This page covers 2 recalls, 66 owner complaints, NHTSA crash-test ratings and EPA fuel economy for the 2023 Hyundai Kona.
120 MPGe combined
Small Sport Utility Vehicle 2WD
Fuel economy data from fueleconomy.gov (EPA / U.S. Dept. of Energy). Annual cost based on 15,000 mi/yr at 55% city driving and current fuel prices. MPG is U.S. gallons; L/100km converted. Ranges reflect the 5 tested variants for this model year.
5/5 Overall
NHTSA 5-Star Safety Rating
Electrical complaints dominate what 2023 Kona owners report, with the horn being the single most recurring issue, owners describe it failing intermittently or going completely inoperable, in some cases repeatedly after prior repairs. Other electrical reports involve the liftgate malfunctioning, keeping interior lights on and draining the battery. Forward collision avoidance generates the second-largest share of complaints, where owners describe the system activating unexpectedly or behaving erratically. Powertrain complaints are less numerous but include reports of hesitation on acceleration, sometimes accompanied by a momentary stability control warning light, particularly when the engine start/stop feature is active. The horn failures stand out for their persistence, multiple owners describe the problem returning after dealership service, with some vehicles leaving the lot already affected.
66
Total Complaints
4
Crash-Related
2
With Injuries
By System
The 2023 Hyundai Kona has two recalls, both centered on the same fire risk: the circuit board inside the transmission's electric oil pump can overheat and short circuit, potentially starting a vehicle fire.
The pump in question is part of the Idle Stop and Go system, which manages engine shutoff and restart at stops to save fuel. When the controller for this pump overheats, it can also cause various other electrical systems in the vehicle to stop working properly, which may affect normal driving operation before any fire risk becomes apparent.
At a glance
What can fail
The electronic controller for the Idle Stop & Go oil pump may have damaged electrical components that cause the pump controller to overheat.
What the fix does
Dealers will inspect and replace the electric oil pump controller as needed at no cost to you.
We may earn a commission for purchases made through these links.
Driver Assistance
Ratings from NHTSA's New Car Assessment Program (NCAP). Based on 2 tested variants; worst-case ratings shown.
Complaints are owner-reported and reflect individual experiences, not confirmed defects. They are distinct from recalls. Data sourced from the national vehicle safety complaint database. See trending complaints →
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The transmission electric oil pump circuit board may be damaged, causing it to short circuit and overheat. This can make various electrical systems malfunction.
What the fix does
A dealership will inspect and replace the transmission electric oil pump controller as needed.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
