2025 Kia Picanto: known problems and what to check

Known faults on the 2025 Kia Picanto

Reported by owners, mechanics and buying guides for this model and age. Check which engine the car has, as some apply to one engine only.

• Gearbox and clutch faults

  All engines

  The only area of concern in What Car?'s survey: 6% of cars up to five years old had a gearbox or clutch fault.

  At the viewing: Change through every gear and check the clutch bites cleanly without slipping.

  Source: What Car?: used Kia Picanto (2017 on) reliability

• Air con niggles and door rattles

  All engines

  Some owners report minor air con problems, and early cars can rattle from the doors.

  At the viewing: Check the air con blows cold and listen for rattles.

  Source: What Car?: used Kia Picanto (2017 on) reliability

• Warning chime recall

  Some cars

  On some cars the warning chime didn't sound when the rear fog light was left on and the driver's door was opened.

  At the viewing: Ask a Kia dealer whether the recall was done.

  Source: What Car?: used Kia Picanto (2017 on) reliability

What to check on a 2025 car

• Warranty left

  Ask for the date it was first registered and check how much of the maker’s warranty is left, and that it transfers to you. Electric and hybrid batteries usually have a longer, separate warranty.

• Servicing

  Servicing on time with the maker’s schedule keeps the warranty valid. Ask for the service book or the dealer’s digital record.

• Finance

  Nearly new cars are often still on finance. A history check shows outstanding finance, and whether it has been written off or stolen.

• Recalls

  Ask whether any recall work has been done, and check the reg on GOV.UK’s free recall checker.

• Logbook (V5C)

  The name and address should match the seller, and the VIN on the V5C should match the car.

Check for recalls on GOV.UK