Getting EV service is essentially impossible

Discussion in 'Kia Niro' started by Jim Matthews, Sep 8, 2022.

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  1. On the 17th, KIA techline approved repairs to my 2019 Niro EV (TSB #234).

    Apparently, that releases a motor bracket from parts. If the repair isn't successful, Techline then releases a reduction gear and finally a fresh motor.

    I haven't heard of any case where the first steps were sufficient.

    Each step delays another 3 months.

    I reported this for the first time October 22, 2021.

    ****

    Today, I found KIA Techline phone number effectively disconnected.
    It's entertaining - hear it yourself at 800 494-4542.

    I sent this email to KIA's administrator of communications, Brian Deveney

    Jim of Massachusetts here.

    I'm an early buyer of the KIA Niro EV.
    KNDCE3LG9K5021153 is currently stuck in KIA Techline since approval for TSB# 234, dated April 2021.

    I first reported this October 22, 2021.

    The motor is making "playing card on bicycle spokes" noises.
    It's getting louder.

    Techline approved repairs, per TSB #234 but has not sent parts.

    Every step in this has taken three months to escalate.

    I'm concerned that Techline will only send the motor mount bracket, and further delay repairs, sourcing a reduction gear and only then sending a motor.

    There are *at least* 25 of these failed motors in the USA.

    How can KIA corporate continue selling vehicles it can't service?

    Jim
     
    Robert Bratton likes this.
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  3. CR EV

    CR EV Active Member

    Sounds like a class action to me...that might get their attention...btw: I have a 2019 Launch Edition as well. So far, not dead, but this does not sound like good news.
     
    natesc0tt and Robert Bratton like this.
  4. Joe W. CSP

    Joe W. CSP New Member

    I have a 2020 Niro and gonna keep my finger crossed. So what did you get to replace it?
     
  5. 2012 RX450H with 165,000 miles on the odometer.

    It's very comfortable, a good deal larger and averages 35 mpg here at sea level. I'm waiting on the Ariya and shopping for a used Leaf plus.
     
  6. Joe W. CSP

    Joe W. CSP New Member

    Sounds like a good plan. My Kia replaced a RX300 with 220,000+ miles. It was a real work horse of a car. It only needed routine maintenance. I saw the Nissan Ariya at a demo. It was impressive. Nissan has a good reputation making reliable cars. Consumer Reports gave it one of the highest ratings for an EV. Good luck.
     
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  8. CR EV

    CR EV Active Member

    The Niro EV also has super high ratings from Consumer Reports...I'm assuming that there are supply chain issues involved with the delay in parts...not an excuse, an explanation.
     
  9. ENirogus

    ENirogus Active Member

    I see you sold your Kia, but would the lemon law in Mass have helped, or maybe you did better with selling it
     
  10. I didn't lose money, selling now at the moment of peak demand.

    I was outside the Lemon Law limits (first year of ownership, 15,000 miles) when I first noticed motor noise.
     

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