Is the 2019 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 2019 Kia RIO?

The most-reported component is engine, accounting for 27% of complaints on file.

How many recalls does the 2019 Kia RIO have?

1 recall on file for this model year.

2019 Kia RIO

○ Not enough data

2019 Kia RIO
RENDERED 2026-11-01T13:35:05.063Z

Only 22 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 22 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.

How is this computed?

Complaints: 22
Recalls: 1
Investigations: 0
Top problem: —

Complaints per year

2019: 22 complaints

View as data table

Year	Complaints
2000	3
2001	223
2002	128
2003	74
2004	38
2005	37
2006	74
2007	46
2008	46
2009	39
2010	26
2011	24
2012	54
2013	153
2014	52
2015	52
2016	79
2017	31
2018	28
2019	22
2020	27
2021	15
2022	12
2023	12

Known problem areas

Only 22 complaints on file for this model year — too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.

Engine

6 of 22 total reports mention: engine.

FIRE

Show complaint excerpts

The oil light flashed in the car once after an oil change, so I took the car back the very next day to the mechanic and he said there was no oil in the car at the time.

NHTSA ODI report, 2024-10-31

Also filed under Power train

Air bags

3 of 22 total reports mention: air bags.

CRASHINJURY

Show complaint excerpts

Tl* the contact owned a 2019 Kia RIO. While driving 35 MPH in the right lane, another vehicle turned from the center lane and crashed head on into the contact's vehicle. The air bag failed to deploy.

NHTSA ODI report, 2019-05-06

Steering

2 of 22 total reports mention: steering.

Power train

2 of 22 total reports mention: power train.

Vehicle speed control

1 of 22 total reports mentions: vehicle speed control.

Safety timeline

1 recall · 0 investigations · oldest first

To check one car, enter its VIN on the NHTSA recall page. Check a VIN →

R

2022-02-10Latches/locks/linkages21V622000 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.

Check if this car was fixed →

Buy-smart checklist

2019 Kia RIO — pre-purchase inspection

Inspect

Engine: 6 reports on file for this year.
Air bags: 3 reports on file for this year.
Steering: 2 reports on file for this year.

Verify these recalls were completed

Recall 21V622000 · Latches/locks/linkages

Other years of this model

See all years ranked →

Best years1 year

201731

Worst years3 years

FAQ

Is the 2019 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 2019 Kia RIO?: The most-reported component is engine, accounting for 27% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 2019 Kia RIO 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.