2005 Kia RIO Engine Problems

“I have a 2005 Kia RIO (VIN provided later) purchased 2006, low miles. Summer 2011 car stalled, stopped & check engine light came on & had it towed to the nearest shop, ntb. Replaced timing belt & no damage to my motor. I found out the timing belt needed changing at 60k miles (mine was lower). The mechanic wasn't able to determine a reason for the check engine light. Another suggested a bad sensor & wiped something off under the hood. The light went off after driving less than 5 miles. Replaced the alternator april 2013 (new alternator, belt & parts still under warranty). …”

“When the car is exposed to moisture, either from underneath by driving through a small puddle or from above in a rainstorm, the engine compartment gets wet and causes the serpentine belt to slip. This results in sudden loss of power steering and alternator failure, which can lead to the car's power cutting out in the middle of the road. This is an obvious driving hazard, but I am told that this is a common issue due to the construction of the engine compartment in Kia vehicles rather than a precipitating mechanical failure causing it.”

“The contact owns a 2005 Kia RIO. While driving approximately 40 MPH, the vehicle stalled without warning. The contact had to maneuver the vehicle to the side of the road to a complete stop. The vehicle would not start. The vehicle was towed to the dealer where it was diagnosed that the timing belt fractured and needed replacement. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The contact also stated that the vehicle was inspected and tagged with license plates one hour before the incident. The approximate failure mileage was 65,125.”

“The engine stopped in traffic on hwy, wife was in danger of being hit by other vehicles,no power to get to edge of roadway on bridge, heavy construction, had to climb out passenger door, down embankment to safety. Towed vehicle home to find engine locked up. Maintenance done regular belts, tires,oil changes and battery replaced. Only fuel gauge issue is all problems, ask dealer was told to bring in for estimate 300.00 to check.after issue on highway find out timing belt and engine problems have occur on this model since 2001. Sad for veteran unable to make repairs due to disability. …”

“The contact owns a 2005 Kia RIO. The contact stated that the driver was driving 20 MPH when she attempted to slow down but the brakes failed. The vehicle coasted into an alley. While the vehicle was coasting, the contact smelled burning wires. Smoke began to rise from the hood once the vehicle was stopped. The contact attempted to exit the vehicle, but was restrained by the seat belt and suffered neck and shoulder injuries. Both the contact and the driver successfully exited the vehicle and noticed that sparks and flames were seen under the hood. …”