Avoid: 2020 (lowest Year Scores on complaints per year on the road, crash reports and recalls)
Best: 2018
6 model years of NHTSA owner complaints and recalls · How we grade
Across 9 model years, the Hyundai Kona has 1,225 owner-filed NHTSA complaints and 22 recalls on record. The most-reported areas are engine and electrical system. 2020 drew the most complaints (343), 2023 the fewest of the years on the road 3+ years (74).
Source: NHTSA complaints and recalls filed for Hyundai Kona vehicles (US, public record). Typical used asking price $16,632–$22,625.
Complaint volume by model year. Raw NHTSA totals, not adjusted for sales volume or time on the road, so older and higher-selling years accumulate more. Every year links to its full breakdown.
Highest: 2020 (343 complaints). Lowest: 2023 (74).
Sentiment is sharply divided by powertrain and generation, with no clear consensus.
Rough idle, failure to start, excessive oil consumption) in first-generation gasoline models (approx. 2018-2023).
"Laggy" or "jumpy" feeling in DCT models; concerns over CVT reliability.
Apple CarPlay/Android Auto connectivity failures, random warning lights (check engine, collision avoidance), HVAC system malfunctioning.
Single click/no-start condition, often related to battery drain or undiagnosed electrical faults.
Isolated but severe reports of the vehicle losing throttle response at highway speeds in 2024 N Line models.
Owner insights cover all generations of the Kona. Individual model years are broken down above.
We're building a full check by VIN: the exact trim and engine, its known problems and recalls, what to inspect, a fair price, and how it compares with its rivals. Get an email when it's ready.
One email when it launches. Unsubscribe any time. Privacy