2017 Kia Rio Problems: 3 Known Issues
2017 model year · 289+ owner reports · Updated October 2026
According to Au7o's analysis of 289+ owner reports, the 2017 Kia Rio has 3 documented known issues, with 1 rated critical. The most serious is ABS/ESC control unit short can cause an engine-bay fire — recall 23V652. The most commonly reported issue is A/C blows warm because the compressor won't engage (owner reports) with 289 owner reports. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.
2017 · All trims · All engines
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All 3 Known Issues
NHTSA Recalls2 recalls
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:TRUNK LID:LATCH
Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2016-2017 Rio, 2016-2018 Optima, 2017-2018 Optima Hybrid and Optima Plug-in Hybrid vehicles. The trunk latch base may crack, 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."
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP:CONTROL UNIT/MODULE
Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2010-2019 Borrego, 2014-2016 Cadenza, 2010-2013 Forte, Forte Koup, Sportage, 2015-2018 K900, 2011-2015 Optima, 2011-2013 Optima Hybrid, Soul, 2012-2017 Rio, 2011-2014 Sorento, and 2010-2011 Rondo vehicles. The Hydraulic Electronic Control Unit (HECU) may experience an electrical short, which can result in an engine compartment fire while parked or driving.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common Kia Rio problems?
According to Au7o's analysis of 289+ owner reports, the 2017 Kia Rio has 3 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: ABS/ESC control unit short can cause an engine-bay fire — recall 23V652, Trunk interior emergency release may not work — recall 23V594, A/C blows warm because the compressor won't engage (owner reports). Of these, 1 is rated critical and should be addressed promptly.
Is the Kia Rio reliable?
The 2017 Kia Rio has 3 known issues documented across 289+ owner reports. 1 issue is rated critical: ABS/ESC control unit short can cause an engine-bay fire — recall 23V652. Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.
What is the 2012-2017 Kia Rio ABS/ESC control unit short can cause an engine-bay fire — recall 23V652?
The hydraulic electronic control unit (HECU) that runs the anti-lock brakes and stability control may develop an electrical short that draws excessive current, which can cause an engine-compartment fire while the car is driven or parked. Kia states the exact cause of the short is… Severity: high.
What is the 2016-2017 Kia Rio Trunk interior emergency release may not work — recall 23V594?
A crack can develop in the pawl of the trunk latch base subassembly, which can intermittently make the trunk's interior emergency release lever inoperative, so the car does not meet the federal internal trunk release standard (FMVSS 401). A person inside the trunk may not be able… Severity: medium.
What is the 2012-2017 Kia Rio A/C blows warm because the compressor won't engage (owner reports)?
Owners report the air conditioning suddenly blowing warm air with the compressor clutch not engaging. In one 2013 Rio the compressor still would not run with power applied directly to it; in a 2015 Rio the A/C worked when the compressor was powered directly. Applies to: Third-gen… Severity: low.
Content on this page was compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, owner reports, and public automotive data. While we strive for accuracy, this information may contain errors. Always verify repair procedures and specifications with your vehicle's service manual or a qualified mechanic.