2019 Hyundai Kona Safety Report
2019 Hyundai Kona: Excellent Crash Ratings Overshadowed by Widespread Engine Failure and Recall Risk
AI Safety Analysis for the 2019 Hyundai Kona
Reliability Score
The 2019 Hyundai Kona receives a reliability score of 45 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates average reliability — some notable concerns exist that prospective buyers should be aware of.
Known Issues for the 2019 Hyundai Kona
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2019 Hyundai Kona:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine Failure/Stalling Numerous reports of engine knocking, stalling while driving, loss of power, and complete engine failure, often linked to low oil levels or piston ring issues. This is directly addressed by recall 21V-301. |
High | Common | 30000-110000 miles |
| Excessive Oil Consumption Owners report needing to add a quart of oil every 600-1000 miles, leading to low oil levels and contributing to engine damage or failure. |
Medium | Common | 40000-110000 miles |
| Check Engine Light With Knocking Sound Frequent illumination of the check engine light accompanied by a knocking sound from the engine, often preceding a stall or complete engine failure. |
Medium | Common | 30000-80000 miles |
| Door Latch Actuator Failure Reports of rear passenger doors not opening due to faulty door latch actuators, requiring dealer repair. |
Low | Occasional | unknown miles |
| Spontaneous Acceleration (Ev Model) One reported incident of a Kona EV spontaneously accelerating while stopped at a traffic light, leading to a crash. |
High | Rare | unknown miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2019 Hyundai Kona:
The most prevalent issue, with 86 out of 170 complaints, involving knocking, stalling, excessive oil consumption, and complete failure, often related to piston oil rings.
Issues related to acceleration, transmission hesitation, and rolling back, sometimes intertwined with engine problems.
Reports of fuel system leaks and issues affecting vehicle acceleration and stalling.
Complaints regarding airbag deployment issues during crashes, including plastic frame damage.
Reports of electrical issues, including horn failure and potential links to engine problems.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2019 Hyundai Kona
Is the 2019 Hyundai Kona safe?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2019 Hyundai Kona received excellent crash test ratings (5-star overall, frontal, and side, 4-star rollover). However, a significant number of complaints (86 out of 170 total) and a major recall (21V-301) point to widespread engine reliability issues that can lead to stalling, increasing crash and fire risks. While it performs well in crash tests, the engine problems introduce a notable safety concern.
What are common problems with the 2019 Hyundai Kona?
The most reported issues for the 2019 Hyundai Kona are overwhelmingly related to the ENGINE, accounting for over 50% of all complaints. These include engine knocking, stalling while driving, excessive oil consumption, and complete engine failure. Other less frequent problems involve the POWER TRAIN, FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM, and AIR BAGS.
Is there a recall for the 2019 Hyundai Kona engine?
Yes, there is a significant recall (NHTSA Campaign Number 21V-301) for certain 2019-2021 Kona vehicles equipped with 2.0L Nu MPI engines. This recall addresses piston oil rings that may not have been properly heat-treated, which can lead to engine damage, stalling, and an increased risk of fire due to oil leaks onto hot exhaust components.
How does the 2019 Hyundai Kona perform in crash tests?
The 2019 Hyundai Kona received high marks in NHTSA crash tests, earning a 5-star Overall Safety Rating. It achieved 5 stars for both Frontal Crash and Side Crash tests, and a 4-star rating for Rollover resistance.
What should I do if my 2019 Hyundai Kona has engine issues?
If your 2019 Hyundai Kona is experiencing engine issues such as knocking, stalling, or excessive oil consumption, especially if it's equipped with the 2.0L Nu MPI engine, you should contact a Hyundai dealership immediately. Your vehicle may be covered under recall 21V-301, which addresses these specific problems. Do not ignore check engine lights or unusual engine noises.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: Given the excellent crash test ratings but prevalent and severe engine issues, potential buyers should ensure any 2019 Kona has had recall 21V-301 addressed and consider a pre-purchase inspection focusing heavily on engine health and oil consumption.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2019 Hyundai Kona
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2019 Hyundai Kona. The data includes 170 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 1 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 11 reported crashes, 4 fire incidents, 6 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2019 Hyundai Kona an overall safety rating of 5 out of 5 stars, with a frontal crash rating of 5 stars, a side crash rating of 5 stars, and a rollover rating of 4 stars. These ratings are determined through controlled crash testing conducted by the NHTSA.
All data presented in this report is sourced from public NHTSA databases. Our AI analysis identifies patterns across complaint narratives, correlates them with recall history, and produces the safety assessment above. This analysis is updated as new complaints and recalls are filed with the NHTSA.
Consumers are encouraged to report vehicle safety problems to the NHTSA at nhtsa.gov. If your vehicle is subject to a recall, contact your dealer to schedule the free repair.