Hyundai Kona Problems: Common Issues and Repair Costs
The Hyundai Kona is a compact SUV available in petrol, hybrid, and electric models. It’s known for affordability, practicality, and tech features. However, it’s not without its faults. Here’s a complete list of common Hyundai Kona problems and their typical UK repair costs.
1. Hyundai Kona Electric Battery Fires and Recalls
Between 2018 and 2020, several Kona Electric models caught fire due to battery defects. Hyundai issued a global recall for around 77,000 vehicles to replace affected battery packs.
Repair cost:
- £0 under recall
- If out of warranty: £8,000 to £12,000 for battery replacement
2. Expensive EV Repairs Out of Warranty
Some Kona Electric owners have reported extremely high repair bills. One European owner was quoted over £7,200 for a non-warranty battery-related repair.
Typical cost:
- £7,000 to £10,000 depending on the issue
3. Tyre Wear on Electric Versions
Electric Konas are heavier than petrol models, leading to faster tyre wear. Owners report needing tyre replacements as early as 30,000 miles.
Repair cost:
- Tyres (set of four): £800 to £1,200
- Wheel alignment: £60 to £120
4. Infotainment and Camera Faults
Several owners have experienced touchscreen glitches, reversing camera issues, and random error messages. These are often resolved with software updates.
Repair cost:
- Software reset: £100 to £300
- Screen or module replacement: £300 to £600
5. Gearbox Hesitation on Hybrid Models
Hybrid versions of the Kona sometimes suffer from delayed gear changes or power delivery issues. These may be linked to transmission control modules or power relays.
Repair cost:
- Transmission control unit: £400 to £800
- Hybrid battery inspection or repair: £1,200 to £2,500
6. Kona N Fuel Pump Recall
Some petrol Kona N models built between 2019 and 2023 were recalled due to faulty fuel pumps that could cause engine stalls.
Repair cost:
- £0 under recall
7. 12V Battery Failures and Electrical Glitches
Like many modern cars, the Kona relies on a small 12V battery to power its control systems. Owners report early failures and intermittent electrical issues.
Repair cost:
- New 12V battery: £100 to £200
- Resetting control modules: £60 to £150
8. Suspension Wear and Steering Noises
After 50,000 to 70,000 miles, some Konas develop worn suspension components and noisy steering. Common parts affected include control arm bushings and anti-roll bar links.
Repair cost:
- Bushings or arms: £200 to £500 each
9. Routine Service Costs
Standard annual servicing is affordable for most Kona models. The electric version costs slightly more due to specialist coolant.
Service costs:
- Annual petrol/hybrid service: £120 to £180
- Electric version service with coolant: £185 to £220
Common Hyundai Kona Problems Summary
Problem | UK Repair Cost Estimate |
---|---|
EV battery recall (under warranty) | £0 |
EV battery repair (out of warranty) | £7,000 to £12,000 |
Tyre wear (set of 4) | £800 to £1,200 |
Screen or camera issues | £100 to £600 |
Hybrid gearbox module | £400 to £800 |
Fuel pump recall (Kona N) | £0 |
12V battery replacement | £100 to £200 |
Suspension component replacement | £200 to £500 per part |
Annual service (average) | £120 to £220 |
Real Owner Feedback
Owners on forums and Reddit have shared:
“My Kona EV repair was over €8,000 since it was out of warranty.”
“The infotainment screen turned pink and flickered. Dealer fixed it after a reset.”
“Tyres wore out quicker than I expected. Switched to a harder compound.”
Tips for Owners
- Check if your Kona is affected by any recalls and book it into a dealer if needed.
- Keep an eye on tyre wear, especially on EV and hybrid models.
- Update the infotainment software regularly to avoid bugs.
- Stick to recommended service intervals, especially for electric coolant systems.
- Inspect suspension components after 50,000 miles to avoid further damage.
Final Thoughts
The Hyundai Kona is a capable SUV, whether petrol, hybrid, or electric. It offers strong value, but certain issues can creep in—especially for EV owners out of warranty. Battery repairs, tyre wear, and occasional infotainment bugs are the most reported problems. Regular checks, recall tracking, and timely servicing go a long way in keeping running costs under control.
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