Kia Rondo problems
The Kia Carens (Korean: 기아 카렌스) is a compact car (C-segment) manufactured by Kia since 1999, spanning over four generations, and was marketed worldwide under various nameplates, prominently as the Kia Rondo. The initial three generations had a MPV body style and were marketed worldwide, with presence in its home country South Korea, in Europe, and North America since the second-generation. The fourth-generation model took a different approach in terms of design and targeted markets, as it was developed as a "strategic model" for the Indian market. It also adopts a crossover-inspired exterior design.
The name "Carens" derives from the word "car" and "renaissance", while the name "Rondo" derives from the musical term Rondo.
First generation (RS/FJ; 1999)
Kia debuted the first generation model of Carens, the RS series in May 1999. It is based on the same platform as the Kia Sephia. A facelift was issued in 2002.
The model was discontinued in Australia in 2001, with production continuing elsewhere for the updated model which was launched in 2002.
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Kia Rondo model years
Common Kia Rondo problems
The Kia Rondo has been known to have several common problems, primarily related to its engine, air conditioning (A/C), and power steering systems.
- A/C Making Noise (2010 Rondo): This issue is the second most reported problem for the 2010 Kia Rondo, with an average cost to fix of $1,400 and an average mileage of 87,000 miles. This problem can be a major inconvenience for owners, as it affects the comfort of the vehicle and can be costly to repair.
- Engine Seized (2012 Rondo): This issue is the third most reported problem for the 2012 Kia Rondo, with an average cost to fix of $5,000 and an average mileage of 49,000 miles. This problem can be a major concern for owners, as it involves a significant repair cost and can occur at relatively low mileage.
- Loss of Power Steering (2009 Rondo): This issue is the most reported problem for the 2009 Kia Rondo, with a total of 8 complaints. This problem can be a major safety concern for owners, as it can make the vehicle difficult to control and increase the risk of accidents.
- Cloth Seats Show Water Stains Easily (2008 Rondo): This issue is one of the most reported problems for the 2008 Kia Rondo, with a total of 2 complaints. This problem can be a major inconvenience for owners, as it affects the appearance of the vehicle and can be difficult to clean.
- Broken Springs (2008 Rondo): This issue is one of the most reported problems for the 2008 Kia Rondo, with a total of 2 complaints. This problem can be a major safety concern for owners, as it can affect the stability of the vehicle and increase the risk of accidents.
These common problems with the Kia Rondo have been reported by owners and can be a cause for concern for potential buyers. It is important to consider these issues and their potential impact on the reliability and durability of the vehicle when making a purchasing decision.
Is the Kia Rondo a good vehicle?
Overview. Smartly styled and somewhat unusual, the Rondo has acceptable handling, optional seven-passenger seating, and tons of practicality. Its only real competitor, the Mazda 5, is more fun, but agreeable prices and good build quality make the Rondo a solid choice for practicality seekers.
How long can a Kia Rondo last?
Let's get right to the chase: how long do Kias 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.
What is the problem with the Kia Rondo 2.4 engine?
Summary: KIA IS RECALLING 6,680 MY 2008-2009 RONDO LX AND EX VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH A 2.4 LITER ENGINE. THE FUEL PUMP MAY NOT OPERATE PROPERLY RESULTING IN NOT ENOUGH FUEL GETTING TO THE ENGINE. POOR ENGINE STARTING, ENGINE HESITATION, AND OTHER IMPAIRMENT MAY RESULT, AND THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT MAY ILLUMINATE.
Are there any recalls on the Kia Rondo?
Kia Motors Corporation (Kia) is recalling certain model year 2007-2010 Rondo and Sportage, model year 2007-2011 Sorento, model year 2007 Sedona, model year 2010-2011 Soul, and model year 2011 Optima vehicles. The stop lamp switch in the affected vehicles may malfunction.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Kia Rondo years
We have researched Kia problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Kia Rondo cars and compiled the top 4 most problematic Kia Rondo model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Kia Rondo model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Kia Rondo years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Kia Rondo car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Kia Rondo , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Air bags problems
- Steering problems
- Engine problems
- Service brakes problems
- Electrical system problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Kia Rondo vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Rondo model years
A total of 33 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 Rondo model years
There were a total of 2 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 Rondo model years
There were a total of 24 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 Rondo model years
There were a total of 1 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 295 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Kia Rondo . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Kia Rondo vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Kia Rondo 2008
- Date Of Incident: 2023-11-14
- Date Complaint: 2023-11-17
- VIN: KNAFG525087
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, AIR
- Summary: The contact owns a 2008 Kia Rondo. The contact stated that while driving approximately 24 MPH, the brake pedal was depressed but the vehicle failed to stop immediately as intended. The vehicle was steered to the side of the road and turned off. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed and determined that the ABS pump needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 166,000.
Kia Rondo 2009
- Date Of Incident: 2023-10-20
- Date Complaint: 2023-10-23
- VIN: KNAFG526897
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2009 Kia Rondo. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked and turned off, the exterior brake lights remained illuminated. Additionally, the ESC warning light was illuminated while driving. The contact had to depress the brake pedal three times to turn off the exterior brake lights. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 150,000.
Kia Rondo 2008
- Date Of Incident: 2023-09-04
- Date Complaint: 2023-09-09
- VIN: KNAFG526187
- Components: SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE
- Summary: After hearing a popping in my front end for two days I took my car into my mechanic. He took a look at it and said he’d never seen anything like it before. My stabilizer bar had completely ripped apart from my subframe. He said the metal was as thin as a few pieces of paper and there was rust. He contacted Kia to see if there were any campaigns on my car and there was one for an anti corrosion coating that was not applied. I took my car to my local Kia dealership and they were not interested in helping and said they couldn’t even look at it for diagnosis for at least a month and even then didn’t know if they would cover it. I am 38 weeks pregnant and have two small children and my mechanic said it was a major safety issue to drive it as is. I contacted Kia corporate and they informed me that it would be covered but I would have to get it diagnosed at a dealership first or pay for it out of pocket. I’ve contacted every dealership within two hours of me and they have all said they can’t help or haven’t gotten back to me. Kia says they can’t be of more help because each dealership is independently owned.
Kia Rondo 2009
- Date Of Incident: 2021-06-16
- Date Complaint: 2023-03-01
- VIN: KNAFG528X97
- Components: STEERING,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE
- Summary: No compression in cylinder 3 due to oil drainage in spark plug panel caused Loss of motive power and Almost a wreck so to vehicle shutting down on the interstate . As I look I see that this is in investigation already and needs to be took into consideration as soon as possible if our lives really matter to Kia as your customers . So very sad how the engines and fuel systems are on kias
Kia Rondo 2009
- Date Of Incident: 2022-09-08
- Date Complaint: 2023-01-01
- VIN: KNAFG529297
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKES,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
- Summary: I had to replace the tires on this car several times in 3 years. They alarm had a glitch that the car would not start and you had to take it specifically to a Kia dealer to have they alarm reprogrammed. Even upon repairs to your local mechanic. Costing them more money and me more money because they could not get in the car by pass they alarm without using kia first to reprogram it. The brakes locked up. The lights woukd go off for airbag and stay on. The anti lick brake light would stay on .. Very dangerous. I had to spend more money to because of they alarm. Even just replacing the battery in the alarm remote cost more money for the remote and the programming of the remote . You could not just replace the battery. The tires and brakes gave me several issues in 3 years To the tube of close 3000. And that's being fair.
Kia Rondo 2007
- Date Of Incident: 2022-09-15
- Date Complaint: 2022-11-15
- VIN: KNAFG526577
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2007 Kia Rondo. The contact stated while driving 25 MPH, the traction control warning light and driver's side air bag warning light illuminated. The contact was able to continue driving. The contact became aware of Kia Independent Recall Campaign Number: SC094 (Clock Spring Assembly Replacement). The vehicle was taken to the local dealer who informed the contact that they could not assist as the VIN was a Canadian VIN. The contact was referred to Kia Canada for recall information. The contact then contacted Kia Canada who informed her that the vehicle was previously serviced under the independent recall. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 140,000.
Kia Rondo 2007
- Date Of Incident: 2022-09-19
- Date Complaint: 2022-09-20
- VIN: KNAFG525777
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: NHTSA ID Number: 11476858 Brake lights will not go off.I found white Plastic nylon washer broke into many pieces in floor board mat. It is the Brake pedal pad stop washer. After researching, This is a common issue with these vehicles. This defective component has a high probabilty of causing rear end collisions due to the Brake lights staying on. NHTSA should do a safety recall on these vehicles.
Kia Rondo 2007
- Date Of Incident: 2022-07-25
- Date Complaint: 2022-08-01
- VIN: KNAFG525877
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2007 Kia Rondo. The contact stated that while operating the vehicle, the brake lights remained illuminated at all time. Additionally, the brake lights also remained illuminated while the vehicle was turned off. The fuse was removed to turn the brake lights off. The cause of the failure was not determined. The manufacturer and local dealer were not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.
Kia Rondo 2009
- Date Of Incident: 2022-03-31
- Date Complaint: 2022-04-05
- VIN: KNAFG528X97
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: I am reporting premature sub frame corrosion. The corroded area would cause a safety hazard if the corroded part of the frame broke all the way off as a result of hitting a large bump or perhaps a big pothole. Fortunately i discovered the problem when I was getting the tires balanced. I will no longer drive the vehicle until it is repaired safely.
Kia Rondo 2009
- Date Of Incident: 2021-03-04
- Date Complaint: 2022-03-11
- VIN: KNAFG528997
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Engine Star making very loud noise. Will driving. Mechanic told me engine is damaged and need replacement
Kia Rondo 2007
- Date Of Incident: 2021-06-03
- Date Complaint: 2021-06-03
- VIN: KNAFG525977
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? 2.4L Theta engine has developed a knocking sound at 155,600 miles. Oil consumption is excessive. Currently vehicle has Pennzoil Platinum High Mileage 5W20 oil. It has been approximately 5600 miles since last oil and filter change, and vehicle was 2 qts low. Knocking sound is consistent with what others have reported with the later 2.4L Theta II engine. Symptom is consistent with spun rod bearing. It is currently available for inspection, pending me selling the car. How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? Car is a serious risk of stalling. Has previously stalled before. Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? No. Selling dealership is under different ownership and has disavowed prior ownership. Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others? No. Were there any warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, and when did they first appear? None.
Kia Rondo 2007
- Date Of Incident: 2021-04-08
- Date Complaint: 2021-04-20
- VIN: KNAFG526777
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: THE A/C LINE DRAINES ONTO THE FRONT SUBFRAME. DOING THIS I BELIEVE HAS CAUSED IT TO RUST OVER THE YEARS. NOW IT IS NOT SAFE TO DRIVE FOR FEAR THAT THE ENGINE OR FRONT CONTROL WILL BRING THE CAR TO A HALT. IT MAY CAUSE A SERIOUS ACCIDENT
Kia Rondo 2009
- Date Of Incident: 2021-01-04
- Date Complaint: 2021-01-08
- VIN: KNAFG528X97
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: MY HUSBAND WAS SITTING IN OUR KIA, IN PARK AND CAR TURNED OFF, WHEN HE HEARD A LOUD SNAPPING SOUND. CAR TOWED TO SHOP RESULTED IN MECHANIC STATING OUR FRONT DRIVER STRUT "EXPLODED" INTO SEVERAL PIECES. LUCKY WE WERE NOT DRIVING WHEN IT HAPPENED, HE STATED. NEVER HAD A CAR DO THIS BEFORE, EVER!
Kia Rondo 2008
- Date Of Incident: 2020-06-10
- Date Complaint: 2020-12-16
- VIN: KNAFG525087
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: MY VEHICLE REVES UP HIGH WHEN I START IT AND WHEN I'M ON THE HIGHWAY IT WOULD JUST CUT OFF AND THERE'S GAS FUMES I SMELLINSIDE MY KIA, IT ALSO HESITATES WHILE DRIVING.
Kia Rondo 2008
- Date Of Incident: 2020-08-16
- Date Complaint: 2020-11-16
- VIN: KNAFG525087
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: MY RONDO SPEEDS UP WHILE I'M DRIVING IT ON THE ROAD, AND IT SMELLS OF GAS INSIDE MY RONDO, IT RUNS HIGH WHEN I START IT AND THERE'S A HESITATION BEFORE IT DRIVES.
Latest 5 recalls Kia Rondo
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 10 recalls for different components of the Kia Rondo.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Kia Rondo 2010
- 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 Rondo 2007
- Report Received Date: 2013-04-01
- Manufacturer: Kia Motors Corporation
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING:BRAKE LIGHTS:SWITCH
- Summary: Kia Motors Corporation (Kia) is recalling certain model year 2007-2010 Rondo, model year 2007-2011 Sedona, Sorento and Sportage, model year 2010-2011 Soul, model year 2008-2011 Optima, model year 2010 Forte, model year 2007-2009 Amanti, and model year 2009 Borrego vehicles. Originally, in April 2013, Kia recalled 623,658 model year 2007-2010 Rondo and Sportage, model year 2007-2011 Sorento, model year 2007 Sedona, model year 2010-2011 Soul, and model year 2011 Optima vehicles. In September 2013, Kia informed the agency that it was adding an additional 356,719 vehicles to this campaign. The total number of vehicles being recalled is now 980,377. In the affected vehicles, the stop lamp switch may malfunction. A malfunctioning stop lamp switch may cause the brake lights to not illuminate when the brake pedal is depressed or may cause an inability to deactivate the cruise control by depressing the brake pedal. Additionally, a malfunctioning stop lamp switch may also result in intermittent operation of the push-button start feature, affect the operation of the brake-transmission shift interlock feature preventing the shifter from being moved out of the PARK position and cause the Electronic Stability Control (ESC) malfunction light to illuminate.
- Consequence: Failure to illuminate the stop lamps during braking or inability to disengage the cruise control could increase the risk of a crash. Additionally, when the ignition is in the 'ON' position, the transmission shifter may be able to be moved out of PARK without first applying the brake. This may lead to unintentional movement of the car which may increase the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Kia will send an interim notification to owners in May 2013. When parts are available, owners will receive a second notification and dealers will replace the stop lamp switch, free of charge. Owners may contact Kia at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's recall campaign number is SC098.
- Model: Kia Rondo 2008
- Report Received Date: 2013-04-01
- Manufacturer: Kia Motors Corporation
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING:BRAKE LIGHTS:SWITCH
- Summary: Kia Motors Corporation (Kia) is recalling certain model year 2007-2010 Rondo, model year 2007-2011 Sedona, Sorento and Sportage, model year 2010-2011 Soul, model year 2008-2011 Optima, model year 2010 Forte, model year 2007-2009 Amanti, and model year 2009 Borrego vehicles. Originally, in April 2013, Kia recalled 623,658 model year 2007-2010 Rondo and Sportage, model year 2007-2011 Sorento, model year 2007 Sedona, model year 2010-2011 Soul, and model year 2011 Optima vehicles. In September 2013, Kia informed the agency that it was adding an additional 356,719 vehicles to this campaign. The total number of vehicles being recalled is now 980,377. In the affected vehicles, the stop lamp switch may malfunction. A malfunctioning stop lamp switch may cause the brake lights to not illuminate when the brake pedal is depressed or may cause an inability to deactivate the cruise control by depressing the brake pedal. Additionally, a malfunctioning stop lamp switch may also result in intermittent operation of the push-button start feature, affect the operation of the brake-transmission shift interlock feature preventing the shifter from being moved out of the PARK position and cause the Electronic Stability Control (ESC) malfunction light to illuminate.
- Consequence: Failure to illuminate the stop lamps during braking or inability to disengage the cruise control could increase the risk of a crash. Additionally, when the ignition is in the 'ON' position, the transmission shifter may be able to be moved out of PARK without first applying the brake. This may lead to unintentional movement of the car which may increase the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Kia will send an interim notification to owners in May 2013. When parts are available, owners will receive a second notification and dealers will replace the stop lamp switch, free of charge. Owners may contact Kia at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's recall campaign number is SC098.
- Model: Kia Rondo 2009
- Report Received Date: 2013-04-01
- Manufacturer: Kia Motors Corporation
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING:BRAKE LIGHTS:SWITCH
- Summary: Kia Motors Corporation (Kia) is recalling certain model year 2007-2010 Rondo, model year 2007-2011 Sedona, Sorento and Sportage, model year 2010-2011 Soul, model year 2008-2011 Optima, model year 2010 Forte, model year 2007-2009 Amanti, and model year 2009 Borrego vehicles. Originally, in April 2013, Kia recalled 623,658 model year 2007-2010 Rondo and Sportage, model year 2007-2011 Sorento, model year 2007 Sedona, model year 2010-2011 Soul, and model year 2011 Optima vehicles. In September 2013, Kia informed the agency that it was adding an additional 356,719 vehicles to this campaign. The total number of vehicles being recalled is now 980,377. In the affected vehicles, the stop lamp switch may malfunction. A malfunctioning stop lamp switch may cause the brake lights to not illuminate when the brake pedal is depressed or may cause an inability to deactivate the cruise control by depressing the brake pedal. Additionally, a malfunctioning stop lamp switch may also result in intermittent operation of the push-button start feature, affect the operation of the brake-transmission shift interlock feature preventing the shifter from being moved out of the PARK position and cause the Electronic Stability Control (ESC) malfunction light to illuminate.
- Consequence: Failure to illuminate the stop lamps during braking or inability to disengage the cruise control could increase the risk of a crash. Additionally, when the ignition is in the 'ON' position, the transmission shifter may be able to be moved out of PARK without first applying the brake. This may lead to unintentional movement of the car which may increase the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Kia will send an interim notification to owners in May 2013. When parts are available, owners will receive a second notification and dealers will replace the stop lamp switch, free of charge. Owners may contact Kia at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's recall campaign number is SC098.
- Model: Kia Rondo 2010
- Report Received Date: 2013-04-01
- Manufacturer: Kia Motors Corporation
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING:BRAKE LIGHTS:SWITCH
- Summary: Kia Motors Corporation (Kia) is recalling certain model year 2007-2010 Rondo, model year 2007-2011 Sedona, Sorento and Sportage, model year 2010-2011 Soul, model year 2008-2011 Optima, model year 2010 Forte, model year 2007-2009 Amanti, and model year 2009 Borrego vehicles. Originally, in April 2013, Kia recalled 623,658 model year 2007-2010 Rondo and Sportage, model year 2007-2011 Sorento, model year 2007 Sedona, model year 2010-2011 Soul, and model year 2011 Optima vehicles. In September 2013, Kia informed the agency that it was adding an additional 356,719 vehicles to this campaign. The total number of vehicles being recalled is now 980,377. In the affected vehicles, the stop lamp switch may malfunction. A malfunctioning stop lamp switch may cause the brake lights to not illuminate when the brake pedal is depressed or may cause an inability to deactivate the cruise control by depressing the brake pedal. Additionally, a malfunctioning stop lamp switch may also result in intermittent operation of the push-button start feature, affect the operation of the brake-transmission shift interlock feature preventing the shifter from being moved out of the PARK position and cause the Electronic Stability Control (ESC) malfunction light to illuminate.
- Consequence: Failure to illuminate the stop lamps during braking or inability to disengage the cruise control could increase the risk of a crash. Additionally, when the ignition is in the 'ON' position, the transmission shifter may be able to be moved out of PARK without first applying the brake. This may lead to unintentional movement of the car which may increase the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Kia will send an interim notification to owners in May 2013. When parts are available, owners will receive a second notification and dealers will replace the stop lamp switch, free of charge. Owners may contact Kia at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's recall campaign number is SC098.
Latest negative Kia Rondo car reviews
Latest positive Kia Rondo car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2007
Your 07 Rondo sounds like a great car! With over 150k miles and no mechanical issues, it's clear that it's been reliable and safe for you. The 2.4 engine is also a great choice with its no maintenance timing chain and bulletproof 4 cylinders. It's a functional, comfortable, and practical car that can get up to 30 mpg on the highway. It's impressive that the Koreans have made such a turn towards world-class quality in recent years!
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Vehicle year: 2009
I purchased a one-owner Kia Rondo with 100k miles for $2200. At first, I didn't do much maintenance except for replacing the driver side shock. As time went by, I noticed a few things to watch out for. One issue is oil consumption on the 2.4L engine, but it's not a problem if you drive normally. However, I tend to drive aggressively and travel far, so it was a concern for me. Another issue is that the front calipers can fail, which means you have to replace them along with your disc and brakes. The camshaft sensor can also go bad, but the parts are pretty cheap. I did all the work myself. The car is prone to rust, so I recommend getting an undercoating. The stock radio is not great, so I suggest getting a double din radio with Bluetooth to fix the problem. Surprisingly, I was able to fit a full-sized arcade machine in the car! I used this car to set up at flea markets on the weekends, and it has been one of the best cars I've ever owned. I've had it for a little over a year now, and it currently has 120k miles.
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Vehicle year: 2007
This is exactly what you needed! As a retired younger couple who are always on the go, it's important to have a comfortable 'lay-down' space in the back for those long trips. The Kia Rondo is the perfect foreign car for you, with its zippy performance, comfortable interior, and attractive design. The 60/40 seating configuration is also ideal for empty-nesters like yourselves. Best of all, it's within your price range!
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Vehicle year: 2008
We purchased our 2008 car at a great price from a wholesaler two years ago. It was previously owned in Pennsylvania, where they have strict inspection codes. Unfortunately, it required a new sub-frame at 113K miles, as it had been previously welded. However, our mechanic was able to get a new one from KIA. Despite the setback, the car runs great, is quiet, and gets good gas mileage. We plan to keep it running until it reaches 200K miles, especially after investing in those repairs. In February 2022, a solenoid on the transmission was replaced under warranty at 142K miles, although it should have been done when the gear was replaced. We also had some suspension stabilizer bars replaced along with the rear struts at 140K miles to properly align the rear wheels. The car may have some age-related issues, but nothing unexpected.
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Vehicle year: 2009
I really can't say enough positive things about this car! When I bought it as a demonstrator with 10,800 miles, I only paid $220 more than a 10-year-old Honda CRV with 110,000 miles on the same lot. The head and leg room, as well as visibility, are better than my Dodge Caravan. The rear seats lay all the way flat, which is great for hauling and camping. The doors open all the way, allowing me to load a box the full size of the door in the back (unlike my dad's Buick). With the V6 engine, there is more than enough spunk to get up to speed on the freeway. On a country road, I had it up to 110 mph and was still accelerating. It can be really fun to drive when I want to!
Are you having problems with your Kia Rondo?
Tremaine Ryan 2025-02-03
Vehicle year: 2008
PROS - This is an amazing deal! A 2008 leftover stickered at $23,000+ was bought early in 2009 for only $16,000 total (no trade, and included tax, title, and registration). That's incredible! - The mileage is also impressive, with 24+ mpg mixed driving and 27+ mpg on the highway (usually running around 70 mph). We're easy on the pedal. - It also tows a 1,000 lb pop up trailer effortlessly, only costing 3 mpg. - The build is solid and reasonably quiet. - The 3rd row split bench seat lets us haul 6 people total - 4 adults, two kids in car seats - AND a big stroller -- plus a few other things -- in relative comfort. IFFY: - The looks may be unremarkable, but it's what's on the inside that counts! - The road-handling and performance are reasonably satisfying (it is a 'midi van' after all!). - While the front seats may not be very comfortable, the rest of the van makes up for it.
Rickey Muller 2025-01-07
Vehicle year: 2009
We purchased our Rondo brand new in 2008. It was exactly the car we were looking for, with the added bonus of third row stow-and-go seats. For the first five years, we had reasonable performance from it, despite a few factory recalls during that time. However, unfortunately, two months after the five-year warranty expired, the engine failed. Despite following the warranty maintenance schedule, KIA Canada was unable to assist us with this matter, and we ended up having to have a second-hand motor installed. It's disappointing that KIA doesn't stand behind their products, and like a previous poster, I too am a bit embarrassed about having recommended KIA to friends.
Tillman Tremblay 2024-11-28
Vehicle year: 2009
I purchased a KIA with the intention of having a 3rd row. Although it has plenty of space, I have encountered a few issues. The headlights have a horizon line and are not very effective on hills. Additionally, there is a bad vibration that KIA attributed to the rims bending when the car sat for too long. The solution was to overinflate the tires. Fixing the airbag lights took several attempts, and the stereo was faulty from the beginning, but the dealer initially thought it was fine. KIA eventually replaced it, but the replacement was also defective. After about 7 months, trade-in offers ranged from $7,000 to $10,800 for a car that had an MSRP of about $23,000 when purchased.
Hiram Predovic 2024-11-19
Vehicle year: 2008
I recently purchased an 08 KIA Rondo from a dealership's used lot for under 10k. It had only 20,000 miles on it and looked almost brand new. I am really enjoying driving it, especially the extra kick that the v6 provides. This gives it an advantage over other crossover wagon type vehicles. It has all the usual features such as power windows, power doors, am/fm/cd, ac/heat. The Rondo is incredibly spacious in the back, making it perfect for carrying kids, groceries, camping gear, and more. Overall, I am pleasantly surprised with this ride!
Nick Kris 2024-11-15
Vehicle year: 2007
I found the Rondo to be an interesting vehicle due to its fuel mileage and 7 seats. It has a spacious interior without looking too bulky. While the fuel mileage was not as great as I expected, it was still decent. However, I did experience some issues with the brakes locking up in snowy and bumpy conditions, which made me feel unsafe while driving. Despite taking it to the dealership, they were unable to find any problems. I am considering trying snow tires to see if that helps. Unfortunately, I did not receive much assistance from the dealership. As someone who has owned many different cars and is not usually afraid of driving in the snow, I am disappointed that I do not feel safe in this vehicle during snowy conditions and will have to avoid driving it in those situations.