GradeKia Rio Reliability Grade
Above-average reliability
Grade a specific Kia Rio
Reliability changes from year to year. Pick a model year to see its grade, then add mileage and price to get a deal score and estimated miles remaining.
The Kia Rio earns a B+ overall reliability grade from GradeMyCar, with a B for its engine and an A for its transmission. It ranks 4th of 5 subcompact cars we grade. The engine (B) is the weaker of its two major components, so ask for oil-change records and have a mechanic check for leaks and oil consumption. Grades are based on 484 owner complaints filed with NHTSA for the 2013-2023 model years, adjusted for how many were sold.
Kia Rio reliability by year
Overall grade for each model year, from owner complaints filed with NHTSA. Tap a year to see its full grade.
Best years: 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2019, 2021 and 2022
Years to avoid: 2001 (stalling / loss of power)
How long does the Kia Rio last?
A rough estimate for the model across all years, not measured for each model year.
Kia Rio vs. other subcompact cars
| Model | Engine | Trans. | Overall |
|---|---|---|---|
| Toyota Yaris | A- | A | A |
| Hyundai Accent | B | A | A |
| Mini Cooper | A- | A- | A- |
| Kia Rio | B | A | B+ |
| Honda Fit | C+ | A- | B- |
Own a Kia Rio?
Tell other buyers how yours has held up: mileage, engine, and any problems with what they cost to fix. It takes about a minute, and your first car earns a free full report.
Rate your RioKia Rio reliability FAQ
Is the Kia Rio reliable?
Above-average reliability. The Kia Rio earns a B+ overall reliability grade from GradeMyCar, with a B for its engine and an A for its transmission. It ranks 4th of 5 subcompact cars we grade. The engine (B) is the weaker of its two major components, so ask for oil-change records and have a mechanic check for leaks and oil consumption. Grades are based on 484 owner complaints filed with NHTSA for the 2013-2023 model years, adjusted for how many were sold.
How many miles will a Kia Rio last?
We estimate a well-maintained Kia Rio lasts around 150,000 miles. That's a rough figure for the model across all years, not measured for each model year, so check the grade for the year you're looking at.
What are the best years for the Kia Rio?
Based on NHTSA owner complaints, the most reliable Kia Rio model years are 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2019, 2021 and 2022.
What Kia Rio years should I avoid?
Based on NHTSA owner complaints, the Kia Rio years to be most careful with are 2001. The 2001 grades a D overall (engine D, transmission C), and its top engine/transmission problem is stalling / loss of power.
Is the Kia Rio transmission reliable?
GradeMyCar grades the Kia Rio transmission an A (excellent reliability). Reliability varies by model year, so grade the specific year you're looking at.
Is the Kia Rio engine reliable?
GradeMyCar grades the Kia Rio engine a B (above-average reliability).