2021 Kia RIO
Only 15 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 15 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 15 complaints on file for this model year -- too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
4 of 15 total reports mention: steering.
CRASHShow complaint excerpts
Having been complaining about a noise from under the front right tire, I was initially told it was a little piece of plastic and that got cut off.
NHTSA ODI report, 20221130
Steering Gear Assembly completely broke at 81,000 miles. My daughter was backing up in a busy street at 5pm and lost 100 percent of steering control. Lucking cars dodged her and she didnât get hurt or worse.
NHTSA ODI report, 20250514
3 of 15 total reports mention: service brakes.
CRASHShow complaint excerpts
Having been complaining about a noise from under the front right tire, I was initially told it was a little piece of plastic and that got cut off.
NHTSA ODI report, 20221130
Vehicle failed to reduce speed effectively while trying to avoid a collision with another vehicle during a left turn, which then caused the vehicle to turn widely and collide with the curb.
NHTSA ODI report, 20220119
2 of 15 total reports mention: power train.
Show complaint excerpts
Placed car in park got out to open a gate. Car took off forward even when shifter was in Park Position and almost ran a child over.
NHTSA ODI report, 20231114
2 of 15 total reports mention: engine.
1 of 15 total reports mentions: seat belts.
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
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Rio and Forte vehicles. A bolt in the steering column may not be secured properly, which can cause the steering column to detach from the steering rack and result in a loss of steering control.
Remedy: Dealers will tighten the lower steering column u-joint retention bolt, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed May 27, 2022. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall SC235.
Campaign 22V304000 — check if this car was fixed
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
2021 Kia RIO — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for steering issues (4 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for service brakes issues (3 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for power train issues (2 reports on file for this year).
- Verify recall 21V936000 (service brakes, hydraulic) has been completed.
- Verify recall 22V304000 (steering) has been completed.
OTHER YEARS OF THIS MODEL
BEST YEARS
WORST YEARS
FAQ
Is the 2021 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 2021 Kia RIO?
The most-reported component is steering, accounting for 27% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 2021 Kia RIO have?
2 recalls on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-07-11 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.