Recalls: Kia RP Rondo
Overview
Manufacturers, or importers, issue recalls for defects or faults which have the potential to cause injury. Generally, manufacturers will inform the original buyers if their vehicle is subject to a recall and of the steps required to remedy the defect or fault. Please note that the recalls below (if any) are for Australian-delivered vehicles only. Furthermore, the number of recalls should not be taken as an indication of a model’s reliability or its safety more generally.
Recalls: Kia RP Rondo
2012-18 Kia RP Rondo: HECU could remain live and short circuit
In October 2024, recall campaign 241155 was issued for 2012-18 Kia RP Rondo vehicles. In these vehicles, the Hydraulic Electronic Control Unit (HECU) – which was responsible for the Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC) system and Traction Control (TC) system – could remain live even when the vehicle was switched off. If moisture entered the HECU, an electrical short circuit could occur. This, in turn, could result in an engine compartment fire, posing a risk of injury to vehicle occupants or bystanders, and a risk of property damage. Kia recommended that until the vehicle was repaired, it should not be parked near flammable structures or in enclosed areas such as garages. For the VINs of the recalled vehicles, please see REC-006111.
Problems and faults: Kia RP Rondo 7
Overview
This section identifies potential problems, causes and fixes based on the experiences of owners and repairers, online sources and technical service bulletins. This information is provided solely for reference purposes and AustralianCar.Reviews recommends that only properly qualified persons carry out repairs or modifications. Furthermore, the number of items below should not be taken as an indicator of a model’s reliability or the frequency with which they may occur.
To report a problem or fault to the AustralianCar.Reviews team, please use the Contact Us form. Note that AustralianCar.Reviews does not offer advice on automotive problems or disputes; such enquiries will not receive a reply. For vehicles purchased from dealers after 1 January 2011, please see our Australian Consumer Law fact sheet.
2013-18 Kia RP Rondo 7 with 2.0-litre Nu GDI engine: oil consumption and piston slap
For 2013-18 Kia RP Rondo 7 vehicles with 2.0-litre “Nu” GDI naturally-aspirated petrol engines, there have been reports of:
- excessive oil consumption, i.e. more than 1 litre per 1000 km; and
- loud “knocking” or “tapping” noises from the engine, especially when cold (i.e. piston slap).
These symptoms were typically caused by cylinder bore scoring, where manufacturing defects enabled the piston skirts to rub against the cylinder walls, causing damage, increased clearances and oil to bypass the piston rings and enter the combustion chamber. If the engine lost oil pressure, it could seize.
To fix, the engine needed to either be rebuilt or have the cylinder block replaced. To verify this condition, Hyundai dealers require an oil consumption test where the dealer would seal the dipstick and monitor the oil level over 1,000 kilometres. Owners of these vehicles are encouraged to regularly check their oil levels.
Johnson Winter Slattery has initiated a class action against Kia in respect of these engines. See https://www.kiaiengineclassaction.com.au/ for details.
