Vehicles · Insights

2019 Kia Sportage

Engine trouble dominates 2019 Kia Sportage owner complaints

Of 66 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, half (50%) are about the engine, making it by far the biggest concern to watch on this model. The electrical system is a distant second at 15%, followed by the power train, fuel system, and brakes at 11% each. A handful of reports mention fires (engine, electrical, power train, and fuel system) and a few involve crashes or injuries, most notably the brakes, so test these systems carefully and review service history before buying.

Most reported areas

Engine safety 50%
The top complaint by a wide margin: 33 reports (50% of all complaints), including 3 that involved a fire. Have the engine inspected before you buy.
Electrical System safety 15%
Second most reported: 10 reports (15%), with 2 fires and 1 crash. Check that all electrical components work reliably.
Power Train safety 11%
7 reports (11%), including 1 fire. Watch for vibration or hesitation on a test drive.
Fuel/Propulsion System safety 11%
7 reports (11%), with 1 fire. Worth a close look given the fire risk noted in these complaints.
Service Brakes safety 11%
7 reports (11%), and the most safety-relevant: 2 led to crashes and 2 involved injuries. Test the brakes thoroughly.

Source: NHTSA owner complaints · 66 complaints

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General information compiled from public NHTSA complaint data, for reference only — not professional advice and not reviewed by automotive experts. Verify before acting; Team AM is not responsible for decisions made from it.