2021 Hyundai Kona

117 complaints on file, page 1 of 6.

1. Filed Sep 30, 2026Failure Sep 23, 2026Cincinnati, OHEngine

   My 2021 Kona Limited 1.6L Turbo is consuming oil so rapidly that the Low Oil Pressure light has activated on the highway, creating a sudden risk of stalling and engine failure, that the dealership and Hyundai are declining service. According to research, when your oil pressure light flashes, your engine is moments away from locking up. If that happens at 65 mph on a highway, it is a catastrophic safety risk. I am the original owner of 2021 Kona Limited under warranty. The dealership refused to help me after my car lost oil, citing one missed service from over three years ago. That gap was due to a severe family medical emergency where my partner was hospitalized off and on for over three months. My vehicle has a proven history of dealer maintenance before and after that event. This is the 4th time the car has totally lost oil, with no indications that is was even close or anything wrong until it was empty the warning came and check to find zero oil. The first time it happened on 2/4/2026 the dealership did not make a record and had me come back in 1000 miles to have it checked and they said it was fine. The next 2 times were recorded with Hyundai dealership and I was told that due to "Gross Maintenance Neglect" Hyundai declined any additional services. They put the car back together just replacing the fuel line/hose. On 9/23/2023 the check oil light blinked for 1-3 seconds. I was 3 minutes from home parked, allowed the car to cool and checked oil, again there was none. Put 4 1/2 quarts and that is what it holds and the next morning went to the dealership, where I was turned away, with them saying Hyundai declined any additional services for this issue and there was nothing they could do. I was told to contact corporate, I did that minute from the parking lot. Given a case number and told I would be contacted, went over all of the issues again with corporate and today was told they are still declining any service even though it is still under warranty.

   NHTSA complaint 11768190
2. Filed Sep 11, 2026Failure Sep 3, 2026Garfield Heights, OHEngine

   "The vehicle suffered sudden internal engine failure while in operation due to catastrophic oil starvation, presenting a severe risk of engine stalling and loss of propulsion on the road. Active diagnostic codes are P0014, P0017, and P0303. An independent mechanic confirmed the engine was found 3 quarts low on oil with absolutely no external leaks or pooling under the vehicle, indicating massive internal oil consumption. This vehicle has been meticulously maintained with 11 consecutive oil changes logged between 15,202 miles and 115,926 miles. This oil loss starved the hydraulic timing components of fluid pressure, causing immediate timing failure. The manufacturer's current safety recall campaign (Recall 203) fails to include this specific VIN despite the vehicle exhibiting the exact engine failure defect profile.

   NHTSA complaint 11763547
3. Filed Aug 21, 2026Failure May 1, 2026Spanish Fort, ALEngine

   At approximately 100,500 miles, the 2.0L Nu engine experienced a sudden, catastrophic internal failure while operating, causing a loss of power and stalling. Failed Component & Availability: The engine block assembly failed internally due to severe low compression (95 psi) across multiple cylinders and intake valve leakage. The original failed engine component was replaced and retained by the servicing dealership's service department during the long-block replacement. Safety Risk: The sudden loss of engine power and stalling occurred while navigating active traffic, creating an immediate crash hazard due to the loss of momentum and propulsion on a public roadway. Diagnosis & Confirmation: The failure was independently confirmed by a certified master mechanic (compression test showing 95 psi) and subsequently diagnosed and confirmed by an authorized manufacturer dealership service department. Inspection History: The vehicle was fully inspected by the authorized dealership, which verified the low compression, confirmed internal engine failure, and performed a full long-block engine replacement.

   NHTSA complaint 11758555
4. Filed Aug 18, 2026Failure Aug 18, 2026Sussex, WIEngine

   2021 Hyundai Kona, VIN [XXX], 45,575 miles. Engine unexpectedly stalled while driving on 45 mph road and stopped at a light. Oil-pressure warning appeared when the engine stalled. Upon checking afterward, the oil level was below the measurable dipstick range with only droplets visible. Approximately 3.5 quarts were added. Vehicle restarted and was driven home. While idling at home, pressing the accelerator caused the engine to stall again. Vehicle had received an oil change at 39,073 miles and oil had also been checked and topped off approximately six months earlier. Cause has not yet been diagnosed. Hyundai VIN lookup currently shows no open or closed safety campaigns. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

   NHTSA complaint 11757800
5. Filed Jul 22, 2026Failure Mar 1, 202660,000 milesJeffersonville, OHHorn

   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.

   NHTSA complaint 11752233
6. Filed Jul 9, 2026Failure Jul 2, 202685,000 milesChicago, ILEngine

   The contact owns a 2021 Hyundai Kona. The contact stated that while driving at approximately 5 MPH while making a turn, the vehicle stalled. Several warning lights illuminated but turned off after the vehicle was restarted. The contact stated that the failure occurred intermittently. The contact stated that several independent mechanics were notified of the failure; however, an appointment was denied due to the absence of illuminated warning lights. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or a dealer. The dealer and the manufacturer were not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 85,000.

   NHTSA complaint 11749283
7. Filed Jun 30, 2026Failure Mar 20, 2026Dale, TXEngine, Fuel/propulsion system

   Low speed hesitancy and shuddering. Car has lost power when driving at 55 mph. Car does not want to move at very slow speeds as in a parking garage. It hesitates and starts to roll backwards.

   NHTSA complaint 11747397
8. Filed Jun 27, 2026Failure Jun 5, 2026Plattsmouth, NEEngine, Power train

   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 warrants Hyundai's attention and consideration for goodwill assistance. I would appreciate a prompt response outlining what steps Hyundai is willing to take to help resolve this issue. I have been a Hyundai owner in good faith, and I am disappointed that after spending hundreds of dollars on recommended repairs, my vehicle remains unresolved.

   NHTSA complaint 11746920
9. Filed Jun 15, 2026Failure Oct 22, 2025170,000 milesSublimity, ORLinkages

   The contact owns a 2021 Hyundai Kona. The contact stated that there was a strong odor inside the vehicle. The contact stated that while cleaning and detailing the vehicle to remove the odor, the contact discovered that a leak had damaged the floorboard and the carpet. The vehicle was taken to the dealer to be diagnosed with a windshield wiper fluid leak coming from the fluid line routed through the floorboard. The fluid line was disconnected; however, the issue was not fully repaired, and the rear windshield wiper remained inoperable. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 170,000.

   NHTSA complaint 11744307
10. Filed May 1, 2026Failure Apr 30, 2026Gardendale, ALAutomatic emergency braking

    The automatic emergency braking system brakes way too hard causing the car to stop too fast and risks causing a rear end collision. This is not fixed by adjusting settings. It is a common complaint and the system needs to be calibrated to brake more smoothly.

    NHTSA complaint 11735057
11. Filed Apr 22, 2026Failure Dec 5, 2023simi valley, CAEngine, Unknown or other

    I purchased a 2021 Hyundai Kona in 2023. I own it outright. 2 weeks later my engine seized on the CA 118 in the middle lane & I lost steering & power. I don’t know how I made it to the side w cars doing 80. I was shaking. The dealer refurbished my engine no cost , it was due to the oil consumption problem & the piston ring issues many cars in ‘20 & ‘21 had. I had a Hyundai rep call & offer me $400 to sign off on any future engine issues w this car, & I knew this car was likely to have many other future problems after that offer. I did not accept offer. The transmission is also very jerky on surface streets. Well 2 yrs later, the engine started to seize up again today as I was on my way to a dentist appt. I don’t feel safe in this car. I am a 58 y/o woman w fibromyalgia & the stress of the power just shutting down when I’m driving makes my disease flair up terribly. I’ve had many cars & this is the only 1 I’m truly scared to drive alone in , after being stuck on a mountainside road, w no power, no steering, no one w me. I avoid driving at times, because the PTSD from the first incident is always w me . I love to drive - I had a motor home I drove across this country 6 times. I really want to sell this car, but I don’t want some other person to be in danger either. If I knew Hyundais in certain yrs had these issues, I certainly never would have purchased that particular year/model. That should be disclosed w the cars stats if it is known & actually in several class action suits. No advanced warning came on to alert me either - the engine just seized on a mountainside freeway as I was doing 68 mph. I feel lucky to be here after that.

    NHTSA complaint 11733095
12. Filed Apr 9, 2026Failure Apr 8, 2025Houston, TXEngine, Fuel/propulsion system, Service brakes

    I have already replaced the transmission out of pocket 7k its began to do the same thing immediately was flushed a 2nd time and told it could be the motor. Also my battery i have bought 2 new batteries in 2 yrs now to find out its a false warning.

    NHTSA complaint 11730099
13. Filed Apr 6, 2026Failure Apr 6, 202682,000 milesVancouver, WAEngine

    The contact owns a 2021 Hyundai Kona. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle lost motive power. The contact was unaware of the warning lights that were illuminated during the failure. The vehicle was unable to be restarted. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed and determined that the piston rings had failed and that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, where it was diagnosed that the piston rings had failed and that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure, and a case was opened. The approximate failure mileage was 82,000.

    NHTSA complaint 11729419
14. Filed Apr 2, 2026Failure Mar 3, 2026Roy, UTEngine

    VIN: [XXX] 2021 Hyundai Kona experienced sudden engine failure at approximately 103,000 miles. The engine began knocking without any prior warning, and the check engine light came on at the same time the knocking started. The vehicle was not driven for an extended period after the issue began. There were no earlier warning indicators or drivability issues that would suggest neglect or lack of maintenance. The failure was immediate and unexpected. This vehicle had previously received Hyundai recall T8Y, which involved an ECU update related to engine monitoring and performance. Despite this manufacturer intervention, the engine still experienced sudden failure. Hyundai has denied warranty and goodwill coverage for this failure. This appears to be a premature engine failure and raises concerns about reliability and safety due to the sudden nature of the issue. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

    NHTSA complaint 11728953
15. Filed Apr 2, 2026Failure Mar 26, 2026Missoula, MTEngine

    Engine is consuming oil and developed piston slap, per the mechanic I took it to. Currently it sounds like there is gravel inside the engine and it does not seem safe to drive. The Malfunction Indicator Lamp has also come on, the codes were cleared by my mechanic but they told me it likely will return. The piston slap developed a week ago today (Thursday), the MIL started flashing 3 days later (Sunday), mechanic did the oil change on Tuesday and noted the Piston Slap at that time. All symptoms point to the issues noted in #21V-301, but my VIN is not included in that recall per the NHTSA website.

    NHTSA complaint 11728721
16. Filed Mar 25, 2026Failure Oct 4, 2024Bend, OREngine, Power train

    I am reporting a persistent and unresolved excessive oil consumption issue that I began to notice at approximately 61,000 miles. I follow all routine maintenance and oil change schedules, but my car has returned to the dealership I purchased from (only owner), three times for this specific problem. - First Visit (64,074 miles): I shared my observations of excessive oil consumption to the dealership, they stated there was an oil leak at the timing cover and oil pan. They repaired the leaks, however this did not resolve the consumption issue. - Second Visit (65,273 miles) - The oil change done by Mobil at 75,238 miles, before I brought my car in for the third time to Hyundai for the consumption issue, documented that my oil level was at the 'Low'(L) level, this is the case each time I get an oil change around 3,000 miles - The third time bringing my car to Hyundai my mileage was at 78,913, less than 3,000 miles since my last oil change. Before making the appointment my cars engine sounded like it was running rough so we took a look at the oil level, which was at L - The first two times I did the 1000 mile oil test, Hyundai reported that my oil level remained above Full when I returned for a check, shortly after, within an additional 2000 miles, my dipstick would show L. The third reading is TBD.

    NHTSA complaint 11727138
17. Filed Mar 21, 2026Failure Mar 10, 2026Mission Viejo, CAEngine

    The vehicle has 82.000 miles on it, and the engine started to rattle as I entered the street to my house, and the motor quit running. I had the vehicle hauled to a repair garage for analysis, and they said the piston rings failed. The vehicle is in perfect shape except for the broken engine.

    NHTSA complaint 11726081
18. Filed Mar 9, 2026Failure May 15, 202560,000 milesFairland, INEngine, Engine and engine cooling

    The contact owns a 2021 Hyundai Kona. The contact stated that while driving at a slow speed or making a turn, the vehicle stalled. In addition, there was an abnormal ticking sound coming from the engine. There was an unknown code displayed on the instrument panel. Most recently, the engine started consuming an excessive amount of engine oil. The contact was adding oil every other week to the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic; however, no cause for the failure was found. The contact stated that on a separate occasion, while the accelerator was depressed, the engine made a rough revving sound. The contact stated that at the beginning, the vehicle stalled after the contact drove over a speed bump or drove around a roundabout. The contact moved the gear shift lever to neutral(N) and restarted the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to the dealer; however, the vehicle was not inspected or repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The failure mileage was approximately 60,000.

    NHTSA complaint 11723139
19. Filed Mar 9, 2026Failure Oct 9, 2025121,334 milesAtlanta, GAEngine

    The contact owns a 2021 Hyundai Kona. The contact stated that while attempting to accelerate from a stop and while driving at various speeds, the vehicle stalled unexpectedly. The vehicle was coasted to the side of the road, and the vehicle was turned off and restarted, and continued driving. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to Auto Zone, where it was determined that the spark plugs had failed and needed to be replaced. The spark plugs were replaced; however, the check engine warning light remained illuminated, and the vehicle stalled. The failure had occurred three times; however, the last time, the vehicle failed to restart, and there was smoke coming from underneath the hood. The vehicle was towed to the dealer to be diagnosed. The contact was informed that the turbocharger and the piston rings had failed, and the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The vehicle was towed back to the residence. The contact became aware of NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V301000 (Engine); however, the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was 121,334

    NHTSA complaint 11722878
20. Filed Mar 6, 2026Failure Jan 30, 2026Belmont, MAWheels

    I am writing to formally escalate a serious safety concern regarding my 2021 Hyundai Kona Ultimate, which was sold to me as a new vehicle in April 2021 but was equipped with tires manufactured in 2019 at the time of delivery. This issue raises significant concerns regarding product safety, quality control, and customer protection. I have already contacted Hyundai Customer Care and have been working with a case manager regarding this matter. During our conversation on February 23, 2026, I was informed that the issue would be investigated and that I would receive an update by February 27, 2026. As of today, I have not received any meaningful response or resolution. The absence of communication and delay in addressing a matter that directly affects the safety of my family is unacceptable. I currently reside in the Boston, Massachusetts area, where winter driving conditions regularly involve snow, ice, and freezing temperatures. Tires are one of the most critical safety components of a vehicle under these conditions. Installing tires that were already approximately two years old at the time the vehicle was sold as new significantly reduced the usable safe life of those tires. According to guidance provided by the tire manufacturer, tires installed on new vehicles should ideally be recently manufactured, and tire age is a key safety consideration regardless of mileage. Because the tires on my Kona were manufactured in 2019, their safe service life has effectively been shortened by several years through no fault of my own.

    NHTSA complaint 11722507