2021 Kia Niro
Only 9 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 9 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.
- Complaints
- 9
- Recalls
- 1
- Investigations
- 1
- Top problem
- —
Too few to rank
Campaigns on file for 2021
Opened by NHTSA
Not enough data
Complaints per year
2021: 9 complaints
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 2017 | 82 |
| 2018 | 60 |
| 2019 | 56 |
| 2020 | 38 |
| 2021 | 9 |
| 2022 | 31 |
| 2023 | 44 |
| 2024 | 10 |
| 2025 | 17 |
| 2026 | 2 |
Known problem areas
Only 9 complaints on file for this model year — too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
Power train
3 of 9 total reports mention: power train.
Engine
2 of 9 total reports mention: engine.
Electrical system
2 of 9 total reports mention: electrical system.
Show complaint excerpts
Problem has not been remedied. What is my recourse? How long do I have to drive around worried about the car going on fire?
NHTSA ODI report, 2023-11-17
Visibility
1 of 9 total reports mentions: visibility, most commonly citing sun/moon roof assembly.
Show complaint excerpts
While driving on a major highway, my sunroof suddenly exploded. Luckily the screen was pulled shut otherwise I would have been covered in glass. I was able to drive to the next exit and park the vehicle to then get out and observe the damage.
NHTSA ODI report, 2022-09-15
Visibility/wiper
1 of 9 total reports mentions: visibility/wiper.
Show complaint excerpts
There is a silver strip of "trim" running completely across the dashboard just above the radio controls. It is so reflective that a glare occurs periodically throughout the day when the sun hits it.
NHTSA ODI report, 2021-07-04
Safety timeline
1 recall · 1 investigation · oldest first
To check one car, enter its VIN on the NHTSA recall page. Check a VIN →
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I
2023-01-27Defect petitionClosed 2023-08-07 Pedestrian alert sounds
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R
2023-12-29Power train23V534000 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.
Buy-smart checklist
2021 Kia Niro — pre-purchase inspection
Inspect
- Power train: 3 reports on file for this year.
- Engine: 2 reports on file for this year.
- Electrical system: 2 reports on file for this year.
Verify these recalls were completed
- Recall 23V534000 · Power train
Other years of this model
See all years ranked →FAQ
- Is the 2021 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 2021 Kia Niro?
- The most-reported component is power train, accounting for 33% of complaints on file.
- How many recalls does the 2021 Kia Niro have?
- 1 recall on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-10-31 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.