2002 Kia RIO Cinco
Only 21 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 21 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.
- Complaints
- 21
- Recalls
- 1
- Investigations
- 0
- Top problem
- —
Too few to rank
Campaigns on file for 2002
None on file
Not enough data
Complaints per year
2002: 21 complaints
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 2001 | 0 |
| 2002 | 21 |
| 2003 | 8 |
| 2004 | 12 |
Known problem areas
Only 21 complaints on file for this model year — too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
Engine and engine cooling
10 of 21 total reports mention: engine and engine cooling, most commonly citing catalytic convertor and exhaust system.
Show complaint excerpts
While driving consumer smelled a rotten egg odor coming through the vents. The consumer indicated that the smell was hydrogen sulfide (Kia recall SC034).
NHTSA ODI report, 2004-11-08
Also filed under Seats
Power train
4 of 21 total reports mention: power train, most commonly citing clutch assembly and seal.
Fuel system, gasoline
4 of 21 total reports mention: fuel system, gasoline, most commonly citing delivery and mounting.
Electrical system
3 of 21 total reports mention: electrical system.
Air bags
3 of 21 total reports mention: air bags, most commonly citing frontal.
Show complaint excerpts
While driving, the consumer lost control of the vehicle. When the driver tried correct the vehicle and come back onto the highway , the vehicle almost crashed into the concrete barrier.
NHTSA ODI report, 2004-09-15
Safety timeline
1 recall · 0 investigations · oldest first
To check one car, enter its VIN on the NHTSA recall page. Check a VIN →
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R
2004-06-18Fuel system, gasoline04V179000 On certain passenger vehicles, the fuel intake nipple of the fuel distributor is subject to fracture or cracking during removal of the quick connect coupling securing the main fuel tube assembly to…
Remedy: Dealers will replace the fuel distributor and main fuel tube assemblies. The recall began June 18, 2004. Owners should contact Kia at 1-800-333-4542.
Buy-smart checklist
2002 Kia RIO Cinco — pre-purchase inspection
Inspect
- Engine and engine cooling: 10 reports on file for this year.
- Power train: 4 reports on file for this year.
- Fuel system, gasoline: 4 reports on file for this year.
Verify these recalls were completed
- Recall 04V179000 · Fuel system, gasoline
FAQ
- Is the 2002 Kia RIO Cinco 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 2002 Kia RIO Cinco?
- The most-reported component is engine and engine cooling, accounting for 48% of complaints on file.
- How many recalls does the 2002 Kia RIO Cinco 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.