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2019 Kia Venga problems

A 2019 Kia Venga is now 7 years old, so an average example has covered around 94,500 miles. The final model year of the generation · generally the most sorted build, so mileage, servicing and condition matter more than build-year faults. Check the state safety inspection and service history alongside the documented faults below, which are sorted by whether a 2019 car has usually reached the mileage where they appear.

Compiled & reviewed by the VehicleFaults Research Team

Quick answer

The 2019 Kia Venga is 7 years old, so an average example has covered roughly 94,500 miles. At that mileage 6 of the documented faults are already due, so check those first.

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Faults a 2019 example has usually reached

Documented onset mileage is at or below the ~95k miles an average 2019 car has covered.

EngineMedium

Timing chain and oil neglect on petrol units

Typically appears
80,000+ miles
What to inspect
Cold start and check the oil condition
SuspensionLow

Rear beam bush wear

Typically appears
80,000+ miles
What to inspect
Listen for clonks over bumps
SteeringMedium

Knocking or clicking noise from the steering column due to a degraded EPS motor flexible coupling (star washer).

Typically appears
50,000-80,000 miles
What to inspect
With the engine running and stationary, rapidly rock the steering wheel left and right by a few inches. Listen for a distinct clunking sound from behind the dashboard.
BrakesMedium

Rear brake caliper binding caused by the handbrake mechanism seizing, leading to dragging brakes and excessive heat.

Typically appears
40,000-70,000 miles or 5+ years
What to inspect
Check rear brake discs for heavy scoring or blueing. Apply and release the handbrake, then push the car on a flat surface to feel for resistance or listen for dragging pads.
DrivetrainMedium

Clutch judder when pulling away in first gear, particularly when cold, common on manual 1.4 and 1.6 CRDi models.

Typically appears
40,000-60,000 miles
What to inspect
Start the engine from cold, engage first gear, and slowly release the clutch to the biting point with minimal revs. Feel for a pronounced vibration or judder through the pedal.
ExhaustHigh

DPF blockage or EGR valve sticking on CRDi diesels used for short urban trips, leading to limp mode.

Typically appears
60,000-90,000 miles
What to inspect
Start the engine and check for the DPF or engine management light. Rev to 3000rpm and check for hesitation, uneven idling, or excessive black or grey smoke from the exhaust.

Faults that appear at any mileage

Age, electronics and build-related issues that are not mileage-driven.

BodyMedium

Corrosion on arches and tailgate

Typically appears
Age-related
What to inspect
Probe the arches and tailgate lip
ElectricalLow

Central locking and window faults

Typically appears
Age-related
What to inspect
Test all doors and windows

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Kia Venga · frequently asked questions

Good trade stock?

Yes for older buyers wanting a high seating position.

Main check?

Corrosion and brake condition on low mileage cars.

Any warranty left?

Rarely, the seven year term has usually expired.

Which engine is best for forecourt turnaround?

The 1.4 petrol is the most desirable for typical Venga buyers, who usually do low-mileage urban driving. It avoids the DPF and dual-mass flywheel complexities of the CRDi diesels. The 1.6 petrol automatic is also highly sought after by older demographics, commanding a premium despite higher road tax brackets.

Are there any specific automatic transmission issues to look out for?

The Venga uses a traditional four-speed torque converter automatic on earlier models, later upgraded to a six-speed. Both are generally robust, but the four-speed can suffer from harsh shifting if the ATF has not been changed. Ensure gear engagements from Park to Drive or Reverse are smooth without severe jolts.

What is the situation with the panoramic sunroof on high-spec models?

High-spec trims often feature a panoramic sunroof which is prone to rattling and sticking on its runners. The mechanism requires regular lubrication. If the roof struggles to open, retracts unevenly, or makes grinding noises, the cassette may require a costly replacement which will heavily impact your profit margin.

Other Venga model years

201620132010

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