Used Kia Picanto Hatchback 2011-2017 reliability review
The Kia Picanto is a tempting choice for those who want a city car that's cheap to run and unlikely to go wrong
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What's the used Kia Picanto like?
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Reliability
Stuart Milne
Updated: 18 May 2017
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What should I look for in a used Kia Picanto?
If you are buying a Kia Picanto that’s being advertised with the balance of the manufacturer warranty, make sure it has been serviced in accordance with Kia’s guidelines. If any of the previous owners have failed to do so, the warranty could be invalid.
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With that taken care of, check the car for scrapes and scratches that can result from lots of city-centre driving, because even if these don’t stop you buying the car, they can be used as bargaining points. In particular, look carefully at the tyres for signs of kerb damage, which could compromise their safety.
The condition of the interior should reflect the car’s mileage, and you should try the various equipment to make sure everything works. If you identify any faults with, for example, options such as the air conditioning, Bluetooth, touchscreen infotainment system or reversing camera, you should ask to have them addressed prior to purchase.
What are the most common problems with a used Kia Picanto?
The engines in the Picanto are well proven, with no recurring reliability concerns. The fact they are chain-driven also means there are no concerns over timing belts.
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Some owners of the mechanically identical Hyundai i10 have however experienced clutch judder, so check this on a test drive, as well as making sure the bite point isn’t right at the top of the pedal’s travel and that second gear in particular engages easily.
Is a used Kia Picanto reliable?
It makes sense that a car manufacturer can only get away with offering a warranty as long as Kia’s if it has faith its cars won’t ever go wrong. The Picanto proves this point by being an extremely reliable little car, and Kia itself received a good rating in the What Car? Reliability Index.
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About the writer
Name: Stuart Milne
Title: Digital editor
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Stuart has been a motoring journalist for more than 25 years, writing and editing for a wide range of consumer titles. Today, Stuart is responsible for the smooth running of whatcar.com and all of its related social and digital channels. And he’s the man responsible for making sure you're able to find What Car?’s industry-leading content whenever you search for it.
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