NHTSA & EPA data · updated November 2, 2026

2018 Hyundai Kona recalls, problems & safety ratings

Quick answer

NHTSA lists 0 recalls for the 2018 Hyundai Kona and 75 owner complaints. The most-reported problem areas are engine (42), unknown or other (25), power train (11). EPA-rated fuel economy is 27–30 mpg combined, depending on configuration.

The 2018 ranks #5 of 9 Kona model years for fewest complaints (2018–2026), with fewer complaints than the average year (93). It has 0 recalls vs. an average of 1.4 per model year.

Free. Shows whether a recall applies, plus specs, problems and ratings for your exact vehicle.

Recalls 0

Every recall NHTSA lists for the 2018 Hyundai Kona. Not every recall applies to every vehicle, so check your VIN. Recall repairs are free at a franchised dealer.

No recalls are on file with NHTSA for the 2018 Hyundai Kona.

Common problems

From complaints owners filed with NHTSA. Complaints aren't verified, but patterns across hundreds of owners point to known weak spots.

Most-reported problem areas

Engine42
Unknown or other25
Power train11
Electrical system8
Fuel/propulsion system4
Vehicle speed control3
Engine and engine cooling3
Forward collision avoidance3

By the numbers

75owner complaints filed
9involved a crash
10involved a fire
12injuries reported

Recent owner reports

09/19/2026 · Engine

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 to this car being a leased car and it will not run anymore.

07/21/2026 · Power train,vehicle speed control,engine

I purchased a 2018 Hyundai Kona, and it has had one major issue after another. It burns an excessive amount of oil, the engine misfires, and now the turbocharger is failing. I’ve already spent approximately $2,300 repairing the air conditioner and engine, and I can’t afford thousands more in repairs.

07/13/2026 · Engine

The contact owns a 2018 Hyundai Kona. The contact stated that while driving approximately 20 MPH, there was a loud clunking sound coming from the engine bay, followed by grinding gear sounds. The vehicle lost drive power, causing the driver to coast over to the side of the road, where the vehicle eventually stalled. The vehicle was towed to a certified mechanic who diagnosed th…

Safety ratings

2018 Hyundai Kona SUV FWD

OverallNot rated
Frontal crashNot rated
Side crashNot rated
RolloverNot rated

2018 Hyundai Kona SUV AWD

OverallNot rated
Frontal crashNot rated
Side crashNot rated
RolloverNot rated

Fuel economy

EPA ratings for common configurations of the 2018 Hyundai Kona.

Kona AWD

Auto (AM7) · 4 cyl · 1.6 L · Turbo

26city
29hwy
27combined

Regular

Kona AWD

Auto (S6) · 4 cyl · 2.0 L

25city
30hwy
27combined

Regular

Kona FWD

Auto (AM7) · 4 cyl · 1.6 L · Turbo

28city
32hwy
30combined

Regular

Kona FWD

Auto (S6) · 4 cyl · 2.0 L

27city
33hwy
30combined

Regular

Other model years

Compare every Hyundai Kona year

Questions

How many recalls does the 2018 Hyundai Kona have?

NHTSA lists 0 recalls for the 2018 Hyundai Kona. Recall repairs are free at a franchised dealer. Enter your VIN to check whether a recall applies to your vehicle.

What are the most common problems with the 2018 Hyundai Kona?

Based on 75 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the most-reported areas are engine (42), unknown or other (25), power train (11).

Is the 2018 Hyundai Kona safe?

NHTSA hasn't published an overall 5-star rating for the 2018 Hyundai Kona.

Is the 2018 a good year for the Hyundai Kona?

The 2018 ranks #5 of 9 Kona model years for fewest complaints (2018–2026), with fewer complaints than the average year (93). It has 0 recalls vs. an average of 1.4 per model year.

What gas mileage does the 2018 Hyundai Kona get?

EPA ratings for the 2018 Hyundai Kona range from 27 to 30 mpg combined, depending on configuration.

Own a 2018 Hyundai Kona in South Carolina?

Our mobile mechanics diagnose and fix the problems above at your home, office or fleet lot in Lexington, Columbia and the Midlands, with dealer-grade scan tools.

Related vehicles

Sources: NHTSA recalls, complaints and 5-Star Safety Ratings APIs; EPA fueleconomy.gov. Data retrieved November 2, 2026. NHTSA model names used: KONA, Kona.

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