2019 Kia Stinger

The 2019 Kia Stinger is a sporty and stylish four-door hatchback known for its performance and value. Engine options include a 2.0L turbocharged inline-4 and a 3.3L twin-turbocharged V6. The 2.0L engine produces 255 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. People generally like the Stinger’s performance, handling, and distinctive styling, but some common dislikes include a slightly cramped rear seat, and some interior materials that don’t quite match the car’s sporty aspirations.

Engine

2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4

• Engine Knocking/Ticking
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported hearing a knocking or ticking noise, especially when the engine is cold or under load. In some cases, this could be related to the engine bearings, fuel injectors, or piston slap.
  • Solution: Diagnosis by a qualified mechanic is crucial. Depending on the cause, the solution could range from fuel injector cleaning to replacing engine components such as bearings or pistons.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (fuel injector cleaning) - $5,000+ (engine rebuild/replacement).
  • Recalls: None Found

3.3L Twin-Turbocharged V6

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks have been reported, sometimes originating from the valve cover gaskets or the oil cooler lines. Symptoms include visible oil drips, a burning oil smell, and low oil levels.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty gaskets or lines.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $1,000+ depending on the location and severity of the leak
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

8-Speed Automatic (Both Engines)

• Harsh Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported experiencing harsh shifting, especially between certain gears, or hesitation when accelerating.
  • Solution: Start with a transmission fluid flush and software update. If the problem persists, valve body replacement might be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 (fluid flush) - $1,500+ (valve body replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Transmission Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission slipping, especially between gears or on initial takeoff. This may be intermittent.
  • Solution: Transmission replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $6,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Shock Absorber Noise
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported a clunking or rattling noise coming from the rear suspension, particularly when going over bumps. This can be due to worn or defective rear shock absorbers.
  • Solution: Replacement of the rear shock absorbers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Freezing, rebooting, or unresponsive touchscreen. Connectivity issues with Apple CarPlay or Android Auto.
  • Solution: Software update, replacement of head unit if problems persist.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (software update) - $1,200+ (head unit replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM) System Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: BSM system gives false positives, fails to activate, or throws error codes.
  • Solution: Recalibration of sensors, replacement of sensors if necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ (sensor replacement).
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• No Issues Found

Interior

• Sunroof Rattling/Wind Noise
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noises coming from the sunroof assembly, especially when driving at higher speeds or on uneven surfaces. Excessive wind noise around the sunroof seal.
  • Solution: Adjustment of sunroof mechanism, replacement of sunroof seal.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2019 Kia Stinger, while generally reliable, has some potential problem areas. Engine issues, such as oil leaks and knocking sounds, can be concerning and potentially costly to repair. Transmission issues like harsh shifting can also impact the driving experience. Electrical and Interior issues are more common and generally less severe. Owners should be aware of these potential problems and have the vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic if any of these symptoms arise.