2020 Kia Niro
Not enough comparison years on file yet 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.
COMPLAINTS PER YEAR
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 2017 | 75 |
| 2018 | 56 |
| 2019 | 53 |
| 2020 | 35 |
| 2021 | 9 |
| 2022 | 27 |
| 2023 | 39 |
| 2024 | 8 |
| 2025 | 13 |
| 2026 | 1 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
23% of complaints: power train — 8 distinct reports on file.
23% of complaints: engine — 8 distinct reports on file.
FIREShow complaint excerpts
2020 Kia Niro was driving fine until one day while driving down the highway at highway speeds (65-70 mph), the car began to lose power and as we switched lanes to get to the side of the highway, the car began to smoke and caught on fire.
NHTSA ODI report, 20250201
17% of complaints: electrical system — 6 distinct reports on file.
FIRE9% of complaints: service brakes — 3 distinct reports on file.
6% of complaints: fuel/propulsion system — 2 distinct reports on file.
SAFETY TIMELINE
Pedestrian alert sounds
Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2017-2022 Niro and 2018-2022 Niro Plug-in Hybrid vehicles. Fluid may leak into the printed circuit board inside the hydraulic clutch actuator, which can result in an engine compartment fire.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace the hydraulic clutch actuator as necessary and install a new fuse, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 29, 2023. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542.
Campaign 23V534000 — check if this car was fixed
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
2020 Kia Niro — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for power train issues (8 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for engine issues (8 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for electrical system issues (6 reports on file for this year).
- Verify recall 23V534000 (power train) has been completed.
FAQ
Is the 2020 Kia Niro 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 2020 Kia Niro?
The most-reported component is power train, accounting for 23% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 2020 Kia Niro 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.