2002 Kia Rio: Recalls, Problems & MPG
Here are the deets on the 2002 Kia Rio: 1 recall, 128 owner complaints and up to 26 mpg combined.
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Recalls
1 vehicle recall from the manufacturer. Repairs are free. Check your VIN to see if one is still open on your car.
Fuel system Vehicle recall #04V179000 · 2004 · 187,790 vehicles
What's wrong: 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 engine compartment repairs.
Why it matters: Fuel leakage in the presence of an ignition source May result in a fire.
The fix: 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.
Most-reported problems
Owner complaints filed with NHTSA, by component. One complaint can list several components. 6 mention a fire, 27 injuries and 1 deaths were reported.
What owners describe
- Engine & cooling (39): the most common themes are stalls / loses power (24), warning light on (4).
- Airbags (21): the most common themes are fails to deploy (12).
- Brakes (hydraulic) (18): the most common themes are noise or vibration (5), brake failure / soft pedal (4).
- Seat belts (16): the most common themes are stalls / loses power (2).
The 2002 Kia Rio has 128 owner complaints, ranking #3 of 24 Rio model years for complaints (2.4× the average Rio year). Complaints peaked in 2003 (34 filed that year). The typical problem showed up when the car was about 2 years old, at a median of 36,750 miles. Neighboring years: 2001 (223 complaints, 3 recalls), 2003 (74 complaints, 3 recalls).
Engines & fuel economy (EPA)
| Engine | Transmission | Drive | City | Hwy | Comb. | Fuel |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1.5 L 4-cyl | Manual 5-spd | Front-Wheel Drive | 23 | 29 | 26 | Regular |
| 1.5 L 4-cyl | Automatic 4-spd | Front-Wheel Drive | 22 | 27 | 24 | Regular |
Want the full repair deets? Get the factory manual.
Recall and complaint data tells you what goes wrong. A service manual tells you how to fix it: torque specs, wiring diagrams, fluid capacities and step-by-step procedures for the 2002 Kia Rio.
Closest thing to the factory manual for most years. Pay once, keep it.
Most $25–$78, one-timePro-shop repair procedures, wiring diagrams and TSBs for your exact car.
From $19.99/mo · $39.99/yrOEM procedures, specs and recall/TSB info, the same source many shops use.
From $19.99/mo · $59.99/yrStep-by-step photos written from a real teardown. Great for first-timers.
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FAQ
Does the 2002 Kia Rio have any recalls?
Yes. NHTSA lists 1 vehicle recall for the 2002 Kia Rio. Recall repairs are free at any dealer, no matter how old the car is. Check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
What are the most common 2002 Kia Rio problems?
Owners have filed 128 complaints with NHTSA. The most-reported areas are engine & cooling (39), airbags (21), brakes (hydraulic) (18).
What gas mileage does the 2002 Kia Rio get?
EPA ratings run up to 26 mpg combined (1.5 L, Manual 5-spd), across 2 engine and transmission combos.
Where can I get a 2002 Kia Rio repair manual?
eManualOnline sells downloadable manuals, Mitchell 1 DIY and ALLDATAdiy sell online access to factory repair data, and Haynes sells printed guides and online access. Pick a download if you want to keep it, or a subscription for wiring diagrams and TSBs.