IsItAGoodCar

Common Problems with the
2018–2022 Hyundai Kona (Petrol/Hybrid)

We've identified 3 known issues that can affect the 2018–2022 Hyundai Kona (Petrol/Hybrid). None are considered critical, but they're worth knowing about before you buy.

3
Known Issues
0
Serious
3
Moderate
0
Minor

The 2018–2022 period has 2 more issues than the Hyundai Kona (Petrol/Hybrid) average across all year periods.

All Known Issues

DCT Shudder & Hesitation

ModerateGearbox & Transmission

The dual-clutch transmission can be jerky at low speeds or shudder when pulling away, particularly if the car has been "crept" in traffic.

Estimated cost: £500–£1,500Affects: 2017–2022Often appears around: 20,000+ miles

Typical symptoms

  • •Jerky take-off
  • •Hesitation when merging
  • •Vibration in stop-start traffic

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Test drive in heavy traffic
  • ✓Check for TCU software updates

GPF (Gasoline Particulate Filter) Clogging

ModerateExhaust & Emissions

Models with a GPF (mostly post-2018) can suffer from clogging if driven only on short, low-speed trips, leading to warning lights and reduced power.

Estimated cost: £0 (Regeneration) to £1,000 (Replacement)Affects: 2018–2024Often appears around: Any

Typical symptoms

  • •Check exhaust system warning
  • •Reduced engine performance

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Ask about typical driving style (motorway vs city)
  • ✓Check for "Active Regeneration" history

12V battery drain and flat battery

ModerateElectrics & Electronics

The small 12V auxiliary battery can drain when the car is left standing for several days, particularly if Bluelink or third-party apps keep waking the systems overnight. A flat 12V leaves the car completely dead despite a full main battery.

Estimated cost: £100–£250Affects: 2017–2024Often appears around: Any; more common after 2 years of age

Typical symptoms

  • •Car completely dead after standing
  • •Dashboard flickers or rapid clicking from relays
  • •"12V battery low" warning on dashboard

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Age and health of the 12V battery
  • ✓Whether third-party apps (e.g., Optiwatt) are installed
  • ✓Dealer records for BMS software updates

Buying Tips for the 2018 Hyundai Kona (Petrol/Hybrid)

  • ✓On Hybrid and 1.6T models, test the 7-speed DCT for smoothness in traffic and on hills.
  • ✓Check for "Check Exhaust System" messages, which can indicate a clogged Gasoline Particulate Filter (GPF).
  • ✓Check the infotainment screen for any "ghost touching" or dead zones.
  • ✓Inspect the rear suspension on AWD models for any signs of hard use or towing wear.
2017 Hyundai Kona (Petrol/Hybrid)2023–2024 Hyundai Kona (Petrol/Hybrid)

Browse 2018–2022 Hyundai Kona (Petrol/Hybrid) in our Directory

View MOT history, registration data, and reliability scores for 2018–2022 Hyundai Kona (Petrol/Hybrid) vehicles.

View 2018–2022 Directory

Other Hyundai Kona (Petrol/Hybrid) Year Periods

20172018–20222023–2024

Looking at a specific 2018 Hyundai Kona (Petrol/Hybrid)?

Enter the registration number to check its full MOT history, outstanding finance, write-off status, and more.

Free Vehicle Check