2019 Kia Sportage
This year had at least 30% fewer complaints than this model's typical year.
This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.
COMPLAINTS PER YEAR
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 1995 | 56 |
| 1996 | 57 |
| 1997 | 181 |
| 1998 | 303 |
| 1999 | 284 |
| 2000 | 304 |
| 2001 | 228 |
| 2002 | 234 |
| 2003 | 4 |
| 2005 | 68 |
| 2006 | 111 |
| 2007 | 77 |
| 2008 | 98 |
| 2009 | 80 |
| 2010 | 20 |
| 2011 | 181 |
| 2012 | 392 |
| 2013 | 380 |
| 2014 | 122 |
| 2015 | 146 |
| 2016 | 130 |
| 2017 | 394 |
| 2018 | 158 |
| 2019 | 68 |
| 2020 | 153 |
| 2021 | 46 |
| 2022 | 42 |
| 2023 | 182 |
| 2024 | 64 |
| 2025 | 49 |
| 2026 | 19 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
50% of complaints: engine — 34 distinct reports on file.
FIREShow complaint excerpts
The contact owned a 2019 Kia Sportage. The contact stated while driving 40 MPH, the vehicle started overheating and smoke started emitting smoke from the hood. No warning lights were illuminated. No injuries were reported.
NHTSA ODI report, 20240930
The contact owns a 2019 Kia Sportage. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, she heard an unusual ticking sound coming from the engine.
NHTSA ODI report, 20230906
13% of complaints: electrical system — 9 distinct reports on file.
CRASH FIREShow complaint excerpts
The contact owned a 2019 Kia Sportage. The contact stated while driving 40 MPH, the vehicle started overheating and smoke started emitting smoke from the hood. No warning lights were illuminated. No injuries were reported.
NHTSA ODI report, 20240930
I WAS RECENTLY INVOLVED IN A COLLISION WITH A DEER. I WAS TRAVELLING AT 55MPH WHEN I HIT THE DEER SQUARE ON AND MY AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY.
NHTSA ODI report, 20190708
10% of complaints: power train — 7 distinct reports on file.
FIRE10% of complaints: fuel/propulsion system — 7 distinct reports on file.
FIRE4% of complaints: trailer hitches — 3 distinct reports on file.
SAFETY TIMELINE
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.
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.
Campaign 21V137000 — check if this car was fixed
Loss of Motive Power
Kia America, Inc.
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.
Campaign 22V703000 — check if this car was fixed
Hyundai and Kia ABS Module Fires
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
2019 Kia Sportage — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for engine issues (34 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for electrical system issues (9 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for power train issues (7 reports on file for this year).
- Verify recall 21V137000 (service brakes, hydraulic) has been completed.
- Verify recall 22V703000 (trailer hitches) has been completed.
OTHER YEARS OF THIS MODEL
BEST YEARS
WORST YEARS
FAQ
Is the 2019 Kia Sportage reliable?
Based on NHTSA complaint volume compared to this model's typical year, the 2019 Kia Sportage is rated "better than typical".
What are the most common problems with the 2019 Kia Sportage?
The most-reported component is engine, accounting for 50% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 2019 Kia Sportage have?
2 recalls on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-07-11 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.