Kona (1st)
NHTSA Safety Ratings About NHTSA ratings
Engine Reliability Ratings
T-GDI THETA II
2.0L 4-cyl Turbo / 280 hpView details
Complaint Breakdown
Known Issues
HMC Battery + Traction Motor
View details
Complaint Breakdown
Known Issues
T-GDI GAMMA
1.6L 4-cyl Turbo / 175 hpView details
Complaint Breakdown
Known Issues
MPI Nu
2.0L 4-cyl / 147 hpView details
Complaint Breakdown
Known Issues
Vehicle-Level Issues
These issues affect the Hyundai Kona regardless of engine variant.
Recalls (3)
Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2023-2024 Palisade Tucson, 2023 Sonata, Elantra, and Kona vehicles. The electronic controller for the Idle Stop & Go oil pump assembly may contain damaged electrical components that can cause the pump controller to overheat.
Hyundai 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.
Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2020 Kona vehicles. The certification label may indicate incorrect Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR). As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) numbers 567, "Certification" and 110, "Tire Selection and Rims."
All Generations
Alternatives in Compact SUV
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common 2018-2023 Hyundai Kona problems?
The 2018-2023 Hyundai Kona has accumulated 1,019 NHTSA complaints. The most frequently reported problem areas are Engine, Electrical System, Transmission. As with any used vehicle, a pre-purchase inspection and vehicle history report are recommended.
Which Hyundai Kona engine is most reliable?
The 2018-2023 Hyundai Kona was offered with 4 engine options. Based on NHTSA complaint data, the 2.0L 4-cyl has the lowest complaint density and is considered the most reliable choice for buyers.
Is the 2018-2023 Hyundai Kona a good used car?
The 2018-2023 Hyundai Kona can be a solid used car purchase depending on trim, mileage, and maintenance history. With 1,019 total NHTSA complaints on record, prospective buyers should review the known problem areas and check for open recalls before buying.
How many NHTSA complaints does the 2018-2023 Hyundai Kona have?
The 2018-2023 Hyundai Kona has 1,019 complaints filed with NHTSA as of our latest data pull. Complaint counts reflect owner-reported issues and do not necessarily indicate defects or safety risks on their own.
What recalls affect the 2018-2023 Hyundai Kona?
There are 3 NHTSA recalls affecting some 2018-2023 Hyundai Kona vehicles. Recall status varies by VIN — check the NHTSA recall database at recalls.nhtsa.dot.gov with your specific VIN to confirm which campaigns apply.
What should I check before buying a used Hyundai Kona?
Before buying a used Hyundai Kona, verify all open recalls are completed via the NHTSA VIN lookup tool. Pay particular attention to Engine, Electrical System, Transmission, which are the most commonly reported problem areas. Request maintenance records, have an independent mechanic inspect the vehicle, and run a vehicle history report to check for prior accidents or title issues.
What are the NHTSA crash test ratings for the Kona?
The 2023 Hyundai Kona received an overall 5-star safety rating from NHTSA. Frontal crash: 5 stars. Side crash: 5 stars. Rollover: 4 stars (13.6% rollover probability). Electronic Stability Control: Standard. Forward Collision Warning: Standard & Optional. Lane Departure Warning: Standard. These ratings are based on standardized crash tests conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
Data from NHTSA federal complaints database. 1,019 complaints analyzed. Data confidence: high. Last updated: 2026-04-07.