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2019 Kia Sportage Report

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

Updated Jun 10, 2026·Daniel Wilson·1 Critical Recall
2019 Kia Sportage Report

Overall Score

7.4/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • The 2019 Sportage has an average reliability rating, influenced by significant recall history.
  • Eight recalls were issued, with multiple addressing fire risks from electrical issues in trailer hitches and the HECU module.
  • NHTSA safety ratings are strong, with an overall 5-star score and perfect marks in side crash.
  • Fuel economy is reasonable for its class, achieving an EPA-estimated 21 MPG combined.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2019 Kia Sportage

The 2019 Kia Sportage presents a mixed bag for used car shoppers. While it boasts excellent NHTSA safety ratings, including a 5-star overall score, and a respectable 21 MPG combined, its reliability assessment is average. This is largely due to a notable number of recalls, eight in total, with several related to potential fire risks stemming from electrical system defects in the trailer hitch and Hydraulic Electronic Control Unit (HECU) modules. Despite a lack of consumer complaints in the provided data, Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) suggest a higher incidence of other issues requiring dealer attention. Its 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and available All-Wheel Drive provides competent, if not thrilling, performance.

Critical Failure Risk

Recalls address potential electrical shorts in trailer hitch wiring due to debris and moisture. This can lead to fire risk.

Early detection can help you avoid a $100-$500 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls8
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

0

No primary complaint themes found.

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
21
MPG
City
20
MPG
Highway
23
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

8.8/ 10

Practicality

4.8/ 10

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Buyers prioritizing strong safety ratings and reasonable fuel economy.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Buyers seeking a vehicle with a proven, above-average reliability record.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2019 Kia Sportage Reliability Analysis

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

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

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Regular
Seating Capacity
5
Transmission
Automatic (S6)
Drivetrain
All-Wheel Drive
EPA Combined MPG
21

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Most Common Issues

1. Electrical Fire Risk (Trailer Hitch)

Most reported

Usage data observed

2. Electrical Fire Risk (HECU Module)

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 - Inspect Brakes

Est. shop cost: $80 - $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
8 recall campaign details & remedy notes
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2019 Kia Sportage reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2019 Kia Sportage is 8.8/10. Reliability score is 8.8/10. NHTSA recalls: 8. Owner complaints: 0.

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

Practicality score is 4.8/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 21 MPG. Seating capacity is 5. 4 passenger doors are listed.

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

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2019 Kia Sportage is 7.4/10. Overall score is 7.4/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.4/10. Practicality 4.8/10.

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

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 5,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $400 - $700. Repair prediction highlight: Trailer Hitch Wiring Harness (typical at 50,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $100 • Max: $500).

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

Base MSRP is $26,600.

What engine is in the 2019 Kia Sportage?▾

Engine specs list 4 • 2.0.

What transmission does the 2019 Kia Sportage use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 Kia Sportage, transmission is Automatic (S6). The paired drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive.

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

EPA combined estimate is 21 MPG.

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

10 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 Kia Sportage?▾

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

What drivetrain does the 2019 Kia Sportage use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 Kia Sportage, drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (S6).

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2019 Kia Sportage?▾

NHTSA ratings: Overall 5/5 • Frontal 4/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.

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

This model year has 8 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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