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 PER YEAR
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 2017 | 80 |
| 2018 | 58 |
| 2019 | 55 |
| 2020 | 37 |
| 2021 | 9 |
| 2022 | 31 |
| 2023 | 44 |
| 2024 | 9 |
| 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.
3 of 9 total reports mention: power train.
2 of 9 total reports mention: engine.
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, 20231117
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, 20220915
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, 20210704
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
2021 Kia Niro — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for power train issues (3 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for engine issues (2 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for electrical system issues (2 reports on file for this year).
- Verify recall 23V534000 (power train) has been completed.
OTHER YEARS OF THIS MODEL
BEST YEARS
WORST YEARS
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 2026-09-16 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.