2019 Hyundai Veloster Safety Report

2019 Hyundai Veloster plagued by significant engine recall issues and door latch defect, crash test ratings unavailable.

41Complaints
2Recalls
45/100Reliability Score
2Crash Reports
3Injuries
Most reported components: Engine (12)Structure (5)Electrical System,Unknown Or Other (3)Engine And Engine Cooling (2)Engine,Fuel/Propulsion System (2)Vehicle Speed Control,Engine (2)Structure,Visibility/Wiper (2)Service Brakes (1)Latches/Locks/Linkages (1)Engine And Engine Cooling,Vehicle Speed Control (1)

AI Safety Analysis for the 2019 Hyundai Veloster

The 2019 Hyundai Veloster presents a mixed safety picture, primarily due to significant engine-related concerns despite a relatively low overall complaint count. With 41 total complaints, the most prominent issue is the ENGINE, accounting for 12 complaints (29% of total). This is directly supported by a critical recall (NHTSA Campaign Number 21V302000) concerning piston oil rings in 2.0L Nu MPI engines, which can lead to engine stall and increased fire risk. Several complaints describe engine seizure, loss of power, stalling at various speeds, and knocking noises, directly aligning with the recall's stated consequences. There are 2 reported crashes and 3 injuries, with engine failure being a contributing factor in some incidents. Beyond the engine, the STRUCTURE component has 5 complaints, and a second recall (NHTSA Campaign Number 19V097000) addresses a driver's door latch issue that could lead to door opening in a side impact, increasing injury risk. Other notable complaints include ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, UNKNOWN OR OTHER (3 complaints) and VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL (2 complaints), with some reports of unintended acceleration or the vehicle going into reverse when drive is selected. NHTSA crash test ratings are not available for the 2019 Veloster, which limits a full assessment of its crashworthiness. However, the recalls highlight specific design flaws that could compromise safety in both operational and crash scenarios. The high proportion of engine complaints, many mirroring the recall's description, suggests that even with the recall, some vehicles may still experience or have experienced severe engine issues.

Reliability Score

The 2019 Hyundai Veloster 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 Veloster

The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2019 Hyundai Veloster:

IssueSeverityFrequencyTypical Mileage
Engine Failure/Stalling
Piston oil rings may not have been properly heat-treated, leading to engine damage, stalling, and potential fire risk. Numerous complaints describe engine seizing, loss of power, and knocking.		 High Common 30000-60000 miles
Driver'S Door Latch Damage
In certain side impact crashes, the driver's door latch housing and locking cable can become damaged, allowing the door to open and increasing the risk of occupant ejection or injury.		 High Occasional N/A miles
Brake Caliper Failure
Reports of multiple brake calipers failing, leading to reduced braking effectiveness.		 Medium Rare N/A miles
Unintended Acceleration/Transmission Issues
Vehicle going into reverse when drive is selected, or intermittent unintended acceleration.		 High Rare N/A miles
Steering Wheel Lock-Up
Steering wheel locking up completely while driving, particularly during turns.		 High Rare N/A 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 Veloster:

Engine 29% of complaints

Frequent reports of engine stalling, loss of power, knocking noises, and complete engine failure, often linked to the piston oil ring recall.

Structure 12% of complaints

Issues related to door latches, particularly the driver's side, and general structural integrity concerns.

Electrical System,Unknown Or Other 7% of complaints

Various electrical issues, including dashboard lights, battery problems, and general system malfunctions.

Vehicle Speed Control 5% of complaints

Problems with cruise control, unintended acceleration, or vehicle decelerating unexpectedly.

Latches/Locks/Linkages 2% of complaints

Door latch failures, including doors not opening or closing, especially in cold weather.

Service Brakes 2% of complaints

Reports of brake component failures, such as calipers not working.

Frequently Asked Questions About the 2019 Hyundai Veloster

Is the 2019 Hyundai Veloster safe?

Based on NHTSA data, the 2019 Hyundai Veloster has significant safety concerns, primarily due to a major engine recall (21V302000) that can lead to stalling and fire risk, and a door latch recall (19V097000) that increases injury risk in crashes. While overall complaint numbers are low (41 total), the severity of the reported engine failures and the lack of NHTSA crash test ratings make a definitive 'safe' assessment difficult.

What are common problems with the 2019 Hyundai Veloster?

The most reported issues for the 2019 Hyundai Veloster revolve around the ENGINE, accounting for 29% of complaints. These include engine stalling, loss of power, knocking sounds, and complete engine failure, often linked to a known piston oil ring defect. Other common problems include STRUCTURE-related issues (12%), such as door latch malfunctions, and various ELECTRICAL SYSTEM problems (7%).

Are there any recalls for the 2019 Hyundai Veloster?

Yes, the 2019 Hyundai Veloster has two significant recalls. One (NHTSA Campaign Number 21V302000) addresses piston oil rings in 2.0L Nu MPI engines that can cause engine damage, stalling, and fire. The second (NHTSA Campaign Number 19V097000) concerns the driver's door latch, which can become damaged in side impacts, potentially allowing the door to open.

What should I look out for when buying a used 2019 Hyundai Veloster?

When considering a used 2019 Hyundai Veloster, prioritize verifying that both recalls (engine and door latch) have been addressed. Pay close attention to any signs of engine trouble, such as knocking noises, excessive oil consumption, check engine lights, or hesitation during acceleration. Also, check the functionality of all doors and latches, especially the driver's side.

How does the 2019 Hyundai Veloster perform in crash tests?

NHTSA crash test ratings for Overall, Frontal, Side, and Rollover are not available for the 2019 Hyundai Veloster, making it impossible to assess its crashworthiness based on these specific government tests.

Buyer Advice

Our recommendation: Given the critical engine recall and numerous related complaints, thoroughly verify that all recalls have been completed and consider a pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic, focusing heavily on engine health and door latch functionality, before buying a 2019 Hyundai Veloster.

NHTSA Data Summary for 2019 Hyundai Veloster

This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2019 Hyundai Veloster. The data includes 41 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 2 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 2 reported crashes, 3 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.

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.