2003 Kia Rio Base review from North America
"The KIA RIO is an annoyance"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
The brakes squeak continuously and were "turned down" at 11,000 miles and sometimes the automatic locks do not lock unless you push them down as hard as you can.
General comments?
I tried on several occasions to get the dealer and the manufacturer to do something about the brakes and the locks. They told me nothing was wrong with the brakes even though they already had to be resurfaced. They blamed that on me driving two-footed, which I do not. They said it was normal for breaks to squeak especially in the morning. The brakes squeak all day long. As for the locks, they could not get the locks to act up in their presence so they refused to do anything about it. I talked to the dealer and the manufacturer and no one will do anything. I guess I just have to live with the fact that I bought my very first brand new car and I have the same problems as I would if I had a used car. I will never buy a KIA again and will encourage everyone I know not to either.
Recommended Reviews:
![]() ![]() | A lot for the money |
![]() ![]() | Great Car |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | No |
| First year of ownership | 2003 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2003 |
| Engine and transmission | 1.4 liter Automatic |
| Performance marks | 5/10 |
| Reliability marks | 5/10 |
| Comfort marks | 7/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 1/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 5/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 8 miles |
| Most recent distance | 20000 miles |
| Previous car | Mitsubishi Mirage |
| Date of Entry | 30th September, 2003 |



