← New search

2023 Kia Niro

Owner reports · Recalls · Investigations

Similar to other model years

Owner complaints for the 2023 Kia Niro do not stand out strongly from the model-year median of 34.5.

About this comparison →

How this year compares

Owner complaints by model year

Other model years Selected year
Compare all Niro years →

Counts vary with age, sales and reporting. They are not failure rates.

What owners reported most

All reported categories

Tap a category to read its complaints. One report may name several components.

When problems were reported

Mileage at the reported incident

Limited mileage data: 5 of 44 reports include usable mileage. There isn’t enough coverage to show a useful chart.

NHTSA’s mileage field refers to the reported incident, not necessarily the filing date. This shows report counts, not the likelihood of a failure.

What to inspect

Issues worth paying extra attention to based on owner reports.

  • Electrical System. Review the 14 owner reports in this category and discuss these concerns during a pre-purchase inspection. Read reports →
  • Forward Collision Avoidance. Review the 7 owner reports in this category and discuss these concerns during a pre-purchase inspection. Read reports →
  • Air Bags. Review the 6 owner reports in this category and discuss these concerns during a pre-purchase inspection. Read reports →

NHTSA owner reports · September 18, 2026 snapshot.

8 crash reports0 fire reports5 injury reports

What owners actually said

44 reports
Mileage unknown · Sep 5, 2026
Electrical SystemFuel/propulsion SystemService Brakes

My 2023 Kia Niro Hybrid has a recurring intermittent electrical defect. Warnings appear together: Check Hybrid System, Check Engine, Forward Collision, Rear Cross-Traffic, Lane Keeping, Driver Attention, ESC, Brake, Auto Hold. They appear and persist while driving, during which stability control, automatic emergency braking, lan…

Read full complaint

My 2023 Kia Niro Hybrid has a recurring intermittent electrical defect. Warnings appear together: Check Hybrid System, Check Engine, Forward Collision, Rear Cross-Traffic, Lane Keeping, Driver Attention, ESC, Brake, Auto Hold. They appear and persist while driving, during which stability control, automatic emergency braking, lane keeping, and related safety assists are disabled. Once, the vehicle would not start and was temporarily disabled, recovering after several minutes. This creates risk from loss of all electronic safety assists in traffic and from the vehicle failing to start when needed. Stored codes show lost CAN communication among multiple modules: U0101, C1611, C1693, U0111, U0164, U0293, U042B, U1341. Confirmed by two Kia dealerships over five warranty visits. V1–2 (Coughlin Kia, Dublin OH): software updates; warnings returned. V3 (Ricart Kia, Columbus OH): inspected, released OK; warnings returned. V4 (Ricart): Kia Techline case [XXX] opened; CAN signal confirmed out of spec at a passenger kick panel connector; dash harness replaced per Techline under warranty (~$2,800). V5 (current): same warnings returned within days, confirmed by the dealership; vehicle is in the dealer's possession for continued diagnosis and available for inspection. Warnings first appeared June 2026 at ~58,500 miles, recurring since. Current mileage ~59,700. No crash or injury. Kia Consumer Affairs case open. Note: attached RO [XXX] says no issues found after repair — outdated; warnings returned within days, vehicle back at dealer. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ODI #11762384

Mileage unknown · Sep 3, 2026
Electrical SystemUnknown Or Other

When stopping for a traffic sign or light, the car announces that it is shifting into park and does so. The car then will not shift into drive or reverse and is essentially disabled. Turning off the car completely and turning it back on will not return it to "Ready to Drive" mode. Jump starting the car, provided it is jump st…

Read full complaint

When stopping for a traffic sign or light, the car announces that it is shifting into park and does so. The car then will not shift into drive or reverse and is essentially disabled. Turning off the car completely and turning it back on will not return it to "Ready to Drive" mode. Jump starting the car, provided it is jump started twice, will clear the problem and move the car to "Ready to Drive" mode. The car has been towed to dealers on three occasions with the technicians reporting they cannot reproduce the problem and no codes are being logged. On the third occasion, the dealer replaced the 12-volt battery. The failure occurred on the dealer's lot when I arrived to retrieve my car, but the technician reported that the problem went away and no codes were logged, so I should leave with my car. Subsequent to the battery replacement and including the failure on the dealer's lot, the problem has occurred 6 times in 7 days. Prior to the 12v battery replacement, the problem occurred once every 4 to six weeks. The problem has occurred a total of 9 times between April 25th and August 31st, 2026. This is an extremely dangerous problem as failures occur in traffic and require police assistance to safely tow or jump start the car. Should this failure occur during a left turn or on a highway, the outcome could be catastrophic. The car is available for inspection upon request. There are no warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure other than the announcement that the parking brake is being automatically engaged. I have opened a case with KIA Customer Care.

NHTSA ODI #11761922

Mileage unknown · Sep 2, 2026
Electrical System

After sitting 2 weeks at airport parking. 12 volt Battery dead . Unsafe to repeatedly have to take out emergency key and pull handle cover off and get in car hit 12v button to start. The dealer we took it to refuses to replace the 12 volt integrated battery. It has happened multiple times. They checked battery and said it was ok…

Read full complaint

After sitting 2 weeks at airport parking. 12 volt Battery dead . Unsafe to repeatedly have to take out emergency key and pull handle cover off and get in car hit 12v button to start. The dealer we took it to refuses to replace the 12 volt integrated battery. It has happened multiple times. They checked battery and said it was okay. Repeated having to push 12 volt button unacceptable and unsafe.

NHTSA ODI #11761723

Mileage unknown · Jul 26, 2026
Electrical SystemEnginePower Train

My 2023 Kia Niro Hybrid EX has experienced multiple warning messages and unresolved concerns after previous repairs. After the first recall repair, I began receiving intermittent warning messages while driving. The messages appeared briefly and disappeared before I could safely document them. After a second repair, the transmiss…

Read full complaint

My 2023 Kia Niro Hybrid EX has experienced multiple warning messages and unresolved concerns after previous repairs. After the first recall repair, I began receiving intermittent warning messages while driving. The messages appeared briefly and disappeared before I could safely document them. After a second repair, the transmission was replaced. Shortly afterward, the vehicle displayed an overheating warning. I returned to the dealership, but they stated they could not find a problem. While traveling out of state, on July 6, 2026, the vehicle displayed warnings indicating that the 12V battery needed to be charged. On July 8, 2026, the vehicle would turn on, but the engine would not start or operate. Multiple attempts to jump-start the vehicle failed, including using a portable jump pack, another vehicle, and assistance from a tow truck driver. The vehicle displayed warnings stating that the 12V battery needed charging, the battery was draining, and that the hybrid system needed to be checked. Because the vehicle could not be operated and I was stranded away from home, I am concerned about the reliability and safety of the vehicle. The vehicle has undergone multiple repairs, including a transmission replacement, but I continue to experience warning messages and a loss of confidence in the vehicle's ability to operate reliably. I am requesting that this issue be reviewed for possible safety concerns.

NHTSA ODI #11752872

Mileage unknown · Jul 9, 2026
Unknown Or Other

There's a problem with the horn in my car. Either the high or low. The problem is intermittent and the horn will fail and it is not available in emergency situations. I brought this to the dealership and made them aware but they refuse to take this seriously and two adequately evaluate the car. They blew the horn and said it was…

Read full complaint

There's a problem with the horn in my car. Either the high or low. The problem is intermittent and the horn will fail and it is not available in emergency situations. I brought this to the dealership and made them aware but they refuse to take this seriously and two adequately evaluate the car. They blew the horn and said it was working. It was not working and I said it was intermittent and they said well we could not find any problem. There were no warning lights. Nothing else. The horn is just intermittently failing.

NHTSA ODI #11749268

71,000 miles · Jul 6, 2026
SteeringWheels

The contact owns a 2023 Kia Niro. The contact stated that while her husband was driving at 40 MPH, the vehicle hydroplaned and pulled to the left unexpectedly. The contact initially contacted the dealer and was informed of the headlamp replacement and general inspection. Additionally, while the contact's husband was driving, the…

Read full complaint

The contact owns a 2023 Kia Niro. The contact stated that while her husband was driving at 40 MPH, the vehicle hydroplaned and pulled to the left unexpectedly. The contact initially contacted the dealer and was informed of the headlamp replacement and general inspection. Additionally, while the contact's husband was driving, the driver-side front tire experienced a blowout near a service station; the technician advised that the tire exhibited steel tread. An independent mechanic attempted a wheel alignment but discovered a rusted, bent tie rod, preventing the service. Following dealer instructions, the vehicle was towed to the dealer, where the wheels, both hub bearings, tie rods, and brake calipers were replaced. Despite the repairs, the owner refused to reclaim the vehicle due to the recurring mechanical defects. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 71,000.

NHTSA ODI #11748554

Mileage unknown · May 22, 2026
Chest Clip, Buckle, Harness

Car seat lower hip straps frayed on both sides. Had we been in an accident I have no doubt the strap would have ripped. I have 3 personal friends who checked their same Evenflo Revolve 350 car seat to find fraying in the exact same spots. And dozens of posts online with pictures showing the exact issues as well. The integrity of…

Read full complaint

Car seat lower hip straps frayed on both sides. Had we been in an accident I have no doubt the strap would have ripped. I have 3 personal friends who checked their same Evenflo Revolve 350 car seat to find fraying in the exact same spots. And dozens of posts online with pictures showing the exact issues as well. The integrity of that straps in these seats are obviously compromised for so many people to be having them fray in the exact location. Evenflo is telling us all it's due to "external factors such as a mouse" but it would not all be the same car seat it happens to, in the exact same place on the seat, to people who drive their vehicles daily and have no other wings of rodents in their vehicle or issues with the other car seats installed in the vehicle.Baby/children's car seat safety is SO important and the strength of these straps needs investigated before someone is in a crash and their child's harness rips! Uploading my own personal photos-but I have many screenshots of pictures and posts from others having the same issue that I can provide upon request.

NHTSA ODI #11739436

11,000 miles · Apr 23, 2026
Vehicle Speed Control

The contact owns a 2023 Kia Niro. The contact stated that while driving at 25 MPH, the vehicle independently accelerated. The contact constantly depressed the brake pedal to stop the vehicle. The contact was able to coast the vehicle to the residence while depressing the brake pedal to prevent the unintended acceleration. Neith…

Read full complaint

The contact owns a 2023 Kia Niro. The contact stated that while driving at 25 MPH, the vehicle independently accelerated. The contact constantly depressed the brake pedal to stop the vehicle. The contact was able to coast the vehicle to the residence while depressing the brake pedal to prevent the unintended acceleration. Neither a dealer nor an independent mechanic was contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 11,000.

NHTSA ODI #11733425

Mileage unknown · Feb 7, 2026
Service BrakesSuspension

I bought my Niro hybrid EX Touring new from the dealership in 2023. The first issue arose when the car shut off completely while driving and was towed to the dealership. Later, I started hearing a squeaking/rubber rubbing sound. The car would make squeaking and creaking noises when turning or going over minor bumps. The "rubber …

Read full complaint

I bought my Niro hybrid EX Touring new from the dealership in 2023. The first issue arose when the car shut off completely while driving and was towed to the dealership. Later, I started hearing a squeaking/rubber rubbing sound. The car would make squeaking and creaking noises when turning or going over minor bumps. The "rubber rubbing sound" happened when I was at a full stop, right after removing my foot from the brake, as the car began to move forward. These issues were both reported to the dealership, and they did an inspection. The dealership service center has been able to hear the sounds. Since then, the calliper boots have been replaced multiple times and the full calliper kit once. The strut bearing has also been replaced multiple times. Consistent issues with the car's braking system is a significant safety issue. I have no idea what damage the rest of my car could have sustained, and I have not been able to get an answer for why this is happening. I have also been in contact with the manufacturer.

NHTSA ODI #11716423

Mileage unknown · Feb 3, 2026
Air BagsUnknown Or Other

I am filing a complaint regarding my 2023 Kia Niro and Safety Recall SC332. The recall involves a damaged floor wiring assembly that may prevent proper airbag and seat belt deployment, creating a serious safety risk. I scheduled and brought my vehicle to Cowboy Kia, Conroe on Feb 2,2026 specifically to have this recall repaired…

Read full complaint

I am filing a complaint regarding my 2023 Kia Niro and Safety Recall SC332. The recall involves a damaged floor wiring assembly that may prevent proper airbag and seat belt deployment, creating a serious safety risk. I scheduled and brought my vehicle to Cowboy Kia, Conroe on Feb 2,2026 specifically to have this recall repaired, but the dealership did not complete the recall service and returned the vehicle without fixing the issue or providing a clear explanation. This is a manufacturer-issued safety recall and should be addressed promptly at no cost. I am requesting immediate repair and an explanation for the failure to perform the recall work.

NHTSA ODI #11715328

Official recalls

2

25V024000 · Electrical System:wiring; Seats

Jan 17, 2025

Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2023-2025 Niro EV, Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV), and Hybrid vehicles. The floor wiring assembly beneath the front passenger seat may become damaged, which can prevent the front air bags and seat belts from deploying properly or cause an unintended side curtain air bag deployment.

Consequence & remedy

Consequence: Air bags and seat belts that deploy improperly or an air bag deploying unintentionally can increase the risk of injury in a crash.

Remedy: Dealers will inspect, replace and reroute the floor wiring assembly, as necessary, free of charge. In addition, dealers will install wiring covers. Owner notification letters were mailed February 27, 2025. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC332.

Additional source detail variants (2)

Seats

Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2023-2025 Niro EV, Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV), and Hybrid vehicles. The floor wiring assembly beneath the front passenger seat may become damaged, which can prevent the front air bags and seat belts from deploying properly or cause an unintended side curtain air bag deployment.

Consequence: Air bags and seat belts that deploy improperly or an air bag deploying unintentionally can increase the risk of injury in a crash.

Remedy: Dealers will inspect, replace and reroute the floor wiring assembly, as necessary, free of charge. In addition, dealers will install wiring covers. Owner notification letters were mailed February 27, 2025. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC332.

Electrical System:wiring

Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2023-2025 Niro EV, Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV), and Hybrid vehicles. The floor wiring assembly beneath the front passenger seat may become damaged, which can prevent the front air bags and seat belts from deploying properly or cause an unintended side curtain air bag deployment.

Consequence: Air bags and seat belts that deploy improperly or an air bag deploying unintentionally can increase the risk of injury in a crash.

Remedy: Dealers will inspect, replace and reroute the floor wiring assembly, as necessary, free of charge. In addition, dealers will install wiring covers. Owner notification letters were mailed February 27, 2025. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC332.

23V298000 · Electrical System: Instrument Cluster/panel

Apr 26, 2023

Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2023 Sportage, Sportage Hybrid, Sportage Plug-in Hybrid, Niro Hybrid, Niro Plug-in Hybrid, Soul, and Telluride vehicles equipped with a digital instrument cluster containing a 4.2" LCD screen.  The instrument cluster may fail to display any information when the vehicle is started.  As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard numbers 101, "Control and Displays," and 138, "Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems."

Consequence & remedy

Consequence: A blank instrument cluster display will not show critical information, such as tire pressure, warning messages, and warning lights, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy: Dealers will update the instrument cluster software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed May 26, 2023. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC270.

Model-level recall history does not show whether a particular VIN is affected or has received a repair. Check a VIN with NHTSA ↗

NHTSA investigations

0

No exact-year investigations in this snapshot.