2021 Kia Niro EV
Only 2 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict.
This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.
Only 2 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.
COMPLAINTS PER YEAR
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 2019 | 17 |
| 2020 | 17 |
| 2021 | 2 |
| 2022 | 28 |
| 2023 | 15 |
| 2024 | 6 |
| 2025 | 0 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
Only 2 complaints on file for this model year -- too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
1 of 2 total reports mentions: service brakes.
Show complaint excerpts
The rear brake rotors on the vehicle are pitted, as confirmed by a local repair shop. The "incident" is ongoing. Kia refuses to repair or replace them under warranty (25,500 miles on the car), claiming they are wear item.
NHTSA ODI report, 20250528
1 of 2 total reports mentions: back over prevention.
Show complaint excerpts
I'm a new Niro Ev driver. The VESS noise when reversing the vehicle is very loud.
NHTSA ODI report, 20210730
SAFETY TIMELINE
Pedestrian alert sounds
Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Niro EV vehicles. The circuit board for the rearview camera may become damaged and cause the rearview camera image not to display.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the rearview camera, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed November 7, 2025. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC342.
Campaign 25V426000 — check if this car was fixed
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
2021 Kia Niro EV — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for service brakes issues (1 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for back over prevention issues (1 reports on file for this year).
- Verify recall 25V426000 (back over prevention) has been completed.
FAQ
Is the 2021 Kia Niro EV reliable?
There isn't enough NHTSA complaint data on file yet to give this model year a verdict.
What are the most common problems with the 2021 Kia Niro EV?
The most-reported component is service brakes, accounting for 50% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 2021 Kia Niro EV have?
1 recall on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-07-11 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.