2020 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 | 54 |
| 2013 | 153 |
| 2014 | 52 |
| 2015 | 52 |
| 2016 | 77 |
| 2017 | 31 |
| 2018 | 28 |
| 2019 | 21 |
| 2020 | 27 |
| 2021 | 15 |
| 2022 | 11 |
| 2023 | 12 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
Only 27 complaints on file for this model year -- too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
5 of 27 total reports mention: power train.
CRASH FIREShow complaint excerpts
The contact owns a 2020 Kia Rio.
NHTSA ODI report, 20210722
5 of 27 total reports mention: engine.
CRASH FIRE DEATH5 of 27 total reports mention: electrical system.
FIREShow complaint excerpts
I went into a rural King store to shop when I came back out my car was completely filled with smoke. I opened the front passengerdoor and the smoke hit me in the face it was so thick and green it was just it took my breath.
NHTSA ODI report, 20250406
Also filed under UNKNOWN OR OTHER
I came out of a store last week and there was smoke inside my car and when I opened the door there was a hole down by the door frame on the passenger side that it burned all the way through to the frame of the car and now my lights are flashing on...
NHTSA ODI report, 20250309
My 2020 Kia Rio S caught fire spontaneously while parked and unattended for 5 hours at my work parking lot. The vehicle was turned off and had not been involved in a collision. I was notified of the fire after it had already started.
NHTSA ODI report, 20260830
Also filed under SEATS and UNKNOWN OR OTHER
4 of 27 total reports mention: steering.
3 of 27 total reports mention: service brakes.
SAFETY TIMELINE
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Rio vehicles. The brake master cylinder may have been manufactured with sharp edges that can damage the inner oil seal, resulting in reduced braking performance.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the brake master cylinder, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 11, 2022. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall SC223.
Campaign 21V936000 — check if this car was fixed
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
2020 Kia RIO — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for power train issues (5 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for engine issues (5 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for electrical system issues (5 reports on file for this year).
- Verify recall 21V936000 (service brakes, hydraulic) has been completed.
OTHER YEARS OF THIS MODEL
BEST YEARS
WORST YEARS
FAQ
Is the 2020 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 2020 Kia RIO?
The most-reported component is power train, accounting for 19% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 2020 Kia RIO 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.