2016 KIA RIO

2 recalls, 110 complaints - 129 TSBs - 4/5 safety rating

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP:CONTROL UNIT/MODULE

Defect Description

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... Read more

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, 2... Read more

1,730,192 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: Kia America, Inc.

LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:TRUNK LID:LATCH

Defect Description

Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2016-2017 Rio, 2016-2018 Optima, 2017-2018 Optima Hybrid and Optima Plug-in Hybrid vehicles. The trunk latch base may crack, preventing the opening of the trunk from the inside. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Mot... Read more

Consequence

A person inside the trunk compartment may become trapped, increasing their risk of injury.

Remedy

Dealers will replace the trunk latch base subassembly, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed October 19, 2023. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC278.

319,436 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: Kia America, Inc.

Complaint Statistics

110 total complaints 12 crashes 9 fires 12 injuries

Top Reported Components

Component	Complaints
ENGINE	23
UNKNOWN OR OTHER	17
POWER TRAIN	10
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM	10
STEERING	9
AIR BAGS	6
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM	6
SERVICE BRAKES	6
STRUCTURE:BODY	3
EXTERIOR LIGHTING	3

Incident date: May 2, 2026

Within the past three years of owning I have had an unfortunate circumstance where my transmission twice now; once at 90,000 and now at 110,000. My vehicle has decided to unexpectedly shift WITHOUT my input from 10th to 1st resulting in the transmission needing to be serviced due to the fact it will... Read more

Incident date: Mar 4, 2026

I am filing a complaint regarding repeated failures of the LED tail light assemblies on my 2016 Kia Rio. This vehicle uses combination tail lights that include both standard bulbs and integrated LED brake lights. The LED portion has failed multiple times over the life of the vehicle. I am now exper... Read more

Incident date: Oct 14, 2025

2018 Audi Q7 piston melting diagnosed by a certified mechanic due to excessive oil consumption due to defective pistons. A class action suit was filed. And a warranty extension extension issued. There is no record of a warranty extension and should be. Please advise

Incident date: Sep 29, 2025

In 2022, in traffic on I35 in Temple, TX, i was in "Drive" and my car went automatically to Neutral and I could not get it out of neutral or turn my car on and off. My two children were in the car and had cars moved, I would have been clobbered. I finally got my car to turn off after several tries, ... Read more

Incident date: Jul 6, 2025

I’m writing about my 2015 Ford Focus (VIN: [XXX] ), which has under 38,500 miles. While heading to work, I suddenly lost power steering—no warning, just stiff steering out of nowhere. The repair cost me over $5,000 to replace the electric power steering rack, which only a Ford dealer could handl... Read more

Incident date: May 6, 2025

The contact owns a 2017 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle jerked and jolted temporarily, and the message "Change Transmission Fluid" was displayed. The contact stated that the failure had been recurring while driving. The check engine warning lig... Read more

Incident date: May 6, 2025

Driver side sliding door lock jammed shut! No way to use the door causing safety issue in an emergency. Lock will not release. There was no warning signs and dealer cannot get my car in for another month. Passenger side sliding door has done this intermittently.

Incident date: Mar 11, 2025

Passenger sensing device for the passenger seat is failing intermittently. Service airbag light is coming on periodically, and, when it does, the passenger "Airbag ON" light fails to illuminate even if a passenger over 100 lbs is in the seat. This is a long recurring issue with all GM cars where the... Read more

Incident date: Mar 11, 2025

The contact owned a 2023 Honda HR-V. The contact stated while driving at approximately 45 MPH and decreasing in speed to exit the highway, a vehicle in front stopped abruptly. The contact depressed the brake pedal with force, however, the brake pedal was soft and traveled to the floorboard. The cont... Read more

Crash

Incident date: Jun 21, 2024

After taking my truck in for recall fixes. I received a message on my screen saying that I had 94 miles until I was limited to 65 mph. It said check DEF system. After taking it in the dealership charged me to fix the computer. Known defect yet they charge for it.

Incident date: Jun 21, 2024

The contact owned a 2018 RAM 2500. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed and attempting to slow while turning a corner the vehicle experienced reduced braking performance, after which the brakes seized causing the vehicle to skid. As a result, the contact lost control of the... Read more

Crash

Incident date: Dec 1, 2024

Vehicle stopped dead went into park. All lights came on of temperature control throttle without any warning of check engine prior to I was in busy traffic and having to get towed to the dealership now the dealership doesn’t know what’s wrong with it and I’m without a vehicle.

Incident date: May 15, 2023

The contact owns a 2018 Chrysler Pacifica. The contact stated that since 2019, the "Auto START/STOP feature unavailable" message was displayed on the instrument panel. Due to the failure, the vehicle intermittently failed to start, the vehicle was jerking and hesitating while depressing the accelera... Read more

Incident date: Apr 30, 2024

DCT transmission issue

Incident date: Jun 17, 2024

The contact owns a 2023 Honda CMX500 Motorcycle. The contact stated that while riding at an undisclosed speed, the rear brake pedal was depressed, but the rear brakes failed to engage to stop the motorcycle. The contact regained control of the motorcycle and rode to the dealer; however, the cause of... Read more

Incident date: Jun 17, 2024

Rear end differential bearing failure, second time. Result in high vibration and substantial metal flacks in differential oil. Ford reporting rebuild is required again.

Incident date: Jun 17, 2024

The contact owns a 2014 Audi A4. The contact stated while driving 40 MPH, a message advising to stop the vehicle immediately was displayed. The contact pulled into a parking lot, where the contact noticed that coolant was leaking onto the ground. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic, whe... Read more

Incident date: Apr 20, 2024

Honk as a button instead of at the center. Came close calls a few times where accident could have been avoided if I am able to honk within split second. I kept pressing center of the steering wheel. Safety Recall should be made. [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT ... Read more

Incident date: Apr 20, 2024

Horn button is not in center of steering wheel. This makes sounding of the horn by a driver less accessible in an emergency or urgent situation to avoid a collision, accident, or pedestrian. Please request a recall for a standard center horn location I'm the steering wheel.

Incident date: Jun 5, 2024

The contact owns a 2023 Mercedes-Benz AMG GLE53. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V880000 (Fuel System, Gasoline). The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked in the garage, he observed a fuel odor inside the garage. The Fire Department was called and aired out ... Read more

Incident date: Feb 29, 2024

I was notified in July of 2023 of a recall on the battery energy recall module for this vehicle. I purchased this vehicle to charge and have a gas backup. As a result of reading reports of the potential fire due to charging the vehicle and the notice to not charge the vehicle for safety reasons, I... Read more

Incident date: Jul 28, 2023

A message appears on the gauge panel stating "SERVIVE SHIFTER." This started happening intermittently since November 2020. It is now happening every time the Jeep is driven. I am unsure if this will cause a safety issue at some point or not as the car seems to drive normal even with the message.

Incident date: Jul 28, 2023

The contact owns a 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport. The contact stated that while at a stop sign, the oil pressure warning light illuminated and was flashing on and off. The contact stated that while stopped at the next stop sign, the failure recurred. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic wh... Read more

Incident date: Apr 23, 2024

My blind spot detectors went out, now as a result most of the electrical stuff no longer works. The car powers on and drains the battery randomly and the speedometer doesn’t work. Every light comes on from front camera, abs, and even power steering. I didn’t feel safe taking my kids to school an... Read more

Incident date: Apr 17, 2024

While driving on a 4 lane road with a passing lane the automatic emergency braking system started slowing the vehicle down for a vehicle in the left hand turning lane. It was not directly in front of me. The warning tone and BRAKE flashing alarm come on frequently when driving on 2 lane roads and a... Read more

Incident date: Apr 15, 2024

Steering Geer Box Structure body Roof and Pillars Seat belt retractors Air bags frontal

Incident date: Sep 25, 2023

The contact owns a 2011 Ford Escape. The contact stated while driving 30 MPH and attempting to make a left turn, the steering wheel locked, causing the vehicle to drive straightforwardly towards oncoming traffic. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact stated that she stopped the vehicle... Read more

Incident date: Apr 3, 2024

At ~80,000 miles on the odometer, the vehicle began exhibiting stiff/unresponsive steering at highway speeds. Specifically, when driving on a level plane in a straight line, the driver's attempts to correct drifts in direction by turning the steering wheel elicit no immediate feedback from the steer... Read more

Incident date: Sep 25, 2023

I have a 2001 Dodge Ram 2500. In 2003, I noticed parts of the dash, starting to break apart. In 2004, I had a major head on collision, and the airbag, did NOT deploy. The damage was extensive, with bent frame. The damage was $17,000 in 2004. I was told by the Chrysler Dealership, that did the repair... Read more

Incident date: Apr 1, 2024

•brake failure •this has happened at indiscriminate times including the highway, suddenly the car tells me to stop driving and the brakes don’t work as they should, no telling this would happen until it occurs. When pressing brakes, a loud noise rumbles through the car and I am no longer able ... Read more

Incident date: Apr 1, 2024

Incident date: Mar 29, 2024

[XXX] at [XXX] We were sitting at a complete stop with our turn signal on, waiting for traffic to clear enough to turn left. It was dark/cold but otherwise good road conditions, no rain/snow/wind. We were suddenly slammed from behind in the rear/R passenger rear by the Black Dodge Journey. This impa... Read more

Crash 2 injured

Incident date: Sep 25, 2023

The contact owns a 2020 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while opening the front driver's side door, there was an abnormal cracking sound heard. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, where it was determined that the driver’s side front door was cr... Read more

Incident date: Jan 31, 2024

Driving at 70mph, another vehicle that is sitting on the grass on the side of the road decides to pulls out in front of me as I'm approaching(no warnings occurred from the collision assist system). I swerved to avoid the other vehicle and then he decides to pull into the lane that I'm trying to get... Read more

Incident date: Jan 12, 2024

On several occasions, most of which happened while in motion, my vehicle has stalled out of the blue with no warning. It seems to mostly happen when I’m slowing down or when I’m making a right hand turn and try to accelerate, suddenly there’s no power to the engine. I have to put the vehicle i... Read more

Incident date: Jan 12, 2024

Car has an issue where the automatic emergency braking system (AEB) and the vehicle dynamic control off(VDC) lights simultaneously go on the dashboard. Shortly after the car will stall while idle at red lights. Car will also have trouble going above 2500 rpm when this happens. Causing the car to dri... Read more

Incident date: Jan 16, 2024

Our unit was recalled previously under recall 22V273000 for the slide creeping out. The RV was supposedly repaired prior to leaving the factory. However, over the summer it began to creep out dangerously while driving. Again it was sent in for repairs and "fixed" Again the slide is moving out ... Read more

Incident date: Jan 16, 2024

Incident date: Jan 24, 2024

My rearview camera goes in and out sometimes it works sometimes it doesn’t. Have to use my side view to back up . This is definitely dangerous. Don’t know what is wrong with it, it will beep when you get to close but no picture.

Incident date: Sep 25, 2023

The contact owns a 2021 Jeep Wrangler. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V787000 (Electrical System) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. T... Read more

Incident date: Jan 15, 2024

Vehicle brakes went completely hard and vehicle would not stop. There was no warning signs, no lights on the dash and vehicle was driving on highway normally. Upon taking a highway exit, I could not stop the vehicle, completely unexpectedly. Upon further research it is a very common problem that nee... Read more

Incident date: May 1, 2022

I experienced a Malfunction of indicators lamp, ABS warning lights, burning/ melting smell and smoke from the engine compartment.

Incident date: Nov 1, 2023

Beginning on the first of December 2023, the battery has drained every 24 to 48 hours. I have used up the annual roadside assistance I am allowed in the policy year October 2023 through October 2024. The roadside assistance technicians kept telling me I was not driving it enough or I was leaving so... Read more

Incident date: Sep 25, 2023

The car lurches, and hops during acceleration. I came to a stop one morning, and it would NOT move at first. I just bought this car a week ago. I had a test done and the solenoids in the transmission are stuck on.

Incident date: Sep 25, 2023

The contact owns a 2016 Ford F-150. The contact stated that while driving at 5 MPH, the contact approached a stop sign and depressed the brake pedal. However, the brake pedal was inoperable and the vehicle did not stop. Due to the brake pedal failure, the contact rear-ended the vehicle in front of h... Read more

Crash

Incident date: Sep 25, 2023

The contact owns a 2021 Alfa Romeo Stelvio. The contact stated that while driving at approximately 35–45 MPH, the check engine warning light illuminated. The “Do Not Drive” message was displayed. The contact called an independent mechanic and was referred to the dealer. The vehicle was taken t... Read more

Incident date: Nov 24, 2023

The contact owns a 2013 Ford F-150. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 19V075000 (Power Train) and the vehicle was taken to the dealer. The dealer informed the contact that the repair could not be completed unless the vehicle was experiencing failure. The contact stated whil... Read more

Incident date: Nov 24, 2023

I recently had an accident with the car. I was driving in a gated subdivision under very low speed, when I put the shifter in reverse in order to back up the car, the car failed to go into reverse and gave no warning, I assumed that the car was in reserve mode and tried to accelerate , the car lu... Read more

Crash

Incident date: Nov 24, 2023

Crash

Showing 50 of 110 complaints.

NHTSA Safety Ratings, 2016 KIA RIO

2016 Kia Rio 4 DR FWD

Category	Rating
Overall Rating	4 / 5 ★★★★☆
Frontal Crash	4 / 5 ★★★★☆
Frontal Crash, Driver	4 / 5 ★★★★☆
Frontal Crash, Passenger	4 / 5 ★★★★☆
Side Crash	5 / 5 ★★★★★
Side Crash, Driver	4 / 5 ★★★★☆
Side Crash, Passenger	5 / 5 ★★★★★
Rollover	4 / 5 ★★★★☆
Rollover Risk	11.6%

Safety Technology

Feature	Status
Electronic Stability Control	Standard
Forward Collision Warning	No
Lane Departure Warning	No

Source: NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings Program. Ratings are based on crash tests conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

EPA Fuel Economy, 2016 KIA RIO

Trim / Engine	City MPG	Highway MPG	Combined MPG	Fuel Type	Annual Fuel Cost
1.6L 4-cyl, Automatic (S6) (Front-Wheel Drive)	27.0	36.0	30.0	Regular	$2,050
1.6L 4-cyl, Manual 6-spd (Front-Wheel Drive)	27.0	36.0	31.0	Regular	$2,000

CO2 Emissions: 290.0 g/mile (Compact Cars)

Source: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Actual fuel economy may vary based on driving conditions.

Technical Service Bulletins, 2016 KIA RIO

129 manufacturer communications from 75 unique bulletins. TSBs describe known problems and recommended fixes from the manufacturer.

Most Affected Components

Component	Bulletins
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM	22
160000 STRUCTURE	12
350000 EQUIPMENT	10
010000 STEERING	10
060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING	8
118000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE	7
356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY	6
100000 POWER TRAIN	4

010000 STEERING

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: CUSTOMER SATISFACTION: THEFT DETERRENT IGNITION CYLINDER PROTECTOR & DECAL INSTALLATION (CS2311) - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. New/revised sections of this bulletin are indic

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

160000 STRUCTURE

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

CUSTOMER SATISFACTION CAMPAIGN: OWNER NOTIFICATION - This document is the owner notification advising that Kia now has an additional vehicle modification available for installation to help deter or thwart attempted thefts. This modification

116300 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:ANTI-THEFT:CONTROL MODULE

160000 STRUCTURE

010000 STEERING

012200 STEERING:COLUMN LOCKING:ANTI-THEFT DEVICE

160000 STRUCTURE

115000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:BODY CONTROL MODULE/BCM

160100 STRUCTURE:CRITICAL FASTENERS

010000 STEERING

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: CUSTOMER SATISFACTION: THEFT DETERRENT IGNITION CYLINDER PROTECTOR & DECAL INSTALLATION (CS2311) - This bulletin provides information to install a Theft Deterrent Ignition Cylinder Protector on certain 2010-2022M

012200 STEERING:COLUMN LOCKING:ANTI-THEFT DEVICE

160000 STRUCTURE

115000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:BODY CONTROL MODULE/BCM

160100 STRUCTURE:CRITICAL FASTENERS

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: CUSTOMER SATISFACTION: ANTI-THEFT S/W LOGIC UPGRADE & DECAL INSTALLATION (CS2307) - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. New/revised sections of this bulletin are indicated by a black

353100 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:ANTI-THEFT DEVICES

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

116300 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:ANTI-THEFT:CONTROL MODULE

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

CUSTOMER SATISFACTION CAMPAIGN: OWNER RE-NOTIFICATION - This document is the owner re-notification advising that Kia has developed a software upgrade that can be installed on the vehicle to restrict the operation of the vehicle's ignition s

010000 STEERING

CUSTOMER SATISFACTION CAMPAIGN: OWNER RE-NOTIFICATION - This document is the owner re-notification advising that Kia is now making steering wheel lock devices available directly to certain Kia vehicle owners. These devices can help deter a

350000 EQUIPMENT

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: CUSTOMER SATISFACTION: KIA GENUINE REMOTE START CONTROL MODULE UPGRADE FOR ANTI-THEFT LOGIC COMPATIBILITY (CS2310) - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. New/revised sections of this

116300 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:ANTI-THEFT:CONTROL MODULE

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

353100 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:ANTI-THEFT DEVICES

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN CUSTOMER SATISFACTION: KIA GENUINE REMOTE START CONTROL MODULE UPGRADE FOR ANTI-THEFT LOGIC COMPATIBILITY (CS2310) - This bulletin provides information to update the software logic in the Kia Genuine Remote Start

160000 STRUCTURE

VOLUNTARY SERVICE CAMPAIGN - APPLICATION OF ADDITIONAL ANTI-CORROSION MATERIAL (SC264): This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. New/revised sections of this bulletin are indicated by a black bar in the margin area.

161100 STRUCTURE:FRAME AND MEMBERS:UNDERBODY SHIELDS

160000 STRUCTURE

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: OVERHEAD CONSOLE SUNGLASS DOOR-LATCH REPAIR - This bulletin provides information to repair the overhead console lamp assembly and sunglass door latch on some 2012-2023MY model vehicles listed in the table below,

330000 INTERIOR LIGHTING

163400 STRUCTURE:INTERIOR PANELS:SUN VISOR

171200 LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:DOORS:LOCK

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

160000 STRUCTURE

VOLUNTARY SERVICE CAMPAIGN: OWNER NOTIFICATION - This document is the owner notification advising that Kia is conducting a Voluntary Service Campaign, as a preventive measure, to apply anti-corrosion material to the underbody components of

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

CUSTOMER SATISFACTION CAMPAIGN: OWNER NOTIFICATION - This document is the owner notification advising that Kia previously sent a letter for a steering wheel lock device, and their vehicle is equipped with a factory burglar alarm and is ther

160000 STRUCTURE

VOLUNTARY SERVICE CAMPAIGN: DEALER PRINCIPAL MEMO - This document is the announcement to the dealer principals that Kia is conducting a Voluntary Service Campaign, as a preventive measure, to apply anti-corrosion material to the underbody c

160000 STRUCTURE

VOLUNTARY SERVICE CAMPAIGN: DEALER PARTS AND SERVICE MANAGER MEMO - This document is the announcement to the dealer Parts and Service Managers that Kia is conducting a Voluntary Service Campaign, as a preventive measure, to apply anti-corro

160000 STRUCTURE

VOLUNTARY SERVICE CAMPAIGN: QUESTION AND ANSWER - This document is the Question and Answer Guide containing the most frequently asked questions regarding the Voluntary Service Campaign (SC264).

160000 STRUCTURE

VOLUNTARY SERVICE CAMPAIGN: APPLICATION OF ADDITIONAL ANTI-CORROSION MATERIAL (SC264) - This bulletin provides information to apply additional anti-corrosion material to the underbody components on certain 2012-2017MY Rio (UB) and 2017-2018

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

116300 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:ANTI-THEFT:CONTROL MODULE

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

CUSTOMER SATISFACTION CAMPAIGN: OWNER NOTIFICATION - This document is the owner notification advising that Kia has developed a software upgrade that can be installed on the vehicle to restrict the operation of the vehicle's ignition system

116000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: CUSTOMER SATISFACTION: ANTI-THEFT S/W LOGIC UPGRADE & DECAL INSTALLATION (CS2307) - This bulletin provides the procedure to upgrade the software logic of the Integrated Body Control Unit (IBU) or Body Control Mod

011000 STEERING: STEERING WHEEL/HANDLE BAR

CUSTOMER SATISFACTION CAMPAIGN: OWNER NOTIFICATION - This document is the owner notification advising that Kia is now making steering wheel lock devices available directly to certain Kia vehicle owners. These devices can help deter a theft

350000 EQUIPMENT

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

PITSTOP: LOW OIL PRESSURE AT IDLE AFTER GAMMA 1.6L GDI SHORT BLOCK ENGINE REPLACEMENT - This bulletin provides information equipped with a Gamma 1.6L GDI regarding a 'low oil pressure' concern during engine idle on vehicles engine due to a

100000 POWER TRAIN

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: TRANSMISSION FLUID APPLICATION GUIDE - This bulletin provides information relating to the correct transmission fluid type and fill quantity requirement for each Kia model. A flush is required ONLY when a transmis

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: EXCESSIVE OIL CONSUMPTION NU/GAMMA/THETA/KAPPA ENGINES - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. New/revised sections of this bulletin are indicated by a black bar in the margin area. Th

060000 ENGINE (PWS)

061500 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:OIL/LUBRICATION

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

350000 EQUIPMENT

356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY

010000 STEERING

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: PARTIAL REPAIR OF C-MDPS MOTOR, ECU, WORM GEAR AND/OR STEERING COLUMN HOUSING - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. New/revised sections of this bulletin are indicated by a black bar

120000 EXTERIOR LIGHTING

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: INFORMATION FOR HEADLAMP CONDENSATION AND MOISTURE - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. New/revised sections of this bulletin are indicated by a black bar in the margin area. This b

160000 STRUCTURE

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

010000 STEERING

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

010000 STEERING

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

034510 SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:DISC:CALIPER

PITSTOP - BRAKE CALIPER LEAK INSPECTION - This PITSTOP provides information related to a brake caliper fluid/oil substance found on some Kia vehicles, due to possible excess assembly oil applied during assembly.

350000 EQUIPMENT

170000 LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES

TSB - This bulletin provides the procedure to perform a partial repair on the trunk latch base sub assembly on the certain Forte, Rio and Optima vehicles, which may exhibit a difficult-to-close/latch concern with the trunk lid.

100000 POWER TRAIN

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: - TRANSMISSION FLUID APPLICATION GUIDE - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. This bulletin provides information relating to the correct transmission fluid type and fill quantity requ

120000 EXTERIOR LIGHTING

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: HALOGEN HEAD LAMP LOW BEAM BULB CONNECTOR REPLACEMENT - This bulletin provides information regarding the procedure to repair the bulb connector on some 2010MY~ vehicles listed on the table below, which may exhibi

063100 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:EMISSION CONTROL

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: FUEL SMELL ECU LOGIC IMPROVEMENT AND CHARCOAL CANISTER REPLACEMENT - This bulletin provides the procedure to improve the logic of the Engine Control Unit (ECU) and replace the evaporative system charcoal canister

070000 FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

350000 EQUIPMENT

100000 POWER TRAIN

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: DCT ACTUATOR ROD LENGTH ADJUSTMENT - This bulletin provides the procedure to adjust the Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) actuator rod lengths using the applicable SST on some 2016MY~ vehicles equipped with 6 speed

350000 EQUIPMENT

356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY

010000 STEERING

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: PARTIAL REPAIR OF C-MDPS MOTOR, ECU AND/OR STEERING COLUMN HOUSING - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information.This bulletin provides information regarding the partial repair of the Motor D

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY

010000 STEERING

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN TSB084_R3: PARTIAL REPAIR OF C-MDPS MOTOR, ECU AND/OR STEERING COLUMN HOUSING - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information.This bulletin provides information regarding the partial repair of t

070000 FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

TSB: AIR DRAIN CASE REPLACEMENT - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. This bulletin provides the procedure to replace the Air Drain Case on some 2014-2018MY Soul (PS), produced from July 21, 2013 through June 1

070000 FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

TSB: SPECIAL SERVICE INFORMATION & SPECIFICATIONS FOR GDI HIGH PRESSURE FUEL SYSTEM - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. This bulletin provides information relating to all Kia vehicles equipped with Gasoline

118000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE

TSB - ECU UPGRADE ? DTC P0441 LOGIC IMPROVEMENT - This bulletin has been revised and is no longer a Service Action. bulletin provides information related to the Engine Control Unit (ECU) software upgrade for some 2012-2016MY Rio (UB), 2014-

060000 ENGINE (PWS)

063000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM

TSB - CANISTER CLOSE VALVE INSPECTION AND AIR DRAIN CASE REPLACEMENT - This bulletin provides the procedure to inspect and if necessary, replace the Air Drain Case on some 2014-18MY Soul (PS), produced from July 21, 2013 through June 1, 201

063000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM

TSB - CANISTER CLOSE VALVE (CCV) REPLACEMENT - This bulletin provides the procedure to replace the Canister Close Valve (CCV) on some 2012-2017MY Rio (UB) vehicles, produced from June 21, 2011 through March 28, 2016, which may exhibit the e

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

PITSTOP - ENGINE COMPONENT RE-USE GUIDELINES - In general, parts and components removed during engine repairs should be considered serviceable, and should be thoroughly cleaned and transferred to the new engine.

106200 POWER TRAIN:AXLE ASSEMBLY:AXLE SHAFT

TSB - DRIVESHAFT SERVICEABILITY - This bulletin has been revised most recently to include additional information. This bulletin provides information regarding axle shaft serviceability for Kia vehicles equipped with a six-speed automatic tr

118000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE

TSB - IDENTIFYING HEAD UNIT SOFTWARE VERSION FOR DIRECT EXCHANGE - This bulletin provides the procedure on how to identify and record the head unit software level on various head unit platforms and generations.

103400 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:LEVER AND LINKAGE:COLUMN SHIFT

PITSTOP - SHIFT LOCK INTERMITTENTLY INOPERATIVE - Some 2012-2017MY Rio (UB) vehicles may exhibit a shifter that will intermittently not shift out of Park. This bulletin gives information on how to troubleshoot the issue.

355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL

TSB - DATA COLLECTION: EXTRACT CALIFORNIA EMISSIONS DATA FROM ECU (DC16) - REVISED - This bulletin provides information related to extracting ?in use performance tracking? emissions data from the Engine Control Unit (ECU) of certain vehicle

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

PITSTOP: TPMS SENSOR POSITION - When diagnosing TPMS-related DTCs, make sure you are investigating the correct sensor. The TPMS positioning from the manufacturer may be different from the positioning shown on a KDS.

130000 VISIBILITY

PITSTOP: ANTI-CONDENSATION LOGIC ? NORMAL OPERATION, DISABLING, AND ENABLING - Some Kia vehicles starting with 2016MY and all Kia vehicles, after and including 2017MY, incorporate an anti-condensation logic to prevent the interior windows f

357100 EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER

118000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE

TSB: SERVICE ACTION: ECU UPGRADE - DTC P0441 LOGIC IMPROVEMENT (SA280) - This bulletin provides information related to the Engine Control Unit (ECU) software upgrade for some 2012-2016MY Rio (UB), 2014-2016 Soul (PS), and 2012-2013MY Soul (

060000 ENGINE (PWS)

Showing 100 of 129 bulletins.

NHTSA Safety Investigations, KIA RIO

Investigations opened by NHTSA into potential safety defects. These are separate from recalls and may or may not result in a recall.

EA, Closed , Model Year: 2001

STEEL WHEEL FRACTURE

ON MARCH 24, 2004, THE OFFICE OF DEFECTS INVESTIGATION (ODI) OPENED A PRELIMINARY EVALUATION (PE04-030) TO INVESTIGATE ALLEGED STEEL WHEEL FRACTURES IN CERTAIN MODEL YEAR (MY) 2001 KIA RIO VEHICLES.THE SUBJECT VEHICLES ARE EQUIPPED WITH WHEELS MANUFACTURED FROM MAY 12 THROUGH OCTOBER 17, 2000.WHEELS... Read more

PE, Closed , Model Year: 2001

STEEL WHEEL FRACTURE

ON MARCH 24, 2004, THE OFFICE OF DEFECTS INVESTIGATION (ODI) OPENED A PRELIMINARY EVALUATION TO INVESTIGATE ALLEGED STEEL WHEEL FRACTURES IN CERTAIN MODEL YEAR (MY) 2001 KIA RIO VEHICLES.THE SUBJECT VEHICLES ARE EQUIPPED WITH WHEELS MANUFACTURED BETWEEN MAY 12 AND OCTOBER 18, 2000.WHEELS WERE MANUFA... Read more

EA, Closed , Model Year: 2001

FUEL RAIL LEAKAGE

ON APRIL 15, 2003, THE OFFICE OF DEFECTS INVESTIGATION (ODI) OPENED A PRELIMINARY EVALUATION (PE03-016) TO INVESTIGATE ENGINE COMPARTMENT FIRES DUE TO ALLEGED FUEL SYSTEM LEAKS IN MODEL YEAR (MY) 2001 KIA RIO VEHICLES.THE INVESTIGATION WAS UPGRADED TO AN ENGINEERING ANALYSIS ON AUGUST 28, 2003.ON SE... PTEMBER 22, 2003, THE MANUFACTURER NOTIFIED THE AGENCY THAT IT WOULD CONDUCT A SAFETY RECALL (03V-352) TO INSPECT THE SUBJECT VEHICLES FOR FUEL LEAKS.AN INFORMATION REQUEST (IR) LETTER WAS SUBMITTED TO THE MANUFACTURER ON NOVEMBER 17, 2003 TO OBTAIN ADDITIONAL INFORMATION SO THAT THE OFFICE COULD EVALUATE THE DEFECT AS REPORTED BY KIA.THE IR LETTER ALSO ADDRESSED OTHER KIA VEHICLES NOT SUBJECT TO THIS INVESTIGATION THAT USE FUEL DELIVERY SYSTEM COMPONENTS IDENTICAL TO THE SUBJECT VEHICLES BUT WERE NOT INCLUDED IN RECALL 03V-352.KIA?S SEPTEMBER 22, 2003 DEFECT NOTIFICATION LETTER IDENTIFIED QUALITY DEVIATIONS IN THE SUBJECT COMPONENTS THAT COULD RESULT IN FUEL LEAKAGE.DURING MY 2001 PRODUCTION, THE SUPPLIER OF THE FUEL RAIL (FUEL DISTRIBUTOR ASSEMBLY) IDENTIFIED QUALITY ISSUES THAT AFFECTED THE INTEGRITY OF PLASTIC WELDS AT THE SERVICE PORT AND/OR FUEL INTAKE NIPPLE.FUEL LEAKAGE COULD ALSO OCCUR IF THE BRASS SERVICE PORT (SCHRADER) VALVE WAS NOT PROPERLY INSTALLED INTO THE VALVE RECEPTACLE.THE SUPPLIER ADOPTED CHANGES TO REMEDY THE PROBLEM AND INSTITUTED A 100% INSPECTION PROCEDURE.SUBSEQUENT TO THIS INVESTIGATION, KIA ALSO CONDUCTED PERFORMANCE TESTING AND ANALYSIS OF WARRANTY AND COMPLAINT DATA.KIA DETERMINED THAT THE FUEL RAIL IS SUBJECT TO FRACTURE AT THE INTAKE NIPPLE DURING THE ASSEMBLY PROCESS OR VEHICLE SERVICING.DAMAGE MAY OCCUR WHEN THE FLEXIBLE FUEL LINE (MAIN FUEL TUBE ASSEMBLY) QUICK CONNECT COUPLING IS IMPROPERLY ATTACHED OR REMOVED FROM THE FUEL RAIL, OR WHEN EXCESSIVE FORCE IS OTHERWISE APPLIED.ODI IS AWARE OF 9 NON-DUPLICATE, NON-CRASH ENGINE COMPARTMENT FIRES CAUSED BY FUEL SYSTEM LEAKS AND AN ADDITIONAL 14 FIRES OF UNKNOWN CAUSE THAT MAY BE RELATED TO THE DEFECT IN THE SUBJECT VEHICLES.ODI IS ALSO AWARE 6 FIRES IN MY 2002 AND 3 FIRES IN MY 2003 RIO/RIO CINCO VEHICLES THAT MAY BE RELATED TO THE DEFECT.TO REDUCE THE POSSIBILITY OF FUEL RAIL DAMAGE, KIA HAS REDESIGNED THE FUEL RAIL TO INCLUDE A STEEL INTAKE NIPPLE, AND THE ATTACHING FUEL LINE QUICK CONNECT COUPLING HAS BEEN CHANGED TO FACILITATE EASIER SERVICING.ON APRIL 7, 2004, KIA NOTIFIED THE AGENCY THAT IT WOULD CONDUCT A SAFETY RECALL (04V-179) TO REPLACE THESE TWO COMPONENTS FREE OF CHARGE FOR OWNERS OF ALL MY 2001-2004 KIA RIO AND RIO CINCO VEHICLES PRODUCED FROM MAY 4, 2000 THROUGH MARCH 31, 2004.ACCORDINGLY, THIS INVESTIGATION IS CLOSED.Read more

PE, Closed , Model Year: 2001

ENGINE COMPARTMENT FIRES

KIA HAS IDENTIFIED 22 NON-CRASH ENGINE COMPARTMENT FIRES OF ANY OR UNSPECIFIED CAUSE ON THE SUBJECT VEHICLES.NINE FIRES (OF WHICH 4 WERE ALSO REPORTED TO ODI) ARE IDENTIFIED AS BEING DUE TO A FUEL SYSTEM LEAK ORIGINATING BETWEEN THE FIREWALL AND THE FUEL INJECTOR RAIL (P/N 0K30E 13 150) IN THE PASSE... Read more

EA, Closed , Model Year: 2001

AIR BAG NON DEPLOY

THIS INVESTIGATION IDENTIFIED A TOTAL OF 82 REPORTS ALLEGING NON-DEPLOYMENT OF THE DUAL FRONT AIR BAGS.OF THE 82 REPORTS, ONLY ONE INCIDENT, THE FATAL CRASH THAT WAS THE BASIS FOR OPENING THE INVESTIGATION, HAS BEEN IDENTIFIED AS A MODERATE TO SEVERE CRASH IN WHICH THE AUTOMOTIVE RESTRAINT CONTROLLE... Read more

PE, Closed , Model Year: 2001

AIR BAG NON-DEPLOYMENT FRONTAL CRASH

IN ADDITION TO THE DECEMBER 2001 FATAL CRASH REPORTED TO ODI THAT PROVIDED THE BASIS FOR OPENING PE02-022, KIA PROVIDED ODI 29 ADDITIONAL REPORTS OF ALLEGATIONS OF NON-DEPLOYMENT OF THE AIR BAG IN A CRASH.NO ADDITIONAL FATAL CRASHES ARE REPORTED.AN ENGINEERING ANALYSIS HAS BEEN OPENED TO CONDUCT FUR... Read more

KIA RIO - All Years Overview

Complete safety history for the KIA RIO across all model years (2001, 2022).

27 Total Recalls

1,821 Total Complaints

6 Investigations

229 Reported Crashes

111 Reported Fires

14 Reported Deaths

KIA RIO - Year by Year

Compare recalls and complaints across model years. Click any year to see full details.

Year	Recalls	Complaints
2023	0	20	View
2022	1	15	View
2021	2	23	View
2020	1	40	View
2019	1	29	View
2018	1	42	View
2017	2	37	View
2016 (current)	2	110
2015	1	69	View
2014	1	75	View
2013	1	218	View
2012	1	75	View
2011	0	32	View
2010	0	38	View
2009	0	54	View
2008	1	57	View
2007	1	64	View
2006	1	89	View
2005	1	46	View
2004	2	53	View
2003	3	103	View
2002	1	171	View
2001	3	355	View
2000	0	4	View

Other KIA Models

Model	Recalls	Complaints
SORENTO	188	13,593	View
SPORTAGE	165	6,601	View
SEDONA	118	3,350	View
OPTIMA	100	10,128	View
TELLURIDE	70	2,186	View
SOUL	66	7,233	View
SORENTO HYBRID	62	159	View
SOUL EV	62	50	View

Vehicle Safety

Consumer Safety

Infrastructure

Public Health

2016 KIA RIO

Complaint Statistics

Top Reported Components

NHTSA Safety Ratings, 2016 KIA RIO

Safety Technology

EPA Fuel Economy, 2016 KIA RIO

Technical Service Bulletins, 2016 KIA RIO

Most Affected Components

NHTSA Safety Investigations, KIA RIO

KIA RIO - All Years Overview

KIA RIO - Year by Year

Other KIA Models