What are the most common problems with the 2023 Hyundai Kona?

The 2023 Kona's below-average reliability stems from frequent electrical and powertrain failures, often occurring under 10,000 miles.

How many recalls does the 2023 Hyundai Kona have?

The 2023 Hyundai Kona currently has 3 recalls on file. Review the full recall report to see affected components and available remedies.

Is the 2023 Hyundai Kona a good buy used?

Verdict: Proceed with caution. The 2023 Kona's below-average reliability stems from frequent electrical and powertrain failures, often occurring under 10,000 miles. Inspect the **electrical system** thoroughly, checking for infotainment glitches, power loss, and horn function. Pay close attention to the **powertrain**, specifically the transmission, for any signs of hesitation, sudden power loss, or stalling. A recall concerning the transmission oil pump overheating due to electrical component damage requires verification of repair. Despite reliability concerns, the Kona boasts a 5-star overall safety rating from NHTSA. Always verify service history, open recalls, and maintenance records before purchasing.

What maintenance costs should I expect for the 2023 Hyundai Kona?

Refer to the maintenance cost guide for interval schedules, DIY difficulty ratings, and typical repair cost ranges for the 2023 Hyundai Kona.

2023 Hyundai Kona Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated May 30, 2026Daniel Wilson

Overall Score

Our Verdict

Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

The 2023 Kona's below-average reliability stems from frequent electrical and powertrain failures, often occurring under 10,000 miles.
Inspect the electrical system thoroughly, checking for infotainment glitches, power loss, and horn function.
Pay close attention to the powertrain, specifically the transmission, for any signs of hesitation, sudden power loss, or stalling.
A recall concerning the transmission oil pump overheating due to electrical component damage requires verification of repair.

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Overview

2023 Hyundai Kona

The 2023 Hyundai Kona offers a compact SUV package with a 5-star NHTSA safety rating, but used car shoppers should approach with caution. Its primary concerns revolve around documented electrical system and powertrain issues that can manifest early in the vehicle's life. Fuel economy is respectable at 23 MPG combined, but the potential for costly repairs due to its reliability record warrants careful consideration.

Critical Failure Risk

Widespread electrical issues reported, including infotainment screen malfunctions, intermittent power loss, and non-functional horns. These can manifest early in the vehicle's life.

Early detection can help you avoid a $500-$4,000 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Recall Campaigns3

Service Bulletins5

Campaign counts apply to this model year, not your VIN's repair status. Check your VIN with NHTSA.

Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

Electrical System17

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency

Combined

MPG

City

MPG

Highway

MPG

Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

Practicality

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Budget-conscious shoppers prioritizing a high safety score in a compact SUV.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Drivers seeking a trouble-free ownership experience with minimal repair concerns.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2023 Hyundai Kona Reliability Analysis

Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type: Premium
Seating Capacity: 5
Transmission: Automatic
Drivetrain: Front-Wheel Drive
Body Style: Suv
MSRP Range: $22,140 - $34,950
EPA Combined MPG: 23

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Most Common Issues

1. Electrical System

Most reported

Usage: 17 reports

2. Powertrain

Usage: 9 reports

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brake System - Inspect Exhaust System

Est. shop cost: $100 - $200

7,500 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist

Complete maintenance schedule (5 service intervals)

Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context

Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it

Full specs and trim-level context

3 recall campaign details & remedy notes

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FAQ

Is the 2023 Hyundai Kona reliable?

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2023 Hyundai Kona is 7.5/10. Reliability score is 7.5/10. NHTSA recalls: 3. Owner complaints: 83.

How practical is the 2023 Hyundai Kona for daily use?

Practicality score is 5.9/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 23 MPG. Seating capacity is 5. 4 passenger doors are listed. Boot capacity is 544 litres.

What is the overall score for the 2023 Hyundai Kona?

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2023 Hyundai Kona is 7.0/10. Overall score is 7.0/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.7/10. Practicality 5.9/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2023 Hyundai Kona?

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brake System - Inspect Exhaust System at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $500 - $900. Repair prediction highlight: Electrical System (typical at 15,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $100 • Max: $1,500+).

What is the MSRP range for the 2023 Hyundai Kona?

MSRP range is $22,140 - $34,950.

What engine is in the 2023 Hyundai Kona?

Engine specs list 4 • 2.0.

What transmission does the 2023 Hyundai Kona use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2023 Hyundai Kona, transmission is Automatic. The paired drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive.

Does the 2023 Kona require Premium gas?

Manufacturer fuel recommendation: Premium.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2023 Hyundai Kona?

EPA combined estimate is 23 MPG.

What kind of powertrain does the 2023 Hyundai Kona use?

Powertrain classification is Battery Electric (BEV).

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2023 Hyundai Kona?

16 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.

What is the fuel economy range for the 2023 Hyundai Kona?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2023 Hyundai Kona, fuel economy range is 27-35 mpg combined.

How many people fit in a 2023 Hyundai Kona?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2023 Hyundai Kona, seating capacity is 5.

What body style is the 2023 Hyundai Kona?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2023 Hyundai Kona, body style is suv.

What drivetrain does the 2023 Hyundai Kona use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2023 Hyundai Kona, drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic.

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2023 Hyundai Kona?

NHTSA ratings: Overall 5/5 • Frontal 5/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.

What are the most common electrical system problems on the 2023 Hyundai Kona?

Top complaint category: electrical system (17 reports, 20.5% of complaints).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2023 Hyundai Kona?

This model year has 3 official safety campaigns listed.

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2023 Hyundai Kona?

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2023 Honda HR-V and 2023 Mazda CX-30.