2019 Kia Sportage: problems, recalls and what it’s worth
NHTSA has 1 open defect investigation (not a recall). Known weak spot on this generation: Theta II 2.0T / 2.4L GDI engine. 2 recall campaigns to confirm with a dealer.
Cold-start knock/rattle that fades as it warms, oil consumption, a check-engine light for the knock sensor. Confirm the KSDS software recall was performed and ask whether the engine was ever replaced.
Known problems on the 2019 Kia Sportage
Theta II 2.0T / 2.4L GDI engine $4,000–$7,000 to fix
If equipped with the 2.4L or 2.0T Theta II GDI (most were), this generation has a documented rod-bearing failure — knocking, then seizure or fire. Covered by huge recalls, a class-action settlement, and a knock-sensor software update (KSDS); a lifetime warranty applies to many, but only for the original-owner chain in some cases.
Check for: Cold-start knock/rattle that fades as it warms, oil consumption, a check-engine light for the knock sensor. Confirm the KSDS software recall was performed and ask whether the engine was ever replaced.
Basis: NHTSA recalls 15V568/17V226/others; Hyundai/Kia engine class-action settlement; KSDS campaign
Known patterns for this year and model, not findings about one car. A well-kept example may already have had the fix. Costs are rough US shop prices.
2019 Kia Sportage recalls
NHTSA lists 2 recall campaigns for the 2019 Kia Sportage. Repairs are free at a dealer for the brand, and a dealer can confirm by VIN which were already done.
- Trailer HitchesPark outsideFire risk
A fire while parked or driving can increase the risk of injury.
Details 22V703000
Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2016-2022 Sorento, 2021-2022 Sorento Hybrid (HEV), 2022-2023 Sorento Plug-In Hybrid (PHEV), and 2017-2022 Sportage vehicles equipped with a tow hitch harness installed as original equipment, or purchased as an accessory through a Kia dealership. Debris and moisture accumulation on the tow hitch harness module printed circuit board (PCB) may cause an electrical short, which can result in a fire.
Fix: Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures until the recall repair is complete. Dealers will inspect the vehicle, and, as necessary, replace the fuse and/or tow hitch harness module, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed August 11, 2023. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC249.
- BrakesPark outsideFire risk
An engine compartment fire can increase the risk of injury.
Details 21V137000
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2017-2021 Sportage and Cadenza vehicles. The electrical circuit in the Hydraulic Electronic Control Unit (HECU) may short-circuit, which can cause a fire in the engine compartment.
Fix: Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures as a precaution until the recall repair is complete. Kia will notify owners, and dealers will replace certain fuses in the electrical junction box. Vehicles equipped with an electronic parking brake (EPB) will also receive a HECU software update. Repairs will be performed free of charge. The recall began on April 30, 2021. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC206.
2019 Kia Sportage safety investigations and free repairs
Under investigation (not a recall):
- Hyundai and kia abs module fires since Nov 2023
Ask the seller if the car has had this problem.
Free repairs to ask about (warranty extensions):
- Doors and locks: Kia has developed a software upgrade that can be installed on the vehicle to restrict the operation of the vehicle's ignition system should a locked vehicle be the subject of a break-in and theft attempt without the key.
A dealer for the brand can check these by VIN.
Source: NHTSA, Sep 24, 2026.
2019 Kia Sportage safety and fuel
From NHTSA’s crash tests and the EPA’s fueleconomy.gov.
What owners complain about
70 complaints filed with NHTSA for this year and model, about average.
Share of complaints that mention each area. One complaint can mention several.
Other Kia Sportage years
2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024
Printable inspection checklist · Out-the-door price calculator