2019 Kia Rio

The 2019 Kia Rio is a subcompact sedan and hatchback available with a 1.6L inline-4 engine paired with a 6-speed manual or automatic transmission, or a 1.3L inline-4 engine paired with a CVT transmission. The 1.6L engine produces 123 horsepower and 113 lb-ft of torque, while the 1.3L engine produces 130 horsepower and 179 lb-ft of torque. The Rio is praised for its spacious interior, fuel efficiency, and affordability, but criticized for its lack of power, unrefined ride, and outdated infotainment system.

Engine

1.6L Inline-4

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Consuming excessive amounts of oil, requiring frequent top-offs
  • Solution: Replace or repair the piston rings
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

1.3L Inline-4

• No Issues Found

Transmission

6-Speed Manual

1.6L Inline-4

• Difficult Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Experiencing difficulty shifting gears, especially into 5th and 6th gears
  • Solution: Replace or repair the transmission synchronizers
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

6-Speed Automatic

1.6L Inline-4

• Transmission Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission slipping or refusing to engage gears
  • Solution: Replace the transmission
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

CVT Transmission

1.3L Inline-4

• CVT Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle losing power or experiencing jerky acceleration
  • Solution: Replace or repair the CVT belt and/or pulleys
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut Spring Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive noise or knocking sounds from the suspension, especially over bumps
  • Solution: Replace the strut springs
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Electrical System Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: Various electrical issues, such as flickering lights, radio not working, or power windows failing
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the specific electrical fault
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Fog Lamp Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Fog lights not functioning or flickering
  • Solution: Replace the fog lamp bulbs or repair the wiring harness
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $250+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Interior Panel Rattling
  • Description/Symptoms: Loose or vibrating interior panels, especially at higher speeds
  • Solution: Tighten or replace the interior panel clips
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• HVAC System Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: Heating or air conditioning system not working properly
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the specific HVAC component
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2019 Kia Rio has several issues that can range in severity and cost. Engine issues, including excessive oil consumption and transmission failures, can be major concerns, while other issues, such as interior panel rattling and fog lamp failure, are typically less severe and less expensive to repair. Overall, the Rio’s reliability is average, and it is essential to consider the potential costs of repairs before purchasing this vehicle.