2021 Hyundai Kona recalls, problems & safety ratings
NHTSA lists 1 recall for the 2021 Hyundai Kona and 147 owner complaints. The most-reported problem areas are engine (85), unknown or other (26), electrical system (21). It earned a 5-star overall NHTSA safety rating. EPA-rated fuel economy is about 27 mpg combined.
The 2021 ranks #7 of 9 Kona model years for fewest complaints (2018–2026), with more complaints than the average year (93). It has 1 recall vs. an average of 1.4 per model year.
Recalls 1
Every recall NHTSA lists for the 2021 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.
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
The contact owns a 2021 Hyundai Kona Electric. The contact stated that since purchasing the vehicle, an abnormal rumble sound was heard that grew progressively louder. Additionally, while accelerating from a complete stop, the vehicle was significantly sluggish. The failure recurred while driving at 30 MPH, requiring the driver to pull over to the shoulder of the road. Upon shu…
My 2021 Kona has undergone five separate oil consumption checks. The engine is depleting oil at an abnormal rate, creating a clear risk of sudden catastrophic engine failure and highway stalling. Dealership service personnel have repeatedly dismissed consumption data despite documented top-offs between 500 and 1,000 miles. Furthermore, this vehicle has already required an entir…
All 4 fuel injectors failed. They were replaced but the check engine light came back on. Crank shaft sensor was then replaced and now the check engine light is back on. Driving the car waiting for something to fail is not safe
Safety ratings
2021 Hyundai Kona SUV FWD
2021 Hyundai Kona SUV AWD
Fuel economy
EPA ratings for common configurations of the 2021 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 2021 Hyundai Kona have?
NHTSA lists 1 recall for the 2021 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 2021 Hyundai Kona?
Based on 147 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the most-reported areas are engine (85), unknown or other (26), electrical system (21).
Is the 2021 Hyundai Kona safe?
The 2021 Hyundai Kona earned a 5-star overall rating in NHTSA's 5-star safety ratings.
Is the 2021 a good year for the Hyundai Kona?
The 2021 ranks #7 of 9 Kona model years for fewest complaints (2018–2026), with more complaints than the average year (93). It has 1 recall vs. an average of 1.4 per model year.
What gas mileage does the 2021 Hyundai Kona get?
The 2021 Hyundai Kona is EPA-rated at about 27 mpg combined.
Own a 2021 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 EV, Kona.