2018 Hyundai Kona
This year had at least 30% fewer complaints than this model's typical year.
This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.
- Complaints
- 75
- Recalls
- 0
- Investigations
- 1
- Top problem
- Engine
None on file
Opened by NHTSA
56% of complaints
Complaints per year
2018: 75 complaints
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 2018 | 75 |
| 2019 | 198 |
| 2020 | 161 |
| 2021 | 120 |
| 2022 | 101 |
| 2023 | 65 |
| 2024 | 51 |
| 2025 | 28 |
| 2026 | 10 |
Known problem areas
Percentages can add to more than 100% — a complaint can name more than one system.
Engine
56% · 42 reportsShow complaint excerpts
Pulled into driveway and saw smoke coming from engine. Popped hood and saw engine block was on fire. Quickly closed the hood and called 911. Within a few minutes the car was completely engulfed.
NHTSA ODI report, 2023-10-06
Was driving Hyundai Kona down the freeway. I smelled a burning smell, I saw the check engine light blink once. The car went into limp mode and I started pulling over to the shoulder.
NHTSA ODI report, 2020-01-20
car had an engine knock at 110,000 miles and took it to a repair shop and said they are pretty sure it was an engine rod and that the whole engine needed to be replaced still waiting to get it to the dealership to see what they are going to do due...
NHTSA ODI report, 2026-09-19
Power train
15% · 11 reportsElectrical system
11% · 8 reportsShow complaint excerpts
I was sold a car with 1 unprepared safety recall and 22 technical service bulletins. In addition to was previously salvaged sue to collision, hail, flood and fire. The vehicle also was a 2019 made into a 2018.
NHTSA ODI report, 2023-11-02
Also filed under Forward collision avoidance
Fuel/propulsion system
5% · 4 reportsVisibility/wiper
4% · 3 reportsSafety timeline
No recalls on file for this model year.
0 recalls · 1 investigation · oldest first
To check one car, enter its VIN on the NHTSA recall page. Check a VIN →
-
I
2022-09-12Defect petitionClosed 2023-12-12 Loss of Motive Power
Buy-smart checklist
2018 Hyundai Kona — pre-purchase inspection
Inspect
- Engine: 42 reports on file for this year.
- Power train: 11 reports on file for this year.
- Electrical system: 8 reports on file for this year.
Other years of this model
See all years ranked →FAQ
- Is the 2018 Hyundai Kona reliable?
- Based on NHTSA complaint volume compared to this model's typical year, the 2018 Hyundai Kona is rated "better than typical".
- What are the most common problems with the 2018 Hyundai Kona?
- The most-reported component is engine, accounting for 56% of complaints on file.
- How many recalls does the 2018 Hyundai Kona have?
- No recalls are on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-11-01 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.