2022 Hyundai Kona

The 2022 Hyundai Kona is a subcompact SUV known for its stylish design, agile handling, and generous features for its class. It comes in several trims with two primary engine choices. The standard engine is a 2.0-liter inline-4 producing 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque, paired with a CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission). An optional, more potent engine is a 1.6-liter turbocharged inline-4 generating 195 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque, matched with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT). Many owners appreciate the Kona’s fuel efficiency, ease of parking, and user-friendly infotainment system. Conversely, some criticisms often revolve around the limited rear passenger space and the occasionally firm ride, especially on models with larger wheels.

Electric Motor

Electric Motor

• Reduced Battery Range in Cold Weather
  • Description/Symptoms: Significant reduction in the advertised battery range when operating in cold weather conditions. Owners report losing 20-40% of their range in temperatures below freezing.
  • Solution: There is no permanent fix for this issue as it is inherent to the lithium-ion battery technology. Owners are advised to pre-condition the battery before driving and to use seat heaters instead of cabin heat to conserve energy.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: N/A
  • Recalls: None Found
• Unexpected Acceleration
  • Description/Symptoms: There have been isolated reports of the 2022 Kona EV experiencing sudden and unintended acceleration. This has been reported during low-speed maneuvers and while attempting to park.
  • Solution: This issue may require a software update to recalibrate the vehicle’s acceleration mapping. Inspection of the accelerator pedal assembly and sensor may also be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: N/A (typically covered under warranty)
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Freezing/Rebooting
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment screen occasionally freezes, becomes unresponsive, or spontaneously reboots while driving. This affects navigation, audio, and other connected services.
  • Solution: A software update is often needed to resolve this issue. In some cases, the head unit may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Software update - N/A, Head Unit Replacement - $500 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Backup Camera Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The backup camera intermittently fails to display an image, or displays a distorted image.
  • Solution: Check the camera wiring and connections. If the wiring is intact, the camera unit may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• HVAC Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: The heating and air conditioning system may blow hot air when set to cold, or vice-versa. Issues with the blower motor speed.
  • Solution: Replacing the entire HVAC Unit
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800-$1200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rear Tail Light Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Owners have reported cracking in the plastic housing of the rear tail lights.
  • Solution: Replacement of the affected tail light assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $350+ per tail light
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Seat Upholstery Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Premature wear and tear on the seat upholstery, including fabric pilling or seam separation, particularly on higher-use areas like the driver’s seat.
  • Solution: The upholstery may need to be repaired or replaced. Seat covers can be used to prevent further damage.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Repair $100 - $300+, Replacement $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rattling Noises
  • Description/Symptoms: Various rattling noises emanating from the dashboard or door panels, particularly when driving on rough roads.
  • Solution: Identifying and securing the source of the rattle, which may involve adding padding or tightening fasteners.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+ (depending on the source and complexity)
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2022 Hyundai Kona presents a mix of potential issues. The most significant issue relates to the electric motor’s range in cold weather, an inherent limitation of current EV technology. Electrical gremlins, such as infotainment glitches and backup camera failures, are also present. While generally reliable, owners should be aware of these potential problems. Repair costs vary widely, but most fall within reasonable ranges, especially when issues are covered under warranty.