The 2021 Hyundai Kona has experienced several notable problems, primarily with its engine and transmission. The 2.0L engine has been subject to a major recall due to improperly machined piston oil rings, leading to excessive oil consumption and potential engine failure. Symptoms include engine knocking, reduced performance, and check engine light illumination. The CVT transmission in some models has shown issues like rough shifting and hesitation during acceleration.
To address these issues, owners should respond promptly to recall notices, follow the recommended maintenance schedule, and have any unusual symptoms inspected by a qualified Hyundai technician.
Engine Issues
The 2021 Hyundai Kona has experienced some significant engine problems, particularly with the 2.0L naturally aspirated engine.
The most serious issue is related to improperly machined piston oil rings, which can cause excessive oil consumption and potential engine failure. This problem led to a major recall affecting approximately 275,000 Hyundai vehicles in the United States, including 2021 Kona models with the 2.0L engine.
Symptoms of this issue include:
- Excessive oil consumption
- Engine knocking or ticking noises
- Reduced performance
- Check engine light illumination
- In severe cases, engine stalling or complete failure
If you suspect your Kona is affected by this problem, contact your Hyundai dealer immediately. The recall involves replacing the entire engine assembly under warranty.
Transmission Problems
Transmission issues have been reported in both the CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) used with the 2.0L engine and the 7-speed dual-clutch transmission paired with the 1.6L turbo engine.
Common transmission problems include:
- Rough shifting
- Hesitation during acceleration
- Jerking or lurching when changing gears
- Complete transmission failure (in rare cases)
For CVT-equipped models, Hyundai recommends changing the transmission fluid every 50,000 miles to prevent issues. If you experience transmission problems, have your vehicle inspected by a Hyundai technician as soon as possible.
In early 2024, Hyundai issued a recall for some Konas built between 2020 and 2022 to address problems with the eight-speed dual-clutch transmission. This issue could cause a loss of drive power, creating potentially dangerous situations on the road.
Electrical System Issues
The 2021 Kona has experienced various electrical problems, primarily related to its infotainment system and safety sensors.
Infotainment system issues include:
- Screen freezing or crashing
- Slow response to commands
- Bluetooth connectivity problems
- Apple CarPlay or Android Auto malfunctions
Many of these issues can be resolved through software updates. If you’re experiencing persistent problems, consult your Hyundai dealer about the latest available updates for your vehicle.
Safety sensor malfunctions have also been reported, affecting systems such as:
- Blind spot monitoring
- Forward collision warning
- Lane keeping assist
These issues often manifest as warning lights on the dashboard or inconsistent operation of the affected systems. In some cases, recalibration of the sensors or replacement of faulty components may be necessary.
Brake System Concerns
While not as common as other issues, some 2021 Kona owners have reported brake-related problems. These include:
- Soft or spongy brake pedal feel
- Reduced braking power
- Complete loss of braking in rare instances
These issues could be caused by a faulty brake booster or other brake system components. If you experience any changes in brake performance, have your vehicle inspected immediately, as brake problems can pose serious safety risks.
It’s worth noting that brake issues are more prevalent in the Kona Electric model, which uses an integrated electronic brake system. This system can sometimes detect false brake sensor signals, leading to inconsistent braking performance.
Fuel System Problems
Some 2021 Kona owners have reported issues with the fuel system, including:
- Difficulty refueling (pump shutting off prematurely)
- Inaccurate fuel gauge readings
- Fuel economy lower than advertised
The refueling issue is often caused by a problem with the evaporative emissions system, specifically the charcoal canister or related valves. This can usually be resolved by a dealer service.
Inaccurate fuel gauge readings may be due to a faulty fuel level sensor. If you’re experiencing this issue, keep track of your mileage and fuel consumption to avoid running out of gas unexpectedly.
Suspension and Steering Issues
While the Kona generally offers good handling, some owners have reported suspension and steering-related problems:
- Excessive road noise or vibration
- Uneven tire wear
- Steering wheel vibration at highway speeds
These issues could be caused by:
- Misaligned wheels
- Worn suspension components
- Unbalanced tires
Regular tire rotations and wheel alignments can help prevent many of these problems. If you notice any unusual noises or vibrations, have your vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic.
Interior Quality Concerns
While not a mechanical issue, some owners have expressed disappointment with the interior quality of the 2021 Kona, particularly in lower trim levels. Common complaints include:
- Excessive use of hard plastics
- Uncomfortable seats on long trips
- Limited cargo space compared to competitors
These issues are largely subjective and may not be a concern for all owners. However, they’re worth considering if you’re in the market for a Kona, especially if interior comfort and quality are high priorities for you.
Exterior and Paint Issues
Some 2021 Kona owners have reported issues with the exterior finish and paint quality:
- Paint chipping or peeling, particularly on the hood and roof
- Rust spots developing prematurely
- Poor fitment of body panels, leading to uneven gaps
If you notice any paint or rust issues within the warranty period, contact your Hyundai dealer. Many of these problems should be covered under the vehicle’s paint warranty.
Reliability and Maintenance Tips
To maximize the reliability of your 2021 Hyundai Kona and minimize potential problems:
- Follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule
- Address any warning lights or unusual noises promptly
- Use high-quality fuel and oil as specified in the owner’s manual
- Keep your vehicle clean, especially in areas that use road salt in winter
- Park in covered areas when possible to protect the paint and interior
Regular maintenance items for the 2021 Kona include:
- Oil changes: Every 7,500 miles or 12 months for normal driving conditions
- Tire rotations: Every 7,500 miles
- Air filter replacement: Every 30,000 miles
- Spark plug replacement: Every 97,500 miles for the 2.0L engine, 42,000 miles for the 1.6L turbo
- Transmission fluid change: Every 50,000 miles for CVT models
Warranty Information
The 2021 Hyundai Kona comes with one of the best warranty packages in the industry:
- 5-year/60,000-mile new vehicle limited warranty
- 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty
- 7-year/unlimited-mile anti-perforation warranty
- 5-year/unlimited-mile roadside assistance
This comprehensive warranty coverage can provide peace of mind and financial protection against many of the issues discussed in this guide. However, it’s important to note that warranty coverage may be voided if the vehicle is not properly maintained or if aftermarket modifications are made.
Recalls and Technical Service Bulletins
As of mid-2024, there have been several recalls issued for the 2021 Hyundai Kona:
- Engine replacement due to faulty piston rings (2.0L engine)
- Transmission software update for dual-clutch models
- Fuel pump replacement due to potential failure
In addition to recalls, Hyundai has issued numerous Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) for the 2021 Kona. These are not recalls but rather instructions for dealers on how to address specific issues. Common TSBs for the 2021 Kona include:
- Updates to the infotainment system software
- Procedures for addressing transmission shift quality issues
- Fixes for various electrical system problems
To check if your vehicle is affected by any recalls or TSBs, you can enter your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website or contact your local Hyundai dealer.
Comparing the 2021 Kona to Other Model Years
When considering the 2021 Hyundai Kona, it’s useful to compare it to other model years:
- 2018-2020 models: These earlier Konas share many components with the 2021 model and may have similar issues. However, they missed out on some of the updates and refinements made for 2021.
- 2022 and newer models: The Kona received a facelift for 2022, with updated styling and some mechanical improvements. These newer models may have addressed some of the issues present in the 2021 model.
In general, the 2021 model represents a middle ground – it benefits from some refinements over earlier models but doesn’t have all the updates of the facelifted version.
Alternatives to the 2021 Hyundai Kona
If the potential problems with the 2021 Kona are concerning, you might consider some alternatives in the subcompact SUV segment:
- Mazda CX-30: Known for superior handling and a more upscale interior
- Honda HR-V: Offers excellent reliability and a spacious interior for its size
- Toyota C-HR: Provides Toyota’s reputation for reliability, though with less power than the Kona
- Subaru Crosstrek: Offers standard all-wheel drive and good off-road capability
Each of these alternatives has its own strengths and weaknesses, so it’s worth test driving several options to find the best fit for your needs.
Conclusion: Is the 2021 Hyundai Kona a Good Choice?
Despite the problems outlined in this guide, the 2021 Hyundai Kona remains a popular choice in the subcompact SUV segment. It offers a good balance of features, performance, and value, especially in higher trim levels.
With proper maintenance and care, many 2021 Kona owners report satisfaction with their vehicles. However, if reliability is your top priority, you may want to consider some of the alternatives mentioned or look at newer Kona models that may have addressed some of these issues.