IsItAGoodCar

Common Problems with the
2018–2020 Hyundai Kona Electric

We've identified 3 known issues that can affect the 2018–2020 Hyundai Kona Electric. 2 of these are serious faults that could be expensive to repair.

3
Known Issues
2
Serious
1
Moderate
0
Minor

The 2018–2020 period has 2 more issues than the Hyundai Kona Electric average across all year periods.

All Known Issues

Reduction Gear Noise

SeriousGearbox & Transmission

A "clicking" or "tapping" sound that increases with speed can indicate a problem with the reduction gearbox or motor bearings.

Estimated cost: £1,000–£3,000 (Warranty)Affects: 2018–2022Often appears around: 20,000–50,000 miles

Typical symptoms

  • •Tapping sound when accelerating or decelerating
  • •Whirring noise at motorway speeds

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Drive with windows down near a wall to listen for reflected noise

High-voltage battery fire risk (recall)

SeriousElectrics & Electronics

Approximately 77,000 Kona Electrics worldwide were recalled due to battery cells manufactured at LG Energy Solution's Nanjing plant. A folded anode tab could allow internal short-circuiting and fire risk. Over a dozen fires were reported globally. Hyundai replaces the entire battery pack free of charge under recall — cars built with SK Innovation batteries at the Czech Republic plant were not affected.

Most affected: 64 kWh battery models built before March 2020

Estimated cost: £0 (Recall)Affects: 2018–2020Often appears around: Any; fire risk is independent of mileage

Typical symptoms

  • •Recall notice or dealer letter
  • •Battery warning light on dashboard
  • •In extreme cases, smoke or fire from under the vehicle

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓VIN recall check for codes 162 and SSC-200
  • ✓Confirm battery replacement or BMS update has been completed
  • ✓Cars with replacement packs actually benefit from newer cell chemistry

12V auxiliary battery drain

ModerateElectrics & Electronics

The small 12V battery that powers ancillary systems can drain within days of inactivity, leaving the car completely dead despite a full main battery. The standby draw depletes the 44Ah battery quickly, and repeated deep discharges shorten its lifespan. A BMS software update (TSB 24-01-090H) addresses the worst drains, but some owners still carry a jump pack.

Most affected: All Kona Electric models

Estimated cost: £90–£250Affects: 2018–2023Often appears around: Any; most common after 2 years

Typical symptoms

  • •Car completely unresponsive after 2-3 days parked
  • •Dashboard warning: "Battery discharge warning"
  • •Need to jump-start despite full HV battery

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Age and health of the 12V battery
  • ✓Whether BMS software update has been applied
  • ✓Evidence of repeated 12V replacements indicating parasitic draw

Buying Tips for the 2018 Hyundai Kona Electric

  • ✓CRITICAL: Check the recall history for the "High Voltage Battery Replacement".
  • ✓Listen for a "clicking" or "tapping" sound from the front motor/gearbox area (reduction gear issue).
  • ✓Verify the 12V battery health, as "vampire drain" can occur.
2021–2022 Hyundai Kona Electric

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Other Hyundai Kona Electric Year Periods

2018–20202021–202220232024

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