The 2001 Kia Rio has 5 recalls, the most serious involving two separate fuel system fire risks: a fuel distributor assembly that can leak, and a fuel intake nipple that can crack and release fuel near potential ignition sources.
Both fuel concerns involve the fuel distributor area. In one case, the distributor assembly itself can develop leaks that allow raw fuel to escape into the engine compartment, where any nearby ignition source can start a fire. In the other, a small nipple on the fuel distributor can crack or fracture when the connecting fuel tube is removed or when pressure is accidentally applied during assembly or underhood repairs, again allowing fuel to escape with the same fire risk. Prior repair attempts on these components may not have fully resolved the issue, which is reflected in multiple filings covering the same area of the fuel system.
The remaining recalls involve the wheels. The wheels on certain vehicles can develop cracks over time from normal driving stress. Early on, this shows up as noise and vibration that get progressively worse. If a crack advances far enough, the wheel can break apart entirely while the vehicle is moving, causing a sudden loss of control.
At a glance
What can fail
Manufacturing flaw can cause wheels to crack from driving fatigue. Cracks create noise and vibration that worsen over time. Severe cracks may cause wheel separation, resulting in loss of control.
What the fix does
Dealers will replace all four wheels.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
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At a glance
What can fail
Manufacturing defect causes wheels to crack under long-term driving stress. Cracks lead to noise and vibration that worsen progressively.
What the fix does
Dealers replace all four wheels at no cost. Recall began June 22, 2005. Contact Kia at 1-800-333-4542.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The fuel intake nipple on the fuel distributor can crack or break when the fuel tube coupling is disconnected, or if the nipple is accidentally bumped during vehicle assembly or engine repairs.
What the fix does
Dealers will replace the fuel distributor and main fuel tube assemblies.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The fuel distributor's fuel intake nipple can crack or fracture when the fuel tube coupling is removed or if the nipple is accidentally bumped during assembly or repairs, potentially causing fuel leaks and fire.
What the fix does
A redesigned fuel distributor and main fuel tube assembly will be installed.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
Fuel may leak from the fuel distributor assembly due to manufacturing quality issues.
What the fix does
Dealers will inspect and replace the fuel distributor and fuel connector assemblies.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
