2022 Kia Niro

2022 Kia Niro

The 2022 Kia Niro is a compact hybrid crossover SUV that combines fuel efficiency with a comfortable and well-equipped interior. It comes standard with a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine and a six-speed automatic transmission, producing 139 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque. Optional powertrains include a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) with a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine and a 6-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, producing a combined 180 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque. Also available is a fully electric (EV) model with a single electric motor and a single-speed transmission, producing 201 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque.

Owners of the 2022 Kia Niro generally praise its fuel efficiency, spacious interior, and comfortable ride. However, some have reported issues with the vehicle’s engine, transmission, suspension, electrical system, exterior, and interior.

Engine

• 1.6-liter Four-Cylinder Engine
  • Engine Misfire:
    • Description/Symptoms: Rough idle, loss of power, illuminated check engine light
    • Solution: Replace faulty ignition coils and spark plugs
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Intake Manifold Gasket Failure:
    • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, engine overheating, white smoke from exhaust
    • Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
• 1.6-liter Four-Cylinder PHEV Engine
  • No Issues Found

Transmission

• Six-Speed Automatic Transmission
  • Slipping Gears:
    • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, loss of power
    • Solution: Replace faulty transmission solenoid
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
• Six-Speed Dual-Clutch Automatic Transmission (PHEV)
  • Shifting Hesitations:
    • Description/Symptoms: Delays when shifting gears, lurching
    • Solution: Update transmission software
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: Free (under warranty)

Suspension

• Rear Shock Absorber Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, excessive body roll, clunking noises
  • Solution: Replace rear shock absorbers
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
• Strut Mount Bearing Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Squeaking noises when turning, uneven tire wear
  • Solution: Replace strut mount bearings
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+

Electrical

• Battery Drain:
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery dies prematurely, difficulty starting the vehicle
  • Solution: Identify and repair electrical components causing drain
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on the cause
• Faulty Wiring Harness:
  • Description/Symptoms: Electrical malfunctions, flickering lights, no power to certain components
  • Solution: Replace faulty wiring harness
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+

Exterior

• Body Panel Alignment Issues:
  • Description/Symptoms: Uneven gaps between body panels, paint chipping
  • Solution: Adjust and align body panels
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
• Headlight Condensation:
  • Description/Symptoms: Moisture accumulates inside the headlight assemblies
  • Solution: Replace headlight assemblies
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+

Interior

• Dashboard Squeaks and Rattles:
  • Description/Symptoms: Noises coming from the dashboard area
  • Solution: Identify and tighten loose trim pieces
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
• Climate Control Malfunction:
  • Description/Symptoms: AC or heater not working, temperature fluctuations
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair faulty climate control components
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+

Summary

Overall, the 2022 Kia Niro is a well-rounded SUV with a few notable issues. While the engine and transmission issues can be costly to fix, the suspension, electrical, exterior, and interior issues are generally less severe and expensive.