2010 Kia Rio problems

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2010 Kia Rio

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Common 2010 Kia Rio problems

The Kia Rio 2010 is a popular car, but like any other vehicle, it has its fair share of common problems. Here are some of the most frequently reported issues by owners of this car:

  • Illuminated ABS Light: The ABS warning light may be lit up on your dashboard, but there may be no other obvious signs of a fault. This is likely due to a broken sensor on the back wheel that is attached to the bearing. This can happen regularly on the Rio, but it's an easy fix, and replacements are readily available in online stores.
  • Excessive Vibration: If your car is vibrating a lot, the steering is weaker, and some of your tires are wearing out quickly, the rear shock rubber mounting has likely failed. This can lead to issues with the rear wheel bearings, so it's essential to check these as well. Replacement units are available in online stores.
  • Engine Misfire: The Rio is famous for going through spark plugs quickly. If your engine is misfiring and idling roughly, the cause is likely to be the spark plugs. It's also worth checking the spark plug wiring, as this may have been damaged. Replacements are available in online stores.
  • Fuel Leak: A cracked inlet nipple on the fuel distribution rack can cause fuel to leak from the car and onto the road. This issue led to a recall for Kia, and it's essential to resolve it as quickly as possible to avoid the risk of a fire. Replacement parts are available in online stores.
  • Noisy Power Steering: The power steering on the Rio can become noisy, which can be caused by a variety of issues, including low power steering fluid or a faulty power steering pump. It's essential to diagnose the issue correctly to ensure that it's fixed correctly.
  • Stalling: The Rio can sometimes stall, which can be caused by a variety of issues, including a faulty ignition coil or a clogged fuel filter. It's essential to diagnose the issue correctly to ensure that it's fixed correctly.
  • Headlight and Brake Light Malfunction: The headlights and brake lights on the Rio can sometimes malfunction, which can be caused by a variety of issues, including a faulty bulb or a blown fuse. It's essential to diagnose the issue correctly to ensure that it's fixed correctly.

In summary, the Kia Rio 2010 is a reliable car, but like any other vehicle, it has its common problems. These issues can range from a bumpy ride to engine misfires, fuel leaks, and noisy power steering. It's essential to diagnose the issue correctly and ensure that it's fixed correctly to avoid further damage to the car.

2010 Kia Rio engine

Is the 2010 Kia Rio a good car?

Overall it is pleasant to drive. Fuel economy is very good and handling is secure -- though not sporty. Standard curtain airbags are a plus.

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.

How many miles will a 2010 Kia Rio last?

In the hands of a responsible owner, Kia vehicles are expected to last up to 200,000 miles. According to the accounts of owners who gave their Kias the much-needed TLC, they could get 200,000 to 250,000 miles and keep them on the road for a decade or more.

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.

2010 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:

  • Air bags problems
  • Electrical system problems
  • Engine problems
  • Service brakes problems
  • Unknown or other problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 2010 Kia Rio vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

Latest 25 complaints 2010 Kia Rio

The NHTSA has received 26 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2010 Kia Rio. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2010 Kia Rio vehicles.

2022-07-07

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2022-07-02
  • Crash: 1
  • VIN: KNADH4A36A6
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: The contact owned a 2010 Kia Rio. The contact stated that while his son was driving approximately 55 MPH, the vehicle crashed head-on into a guard rail. During the crash, the front-end of the vehicle was severely damaged; however, no air bags were deployed. No injuries were reported; however, the contact was concerned that the air bags had not been deployed to provide protection to the driver or the front seat passenger. A police report was filed. The vehicle was destroyed and towed away. The cause of the failure was not yet determined. The manufacturer and the local dealer were not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 140,000.
2019-01-26

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2013-10-16
  • VIN: KNADH4A3XA6
  • Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
  • Summary: HAVING TO REPLACE AT LEAST ONE FUEL INJECTOR EACH YEAR. USUALLY NUMBER ONE PLUG.
2018-10-04

UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2018-10-03
  • VIN: KNADH4A39A6
  • Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: AFTER DRIVING TO WORK APPROXIMATELY A 25 MINUTES TO WORK I PARKED MY VEHICLE AND SMELT SOMETHING LIKE BURNT PLASTIC. ASSUMED IT WAS SOMETHING IN THE AREA I WORK. AFTER MY SHIFT ROUGHLY 8 HOURS I HEADED HOME AND SUDDENLY THE CAR WOULD NOT GO MORE THAN 5 MILES AN HOUR THEN COMPLETELY DEAD. AFTER THE TOW TRUCKED LIFTED THE VEHICLE I WAS ABLE TO SEE SEVERE MELTING OF THE UNDERCARRIAGE PLASTIC. IT COULD HAVE BEEN SO MUCH WORSE. IT WAS TOWED TO LOCAL KIA DEALERSHIP AND HAVE NO IDEA TO WHY YET THIS HAPPENED. THIS IS AN ABSOLUTE DANGER TO JUST HAPPEN TO A WELL MAINTAINED VEHICLE RANDOMLY.
2018-03-28

UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2018-01-19
  • VIN: KNADH4A31A6
  • Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: SINCE JANUARY MY 2010 KIA RIO HAS STALLED AT TRAFFIC STOPS. IT USUALLY STARTS AGAIN AFTER SEVERAL TRIES, ALTHOUGH RECENTLY IT NEEDED A JUMP START. I'VE TAKEN IT TO THREE MECHANICS WHO ALL SAY THEY CAN'T FIND A CODE OR WHAT THE PROBLEM IS. I'VE TRIED GAS ADDITIVE, NEW CRANK SHAFT SENSOR, TUNE UP. NOTHING WORKS. I'VE CALLED KIA CUSTOMER SERVICE. THERE ARE NO RECALLS BUT I STILL HAVE A CAR I THINK IS UNSAFE TO DRIVE. I'VE STALLED IN RUSH HOUR TRAFFIC ON CITY STREETS AND STATE ROADS SEVERAL TIMES. I HAVE A CASE NUMBER WITH KIA, AND PLAN TO TAKE IT TO KIA DEALERSHIP IN ONE MORE EFFORT TO FIND CODE OR WHAT'S WRONG. I DON'T HAVE REPAIR INVOICES HANDY BUT HAVE SPENT MORE THAN $500.
2017-06-24

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2015-01-01
  • VIN: KNADH4A32A6
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: AIRBAG INDICATOR LIGHT ON.
2017-02-18

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2016-12-06
  • VIN: KNADH4A32A6
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: AIRBAG INDICATOR LIGHT ON.
2016-12-06

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2016-11-01
  • VIN: KNADH4A31A6
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE
  • Summary: WHEN DRIVING, THE CAR STALLS FOR NO REASON (THERE IS FUEL IN THE CAR, HAS REGULAR OIL CHANGES, AND A BRAND NEW BATTERY). IT TAKES A COUPLE MINUTES BEFORE THE CAR WILL RESTART. WHILE ON THE HIGHWAY, THE ENGINE LIGHT WILL COME ON AND THEN TURN RIGHT OFF, BUT THE RPM GAUGE STOPS WORKING EVEN THOUGH I AM STILL DRIVING. THERE IS A JERKING MOTION WHEN THAT HAPPENS. THIS HAPPENS ON CITY STREETS AND ON THE HIGHWAY. IT IS BECOMING UNSAFE AND THE DEALERSHIP CANNOT REPLICATE THE SITUATION. ALL THEY DO IS RUN THE CODE BUT NOTHING COMES UP. THIS HAS BEEN HAPPENING SINCE THE BEGINNING OF NOVEMBER 2016 AND HAS HAPPENED EVERY DAY SINCE THEN.THIS IS A SAFETY ISSUE BECAUSE THE CAR COULD STALL ANYTIME WHILE DRIVING AND I COULD BE SERIOUSLY HURT AND OTHER DRIVERS COULD GET HURT. *TR
2016-01-04

SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2015-12-24
  • VIN: KNADH4A36A6
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES
  • Summary: I WAS TRAVELING ABOUT 40 MPH EXITING ON THE FWY OFF RAMP WHICH TURNS TO THE RIGHT. INITIALLY MY BRAKES WORKED AND THEN IT MADE A AWFUL WINDING SOUND. THE CAR WAS GAINING SPEED AS I MADE THE TURN AND I TOTALLY LOST MY BRAKES AND HAD TO USE MY HAND BRAKE TO STOP BEFORE ALMOST RUNNING INTO THE BACK OF A CAR. I HAD MY BRAKES CHECKED AND WAS TOLD THAT MY SHOES WERE VERY GOOD BUT I WEN AHEAD AND PUT NEW ONES ON ANYWAY. I AM STILL HAVING THE SAME PROBLEM. ON THE FWY HAVING TO USE MY BRAKES AT SPEEDS OVER 40 MPH CAUSE THE SAME NOISE AND NO BRAKES UNTIL I HAVE SLOWED BELOW 40MPH.
2015-11-23

POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2015-11-16
  • VIN: KNADH4A30A6
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2010 KIA RIO. WHILE DRIVING AT APPROXIMATELY 65 MPH, THE VEHICLE MADE AN ABNORMAL NOISE AND THE ENGINE STALLED. ONCE THE ENGINE STALLED, THE VEHICLE BEGAN LEAKING TRANSMISSION FLUID. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE THE TECHNICIAN INFORMED THE CONTACT THAT THERE WAS TRANSMISSION FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED AND WAS TOWED TO THE CONTACT'S RESIDENCE. THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 11V258000 (POWER TRAIN). THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNKNOWN.
2015-09-23

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2015-09-23
  • VIN: KNADH4A35A6
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
  • Summary: MY HAD MY CAR ABOUT ONE YEAR AND IT STARTED TO LOSE POWER. WHEN I TOOK IT TO DEALERSHIP TO FIX IT I HAD TO PAY FOR TWO DIAGNOSTIC TESTS 95.00 EACH. THE PROBLEM WAS THE IGNITION COIL, SPARK PLUGS, AND EXHAUST MANIFOLD. IT IS NOW ALMOST EXACTLY ANOTHER YEAR PAST AND SAME PROBLEM BUT NOW DEALERSHIP CAN'T READ KIA CODES AND WANTS ME TO DRIVE IT 60 MILES AWAY WITH THE PROBLEM STILL HAPPENING. THE KIA DEALERSHIP MIGHT BE ABLE TO FIX BUT HAVE TO GET THE CAR THERE. I DID MY OWN DIAGNOSTIC TEST AT AUTOZONE AND A REPAIR SHOP. THEY GOT THE CODES SAYING IGNITION COIL, SPARK PLUGS, EXHAUST MANIFOLD, AND POSSIBLE CATLYTIC CONVERTER WITH AN ESTIMATE OF 1260.00
2015-02-03

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2015-01-18
  • Number Of Injuries: 1
  • Crash: 1
  • VIN: KNADH4A3XA6
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2010 KIA RIO. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 45 MPH, ATTEMPTING TO AVOID HITTING A DEER, THE VEHICLE CRASHED INTO A DITCH. IN ADDITION, THE CONTACT CRASHED INTO A GARAGE AND ANOTHER VEHICLE PARKED IN THE GARAGE. THE AIR BAGS FAILED TO DEPLOY. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED A BACK INJURY THAT REQUIRED MEDICAL ATTENTION. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 70,000.
2014-12-16

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,WHEELS,ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2014-12-15
  • VIN: KNADH4A6652
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,WHEELS,ENGINE
  • Summary: TOOK MY CAR TO GET FIXED, AND LOOKED AT THE 2ND CYL.. APPARENTLY, TONS OF PEOPLE ARE HAVING PROBLEMS WITH THE 2ND CYL. AFTER LOOKING ONLINE ABOUT IT. I HAD THEM TRY ALL MY COILS AND ITS NOT A COIL PROBLEM. I HAD ALL SPARK PLUGS CHANGED AND TUNE UP WAS DONE. THERE IS ABSOLUTELY NO REASON MY 2ND CYL. TO BE MESSED UP... ? KIA I'M SO DISAPPOINTED IN MY CAR, WHY ARE SO MANY PROBLEMS COMING UP? MY CAR IS NOT EVEN 5 YEARS OLD!!! I EXPECT TO GET ANSWERS ON THIS AND IT BE TAKEN CARE OF, I WILL NOT BE PAYING FOR SOMETHING WHEN I'VE DONE MY PART IN MAINTAIN G MY CAR. *TR
2014-09-19

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EQUIPMENT PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2014-09-01
  • VIN: KNADH4A3XA6
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EQUIPMENT
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2010 KIA RIO. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE'S CD PLAYER OVERHEATED AND PRODUCED A BURNING ODOR. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 60,000...UPDATED 10/08/14 *BF THE DEALER WANTED TO CHARGE THE CONSUMER $97.00 TO DIAGNOSE THE OBVIOUS FAULTY WIRING. UPDATED 10/21/14
2014-09-13

SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2013-05-15
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES
  • Summary: EL VEHICULO CUANDO SE FRENA EN LAS MAANA LOS FRENOS TRASEROS TRANCAN SOLO ATRAS Y EL MISMO SE BARRE EN LA CARRETERA Y ES UN PELIGRO LLEGUE A LLEVARLO A LA KIA Y ME DIJERN QUE ERA UN DEFECTO DE FABRICA Y QUE EL FABRICANTE NO VA A RESPONDER POR ESO Y DE VERDAD ES PELIGRO YA EH PASADO VARIOS SUSTOS Y CUANDO LA CARRETERA ESTA MOJA ME DA HASTA MIEDO CUANDO TENGO QUE FRENAR POR FAVOR AYUDENME SE LOA AGRADECERIA. *TR
2014-08-29

AIR BAGS,STRUCTURE,ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2014-08-27
  • Number Of Injuries: 1
  • Crash: 1
  • VIN: KNADH4A3XA6
  • Components: AIR BAGS,STRUCTURE,ENGINE
  • Summary: WE WERE INVOLVED IN AN ACCIDENT WHERE WE REAR ENDED ANOTHER VEHICLE. THE OTHER CAR WAS AT A STANDSTILL AND WE HIT THEM AT ABOUT 30 MPHS. THE DRIVER AND MYSELF BOTH HAD SEAT BELTS. THE DRIVER INJURIES HER LEFT KNEE. THE AIRBAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. I THINK THAT IF THEY DID HER KNEE MIGHT NOT HAVE BEEN INJURED BECAUSE SHE WOULD NOT HAVE SLID FORWARD UPON IMPACT.. *TR
2014-07-11

SUSPENSION,AIR BAGS,STRUCTURE,ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2014-06-30
  • Number Of Injuries: 1
  • Crash: 1
  • VIN: KNADH4A33A6
  • Components: SUSPENSION,AIR BAGS,STRUCTURE,ENGINE
  • Summary: TRAFFIC CAME TO A SUDDEN STOP, I COULD NOT STOP IN TIME. I HIT THE TIRES OF A SEMI TRAILER, THAT COLLISION THREW ME DOWN AN EMBANKMENT WHERE I HIT A TREE HEAD ON. THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. *TR
2013-03-07

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2013-03-05
  • Crash: 1
  • VIN: KNADH4A34A6
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2010 KIA RIO. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 55 MPH, THE VEHICLE ROLLED OVER AND THE AIR BAGS FAILED TO DEPLOY. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED AND THERE WERE NO INJURIES REPORTED. THE CONTACT STATED THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A SALVAGE YARD WHERE THE DEALER ADVISED THAT AN INVESTIGATOR WOULD INSPECT THE VEHICLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND A REPORT WAS FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 63,000. *TR
2013-02-21

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2013-02-19
  • Number Of Injuries: 1
  • Crash: 1
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: ON FEBRUARY 19, 2013 I WAS IN A COLLISION I HIT THE CAR FROM BEHIND AND TOTALED THE FRONT END OF MY CAR NONE OF THE AIRBAGS DEPLOYED LEAVING ME WITH NECK AND BACK INJURIES. I WANT TO KNOW WHY THEY DIDN'T DEPLOY AND WHY ISN'T OR WASN'T THERE A RECALL BECAUSE THIS IS NOT THE FIRST REPORTED INCIDENT OF NO DEPLOYMENT OF AIRBAGS. MY CAR IS 2 YEARS OLD AND THIS IS THE FIRST COLLISION THAT I HAVE EVER HAD AND FOR THE AIRBAGS TO HAVE NOT DEPLOYED LEAVES ME WITH A LOT OF CONCERNS. MY FATHER IS ACTUALLY HAVING ME CONSIDER A LAWSUIT DUE TO THE AIRBAGS NOT DEPLOYING. IM HOPING THIS WILL HELP SOMEONE ELSE BECAUSE MY WRECK WAS PRETTY SERIOUS AND I ALSO HAD MY KIDS IN THE CAR WITH ME AT THE TIME. *TR
2012-06-04

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2012-06-01
  • Number Of Injuries: 2
  • Crash: 1
  • VIN: KNADH4A36A6
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2010 KIA RIO. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE SITTING AT A TRAFFIC STOP, A TRACTOR TRAILER CRASHED INTO THE VEHICLE FROM THE REAR. THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. THE PASSENGER SUSTAINED INJURIES TO THE NECK AND SHOULDERS AND THE DRIVER SUSTAINED BACK INJURIES. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 52,980.
2011-11-29

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2011-11-24
  • Number Of Injuries: 1
  • Crash: 1
  • VIN: KNADH4A38A6
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: MY 20 YEAR OLD BROTHER WAS ON HIS WAY HOME AND LOST CONTROL ON BLACK ICE TRYING TO AVOID A DOG. HE BEGAN TO SWERVE AND SPUN OUT, RESULTING IN A SINGLE FLIP INTO A DITCH. THE FRONT END OF MY VEHICLE IS COMPLETELY DESTROYED AND BELIEVED TO BE TOTALED. THE CAR LANDED ON THE PASSENGER SIDE HEAD-FIRST IN THE DITCH. NOT A SINGLE AIRBAG DEPLOYED. I BOUGHT THIS VEHICLE FOR IT'S SAFETY FEATURES CONSIDERING THE WEATHER WHERE I LIVE. IF I HAD TAKEN MY 5 MONTH OLD DAUGHTER TO TOWN (WHICH I WAS PLANNING TO DO AFTER MY BROTHER RETURNED HOME), I HONESTLY BELIEVE SHE WOULDN'T HAVE SURVIVED IF I HAD BEEN IN A SIMILAR SITUATION TO MY BROTHER'S. I HAVE OWNED THE CAR FOR A FEW MONTHS AND IT HAD LESS THAN 10,000 MILES WHEN I BOUGHT IT. *KB
2011-10-14

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2011-02-01
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2010 KIA RIO. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE ANTI LOCK BRAKING SYSTEM WOULD ENGAGE WHENEVER SHE APPLIED THE BRAKES. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER, BUT THEY WERE UNABLE TO DIAGNOSE THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND REFERRED THE CONTACT BACK TO THE DEALER. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 9,000. THE VIN WAS UNAVAILABLE.
2011-10-12

TIRES PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2011-03-12
  • VIN: KNADH5A36A6
  • Components: TIRES
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2010 KIA RIO EQUIPPED WITH HANCOOK OPTIMOS TIRES, SIZE P185/65/R14/85H. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING VARIOUS SPEEDS, SHE NOTICED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS BOUNCING ABNORMALLY. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER WHERE THEY ADVISED HER THAT THE REAR DRIVER SIDE TIRE WAS OUT OF ROUND AND WAS UNABLE TO BE BALANCED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED AND THEY OFFERED NO ASSISTANCE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 8,000.
2010-11-23

STEERING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2010-05-07
  • VIN: KNADH5A30A6
  • Components: STEERING
  • Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2010 KIA RIO 5. WHILE THE CONTACT WAS DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 40 MPH THE VEHICLE STARTED MERGING INTO THE LEFT LANE. THE CONTACT HAD TO TURN AND HOLD THE STEERING WHEEL TO THE RIGHT IN ORDER TO CONTROL IT FROM MERGING. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER THREE TIMES AND THE TECHNICIANS STATED THAT THERE WAS NOTHING WRONG WITH THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT HAD ALSO TAKEN THE VEHICLE TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO STATED THAT THE ALIGNMENT MALFUNCTIONED. THE ALIGNMENT WAS REPAIRED BUT THE VEHICLE BEGAN PULLING TO THE LEFT MORE CONSISTENTLY. THE CONTACT TOOK THE VEHICLE TO THE MECHANIC AGAIN AND THE TECHNICIAN WAS UNABLE TO DETERMINE THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 7 MPH.
2010-10-26

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2010-10-11
  • VIN: KNADH4A30A6
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2010 KIA RIO. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FRONT PASSENGER SIDE AIR BAG MALFUNCTIONED. WHENEVER SOMEONE WAS SEATED IN THE FRONT PASSENGER SEAT THE AIR BAG WAS DEACTIVATED BUT WHEN BOOKS WERE PLACED IN THE SEAT THE AIR BAG WAS ACTIVATED. THE CONTACT HAD NOT TAKEN THE VEHICLE TO A DEALER BUT THE MANUFACTURER CONFIRMED THAT THERE WAS A PROBLEM WITH THE SENSOR IN THE SEAT. THE MANUFACTURER WILL NOT VERIFY THE WEIGHT REQUIREMENTS FOR THE FRONT PASSENGER SEAT AIR BAG. THE CONTACT STATED THIS WAS A MAJOR ISSUE AND FEARS THAT SOMEONE COULD BE KILLED IF INVOLVED IN A CRASH DUE TO THE AIR BAG NOT DEPLOYING. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS AS 50 MILES.
2010-08-05

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2010-08-05
  • VIN: KNADE223196
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: 1) THE PASSENGER "AIRBAG OFF" LIGHT ON MY NEW 2010 KIA RIO STAYS ON EVEN WHEN SOMEONE IS IN THE SEAT. THIS WITHIN FOUR WEEKS OF MY PURCHASE. 2) IT OCCURS DAILY, NUMEROUS TIMES THROUGHOUT THE DAY. 3) THE KIA DEALER HAS REFUSED TO HELP, EVEN THOUGH THE CAR HAS 4000 MILES ON IT. THEY SAY THAT IT IS ONLY HAPPENING BECAUSE WE ARE SITTING ON IT INCORRECTLY. *TR

Negative 2010 Kia Rio car reviews

  1. Louvenia Goldner 2024-09-09

    I'm glad to hear that your Kia Rio has been an excellent purchase so far! While it may be a bit cheaply made, it's great to know that any issues you've experienced have been resolved by your dealer. I'm also happy to hear that the car is overall very quiet on the highway and has good gas mileage, making it a great choice in today's economy. As a college student, it's important to have a car that fits your needs, and it sounds like the Kia Rio does just that in terms of room. Thanks for sharing your experience!

  2. Tre Rolfson 2024-08-17

    I purchased this car a month and a half ago and unfortunately, it is not starting today. Based on my assessment, it appears that the fuel pump may be the issue, despite the car only having 70k miles. However, I am confident that I will be able to resolve this issue and get my car back on the road soon.

  3. Eusebio Powlowski 2024-08-16

    I purchased this car because I needed an affordable option with a good warranty at the time. However, it did not meet my expectations. Unfortunately, I was involved in a minor accident where I hit another car at 10 miles per hour, and the ball joint broke completely. My husband, who is an ASE certified master technician, was surprised by the poor quality of the car and believes that the ball joint broke first, causing the accident. Although it was fuel-efficient, I recently replaced it with a beautiful Mazda crossover, and I am much happier now!

  4. Quinn Schimmel 2024-04-02

    I bought this car about a month ago and overall I'm happy with it. However, I have noticed a strange squeaky noise coming from the rear brakes. Despite taking it to different places, no one has been able to identify the issue. While the car is not luxurious and has a simple interior, it is perfect for my daily commute. The fuel economy is decent and the car is quiet on both streets and highways. The only downside is that the tires are a bit small. Overall, I think the car offers good value for the money. I really like my car and I'm hopeful that we can find a solution to the brake issue soon.

  5. Helmer Kunze 2024-03-06

    It's great to hear that your wife loves her Rio 5! Although it's unfortunate that you had to replace the transmission so early on. It sounds like it's a nice car to drive around town, but I can understand how living in the Ga. mountains would require more power under the hood. It's impressive that you're getting an average of 30 MPG, especially considering where you live. I hope the new transmission lasts and that you continue to enjoy the car. Thank you for sharing your experience!

Positive 2010 Kia Rio car reviews

  1. Brent Krajcik 2024-10-06

    I'm glad to hear that you're enjoying your Kia Rio! It sounds like it's spacious, quiet, and fuel-efficient, which are all great qualities to have in a car.

  2. Brennon Stracke 2024-08-01

    I got a used 2009 Kia Rio sedan. At first, I was scared because it was my first car in high school, but I have had no problems with it since. It is a nice red color and had about 35,000 miles when I got it. Now, it has 200,000 miles and still runs great. If this car ever breaks down, I will definitely get another one. It's a smooth ride and feels like a small sports car. I highly recommend this car!

  3. Murphy Altenwerth 2024-07-21

    My 2009 Rio manual is amazing! I affectionately call her 'golf cart' due to her small stature. I purchased her off Facebook Marketplace four years ago for $1500 with 112,000 miles on the clock. She only needed a new starter and the radio/AC didn't work, but that just added to her charm! After graduating high school, I couldn't afford much, so if she needed any expensive repairs, I would have been out of luck. Luckily, my little Rio has been so good to me. I commute a good amount with college/work, so I've put 40k miles on her since. The gas mileage is so good with this car, and it's basically the size of a golf cart, so you can park just about anywhere and maneuver really easily. The lights are automatic, which is incredibly helpful for an airhead ADHD sufferer like me. The interior is definitely small, but as a smaller woman, I can see and fit better this way. If you are a larger individual, you may not feel the same. When driving faster than 60, the engine is loud. At about 70mph, she starts to yell because she's sitting at 4RPM. But my girl isn't a track star, she has 110 horsepower, so it isn't built to go fast and furious. The cloth seats are pretty awful if you don't have AC, your car WILL smell like swass. However, I bought washable pleather seat covers, so that isn't a problem for me anymore. I also replaced the broken radio with a fancy Bluetooth one for like $100. It helps to know a local redneck who will install it for a case of beer. He didn't complain about it, so I'm assuming it wasn't that hard. She handles okay in the snow/ice, I think. I live in Wisconsin/Minnesota, so I KNOW snow. I make sure I have good tires, though, because that significantly makes a difference. The only problem would be if you go in the ditch, you will not be able to get out because she is not strong. But just don't go in, and you'll be fine lol.This car burns oil, but it's not a big deal since I usually need an oil change around the same time. I had to replace the clutch at 130k, but that's because I was still learning how to drive stick. I also had to replace the starter and a wheel bearing at around 150k, and my transmission may need to be replaced at some point since it grinds when downshifting to 3rd gear. However, I've found a solution for now by not downshifting to third. I know I'll have to replace the timing belt eventually, but I'll deal with that when the time comes. Despite all of this, I absolutely love this car. It's the first thing I've ever truly owned and it has never left me stranded. I'm emotionally attached to it and I plan on keeping it alive for as long as possible. If you're a broke high school/college/early 20s aged person, I highly recommend getting your own golf cart. It's been a great investment for me!

  4. London Keeling 2024-04-27

    I just bought a new 2009 Kia Rio LX. I love the look and feel of this vehicle and for the size I believe it is a great buy. However, I am a little disappointed with the mpg and I believe it should be getting well over 30 for how small of a vehicle it is. Overall, I think that this is a great car that drives well and looks sharp.

  5. Stephen Connelly 2024-04-21

    I can't find any fault with the build quality. Things shut and reveal gaps are very precise. However, the motor in 5th gear turns much higher than I would expect for the required torque and horsepower. It seems like it needs a 6th gear.

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Additional sources

More sources of information about 2010 Kia Rio problems:

Kia rio 2010 reliable? : r/whatcarshouldIbuy
Kia rio 2010 reliable? : r/whatcarshouldIbuy
https://www.reddit.com/r/whatcarshouldIbuy/comments/115ydtb/kia_rio_2010_reliable/

Feb 19, 2023 ... What i do as well, is I'll search the year and model on Google and go read through forums for common known issues. I usually shop for ...

Kia Rio: Common Problems and Solutions | BreakerYard.com
Kia Rio: Common Problems and Solutions | BreakerYard.com
https://www.breakeryard.com/car-parts/kia/rio/common-problems

Kia Rio Common Problems and Solutions · Bumpy Ride · Illuminated ABS Light · Excessive Vibration · Engine Misfire · Fuel Leak · Noisy Power Steering · Stalling ...

2010 Kia Rio Problems and Complaints - 4 Issues
2010 Kia Rio Problems and Complaints - 4 Issues
https://repairpal.com/2010-kia-rio/problems

Problem with your 2010 Kia Rio? Our list of 4 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 2010 Kia Rio.

2010 Kia Rio | Read Owner Reviews, Prices, Specs
2010 Kia Rio | Read Owner Reviews, Prices, Specs
https://www.vehiclehistory.com/report/kia/rio/2010

Cute little compact car with great gas mileage. Beware of issues with coil packs. I have had a lot of issues with the coil packs going bad on the vehicle, as ...

KIA RIO 2010 ECU problem | Kia Forum
KIA RIO 2010 ECU problem | Kia Forum
https://www.kia-forums.com/threads/kia-rio-2010-ecu-problem.357100/

May 23, 2022 ... It sounds like a bad ground or power connection, and if you're not a DIY'er, then I advise that you find a good Auto-Elec shop, not a mechanic.

Other years of Kia Rio

kia rio 2011 photo
Rio 2011
Kia

22

0

16

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
kia rio 2012 photo
Rio 2012
Kia

46

1

17

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
kia rio 2013 photo
Rio 2013
Kia

142

1

15

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
kia rio 2014 photo
Rio 2014
Kia

48

1

17

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
kia rio 2015 photo
Rio 2015
Kia

48

1

18

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
kia rio 2016 photo
Rio 2016
Kia

67

2

26

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1

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