Used Kia Niro 2016-2022 reliability
Category: Family SUV
The Niro is well made, sensible, practical and reliable – and, in plug-in hybrid form, potentially cheap to run.
What should I look for in a used Kia Niro estate?
We haven’t heard of any serious issues concerning the Niro. That said, it pays to have a good poke around to see that everything works; all Niros are relatively well equipped, so there’s lots to check.
It’s also worth making sure that the Niro you’re inspecting has been looked after if it’s been with a family owner. Check the interior fixtures and fittings for scuffs or cracks, and pay attention to the upholstery to see if there are any stains.
A good check around the outside of the Niro is advisable, too. You’ll want to ensure there are no scrapes on the bodywork or kerb grazes on the wheels; minor ones are okay, but major ones point to a car that hasn’t been well cared for.
What are the most common problems with a used Kia Niro estate?
Possibility of an electrical relay overheating
On some Niros built between November 2016 and September 2017, there's a possible risk of an electrical relay overheating. Owners are to contact their local dealer to find out if their car is affected, and if it is, the dealer is to inspect the area for any heat damage and replace the relay with a modified part.
Burrs found in the hydraulic clutch actuator housing
Burrs produced during the manufacturing process have been found in the hydraulic actuator housings of some Niros produced between 1 November 2016 and 11 September 2017. The burrs can damage the oil seal and allow oil to seep out or, in extreme circumstances, cause a short circuit and a potential fire. You might see a warning light appear on the dashboard showing that there is a fault with the system.
Is a used Kia Niro estate reliable?
The Kia Niro came first out of 12 cars in our rundown of the most reliable used electric and hybrid cars in 2023. Not only did it top the table with a 100% score, but not a single owner reported a fault with their car.
Kia also performed well in our list of the most reliable used car brands, with a fifth place finish by virtue of a 89.6% score.
What’s more, Kia offers a seven-year warranty from new on its cars, which means even a three-year-old Niro has four years’ warranty left to run. While the warranty’s cover diminishes in the latter years of its term, it’s better than no warranty at all. If you want a used Niro with the maximum amount of warranty cover, consider buying from the Kia approved used program, because the warranty is topped back up to seven years on cars that are less than two years old.
