2021 Hyundai Kona VIN Check, Recalls & Reliability
The 2021 Hyundai Kona has good reliability. There are 1 recall and 102 owner complaints on file for the 2021 Hyundai Kona. Severity signals include 2 crash-related complaints and 3 fire-related complaints. The most commonly reported problem areas are: Engine (51), Unknown Or Other (15), Power Train (13).
Kona reliability snapshot
Data sourced from Auto Reliability Index, aggregating NHTSA recalls, owner complaints, and RepairPal repair-cost records.
Used-car research
Research the Hyundai Kona before checking the VIN
Compare model years, recurring problems, safety campaigns and market value first. Then use the VIN to verify the history of the individual car.
Most-reported 2021 Hyundai Kona issues
Owner-reported problem categories from NHTSA complaint filings. Counts reflect complaints per category for the most-recent model year on file.
- Engine51
- Unknown Or Other15
- Power Train13
- Electrical System9
- Engine And Engine Cooling2
- Wheels2
Pre-purchase inspection checklist for the 2021 Hyundai Kona
Hands-on checks distilled from real NHTSA complaint patterns and recall histories. Bring this list to a test drive or mechanic inspection.
- Check for engine oil consumption by inspecting oil levels and checking for leaks
- Test drive to check for engine stalling or hesitation during acceleration
- Inspect transmission for hard or jerky shifting during gear changes
- Verify if the vehicle has undergone recall repairs for engine issues
- Inspect headlamps for water ingress and ensure proper illumination
- Test the Blind Spot Collision Warning system for consistent operation
- Check for any unusual noises from the engine or transmission
2021 Kona recalls (3)
Every NHTSA safety recall logged against the 2021 Kona. A VIN check confirms whether any recall remains unrepaired on a specific vehicle.
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEMNHTSA 22V941000Dec 16, 2022
Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2021 Kona EV vehicles. The Electric Power Control Unit (EPCU) may have been improperly sealed and may leak coolant internally.
Consequence: Coolant contacting the EPCU circuit board may cause a loss of drive power, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect and replace the EPCU, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 22, 2023. A second notice will be sent once the final remedy is available. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 239.
- SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULICNHTSA 20V748000Dec 1, 2020
Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Nexo Fuel Cell and 2019-2021 Kona Electric vehicles. The Integrated Electronic Brake (IEB) system may detect an abnormal sensor signal and as a result, may significantly reduce braking performance.
Consequence: Reduced braking power could lengthen the distance required to stop the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will update the IEB software, free of charge. The recall began January 25, 2021. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 199.
- ENGINENHTSA 21V301000Apr 28, 2021
Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Elantra, 2019-2021 Kona and Veloster vehicles equipped with 2.0L Nu MPI engines. The piston oil rings may not have been properly heat-treated, which could result in engine damage.
Consequence: A damaged engine may stall, increasing the risk of a crash. In addition, oil may leak onto hot exhaust components, increasing the risk of a fire.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect and, if necessary, replace the engine, free of charge. In addition, Hyundai will deploy Piston Ring Noise Sensing System (PNSS) software. Owner notification letters were mailed August 24, 2021. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460.
Used-market value
2021 Hyundai Kona resale snapshot
Listing benchmarks establish a market range; trim, mileage, condition, title history and prior damage determine what one vehicle is worth.
2021 Hyundai Kona on the road
89,607 2021 Hyundai Kona units were sold new in the US — a key signal for the size of today's used-market inventory.
How the 2021 Hyundai Kona stacks up against rivals
The most-shopped alternatives in the same segment. Each link opens a side-by-side reliability and cost comparison.
Reliability verdict for the 2021 Hyundai Kona
The 2021 Hyundai Kona exhibits moderate reliability, falling slightly below the segment average with a score of 63 out of 100. This suggests a mixed reliability profile. The vehicle has one limited recall, indicating a relatively low level of manufacturer-initiated corrections. However, consumer complaints are notably concentrated in the engine category, which accounts for over half of the reported issues. This concentration could suggest a potential area of concern for buyers prioritizing engine reliability.
Other complaints are more evenly distributed among the electrical system, power train, and miscellaneous issues, indicating some variability in problem areas. Given these factors, the 2021 Hyundai Kona presents an elevated reliability risk compared to its peers. Buyers should consider this moderate risk level when evaluating their options in this segment.
What you get in a 2021 Hyundai Kona report
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2021 Hyundai Kona — Frequently asked questions
Is the 2021 Hyundai Kona reliable?
The 2021 Hyundai Kona exhibits moderate reliability, falling slightly below the segment average with a score of 63 out of 100. This suggests a mixed reliability profile. The vehicle has one limited recall, indicating a relatively low level of manufacturer-initiated corrections. However, consumer complaints are notably concentrated in the engine category, which accounts for over half of the reported issues. This concentration could suggest a potential area of concern for buyers prioritizing engine reliability.
How many recalls does the 2021 Hyundai Kona have?
3 NHTSA safety recalls have been issued for the 2021 Hyundai Kona. A VIN check confirms whether any remain unrepaired on a specific vehicle.
What are the most common 2021 Hyundai Kona problems?
The most-reported 2021 Hyundai Kona problem areas are: Engine (51), Unknown Or Other (15), Power Train (13).
Should I run a VIN check on a 2021 Hyundai Kona?
Yes. A VIN report verifies title brands, odometer history, accident records, and recall completion on a specific 2021 Hyundai Kona, complementing the model-year reliability data on this page.