There are 1 owner-reported steering complaints for the 2015 Kia Rioin NHTSA's database. These are unverified consumer reports and may not reflect confirmed defects.
When the accessory power (not ignition) is left on for more than 5 minutes and I go to start the car WITHOUT returning the key to the off position first, the power steering WILL fail and will cease to operate. I have to turn the car off completely and then restart it to get the power steering to operate again. I am used to it now but someone that is not used to it, they will be surprised if they pull out straight and go to turn with no assistance. The power steering warning light will stay illuminated during the failure but is hard to notice as it comes on momentarily (like an oil light) when the ignition is tuned on and the engine is started. The warning light is small and just blends in with the dash. My car is available for inspection at any time. Yes, others are at risk. I CAN reproduce the problem at any time. Reported to Kia dealer but they could care less. First occurred a few months after the car was bought new and happens multiple times weekly to present date. The car now has 68,000 miles on the odometer.
Complaints are unverified consumer reports submitted to NHTSA. A high complaint count may reflect vehicle popularity, not defect severity. Data sourced from NHTSA public records.
Data synced from NHTSA on Apr 26, 2026