Kia Rio problems
Social links
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
-
Vehicle year: 2021
I recently visited my local Kia dealer and was pleasantly surprised to find out that they were having an end-of-year sale. Although I wasn't actively looking to purchase a new car, the great deal they offered me was too good to pass up. I traded in my 2018 Ford Fiesta SE Hatchback with 24,000 miles, which was already paid off, and received a check for $5,500. In exchange, I drove away with a brand new 2020 Kia Rio LX S with only 20 miles on it. I financed the car through my credit union at an interest rate of 2.14% and my monthly payment is only $170.00 for 36 months. The car drives really nicely and has more room than my old Fiesta. I also got the 10-year, 100,000-mile warranty and feel like I got a great value for my money. I highly recommend the 2020 Kia Rio. I've had it for 13 months now and have put 15,000 miles on it without any issues. I did have a problem with the electrical system at one point, but Kia Motors provided me with a rental car and repaired the cluster. Overall, I'm a very happy customer. Although the dealer offered me $14,500 to trade in my Kia Rio for a 2023 model for $5,822 out the door, I declined the offer. As of today, I have 24,550 miles on my Kia Rio and it's still running great!
-
Vehicle year: 2019
Hello! As a mature lady, I spent over a year searching for a new car after loving my old Dodge Neon. Unfortunately, I couldn't find anything as comfortable, especially since most new vehicles have small back windows that create blind spots. However, I do appreciate the backup camera, but I still want to be able to see out properly! This is why I decided not to buy the Hyundai Accent, and the Rio just felt too big. I do wish it had blind spot indicators on the side mirrors, as the driver's side seems to have a big gap. (I'll get one of those stick-on ones). Overall, I'm very happy with my purchase, especially with the 35-38 mpg! This car is zippy, and I have to work hard to keep it below 80, even without using the 'sports' mode! I'm also grateful for Edmunds' review. Oh, and the sound system is fantastic, especially with Sirius!
-
Vehicle year: 2006
Kia did an amazing job with their all new car, and you can buy with confidence. I was surprised to learn that some big name brands are building cars that are not up to par, and even cheating on the number of side air bags they offer. To make sure you're getting the best, be sure to check the fine print and see if they include both torso and head curtain air bags - you really need both! Luckily, the Kia Rio has both the torso and head curtain side air bags. It's important to note that these are different from frontal air bags. The build quality of my car is excellent, and the power is impressive. Even as an old gearhead, I don't need to press more than 1/8 on the pedal to get the car moving just fine. There are so many great features to enjoy, and the gas mileage is excellent too!
-
Vehicle year: 2008
I hope you're doing well! I wanted to bring up a concern I have about my car. With gas prices being over $3 and speeds of 35 MPH or more, I'm worried about the slow shift in the auto transmission and the potential for future problems. Unfortunately, my car with only 46000 miles is getting worse and the service dealerships are too few and far between. On the bright side, I've had no problems with regular maintenance and my other Hondas have been great. I use my Kia as a work car and drive it excessively, so it's a real shame that I'm paying for the Hondas and not using them. The lx version with power package has a great system for such an inexpensive car, but unfortunately, one of the six speakers is blown and it's quite annoying. Overall, I'm still happy with my car and hope to resolve these issues soon.
-
Vehicle year: 2022
Designed by the same German designer who created the Audi TT coupe. Its shape is more refined than the quirky wedge-shaped Honda Fit and other cars in its category. The interior and infotainment system are fantastic. It's a great second car for zipping around town and more!
Are you having problems with your Kia Rio?
Cody Kirlin 2025-03-25
Vehicle year: 2005
This is a nice car with decent (not great) mileage and good features. However, it's important to note that the timing belt needs to be replaced every 60000 miles. As this is an interference engine, if the belt breaks while the car is running, the engine will be destroyed. Therefore, it's recommended to replace the timing belt sooner than the recommended mileage. Unfortunately, this design choice accounts for the lower reliability rating. It's concerning that a single point of failure can cause such significant damage to the engine.
Lonnie Macejkovic 2025-03-24
Vehicle year: 2009
This is our second Rio 'shopping trolley'. It offers the best value and size in its class by far. Although the fuel consumption is disappointingly high and the transmission had to be replaced the morning after we got it, it's fine now and these things happen. The tyres can be a bit noisy, but overall it's a good 'mum and pop' runaround. With its low service costs and 5-year warranty, it's definitely a winner!
Nathaniel Feeney 2025-03-22
Vehicle year: 2005
I hope this message finds you well. I wanted to share my experience with my Kia car. I purchased it from the original owner and was initially delighted with it. The car was in great shape inside and out, with only about 40k miles on it. It had been maintained according to the manufacturer's recommendations. However, when I took the car for an oil change at the dealer, I was informed that the warranty was not transferable because I was the second owner. This meant that any repairs would be on me. Unfortunately, at 74,000k, the car suddenly stopped working without any warning. I had it towed to a shop and was informed that the timing belt had broken and destroyed the top part of the engine. I was never informed of the need to replace the timing belt at or before 60,000 K. Kia said they were sorry but couldn't help me. I have owned many cars from Lexus, Toyota, Honda, and American brands, and I have never had this issue before. I just wanted to share my experience with you and advise you to be cautious. Thank you for your time.
Paris Dibbert 2025-03-16
Vehicle year: 2001
This car is really fun to drive, especially if you enjoy the feeling of driving a go-kart. It has been incredibly cheap to maintain and I have had no problems with it. The only reason for the average rating is that it is an affordable car that is cheap to drive. It gets you where you need to go, but that's about it. Personally, I love driving it, but I wouldn't mind looking a bit better in a BMW.
Ahmad Ernser 2025-03-07
Vehicle year: 2004
Unfortunately, my Kia Rio has had a lot of problems and has finally given up at 177k. I've had to replace many parts in the cooling system, including two radiators, as well as headlights and tail-lights. The driver's door doesn't lock and two windows won't go down. I also had to deal with a transmission fluid leak, which was quite frustrating as it caused me to break down every 20 minutes. Additionally, I had to replace the alternator belt and fix a brake fluid leak. Two bad oxygen sensors caused a horrible shaking. Overall, it's been a challenging experience. I'm disappointed with the car and won't be purchasing a Kia again. Thank you for listening to my experience.