NHTSA lists 1 safety recall and 147 owner complaints for the 2021 Hyundai Kona. Most complaints involve engine (85) and electrical system (21). The EPA rates it 27–120 mpg combined, and NHTSA gives it 5 stars overall.
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.
Complaints are unverified owner reports to NHTSA and are not normalized for sales volume. One complaint can cite several components.
“The contact owns a 2021 Hyundai Kona Electric. The contact stated that since purchasing the vehicle, an abnormal rumble sound was heard that grew progressively louder. Additionally, while accelerating from a complete stop, the vehicle was significantly sluggish. The failure recurred while driving at 30 MPH, requiring the driver to pull over to the shoulder of the road. Upon shutting off and restarting the vehicle, the vehicle returned to normal operation. The vehicle was taken to a dealer, who was unable to duplicate the failure during a test drive. The vehicle was returned to the dealer, who confirmed the failure; however, the contact was informed that the failure was not associated with TSB Number: 22-EV-001H (KONA EV MOTOR RUMBLE NOISE) because the rumble sound was not sufficiently loud. The contact stated that the sound had grown significantly louder. The vehicle was scheduled to be towed to the dealer. The failure mileage exceeded 60,000.”
“The contact owns a 2021 Hyundai Kona. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the horn button was depressed but was inoperable. The dealer was contacted and notified of the failure. The contact was informed that the horn needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 60,000.”
“I am writing to express my frustration and concern regarding my 2021 Hyundai Kona, which currently has only 88,754 miles. My vehicle has been experiencing excessive oil consumption along with an ongoing check engine light. The diagnostic trouble codes are P0017 and P0011. In an effort to resolve the issue, I have had both the intake and exhaust VVT components replaced and the oil changed. When the problem persisted, my mechanic advised that Hyundai OEM parts were required. I then spent approximately $700 replacing the components with OEM parts, yet the check engine light remains on and the same issues continue. At fewer than 89,000 miles, I do not believe these are problems that should be occurring on a properly maintained vehicle. I have already invested significant money trying to repair what appears to be a larger issue, and I am left with a vehicle that is still not functioning correctly. I am requesting that Hyundai investigate this matter and provide assistance in diagnosing and repairing the underlying cause. Given the known concerns regarding excessive oil consumption and timing-related issues reported by other Hyundai owners, I believe this situation…”
Towing, payload and dimensions aren’t in the EPA or NHTSA data, so we don’t list them.
| Version | City | Hwy | Comb. | Fuel / yr | CO₂ g/mi |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kona Electric Auto (A1) · Front-Wheel Drive | 132 | 108 | 120 | $600 | — |
| Kona FWD Auto (AM7), 4 cyl, 1.6 L, Turbo · Front-Wheel Drive | 28 | 32 | 30 | $2,100 | 303 |
| Kona FWD Auto (S6), 4 cyl, 2.0 L · Front-Wheel Drive | 27 | 33 | 30 | $2,100 | 300 |
| Kona AWD Auto (AM7), 4 cyl, 1.6 L, Turbo · All-Wheel Drive | 26 | 29 | 27 | $2,300 | 324 |
| Kona AWD Auto (S6), 4 cyl, 2.0 L · All-Wheel Drive | 25 | 30 | 27 | $2,300 | 326 |
| Item | Miles | Time | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine oil & filter | 5,000–10,000 mi | 6–12 months | Follow the oil-life monitor if fitted |
| Tire rotation | 5,000–7,500 mi | Every oil change | Check pressure monthly |
| Engine air filter | 15,000–30,000 mi | 1–2 years | Sooner in dusty areas |
| Cabin air filter | 15,000–25,000 mi | 1–2 years | |
| Brake fluid | — | 2–3 years | Absorbs moisture over time |
| Coolant | 60,000–100,000 mi | 5–10 years | Long-life coolants last longer |
| Spark plugs | 60,000–100,000 mi | — | Iridium/platinum plugs at the long end |
| 12V battery | — | 3–5 years | Heat shortens battery life |
1 safety recall as of Nov 9, 2026, according to NHTSA. Recall repairs are free at a dealer. Check your VIN to see whether your car is included and whether the repair was done.
Owners filed 147 complaints with NHTSA. The most-cited components are engine (85), electrical system (21), power train (15). Complaints are unverified owner reports and aren't adjusted for how many cars were sold.
The EPA rates the 2021 Hyundai Kona at 27–120 mpg combined, depending on engine and drivetrain (5 versions rated).
NHTSA's New Car Assessment Program gives the 2021 Hyundai Kona 5 out of 5 stars overall.