The Kia Rio, model code UB, is a subcompact car produced from 2011 to 2017, designed to offer value, affordability, and modern styling for budget-conscious consumers and urban commuters. This...
The Kia Rio, model code UB, is a subcompact car produced from 2011 to 2017, designed to offer value, affordability, and modern styling for budget-conscious consumers and urban commuters. This third-generation model, featuring a significant redesign influenced by European aesthetics and Kia's signature 'tiger-nose' grille, aims to provide a compelling package within its segment, competing with vehicles like the Hyundai Accent and Ford Fiesta. Known for its good fuel economy, estimated at approximately 29 MPG city and 37 MPG highway with the automatic transmission, and a solid safety profile, earning it a Top Safety Pick designation in 2012, the Rio emphasizes practical utility and accessible technology.
This comprehensive workshop service repair manual provides extensive information for the Kia Rio (2012). It covers a wide range of topics essential for maintenance, diagnostics, and repair, including detailed procedures for powertrain, chassis, electrical systems, and body components. The manual includes maintenance schedules, troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble code interpretation, and component specifications. With over 2000 pages of high-quality content, it is designed to assist owners, technicians, and mechanics in effectively maintaining and repairing the vehicle, ensuring its optimal performance and longevity.
๐ท๏ธ Basic Information
Identification
Make:
Kia
Model:
Rio
Year:
2012
Codes
Platform Code:
UB
๐ Introduction
Market Position
Segment:
Subcompact Car
Target Audience:
Budget-conscious consumers, urban commuters, first-time car buyers.
Competitive Analysis
Key Rivals:
Hyundai Accent, Ford Fiesta, Chevrolet Sonic, Toyota Yaris, Honda Fit.
Key Features
Value Proposition:
Affordable pricing, good fuel economy, modern styling, decent feature set for the price point.
๐ Manual Details
Coverage Areas
Primary Coverage:
Full Service, Repair, Diagnostics, Troubleshooting, Wiring Diagrams
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical schematics and diagnostic routines.
ET+35 to +45 mm (typical, refer to manual for specific trims)
๐ก๏ธ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Overall Rating:
4 Stars (2012 Model)
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
Yes (2012 Model)
Active Features
Traction Control:
Standard
Electronic Stability Control Esc:
Standard
Anti Lock Braking System ABS:
Standard
Electronic Brake Force Distribution Ebdf:
Standard
Brake Assist Bas:
Standard
Passive Features
Airbags:
Frontal, Side-Curtain, Front Seat-Mounted Side Airbags
Seat Belts:
3-point active seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters for all seating positions.
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system
๐ก Technology Features
Infotainment
Standard Audio:
AM/FM/CD/MP3 player with 4 speakers, USB and Auxiliary inputs.
Optional Audio:
Upgraded audio system with 6 speakers, Bluetooth connectivity, steering wheel mounted audio controls.
Navigation:
Available on higher trims, typically as an option or part of an infotainment package.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Available on EX and SX trims.
Backup Camera:
Available on SX trim, often integrated with navigation system.
Connectivity
Bluetooth:
Available for hands-free calling and audio streaming on EX and SX trims.
Aux Usb:
Standard on all trims
๐ง Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first. Use synthetic oil.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 22,500 miles (36,000 km) or 24 months.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 105,000 miles (168,000 km) for iridium-tipped plugs.
Coolant Flush:
Initial replacement at 105,000 miles (168,000 km), then every 45,000 miles (72,000 km).
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 24 months or 24,000 miles (38,000 km).
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 0W-20 Full Synthetic
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.1 US quarts (3.9 Liters)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based, Hyundai/Kia Long Life Coolant (Blue)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (Refer to manual for specific recommendation)
Known Issues
Common Complaints:
Occasional reports of engine oil consumption, minor electrical gremlins, and potential HVAC blower motor issues. Clutch wear on manual transmissions can be higher under aggressive driving.
๐ Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Manufacturer Origin:
South Korea
Brand Focus:
Value, affordability, increasing quality and design.
Model Evolution
Generation:
Third Generation (2011-2017)
Design Philosophy:
Significant redesign from the previous generation, adopting Kia's new 'tiger-nose' grille and a more European styling influence under Peter Schreyer's design leadership.
Production
Manufacturing Locations:
Gwangmyeong, South Korea; Pesquerรญa, Mexico (for North American market)
Production Period:
2011-2017
๐ Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
IIHS Award:
IIHS Top Safety Pick for 2012 due to good performance in crash tests.
Ratings
Kbb Value:
Often cited for good value retention in its segment.