2018 Kia RIO
Only 27 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 27 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 |
|---|---|
| 2000 | 3 |
| 2001 | 223 |
| 2002 | 128 |
| 2003 | 74 |
| 2004 | 38 |
| 2005 | 36 |
| 2006 | 74 |
| 2007 | 46 |
| 2008 | 46 |
| 2009 | 39 |
| 2010 | 26 |
| 2011 | 24 |
| 2012 | 52 |
| 2013 | 153 |
| 2014 | 51 |
| 2015 | 52 |
| 2016 | 77 |
| 2017 | 31 |
| 2018 | 27 |
| 2019 | 21 |
| 2020 | 26 |
| 2021 | 15 |
| 2022 | 10 |
| 2023 | 12 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
Only 27 complaints on file for this model year -- too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
14 of 27 total reports mention: engine.
CRASH FIRE INJURYShow complaint excerpts
My 2018 Kia Rio actually lit up on fire as I was driving down the highway on way to work. As I drove down the highway, I noticed that I had trouble using the brakes. It seemed as if they were working one second and then not working the next.
NHTSA ODI report, 20240609
4 of 27 total reports mention: air bags.
CRASHShow complaint excerpts
I HIT A DEER HEAD ON GOING 74 MPH ON THE PENNSYLVANIA TURNPIKE. SEVERE FRONT END DAMAGE. AIRBAGS DID NOT DEPLOY
NHTSA ODI report, 20201227
3 of 27 total reports mention: electrical system.
2 of 27 total reports mention: fuel/propulsion system.
CRASH FIRE INJURYShow complaint excerpts
My 2018 Kia Rio actually lit up on fire as I was driving down the highway on way to work. As I drove down the highway, I noticed that I had trouble using the brakes. It seemed as if they were working one second and then not working the next.
NHTSA ODI report, 20240609
On 10/02/2021 - Was at a stop, put car in drive press the peddle car accelerated at high speed, miss another car and hit tree. Accident cause by acceleration issue with KIA Rio. Need advice on how to get KIA to replace total vehicle.
NHTSA ODI report, 20211014
2 of 27 total reports mention: exterior lighting.
SAFETY TIMELINE
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2016-2018 Forte 4-door, Forte Koup 2-door, and 2018-2019 Rio 4-door vehicles. The trunk latch may become damaged, preventing the opening of the trunk from the inside.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the trunk latch assembly, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on February 10, 2022. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC216.
Campaign 21V622000 — check if this car was fixed
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
2018 Kia RIO — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for engine issues (14 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for air bags issues (4 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for electrical system issues (3 reports on file for this year).
- Verify recall 21V622000 (latches/locks/linkages) has been completed.
OTHER YEARS OF THIS MODEL
BEST YEARS
WORST YEARS
FAQ
Is the 2018 Kia RIO 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 2018 Kia RIO?
The most-reported component is engine, accounting for 52% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 2018 Kia RIO 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.