IsItAGoodCar
Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
2017 Kia Picanto (Gen 3 / JA)

The JA Picanto arrived in 2017 with a sharper cabin, 1.0 and 1.25 petrol engines and a choice of five-speed manual or four-speed automatic. UK buyers could choose GT-Line and X-Line styling packs.

What changed for 2017

  • •1.0 MPi 67bhp and 1.25 MPi 84bhp petrol engines; five-speed manual or four-speed automatic.
  • •New BA platform with a 2,400mm wheelbase and a 255-litre boot.
  • •GT-Line and X-Line trims added crossover-style body cladding and larger alloys.

Common MOT watch-outs

  • !Rear brake binding and handbrake imbalance on low-mileage city cars.
  • !Front anti-roll bar drop-link wear and knocking over speed humps.
  • !Headlamp aim and bulb failures on halogen-equipped cars.
2
Known Issues
1
Serious
1
Moderate
0
Minor

All Known Issues

1.0 T-GDI Timing Chain Stretch

SeriousEngine

On higher-mileage turbocharged models, the timing chain can stretch if oil changes have been missed, potentially leading to catastrophic engine failure if ignored.

Est. Repair Cost: £600–£1,200
Warning Signs:

Rattling noise from the engine on cold start, Engine warning light (timing codes), Rough idling

What to Inspect:
  • Listen to the engine from cold
  • Verify 10,000-mile or annual oil change history strictly
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Manual Gearbox Synchromesh Wear

ModerateGearbox & Transmission

Some owners report difficulty engaging 2nd or 3rd gear, or a "crunch" when shifting quickly, indicating premature synchromesh wear.

Est. Repair Cost: £400–£800
Warning Signs:

Resistance when shifting gears, Audible crunch during gear changes, Gears jumping out of place

What to Inspect:
  • Perform several quick shifts between 2nd and 3rd gear when the oil is cold
  • Listen for any whining in gear
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Buying Tips for 2017 Kia Picanto (Gen 3 / JA)

  • Test the four-speed automatic for slurred shifts and check its fluid history.
  • Check the clutch and gearbox for synchromesh crunch into second and third.
  • Inspect the air-conditioning condenser for stone damage and poor cooling.
2018–2019
Check a 2017 Kia Picanto (Gen 3 / JA) by Registration