CARFOCALvehicle research
Research CarsCompareRankingsArticles
  1. Home›
  2. Manufacturers›
  3. Hyundai›
  4. Veloster›
  5. 2019

2019 Hyundai Veloster Report

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

Updated May 30, 2026·Ethan Miller·1 Critical Recall
2019 Hyundai Veloster Report

Overall Score

6.9/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • The engine is the most significant concern, with a critical recall for piston oil ring defects and numerous owner complaints detailing stalling, power loss, and seizure.
  • Door latch issues, specifically the driver's side, are another area of concern, with a recall and complaints about failure, especially in cold weather.
  • While NHTSA safety ratings are not available, the vehicle has faced recalls impacting door security and engine integrity.
  • Fuel economy is a strong point, with a combined EPA rating of 28 MPG.
See the 5 checks before you buyFree • Takes 20s • Saves Thousands $
OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2019 Hyundai Veloster

The 2019 Hyundai Veloster stands out with its asymmetrical door design and sporty aspirations. It pairs a standard 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with a manual transmission and front-wheel drive, aiming for an engaging driving experience. However, used car shoppers should be aware of notable reliability concerns, particularly surrounding the engine and door latches, which have led to recalls and a significant number of owner complaints. Fuel economy is respectable, but the primary focus for potential buyers must be on the vehicle's mechanical integrity.

Critical Failure Risk

Significant complaints and a critical recall (21V301000) point to potential engine problems. Issues include stalling, loss of power, knocking, oil consumption, and even seizure, often linked to piston oil ring defects. These can manifest at low mileages or between 44,000 and 74,000 miles.

Early detection can help you avoid a $2,000-$6,000 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls2
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

61
Engine18
Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
28
MPG
City
25
MPG
Highway
33
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

8.4/ 10

Practicality

4.2/ 10

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

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Enthusiasts seeking a distinctive, sporty compact car on a budget.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Drivers who demand absolute mechanical dependability and minimal repair risk.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2019 Hyundai Veloster Reliability Analysis

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

  • Recall TimelineOfficial safety notices
  • Owner ComplaintsReal driver reports
  • Failure AnalysisKnown part defects
Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Regular
Transmission
Manual 6-spd
Drivetrain
Front-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Hatchback
EPA Combined MPG
28

CarFocal account required

See the full 2019 Hyundai Veloster buyer report before you decide

Unlock the complete checklist, maintenance outlook, and buyer verdict in one place.

Most Common Issues

1. ENGINE

Most reported

Usage: 18 reports

2. Structure & Body

Usage: 8 reports

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter, Drain Plug Gasket) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake System Inspection - Inspect Drive Belts and Hoses

Est. shop cost: $100 - $180

7,500 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
2 recall campaign details & remedy notes
Create free account

Free • Takes 20 seconds • Saves Thousands $

Already have an account? Log in

FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2019 Hyundai Veloster reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2019 Hyundai Veloster is 8.4/10. Reliability score is 8.4/10. NHTSA recalls: 2. Owner complaints: 61.

How practical is the 2019 Hyundai Veloster for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 4.2/10. The score is dragged down by its weaker day-to-day practicality signals. EPA combined economy is 28 MPG. 3 passenger doors are listed.

What is the overall score for the 2019 Hyundai Veloster?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2019 Hyundai Veloster is 6.9/10. Overall score is 6.9/10 (Good). Confidence 55%. Maintenance 8.1/10. Practicality 4.2/10.

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

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter, Drain Plug Gasket) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake System Inspection - Inspect Drive Belts and Hoses at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $300 - $500. Repair prediction highlight: Engine (typical at 60,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $2,000 • Max: $6,000+).

What engine is in the 2019 Hyundai Veloster?▾

Engine specs list 4 • 2.0.

What transmission does the 2019 Hyundai Veloster use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 Hyundai Veloster, transmission is Manual 6-spd. The paired drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2019 Hyundai Veloster?▾

EPA combined estimate is 28 MPG.

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

1 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Tire Pressure Monitoring System.

What body style is the 2019 Hyundai Veloster?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 Hyundai Veloster, body style is hatchback.

What drivetrain does the 2019 Hyundai Veloster use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 Hyundai Veloster, drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Manual 6-spd.

What are the most common engine problems on the 2019 Hyundai Veloster?▾

Top complaint category: engine (18 reports, 29.5% of complaints).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2019 Hyundai Veloster?▾

This model year has 2 official safety campaigns listed.

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2019 Hyundai Veloster?▾

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2019 Honda Civic and 2019 Volkswagen Golf.

Start Here

Maintenance guide

Costs + intervals

Recall report

Campaigns + remedy notes

Owner complaints

Issue volume + categories

In this guide

  1. 01Overview
  2. 02Who This Car Is For
  3. 03Reliability & Problems
  4. 04Vehicle Specs
  5. 05Unlock Full Report
  6. 06FAQ

We may earn a commission if you buy parts through our links. Learn more.