2020 Kia Rio problems
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Common 2020 Kia Rio problems
The Kia Rio 2020 has several common problems that have been reported by owners. One of the most reported issues is a bumpy ride, which is often caused by suspension issues. The early models of the Rio had constant problems with the suspension, and if your car has a very bumpy ride, it's likely that the suspension has worn out. Replacing a suspension system is a significant job, but there are online guides available that can help you through the process.
Another common problem with the Kia Rio 2020 is an illuminated ABS light, which indicates that there is a problem with the anti-lock braking system. This issue is often caused by a broken sensor on the back wheel that is attached to the bearing. This is a relatively easy fix, and replacement sensors are readily available online.
Excessive vibration is another common problem with the Kia Rio 2020, which can be caused by a failed rear shock rubber mounting. This issue can lead to a weakened steering turn and quicker tire wear. Replacement units for the rear shock rubber mounting are available, and it's also worth checking the rear wheel bearings as they may have developed a fault due to the degraded rubber mountings.
The Kia Rio 2020 is also known for engine misfires and rough idling, which is often caused by worn-out spark plugs. If your engine is misfiring and idling roughly, then the cause is likely to be the spark plugs. Replacement spark plugs are available, but it's also worth checking the spark plug wiring as this may have also been damaged.
Fuel leaks are another common problem with the Kia Rio 2020, which can be caused by a cracked inlet nipple on the fuel distribution rack. This issue can lead to a fire hazard, and it's essential to resolve this issue as quickly as possible. A distribution rail and fuel supply pipe will need to be ordered from the parts list, but these are easier to fit than you might think.
Noisy power steering is also a common problem with the Kia Rio 2020, which can be caused by a failed power steering pump or a leak in the power steering system. This issue can make the car difficult to steer and may require a replacement power steering pump or a repair to the power steering system.
Finally, headlight and brake light malfunctions are also common problems with the Kia Rio 2020, which can be caused by a faulty bulb or a wiring issue. This issue can make the car difficult to drive at night and may require a replacement bulb or a repair to the wiring.
In conclusion, while the Kia Rio 2020 is a reliable car, there are several common problems that have been reported by owners. These issues include a bumpy ride, an illuminated ABS light, excessive vibration, engine misfires, fuel leaks, noisy power steering, and headlight and brake light malfunctions. While some of these issues are relatively easy to fix, others may require more significant repairs. If you own a Kia Rio 2020, it's essential to be aware of these common problems and to address them promptly to ensure the safety and reliability of your vehicle.
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.
Does 2020 Kia Rio have transmission problems?
If you don't routinely and repeatedly change your fluids at least every 30,000 miles or so, you may find that your 2020 Kia Rio transmission will quickly slip.
Is a 2020 Kia Rio a safe car?
The IIHS has rated the Rio a Top Safety Pick, although with only an 'Acceptable'? score in the passenger-side small overlap test that mimics impact with a stationary object or an oncoming car.
Is the Kia Rio engine reliable?
Key Takeaways: 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.
2020 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:
- Unknown or other problems
- Engine problems
- Steering problems
- Power train problems
- Service brakes problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2020 Kia Rio vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
2020 Kia Rio complaints
The NHTSA has received 20 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2020 Kia Rio.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-08
- 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.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-07-05
- VIN: 3KPA24AD8LE
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: When I first purchased the car less than 90 days the engine light came on rook back to the dealership and notified Kia they didn't know why the engine light came on they said just drive it then I later told then engine light came on again and it act to over heat they said they had no signs when they did a diagnostic test they. I reported when the ac is on the engine light comes on and the car hesitates as if to stall they still saying they see nothing to indicate any problems there is problems also the back up camera stopped working the Kia customer service representative suggested to take it to another dealership the car has been to 2 different dealerships Langdale Kia Valdosta Georgia and Roundtree Moore Lake city Florida
STEERING,POWER TRAIN,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-09-01
- VIN: 3KPA24AD8LE
- Components: STEERING,POWER TRAIN,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: I believe my Kia Rio S falls victim to the recall 2020 Kia Rio models have faced. Brake performance has been severely degraded on my vehicle over the past few weeks despite doing all recommended maintenance. When I first got my 2020 Kia Rio S I could brake with 5% pressure applied to the brakes, now it takes about 25-30% pressure and it seemingly is increasing every day. I have contacted the manufacturer and they advised me it would be a $2000 service charge minimum.
STEERING,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-09-03
- VIN: 3KPA24AD7LE
- Components: STEERING,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: My vehicle driver rear window was broken, steer column and stolen case # [XXX] I also own a vin # [XXX] and [XXX] . Please contact me [XXX] [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-08-09
- VIN: 3KPA24AD4LE
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: My car acted like it haD a dead battery. This happened once before and after about 10 minutes when I tried starting it it started with no problems. this happened a couple of months the ago. This time, as I was sitting in the car the seat belt light came on but I couldn't wait for the issue to resolve.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-05-06
- VIN: 3KPA24AD9LE
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: I was driving at just over 20,000 miles, when cylinder 4 decided to go out of the bottom of my engine. They had to put a completely brand new motor in my car. So, what's stopping it from doing it again. There's other cars listed in a Kia/Hyundai settlement, but the Kia Ria is not listed.
STEERING,SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-05-01
- VIN: 3KPA24AD8LE
- Components: STEERING,SUSPENSION
- Summary: There has not been an incident yet but i don’t know who else to talk to. I am a FedEx Delivery driver and driver the largest Delivery truck made for FedEx and am fine with it ask day. However, the steering on my car is down right dangerous. My car drifts all over the road. It is ten times harder to keep my little cat on the road than my big work truck. So hard in fact that i have resorted to this. I am a good driver never even a ticket so i know how to drive. It’s not my driving please listen when i tell you something is WAY wrong with the steering or suspension or both on this vehicle. Just drive one and you will see very quickly what i am saying i promise!
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-05-02
- VIN: 3KPA24AD0LE
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: The Passenger Headlight has water inside it, and water vapor. The connections for the light blubs is corroding.
POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-05-02
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 3KPA24AD2LE
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The contact owns a 2020 Kia Rio. The contact stated the vehicle was parked at her residence, when entering inside the cab, she noticed the gear shaft was melted. The contact stated she did not visibly see fire. The police did come to her residence and informed the cause of the fire was an electronic failure but they do not file any fire reports. The contact did not contact the fire department. The vehicle was not drivable. The contact towed the vehicle to a local dealer and was made aware of the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The vehicle was towed back to her residence. The manufacturer had not been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-12-09
- VIN: 3kpa24ad2le
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: marker lights on the right side won't work both went off line and licence light same side is out same time and bulbs ,fuse replaced and still not working the kia service will not fix in kia of manharttan in kansas andi have 68,000 miles and they didn't offer a basic warrantty to be long when online for my my car and suppose to be under warranty for 110;00
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-12-27
- VIN: 3kpa25ad2le
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: Rear ended a car at 60 mph on black ice and the air bags did not deploy
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-07-23
- VIN: 3KPA24AD1LE
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: My Kia Rio 2020 had the check engine light come on today. The engine coolant temperature gauge went all the way to the Hot mark. The car is one year old and and has 60093 miles on it. The dealership Demontrond Kia refused to repair it under warranty. I called Kia corporate and was told the same thing. This is unacceptable. My expectation is that they will repair this issue for no cost. As all maintenance has been done at the dealership. I have not noticed any fluid leaks nor have I been told when at the dealership about any fluid loss.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-03-03
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 3kpa24ad1le
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: The contact owns a 2020 Kia Rio. The contact stated that he was a former service technician and that while driving and stopping at a stoplight, the traffic light turned green and the contact depressed the accelerator pedal however, the vehicle idled and stalled for a few seconds before inadvertently accelerating and crashing into the vehicle in front. The contact stated that the failure recurred intermittently on several occasions. The contact attempted to take the vehicle to the local dealer to be inspected however, the dealer was unable to inspect the vehicle for a month. The vehicle was not diagnosed nor repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 41,714.
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-05-25
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 3KPA25AD5LE
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2020 Kia Rio. The contact stated while driving through an intersection, another vehicle ran a red light and crashed into the left front passenger side of the vehicle. The contact stated that the seat belt detached from the base. The air bags failed to deploy. A police report was filed. The contact sustained broken teeth, a split tongue, a broken hand, a concussion, and an abdominal contusion that required medical attention. The vehicle was not drivable and was towed to an impound lot. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. A dealer was not contacted. The manufacturer had not been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was 5,000.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-02-01
- VIN: 3KPA24AD1LE
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: my 2020 kia rio pulls to the left. it is not the tires the wheel alignment or the brakes. it has electronic power steering. other 2020 kia rios built after mine were fixed with a download. the car is dangerous so i drive in the right lane.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-02-10
- VIN: 3KPA24AD3LE
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING, MY 2020 KIA RIO HAS STALLED WHEN ACCELERATING WHILE TURNING AT A TRAFFIC LIGHT AND WHILE ATTEMPTING TP PASS A CAR ON INTERSTATE. ALSO SEVERAL TIME WHEN JNUST DRIVING. VERY SCARY FEELING.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-12-28
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 3KPA24AD9LE
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: MY CAR WAS PARKED AT MY PLACE AFTER GETTING OUT OF IT AROUND 8:30AM. I RETURNED TO MY VEHICLE AT 12PM AND THE INSIDE WAS BURNT BECAUSE A FIRE STARTED IN THE MIDDLE CONSUL.*DT*JB
VISIBILITY/WIPER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-01-20
- VIN: 3KPA24AD3LE
- Components: VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: WIND SHIELD FLUID DISAPPEARS WHEN DRIVEN WITHOUT USE. CONTINUALLY FILLING RES. AND WITHIN 10-15 MILES FLUID DISAPPEARS. WE CANNOT TELL IF THERE IS FLUID IN THE TANK IF NEEDED AND COULD CAUSE VISIBILLITY PROBLEMS WHILE DRIVING..
UNKNOWN OR OTHER,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-09-24
- VIN: 3KPA24AD1LE
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: I CALLED THE DEALERSHIP ABOUT MY BRAKE PROBLEM FIVE DAYS AGO ABOUT THE BRAKES GOING DOWN TO THE FLOOR ALMOST I WAS TOLD BY THE SERVICE MANAGER THAT WAS A SAFETY ISSUE SO HE GAVE ME THEIR ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE NUMBER YOBE PICKED UP THEY DID ON FRIDAY MORNING 9/25/20 THE CAR WAS DELIVERED AND THE SERVICE MANAGER SAID HE WOULD CALL ME THAT DAY ABOUT THE PROBLEM BUT I HAVE NOT HEARD FROM HIM I COULD ONLY GET RECORDING ABOUT MAKING AN APPOINTMENT I TALKED TO THE FINANCE MANAGER ABOUT THE BRAKES CAUSING A FIRE ON OTHER SAME BRAND VEHICLES HE TOLD ME TO WAIT FOR THE SERVICE REPORT THE CAR WAS MOVING AFRIEND ALSO COMMENTED ON THE BRAKES ALSO AFTER THE CAR WENT TO DEALERSHIP SHA CHECKED ON IT AND CAME UP WITH THE NEWS REPORT IN HOUSTON ABOUT THE SAFETY ISSUE
WHEELS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-07-05
- VIN: 3KPA24AC9LE
- Components: WHEELS
- Summary: I BOUGHT A NEW KIA RIO, AFTER JUST 300 KILOMETERS OF USE A TIRE EXPLOTED WHEN I WAS DRIVING, I WENT TO KIA DEALER TO REPORT THE INCIDENT, AFTER DAYS THE KIA ANSWER WAS THAT IT WAS MY FAULT MAYBE BEACUSE I DROVE WITH LOW PRESSURE IN THAT TIRE OR I HIT AN EDGE OR I HIT A HOLE BUT NONE OF THOSE THREE THINGS HAPPENED. IN THE PICTURES YOU CAN SEE HOW THE CUT OF THE EXPLOTION IS ALIGNED WITH A METALLIC PART INSTALLED IN THE WHEEL. WHEN EXPLOTION OF TIRE OCCURRED I WAS DRIVING IN A HIGHWAY, THIS WAS A DANGEROUS SITUATION AND MY SAFETY WAS IN RISK. TIRE INFORMATION: BRAND: NEXEN, MODEL: NBLUE HD, SERIAL: DOT 8ELX LABR 4619, CODE: NEXOE306, DESCRIPTION: 185/65R15 88H NBLUE HD
2020 Kia Rio recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 2020 Kia Rio.
- Manufacturer: Kia Motors America
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:MASTER CYLINDER
- Summary: Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Rio vehicles. The brake master cylinder may have been manufactured with sharp edges that can damage the inner oil seal, resulting in reduced braking performance.
- Consequence: Reduced braking performance can cause longer brake pedal travel or extend the distance required to stop the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the brake master cylinder, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 11, 2022. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall SC223.
Negative 2020 Kia Rio car reviews
Positive 2020 Kia Rio car reviews
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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!
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This is my 3rd new Kia, and all of them have been white. I'm happy to say that this one did not disappoint!
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Hey there! I hope you're okay after your accident in the rain. I'm glad to hear that the side bags deployed and saved your life. It's always tough to say goodbye to a car, but I'm happy to hear that you'll be getting the same model, just newer. Take care!
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I hope you're doing well! I just wanted to share my experience with the 2019 Kia Rio. I've had mine for about 3 months now and I'm really enjoying it. It's affordable, comfortable, and reliable - everything you could want in a car! While it's not a racecar, the sport mode is definitely a fun feature. Overall, I've been really impressed with Kia and would highly recommend the Rio to anyone in the market for a new car.
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Upgrade to get Cruise Control and remote locking doors.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2020 Kia Rio problems:
2020 Kia Rio Problems | Kelley Blue Book
How reliable is the 2020 Kia Rio? See the most common repairs performed and learn if your vehicle is at risk for major repairs in the next 12 months.
2020 Kia Rio IVT Transmission: Explained & Common Problems
Nov 20, 2021 ... When I purchased it, the shift position indicator light in the speedometer cluster was flashing. Took it to Kia because it was covered under ...
2020 Kia Rio Reliability - Consumer Reports
Reduced braking performance can cause longer brake pedal travel or extend the distance required to stop the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash. Read ...
2020 Kia Rio Consumer Reviews | Cars.com
The engine knocks loud, has no power, poor fuel economy. The transmission is slow to shift, when it is below 39 deg F the transmission wont go over 5 mph at ...
Kia Rio reliability : r/kia
Apr 6, 2023 ... I've got a 2020, I think they're still on the same engine and transmission in 2023. No issues for me so far (aside from the increased risk of ...
Other years of Kia Rio
Are you having problems with your 2020 Kia Rio?
Makenna Strosin 2024-10-28
Driving in windy conditions can be challenging, especially when it comes to handling your vehicle. It's important to take extra precautions and adjust your driving accordingly to ensure your safety and the safety of others on the road.
Hazel Boyle 2024-08-25
I've been renting the S from Dollar for 3 weeks now and I'm currently in week 2. Here are some of the pros: it has Android Auto, a large trunk, reasonable gas consumption, and a decent reversing camera. However, there are also some cons to consider. The auto box is a bit outdated, and the gas engine technology is from the 1990s. The acceleration is best described in fractions of a day, and it can be quite noisy under acceleration. The headlights are diabolically poor (in my view, dangerously poor) and similar to those found in 1970-1980 autos. The ride and handling are both poor, which is quite an achievement. I haven't seen the Skoda Fabia here in the US, but I imagine it would outperform this car in every way, being more reliable and probably more economical on gas.
Sigurd Bartoletti 2024-08-19
It can be really tough to keep your vehicle on the road when it's windy.
Angus Hermiston 2024-04-25
I recently purchased a 2020 Reo and noticed that it lacks some safety features that I was expecting. While it may not be a big deal to some, I was surprised to find out that the doors do not automatically lock when driving, and the dome light does not dim down when entering the car. As someone who commutes in the dark, these features are important to me. Interestingly, my manual states that the car locks when put in drive and that the dome light has a 30-second delay, but unfortunately, the dealership confirmed that this is not the case. These are just a few things to keep in mind when considering the 2020 Reo.
Porter Ferry 2024-04-16
Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I wanted to touch base with you about your car. I understand that you bought it with the intention of using it for your daily commute, but it seems like you're having some trouble with the gas mileage and stability. That can definitely be frustrating! Have you considered taking it to a mechanic to see if there's anything that can be done to improve the gas mileage? As for the stability issue, have you tried driving at a slightly slower speed to see if that helps? I know it can be nerve-wracking to drive over bridges when it's windy, but safety always comes first. On the bright side, I'm glad to hear that you're enjoying the interior of the car and find it cute. Let me know if there's anything else I can do to help!