IsItAGoodCar

Kia Picanto (Gen 3 / JA) Problems by Year

The third-generation Picanto is a more mature and tech-heavy city car. While it remains a strong choice, the introduction of the AMT (Automated Manual) gearbox and turbocharged engines brought new mechanical considerations for used buyers.

Select a year below to see the specific problems affecting that model year, with estimated repair costs and severity ratings.

2
Year Periods
3
Known Issues
1
Serious Faults
1
Moderate Issues

Select a Year Period

2020–20243 issues2017–20192 issues

Browse Picanto (Gen 3 / JA) in our Directory

View MOT history, registration data, and reliability scores for the Kia Picanto (Gen 3 / JA).

View Picanto (Gen 3 / JA) Directory

Buying Tips for the Kia Picanto (Gen 3 / JA)

  • ✓On facelift models (2020+), test the AMT (Automated Manual Transmission) thoroughly; it is slower than a traditional auto and can be jerky
  • ✓Listen for "ticking" or rattling from the 1.0 T-GDI engine, which can indicate early timing chain wear
  • ✓Test the 5-speed manual gearbox for smooth shifts into 2nd and 3rd gear, as synchromesh issues have been reported
  • ✓Check for moisture in the rear light clusters, a common minor build-quality niggle
Check a Kia Picanto (Gen 3 / JA) by Registration