2019 Hyundai Kona Report
Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.
Overall Score
Key Takeaways
- The primary ownership risk is a critical engine defect leading to stalling and potential failure, affecting over 50% of reported complaints.
- A major recall addresses the engine's piston oil rings, but reports suggest potential persistence of issues even after remedy.
- Expect high fuel costs given the combined 27 MPG, especially for those with longer commutes.
- Excellent NHTSA safety ratings (5-star overall, frontal, and side crash) provide peace of mind.
2019 Hyundai Kona
The 2019 Hyundai Kona presents a mixed bag for used car shoppers. While it boasts excellent safety ratings, achieving a perfect 5-star overall score from NHTSA, its reliability record is a considerable concern. The dominant issue revolves around the engine, with a substantial number of complaints pointing to stalling and potential catastrophic failure, directly associated with a recall for improperly heat-treated piston oil rings. This defect can lead to significant engine damage and costly repairs. Fuel economy is respectable for its class, offering a combined 27 MPG.
Critical Failure Risk
A significant number of owners report critical engine failures, including stalling and catastrophic damage. This is directly linked to a recall concerning improperly heat-treated piston oil rings. Issues can persist even after recall service, with some owners experiencing failures at various mileage points.
Early detection can help you avoid a $3,000-$7,000 repair.
Safety & Bulletins
Owner Complaints
Performance & Efficiency
Reliability
Practicality
The score is dragged down by its weaker day-to-day practicality signals.
Who This Car Is For
Best for
Buyers prioritizing strong safety ratings over long-term mechanical dependability.
+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report
Avoid if
Anyone seeking a worry-free, low-maintenance vehicle.
+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report
2019 Hyundai Kona Reliability Analysis
Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2019 Hyundai Kona.
Vehicle Specs
- Fuel Type
- Regular
- Seating Capacity
- 5
- Transmission
- Automatic
- Drivetrain
- All-Wheel Drive
- Body Style
- Suv
- EPA Combined MPG
- 27
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Most Common Issues
1. ENGINE
Most reportedUsage: 104 reports
2. Powertrain
Usage: 15 reports
First Service Interval
- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brakes
Est. shop cost: $100 - $200
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FAQ
Is the 2019 Hyundai Kona reliable?
The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2019 Hyundai Kona is 7.5/10. Reliability score is 7.5/10. NHTSA recalls: 1. Owner complaints: 206.
How practical is the 2019 Hyundai Kona for daily use?
Practicality score is 4.9/10. The score is dragged down by its weaker day-to-day practicality signals. EPA combined economy is 27 MPG. Seating capacity is 5.
What is the overall score for the 2019 Hyundai Kona?
The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2019 Hyundai Kona is 6.7/10. Overall score is 6.7/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.3/10. Practicality 4.9/10.
What does it cost to own and maintain a 2019 Hyundai Kona?
Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brakes at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $400 - $700. Repair prediction highlight: Engine (typical at 75,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $3,000 • Max: $7,000+).
What engine is in the 2019 Hyundai Kona?
Engine specs list 4 • 1.6.
What transmission does the 2019 Hyundai Kona use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 Hyundai Kona, transmission is Automatic. The paired drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive.
What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2019 Hyundai Kona?
EPA combined estimate is 27 MPG.
What kind of powertrain does the 2019 Hyundai Kona use?
Powertrain classification is Battery Electric (BEV).
What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2019 Hyundai Kona?
14 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.
How many people fit in a 2019 Hyundai Kona?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 Hyundai Kona, seating capacity is 5.
What body style is the 2019 Hyundai Kona?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 Hyundai Kona, body style is suv.
What drivetrain does the 2019 Hyundai Kona use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 Hyundai Kona, drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic.
What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2019 Hyundai Kona?
NHTSA ratings: Overall 5/5 • Frontal 5/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.
What are the most common engine problems on the 2019 Hyundai Kona?
Top complaint category: engine (104 reports, 50.5% of complaints).
Are there open safety recalls on the 2019 Hyundai Kona?
This model year has 1 official safety campaigns listed.
Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2019 Hyundai Kona?
Alternatives listed in this guide: 2019 Mazda CX-5 and 2019 Honda CR-V.