NHTSA lists 1 safety recall and 124 owner complaints for the 2022 Hyundai Kona. Most complaints involve electrical system (37) and engine (35). The EPA rates it 29–120 mpg combined, and NHTSA gives it 5 stars overall.
Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2019-2022 Veloster N, 2019-2023 Kona Electric vehicles. A software error in the air bag control unit (ACU) may improperly deactivate the air bag system and seat belt pretensioners.
Complaints are unverified owner reports to NHTSA and are not normalized for sales volume. One complaint can cite several components.
“COMPONENT/SYSTEM: Air Conditioning (HVAC) / Climate Control System and closed-loop refrigerant lines. The vehicle and all climate control components are available for immediate inspection. SAFETY RISK: Total loss of cooling in peak summer heat (90°F-95°F+) causes cabin temperatures to rapidly exceed 110°F. This sudden heat trapped in the vehicle caused me (the driver) acute heat exhaustion, culminating in a medical fainting episode. The vehicle regularly transports my newborn baby and toddler, subjecting them to severe heatstroke risks. Additionally, an ongoing 4-year chemical refrigerant leak inside an enclosed EV cabin creates an active toxic inhalation hazard for all passengers. DEALER CONFIRMATION: Yes. The failure has been repeatedly confirmed and documented by authorized Hyundai dealerships, including Paramus Hyundai, Garvey Hyundai, and Liberty Hyundai. Technicians repeatedly measured zero refrigerant charge/pressure, performed UV dye tests, and completed major repairs including AC line and radiator rebuilds without resolving the leak. INSPECTION HISTORY: Yes. Inspected multiple times by authorized Hyundai dealership technicians under official Corporate…”
“My radiator has coolant leak. I noticed the fluid getting low and the smell. I had to put fluid in 2-3 times the last month. I took it into the shop and they confirmed that it is the lower left part of the radiator that it’s leaking from and it has to get replaced. I did notice on a campaign 24\-EM\-005H\. for the Hyundai Kona 2022. But my VIN number wasn’t part of that. It is having the same leak and I have to get the radiator replaced. My car has 65000 miles on it so it wasn’t covered under warranty. It is in the auto shop now and will cost me over 1200 to get it fixed.”
“The vehicle hesitates, jerks, and shakes when accelerating into traffic. The vehicle is at the dealership right now and they said Hyundai won’t approve replacement of the dual clutch unless it’s its below 60%. It’s currently at 61% on one side and 66% on the other side. In my opinion this vehicle is unsafe to drive but they are forcing my daughter to keep driving the vehicle. This is unacceptable.”
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 | $650 | — |
| Kona FWD Auto (AM-S7), 4 cyl, 1.6 L, Turbo · Front-Wheel Drive | 29 | 35 | 32 | $1,950 | 284 |
| Kona FWD Auto (AV-S1), 4 cyl, 2.0 L · Front-Wheel Drive | 30 | 35 | 32 | $1,950 | 281 |
| Kona AWD Auto (AV-S1), 4 cyl, 2.0 L · All-Wheel Drive | 28 | 33 | 30 | $2,100 | 301 |
| Kona AWD Auto (AM-S7), 4 cyl, 1.6 L, Turbo · All-Wheel Drive | 27 | 32 | 29 | $2,150 | 311 |
| 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 124 complaints with NHTSA. The most-cited components are electrical system (37), engine (35), power train (20). Complaints are unverified owner reports and aren't adjusted for how many cars were sold.
The EPA rates the 2022 Hyundai Kona at 29–120 mpg combined, depending on engine and drivetrain (5 versions rated).
NHTSA's New Car Assessment Program gives the 2022 Hyundai Kona 5 out of 5 stars overall.