2018 Kia Niro recalls and problems
The 2018 Kia Niro has 3 safety recalls and 61 owner complaints filed with NHTSA. Recall repairs are free at any Kia dealer.
Recalls may cover only some 2018 Kia Niro vehicles. Check your VIN at NHTSA ↗ to see open recalls for your exact car.
2018 Kia Niro recalls
Recall 23V-534: Power Train
Problem: Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2017-2022 Niro and 2018-2022 Niro Plug-in Hybrid vehicles. Fluid may leak into the printed circuit board inside the hydraulic clutch actuator, which can result in an engine compartment fire.
Risk: A fire increases the risk of injury.
Fix: Dealers will inspect and replace the hydraulic clutch actuator as necessary and install a new fuse, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 29, 2023. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC276.
Recall 22V-836: Hybrid Propulsion System
Problem: Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2017-2018 Kia Niro hybrid electric vehicles previously recalled under recall 18V-666. The Main Relay within the Power Relay Assembly (PRA) may have inadequate connections between its contacts, causing increased electrical resistance, which can overheat the rear seats.
Risk: Overheated rear seats increase the risk of a fire.
Fix: Dealers will inspect the PRA and replace either the PRA or the Main Relay, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 9, 2023. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC256. This recall supersedes NHTSA recall number 18V-666. Vehicles already repaired under the previous recall will need to have the new remedy completed.
Recall 18V-666: Hybrid Propulsion System
Problem: Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2017-2018 Kia Niro hybrid electric vehicles. The Main Relay within the Power Relay Assembly (PRA) may have inadequate connections between its contacts, causing increased electrical resistance.
Risk: The increased electrical resistance can overheat the rear seat which is above the PRA, increasing the risk of a fire.
Fix: Kia will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the Power Relay Assembly (PRA) for damage. If no damage is found, the main relay will be replaced. If damage is found, the PRA will be replaced. These repairs will be performed free of charge. The recall began November 23, 2018. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC168.
2018 Kia Niro problems reported by owners
| Problem area | Reports | |
|---|---|---|
| Power Train | 19 | |
| Engine | 18 | |
| Electrical System | 18 | |
| Unknown or Other | 11 | |
| Service Brakes | 6 | |
| Vehicle Speed Control | 4 | |
| Structure | 3 | |
| Exterior Lighting | 2 | |
| Fuel/Propulsion System | 2 | |
| Engine and Engine Cooling | 1 | |
| Air Bags | 1 | |
| Seats | 1 |
Most reported parts
- Structure › Body — 3
Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 40,295 miles (median of owner reports).
Problems that are not covered by a recall are paid repairs; labor rates follow local mechanic pay — see what auto mechanics earn in each state.
Recent 2018 Kia Niro complaints
Owner reports filed with NHTSA, as written (personal details removed). Complaints are not verified by NHTSA.
Other Kia Niro years
Frequently asked questions
Does the 2018 Kia Niro have any recalls?
Yes — NHTSA lists 3 recalls for the 2018 Kia Niro: 23V-534 (power train), 22V-836 (hybrid propulsion system), 18V-666 (hybrid propulsion system). Not every vehicle is affected, so check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
What is the most common problem with the 2018 Kia Niro?
Owners report power train problems most often (19 reports), followed by engine (18). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 40,295 miles.
Are Kia recall repairs free?
Yes. Safety recall repairs are free at authorized Kia dealers, whether you are the first owner or bought the car used.