2026 Hyundai Kona
Only 9 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict.
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.
Only 9 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.
COMPLAINTS PER YEAR
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 2018 | 74 |
| 2019 | 189 |
| 2020 | 157 |
| 2021 | 116 |
| 2022 | 97 |
| 2023 | 64 |
| 2024 | 48 |
| 2025 | 28 |
| 2026 | 9 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
Only 9 complaints on file for this model year -- too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
2 of 9 total reports mention: service brakes.
CRASH INJURYShow complaint excerpts
On April 20, 2026 I was pulling into a parking space. I began to break but something went terribly wrong. My car accelerated on it's own, went over the curb and crashed into a building.
NHTSA ODI report, 20260427
Also filed under UNKNOWN OR OTHER
1 of 9 total reports mentions: vehicle speed control.
1 of 9 total reports mentions: structure, most commonly citing body.
1 of 9 total reports mentions: seat belts.
Show complaint excerpts
I purchased this vehicle new on July 28, 2026. NHTSA Recall 26V-452 / Hyundai Recall 306 was dated July 13, 2026, and the VIN showed the recall as incomplete when I discovered it.
NHTSA ODI report, 20260820
1 of 9 total reports mentions: power train.
Show complaint excerpts
Body: The hood/Under the hood: There is a wide ½â or more gap on the right and left side of the hood. I can see inside under the hood from a distance. It is not flush while connecting to the rest of the vehicle.
NHTSA ODI report, 20251002
SAFETY TIMELINE
Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2026 Kona vehicles. Due to a manufacturing error, the front steering knuckles may crack and break, which can result in a loss of vehicle steering control.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace the front steering knuckles, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 5, 2026. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 295.
Campaign 26V069000 — check if this car was fixed
Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2025-2026 Tucson Hybrid, Tucson Plug-In Hybrid Electric (PHEV), 2026 IONIQ 5, Santa Cruz, Kona, Palisade, Palisade Hybrid, Santa Fe, Santa Fe Hybrid, Sonata, Sonata Hybrid, and Tucson vehicles.
Remedy: The instrument panel display software will be updated over-the-air (OTA) or by a dealer, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 24, 2026. Owners may contact Hyundai's customer service at 855-371-9460.
Campaign 26V047000 — check if this car was fixed
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
2026 Hyundai Kona — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for service brakes issues (2 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for vehicle speed control issues (1 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for structure issues (1 reports on file for this year).
- Verify recall 26V069000 (steering) has been completed.
- Verify recall 26V047000 (electrical system) has been completed.
OTHER YEARS OF THIS MODEL
BEST YEARS
WORST YEARS
FAQ
Is the 2026 Hyundai Kona reliable?
There isn't enough NHTSA complaint data on file yet to give this model year a verdict.
What are the most common problems with the 2026 Hyundai Kona?
The most-reported component is service brakes, accounting for 22% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 2026 Hyundai Kona have?
2 recalls on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-09-16 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.