2019 Kia Sportage Safety Report
2019 Kia Sportage: Strong Crash Ratings, but Significant Engine and Fire Risk Recalls Raise Operational Safety Concerns
AI Safety Analysis for the 2019 Kia Sportage
Reliability Score
The 2019 Kia Sportage 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 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Excessive Engine Oil Consumption/Failure Numerous complaints detail engines consuming oil at an alarming rate (e.g., 1 quart every 361 miles, 6 quarts every 1,900 miles), often without warning lights, leading to stalling, limp mode, and complete engine failure. This is a known issue with Kia's GDI engines. |
High | Common | 40000-150000 miles |
| Hecu Fire Risk Recall 21V137000 addresses a potential short-circuit in the Hydraulic Electronic Control Unit (HECU) that can cause an engine compartment fire, even when parked. Three fires have been reported in the complaint data. |
High | Occasional | N/A miles |
| Trailer Hitch Fire Risk Recall 22V703000 warns that a tow hitch harness can cause a fire while parked or driving. This contributes to the overall fire risk profile of the vehicle. |
High | Occasional | N/A miles |
| Sudden Loss Of Power/Stalling Drivers report the vehicle losing motive power, stalling, or entering limp mode unexpectedly, often accompanied by check engine lights. This is frequently linked to the engine oil consumption issues. |
High | Occasional | 40000-100000 miles |
| Paint Peeling/Bubbling Several owners have reported premature paint peeling and bubbling on various body parts like the roof spoiler, side mirrors, and door handles, often outside of warranty. |
Medium | Occasional | 40000-80000 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:
The most frequent complaints (17 out of 65) are related to the engine, primarily involving excessive oil consumption, stalling, sudden loss of power, and complete engine failure. This is a critical and recurring issue.
8 complaints fall under 'UNKNOWN OR OTHER', indicating a variety of less categorized issues or general vehicle malfunctions.
3 complaints mention issues with exterior lighting, specifically high beam headlights failing to illuminate as designed.
3 complaints are categorized under this combination, suggesting complex inter-related issues affecting multiple systems.
At least one complaint mentions the brake pedal jamming and sticking, which aligns with the HECU recall's potential impact on the braking system.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2019 Kia Sportage
Is the 2019 Kia Sportage safe?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2019 Kia Sportage received excellent crash test ratings, including a 5-star overall rating. However, it has 65 complaints, 3 fires, and 4 injuries reported. Two significant recalls address fire risks from the trailer hitch and the Hydraulic Electronic Control Unit (HECU). Many complaints detail severe engine issues like excessive oil consumption and sudden failure, which can compromise operational safety. While it performs well in a crash, its reliability and fire safety are notable concerns.
What are common problems with the 2019 Kia Sportage?
The most reported issues for the 2019 Kia Sportage are related to the ENGINE (17 complaints), primarily excessive oil consumption, stalling, and sudden engine failure. Other concerns include fire risks associated with the HECU and trailer hitch (subject to recalls), and less frequent reports of paint peeling and brake system malfunctions.
Are there any recalls for the 2019 Kia Sportage?
Yes, the 2019 Kia Sportage has two significant recalls. NHTSA Campaign Number 22V703000 addresses a fire risk from the trailer hitch harness, and NHTSA Campaign Number 21V137000 concerns a potential short-circuit in the Hydraulic Electronic Control Unit (HECU) that can cause an engine compartment fire.
Does the 2019 Kia Sportage have engine problems?
Yes, the 2019 Kia Sportage has a significant number of engine-related complaints (17 out of 65 total). These frequently describe excessive oil consumption, leading to low oil levels without warning, stalling, loss of power, and in some cases, complete engine failure at various mileages, including 150,000 miles.
What are the fire risks for the 2019 Kia Sportage?
The 2019 Kia Sportage has two recalls addressing fire risks. Recall 21V137000 warns of a potential short-circuit in the Hydraulic Electronic Control Unit (HECU) that can cause an engine compartment fire. Recall 22V703000 addresses a fire risk associated with the tow hitch harness. NHTSA complaint data also includes 3 reported fires for this model year.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: Given the excellent crash test ratings but significant engine reliability issues and fire-related recalls, prospective buyers should prioritize verifying all recall repairs have been completed and thoroughly inspect the engine for signs of excessive oil consumption or previous repairs.
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.