2003 KIA RIO problems
Owners have filed 103 complaints about the 2003 KIA RIO with NHTSA. Engine and engine cooling accounts for 18.4% of them — narrowly the most common, ahead of electrical system at 15.5%.
Complaints103
Crashes8
Fires2
Injuries7
Deaths0
What owners report breaking
Engine and engine cooling 18.4% · 19
Electrical system 15.5% · 16
Power train 12.6% · 13
Service brakes, hydraulic 11.7% · 12
Fuel system, gasoline 6.8% · 7
Seat belts 6.8% · 7
Air bags 3.9% · 4
Steering 3.9% · 4
Severity
Of those complaints, 8 describe a crash, 2 describe a fire and 7 report an injury.
Reading the numbers
Across the 5 model years of the KIA RIO in this data, 2003 draws comparatively few complaints; 2001 is the outlier year.
Filings have fallen off, 5 in the last three years against 8 in the three before. That is normal as a generation leaves the road.
The median odometer reading at the time of complaint was 16,000 miles.
In owners' own words
While driving vehicle stalled. Driver tried to restart the vehicle, and the engine light appeared on the dashboard and remained on until the vehicle was turned off. Consumer was able to drive the vehicle to the dealer for inspection, and mechanic determined that sensor needed to be replaced. Engine and engine cooling
When it rains the vehicle fails to start. Also, the catalytic convertor is giving out a rotten egg odor that comes through the air vents. Dealership was not willing to service the vehicle. They were only saying it takes a year before the smell goes away. *Ak Engine and engine cooling · reported at 50 miles
: The contact stated while attempting to turn a corner at 10 mph the timing belt broke. The vehicle was towed to an independent repair shop where it was determined as being the timing belt rendering the engine inoperable. No repairs have been made. Engine and engine cooling · reported at 109,000 miles
Verbatim from NHTSA filings. Complaints are unverified owner reports.
Safety recalls
Checking NHTSA for open recalls…