2003 Kia RIO Cinco
Only 8 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 8 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.
- Complaints
- 8
- Recalls
- 1
- Investigations
- 0
- Top problem
- —
Too few to rank
Campaigns on file for 2003
None on file
Not enough data
Complaints per year
2003: 8 complaints
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 2001 | 0 |
| 2002 | 21 |
| 2003 | 8 |
| 2004 | 12 |
Known problem areas
Only 8 complaints on file for this model year — too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
Power train
3 of 8 total reports mention: power train, most commonly citing automatic transmission.
Show complaint excerpts
I have several issues with Kia. I'll give you a quick synopsis of my dealings with Kia. 1-I wanted to buy the 2002 RIO Cinco in August 2002. I researched it online, and picked the one I wanted before going to a dealership.
NHTSA ODI report, 2007-12-12
Seat belts
2 of 8 total reports mention: seat belts.
Structure
1 of 8 total reports mentions: structure, most commonly citing frame and members.
Show complaint excerpts
Had a clunking sound from the right rear of vehicle, brought vehicle to dealer for inspection. Tech checked the strut mounts and found nothing loose.
NHTSA ODI report, 2007-09-15
Engine and engine cooling
1 of 8 total reports mentions: engine and engine cooling, most commonly citing gasoline.
Show complaint excerpts
1/10/04 Saturday. Around 10:30 am hope calls and says the motor has blown on the Kia. I called Kia's roadside assistance. Hope meanwhile had to walk two miles in 40 degree below zero wind chill to the nearest exit and call me.
NHTSA ODI report, 2004-06-29
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
2003 Kia RIO Cinco — pre-purchase inspection
Inspect
- Power train: 3 reports on file for this year.
- Seat belts: 2 reports on file for this year.
- Structure: 1 report on file for this year.
Verify these recalls were completed
- Recall 04V179000 · Fuel system, gasoline
FAQ
- Is the 2003 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 2003 Kia RIO Cinco?
- The most-reported component is power train, accounting for 38% of complaints on file.
- How many recalls does the 2003 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.