2020 Hyundai Kona recalls, problems & safety ratings
NHTSA lists 2 recalls for the 2020 Hyundai Kona and 162 owner complaints. The most-reported problem areas are engine (109), power train (20), unknown or other (17). It earned a 5-star overall NHTSA safety rating. EPA-rated fuel economy is 27–28 mpg combined, depending on configuration.
The 2020 ranks #8 of 9 Kona model years for fewest complaints (2018–2026), with more complaints than the average year (93). It has 2 recalls vs. an average of 1.4 per model year.
Recalls 2
Every recall NHTSA lists for the 2020 Hyundai Kona. Not every recall applies to every vehicle, so check your VIN. Recall repairs are free at a franchised dealer.
Engine
Problem: 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.
Risk: 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.
Fix: 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.
Equipment · other · labels
Problem: Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2020 Kona vehicles. The certification label may indicate incorrect Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR). As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) numbers 567, "Certification" and 110, "Tire Selection and Rims."
Risk: An incorrect GAWR could result in the vehicle being overloaded, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix: Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will install new label stickers displaying the correct GAWR over the affected areas of the certification label, free of charge. The recall began March 2, 2020. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 187.
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
By the numbers
Recent owner reports
My 2020 Kona 2.OL failed an oil test losing 2.5 quarts in 960 miles, stalled on the highway, and blows oil out the tailpipe. Hyundai (Case #43141313) is denying repair coverage because my VIN was excluded from Recall 21V301000. This recall needs to be expanded to include my VIN.
The contact owns a 2020 Hyundai Kona. The contact stated that while driving at 35 MPH, the accelerator pedal was depressed, but the vehicle hesitated, and there was white smoke coming from the exhaust. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic, where the contact was advised to take the vehicle to a dealer. The dealer was made aware of the failure. The contact referenced…
COMPONENT THAT FAILED: The engine short block piston rings (related to NHTSA recall 203) failed, causing severe cylinder wall scoring. The vehicle is currently located at an authorized Hyundai dealership and is available for manufacturer or NHTSA inspection. SAFETY RISK; The defective piston rings caused severe internal oil consumption, resulting in hydraulic oil starvation.…
Safety ratings
2020 Hyundai Kona SUV AWD
2020 Hyundai Kona SUV FWD
Fuel economy
EPA ratings for common configurations of the 2020 Hyundai Kona.
Kona AWD
Auto (AM7) · 4 cyl · 1.6 L · Turbo
Regular
Kona AWD
Auto (S6) · 4 cyl · 2.0 L
Regular
Kona Electric
Auto (A1)
Electricity
Other model years
Questions
How many recalls does the 2020 Hyundai Kona have?
NHTSA lists 2 recalls for the 2020 Hyundai Kona, most recently for engine (04/28/2021). 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 2020 Hyundai Kona?
Based on 162 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the most-reported areas are engine (109), power train (20), unknown or other (17).
Is the 2020 Hyundai Kona safe?
The 2020 Hyundai Kona earned a 5-star overall rating in NHTSA's 5-star safety ratings.
Is the 2020 a good year for the Hyundai Kona?
The 2020 ranks #8 of 9 Kona model years for fewest complaints (2018–2026), with more complaints than the average year (93). It has 2 recalls vs. an average of 1.4 per model year.
What gas mileage does the 2020 Hyundai Kona get?
EPA ratings for the 2020 Hyundai Kona range from 27 to 28 mpg combined, depending on configuration.
Own a 2020 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.