Hyundai Kona Complaints (2020)

189 consumer complaints on file.

#11773096October 22, 2026
ENGINE
My 2020 Kona 2.OL failed an oil test losing 2.5 quarts in 960 miles, stalled on the highway, and blows oil out the tailpipe. Hyundai (Case #43141313) is denying repair coverage because my VIN was excluded from Recall 21V301000. This recall needs to be expanded to include my VIN.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11770764October 13, 2026
ENGINE
The contact owns a 2020 Hyundai Kona. The contact stated that while driving at 35 MPH, the accelerator pedal was depressed, but the vehicle hesitated, and there was white smoke coming from the exhaust. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic, where the contact was advised to take the vehicle to a dealer. The dealer was made aware of the failure. The contact referenced an unknown recall; however, the VIN was not associated with a recall related to the failure. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 53,976.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11767813September 29, 2026
ENGINE
COMPONENT THAT FAILED: The engine short block piston rings (related to NHTSA recall 203) failed, causing severe cylinder wall scoring. The vehicle is currently located at an authorized Hyundai dealership and is available for manufacturer or NHTSA inspection. SAFETY RISK; The defective piston rings caused severe internal oil consumption, resulting in hydraulic oil starvation. This creates a high risk of sudden engine stalling, catastrophic engine seizure, and complete loss of motive power while driving in traffic. CONFIRMATION AND INSPECTION: Yes, the defect has been confirmed. The current Hyundai dealership performed a boroscope inspection, which physically confirmed severe vertical metal scoring in cylinder 3. They also documented that the engine was 1.5q low on oil with zero external leaks, confirming internal consumption. Despite physical proof of the recall defect, the manufacturer is currently refusing to honor the recall repair. WARNING LAMPS/SYMPTOMS: The check engine light illuminated, logging exhaust camshaft timing correlation codes (P0017). This first April 2026 at 169,000 miles. This timing code is a secondary hydraulic symptom caused by the severe internal oil starvation originating from priary lower block cylinder scoring defect.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11767214September 27, 2026
ENGINE
I was fortunate to check my daughter's oil and noticed that it was almost empty. I alerted the dealer because I recently got an oil change and thought there was a leak, but no oil was on the driveway. The dealer performed an oil consumption test. They said it was 1 quart per 1,000 miles and this is acceptable. There are other models that are on the recall list, but mine is not. The dealer and Hyundai said that they will not pay for repairs because it is out of warranty. The bigger issue here is that Hyundai is aware of this issue (oil burning fast in these vehicles) and they are not warning owners to check their oil. This is a cute car and it is driven by college age girls who do not think about checking oil. If the oil runs dry, the engine can seize up and the car will stop. This can cause an accident and possible fatality. I am very concerned about the safety of my daughter and others. I have 5 quarts of oil in my daughters trunk to top it off regularly. This information needs to be given to owners of these vehicles to increase awareness of the problem an prevent a tragedy.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11763068September 9, 2026
ENGINE
The contact owns a 2020 Hyundai Kona. The vehicle was taken to the dealer to be repaired under NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V301000 (Engine); however, the dealer was unable to perform the recall repair because the vehicle had not experienced a failure associated with the recall and there were no fault codes displayed or retrieved associated with the recall. However, an independent mechanic recommended that the engine be replaced. The contact provided the dealer with the fault codes and the failures that the independent mechanic had found; however, the dealer was unable to retrieve the same fault codes. The contact stated that the check engine warning light was illuminated. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and agreed with the dealer and refused additional assistance. The vehicle was not repaired.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11760900August 31, 2026
ENGINE
The contact owns a 2020 Hyundai Kona. The contact stated that the vehicle was repaired under NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V301000 (Engine); however, the recall repair failed to prevent the failure from occurring. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the vehicle lost motive power and failed to restart using the ignition key. The vehicle was towed to a dealer, Capital Hyundai of Greensboro (801 E Bessemer Ave, Greensboro, NC 27405), where it remained for further diagnosis. The contact stated that during the prior recall repair, the Continuously Variable Valve Timing (CVVT) assembly, Engine Control Module (ECM), and Body Control Module (BCM) were replaced, a solenoid was installed, and the engine was inspected but not replaced. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, and a case was opened. The failure mileage was approximately 72,000.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11759906August 27, 2026
POWER TRAIN, ENGINE
Leaking oil...burns exceptionally fast even with dealership services. Pistons not sealed, melts new spark plugs, misfire on cylinder 3
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11759509August 25, 2026
ENGINE
My 2020 Hyundai Kona experienced an engine-related malfunction. An authorized Hyundai dealer inspected the vehicle, confirmed diagnostic code P1327, and determined that the complete engine required replacement. Hyundai authorized the replacement, and the vehicle remained out of service for approximately two weeks. The engine defect created a safety concern because an engine malfunction could cause reduced or complete loss of motive power while driving, increasing the risk of a crash. The dealer inspected and removed the original engine; I do not know whether it remains available for further inspection, but the repair order and diagnostic records are available. I am filing this complaint so NHTSA can document this engine failure and determine whether it is related to NHTSA Campaign 21V301 / Hyundai Recall 203 and whether additional investigation or corrective action is warranted.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11755635August 8, 2026
ENGINE
I received the recall, brought the Kona in had the software download. Now the engine code indicates engine issues with the safety code. Hyundai customer service representatives stars because the issue wasn't found and the software download completed this doesn't fall under the recall. I do have an appointment to bring the Kona into the dealership but because Hyundai states it is no longer under the recall I am responsible for the towing and will not be remembursed. When I initially brought the vehicle in I was told if the pistons and engine codes appears under the recall layer on towing and replacement of the engine is covered. I was also told my engine covered up to 150,000 miles. Even through I only have 65,000 Hyndai dealer and customer service stated it is not as this is only if the engine showed signs at the time of the software download. This is absolutely wrong to be treated like this and been advised by my local mechanic this does appear to be part of the recall, will deregulate, or engine could seize up causing a safety issue.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11754634August 4, 2026
ENGINE, POWER TRAIN, SUSPENSION
I am filing a safety complaint against Scott Stark’s South Point Hyundai for selling me a vehicle with an active open safety recall, a blown transmission, an A/C failure, and a dry-rotted tire. Before returning the car for service under a promised 1,000-mile warranty, my sister, who has worked for Corporate Hyundai for 15 years, helped me conduct a full intake baseline inspection at her dealership. We performed a recorded 360-degree video inspection, took high-resolution photos of every square inch, and ran full computer diagnostics, which confirmed zero tool marks on any bolts under the hood or on the transmission, and all diagnostic readings were perfectly recorded. South Point Hyundai kept my vehicle for 10 days for repairs, making excuses about test drives and failing to find technicians. However, a hidden GPS tracker tucked deep under my passenger side carpet meticulously documented every single time the vehicle moved or remained completely stationary on their lot. Upon picking up the vehicle, my sister scanned the car immediately with her diagnostic computer. The readings are now completely erratic and all over the place compared to the baseline corporate readings we documented 10 days prior. Physical inspection reveals that bolts have been turned, internal components have been actively tampered with, and parts have been structurally altered. The evidence directly indicates that this dealership used my personal vehicle as an unauthorized parts donor vehicle to harvest components, severely compromising its mechanical integrity, structural reliability, and overall road safety. This severe tampering has left the vehicle completely unsafe to operate. We possess full video evidence, high-resolution photographs, GPS tracking logs, and comparative corporate Hyundai diagnostic data verifying this severe mechanical fraud. I have turned this info over to Corporate Hyundai, the DMV, and federal enforcement agencies due to safety risks.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11748215July 3, 2026
ENGINE
The Kona was driven a 1/2 hour before parking the vehicle. The Kona was turned off. Within 5 minutes smoke began wafting from under the hood. When I opened the hood to inspect I found the engine & underside of the hood was engulfed in flames. I closed the hood immediately. The Kona fully ignited with minor explosions & burnt completely to the metal frame within 25 minutes.
Crash:
No
Fire:
Yes
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11745092June 18, 2026
ENGINE, FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
The car failed to accelerate on highway on multiple occasions, including when slowing down and then trying to accelerate when pulling out on highways.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11740710May 28, 2026
ENGINE
The contact owns a 2020 Hyunndai Kona. The contact stated while attempting to start the vehicle, the check engine warning light illuminated. The contact's fiance, who is an independent mechanic attached the portable diagnostic tester to the vehicle, and the failure code was P1327. The dealer was made aware of the failure but provided no assistance. The contact was informed that the repair was not covered under warranty. The contact referenced an unknown recall; however, the VIN was not associated with a recall related to the failure. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and a case was filed. The contact as advised to take the vehicle to the dealer for diagnostic testing. The failure mileage was approximately 117,000.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11740362May 27, 2026
SERVICE BRAKES
I am receiving an intermittent "check regenerative brake" message. The message will clear automatically and then reappear every three to four weeks. An internet search reveals this is a common error for the Kona. Most people report no repair by the dealer. In several cases, the brakes stopped working, resulting in collisions. The hydraulic breaks do not work if the regenerative brake system fails leaving you with no way to stop the car. The manufacture has no solution.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11738158May 15, 2026
STRUCTURE:BODY
2020 Hyundai Kona, ~36,300 miles. Driver's side door latch assembly. On or around May 9, 2026, an abnormal mechanical noise began coming from inside the driver's door whenever the key fob lock/unlock button was pressed, consistent with a failing latch actuator. I booked a service appointment, and on May 15, 2026, an authorized Hyundai dealership confirmed the defect and recommended full replacement of the driver's door latch assembly. The vehicle is available for inspection. A latch that does not reliably operate is a serious safety risk. The driver's door is the primary egress point. An intermittent or inoperative latch could prevent emergency exit, block post-collision egress, or prevent first-responder access. The vehicle regularly transports children, increasing the consequence of any failure. No dashboard warning lights, alerts, or messages preceded the failure. This is a mechanical defect that does not trigger electronic warnings. Hyundai TSB 21-BD-006H (May 2021) acknowledges this exact failure mode — door handle inoperative or requiring repeated attempts to open — on the Elantra (AD/ADa) and Tucson (TL). The remedy is full latch assembly replacement, and Hyundai extended warranty coverage on the latch to 10 years / unlimited miles on those models. The 2020 Kona is not named in 21-BD-006H despite exhibiting the identical failure mode at low mileage on a 6-year-old vehicle. The defect appears to extend to the Kona platform and is not currently covered. Vehicle has not been inspected by Hyundai corporate, police, insurance, or independent shops. Filing this complaint to record the cross-platform defect pattern and request that NHTSA evaluate whether the door latch warranty extension should be expanded to include the Kona.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11737318May 12, 2026
ENGINE, VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
The vehicle all shut off as I slowed down for a stop sign. Put in Park turn the key off restarted it got to the next stop sign same thing. Also the red light same had to shut it off put it in put in Park shut off and then restart and step on the gas so I can get through before a car hit me. Happened several times till I finally got the car home done it started knocking loudly and shut off just as I got into my driveway. Check the oil. The oil is fine. Occasionally the oil light would come on if you put in Dr.. It is knocking really loud. The engine light keeps flashing constantly. I called Brown Dobb Hyundai in Easton Pennsylvania. They told me this recall has nothing to do with my car because of the VIN number. But everything that is happening to it is is under recall 187. But because of the VIN number they are insisting it’s not my car. What can I do before I get in an accident? I don’t have any other cars to rely on. I have a son with Autism and I am a single mother. What else can I do? I had this car not even three months.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11737100May 11, 2026
ENGINE
Engine light comes on starts flashing as well as the oil light occasionally. If you slow down or have to stop it completely shuts down you have to put in park and restart the car to get anywhere and start stopping in front in the middle of traffic. So if you slow down to go up a hill or anything, it just stops completely. Also making a clicking or grinding sound not sure.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11733726April 25, 2026
SERVICE BRAKES, VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
I stopped my car foot on brake put it in park and it accelerated on its own and forced me to crash into a concrete wall still not wanting to stop
Crash:
Yes
Fire:
No
Injuries:
1
Deaths:
0
#11731892April 17, 2026
ENGINE
On February 27, 2026, my 2020 Hyundai Kona (Recall 203) suffered a catastrophic engine stall while driving, requiring an emergency tow. The dealership (Rosen Hyundai) and Hyundai Motor America are refusing to perform the Safety Recall 203 remedy unless I first pay $4,715.26 for a timing repair. I was also required to pay $453.05 for wiring repairs just to "enable" the recall test, yet the recall remains unaddressed because of a financial paywall. I am reporting an obstruction of a federal safety recall by the manufacturer.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11730363April 10, 2026
POWER TRAIN
The contact owns a 2020 Hyundai Kona. The contact stated that during a regular maintenance visit, the contact was informed that there was a leak coming from the front axle transfer case, which was initially unrepaired. The vehicle was subsequently taken to a dealer in Colorado, where the seal was replaced. However, while an oil change service was being performed later, it was discovered that the failure recurred because the previous repair was performed incorrectly. The first failure was for an inoperable seal, and the second failure was due to an improper repair. The third inspection confirmed that the seal had not been installed correctly during the prior service. The dealer was notified of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 146,000.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0

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