2019 Hyundai Sonata Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated May 30, 2026Daniel Wilson
2019 Hyundai Sonata Report

Overall Score

Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • Engine oil consumption is the primary reliability concern, with potential for costly repairs.
  • Inspect the engine thoroughly for signs of oil leaks or excessive burning.
  • Exterior lighting issues, particularly headlights, are frequently reported and impact visibility.
  • The Sonata boasts excellent NHTSA safety ratings, including 5 stars for frontal and side impacts.
Overview

2019 Hyundai Sonata

The 2019 Hyundai Sonata offers a comfortable ride and a respectable fuel economy, achieving an EPA-estimated 26 MPG combined. Its safety scores are strong, with an overall 5-star rating from NHTSA, including 5 stars for frontal and side crash tests. However, a high volume of owner complaints, particularly concerning the ENGINE and EXTERIOR LIGHTING, casts a shadow over its long-term dependability. The engine's propensity for oil consumption is a significant concern that warrants careful consideration.

Critical Failure Risk

A significant number of owners report excessive oil consumption, which can lead to low oil levels and potentially catastrophic engine damage if not monitored and addressed. This issue can manifest early in the vehicle's life.

Early detection can help you avoid a $1,500-$4,000 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Reliability

Practicality

The score is dragged down by its weaker day-to-day practicality signals.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Budget-conscious buyers prioritizing comfort and safety over long-term mechanical certainty.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Buyers prioritizing bulletproof reliability and low-risk ownership.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2019 Hyundai Sonata Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2019 Hyundai Sonata.

Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Regular
Seating Capacity
5
Transmission
Automatic (S8)
Drivetrain
Front-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Sedan
EPA Combined MPG
26

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Most Common Issues

1. ENGINE

Most reported

Usage: 70 reports

2. EXTERIOR LIGHTING

Usage: 17 reports

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Inspect Brake System

Est. shop cost: $100 - $150

5,000 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist
Complete maintenance schedule (5 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
Full safety recall details
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2019 Hyundai Sonata reliable?

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2019 Hyundai Sonata is 7.3/10. Reliability score is 7.3/10. NHTSA recalls: 0. Owner complaints: 171.

How practical is the 2019 Hyundai Sonata for daily use?

Practicality score is 4.7/10. The score is dragged down by its weaker day-to-day practicality signals. EPA combined economy is 26 MPG. Seating capacity is 5.

What is the overall score for the 2019 Hyundai Sonata?

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2019 Hyundai Sonata is 7.5/10. Overall score is 7.5/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.4/10. Practicality 4.7/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2019 Hyundai Sonata?

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Inspect Brake System at 5,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $800 - $1,200. Repair prediction highlight: Engine (typical at 75,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $2,000 • Max: $5,000+).

What is the MSRP range for the 2019 Hyundai Sonata?

Base MSRP is $33,400.

What engine is in the 2019 Hyundai Sonata?

Engine specs list 4 • 2.0.

What transmission does the 2019 Hyundai Sonata use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 Hyundai Sonata, transmission is Automatic (S8). The paired drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2019 Hyundai Sonata?

EPA combined estimate is 26 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2019 Hyundai Sonata?

11 standard and 1 optional driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.

How many people fit in a 2019 Hyundai Sonata?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 Hyundai Sonata, seating capacity is 5.

What body style is the 2019 Hyundai Sonata?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 Hyundai Sonata, body style is sedan.

What drivetrain does the 2019 Hyundai Sonata use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 Hyundai Sonata, drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (S8).

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2019 Hyundai Sonata?

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 Sonata?

Top complaint category: engine (70 reports, 40.9% of complaints).