Last updated: 2026-08-24

2025 KIA Niro
RELIABILITY SCORE: 80/100 (EXCELLENT)

2025 KIA Niro Reliability Report

The 2025 KIA Niro scores 80/100 ("Excellent"), but its complaint rate of 5.1 per 10,000 vehicles sold runs above the 2025 SUV segment average of 3.5.

Recalls

1

Complaints

16

Complaint Rate

5.1per 10,000 sold

Est. Repair Cost

$471

Annual Fuel Cost

$1,150–$1,300

Detailed Score Breakdown

Complaint Severity74/100

Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume

Repair Costs80/100

Independent repair cost ratings

Recall Impact88/100

Recall count weighted by severity

Issue Diversity80/100

Breadth of reported problem categories

The Verdict

Buy

Strong reliability record — a solid choice for buyers.

Top Issues to Watch

  • SUSPENSION (2)
  • FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE (2)
  • TIRES (1)

Generation & Refresh (US)

Post-Redesign (Year 3)

2025 is year 3 of the Second generation (SG2).

  • Redesigned for the 2023 model year.
  • Well-established in its generation — most early issues should be resolved.
  • A refresh arrives in 2026.
  • 2nd generation Niro (US).

What this means for buyers

Well into the generation cycle — most design and manufacturing issues should be resolved by now.

2023: Second generation (SG2) Launch

Generation start — new platform.

2025: This Model Year

2025 is year 3 of the Second generation (SG2).

2026: Mid-Cycle Refresh

Updated features and styling tweaks.

Should You Buy the 2025 KIA Niro?

The 2025 KIA Niro earns an Excellent 80/100 reliability score. 2025 is year 3 of the Second generation (SG2).

However, its complaint rate of 5.1 per 10,000 vehicles sold runs above the SUV segment average of 3.5, driven largely by unknown or other (7) reports.

If buying used, confirm recall repairs are complete and inspect unknown or other (7) carefully on the test drive.

See also the 2024 KIA Niro for an earlier comparison.

Pros

  • +Strong reliability score
  • +Low recall count
  • +Well-established generation
  • +Only 16 complaints reported

Cons

  • Above-average complaint rate for SUV
  • UNKNOWN OR OTHER issues reported (7 complaints)

Compare 2025 KIA Niro With

Common Problem Categories

Safety

LOW RISK
  • 1 manufacturer recall issued

Other

HIGH RISK
  • UNKNOWN OR OTHER (7)
  • SUSPENSION (2)

See detailed breakdown by component ↓

Recall Overview

1

recall on record

The 2025 KIA Niro carries 1 recall — a low count. Authorized dealers repair any open recall free of charge, regardless of warranty status.

NHTSA.gov →

Complaint Breakdown

5.1

per 10,000 sold

Segment avg: 3.5

LowAvgHigh
Low

Safety Incidents

2

Crashes

0

Fires

0

Injuries

0

Deaths

NHTSA 4/5 Stars

Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.

2025 KIA Niro Recall Details

1 recall has been issued for the 2025 KIA Niro. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.

25V0240002025-01-17

SEATS, ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

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.

VIN History Report

Buying a used 2025 KIA Niro? Check its history first

Every 2025 KIA Niro has a different past. A VIN check reveals hidden accidents, title problems, odometer rollbacks, and open recalls that reliability scores can't show you.

No VIN? Just hit “Check VIN” to look one up.

  • Accidents
  • Open Recalls
  • Title History
  • Odometer Rollback

2025 KIA Niro NHTSA Safety Ratings

Overall Safety Rating

Overall safety rating: 4 out of 5
Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)

Gas Powertrain

Driver: 4/5Passenger: 4/5

Rollover risk: 11.8%

Safety Technologies

Dynamic Head Restraints (Not Available)Head Restraint (Driver, Front Passenger, 2nd row)Advanced Belt Feature (Not Available)Seat Belt Pretensioners (Driver, Front Passenger, 2nd row)Seat Belt Load Limiters (Driver, Front Passenger, 2nd row)Adjustable Upper Belt Anchorage (Driver, Front Passenger)Seat Belt Reminder System (Driver, Front Passenger, 2nd row)Frontal Air Bag (Driver, Front Passenger)Head Protection (Driver, Front Passenger, 2nd row)Torso and/or Pelvis Protection (Driver, Front Passenger)Knee (Driver)Additional Air Bags (Not Available)Meets Side Air Bag Out-of-Position Requirements (Yes)Unattended Child Reminder Direct Sensing System (No)LATCH Locations (2nd row)Safety Power Windows (Anti-Pinch) (Standard/Optional)Safety Power Windows (Anti-Pinch) locations (Driver/Front Passenger, Roof)
View full safety data on NHTSA.gov →

KIA NiroRepair Costs & Maintenance

Maintenance Rating

4Maintenance rating: 4 out of 5

Based on NHTSA complaint patterns, recall severity, and publicly available cost benchmarks.

Est. Annual Maintenance

$471

Repair Frequency

0.4

unscheduled repair visits per year

Category-level averages derived from publicly available industry reports (AAA, CarMD). Model-level estimates produced by Auto Reliability Index.

KIA Niro Resale Value

The KIA Niro is estimated to retain about 72.7% of its original value after 3 years, based on observed used-car listings.

This benchmark covers the KIA Niro model overall and is not specific to the 2025 model year.

Value Retained
72.7%

after 3 years

Depreciation
27.3%

over the same period

Listings Analyzed
59

U.S. used-car listings

Listings observed in . This is a historical market benchmark, not a current price quote.

Explore KIA Niro depreciation and resale value on CarResaleValue.com

MPG & Annual Running Costs

Plug-in Hybrid

48–53 MPG

Running cost: $1,600–$1,750/yr

Fuel + repair

49–53 city / 45–54 hwy MPG

Running cost includes EPA fuel-cost estimate and independent repair-cost data (repair cost estimated at model level). Excludes routine maintenance, depreciation, and insurance. Data as of 2025 EPA label cycle.

Plug-in Hybrid trims
TrimDriveTrans.CityHwyCombFuel Cost
Niro Plug-in Hybrid 1.6L 4-cylFront-Wheel DriveAutomatic (AM-S6)494748$1,300

Used Buying Checklist

Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing a 2025 KIA Niro.

  • Test gear shifting for delays or failure to engage

  • Inspect for unusual tire wear and verify alignment

  • Check forward collision avoidance system for proper function

  • Verify adaptive cruise control slows down for traffic

  • Ensure no fumes are entering cabin through AC vents

  • Check for software updates affecting tire pressure display

2025 KIA Niro Common Problems by Component

16 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.

7
2
2
UNKNOWN OR OTHER (7)SUSPENSION (2)FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE (2)TIRES (1)POWER TRAIN (1)VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL (1)STEERING (1)ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (1)

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

7 complaintsSafety-related

Owners of the 2025 Kia Niro frequently report issues related to software updates, gear shifting malfunctions, and air conditioning system concerns. Several complaints describe a problematic software update that complicates accessing tire pressure information, increasing driver distraction. Gear shifting issues are noted, with some vehicles unexpectedly moving forward when shifted into reverse, and others failing to engage gears, causing traffic delays. Additionally, there are reports of fumes entering the cabin through the AC vents, causing health symptoms like nausea and headaches. One complaint involves a crash when a parked vehicle rolled backwards on an incline. These issues are reported across various mileages, with some occurring shortly after purchase.

7 complaints total1 crash

SUSPENSION

2 complaints

Owners report issues with the 2025 KIA Niro's suspension system, primarily involving unusual noises and alignment problems. One owner describes a persistent loud groaning noise, linked to a rack and pinion system with shredded gears, which emerged after previous repairs and involved high RPMs at low speeds. Another owner notes premature tire wear and the need for an alignment shortly after purchasing the vehicle new, despite only driving highway miles and having no accidents. Both complaints involve interactions with dealerships, with one vehicle remaining at the dealer for over four months without resolution. These reports suggest potential suspension-related issues that could affect vehicle handling, although no crashes or loss of control are mentioned.

2 complaints total

FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE

2 complaintsSafety-related

Owners of the 2025 Kia Niro report issues with the forward collision avoidance system, specifically noting failures in collision detection and adaptive cruise control. One incident involved a crash where the collision sensor did not warn of an impending collision during a nighttime turn, and the airbags did not deploy; this occurred at approximately 3,500 miles. Another owner describes the adaptive cruise control failing to slow the vehicle when approaching slower traffic, with no warnings or automatic braking, which they believe could lead to rear-end collisions. These complaints highlight potential safety risks, particularly in situations requiring the vehicle to autonomously detect and respond to obstacles, suggesting that buyers should be cautious and consider manual intervention when using these systems.

2 complaints total1 crash
TIRES (1 complaints)

TIRES

1 complaint
2026-08-09

The vehicle began shaking violently on the Florida Turnpike, and the factory-installed tire completely separated from the factory rim at highway speeds. This was a life-threatening equipment failure on a brand-new vehicle fully covered under Kia’s 5-year/60,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty. The vehicle is at the dealership awaiting repairs. The tire size is 205/60R16

POWER TRAIN (1 complaints)

POWER TRAIN

1 complaint
2026-05-01

Transmission was replaced but then completely shut down as I was making a right turn. Multiple indicators on dash went off and safety errors kept scrolling across dash. Vehicle then wouldn’t shift at all. TCM was replaced but vehicle has high RPMs at low speeds. Has been at the dealership now for over 90 days.

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL (1 complaints)

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

1 complaint
2026-05-12

Situation: Slowing on exit lane from freeway while in I-Pedal mode. Anomaly: As i gradually lifted the accelerator pedal, at about 61 mph the car strongly accelerated. My response: I lifted my foot entirely off the accelerator pedal and scanned the dash to confirm that cruise control was not active. Acceleration continued. I tapped the accelerator pedal and the acceleration stopped. We were now at 69 mph and close to the car in front of us.

STEERING (1 complaints)

STEERING

1 complaint
2026-02-23

I visited Car Pros Kia Tacoma for a wheel alignment on my 2025 Kia Niro EV. After the service, I was told the alignment was completed correctly and I was given a printout showing all values in the green. However, the vehicle did not feel stable or safe to drive afterward. The steering felt off, and the car did not track straight. Because the vehicle felt unsafe, I took it to Firestone the next day for a second opinion. Firestone performed a full alignment check and their “before” measurements showed that the alignment was significantly out of specification, including major issues with front toe, rear toe, and thrust angle. These values were far outside normal ranges and could affect handling and safety. Firestone then corrected the alignment, and their “after” measurements showed the vehicle was properly aligned and driving normally again. Their report clearly shows the difference between the unsafe alignment I received from Kia and the corrected alignment they performed. In summary: • Kia performed an alignment that was not actually within proper specifications. • I was told the alignment was correct when it was not. • The vehicle felt unsafe to drive after Kia’s service. • Firestone’s diagnostic confirmed the alignment was significantly off. • Firestone corrected the alignment and the vehicle immediately drove normally. I am filing this complaint because the dealership returned my vehicle in a condition that affected its stability and safety, and the documentation from Firestone clearly supports this.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (1 complaints)

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

1 complaint
2025-01-08

Took car in and dealership kept it. Recall indicated that parts were available, however, dealership says that because there's additional fraying of wires, they don't have the parts. When I contacted Kia corporate, they confirmed that they have release of parts indicated as "TBD." According to NHTSA records, they should have the parts but they say they don't and can't indicate when parts will be available.

When Do 2025 KIA Niro Problems Start?

Based on owner complaint patterns, here's when common issues tend to appear.

3,000–4,000 milesForward collision avoidance failures

Best & Worst KIA Niro Years

Comprehensive reliability analysis based on NHTSA data, owner complaints, and historical performance.

Best KIA Niro Years to Buy

The best KIA Niro year is 2025 with a reliability score of 80/100, rated excellent. Other strong picks include 2024 (79/100).

Top Pick
80
Excellent

2025

(Current Model)

1Recalls
16Complaints
79
Good

2024

1Recalls
9Complaints

KIA Niro Years to Avoid

No KIA Niro years are statistical outliers in our data.

All model years score consistently well. The KIA Niro maintains one of the highest industry standards for long-term durability across its entire production span.

KIA Niro Reliability Score Trend

KIA Niro reliability has remained consistent across model years, averaging 80/100.

Scores 0–100. Higher is better. Current year highlighted.

KIA Niro reliability scores by year
YearScoreRating
202479/100Good
202580/100Excellent

KIA Niro Reliability Compared to Other Years

Reliability scores compared across model years
YearScorevs Prior YearRatingRecallsComplaints
2025(selected)80/100+1Excellent116
202479/100Good19

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the 2025 KIA Niro reliable?
The 2025 KIA Niro scores 80/100 ("Excellent"), which is strong. However, its complaint rate is above the SUV segment average (notably unknown or other). The high score reflects good build quality, but shoppers should investigate the complaint patterns before buying.
What are the most common problems with the 2025 KIA Niro?
The most commonly reported problems with the 2025 KIA Niro include: UNKNOWN OR OTHER (7 complaints), SUSPENSION (2 complaints), FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE (2 complaints), TIRES (1 complaints), POWER TRAIN (1 complaints). These issues were identified from owner complaints analyzed by Auto Reliability Index.
How many recalls does the 2025 KIA Niro have?
The 2025 KIA Niro has 1 recall on record. Recalls are safety or compliance fixes issued by the manufacturer and repaired at no cost at authorized dealerships.
Is the 2025 KIA Niro expensive to maintain?
The 2025 KIA Niro has estimated annual costs of $471/year. Its reliability score of 80/100 is strong, but its complaint rate is above the segment average (notably unknown or other). Pay extra attention to commonly reported areas during inspection and test drive.

Don’t buy a 2025 KIA Niro without checking its VIN first — hidden accidents, title issues, and open recalls could cost you thousands.

Look Up a VIN →

How We Calculate Reliability Scores

Auto Reliability Index scores are calculated on a 0–100 scale using a weighted formula that combines multiple public data sources. Each factor is weighted based on its predictive value for real-world ownership experience.

Key Ranking Factors

1

Complaint Severity

NHTSA owner complaints weighted by component category (e.g., powertrain, safety systems, electronics, cosmetic) — safety-critical issues carry more weight than cosmetic ones. Adjusted for sales volume so high-volume models aren't unfairly penalized.

2

Repair Costs

Independent reliability ratings based on repair frequency, average repair costs, and severity of typical repairs for each model.

3

Recall Impact

Number of NHTSA recalls weighted by severity. “Stop driving” and fire-risk recalls are penalized more heavily than minor software or labeling recalls.

4

Issue Diversity

Measures how many major vehicle systems (engine, transmission, electrical, braking, etc.) have recorded complaints. A vehicle with issues spread across many systems may indicate systemic quality issues.

Scores are grouped into four tiers:

  • 80–100: Excellent— Top-tier reliability, minimal issues
  • 60–79: Good— Reliable with some minor concerns
  • 40–59: Mixed— Notable issues, research before buying
  • 0–39: Risky— Significant problems, proceed with caution

Data is sourced from NHTSA recall records, owner complaint filings, and independent repair databases via vehicles.dev. Scores are recalculated as new data becomes available. While the weighting model is proprietary, all underlying data sources are public and traceable.

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