Experiencing Poor Performance and High Fuel Consumption in a 2021 Kia Rio: Potential Low Pressure Fuel System Sensor Issue?

Hey there, sounds like you're having a tough time with your Rio. A few years ago, I had a somewhat similar issue with my 2018 Kia Optima, which was showing similar symptoms - engine sputtering, awful fuel economy, and the good ol' check engine light. Turned out it was a problem with the cable connections, specifically in my fuel pump and the oxygen sensor. The faulty connections were tampering with the car’s fuel-to-air ratio, causing the black smoke and awful mileage. Plus, the poor connections meant inconsistent signals, hence, the unusual engine cut-outs. It wasn't a fun time for sure, but it wasn't a super critical issue either. Just some good quality work at my trusted garage to fix those connections and my ride was back to its old self, zip and all. Given the symptoms you've described, it could be that your Kia is facing a similar issue. I'd recommend getting those cable connections checked out. Not saying it's going to solve everything, but it's a start. Good luck!

Hey, thanks for sharing that! Good to know your Optima issues were sorted by fixing those cables. I'll certainly get the cable connections in my Rio looked at. On that note, hope you don't mind me asking - do you recall roughly what that set you back cost-wise? And have you faced any subsequent issues related to this since your repair?

Hey, no worries at all! As for the cable connections, if I remember correctly, the repair was around 95.00 € - not bad considering it got me out of a tight spot. As for any related issues since then, I've had none, fingers crossed! What's interesting is, after seeing the mechanic, my Kia ran significantly better. He discovered that the low pressure fuel system sensor wasn't operating correctly. It was a bit of a surprise, but after that was fixed, I've had no problem with it stalling or with the fuel consumption. From the sounds of your situation, it might be worth getting it checked too. All the best with it!

That's really reassuring to hear. I appreciate all the insights! €95 sounds reasonable, and it’s great that you hadn't had any follow-up issues. It's def worth checking the cable connections and the low pressure fuel sensor as you said. Thanks for guiding me to the possible solution! Now I have a better understanding of what I need to ask the mechanic to check. Fingers crossed it’ll sort out all my car troubles. Cheers!