2003 Kia Rio problems
Social links
Common 2003 Kia Rio problems
The Kia Rio, produced since 1999, is a subcompact vehicle known for its comfort, spacious interior, and well-equipped features.
The 2001 Kia Rio, for instance, has been reported to experience intermittent loss of power, making it unsafe for daily use.
In addition to engine troubles, the Kia Rio has faced issues with the infotainment system, specifically with the sound not coming out of the speakers.
The Kia Rio has also faced suspension problems, with the main areas of complaint being the suspension, the engine, and the ventilation system.
In conclusion, the Kia Rio has faced various issues, particularly with the engine and infotainment system, in certain model years. It is crucial for potential buyers to be aware of these problems and consider them before making a purchase decision.
What is the common problem with Kia Rio?
Transmission issues can plague any vehicle, and the Kia Rio is no exception. Owners have reported issues such as rough shifting, slipping gears, and transmission fluid leaks.
What is the mileage of a 2003 Kia Rio?
Find and Compare Cars
| 2003 Kia Rio | |
|---|---|
| EPA MPG | Regular Gasoline 26 combined city/highway MPG 23 city 30 highway 3.8 gals/100 miles |
| Unofficial MPG Estimates Shared by Vehicle Owners | View Estimates How can I share my MPG? |
| Vehicle Specification Data | |
| EPA Size Class | Compact Cars |
Is Kia Rio good fuel?
The Rio gives very competitive fuel economy for a petrol-powered small car. According to official figures, the 1.2-litre engine can do 53mpg, the 120hp mild-hybrid engine can do 54mpg and the 100hp 1.0-litre gets to 64mpg.
What is the top speed of the 2003 Kia Rio?
On Kia's Hwasung test track we were able to hit 100 mph with four people aboard a Rio, and by jettisoning a couple we were even able to get there surprisingly quickly. Rio felt stable and secure, despite its shortish wheelbase.
2003 Kia Rio car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Kia Rio problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Power train problems
- Electrical system problems
- Service brakes problems
- Hydraulic problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2003 Kia Rio vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2003 Kia Rio
The NHTSA has received 85 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2003 Kia Rio. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2003 Kia Rio vehicles.
2021-04-01
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-03-22
- VIN: KNADC125836
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 KIA RIO. THE CONTACT STATED THE BRAKE LIGHTS FAILED TO FUNCTION WHILE DEPRESSING THE BRAKE PEDAL. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE CHECK ENGINE WARNING LIGHT WAS ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO A LOCAL DEALER. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS INFORMED OF FAILURE. THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE VIN WAS NOT UNDER RECALL. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 150,000.
2015-12-22
SEAT BELTS,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-12-22
- VIN: KNADC125536
- Components: SEAT BELTS,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: SEAT BELTS, CAR SEAT RETAINING HOOKS, ECM, AND DISTRIBUTOR ARE RECALLED. CHEYENNE KIA HAD 3 WEEKS BEFORE ORIGINAL APPOINTMENT TO GET THE PARTS. I DELIVERED THE CAR FOR REPAIRS ONLY TO GET A CALL 4 HOURS LATER THAT THEY CANNOT FIND THE PARTS. IT HAS NOW BEEN 6 WEEKS SINCE PICKING UP MY CAR AND THEY CANNOT FIND THE PARTS TO DO THE RECALL REPAIRS. ALL I HAVE BEEN ABLE TO DO IS LEAVE A MESSAGE WITH JENNIFER XT 45960 AT 800 333 4542 CASE # K3094095 KIA CUSTOMER CARE TO FIND OUT WHEN I CAN SAFELY PUT MY KIDS IN THE BACKSEAT OF THE CAR.
2015-12-12
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-12-01
- VIN: KNADC165536
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: WHEN YOU PARK THE CAR, SHUTOFF ENGINE, PULL UP THE SHORT UNLOCK STICK, THEN PULL THE OPEN BUTTON TO OPEN THE DOOR. THAT'S NORMAL PROCEDURE. BUT IF YOU ARE IN HURRY, PULL THE DOOR OPEN BUTTON FIRST AND FORGET PULL THE UNLOCK STICK, YOU CANNOT OPEN DOOR ANYMORE, YOU CANNOT GO BACK AND PULL UP THE UNLOCK STICK TO UNLOCK DOOR ANYMORE. IT WILL KEEP LOCKING THE DOOR BACK WHEN YOU PULL UP THE UNLOCK STICK. YOU HAVE TO FIGHT FOR 15 MIN TO OPEN THE DOOR. DANGEROUS IF IN THE EMERGENCY.
2014-11-03
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-09-04
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: ALL OF THE BRAKE LIGHTS QUIT WORKING AT THE SAME TIME. DONE A SEARCH TO SEE IF THERE WAS ANY OTHER PROBLEMS LIKE MINE AND FOUND 3 OTHER OWNERS WITH THE SAME PROBLEM. IT HAS BEEN IN A MECHANIC SHOP FOR 2 WEEKS NOW AND I HAVE JUST GOT DONE TALKING WITH HIM THIS MORNING ABOUT IT AND HE SAID THAT HE HAS NOT BEEN ABLE TO PIN POINT THE PROBLEM. I FEEL THAT THIS IS A SAFETY ISSUE THAT NEEDS TO BE DEALT WITH BY KIA. *TR
2013-11-19
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-09-16
- VIN: KNADC125X36
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: FRONT, RIGHT BRAKE ROTOR SEPARATED AT THE INBOARD HALF. PIECES NOT FOUND. OUTBOARD HALF REMAINED INTACT, AND IS AVAILABLE FOR STUDY/ANALYSIS. WAS ABLE TO USE BRAKES ALTHOUGH EXTREMELY SPONGY AND DANGER OF RESULTING FIRE FROM SPARKS (METAL-TOMETAL CONTACT). REPLACED ROTOR AND PADS. VEHICLE IS BACK IN SERVICE. PHOTOS OF OLD PADS AND ROTOR ARE AVAILABLE. *TR
2013-06-24
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-06-19
- Fire: 1
- VIN: KNADC125536
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: GOING OUT TO DINNER, ABOUT 1 MILE AWAY FROM HOME SMELL COMING FROM CAR. TURNED DOWN A SIDE STREET, SMOKE COMING FROM HEAT/AIR ADJUSTMENT AREA ON DASH. STOPPED CAR, FIRE STARTED COMING OUT OF THE AREA WHERE YOU ADJUST THE HEAT/AIR. BEFORE FIRE DEPARTMENT COULD GET THERE THE ENTIRE CAR WAS ON FIRE. THIS WAS A TOTAL LOSS. THANKFULLY WE WERE ABLE TO GET OUT OF THE CAR. I FEAR IT WOULD HAVE BEEN FAR WORSE IF WE HAD BEEN ON THE EXPRESS WAY AT THE TIME. *TR
2012-08-07
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-08-06
- VIN: KNADC125636
- Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 KIA RIO. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE DRIVER SIDE DOOR LOCK FAILED AND COULD NOT BE UNLOCKED FROM THE INTERIOR OR EXTERIOR OF THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT MENTIONED THAT IN ORDER TO EXIT THE VEHICLE, SHE HAD TO DO SO THROUGH THE FRONT PASSENGER SIDE DOOR. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER WHO DIAGNOSED THAT THE DRIVER DOOR SPRING FAILED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND THEY DENIED ASSISTANCE WITH THE REPAIR DUE TO THE AGE AND MILEAGE. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 85,160.
2012-04-10
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-04-07
- Crash: 1
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 KIA RIO. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 25 MPH, THE VEHICLE STARTED SHAKING VIOLENTLY AND THEN CRASHED INTO THE SIDE OF THE RAMP. WHEN THE CONTACT EMERGED FROM THE VEHICLE, SHE NOTICED THE REAR PASSENGER TIRE FRACTURED COMPLETELY FROM THE SUSPENSION SYSTEM. THERE WERE NO INJURIES AND THE POLICE WERE NOTIFIED. A REPORT WAS AVAILABLE IF NEEDED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN AUTO MECHANIC SHOP AND THE INSURANCE COMPANY WAS ALSO NOTIFIED. THE DEALER WAS NOT NOTIFIED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED. THE VIN WAS UNKNOWN. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 85,400.
2011-10-24
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-10-17
- VIN: KNADC125136
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 KIA RIO. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE DRIVER SIDE DOOR FAILED AND COULD NOT BE OPENED AUTOMATICALLY OR MANUALLY. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER FOR DIAGNOSTIC TESTING WHICH LOCATED THE FAILURE AT THE DOOR ACTUATOR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED BUT DENIED ASSISTANCE WITH THE REPAIR BECAUSE THE WARRANTY WAS EXPIRED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 35,000.
2011-07-27
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-06-01
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: THE REAR SEATBELTS DON'T LOCK INTO PLACE RIGHT. NORMALLY, WHEN YOU PULL A SEATBELT THE FULL WAY OUT THEN LET IT WIND BACK IN, IT SHOULD HAVE TENSION ON IT. THE SEATBELTS IN THE REAR OF MY VEHICLE DON'T DO THIS. THEY CAN BE PULLED BACK OUT WITHOUT STOPPING. THEY CLIP INTO THE BUCKLES FINE THOUGH. I HAVE 2 CAR SEATS IN THE BACK, SO I NEED THIS FEATURE TO WORK PROPERLY TO SECURE THE CHILD SEATS. *TR
2011-05-23
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-04-17
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,TIRES
- Summary: I BOUGHT MY 03 KIA RIO IN 04 AND WITHIN A MO. HAVE HAD PROBLEMS EVER SINCE. I TOOK IT TO THE DEALERSHIP EVERY MONTH FOR THE FIRST 2YRS WHEN IT WAS STILL IN WARRANTY. THERE WAS ALWAYS SOMETHING CONSTANTLY WRONG OR BREAKING. THE TAIL PIPE RATTLED EXTREMELY LOUD TO THE POINT OF SLIGHTLY SHAKING THE CAR, RANDOMLY WHEN I WOULD CAME TO A STOP. IT WAS SO LOUD THAT PEOPLE IN OTHER CARS COULD HEAR IT AND STARE. OF COURSE THE REPAIR SHOPS COULD NEVER FIND THE PROBLEM. I FINALLY GAVE UP EVER HAVING IT FIXED. I'VE PAID 7 TIMES TO HAVE THE AUTO WINDOWS FIXED BUT FINALLY GAVE UP BECAUSE THEY WOULD ONLY WORK ABOUT TWO DAYS BEFORE BRAKING AGAIN. THE CAR ALWAYS HAD ISSUES ACCELERATING AND WOULD STAIN MAKING NOISES SHAKE A BIT THEN AFTER 10 SECONDS MAKE A POP POP NOISE AND FINALLY START MOVING FASTER. WHICH AGAIN COULD NEVER BE FIXED. THE CAR ALSO HAD HORRIBLE SUSPENSION. EVERY LITTLE PUMP MADE THE CAR BOUNCE AND SQUEAK LOUDLY. ALSO COULD NEVER BE FIXED. I THINK I'VE SPENT MORE TIME IN THE SHOP HAVING THE CAR REPAIRED THEN I ACTUALLY DID DRIVING IT. EVERY TIME I BLINKED SOMETHING ELSE WAS BROKEN I REPLACED ALMOST EVER PIECE OF THE CAR; BATTERY TWICE, ALL FOUR TIRES TWICE, HEAD LIGHTS, ETC THOSE ARE JUST THE SMALL THINGS I'VE ALSO HAD THE CAR COMPLETELY BRAKE DOWN ABOUT 6 TIMES WITH MAJOR REPAIRS. NOW MY CAR IS COMPLETELY DEAD 4/17/11 THE TIMING BELT SNAPPED AND DESTROYED THE ENGINE SO I HAVE TO BUY A NEW ENGINE AND TIMING BELT ALL WHICH COST MORE THEN THE CAR ITSELF THE CAR ONLY HAS 80,000 MILES ON IT SO THAT TELLS YOU HOW MUCH I ACTUALLY GOT TO DRIVE IT IN THE LAST 8YRS. I MADE SURE TO CONSTANTLY KEEP UP ON MAINTENANCE AS WELL. I WILL NEVER BUY A KIA AGAIN ITS A WEIGHT OF MY SHOULDERS TO GET RID OF SUCH A PIECE OF [XXX]. KIAS ARE MADE WITH SUCH CHEAP MATERIALS AND MADE SO POORLY THAT EVERYTHING ON THEM BRAKES AND FALLS OFF. PLEASE ANYONE READING THIS DON'T BUY A KIA YOU WILL REGRET IT. I JUST WANT TO SAVE SOMEONE ELSE FROM A NIGHTMARE. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR
2011-05-04
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-05-01
- VIN: KNADC165636
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 KIA RIO CINCO. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE REAR AUTOMATIC SEAT BELT RETRACTOR WAS NOT LOCKING PROPERLY; THEREFORE, THE SAFETY SEAT MIGHT COME LOOSE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO THE DEALER. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED AND A REPORT WAS FILED SINCE THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN ANY RECALLS. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 70,000.
2010-12-30
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-12-28
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: MY BRAKE PROPORTIONING VALVE ON MY 2003 KIA RIO CRACKED. MY MECHANIC SAYS IT SHOULD NEVER CRACK NO MATTER THE TEMPERATURE CLIMATE ETC. HE SAYS HE HAS NEVER SEEN A CRACKED ONE BEFORE AND MY CAR WOULD HAVE NO SIGNS THAT IT WAS BAD. I WOULD GO FROM PERFECT BRAKES TO NO BRAKES. THAT IS PRETTY MUCH WHAT HAPPENED. I WAS LUCKY AND HAD JUST GOT GAS AND LEAVING THE PARKING LOT. THE BRAKES WENT OUT WHILE I DRIVING SLOWLY TO THE STREET. I HAD ENOUGH BREAK TO STOP. MY COMPLAINT IS NOT FOR ME SO MUCH AS SOMEONE ELSE WHO MAY NOT HAVE BEEN SO LUCKY. I FEAR FOR OTHERS. PLEASE CHECK THIS OUT ON FURTHER VEHICLES. *TR
2010-08-15
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-01-10
- Fire: 1
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: THE SWITCH ASSEMBLY BLOWER (PART # 97251 FD000) CONSTANTLY GOES OUT ON MY 2003 KIA RIO. THE FIRST TIME IT HAPPENED MY CAR CAUGHT ON FIRE. I REPLACED IT. 6 MONTHS LATER IT WENT OUT AGAIN. I REPLACED IT ALONG WITH THE RESISTOR ASSEMBLY (PART# 1K552 61C08). 8 MONTHS LATER, IT WENT OUT AGAIN. THERE IS NOTHING WRONG WITH THE FUSE. THERE IS NOT A SHORT IN THE SYSTEM THAT CAN BE FOUND. I HAVE YET TO REPLACE THE SWITCH ASSEMBLY ANTICIPATING THE COMPANY RECTIFYING THIS. *TR
2009-12-05
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-08-11
- VIN: KNADC125436
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: BACK IN 2006 I PURCHASED A 2003 KIA RIO AND IN AUG 2009 I WAS SENT A LETTER TELLING ME MY REAR SEATBELTS HAD BEEN RECALLED DUE TO MALFUNCTION WHEN CHILDRESTRANT SEATS WERE USED. THE COMPANY KNEW ABOUT THE RECALL IN 2006 ACCORDING TO THE LETTER BUT DIDN'T NOTIFY ME UNTIL 2009, AND I HAVE A 7 YR OLD SON WHO HAS BEEN RIDING IN MY CAR WITH RECALLED SEATBELTS, THIS MADE ME UPSET SINCE THAT'S THE SAFETY OF MY CHILD. THE COMPANY DID REPLACE THE SEATBELTS BUT IT TOOK THEM ANOTHER 3 WEEKS TO GET THE PARTS AFTER ME NOTIFYING THEM ABOUT THE RECALL LETTER. *TR
2009-08-10
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-02-10
- VIN: KNADC125136
- Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
- Summary: 2003 KIA RIO DOOR OPENING MECHANISM HAS FAILED TWICE. IT WAS REPAIRED IN 2007. THE MECHANIC WHO REPAIRED THE DOOR SAID THE DESIGN OF THE DOOR OPENING SYSTEM INSIDE THE DOOR WAS NOT GOOD QUALITY AND POORLY ENGINEERED ANTICIPATING IT MIGHT FAIL AGAIN. THE DRIVER'S DOOR OPENING DEVISE IS TOTALLY DISENGAGED AND THE PASSENGER DOOR HAS TO BE USED TO ENTER AND EXIT THE VEHICLE. WHEN TAKEN TO KIA THE DEALER ACKNOWLEDGED IT WAS A PROBLEM WITH THIS MODEL BUT WOULD COST $250 TO $500 TO FIX THIS PROBLEM EVENTHOUGH IT WAS NOT THE FAULT OF THE OWNER AND HAD BEEN A PROBLEM WITH SEVERAL OTHERS. *TR
2009-04-09
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-04-07
- VIN: KNADC125436
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING DOWN THE ROAD WITH MY TWO YEAR OLD IN THE CAR, THE ENGINE SEIZED UP AND STALLED. THE CAR CURRENTLY WONT START AND HAD TO BE TOWED TO THE REPAIR SHOP. HOWEVER, WE JUST HAD ALL OF THE ROUTINE MAINTENANCE TO THE CAR LESS THEN 300 MILES PRIOR TO THE ENGINE SEIZING. THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT NEVER CAME ON. AS OF TODAY, THEY DON'T KNOW WHAT THE PROBLEM IS EXCEPT THAT THE ENGINE SEIZED. THERE WAS NO PRIOR INCIDENTS WITH THE CAR AND IT WAS ALWAYS SERVICED ON TIME. *TR
2009-04-05
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-04-02
- Number Of Injuries: 3
- Crash: 1
- VIN: KNADC125236
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TRAVELING APROX 30 MPH, REAR ENDED ANOTHER VEHICLE. SEAT BELTS DID NOT LOCK ON ANY PASSENGERS, AIRBAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. *TR
2008-12-27
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-12-23
- VIN: KNADC125436
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: THE CLUTCH IN MY 2003 KIA RIO HAS FAILED/BROKEN FOUR TIMES NOW. MY FATHER AND I BOUGHT THE VEHICLE BRAND NEW IN MARCH 2003 THE FIRST CLUTCH FAILED AROUND 8000 MILES I BELIEVE, THE SECOND AROUND 24000 MILES, THE THIRD AROUND 40000 MILES, AND NOW IS SITTING IN MY GARAGE UNABLE TO GO INTO ANY GEAR; THE CAR HAS LESS THAN 65000 MILES ON IT. I HAVE BEEN DRIVING STICK SHIFTS FOR 14+ YRS. AND I KNOW HOW TO PROPERLY OPERATE THEM, YET WHENEVER I TAKE THE VEHICLE INTO THE DEALERSHIP I AM TOLD IT IS DRIVER ERROR AND CHARGED AT LEAST $1000 IN REPAIRS. I HAVE HAD AT LEAST THREE OTHER MECHANICS LOOK AT IT AND HAVE BEEN TOLD IT IS A DESIGN/BAD PARTS PROBLEM NOT DRIVING ERROR, HOWEVER I DON'T WANT TO JEOPARDIZE THE WARRANTY BY HAVING IT REPAIRED ANYWHERE BUT THE DEALERSHIP. WITH THE LAST REPAIR (CLUTCH #3) MY FATHER WAS ALLOWED TO SPEAK TO THE DEALERSHIPS MECHANIC AFTER THE CAR WAS PULLED APART AND CAUGHT THE DEALERSHIP IN A LOT OF LIES BASED ON THE TOTAL DAMAGE DONE TO THE CLUTCH AND SURROUNDING PARTS. THERE WAS NO WAY THAT MUCH DAMAGE COULD HAVE BEEN DONE SIMPLY BY DRIVING THE VEHICLE. THEY GAVE HIM SOME FREE PARTS AND LABOR BUT THE BILL WAS STILL OVER $600 AND THE PROBLEM IS STILL THERE AS EVIDENCED BY THE VEHICLE NOT GOING INTO ANY GEAR NOW. I HAVE READ OVER 100 SIMILAR REPORTS FROM OTHER PEOPLE WHO OWN THE SAME MAKE, MODEL, AND YEAR AS MINE. KIA NEEDS TO BE HELD RESPONSIBLE FOR THIS, NOT THE CUSTOMER. I HAVE BEEN LUCKY SO FAR AS TO NOT HAVE ANYONE INJURED, I DRIVE MY FIVE YEAR OLD DAUGHTER IN THAT CAR, BUT I HAVE BEEN LEFT STRANDED IN SEVERAL NOT NICE NEIGHBORHOODS BECAUSE OF THE CLUTCH FAILURE AND HAVE HAD THE CLUTCH GO OUT WHILE IN THE MIDDLE OF A BUSY INTERSECTION. THE PROBLEM COMES ON SUDDENLY WITH LITTLE TO NO WARNING OF THE CLUTCH HAVING PROBLEMS AND IS A SEVERE SAFETY HAZARD, NOT ONLY TO THE PEOPLE INSIDE THE VEHICLE BUT FOR THE OTHER PEOPLE ON THE ROAD. IF THIS CONTINUES, SOMEONE WILL BE SEVERELY INJURED OR KILLED IF IT HAS NOT HAPPENED ALREADY. PLEASE HELP. *TR
2008-10-14
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-09-26
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: TIMING BELT BROKE AT 72000 MILES WITHOUT WARNING. KIA SAYS CHANGE AT 60000 MILES IN KY, BUT WARRANTY IN CA ALLOW FOR 105000 MILE CHANGE. KIA REFUSED TO HONOR WARRANTY. STRANDED FOR 45 MINUTES. HAD TO PAY DIAGNOSTIC TESTING AT KIA DEALER. *TR
2008-07-17
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-02-06
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 KIA RIO. WHILE DRIVING AT AN UNKNOWN SPEED AND APPROACHING A STOP, THE VEHICLE STALLED BUT DID NOT SHUT OFF WHEN THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A DEALER AND DIAGNOSED WITH FUEL PUMP FAILURE. THE FUEL PUMP WAS REPLACED. APPROXIMATELY FOUR MONTHS LATER, THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE DEALER COULD NOT DUPLICATE THE FAILURE. THE VIN WAS UNKNOWN. THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 75,000 AND FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 69,500.
2008-05-21
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-05-21
- VIN: KNADC125336
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,EQUIPMENT
- Summary: BOUGHT 2003 KIA RIO NEW. IN JAN 2005 AT ABOUT 53,000 MILES I HEARD A RATTLE AT ABOUT 50 MILES PER HOUR. IN A FEW SECONDS THE ENGINE JUST SHUTDOWN (TIMING BELT BROKE WHICH DESTROYED THE ENGINE) KIA REPLACED UNDER WARRANTY. MAY 21 2008 WHILE DRIVING ABOUT 45 MILES PER HOUR WE HEARD A SQUEAL AND AGAIN THE ENGINE SHUTDOWN. COASTED TO A STOP, ONCE AGAIN THE TIMING BELT WHICH MEANS ANOTHER ENGINE (58,000 SINCE THE LAST ENGINE) NO LONGER UNDER WARRANTY (AN ENGINE COST ALMOST AS MUCH AS THE CAR ITSELF). *TR
2007-12-12
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-12-12
- VIN: KNADC165836
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: I HAVE SEVERAL ISSUES WITH KIA. I'LL GIVE YOU A QUICK SYNOPSIS OF MY DEALINGS WITH KIA. 1-I WANTED TO BUY THE 2002 RIO CINCO IN AUGUST 2002. I RESEARCHED IT ONLINE, AND PICKED THE ONE I WANTED BEFORE GOING TO A DEALERSHIP. I WENT TO THE DEALERSHIP THAT HAD BILLBOARDS POSTED ALL OVER GRAND RAPIDS, MI ADVERTISING: $99 DOWN / $99 PER MONTH. I WAITED OVER 2 HOURS TO BE WAITED ON. WHEN THE SALESMAN FINALLY WAITED ON ME, I WAS TOLD THEY HAD TO GET THE CAR I WANTED FROM ANOTHER DEALERSHIP, AND I COULD PICK IT UP IN 2 DAYS. OCTOBER 25TH, 2002, I FINALLY PICKED IT UP (BETWEEN AUG & OCT THE SALESMAN CALLED SEVERAL TIMES TO ASK IF I WOULD ACCEPT A DIFFERENT COLOR, MODEL, FEATURES, ETC., AND OF COURSE I SAID NO ... ESPECIALLY SINCE THEY WERE NOT GOING TO OFFER A DISCOUNT). THEN, WHEN THE CAR FINALLY ARRIVED IN OCTOBER, THEY TOLD ME IT WAS WHAT I ORDERED, BUT IT WASN'T. MY HUSBAND PICKED UP THE CAR SINCE I WAS OUT OF TOWN, SO HE DIDN'T KNOW THEY GAVE HIM A 2003 MODEL, AND NOT THE 2002 I ORDERED. THEY HAD HIM SIGN THE PAPERWORK, SO HE WAS UNAWARE THAT THE PRICE WAS ALSO $4000.00 MORE THAN THE PRICE I AGREED TO PAY! UPON ARRIVING HOME FROM MY BUSINESS TRIP, I IMMEDIATELY CALLED THE DEALERSHIP TO NOTIFY THEM THAT THERE WAS A MISTAKE, AND WE DID NOT HAVE THE RIGHT VEHICLE. THEIR ANSWER TO ME WAS, THE PAPERWORK IS COMPLETE, THE CONTRACTS ARE SIGNED, AND THE SALE IS FINAL. 2-I WENT BACK SEVERAL TIMES FOR A VARIETY OF REASONS, BUT EVERYTIME I WENT INTO THAT DEALERSHIP, I HAD TO WAIT OVER AN HOUR, AND ENDED UP LEAVING BEFORE THEY WOULD TALK TO ME.... EVEN WHEN I HAD AN APPOINTMENT! SO I ENDED UP TAKING MY CINCO ELSEWHERE FOR MAINTENANCE. CONTINUED ....2-3 *TR
2007-12-12
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-12-12
- VIN: KNADC165836
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: 7-THE ENGINE LIGHT IS AGAIN ON AT 89,000. THIS TIME STEVE TOOK THE CAR TO A LOCAL MECHANIC WE KNOW & TRUST, AND WAS TOLD THE TRANSMISSION WAS SLIPPING. AGAIN, STEVE TOOK THE CAR TO A DEALERSHIP AROUND 90,000...THIS TIME THE TRANSMISSION WAS SLIPPING. AT THIS POINT, THE DEALERSHIP MECHANICS COULD NOT DENY THIS WAS A TRANSMISSION PROBLEM. NOW, WE WERE FORCED TO JUMP THROUGH SEVERAL HOOPS PROVIDING EVIDENCE THAT WE'VE PROVIDED ROUTINE MAINTENANCE. WHICH WE DID, BUT THEY STILL HAVE NOT MADE A DECISION TO REPLACE THE TRANSMISSION. 8-THE CAR NOW DOES NOT HAVE REVERSE! WE ARE FORCED TO DRIVE IT TO WORK WITHOUT A REVERSE, IT WILL COMES TO A NEAR STOP ON INCLINES. DRIVING AN AUTO WITH NO REVERSE IS DANGEROUS, BUT WE BELIEVE THIS SHOULD BE COVERED UNDER THE WARRANTY, AND WE REFUSE TO PAY FOR IT. AS I'VE STATED BEFORE, A PERSON DOES NOT GET 300,000 MILES FROM AUTOS ON A REGULAR BASIS WITHOUT PROVIDING ROUTINE MAINTENANCE! MY DAUGHTER'S CAR HAS NEARLY 200,000 MILES, AND SHE'S JUST BREAKING HER CAR IN! WE SOLD OUR FORD IN APRIL 2006 ... IT HAD 297,000 MILES AND WAS RUNNING STRONG. WE HAVE A HISTORY OF TAKING CARE OF OUR VEHICLES! KIA DEALERSHIPS ARE NOT HONORING THE 100,000 MILE BUMPER TO BUMPER WARRANTY. *TR
2007-12-12
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-12-12
- VIN: KNADC165836
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: CONT...2 OF 3 3-I'VE FOLLOWED THE MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE, PROVIDED EVIDENCE FOR ROUTINE OIL CHANGES, TRANSMISSION FLUSHES, AIR CONDITIONER MAINTENANCE., TIRES, BRAKES, ETC. EVERY AUTO I'VE EVERY OWNED (DATING BACK TO 1976) HAS GIVEN ME IN EXCESS OF 200,000 MILES...AND MY TOYOTA HAD OVER 350,000 ... AND THE ENGINE WAS STILL PURRING (I JUST GOT TIRED OF HAVING TO REPLACE THE FLOOR). A PERSON DOESN'T GET THAT KIND OF MILEAGE ON A REGULAR BASIS WITHOUT TAKING CARE OF IT! 4-THE ENGINE LIGHT FIRST APPEARED IN FEBRUARY 2004. I TOOK IT TO BURLINGAME GARAGE. THEY TOLD ME TO TAKE IT TO KIA, THAT THE WARRANTY SHOULD COVER ANYTHING WRONG WITH IT. THE DEALERSHIP AGAIN BRUSHED ME OFF BY STATING I NEEDED A TRANSMISSION FLUSH AS ROUTINE MAINTENANCE?THEY WANTED $225. I DECLINED THEIR WONDERFUL ?SPECIAL PRICE, AND MADE AN APPOINTMENT WITH BURLINGAME GARAGE?THEY DID A TRANSMISSION FLUSH FOR $79. 5-FEBRUARY 2006, THE ENGINE LIGHT COMES ON AGAIN. I CALLED THE DEALERSHIP, AND THEY HAD THEIR DEALERSHIP REVOKED, I NOW HAD TO GO TO THE COMSTOCK PARK LOCATION. SO I MADE AN APPOINTMENT FOR APRIL (THEY DIDN'T SEEM TO WORRIED ABOUT ME DRIVING THE CAR WITH THE ENGINE LIGHT ON). THEY TOLD ME I NEEDED A NEW TRANSMISSION BELT, SO THEY CHANGED IT (WHICH WAS EXTREMELY EXPENSIVE ($400+), AND THEY ALSO CHECKED THE FLUIDS, AND CHANGED THE OIL. 6-I HAD THE ENGINE FLUSHED AGAIN ONCE WE MADE THE FAMILY DECISION TO MOVE TO CALIFORNIA. WE MOVED IN AUGUST 2006. MY HUSBAND NOTICED THE "CHECK ENGINE" LIGHT ON AGAIN. HE TOOK IT TO THE DEALERSHIP AROUND 79,000 MILES, AND THEY TOLD HIM IT ONLY NEEDED A TRANSMISSION FLUSH (BUT THAT DIDN'T MAKE SENSE TO ME SINCE I HAD IT FLUSHED LESS THAN 20,000 MILES AGO). HE HAD THE FLUSH DONE ANYWAY. CONTINUED....3 *TR
2003 Kia Rio recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 3 recalls for different components of the 2003 Kia Rio.
2006-08-04
- Manufacturer: KIA MOTORS AMERICA, INC.
- Components: SEAT BELTS:REAR/OTHER
- Summary: CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES FAIL TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 208, "OCCUPANT CRASH PROTECTION." WHEN USED WITH CERTAIN CHILD SEATS, THE AUTOMATIC LOCKING RETRACTOR (ALR) FUNCTION IN THE REAR OUTBOARD SEATBELT ASSEMBLIES MAY DISENGAGE.
- Consequence: IF A CHILD SEAT IS NOT PROPERLY SECURED, THERE IS AN INCREASED RISK OF INJURY TO THE SEAT OCCUPANT IN THE EVENT OF A CRASH.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE BOTH REAR OUTBOARD SEATBELT ASSEMBLIES FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON SEPTEMBER 15, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT HYUNDAI-KIA AT 1-800-333-4542.
2005-12-12
- Manufacturer: KIA MOTORS AMERICA, INC.
- Components: CHILD SEAT
- Summary: CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 225, 'CHILD RESTRAINT ANCHORAGE SYSTEMS.' CERTAIN CHILD RESTRAINT ANCHORS WILL NOT FULLY LATCH ONTO THE LOWER LATCH ANCHORS LOCATED BETWEEN THE REAR SEAT BACK AND REAR SEAT CUSHION BECAUSE OF INTERFERENCE BETWEEN THE CHILD SEAT ANCHORS AND A METAL WIRE LOCATED IN THE FRAME OF THE REAR SEAT BACK. UNTIL THE RECALL REPAIR IS COMPLETED, FOLLOW THE INSTRUCTIONS PROVIDED BY YOUR CHILD SEATS MANUFACTURER ON HOW TO PROPERLY INSTALL THE CHILD SEAT WITH YOUR VEHICLE'S REAR SAFETY BELTS RATHER THAN USING THE LATCH SYSTEM.
- Consequence: IN THE EVENT OF A VEHICLE CRASH, IF THE CHILD SEAT IS NOT PROPERLY INSTALLED, PERSONAL INJURY OR DEATH COULD OCCUR.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE LOWER ANCHORS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JANUARY 30, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT KIA AT 1-800-333-4542.
2004-04-09
- Manufacturer: KIA MOTORS AMERICA, INC.
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY
- Summary: ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, THE FUEL INTAKE NIPPLE OF THE FUEL DISTRIBUTOR IS SUBJECT TO FRACTURE OR CRACKING DURING REMOVAL OF THE QUICK CONNECT COUPLING SECURING THE MAIN FUEL TUBE ASSEMBLY TO THE FUEL INTAKE NIPPLE, OR WHEN FORCE IS ACCIDENTALLY APPLIED TO THE INTAKE NIPPLE DURING THE VEHICLE ASSEMBLY PROCESS OR DURING ENGINE COMPARTMENT REPAIRS.
- Consequence: FUEL LEAKAGE IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE MAY RESULT IN A FIRE.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE FUEL DISTRIBUTOR AND MAIN FUEL TUBE ASSEMBLIES. THE RECALL BEGAN JUNE 18, 2004. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT KIA AT 1-800-333-4542.
Negative 2003 Kia Rio car reviews
Positive 2003 Kia Rio car reviews
-
We have the means to buy more expensive vehicles than Kia's, but we have found that we don't want to. We currently own two Kias (one Cinco and one Sedona) and we plan on purchasing our next two vehicles from Kia as well. The quality, warranty, and modest comforts that Kia offers are unbeatable for the price. I truly believe that Kia and Hyundai are revolutionizing the North American car market.
-
I hope you're doing well! I wanted to share my experience with the 2003 Kia Rio. I was looking for a car that was comfortable to drive and had all the necessary features, without breaking the bank. I was thrilled to find that the Kia Rio met all of my needs and more! As someone who is 6'2, I was pleasantly surprised to find that the driver's seat was very comfortable and provided plenty of head and leg room. The car has a nice style and is very affordable. The only downside is that the automatic version doesn't have much power, but if you're not constantly accelerating, it's not a big deal. I've been getting around 30 MPG in the city, which is better than expected. Overall, I think the Kia Rio is a great car at a great price!
-
I live in the mountains and drive state highways up, down, and over. I also use interstates fairly regularly. The car is so peppy and feels solid, which makes driving it a lot of fun. It passes easily for a small car and is really comfortable too. I love that there is enough room behind the second seat for my 50# dog. Plus, I get an average MPG of 35, which is amazing! And let's not forget how cute the car is, especially in blueberry color!
-
Are you tired of driving your big truck? Let's be honest, how often do you actually haul anything? Anyways, I recently traded in my truck for a sweet Rio for a cool $2.61 straight across trade. I absolutely love this car! Even though I'm 6'2
-
I switched from driving a mid-size pick up to the Cinco, so it took me a little while to get used to the understeer from a front-wheel drive car. However, after two months, I absolutely love it! While the speed sensitive power steering could use a little tweaking, I have noticed that low speed sharp turns have a strange feel to them. Additionally, the cabin noise at low speeds is a little louder than I would prefer. Overall, both city and highway driving in my Cinco is a pleasure. It is definitely the most bang for the buck!
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2003 Kia Rio problems:
2003 Kia Rio Problems and Complaints - 3 Issues
https://repairpal.com/2003-kia-rio/problems
Problem with your 2003 Kia Rio? Our list of 3 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 2003 Kia Rio.
2003 Kia Rio Consumer Reviews | Cars.com
https://www.cars.com/research/kia-rio-2003/consumer-reviews/
Comfort 3.2; Interior 3.2; Performance 3.1; Value 4.1; Exterior 3.3; Reliability 3.7.
2003 Kia Rio Reviews and Owner Comments
https://repairpal.com/reviews/2003-kia-rio
The average rating is a 4.5 out of 5 stars. The 2003 Kia Rio Reliability Rating is 4.0 out of 5. It ranks 3rd out of 32 for all car brands. Learn ...
03 rio strange problems. | Kia Forum
https://www.kia-forums.com/threads/03-rio-strange-problems.109290/
Sep 28, 2013 ... Put a new air filter in as that was dirty. Not quite sure what else to check. Its a 2003 kia rio with 63000 miles.
I seem to have another problem with my 2003 Kia rio.
https://www.justanswer.com/kia/6jzs1-kia-rio-seem-problem-2003-kia-rio.html
Apr 20, 2012 ... Or the snorkel from the mass air flow sensor to the throttle body could be ripped. Both are very common and can cause you vehicle to loose power ...
Other years of Kia Rio
Are you having problems with your 2003 Kia Rio?
Lukas Jones 2024-11-12
I had this car for two years and unfortunately experienced a lot of mechanical issues. During this time, it dropped a cylinder, the timing belt broke, bending all of the valves and the ball bearing went bad three times. However, it was still fuel efficient and a good deal for the price. It's worth noting that these cars are generally less expensive for a reason.
Eddie Rippin 2024-10-29
Your 2003 Rio sedan automatic has presently covered 72,000 miles and still runs great! With a fuel efficiency of 35 mpg at 70-75 mph with the A/C on, it's a reliable and economical choice. I changed the tires at 62,000 miles and opted for a 195 series instead of the 165 it came with, which has definitely improved the ride quality. I change the oil every 5,000 miles and replaced the timing belt at 58,000 miles. Although I had some issues with the front exterior door handles falling off at 50,000 miles, the dealer took care of the problem immediately. I also had the airbags deploy at a very low impact of 3 mph, but thankfully there was zero damage to the car. The front pair of airbags and front seat belts were replaced for $2,000, but I still love my car and would definitely buy another one.
Judson Nitzsche 2024-06-13
It's great to hear that you're enjoying your car! It sounds like you're finding it fun to drive and economical, which are both fantastic qualities. I understand that having a little more power and a bigger gas tank would be nice, but it's good to hear that you're still fairly satisfied after six months. Thank you for sharing your thoughts with us!
Loyal Bednar 2024-05-21
I bought this car second hand from an elderly lady with only 8,300 miles on it, and at first, I absolutely loved it. The car's light weight provided excellent performance, and its great mileage of 32 mpg had me feeling good when gas prices soared. I also appreciated the warranty coverage, which has been helpful, although I've had to use it thoroughly. Unfortunately, the car has had some issues, including several sets of front wheel bearings, a control arm, a few sensors, and even a transmission, all before reaching 61,000 miles. Currently, I'm facing another failed sensor, an ominous noise that the dealer says is
Ezra Hegmann 2024-04-11
I purchased my car after totaling my beloved regular Rio. Unfortunately, I am not very happy with my current car. It consumes a lot of gas, only about 21 miles to the gallon. What bothers me the most is the exterior quality. It is very easy to dent and the paint is of poor quality. I would advise you to shop carefully and do your research before making a purchase. In my case, I feel like I got ripped off and paid more than what the car is worth.