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2019 Kia Sportage · keep 3 yr

We need the engine and trim to check every issue. We will not guess.

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2019 Kia Sportage
Image: Wikimedia Commons contributor · See source file
Check firstEvidence: High confidence

Move ahead only if the checks below come back clean.

Main concern

Service Brakes recall

Check this before you buy.

Next move

Run the named checks or compare another year.

The comparison keeps the same evidence rules for every car.

Engine and drivetrain

Unresolved · not yet pinned

This model year came with 4 engine and trim setups, including 2.4L All-Wheel Drive and 2.4L Front-Wheel Drive and 2L All-Wheel Drive and 2L Front-Wheel Drive. Some problems only affect certain setups.

How to check: Enter the VIN, or check the door label or window sticker for the engine and drive type.

What may matter at this mileage

Reports of Service Brakes, Hydraulic:Antilock/Traction Control/Electronic Limited Slip:Control Unit/Module recall landed in this car’s mileage range. Put it at the top of the inspection list.

Focus the inspection on: Engine owner reports.

If you keep the car

  • 1 yrAbout 12,000 miles. This reaches the reported mileage range for Engine owner reports.
  • 3 yr (yours)About 36,000 miles. This reaches the reported mileage range for Engine owner reports.
  • 5 yrAbout 60,000 miles. This reaches the reported mileage range for Engine owner reports.
12,000 annual miles · 3-year ownership horizon · Service history is unknown unless verified by the buyer. These ranges come from owner reports. They are not failure rates or predictions.
Mileage ranges in owner reports for each listed problem.
ProblemSeverityLower mileageMiddle mileageHigher mileageRelation to your mileage
Engine owner reportsModerate severity950 mi35,500 mi90,000 miYour mileage may enter the reported range
Hyundai and Kia Abs Module Fires investigationModerate severity111,595 mi111,595 mi111,595 miThe reported range is above the mileage you may reach
Loss Of Motive Power investigationModerate severity11,500 mi22,000 mi69,500 miYour mileage may enter the reported range
Service Brakes, Hydraulic:Antilock/Traction Control/Electronic Limited Slip:Control Unit/Module recallHigh severity1,000 mi28,450 mi73,000 miYour mileage may enter the reported range
Trailer Hitches recallHigh severity74,000 mi75,000 mi150,000 miThe reported range is above the mileage you may reach

Why this answer

  1. 1Service Brakes recall was reported near the mileage this car may reach. Check the car and its repair history before you buy.
  2. 2Engine owner reports was reported near the mileage this car may reach. Check the car and its repair history before you buy.
  3. 3Loss Of Motive Power investigation was reported near the mileage this car may reach. Check the car and its repair history before you buy.

Conditions to clear first

  • Service Brakes, Hydraulic:Antilock/Traction Control/Electronic Limited Slip:Control Unit/Module recall: Check the VIN for this recall and ask for the repair receipt if it was completed.
  • Engine owner reports: Ask the inspector to test the named system and note any warning lights, noises, leaks, or stored codes.
  • Loss Of Motive Power investigation: Ask the inspector to test the named system and record the result.
  • Trailer Hitches recall: Check the VIN for this recall and ask for the repair receipt if it was completed.

Service Brakes recall

High severity
Evidence: High confidence

Official record covers model years 2017 through 2021.

Symptom
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2017-2021 Sportage and Cadenza vehicles.
Why it matters
The records describe a possible crash, fire, injury, or loss of control.

Mileage in the reports

In reports that included mileage, this problem showed up around 1,000 to 73,000 miles.

Based on 14 reports that included mileage. This is not a failure rate or a prediction.

What to inspect

  • Check the VIN for this recall and ask for the repair receipt if it was completed.

Ask the inspector to check: Independent pre-purchase inspection.

What may help

  • Confirm the VIN-specific recall status and keep the completion receipt.

Fix listed in the records: 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 contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC206.

Sources and limitsShow
Source recordEvidence: High confidence

The records describe a possible crash, fire, injury, or loss of control.

“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. An engine compartment fire can increase the risk of injury. 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 contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC206.”
NHTSArecallApr 2021Open source record

Loss Of Motive Power investigation

Moderate severity
Evidence: High confidence

Official record covers model years 2019 through 2021.

Symptom
Loss of Motive Power 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 H
Why it matters
The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.

Mileage in the reports

In reports that included mileage, this problem showed up around 11,500 to 69,500 miles.

Based on 3 reports that included mileage. This is not a failure rate or a prediction.

What to inspect

  • Ask the inspector to test the named system and record the result.

Ask the inspector to check: Independent pre-purchase inspection.

What may help

  • Use the official record to focus the inspection and service-history review.
Sources and limitsShow
Source recordEvidence: High confidence

The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.

“Loss of Motive Power 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 back outs, resulting in loss of motive power and/or catastrophic engine damage. Additional complaints were provided which alleged that the oil drain pans lack sufficient structural integrity and are susceptible to cracking. The petition itself can be reviewed at NHTSA.gov under ODI number 11481745. On September 12, 2022, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened Defect Petition (DP22-003) to evaluate the Petitioners’ request. The Petitioners have provided additional complaints within four supplemental letters dated January 31, 2023, March 21, 2023, May 23, 2023, and August 4, 2023. ODI’s evaluation included the review and analysis of the complaints and supporting information submitted by the Petitioners, as well as additional complaints submitted directly to NHTSA which referenced either the oil drain plug or a crack in the oil pan. After reviewing the available data, ODI has not identified evidence that would support opening a defect investigation into the oil drain pan assemblies of the subject vehicles. Based on a review of the available information, a loss of motive power resulting from an oil drain plug back out has not occurred between the initial sale of a vehicle and the completion of its first oil change. If during an oil change service, a technician fails to remove the existing drain plug gasket before installing a new gasket, it is likely that a proper seal between the drain plug and the oil pan will not be made. An improper seal between the drain plug and oil pan could lead to the backing out on the drain plug, resulting in the sudden loss of oil while driving. Additionally, the provided examples of oil pan cracks were localized to the immediate vicinity of the oil drain plug and/or appeared to be the result of direct-contact with a tool during servicing.  There is no information to support that a vehicle-based defect exists relating to the oil pan assembly, and instead the documented incidents are related to the failure to follow the proper maintenance procedures during oil change service. In October 2023, Hyundai published a Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) that provided detailed instructions for oil change service on its gasoline powered vehicles, specifically highlighting the need to remove and replace the existing drain plug gasket prior to reinstalling the drain plug. After a thorough review of the material submitted by the petitioner, the information already in NHTSA's possession, and the potential risks to motor vehicle safety implicated by the petitioners' allegations, NHTSA does not believe that a formal investigation is warranted. Therefore, the petition is denied. A Federal Register Notice (FRN) further detailing NHTSA’s reasons for denial of the petition will be published. The reference numbers for the complaints to NHTSA cited by the petitioner can be found in the petition submission documents in the public file for DP22-003. To review those complaints and the additional complaints ODI added to its evaluation which are cited in the Closing Resume ODI Report Identification Number document, go to NHTSA.gov.”
NHTSAinvestigationSep 2022Open source record

Engine owner reports

Moderate severity
Evidence: Medium confidence

Owner reports are bound to model year 2019.

Symptom
8 reviewed owner reports for this model year mention engine.
Why it matters
The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.

Mileage in the reports

In reports that included mileage, this problem showed up around 950 to 90,000 miles.

Based on 4 reports that included mileage. This is not a failure rate or a prediction.

What to inspect

  • Ask the inspector to test the named system and note any warning lights, noises, leaks, or stored codes.

Ask the inspector to check: Independent pre-purchase inspection.

What may help

  • Use the inspection and service records to check whether this car shows the reported problem.
Sources and limitsShow
Source recordEvidence: Medium confidence

The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.

“The engine locked up about a year ago, and since we didn’t technically have a recall we didn’t know what to do. It was able to drive again after we had a technician work on it, but now it’s not driving anymore. It shakes hard when it’s idling and driving. We have waited over 2 weeks to be diagnosed with the problem. We have had to spend $1300 on rental cars because we can’t get a loaner until diagnosed. The car is not safe to drive and puts our lives at risk to drive it. We were lucky it didn’t start shaking while we were driving on a major highway, but it did still happen while driving and was terrifying. The car is at Williams Kia now, in Elmira NY. They still haven’t diagnosed the problem. The check engine light is on.”
NHTSAcomplaintJul 2026Open source record
Source recordEvidence: Medium confidence

The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.

“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 engine can become critically low on oil, without warning, potentially leading to engine damage, loss of power, or engine failure while driving. The problem has been reproduced and documented by the dealership during oil consumption testing. However, there are inconsistencies in the dealership’s reporting, as later documentation stated that no oil consumption was found despite earlier records showing excessive oil loss. This vehicle has been inspected multiple times by an authorized dealership and is currently part of an open case with the manufacture. The vehicle was also held at the dealership for approximately three weeks without clear documentation of work performed. There were minimal warnings indicators prior to the issue. The vehicle showed rough engine performance, which was consistent with oil fouling the spark plugs. No clear warning light reliably indicated the severity of the oil loss before the condition was discovered during testing.”
NHTSAcomplaintMar 2026Open source record
Source recordEvidence: Medium confidence

The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.

“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.”
NHTSAcomplaintOct 2025Open source record
Source recordEvidence: Medium confidence

The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.

“Engine went out at 150,000 miles.”
NHTSAcomplaintOct 2025Open source record
Source recordEvidence: Medium confidence

The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.

“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 every two weeks and noticed that the engine was consuming an excessive amount of engine oil. The contact was adding several quarts of oil every two weeks. The vehicle had several oil consumption tests performed by the dealer. The contact was informed that less than a quart of oil was lost. However, while the vehicle was at the dealer, all the oil had leaked out of the vehicle. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure but did not offer any assistance. However, a claim was filed. The failure mileage was approximately 70,000.”
NHTSAcomplaintOct 2025Open source record
Source recordEvidence: Medium confidence

The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.

“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.”
NHTSAcomplaintAug 2025Open source record
Source recordEvidence: Medium confidence

The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.

“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”
NHTSAcomplaintMay 2025Open source record
Source recordEvidence: Medium confidence

The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.

“The car started stalling anf an engine light came on”
NHTSAcomplaintMar 2025Open source record

Trailer Hitches recall

High severity
Evidence: High confidence

Official record covers model years 2017 through 2022.

Symptom
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 d
Why it matters
The records describe a possible crash, fire, injury, or loss of control.

Mileage in the reports

In reports that included mileage, this problem showed up around 74,000 to 150,000 miles.

Based on 5 reports that included mileage. This is not a failure rate or a prediction.

What to inspect

  • Check the VIN for this recall and ask for the repair receipt if it was completed.

Ask the inspector to check: Independent pre-purchase inspection.

What may help

  • Confirm the VIN-specific recall status and keep the completion receipt.

Fix listed in the records: 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.

Sources and limitsShow
Source recordEvidence: High confidence

The records describe a possible crash, fire, injury, or loss of control.

“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. A fire while parked or driving can increase the risk of injury. 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.”
NHTSArecallOpen source record

Hyundai and Kia Abs Module Fires investigation

Moderate severity
Evidence: High confidence

Official record covers model years 2017 through 2021.

Symptom
Hyundai and Kia ABS Module Fires The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) has received eight Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) and eight Kia America, Inc.
Why it matters
The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.

Mileage in the reports

In reports that included mileage, this problem showed up around 111,595 to 111,595 miles.

Based on 1 report that included mileage. This is not a failure rate or a prediction.

What to inspect

  • Ask the inspector to test the named system and record the result.

Ask the inspector to check: Independent pre-purchase inspection.

What may help

  • Use the official record to focus the inspection and service-history review.
Sources and limitsShow
Source recordEvidence: High confidence

The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.

“Hyundai and Kia ABS Module Fires 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. Safety recalls included in this Audit Query (AQ) review include: Hyundai recalls 20V-520, 20V-543, 21V-161, 21V-160, 21V-303, 22V-056, 22V-810, and 23V-651. Kia recalls 16V-815, 20V-518, 20V-519, 21V-137, 21V-331, 22V-051, 22V-800, and 23V-652 The purpose of this AQ is to evaluate the timeliness and scoping of Hyundai and Kia’s defect decision making and adherence with reporting requirements; and understand the varying defect descriptions and remedies between these recalls.”
NHTSAinvestigationNov 2023Open source record

What would change this answer

verified remedy

A newly verified completed remedy with configuration-specific eligibility for Engine owner reports, Hyundai and Kia Abs Module Fires investigation, Loss Of Motive Power investigation, Service Brakes, Hydraulic:Antilock/Traction Control/Electronic Limited Slip:Control Unit/Module recall, Trailer Hitches recall could improve the recommendation.

contradictory source

A reviewed official or independent source that materially contradicts the claims for Engine owner reports, Hyundai and Kia Abs Module Fires investigation, Loss Of Motive Power investigation, Service Brakes, Hydraulic:Antilock/Traction Control/Electronic Limited Slip:Control Unit/Module recall, Trailer Hitches recall would force confidence and verdict review.

changed applicability

Reviewed evidence that includes or excludes a different year, engine, drivetrain, trim, or VIN population would change which issues apply.

lost exposure eligibility

A verified production denominator and eligible time-at-risk cohort are required before normalized comparative year guidance can strengthen.

Applied assumptions

  • · 12,000 annual miles
  • · 3-year ownership horizon
  • · Service history is unknown unless verified by the buyer.

Sharpen it further

  • Add mileage so we can compare it with mileage in owner reports.
  • Add the miles you drive each year. We currently use 12,000 miles.
  • Choose how long you may keep the car. We currently use 3 years.

Better options

Inspection brief

Mark each check as you go. Your notes stay on this device.

Saved on this device. The shared link never includes a VIN.

Use these notes with a full inspection. A serious warning sign can be enough to walk away.

Required checks

  • Check the VIN for this recall and ask for the repair receipt if it was completed.

    Service Brakes, Hydraulic:Antilock/Traction Control/Electronic Limited Slip:Control Unit/Module recall: Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2017-2021 Sportage and Cadenza vehicles.

    Passes when: No matching symptom during inspection

    Test drive: On the test drive, watch for: kia motors america (kia) is recalling certain 2017-2021 sportage and cadenza vehicles..

    Specialist: Independent pre-purchase inspection

    Records to request: VIN-specific recall status; Dealer repair order or completion receipt

    Looks okay / Concern / Walk away
  • Ask the inspector to test the named system and note any warning lights, noises, leaks, or stored codes.

    Engine owner reports: 8 reviewed owner reports for this model year mention engine.

    Passes when: No matching symptom during inspection

    Test drive: On the test drive, watch for: 8 reviewed owner reports for this model year mention engine..

    Specialist: Independent pre-purchase inspection

    Records to request: Service records showing this system was inspected or repaired

    Looks okay / Concern / Walk away
  • Ask the inspector to test the named system and record the result.

    Loss Of Motive Power investigation: Loss of Motive Power 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 H

    Passes when: No matching symptom during inspection

    Test drive: On the test drive, watch for: loss of motive power 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 h.

    Specialist: Independent pre-purchase inspection

    Records to request: Service records showing this system was inspected or repaired

    Looks okay / Concern / Walk away

Ask the seller

  • Has any named issue here ever been diagnosed or repaired on this car?
  • Can I see the maintenance and any recall-remedy records?
  • Will you allow an independent pre-purchase inspection?

Records to request

  • Service and oil-change history
  • Completed recall / campaign paperwork
  • Any dealer diagnostic reports
Save, share, or compare this car

Share this verdict

2019 Kia Sportage · keep 3 yr

Check firstEvidence: High confidence

Main risk: Service Brakes recall

Text this verdict

The link and text carry only the car and non-sensitive context, never price, risk, or VIN.

Full evidence

Every conclusion above traces to one of these source records.

Source recordEvidence: Medium confidence

The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.

“The engine locked up about a year ago, and since we didn’t technically have a recall we didn’t know what to do. It was able to drive again after we had a technician work on it, but now it’s not driving anymore. It shakes hard when it’s idling and driving. We have waited over 2 weeks to be diagnosed with the problem. We have had to spend $1300 on rental cars because we can’t get a loaner until diagnosed. The car is not safe to drive and puts our lives at risk to drive it. We were lucky it didn’t start shaking while we were driving on a major highway, but it did still happen while driving and was terrifying. The car is at Williams Kia now, in Elmira NY. They still haven’t diagnosed the problem. The check engine light is on.”
NHTSAcomplaintJul 2026Open source record
Source recordEvidence: Medium confidence

The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.

“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 engine can become critically low on oil, without warning, potentially leading to engine damage, loss of power, or engine failure while driving. The problem has been reproduced and documented by the dealership during oil consumption testing. However, there are inconsistencies in the dealership’s reporting, as later documentation stated that no oil consumption was found despite earlier records showing excessive oil loss. This vehicle has been inspected multiple times by an authorized dealership and is currently part of an open case with the manufacture. The vehicle was also held at the dealership for approximately three weeks without clear documentation of work performed. There were minimal warnings indicators prior to the issue. The vehicle showed rough engine performance, which was consistent with oil fouling the spark plugs. No clear warning light reliably indicated the severity of the oil loss before the condition was discovered during testing.”
NHTSAcomplaintMar 2026Open source record
Source recordEvidence: Medium confidence

The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.

“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.”
NHTSAcomplaintOct 2025Open source record
Source recordEvidence: Medium confidence

The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.

“Engine went out at 150,000 miles.”
NHTSAcomplaintOct 2025Open source record
Source recordEvidence: Medium confidence

The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.

“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 every two weeks and noticed that the engine was consuming an excessive amount of engine oil. The contact was adding several quarts of oil every two weeks. The vehicle had several oil consumption tests performed by the dealer. The contact was informed that less than a quart of oil was lost. However, while the vehicle was at the dealer, all the oil had leaked out of the vehicle. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure but did not offer any assistance. However, a claim was filed. The failure mileage was approximately 70,000.”
NHTSAcomplaintOct 2025Open source record
Source recordEvidence: Medium confidence

The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.

“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.”
NHTSAcomplaintAug 2025Open source record
Source recordEvidence: Medium confidence

The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.

“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”
NHTSAcomplaintMay 2025Open source record
Source recordEvidence: Medium confidence

The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.

“The car started stalling anf an engine light came on”
NHTSAcomplaintMar 2025Open source record
Source recordEvidence: High confidence

The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.

“Hyundai and Kia ABS Module Fires 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. Safety recalls included in this Audit Query (AQ) review include: Hyundai recalls 20V-520, 20V-543, 21V-161, 21V-160, 21V-303, 22V-056, 22V-810, and 23V-651. Kia recalls 16V-815, 20V-518, 20V-519, 21V-137, 21V-331, 22V-051, 22V-800, and 23V-652 The purpose of this AQ is to evaluate the timeliness and scoping of Hyundai and Kia’s defect decision making and adherence with reporting requirements; and understand the varying defect descriptions and remedies between these recalls.”
NHTSAinvestigationNov 2023Open source record
Source recordEvidence: High confidence

The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.

“Loss of Motive Power 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 back outs, resulting in loss of motive power and/or catastrophic engine damage. Additional complaints were provided which alleged that the oil drain pans lack sufficient structural integrity and are susceptible to cracking. The petition itself can be reviewed at NHTSA.gov under ODI number 11481745. On September 12, 2022, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened Defect Petition (DP22-003) to evaluate the Petitioners’ request. The Petitioners have provided additional complaints within four supplemental letters dated January 31, 2023, March 21, 2023, May 23, 2023, and August 4, 2023. ODI’s evaluation included the review and analysis of the complaints and supporting information submitted by the Petitioners, as well as additional complaints submitted directly to NHTSA which referenced either the oil drain plug or a crack in the oil pan. After reviewing the available data, ODI has not identified evidence that would support opening a defect investigation into the oil drain pan assemblies of the subject vehicles. Based on a review of the available information, a loss of motive power resulting from an oil drain plug back out has not occurred between the initial sale of a vehicle and the completion of its first oil change. If during an oil change service, a technician fails to remove the existing drain plug gasket before installing a new gasket, it is likely that a proper seal between the drain plug and the oil pan will not be made. An improper seal between the drain plug and oil pan could lead to the backing out on the drain plug, resulting in the sudden loss of oil while driving. Additionally, the provided examples of oil pan cracks were localized to the immediate vicinity of the oil drain plug and/or appeared to be the result of direct-contact with a tool during servicing.  There is no information to support that a vehicle-based defect exists relating to the oil pan assembly, and instead the documented incidents are related to the failure to follow the proper maintenance procedures during oil change service. In October 2023, Hyundai published a Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) that provided detailed instructions for oil change service on its gasoline powered vehicles, specifically highlighting the need to remove and replace the existing drain plug gasket prior to reinstalling the drain plug. After a thorough review of the material submitted by the petitioner, the information already in NHTSA's possession, and the potential risks to motor vehicle safety implicated by the petitioners' allegations, NHTSA does not believe that a formal investigation is warranted. Therefore, the petition is denied. A Federal Register Notice (FRN) further detailing NHTSA’s reasons for denial of the petition will be published. The reference numbers for the complaints to NHTSA cited by the petitioner can be found in the petition submission documents in the public file for DP22-003. To review those complaints and the additional complaints ODI added to its evaluation which are cited in the Closing Resume ODI Report Identification Number document, go to NHTSA.gov.”
NHTSAinvestigationSep 2022Open source record
Source recordEvidence: High confidence

The records describe a possible crash, fire, injury, or loss of control.

“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. An engine compartment fire can increase the risk of injury. 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 contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC206.”
NHTSArecallApr 2021Open source record
Source recordEvidence: High confidence

The records describe a possible crash, fire, injury, or loss of control.

“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. A fire while parked or driving can increase the risk of injury. 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.”
NHTSArecallOpen source record
What this check cannot seeYou still need to check the service history, title, accident history, repairs, and the car’s condition.
  • ConfigurationPartial

    This model year came with 4 engine and trim setups, including 2.4L All-Wheel Drive and 2.4L Front-Wheel Drive and 2L All-Wheel Drive and 2L Front-Wheel Drive. Some problems only affect certain setups.

    What to do: Enter the VIN, or check the door label or window sticker for the engine and drive type.

  • VIN recall & historyNot verified

    This page cannot confirm open recalls, title records, or odometer history for one VIN.

    What to do: Check the VIN with NHTSA and get a title and history report.

  • Repair costNot verified

    We do not have a sourced repair cost for the listed problems.

    What to do: Get a written repair estimate for the named issue from an independent shop before you negotiate.

  • Market priceNot verified

    TireKick does not have current market prices, so we cannot say if the asking price is fair.

    What to do: Compare the asking price against recent local listings for the same year and configuration.

  • Mileage in reportsPartial

    Only a small number of reports include mileage. Treat the range as a rough guide.

    What to do: Treat the mileage as a range in owner reports, not a prediction. Confirm the car’s condition with an inspection.

Sources and limits
Evidence: High confidence· The main sources are present and tell a similar story.

5 of 5 expected source types were available.

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2019 model-year authorityGeneration guide

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