This page covers 2 recalls, 26 owner complaints and EPA fuel economy for the 2020 Kia Rio.
36 mpg combined
6.5 L/100km
Compact Cars
Fuel economy data from fueleconomy.gov (EPA / U.S. Dept. of Energy). Annual cost based on 15,000 mi/yr at 55% city driving and current fuel prices. MPG is U.S. gallons; L/100km converted.
Complaints for the 2020 Kia Rio are spread thin across several systems, with no single issue standing out by a wide margin. Engine, powertrain, and electrical each draw the same small number of reports. On the engine and powertrain side, owners describe unexpected stalling at stops with no warning light, and transmission behavior that includes failure to shift properly, RPM climbing without a corresponding increase in speed, and a lurching stop-and-go sensation during acceleration. A separate brake-related report describes the vehicle continuing to creep forward even with the brake pedal held down, with a mechanic pointing to the brake master cylinder. The electrical complaints include intermittent headlight operation and interior smoke with apparent wiring damage. Given the low total complaint volume, none of these patterns are especially dense, but the transmission and stalling reports do appear across more than one owner account.
26
Total Complaints
3
Crash-Related
5
Fire-Related
1
With Injuries
By System
The 2020 Kia Rio has 2 recalls, both centered on the brake master cylinder, which can fail and cause a soft or low brake pedal, longer stopping distances, and an increased risk of a crash.
The brake master cylinder can develop an internal seal leak that reduces hydraulic pressure to the brakes. When this happens, the pedal may travel further than normal before engaging, or feel soft underfoot, meaning the vehicle takes longer to stop than expected.
At a glance
What can fail
The brake master cylinder may fail, reducing braking power. This causes the brake pedal to travel farther and feel soft or low.
What the fix does
Kia will mail you instructions to visit a dealer, who will replace your brake master cylinder.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
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Complaints are owner-reported and reflect individual experiences, not confirmed defects. They are distinct from recalls. Data sourced from the national vehicle safety complaint database. See trending complaints →
At a glance
What can fail
The brake master cylinder may have sharp edges that damage the inner oil seal, reducing braking performance.
What the fix does
Dealers will replace the brake master cylinder at no cost to you.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
