Most common 2004 Kia Rio Cinco problems
Share of the 12 complaints; one complaint can involve more than one system. "~" is the median mileage when the problem started.
Kia Rio Cinco complaints by model year
Best Rio Cinco years: 2003, 2004. Years to avoid: 2002. Compare all years →
2004 Kia Rio Cinco recalls (1)
Fuel system, gasoline › Delivery
On certain passenger vehicles, the fuel intake nipple of the fuel distributor is subject to fracture or cracking during removal of the quick connect coupling securing the main fuel tube assembly to the fuel intake nipple, or when force is accidentally applied to the intake nipple during the vehicle assembly process or during…
Remedy: Dealers will replace the fuel distributor and main fuel tube assemblies. The recall began June 18, 2004. Owners should contact Kia at 1-800-333-4542.
What 2004 Kia Rio Cinco owners say
Transmission & drivetrain
While on a long road trip, I experienced a problem with the clutch on my 2004 Kia Rio Cinco. At highway speed I attempted to pass a truck when, at approximately 70 MPH, the clutch partially disengaged causing my acceleration to cease. I let off the throttle and when re-engaging the throttle, the clutch slipped again. I had to let off,apply brakes, and swerve in behind the truck I was attempting to pass to avoid being struck by an oncoming truck. The car seemed to operate perfectly after this incident but I contacted customer service by phone and was told to have it looked at by a dealer as soon as possible. When I finally found a dealer that had the time to look at it a day later, I was told it was their policy to not repair clutch problems since they are called a "wear item". They also told me the clutch plate looked to be badly burned but I could finish the trip if I babied it. …
While driving between 30-35 MPH vehicle suddenly stopped accelerating. A police office had to use his vehicle to push the consumer's vehicle to the side of the road. Vehicle was towed to the dealership, where the transmission was replaced. The failure recurred while driving at highway speeds. This almost resulted in vehicle being hit by oncoming traffic. The vehicle was coasted of the highway, then towed to the dealership, who replaced the transmission again.
Suspension
OK, my car makes a thumping noise under the tire, thought was the wheel bearing it's not someone said it was the axle I don't know also, the engine light has been on I changed the air filter, I read that someone else had problems with the filter, I read that the axle rusts out, I think this car should be recalled people are complaining about the same problems and Kia should fix it for free, I don't think I should pay for that the car doesn't get driven that much and I can't go far places with it in fear that it might break down somewhere, I feel like suing Kia for making a crappy cat that doesn't last. I've never had a car like this before, the doors are broken even the hatch won't open anymore, what the [redacted].
The Kia was under warranty at this time: it required a new transmission. I was told it was about to 'drop'. Despite being under warranty, I was made to pay for it. 2007 the passenger rear door stopped working and would not open. In 2008 the electrical went. No interior lights, radio and no 'door ajar' warning. 2008 the door behind driver would not open. 2013 the driver door would not open followed by the hatchback. Right now only 2 doors are able to be locked due to this issue. A new clutch was put in during 2012. The shifting has always been a little sticky with irregular timing. I purchased this car brand new and cannot believe the safety issues concerning the doors, above all. I cannot believe that I bought the only 'lemon'..or am among a few Kia Rio Cinco owners facing these problems.
Frequently asked questions
Is the 2004 Kia Rio Cinco a good car?
Based on 12 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the 2004 Rio Cinco rates average: 35% fewer complaints than a typical year of the Rio Cinco at the same age. It is one of the best Rio Cinco years by this measure. Complaint counts don't account for sales volume or individual maintenance, so have any used car inspected before buying.
What is the most common problem with the 2004 Kia Rio Cinco?
The transmission & drivetrain — 3 complaints, 25% of all complaints for this model year, most often about clutch assembly. Next are the suspension (3) and engine & cooling (2).
How many recalls does the 2004 Kia Rio Cinco have?
There is 1 recall for the 2004 Kia Rio Cinco, the most recent from April 9, 2004 (delivery). Recall repairs are free at any authorized dealer — check whether yours has been done with the VIN recall check.
What are the best and worst years of the Kia Rio Cinco?
The best years by complaints, compared at the same age, are 2003 and 2004. Years to avoid or approach with caution: 2002. See the full Kia Rio Cinco years comparison.
At what mileage do 2004 Kia Rio Cinco problems happen?
The median mileage reported in complaints is about 30,000 miles; 60% of problems with a recorded mileage started before 50,000 miles.
Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) — owner complaints through October 20, 2026, recalls and defect investigations; fuel economy from the EPA. Complaints are unverified reports and are not proof of a defect. How we rate model years.