Rio (4th)
NHTSA Safety Ratings About NHTSA ratings
Engine Reliability Ratings
DOHC Gamma
1.6LView details
Complaint Breakdown
Known Issues
1 additional engine variant with fewer than 10 complaints not shown.
Vehicle-Level Issues
These issues affect the Kia Rio regardless of engine variant.
Recalls (2)
Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2010-2019 Borrego, 2014-2016 Cadenza, 2010-2013 Forte, Forte Koup, Sportage, 2015-2018 K900, 2011-2015 Optima, 2011-2013 Optima Hybrid, Soul, 2012-2017 Rio, 2011-2014 Sorento, and 2010-2011 Rondo vehicles. The Hydraulic Electronic Control Unit (HECU) may experience an electrical short, which can result in an engine compartment fire while parked or driving.
Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2016-2017 Rio, 2016-2018 Optima, 2017-2018 Optima Hybrid and Optima Plug-in Hybrid vehicles. The trunk latch base may crack, preventing the opening of the trunk from the inside. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 401, "Internal Trunk Release."
All Generations
Alternatives in Compact Sedan
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common 2012-2017 Kia Rio problems?
The 2012-2017 Kia Rio has accumulated 409 NHTSA complaints. The most frequently reported problem areas are Engine, Brakes, Safety Systems. As with any used vehicle, a pre-purchase inspection and vehicle history report are recommended.
Which Kia Rio engine is most reliable?
The 2012-2017 Kia Rio was offered with 2 engine options. Based on NHTSA complaint data, the 1.6L ?-cyl has the lowest complaint density and is considered the most reliable choice for buyers.
Is the 2012-2017 Kia Rio a good used car?
The 2012-2017 Kia Rio can be a solid used car purchase depending on trim, mileage, and maintenance history. With 409 total NHTSA complaints on record, prospective buyers should review the known problem areas and check for open recalls before buying.
How many NHTSA complaints does the 2012-2017 Kia Rio have?
The 2012-2017 Kia Rio has 409 complaints filed with NHTSA as of our latest data pull. Complaint counts reflect owner-reported issues and do not necessarily indicate defects or safety risks on their own.
What recalls affect the 2012-2017 Kia Rio?
There are 2 NHTSA recalls affecting some 2012-2017 Kia Rio vehicles. Recall status varies by VIN — check the NHTSA recall database at recalls.nhtsa.dot.gov with your specific VIN to confirm which campaigns apply.
What should I check before buying a used Kia Rio?
Before buying a used Kia Rio, verify all open recalls are completed via the NHTSA VIN lookup tool. Pay particular attention to Engine, Brakes, Safety Systems, which are the most commonly reported problem areas. Request maintenance records, have an independent mechanic inspect the vehicle, and run a vehicle history report to check for prior accidents or title issues.
What are the NHTSA crash test ratings for the Rio?
The 2017 Kia Rio received an overall 4-star safety rating from NHTSA. Frontal crash: 4 stars. Side crash: 5 stars. Rollover: 4 stars (11.6% rollover probability). Electronic Stability Control: Standard. Forward Collision Warning: No. Lane Departure Warning: No. These ratings are based on standardized crash tests conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
Data from NHTSA federal complaints database. 409 complaints analyzed. Data confidence: high. Last updated: 2026-04-07.