Engine complaints by model year
Which parts fail
Components named in complaints (engine, cooling system, oil leaks, timing chain, exhaust).
Mileage when the problem started
What owners report
No compression in cylinder 3 due to oil drainage in spark plug panel caused Loss of motive power and Almost a wreck so to vehicle shutting down on the interstate . As I look I see that this is in investigation already and needs to be took into consideration as soon as possible if our lives really matter to Kia as your customers . So very sad how the engines and fuel systems are on kias
Tl* the contact owns a 2009 Kia Rondo. While driving various speeds, the engine stalled and the power steering seized without warning. The contact pulled the vehicle over to the side of the road. The contact restarted the vehicle and it returned to normal. The vehicle was not taken to the dealer. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted. The approximate failure mileage was 85,000.
Tl* the contact owns a 2008 Kia Rondo. While driving at an unknown speed, the vehicle suddenly stopped moving and shut off. The contact was unable to restart the vehicle. A passerby inspected the vehicle and stated that the fuel pump or alternator May have failed. The passerby banged on the fuel tank a couple of times and the vehicle restarted. The vehicle was driven to the contact's home and was then towed to an independent mechanic who diagnosed that the fuel pump failed. The contact researched the failure online and found many unknown recalls on other vehicles. The contact attempted to call the manufacturer, but all lines LED back to roadside assistance; therefore, the contact was unable to speak with a live representative. The contact called bill Dodge Kia (3 saunders way, westbrook, me 04092, [phone]) and they initially hung up on her. …
During an inspection of the undercarriage on my Kia, an auto mechanic informed me that my oil pan had rusted through and engine oil was seeping through the metal. The cost of parts and labor for a replacement is approximately $250. The service manager of the auto repair garage stated that in his experience this was not an uncommon problem with some Kia and Hyundai models. In my opinion, this is a major manufacturing defect. That is, the metal used to manufacture a critical part on the engine (mine is 2.4 liter/4 cylinder) is defective either in composition or gauge. I've owned vehicles for over 40 years and, prior to this, I've never heard of an oil pan rusting through. As background, I purchased this vehicle new. I'm retired and I do not drive regularly (no commute). …
What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? 2.4L Theta engine has developed a knocking sound at 155,600 miles. Oil consumption is excessive. Currently vehicle has Pennzoil Platinum High Mileage 5W20 oil. It has been approximately 5600 miles since last oil and filter change, and vehicle was 2 qts low. Knocking sound is consistent with what others have reported with the later 2.4L Theta II engine. Symptom is consistent with spun rod bearing. It is currently available for inspection, pending me selling the car. How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? Car is a serious risk of stalling. Has previously stalled before. Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? No. Selling dealership is under different ownership and has disavowed prior ownership. …
My engine caught on fire ...the fire was started near or around the fuel rail/ or injectors. I researched Kia recalls and other years and other models of Kia's were part of a similar risk. I feel that this was a huge safety risk....luckily my car engine caught fire very close to my home, and I was able to pull in my driveway and call the fire dept. I was injured in this event....but the burn was minor. I am most concerned with Kia acknowledging the huge safety risk....and the loss that I and others could experience with this safety issue. My vehicle was in great shape before this engine fire.
NHTSA investigations
Loss of Motive Power
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) received a letter dated July 13, 2022, petitioning the Agency to initiate a safety defect investigation into loss of motive power allegations attributed to oil drain pan assembly failures on certain Hyundai Motor America, Inc. and Kia America, Inc. vehicles spanning Model Years (MY) 2005-2021.
Frequently asked questions
Which Kia Rondo years have engine problems?
By NHTSA complaints, the 2007 (28), 2008 (16) and 2009 (7) model years. Engine complaints make up 24% of all complaints for the 2007.
Is there a recall for Kia Rondo engine problems?
No. NHTSA lists no engine & cooling recall for any Kia Rondo model year. A widespread problem may still be covered by an extended warranty or a manufacturer service bulletin, so ask a dealer.
At what mileage do Kia Rondo engine problems start?
Across all years, half of the complaints with a recorded mileage happened before about 78,000 miles; 21% happened before 50,000 miles.
What part fails most often?
Owners most often name the engine (2 mentions).
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.