2002 Kia Rio. Consumer states timing belt failed the consumer stated the timing belt failed for a second time at 59,059 and destroyed the second engine. The consumer was informed the vehicle would not be covered under warranty, because the original timing belt was not replaced at the proper mileage. The consumer stated the original timing belt was replaced at 53,668 and the replacement belt failed at 59,059 before the recommended 60,000. A Kia representative informed the consumer the warranty only extended to the original engine, not the replacement engine.

- Manchester, CT, USA

- the contact owns a 2002 Kia Rio. While driving at 35 mph the vehicle stalled and the engine lost power. The steering, the brakes and the emergency brake were locked, the contact was unable to steer the vehicle or stop it which caused a crash with a van. The failure mileage was 77,000. There were no injuries. The vehicle was repaired three times due to the failure. The mechanic stated that the failure was due to the fuel injection system, and later claimed it was the timing belt. The contact experienced the failure after the vehicle was repaired. All of the repairs were at cost to the contact. The dealer stated there were no recalls for this year, make and model. Advised the contact of NHTSA recall#04V179000: Fuel system, gasoline:delivery. The current mileage was 78,000. Customer did receive a recall letter in the mail. Updated 4/9

- Austell , GA, USA

2002 Kia Rio - timing belt failure causes entire and instantaneous engine loss - car comes to halt in roadway unexpectedly. Timing belts are covered under Kia's 100,000 mile powertrain warranty, but they do not honor their warranty for this problem.

- Fishing Creek, MD, USA