MotorCaliberNHTSA Safety Index

NHTSA // SAFETY RECORD

2019 Hyundai Kona Electric

Recall and complaint safety record from NHTSA. This configuration has not been crash-tested.

3Recalls
54Complaints
0Investigations
ABOUT THE HYUNDAI KONA ELECTRIC

The Hyundai Kona Electric is a subcompact electric SUV that has carved out a practical niche for urban commuters and eco-minded families since its 2019 debut. Positioned as an affordable, right-sized EV alternative to larger crossovers, it competes in a crowded but fast-growing segment. Its safety record, however, deserves a careful look before any shopper signs on the dotted line.

VERDICT

NHTSA has not crash-tested the 2019 Hyundai Kona Electric, but it carries a park-outside or do-not-drive recall, which is the most serious class of safety campaign. Treat the recall status below as urgent and confirm your VIN with NHTSA.

WHO IT IS FOR
  • shoppers who want the full federal safety picture in one place
WHAT REVIEWERS SAY

Reviewers generally praise the Kona Electric for its composed ride, user-friendly technology, and practical packaging for city driving. Most consider it a competitive and likable entry in the subcompact EV segment. However, reviewers have consistently noted that prospective buyers should pay close attention to the model's recall history, particularly concerns tied to the battery system.

NHTSA // RECALLSRecall record

Park outside / do not drive This vehicle has a recall advising owners to park away from structures or stop driving until repaired. Confirm your VIN at nhtsa.gov.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:PROPULSION SYSTEM:TRACTION BATTERY21V127000

Risk: An electrical short in the Li-ion battery increases the risk of a fire.

Remedy: Owners are advised to park their vehicles outside and away from structures until the interim action is complete. Hyundai will notify owners, and as an interim action, owners have the option to follow provided instructions to perform a battery update through the vehicle's infotainment system or request a Hyundai dealer to provide the update. Once parts are available, dealers will inspect the Batter

Reported 2021-03-01

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:POWER ASSIST:ELECTRIC:CONTROL MODULE:SOFTWARE20V748000

Risk: Reduced braking power could lengthen the distance required to stop the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy: Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will update the IEB software, free of charge. The recall began January 25, 2021. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 199.

Reported 2020-12-01

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:PROPULSION SYSTEM:TRACTION BATTERY:MANAGEMENT SYSTEM/ENERGY CONTROL MODULE (BMS/BECM):SOFTWARE20V630000

Risk: An electrical short in the Li-ion battery increases the risk of a fire.

Remedy: Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will update the Battery Management System (BMS) software and inspect the Li-ion battery, replacing it if necessary, free of charge. Owners are advised to park their vehicles outside and away from structures until the repair is complete. The recall began November 13, 2020. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for thi

Reported 2020-10-13

NHTSA // COMPLAINTSOwner complaints

54 owner complaints on file. These are unverified allegations reported to NHTSA.

2reported crash
2reported fire
1reported injuries
0reported deaths
Most-reported systemsElectrical System 42Fuel/Propulsion System 10Engine 5Power Train 5Service Brakes 4Unknown Or Other 4

Other Kona Electric years

Last verified 2026-07-02. Sources: NHTSA SafetyRatings, recallsByVehicle, complaintsByVehicle for Hyundai Kona Electric 2019. Methodology · Disclosure