2019 Kia Rio Reliability ReportKeepScore 83/100 · top failure points · buy or avoid
Quick Facts · 2019 Kia Rio
- Scores 5 points below the strongest nearby year — the 2018 Kia Rio earns a 88.
- The system most likely to surface first: engine (gdi carbon buildup) (moderate severity).
- Has 1 NHTSA recall on record — the most notable involves the latches/locks/linkages:trunk lid:latch.
2019 Kia Rio: Buy or Avoid?
The 2019 Kia Rio stands out as a remarkably dependable and budget-friendly choice in the subcompact segment. While it may not boast luxury, its robust powertrain and generally trouble-free electrical system make it a smart purchase for those seeking reliable, no-frills transportation.
Biggest Strengths
- Reliable 1.6L GDI engine (with proper maintenance)
- Simple, robust drivetrain
- Excellent fuel economy
2019 Kia Rio — Known Trouble Spots
The systems that break first on the 2019 Kia Rio. Mileage windows, repair costs, and fix-before-you-buy notes are in the full report.
Safety Recalls on the 2019 Kia Rio
1 recall on record from NHTSA. Check your VIN atnhtsa.gov to see if the repair was performed.
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:TRUNK LID:LATCH
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2016-2018 Forte 4-door, Forte Koup 2-door, and 2018-2019 Rio 4-door vehicles. The trunk latch may become damaged, 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."
What breaks on the 2019 Kia Rio?
Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.
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Kia Rio — Year-by-Year Comparison
Compare KeepScores across nearby years of the Kia Rio. Click any year for its full report.
Competing 2019s Worth a Look
Similar class, similar year range — ranked by KeepScore.
Relevant Products for Your 2019 Kia Rio
Parts and accessories matched to your 2019 Kia Rio
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Frequently Asked Questions
Just bought a 2019 Kia Rio? Keep it that way.
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- Fuel & mileage tracker
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