2019 Hyundai Ioniq
Here is a comprehensive list of common issues and complaints for the 2019 Hyundai Ioniq, broken down by category and engine/transmission type.
The 2019 Hyundai Ioniq is a compact car available as a hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and all-electric vehicle. The hybrid model features a 1.6-liter GDI four-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor, producing a combined 139 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque. It uses a six-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT). The plug-in hybrid uses the same engine, but with a larger battery for increased electric range. The all-electric model features an electric motor producing 134 horsepower and 218 lb-ft of torque. The all-electric model uses a single-speed reduction gear transmission. People appreciate the Ioniq for its excellent fuel economy, affordability, and comfortable ride. However, some common complaints include lackluster acceleration (particularly in the hybrid models), a somewhat bland interior, and limited cargo space.
Electric Motor
Electric Motor (All Electric)
- Reduced Battery Range
- Description/Symptoms: Owners report a noticeable decrease in battery range, especially in colder temperatures or after several years of use. The indicated range on the dashboard may not accurately reflect the actual driving range.
- Solution: A software update to the Battery Management System (BMS) can sometimes improve range estimation accuracy. In cases of significant degradation, battery replacement may be necessary.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: Battery replacement $8,000 - $15,000+ (depending on battery size and labor)
- Recalls: None Found
- Electric Motor Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Complete failure of the electric motor. Loss of all power and inability to drive the vehicle.
- Solution: Replacement of the electric motor.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $5,000 - $8,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Single-Speed Reduction Gear Transmission
Single-Speed Reduction Gear Transmission (All Electric)
- Unusual Noises
- Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported whining or grinding noises emanating from the transmission area, particularly during acceleration or deceleration.
- Solution: Inspection of the transmission fluid and possible replacement. If the noise persists, a transmission replacement may be required.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: Fluid change: $100-200, Transmission replacement $3,000 - $5,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Hybrid Engine
1.6L GDI Four-Cylinder Engine (Hybrid/Plug-In Hybrid)
- Engine Stalling
- Description/Symptoms: Engine stalls at idle or low speeds, particularly after regenerative braking. This can be intermittent.
- Solution: Software update to the Hybrid Control Unit (HCU) or Engine Control Unit (ECU)
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
- Recalls: None Found
6-Speed Dual-Clutch Transmission (DCT)
6-Speed Dual-Clutch Transmission (Hybrid/Plug-In Hybrid)
- Jerky Shifting/Hesitation
- Description/Symptoms: Owners report harsh or jerky shifting, especially at low speeds. Hesitation is also common when accelerating from a stop.
- Solution: Software updates to the Transmission Control Module (TCM) can sometimes improve shift quality. In some cases, clutch replacement may be necessary.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: Software update: $100 - $200, Clutch replacement: $1,500 - $3,000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Transmission Failure
- Description/Symptoms: The transmission fails causing complete loss of drive.
- Solution: Replacement of the transmission.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $4,000 - $6,000+
- Recalls: None Found
HVAC System
- AC Compressor Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Air conditioning system blows warm air. Compressor fails to engage or cycles on and off rapidly.
- Solution: Replacement of the AC compressor.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical System
- Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
- Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system freezes, becomes unresponsive, or crashes frequently. This can affect navigation, audio, and climate control functions.
- Solution: Software update to the infotainment system. If the problem persists, replacement of the head unit may be required.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: Software update: $0 - $100, Head unit replacement: $500 - $1000+
- Recalls: None Found
- 12V Battery Drain
- Description/Symptoms: The 12V auxiliary battery drains prematurely, resulting in difficulty starting the vehicle or complete failure to start.
- Solution: Replacement of the 12V battery. Investigate for parasitic draws.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: Battery replacement: $150 - $300, Diagnostic for parasitic draw: $100+
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Seat Heater Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Heated seats fail to function properly. The seat heater may not turn on at all, or it may only partially heat.
- Solution: Replacement of the seat heater element or control module.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
- Recalls: None Found
- Dashboard Cracking
- Description/Symptoms: The dashboard develops cracks, particularly in areas exposed to direct sunlight.
- Solution: Replacement of the dashboard.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) Malfunction
- Description/Symptoms: The AEB system malfunctions, resulting in false activations or failures to detect obstacles.
- Solution: Recalibration of the AEB system. Replacement of the radar sensor may be required.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: Recalibration: $100 - $300, Sensor replacement: $500 - $1000+
- Recalls: None Found
Overall Summary
The 2019 Hyundai Ioniq generally proves to be a reliable vehicle, but like any car, it has its share of issues. The electric model can experience significant battery range degradation and expensive motor failures, while the hybrid suffers from transmission issues and occasional engine stalls. Electrical glitches and interior trim problems are also reported. While some issues can be resolved with software updates or minor repairs, others can lead to substantial repair bills. It is recommended to have a thorough pre-purchase inspection and to be aware of the potential costs associated with these common problems.