Photo: Bull-Doser / Public domain / Wikimedia Commons
2021 Hyundai Kona: common problems and reliability
One of the weaker Kona years.
258 owner complaints, most about engine. 1 recall.
Should I buy a 2021 Kona?The 2021 Hyundai Kona has 258 owner-filed NHTSA complaints and 1 recall on record. The most-reported areas are engine and electrical system. Owners most often flag chronic engine problems (stalling: rough idle, failure to start, excessive oil consumption) in first-generation gasoline models (approx. 2018-2023).
Safety record for the 2021 model year
Source: NHTSA complaints and recalls filed for 2021 Hyundai Kona vehicles (US, public record).
The Year Score compares this year with other Kona years only. How we score it
Is 2021 a good year for the Kona?
Across the 9 Kona model years we track, complaint volume runs from 74 (2023) to 343 (2020). With 258 complaints, the 2021 Kona sits above the model's median of 75.
These are raw NHTSA complaint totals, not adjusted for how many cars sold or how long each model year has been on the road. Older and higher-selling years accumulate more complaints.
Where owners report problems
Recalls affecting the 2021 Kona
engine
Campaign 21V301000Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Elantra, 2019-2021 Kona and Veloster vehicles equipped with 2.0L Nu MPI engines. The piston oil rings may not have been properly heat-treated, which could result in engine damage.
What owners say across generations
Sentiment is sharply divided by powertrain and generation, with no clear consensus.
- Very frequentChronic engine problems (stalling
Rough idle, failure to start, excessive oil consumption) in first-generation gasoline models (approx. 2018-2023).
Owner insights cover all generations of the Kona. See the full Kona owner picture and every model year.
Typical used price
Used Kona listings typically run $16,632–$22,625.
Other Kona model years
Compare every Kona year side by side to see how 2021 ranks against the rest.
Compare the Kona against its rivals
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