2019 Kia Rio recalls and problems

The 2019 Kia Rio has 1 safety recall and 22 owner complaints filed with NHTSA. Recall repairs are free at any Kia dealer.

Recalls

Complaints

Crashes / fires

4 / 1

Injuries / deaths

4 / 0

Recalls may cover only some 2019 Kia Rio vehicles. Check your VIN at NHTSA ↗ to see open recalls for your exact car.

2019 Kia Rio recalls

Recall 21V-622: Latches/Locks/Linkages

Reported Aug 9, 2021 · 253,074 vehicles affected · Kia Motors America

Problem: Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2016-2018 Forte 4-door, Forte Koup 2-door, and 2018-2019 Rio 4-door vehicles. The trunk latch may become damaged, preventing the opening of the trunk from the inside. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 401, "Internal Trunk Release."

Risk: A person inside the trunk compartment may become trapped, increasing their risk of injury.

Fix: Dealers will replace the trunk latch assembly, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on February 10, 2022. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC216.

2019 Kia Rio problems reported by owners

Problem area	Reports
Unknown or Other	8
Engine	6
Air Bags	3
Steering	2
Power Train	2
Suspension	1
Service Brakes	1
Electronic Stability Control (ESC)	1
Vehicle Speed Control	1
Electrical System	1
Other/I Am Not Sure	1
Structure	1

Most reported parts

Structure › Body — 1
Back Over Prevention › Rearview System Braking — 1
Lane Departure › Warning — 1

Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 8,000 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 2019 Kia Rio complaints

Owner reports filed with NHTSA, as written (personal details removed). Complaints are not verified by NHTSA.

Exterior Lighting · reported Oct 8, 2026

The trunk latch is broken which is a known recall for KIA but not for my car model. There is no way to access the trunk otherwise. Now my tail light is out and cannot be fixed because I cannot access the trunk. There is NO OTHER WAY TO ACCESS THE TRUNK.

Back Over Prevention · reported Jun 14, 2026

There was no accident the radio/backup camera shuts down completely on the inside of the car when the car is too hot inside

Structure · reported Apr 21, 2026

2019 Kia Rio Hatchback trunk latch failure buzzing actuator but won't open emergency release does not work dealer says not covered under recall #21V622000 which covers the trunk for 4 door 2019 Kia Rio and this appears to be the same or similar issue with the trunk emergency release not opening creating a safety risk

Engine · reported Jan 13, 2026

On the morning of October 15th, the oil light of my 2019 Kia Rio came on, immediately followed by extreme engine noise, just before the engine locked. I had the vehicle towed to a nearby service center. They checked and reported that all oil had leaked out and motor had locked. I then had vehicle towed to Kia dealer and requested a motor replacement. They not only charged me for a diagnostic test that determined the motor had locked but also refused to replace the engine without me paying $12,000. The vehicle's motor has the same problems as the motors in 2011-2019 kia Engine Defect Settlement…

Engine · reported Dec 17, 2025

The engine experienced a rod bearing failure resulting in internal engine damage and sudden loss of normal engine operation. The vehicle and failed engine components are currently available for inspection upon request. The engine failure occurred while the vehicle was traveling at high speed on the freeway, resulting in sudden loss of engine power. This created a significant safety risk, as loss of power at freeway speeds increases the likelihood of collision with surrounding vehicles and posed a danger to myself and other motorists. The failure was diagnosed and confirmed by a Kia dealership…

Other Kia Rio years

2023 2022 2021 202020192018 2017 2016 2015 2014 2013 2012 2011 2010 2009 2008 2007 2006 2005 2004 2003 2002 2001 2000

Compare all Kia Rio years · All Kia models

Frequently asked questions

Does the 2019 Kia Rio have any recalls?

Yes — NHTSA lists 1 recall for the 2019 Kia Rio: 21V-622 (latches/locks/linkages). Not every vehicle is affected, so check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.

What is the most common problem with the 2019 Kia Rio?

Owners report unknown or other problems most often (8 reports), followed by engine (6). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 8,000 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.