2020 Kia Stinger

The 2020 Kia Stinger is a sporty and stylish fastback sedan that offers a compelling blend of performance, comfort, and value. It comes with two engine options: a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 producing 255 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.3-liter twin-turbocharged V6 generating 365 horsepower and 376 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. People generally like the Stinger for its aggressive styling, powerful V6 engine, comfortable ride, and generous features for the price. Some common complaints include the relatively high fuel consumption and the lack of rear headroom compared to more traditional sedans.

Engine

2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4

• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, whistling or whining sound from the engine bay, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacement of the turbocharger.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $2500+
  • Recalls: None Found

3.3L Twin-Turbocharged V6

• Oil Leaks from Valve Cover Gaskets
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil drips under the car, burning oil smell, visible oil residue on the engine around the valve covers.
  • Solution: Replacement of the valve cover gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Engine Knocking/Ticking Noise
  • Description/Symptoms: Noticeable knocking or ticking sound, especially when the engine is cold. May indicate early signs of rod knock or other internal engine issues.
  • Solution: Diagnosis is needed to determine if it’s minor or major damage. In the event of major damage, engine replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

8-Speed Automatic (Both Engine Options)

• Harsh Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Abrupt or jerky shifts, especially between lower gears. Hesitation or delay when accelerating.
  • Solution: Transmission software update. If the problem persists, valve body replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Transmission Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: The engine revs up but the car does not accelerate properly, especially when trying to merge or pass another vehicle
  • Solution: Transmission replacement
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $4000 - $7000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Noises from Suspension Components
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises coming from the suspension, especially when going over bumps. May indicate worn sway bar links, control arm bushings, or shocks.
  • Solution: Replacement of worn suspension components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ per component
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system freezes, becomes unresponsive, or restarts randomly.
  • Solution: Software update, or replacement of the infotainment unit if the issue persists.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 - $1500+ (depending on whether it’s a software fix covered under warranty or unit replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The battery drains quickly, especially if the car is left sitting for a few days. May be caused by a parasitic draw from an electronic component.
  • Solution: Diagnosis and repair of the parasitic draw.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Tail Light Condensation
  • Description/Symptoms: Moisture buildup inside the tail light housing.
  • Solution: Replacement of the tail light housing or resealing if possible.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per tail light.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Rattling/Wind Noise
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise from the sunroof area, especially when driving over rough roads. Excessive wind noise coming from the sunroof seal.
  • Solution: Adjustment or replacement of sunroof components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2020 Kia Stinger can have some common issues, with the severity and cost varying depending on the specific problem. Engine-related issues (especially with the V6) can be the most expensive to address. Electrical problems such as infotainment glitches and battery drain can also be bothersome. Suspension noises and some transmission issues are relatively common, but the cost to fix them varies. While the Stinger offers a lot of value, potential buyers should be aware of these potential issues and inspect the vehicle thoroughly before purchasing, especially paying attention to any unusual engine noises.