This 2019 Kia Niro has experienced a series of persistent issues since its purchase, highlighting the frustrations many consumers face with defective vehicles. The first indication of trouble was when the check engine light illuminated, signaling a misfire in cylinder 4.
A diagnostic scan confirmed the misfire, but a subsequent compression test revealed that all cylinders were within specification. Despite replacing the fuel injector, along with seals, washers, and clips, the issue persisted.
By early 2020, the misfire returned, and the technician discovered further issues with the injector, pin connections, and fuel quality. Although corrective actions temporarily eliminated the check engine light, intermittent misfires continued.
The vehicle’s problems escalated further until late 2020, when the steering began emitting a rubbing noise. The technician at Folsom Lake Kia confirmed that the noise was originating from the steering motor and recommended replacing the steering column.
While parts were initially unavailable, the steering column was replaced, which seemed to resolve the issue.
In 2021, additional repairs were made, including oil changes, clutch actuator fluid replacement, and an inspection for a clunking noise when switching gears. Despite adjustments to the clutch actuator fluid, the clunk persisted intermittently.
By 2023, the Niro was brought in for the same clunking and jerking symptoms when shifting into drive, which was diagnosed as a transmission clutch issue. The dual clutch was replaced, and a test drive confirmed no further issues after the repair.
However, the vehicle’s troubles were far from over. Unfortunately, the check engine light illuminated once again. Although the customer did not report any noticeable drivability issues, the technician found that the catalytic converter and the bottom oxygen sensor were failing.
The issue was resolved about a month later, when a new exhaust manifold/catalytic converter assembly was installed, and the check engine light remained off.
Over the course of several years, the vehicle was repeatedly serviced at Folsom Lake Kia, with numerous parts replaced and technical case reports submitted to Kia.
Despite these ongoing repairs, the vehicle continued to suffer from recurring issues with the engine, steering, transmission, and exhaust systems. Thanks to help from the Lemon Law Experts, Kia Motors America ultimately repurchased the vehicle after it had spent a total of 77 days in the repair shop.
Under California’s Lemon Law, a vehicle that has required repeated repairs for the same issue and continues to be defective may be eligible for a buyback.
Spending over 77 days in the repair shop for recurring issues is unacceptable, as it demonstrates the vehicle’s inability to function properly despite multiple repair attempts.
With the assistance of the Lemon Law Experts, a buyback agreement was successfully negotiated with Kia Motors America, resulting in a full refund for the defective vehicle, along with reimbursement for legal fees and expenses.
Since 2009, the Lemon Law Experts have helped thousands of clients resolve similar issues with defective vehicles.
If you’re experiencing similar problems with your vehicle, contact us today for a free consultation to explore your legal options and learn how we can help you achieve a favorable resolution.
