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2019 Kia Cadenza Report

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

Updated Jun 10, 2026·Ryan Davis·1 Critical Recall
2019 Kia Cadenza Report

Overall Score

6.9/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • The 2019 Kia Cadenza is equipped with a 3.3L V6 engine and an 8-speed automatic transmission, delivering 23 MPG combined.
  • A critical recall (21V137000) addresses a potential fire risk from the HECU module; ensure this has been remedied.
  • No consumer complaints were logged, but the single recall's nature demands thorough electrical system scrutiny.
  • This sedan features front-wheel drive, suitable for everyday commuting.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2019 Kia Cadenza

The 2019 Kia Cadenza presents itself as a refined front-wheel-drive sedan, powered by a smooth 3.3-liter V6 engine paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. It aims for a balance of comfort and accessible luxury. While it boasts a respectable 23 MPG combined, its primary ownership concern stems from a significant recall related to the Hydraulic Electronic Control Unit (HECU) module, which poses a fire risk. Despite no reported consumer complaints in the provided data, this single recall issue heavily influences its reliability assessment.

Critical Failure Risk

A recall exists for a potential electrical short circuit within the HECU module, posing a fire risk. The remedy involves fuse replacement and potentially a software update.

Early detection can reduce the odds of major repair bills.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls1
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

0

No primary complaint themes found.

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
23
MPG
City
20
MPG
Highway
27
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

9.0/ 10

Practicality

5.3/ 10

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Buyers prioritizing a comfortable, V6-powered sedan for commuting.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Drivers who demand top-tier reliability with minimal potential for unexpected repairs.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2019 Kia Cadenza Reliability Analysis

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

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

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Regular
Seating Capacity
5
Transmission
Automatic (S8)
Drivetrain
Front-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Sedan
EPA Combined MPG
23

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Most Common Issues

1. Hydraulic Electronic Control Unit (HECU) Fire Risk

Most reported

Usage data observed

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 - Brake Inspection - Fluid Level Checks (Coolant, Brake, Power Steering)

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 (4 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
1 recall campaign details & remedy notes
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2019 Kia Cadenza reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2019 Kia Cadenza is 9.0/10. Reliability score is 9.0/10. NHTSA recalls: 1. Owner complaints: 0.

How practical is the 2019 Kia Cadenza for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 5.3/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 23 MPG. Seating capacity is 5. 4 passenger doors are listed. Boot capacity is 452 litres.

What is the overall score for the 2019 Kia Cadenza?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2019 Kia Cadenza is 6.9/10. Overall score is 6.9/10 (Good). Confidence 55%. Maintenance 8.5/10. Practicality 5.3/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2019 Kia Cadenza?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake Inspection - Fluid Level Checks (Coolant, Brake, Power Steering) at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $500 - $800. Repair prediction highlight: Hydraulic Electronic Control Unit (HECU) (typical at 30,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $0 (Recall)).

What is the MSRP range for the 2019 Kia Cadenza?▾

Base MSRP is $38,200.

What engine is in the 2019 Kia Cadenza?▾

Engine specs list 6 • 3.3.

What transmission does the 2019 Kia Cadenza use?▾

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

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2019 Kia Cadenza?▾

EPA combined estimate is 23 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2019 Kia Cadenza?▾

13 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.

How many people fit in a 2019 Kia Cadenza?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 Kia Cadenza, seating capacity is 5.

What body style is the 2019 Kia Cadenza?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 Kia Cadenza, body style is sedan.

What drivetrain does the 2019 Kia Cadenza use?▾

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

Are there open safety recalls on the 2019 Kia Cadenza?▾

This model year has 1 official safety campaigns listed.

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

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