In June of 2004, I purchased a Kia Rio. I was so excited about it. This was my first new car, and the first major purchase I'd ever been able to make all on my own. It was such a beautiful car, I thought, and I was thrilled to have it.
Well, for a few days anyway. Within a week, the shift-lock mechanism in the car starting locking up. I could not shift the car out of Park without using a screwdriver to override the shift-lock mechanism. This mechanism is something that should only have to be used in emergencies, right? One would think so, anyway. Yet, since I've had this car, I've used it more often than not.
This car has already been in repair three times for the same problem in the two months I've had it. The dealership I got the car from, upon learning I wanted to return it, called my bank and told them I wasn't going to make my payment and they may have to repossess the car. After they were finished lying to my bank, they then called me at work and threatened me with repossession, a damaged credit report, a lawsuit, etc... The caller then proceeded to tell me that I can expect some problems with the vehicle for the first 2000 miles, because that is the "breaking in" period. The caller also told me that Michigan law requires a car to be in for repair seven times before it is considered a lemon. Unfortunately for the dealership, I knew this was not true. I have not yet decided what I will do with that serious violation of the Consumer Protection Act.
After receiving this harassing phone call, I filed a complaint with the corporate office. They seemed very understanding and sympathetic toward my frustrations with the car and with the dealer. They then referred my case to the regional office.
The woman dealing with my case at the regional office has refused to call me at work, despite my requests that she do so, thereby making it impossible for me to ever talk to her about the situation and take steps toward a quicker resolution. She had my case for approximately two weeks before calling me and telling me via my answering machine that it would be yet another four weeks before she could make a determination regarding my request for a replacement vehicle. Why it takes six weeks to make such a determination is beyond me.
Anyhow, she did call me when her six weeks was up, and left yet another message on my answering machine, asking me to call her. I did, three times. At no time was she available to take my call, and she did not return any of my calls.
In the meantime, the miles are racking up on the Rio, which I will be charged for in the event the car is returned. The only consolation in that is knowing that every mile I put on the car further decreases the value of an already fairly valueless car, and, in the end, I get to put the screws to the dealer that has put the screws to me. ( I am speaking with a lot of optimism here...I am not even sure yet if or when I get to give them back this piece of junk.)
Bottom line...Kias are JUNK, and not worth anywhere near the price you pay for them. Additionally, the dealership does, I believe, know they are selling junk when they sell these cars, which is why they are so reluctant to take them back. Kia Motors of America does not care about you, the consumer, as much as they care about selling their cars and taking your money. Their celebrated warranties are just a way they cover their butts once your Kia starts to fall apart around you. Buyer beware...Kia dealerships and Kia Motors will attempt to pulverize you into keeping the car, no matter what goes wrong with it. DON'T BUY A KIA!
Stefanie
Bellaire, Michigan
U.S.A.