2018 Hyundai Kona

Introduction to the 2018 Hyundai Kona

The 2018 Hyundai Kona is a subcompact crossover SUV that has gained popularity due to its stylish design, versatile interior, and affordable price. It comes standard with a 147-horsepower 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and a six-speed automatic transmission. Additional engine options include a 175-horsepower 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder and a 201-horsepower 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder. The Kona is also available with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission or a six-speed manual transmission. Drivers appreciate the Kona’s sporty handling, comfortable ride, and user-friendly infotainment system. However, some owners have reported issues with certain components.

Engine

2.0L Four-Cylinder

• Premature Engine Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Catastrophic engine failure occurs prematurely, often before 100,000 miles. Symptoms include knocking noises, loss of power, and engine seizure.
  • Solution: Engine replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $5,000 - $10,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

1.6L Turbocharged Four-Cylinder

• Turbocharger Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: The turbocharger fails prematurely, leading to a loss of boost pressure and decreased engine performance. Symptoms include reduced power, increased fuel consumption, and a whistling or whining noise.
  • Solution: Turbocharger replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

2.0L Four-Cylinder

• Six-Speed Automatic Transmission:
  • Delayed or Rough Shifting:
    • Description/Symptoms: The transmission experiences delayed or rough gear shifts, especially when accelerating or decelerating.
    • Solution: Transmission fluid flush or replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Transmission Failure:
    • Description/Symptoms: Complete transmission failure occurs prematurely, often before 100,000 miles. Symptoms include slipping gears, grinding noises, and inability to shift properly.
    • Solution: Transmission replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $5,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

1.6L Turbocharged Four-Cylinder

• Seven-Speed Dual-Clutch Automatic Transmission:
  • Clutch Wear:
    • Description/Symptoms: The clutches within the transmission wear prematurely, leading to slipping and difficulty shifting gears. Symptoms include shuddering, hesitation, and gear slippage.
    • Solution: Clutch replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,500
  • Transmission Control Unit Failure:
    • Description/Symptoms: The transmission control unit (TCU) malfunctions, leading to erratic shifting or transmission failure. Symptoms include sudden gear changes, loss of power, and dashboard warning lights.
    • Solution: TCU replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,000
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Suspension Noise:
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive noise or banging sounds from the front suspension, especially over rough roads.
  • Solution: Inspection and replacement of worn or damaged suspension components, such as struts, springs, or control arms.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Electrical System Malfunction:
  • Description/Symptoms: Random electrical issues occur, such as flickering lights, battery drain, or failure of electronic components.
  • Solution: Diagnosis and repair of electrical faults, which may require replacing faulty wiring, fuses, or modules.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Headlight Condensation:
  • Description/Symptoms: Moisture accumulates inside the headlight assemblies, causing condensation or fogging.
  • Solution: Replacement of headlight assemblies or sealing gaps in the housing.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000 per headlight
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Window Switch Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Power window switches malfunction, causing windows to become inoperable or move erratically.
  • Solution: Replacement of faulty window switches.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found
• Infotainment System Glitches:
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system experiences glitches, such as freezing, touchscreen unresponsiveness, or audio issues.
  • Solution: Software updates or replacement of hardware components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2018 Hyundai Kona has received positive feedback for its design and features. However, some owners have reported issues with certain components, including the engine, transmission, suspension, and electrical system. The severity and cost of these issues vary, with some being minor inconveniences and others requiring significant repairs. It is important to research potential issues and consider a vehicle’s history before making a purchase.