-27
- VIN: KNADM4A36D6
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: The contact owns a 2013 Kia Rio. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V652000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
Kia Rio 2014
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-25
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-25
- VIN: KNADM4A33E6
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Driving to work I exited US-26 in Hillsboro, Oregon at the 185th exit. The exit is an uphill ramp with a traffic signal at the top of the hill. The traffic signal at the end of the ramp was green. I was following a Tesla Model Y and I saw the brake lights activate. I applied my brakes causing my car to slow down and then I had to proceed through a yellow light because I did not think I could stop safely without ending in the intersection. At the next traffic signal, I rolled down my window and yelled to the other driver to not apply their brakes when they are proceeding uphill through a green light. The other driver told me it is "regenerative braking." Unnecessary braking causes disruptions in the flow of traffic. It does not make sense that brake lights would activate if the driver is not applying the brakes.
Kia Rio 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-05
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-13
- Fire: 1
- VIN: KNADM5A37F6
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: The contact owned a 2015 Kia Rio. The contact stated that while the friend was driving approximately 70 MPH, the vehicle suddenly began to lose automotive power, and smoke was seen coming from under the hood. The vehicle was parked and the friend exited the vehicle and discovered flames coming from the engine compartment. The fire department was called to the scene and extinguished the flames. The vehicle was destroyed and later towed away to a nearby towing facility. A fire and police report was taken at the scene. The cause of the failure and fire was not determined. The manufacturer and local dealer were not contacted. The failure mileage was 118,000.
Kia Rio 2013
- Date Of Incident: 2024-05-31
- Date Complaint: 2024-07-29
- VIN: KNADM4A36D6
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Vehicle has just over 110,000 miles and the vehicle burns oil like crazy. Piston rings typically last 150,000 miles. Started running low on old 5,000 miles ago. I’ve looked online and found more incidences like mine and are happening around the same mileage. This can cause major engine damage if left untreated. I feel it’s worth an investigation to save people from future issues like this. Vehicles should last well over 100,000 miles without major engine repair like piston rings. Unfortunately I have no documentation to prove this I have no money to take it to the shop but I’ve changed the oil about 4 times in the past 3 months. It sounds like maintenance needs to be carried out but I can assure you that something this major should not be happening at 110,000 miles. Thank you for your time
Kia Rio 2007
- Date Of Incident: 2024-04-29
- Date Complaint: 2024-07-24
- VIN: KNADE123676
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: the engine has very bad Loss of oil pressure it consumption of a lot oil the engine knock very bad that engine has decreased its power the engine oil light always on so I stop driving the car and car blows white smoke from the engine my mechanic told he did not want to work on the car because of the engine but I can get a invoice he quoted me 3,000 dollars for a new engine i have not even had this car for long could not even drive it around or get my child to school
Kia Rio 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-19
- Date Complaint: 2024-07-19
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: The contact owns a 2015 Kia Rio. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V652000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. The VIN was not available.
Kia Rio 2012
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-16
- Date Complaint: 2024-07-18
- VIN: KNADM4A31C6
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: Our granddaughter bought this car from a private seller. My son is a mechanic and when he inspected the undercarriage he found a small leak in the seam of the gas tank. The local KIA dealer said it is not covered. This, to me, is a safety and emissions issue. Please assist. The car is available at any time for inspection. Thank you
Kia Rio 2016
- Date Of Incident: 2024-04-30
- Date Complaint: 2024-07-13
- VIN: KNADM4A32G6
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Vehicle burning through excessive amounts of oil. Check engine light came on and car was making a loud ticking noise and knock. Dealership confirmed the vehicle will need a new engine. Kia Corporate denied replacement because vehicle is out of warranty. Reported problem to Kia before warranty expired and was still denied.
Kia Rio 2016
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-17
- Date Complaint: 2024-07-12
- VIN: KNADN4A38G6
- Components: STEERING,SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE
- Summary: What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? Complete engine lockup during operation at speed which caused steering and braking to be greatly hampered. How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? The engine failed on a 4-lane highway in traffic which could have easily caused a high-speed accident since the car extremely decelerated and lost power steering and braking in order to get out of traffic. Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? Yes confirmed by an independent service center which told me it was either a cylinder rod or a lower engine bearing failure. Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others? No, the manufacture KIA has a recall on other models in this year range but not the RIO. The other models have a similar engine failure caused by a faulty cylinder rod bearing. The RIO has never been added to this recall list, but it should be because it looks like the engine issues are also on this model in the same time frame. Were there any warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, and when did they first appear? No, they only came on when the engine failed. Then every warning light appeared.
Kia Rio 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-03
- Date Complaint: 2024-07-10
- VIN: KNADM4A3XF6
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Engine making noise and smelling like it’s burning. Towed to mechanic said oil was not there despite recent oil change and said sparks of metal was on oil dipstick. Now being told needs new engine after recall oiece completed and the car has less than 110k miles. Kia will not honor an engine replacement.
Kia Rio 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-03
- Date Complaint: 2024-07-09
- Fire: 1
- VIN: KNADM4A34H6
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE
- Summary: My son and I were driving home from work on IH-35 and I noticed smoke coming from under my hood. Then within seconds, flames appeared moving quickly towards the windshield. I attempted to move to the shoulder and after doing so, I was unable to stop since the brakes were no longer working. I had to use the parking brake when it slowed down and then once stopped, my son and I jumped out of the vehicle and within 3-5 seconds, the entire car was overcome with fire which then exploded.
Latest 5 recalls Kia Rio
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 27 recalls for different components of the Kia Rio.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Kia Rio 2016
- Report Received Date: 2023-09-25
- Manufacturer: Kia America, Inc.
- Park Out Side: 1
- Park Out Side: 1
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP:CONTROL UNIT/MODULE
- Summary: Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2010-2019 Borrego, 2014-2016 Cadenza, 2010-2013 Forte, Forte Koup, Sportage, 2015-2018 K900, 2011-2015 Optima, 2011-2013 Optima Hybrid, Soul, 2012-2017 Rio, 2011-2014 Sorento, and 2010-2011 Rondo vehicles. The Hydraulic Electronic Control Unit (HECU) may experience an electrical short, which can result in an engine compartment fire while parked or driving.
- Consequence: An engine compartment fire while parked or driving can increase the risk of injury.
- Remedy: Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures until the recall repair is complete. Dealers will replace the HECU fuse, free of charge. Interim notification letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed November 14, 2023. Owner notification letters were mailed March 29, 2024 through June 18, 2024. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC284.
- Model: Kia Rio 2012
- Report Received Date: 2023-09-25
- Manufacturer: Kia America, Inc.
- Park Out Side: 1
- Park Out Side: 1
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP:CONTROL UNIT/MODULE
- Summary: Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2010-2019 Borrego, 2014-2016 Cadenza, 2010-2013 Forte, Forte Koup, Sportage, 2015-2018 K900, 2011-2015 Optima, 2011-2013 Optima Hybrid, Soul, 2012-2017 Rio, 2011-2014 Sorento, and 2010-2011 Rondo vehicles. The Hydraulic Electronic Control Unit (HECU) may experience an electrical short, which can result in an engine compartment fire while parked or driving.
- Consequence: An engine compartment fire while parked or driving can increase the risk of injury.
- Remedy: Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures until the recall repair is complete. Dealers will replace the HECU fuse, free of charge. Interim notification letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed November 14, 2023. Owner notification letters were mailed March 29, 2024 through June 18, 2024. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC284.
- Model: Kia Rio 2013
- Report Received Date: 2023-09-25
- Manufacturer: Kia America, Inc.
- Park Out Side: 1
- Park Out Side: 1
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP:CONTROL UNIT/MODULE
- Summary: Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2010-2019 Borrego, 2014-2016 Cadenza, 2010-2013 Forte, Forte Koup, Sportage, 2015-2018 K900, 2011-2015 Optima, 2011-2013 Optima Hybrid, Soul, 2012-2017 Rio, 2011-2014 Sorento, and 2010-2011 Rondo vehicles. The Hydraulic Electronic Control Unit (HECU) may experience an electrical short, which can result in an engine compartment fire while parked or driving.
- Consequence: An engine compartment fire while parked or driving can increase the risk of injury.
- Remedy: Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures until the recall repair is complete. Dealers will replace the HECU fuse, free of charge. Interim notification letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed November 14, 2023. Owner notification letters were mailed March 29, 2024 through June 18, 2024. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC284.
- Model: Kia Rio 2014
- Report Received Date: 2023-09-25
- Manufacturer: Kia America, Inc.
- Park Out Side: 1
- Park Out Side: 1
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP:CONTROL UNIT/MODULE
- Summary: Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2010-2019 Borrego, 2014-2016 Cadenza, 2010-2013 Forte, Forte Koup, Sportage, 2015-2018 K900, 2011-2015 Optima, 2011-2013 Optima Hybrid, Soul, 2012-2017 Rio, 2011-2014 Sorento, and 2010-2011 Rondo vehicles. The Hydraulic Electronic Control Unit (HECU) may experience an electrical short, which can result in an engine compartment fire while parked or driving.
- Consequence: An engine compartment fire while parked or driving can increase the risk of injury.
- Remedy: Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures until the recall repair is complete. Dealers will replace the HECU fuse, free of charge. Interim notification letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed November 14, 2023. Owner notification letters were mailed March 29, 2024 through June 18, 2024. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC284.
- Model: Kia Rio 2015
- Report Received Date: 2023-09-25
- Manufacturer: Kia America, Inc.
- Park Out Side: 1
- Park Out Side: 1
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP:CONTROL UNIT/MODULE
- Summary: Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2010-2019 Borrego, 2014-2016 Cadenza, 2010-2013 Forte, Forte Koup, Sportage, 2015-2018 K900, 2011-2015 Optima, 2011-2013 Optima Hybrid, Soul, 2012-2017 Rio, 2011-2014 Sorento, and 2010-2011 Rondo vehicles. The Hydraulic Electronic Control Unit (HECU) may experience an electrical short, which can result in an engine compartment fire while parked or driving.
- Consequence: An engine compartment fire while parked or driving can increase the risk of injury.
- Remedy: Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures until the recall repair is complete. Dealers will replace the HECU fuse, free of charge. Interim notification letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed November 14, 2023. Owner notification letters were mailed March 29, 2024 through June 18, 2024. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC284.
Latest negative Kia Rio car reviews
Latest positive Kia Rio car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2007
I bought this car used when my Aztec gave up the ghost. During the test drive, I fell in love with the acceleration and tight steering. Although it had 96,000 miles on it, I have only had one mildly annoying fix - two cylinder coils went out causing misfires. I am 6'1
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Vehicle year: 2003
I love this car! It runs so smoothly and is incredibly comfortable. At just ten grand, it's an unbeatable deal. While I did have a minor issue with the brakes on the highway, it was easily fixed and I've had no problems since. The car is surprisingly powerful and handles high-speed turns with ease. I highly recommend it to anyone in need of affordable transportation.
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Vehicle year: 2010
I really like this car! It's got a lot of cool features (see below) and it's definitely more unique compared to its rivals like the Corolla, Civic, Fit, and Yaris. It really stands out!
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Vehicle year: 2003
I purchased this car brand new in 2003 for a great price of $9888. Although the car was only fair, I thought that not having power features would mean fewer expenses. Unfortunately, this was not the case. The passengers' side door handle broke off in my wife's hand at only 11k miles, and by the time I sold the car at 144k miles, all of the door handles had been replaced except for the driver's handle. I had to make several repairs to the car, and the transmission had to be replaced twice, once at 68k miles and again at 122k miles. Additionally, the seats were uncomfortable, and the suspension was noisy and not very smooth.
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Vehicle year: 2004
Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I just wanted to let you know that there seem to be some issues with the back hatch and the cubby hold next to the overhead lights in your car. I thought you might want to have it checked out. Take care!
Are you having problems with your Kia Rio?
Armani Will 2025-10-01
Vehicle year: 2008
Although I have had some issues with this car, I am confident in my decision to not purchase another Kia in the future. The car's handling in the snow has been less than ideal and I have had to replace both wheel bearings and all four tires within two years of ownership. Additionally, the lack of keyless entry has been a frustration. However, I am confident in my assessment of the car's performance and will be exploring other options in the future.
Kareem Pfeffer 2025-09-28
Vehicle year: 2004
My car is only two months new. It's a 4-door sedan with automatic transmission, air conditioning, am/fm/cd and the 'upgrade package', but no power windows or door locks. It took a bit of getting used to not having those features, but I can live without them. There is plenty of interior space for those sitting up front, however, those sitting in the back have relatively no leg room. The door handles and other interior features are made of cheap plastic and are somewhat ugly, but they are functional. The engine could use more power, especially when driving uphill on freeways or trying to merge onto a freeway or pass other vehicles. On the bright side, the fuel economy is great! Overall, it's a decent and driveable car for the price.
Robbie Reilly 2025-09-24
Vehicle year: 2011
We experienced two major breakdowns within 8000 miles, requiring a new transmission and a new front axle. Despite my wife's gentle driving, these issues have caused me to lose faith in KIA as a reliable brand. This experience has led me to regret my purchase and I will not be buying another KIA in the future.
Leone Stark 2025-09-21
Vehicle year: 2006
My wife absolutely loves this car, and I have to admit, it's growing on me too! The heated front seats were a pleasant surprise, and the gas mileage is excellent. While the performance and comfort are adequate, I was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed driving it. Despite my initial reservations, this car has been a great purchase. We've put 60,000kms on it and have only had a couple of minor issues - the spark plugs died at 40,000km, but that was an easy fix. We did have to replace the timing belt for $800, which was a bit of a disappointment since it wasn't covered under warranty. One thing to note is that the metal body seems to be of poor quality - every stone chip seems to begin rusting immediately, unlike domestic galvanized cars. Overall, I would definitely buy this car again (for my wife, of course)!
Taurean Daniel 2025-09-13
Vehicle year: 2008
I bought this car back in 2008 and unfortunately, I have had to replace some parts that should have lasted longer. I have had to replace bearings, rotors, and tires more frequently than expected. Additionally, the timing belt needs to be replaced about every 30,000 miles, which is a known issue with Rio cars. Despite these challenges, the car is generally reliable. However, I would not choose to purchase this model again. Although they are durable, the frequent need for repairs can be frustrating.