2019 Kia Sportage Safety Report
2019 KIA SPORTAGE SAFETY REPORT
Safety Decision Cockpit for the 2019 Kia Sportage
This page is the hub for deciding what to inspect next on the 2019 Kia Sportage. It connects recall campaigns, owner complaint patterns, service bulletins, sibling model years, component issue hubs, and the model buying guide so a shopper or owner can move from a single report into the wider safety graph.
| Signal | Value | What to inspect next |
|---|---|---|
| Recall burden | Moderate (2) | Review campaign numbers, affected components, and dealer remedies below. |
| Owner complaints | Moderate (65) | Scan complaint narratives for recurring symptoms, mileage, crashes, fires, injuries, and dates. |
| Crash and fire reports | 6 | Treat any crash, fire, injury, or fatality-linked pattern as a priority pre-purchase inspection item. |
| Primary component hub | Engine | Compare engine issues across vehicles. |
| Cleaner nearby model year | 2021 | Compare against the 2021 Kia Sportage with 36 complaints and 2 recalls. |
| Riskier nearby model year | 2017 | Check the 2017 Kia Sportage before buying across this generation. |
Kia Sportage Year-by-Year Comparison
The safest purchase decision usually comes from comparing neighboring model years, not reading a single page in isolation. The table below uses only validated Kia Sportage years already present in the cleaned NHTSA dataset, so each comparison links to a real vehicle safety report rather than a generated combination.
| Model Year | Complaints | Recalls | Use case |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 Kia Sportage | 144 | 2 | Inspect as a potentially higher-complaint year. |
| 2018 Kia Sportage | 150 | 3 | Inspect as a potentially higher-complaint year. |
| 2021 Kia Sportage | 36 | 2 | Compare as a potentially cleaner alternative. |
| 2017 Kia Sportage | 375 | 4 | Inspect as a potentially higher-complaint year. |
| 2022 Kia Sportage | 40 | 1 | Compare as a potentially cleaner alternative. |
| 2016 Kia Sportage | 129 | 2 | Inspect as a potentially higher-complaint year. |
2019 Kia Sportage Complaint Theme Map
Complaint counts become more useful when they are grouped into inspection themes. For the 2019 Kia Sportage, these are the component areas with the clearest NHTSA complaint signals. Use each link to jump from this single vehicle into broader component hubs and make-specific issue pages.
Engine
17 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Engine issues Kia onlyUnknown Or Other
8 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Unknown Or Other issues Kia onlyExterior Lighting
3 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Exterior Lighting issues Kia onlyElectrical System,Engine,Fuel/Propulsion System
3 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Electrical System,Engine,Fuel/Propulsion System issues Kia onlyEngine,Fuel/Propulsion System
2 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Engine,Fuel/Propulsion System issues Kia onlyPower Train,Engine
2 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Power Train,Engine issues Kia onlyAI Safety Analysis for the 2019 Kia Sportage
Reliability Score
The 2019 Kia Sportage receives a reliability score of 85 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates above-average reliability relative to comparable vehicles.
NHTSA Safety Ratings for the 2019 Kia Sportage
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) evaluates vehicles through controlled crash tests and assigns star ratings from 1 to 5, with 5 being the safest.
Known Issues for the 2019 Kia Sportage
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2019 Kia Sportage:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine Oil Consumption The engine oil consumption issue is severe, with some vehicles consuming up to 1.5 quarts every 200 miles. This can lead to engine damage if not addressed promptly. |
High | Common | 30k-60k miles |
| High Beam Headlights High beam headlights have failed to illuminate as designed in some cases, potentially reducing visibility at night. |
Medium | Common | 0-100k miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2019 Kia Sportage:
Engine oil consumption is a common issue, with some vehicles consuming up to 1.5 quarts every 200 miles.
High beam headlights have failed to illuminate as designed in some cases.
Recall Details for the 2019 Kia Sportage
The following 2 recalls have been issued for the 2019 Kia Sportage by NHTSA:
Summary: Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2016-2022 Sorento, 2021-2022 Sorento Hybrid (HEV), 2022-2023 Sorento Plug-In Hybrid (PHEV), and 2017-2022 Sportage vehicles equipped with a tow hitch harness installed as original equipment, or purchased as an accessory through a Kia dealership. Debris and moisture accumulation on the tow hitch harness module printed circuit board (PCB) may cause an electrical short, which can result in a fire.
Consequence: A fire while parked or driving can increase the risk of injury.
Remedy: Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures until the recall repair is complete. Dealers will inspect the vehicle, and, as necessary, replace the fuse and/or tow hitch harness module, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed August 11, 2023. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC249.
Summary: Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2017-2021 Sportage and Cadenza vehicles. The electrical circuit in the Hydraulic Electronic Control Unit (HECU) may short-circuit, which can cause a fire in the engine compartment.
Consequence: An engine compartment fire can increase the risk of injury.
Remedy: Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures as a precaution until the recall repair is complete. Kia will notify owners, and dealers will replace certain fuses in the electrical junction box. Vehicles equipped with an electronic parking brake (EPB) will also receive a HECU software update. Repairs will be performed free of charge. The recall began on April 30, 2021. Owners may...
NHTSA Complaint Summaries for the 2019 Kia Sportage
Below are complaint narratives filed by owners of the 2019 Kia Sportage with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. 1 complaint involved crashes. 2 involved fires. 2 reported injuries or fatalities.
The vehicle is experiencing excessive engine oil consumption. The engine was found by the dealership to be low by 3 quarts of oil after about 1000 miles during an oil consumption test, indicating abnormal oil loss. The suspected failure involves internal engine components, possibly piston rings, allowing oil to enter the combustion chamber and burn. This condition creates a safety risk because the...
WHEN I PUSH ON THE GAS PEDAL SOME TIMES I GET NOTHING FOR A SHORT TIME WHEN STARTING FROM A STOP
The contact owns a 2019 Kia Sportage. The contact received notifications of NHTSA Campaign Numbers: 22V703000 (Trail Hitches) and 21V137000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic); however, the recall repair requests were denied by the manufacturer. The contact stated that while attempting to start the vehicle, it failed to start as intended. No warning light was illuminated. In addition, the contact stated t...
I have a 2019 Kia Sportage with 41k miles on it and the paint is peeling. As of now, the roof spoiler is completely peeled off. The side view mirrors, and the door handles, have paint peeling and bubbling. I have reported it to Kia and they are unwilling to stand by their product and extend the warranty on the paint. Kia is fully aware of the problem but is not willing to fix it.
This complaint is in reference to my vehicle which is involved with Federal Class Action Lawsuits and the fact that my engine was defective from the day it was built. My engine was consuming oil at a rate of 1 quart every 361.1 miles driven. I was advised to not put oil in it and drive it until it blows up. This would have put myself, my family, friends, or any other passengers or bystanders at ri...
The contact owns a 2019 Kia Sportage. The contact stated that the vehicle was experiencing excessive oil consumption. The contact stated that the vehicle required 6 quarts of oil every 1,900 miles. The vehicle was recently taken to Valvoline, where an oil change was performed. The contact stated that while driving 60 MPH the following day, the vehicle started shuddering and misfiring, and the fail...
The brake peddle keeps jamming and sticking . The steering wheel is now very lose and a lot of play . There is a steering wheel with exclamation point flashing on the dash . When the card turns off it makes electrical noises . It is consuming oil . A pint a week . It’s been towed twice in three weeks
My check engine light started blinking and the car was stalling out. I have now parked the car in my driveway. I bought the car October, 2024
Severe oil consumption issue at 100k miles. Same issue seen on kia class action lawsuit for GDI engines. No leaks present, after 800 miles from oil change, no oil seen on dip stick.
Engine went out at 150,000 miles.
The contact owns a 2019 Kia Sportage. The contact stated that while the vehicle was in for maintenance, the contact was informed that there was no oil in the engine. The contact stated that the oil warning light had only illuminated once. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where the first oil consumption test was performed. The dealer added oil to the vehicle. The contact checked the oil level e...
CLEAR COAT PAINT IS PEELING. ON TOP OF HATCHBACK. I DON'T KNOW WHEN IT STARTED, I JUST NOTICED IT TODAY 9-29-25. iT IS AVAILABLE FOR INSPECTION UPON REQUEST. NO WARNING MESSAGE PRIOR TO THE PROBLEM. I WENT TO DEALER AND THEY SAID THE PAINT WARRANTY EXPIRED IN 1922 AND THERE ARE NO RECALLS AND NOT EXTENDED WARRANTIES FOR THIS AND KIA HAS NO RESPONSIBILITY THAT'S WHY THEY ONLY GIVE A 3 YEAR, 36,...
My oil consumption is approximately 1.5 quarts every 200 miles. I get my oil changed every month and every other week I need to top off. When my oil, is low there is no indication on the dash. I have to preform inspections on my car on a daily basis. Now, my car will randomly not start. I replaced the battery and changed the spark plugs.
The contact owns a 2019 Kia Sportage. The contact stated that the high beam headlights failed to illuminate as designed. The contact researched and learned of an undisclosed Technical Service Bulletin concerning the failure with the halogen bulbs on the 2020 Kia Telluride. The vehicle was taken to the dealer but was not diagnosed. The dealer confirmed that the VIN was not under recall or covered u...
The contact owns a 2019 Kia Sportage. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the check engine warning light illuminated, and the vehicle went to LIMP Mode. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, who performed an oil change and updated the Knock Sensor Detection System(KSDS). The contact stated that later, while driving, the engine oil warning light illuminated. The contact ch...
My engine has been burning through oil very fast, it is only 6 years old. I have to put oil in it approx 3 times before another oil change is due. My mechanic suggested I see if there were any recalls but there are none. I have no lights on or any other issues.
The paint started peeling on my 2019 Kia Sportage
The I started noticing my oil light was coming on after only few hundred miles. After every oil change a week or 2 later I would need oil. Took it to a several mechanics and no leaks founds they all said the GDI engines are known for consuming high amounts of oil. I called Kia and they admitted they know about the problem but will do nothing about it
The car started stalling anf an engine light came on
Oil consumption issues that kia is not taking responsibility for
Showing 20 of 65 complaints. Additional complaints are available via the NHTSA database.
NHTSA Defect Investigations for the 2019 Kia Sportage
NHTSA defect investigations are higher-signal than ordinary complaints because they indicate the agency opened a formal review of a potential safety defect. Some investigations later connect to recall campaigns; others close without a recall after review.
Component: Engine
Opened 2022-09-12 · Closed 2023-12-12
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) received a letter dated July 13, 2022, petitioning the Agency to initiate a safety defect investigation into loss of motive power allegations attributed to oil drain pan assembly failures on certain Hyundai Motor America, Inc. and Kia America, Inc. vehicles spanning Model Years (MY) 2005-2021. The Petitioners cited examples of complaints indicating that the subject vehicles were experiencing rapid loss of engine oil due to oil drain plug...
Component: Service Brakes, Hydraulic:Antilock/Traction Control/Electronic Limited Slip:Control Unit/Module
Opened 2023-11-17
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) has received eight Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) and eight Kia America, Inc. (Kia) Part 573 Recall Reports between 2016 and 2023. The combined 16 safety recalls all involve the antilock braking system (ABS) modules or Hydraulic Electronic Control Units (HECU) manufactured by the equipment supplier Mando. The Part 573 Recall Reports contain varying defect descriptions and differing remedy descriptions for the same or similar equipment supplied by Mando....
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2019 Kia Sportage
Has the 2019 KIA SPORTAGE been recalled?
Yes, the 2019 KIA SPORTAGE has 2 recalls on record with NHTSA. Each recall addresses a specific safety defect identified by the manufacturer or NHTSA.
How many complaints does the 2019 KIA SPORTAGE have?
The 2019 KIA SPORTAGE has 65 complaints filed with NHTSA. Of these, 3 involved crashes. 4 injuries and 0 deaths have been reported.
What is the safety rating for the 2019 KIA SPORTAGE?
The 2019 KIA SPORTAGE received an overall NHTSA safety rating of excellent (5/5). Frontal crash: 4/5. Side crash: 5/5. Rollover: 4/5.
What are the most common problems with the 2019 KIA SPORTAGE?
The most commonly reported problems with the 2019 KIA SPORTAGE involve engine (17 complaints), unknown or other (8 complaints), exterior lighting (3 complaints). Other affected components include electrical system,engine,fuel/propulsion system, engine,fuel/propulsion system, power train,engine.
How many crash reports does the 2019 KIA SPORTAGE have?
There are 3 crash reports associated with the 2019 KIA SPORTAGE out of 65 total complaints (4.6% of complaints involved crashes).
How many fire reports does the 2019 KIA SPORTAGE have?
There are 3 fire reports for the 2019 KIA SPORTAGE out of 65 total complaints. Fire reports are among the most serious safety concerns tracked by NHTSA.
Are there any deaths reported for the 2019 KIA SPORTAGE?
No deaths have been reported in NHTSA complaints for the 2019 KIA SPORTAGE.
How many injuries are reported for the 2019 KIA SPORTAGE?
4 injuries have been reported in NHTSA complaints for the 2019 KIA SPORTAGE. These are self-reported by vehicle owners as part of their safety complaints.
Should I buy a 2019 KIA SPORTAGE?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2019 KIA SPORTAGE is acceptable with caveats. It has 65 complaints, 2 recalls, and a excellent (5/5) safety rating. Always have a pre-purchase inspection done by a qualified mechanic.
What components fail most on the 2019 KIA SPORTAGE?
The components with the most failures on the 2019 KIA SPORTAGE are: 1. ENGINE (17 complaints), 2. UNKNOWN OR OTHER (8 complaints), 3. EXTERIOR LIGHTING (3 complaints), 4. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM (3 complaints), 5. ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM (2 complaints). ENGINE is the single most-reported problem area with 17 complaints.
What should I know before buying a 2019 KIA SPORTAGE?
Be cautious of engine oil consumption and exterior lighting issues, especially high beam headlights, which can affect visibility. The 2019 KIA SPORTAGE has 65 NHTSA complaints and 2 recalls on record. NHTSA rates it excellent (5/5).
How reliable is the 2019 KIA SPORTAGE?
The 2019 KIA SPORTAGE receives a reliability score of 85/100, indicating above-average reliability. This is based on 65 owner complaints, 2 recalls, and 6 crash/fire reports in the NHTSA database. Key known issues include Engine Oil Consumption and High Beam Headlights.
What are the known issues with the 2019 KIA SPORTAGE?
Known issues with the 2019 KIA SPORTAGE include: Engine Oil Consumption, High Beam Headlights. These are based on patterns found across 65 NHTSA complaints. 2 of these patterns resulted in formal recalls.
What is the most common issue with the 2019 KIA SPORTAGE?
The most common issue is engine oil consumption, with some vehicles consuming up to 1.5 quarts every 200 miles.
Are there any recalls for the 2019 KIA SPORTAGE?
Yes, there are recalls for trailer hitches and service brakes, hydraulic ABS/ESC control units.
Can the high beam headlights of the 2019 KIA SPORTAGE fail?
Yes, some high beam headlights have failed to illuminate as designed, potentially reducing visibility at night.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: Be cautious of engine oil consumption and exterior lighting issues, especially high beam headlights, which can affect visibility.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2019 Kia Sportage
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2019 Kia Sportage. The data includes 65 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 2 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 3 reported crashes, 3 fire incidents, 4 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2019 Kia Sportage an overall safety rating of 5 out of 5 stars, with a frontal crash rating of 4 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.
Disclaimer: This analysis is AI-generated from NHTSA public data and does not constitute professional automotive or safety advice. Always verify recall status at NHTSA.gov and consult a qualified mechanic.
Analysis last updated: 2026-05-16