2019 Kia Cadenza

The 2019 Kia Cadenza is a full-size sedan known for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and upscale features. It’s powered by a 3.3-liter V6 engine producing 290 horsepower and 253 lb-ft of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. While owners generally appreciate the Cadenza’s smooth ride, quiet cabin, and value for money, some common complaints revolve around its infotainment system and occasional electrical glitches. The 2019 model did not receive any significant changes from the 2017-2018 models, but did get discontinued in 2020 in North America.

Engine

3.3L V6

• Engine Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported experiencing excessive engine oil consumption in the 3.3L V6 engine. Symptoms include needing to add oil more frequently than expected between oil changes, low oil level warnings, and potentially engine damage if not addressed.
  • Solution: Diagnosis to determine the cause, which could involve faulty piston rings or valve stem seals. Repair or replacement of the affected components is required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $5,000+ depending on the extent of the damage.
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

8-Speed Automatic

• Harsh or Delayed Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported experiencing harsh or delayed shifting with the 8-speed automatic transmission. Symptoms include jerky shifts, hesitation when accelerating, and difficulty finding the correct gear.
  • Solution: The first step would be checking the transmission fluid level and condition, as low or contaminated fluid can cause shifting problems. If the fluid is fine, the next step would be to take it to a professional to see if there are any diagnostic codes that can help pinpoint the cause of the shifting problems. Replacing the valve body can sometimes solve this issue.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500-$3,000+ depending on the extent of the damage.
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

No Issues Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system can freeze, crash, or become unresponsive. This can affect navigation, audio, and climate controls.
  • Solution: Software update. In more severe cases, the infotainment unit may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (software update) to $1,200+ (replacement unit)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Backup Camera Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: The backup camera image may be distorted, flicker, or fail to display altogether.
  • Solution: Check the camera connections and wiring. If the issue persists, the camera unit might need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) System Faults
  • Description/Symptoms: False activation of the automatic emergency braking system, even when no obstacle is present, or failure to activate when needed, is a safety concern.
  • Solution: Calibration of the AEB system sensors or replacement of faulty sensors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Seat Heater Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: The seat heaters may fail to heat properly, or only heat intermittently.
  • Solution: Replacement of the heating element or the control module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2019 Kia Cadenza presents a mix of minor and potentially significant issues. Electrical glitches with the infotainment system and backup camera appear to be common annoyances, while potential issues with the engine and transmission, though less frequent, could lead to more substantial repair costs. The automatic emergency braking system malfunctions, while uncommon, pose a safety concern and warrant attention. Overall, a thorough inspection and test drive are recommended before purchasing a used 2019 Cadenza, with particular attention paid to the infotainment system, transmission smoothness, and any signs of excessive oil consumption.