Legally reviewed by: Jessica Anvar Stotz, JD, MBA
Common problems: Some of the most common problems with the 2023 Hyundai Kona include electrical system malfunctions, powertrain issues, engine stalling, and brake problems.
Many owners have reported unexpected shutdowns, transmission failures, and loss of power, which can pose serious safety concerns.
One major recall has been issued for the 2023 Hyundai Kona (NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V-526) due to a fire risk caused by an overheating electric oil pump assembly.
This article provides a detailed breakdown of common issues, owner complaints, and recall information for the 2023 Hyundai Kona.
If your vehicle has persistent defects, you may have legal options under lemon law protections—read on to learn more.
Common 2023 Hyundai Kona Problems
- Electrical System: System Shutdowns; “Engine Turn Off” Message on Dashboard; Safety Feature Failures; Infotainment System Errors; Rodent Damage to Wiring
- Engine: Stalling; Engine Shutdown; Loss of Power; Oil Leaks; Overheating
- Powertrain: Loss of Power while Driving; Check Engine Light on due to Powertrain Issues; Risk of Vehicle Fire
Having Vehicle Problems?
Submit the form below to see if your vehicle qualifies for a lemon law claim.
2023 Hyundai Kona Electrical System Problems
Some 2023 Hyundai Kona drivers have reported their vehicle completely turning off while in motion, often accompanied by a dashboard message indicating an “engine turn off” warning.
Malfunctions in crucial safety features such as the horn, lane departure warning, and blind spot warning have also been reported, potentially increasing the risk of accidents.
Hyundai Kona drivers have also noted problems with the radio and other infotainment components, including unresponsive touchscreens and sudden system crashes.
Another issue involves rodent damage, with some reports indicating that rodents have chewed through wiring, leading to various electrical malfunctions that can affect the vehicle’s performance.
If you are experiencing any of these electrical issues, visiting your local Hyundai dealership for a thorough inspection and potential repairs may be necessary.
2023 Hyundai Konda Engine Problems
Some drivers have experienced their vehicle stalling or shutting down unexpectedly while driving, which can be both inconvenient and dangerous.
There have also been complaints about a sudden loss of power, particularly when accelerating or using cruise control, making it difficult to maintain speed or respond to traffic conditions.
Additionally, drivers have also reported oil leaks, even in brand-new vehicles, which could lead to long-term engine damage if not addressed.
Instances of engine overheating have also been noted, potentially increasing the risk of mechanical failure.
These problems can be serious, especially if they occur frequently. If you are experiencing any of these engine issues, having your vehicle inspected by a Hyundai dealer as soon as possible is recommended to diagnose and resolve the problem.
2023 Hyundai Kona Powertrain Problems
The 2023 Hyundai Kona may be prone to sudden loss of power while driving, which can be particularly dangerous in traffic or on highways.
There have also been reports of transmission failures, where the vehicle struggles to engage properly and stops accelerating, leaving drivers unable to maintain speed.
In addition, some owners have noticed their check engine light illuminating due to powertrain-related issues, often signaling underlying mechanical problems.
Unexpected engine shutdowns have also been reported, frequently accompanied by warning lights on the dashboard.
These issues can lead to safety hazards, making it essential to have the vehicle inspected if any symptoms arise.
On July 27, 2023, Hyundai issued NHTSA Campaign Number 23V-526, warning of a potential fire risk due to an overheating electric oil pump assembly.
The problem stems from damaged electrical components within the electronic controller for the Idle Stop & Go oil pump, which may cause overheating and increase the risk of a vehicle fire.
As a precaution, Hyundai advises owners to park their vehicles outside and away from structures until the necessary recall repairs are completed.
Dealerships will inspect and replace the electric oil pump controller if needed, free of charge. For more information, Hyundai customer service can be reached at 1-855-371-9460, and the recall reference number is 246.
Complaints from Hyundai Kona Drivers
“I have been having electrical issues since I bought this car. The radio screen goes black for no reason, the clock changes time on it’s own the Android auto only works intermittently. The tire lights come on and say there is 0 psi in the tires. Right now it says that 1 tire is low but the psi is the same in all 4 tires. I think this car was damaged during Hurricane Ian and the dealership still sold it to me. I have already brought it to the dealership to be fixed and it still has issues.”
“Car stopped accelerating on the highway and held me at 40mph. This happened twice. Then before being able to get it in for service while driving the car made a loud bang and came to a rolling stop again on the highway and the transmission control system alarm went off and the car would not move. Had to get towed off the highway and in a rental now. This was a brand new 2023 hyundai kona sel limited.”
“Initially I was super happy with my car, but the infotainment (radio and navigation) system malfunctions on a regular basis. It supposed to be under warranty but no one will do anything to fix it. I’ve taken it in several times and they just say to reset it. Then two days later all the problems start all over again. I don’t care for the automatic engine shutting off at lights. I know it can be turned off but it needs to be done every time you restart the car. I work in people homes so its constantly a nuisance. On an open highway it would not be annoying, but I work in the city.”
Enforcing Your Rights as a Car Owner
The lemon law is designed to protect consumers dealing with defective vehicles. If your 2023 Hyundai Kona has ongoing powertrain or electrical issues—such as unexpected shutdowns, loss of power, transmission failures, or fire risks associated with the recent recall—and remains under the manufacturer’s original warranty, you may have legal options.
If your car has been repeatedly presented for warranty repairs your vehicle could qualify as a lemon, potentially entitling you to compensation.
Generally, a vehicle may meet lemon law criteria if it has undergone two to four repair attempts for the same issue without a successful fix. If your Kona qualifies, you could be eligible for a refund of your vehicle-related expenses or a replacement vehicle.
Given that automakers often contest these claims, working with an experienced lemon law attorney can be crucial in ensuring your claim is properly handled and increasing your chances of success.
If your claim is successful, you may be reimbursed for costs such as your down payment, monthly payments, interest, taxes, rental fees, or registration renewals. Alternatively, you could receive a replacement vehicle of comparable value and features.
With both the repurchase and replacement options, the manufacturer is entitled to deduct a usage fee, which is a value for when the vehicle was first driven without issues causing it to be a lemon.
For 2023 Hyundai Kona owners affected by the fire risk recall (NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V-526), where an overheating electric oil pump assembly could lead to a potential vehicle fire, pursuing a lemon law claim may be a necessary step if Hyundai fails to provide a lasting fix.
In consumer-friendly states like California, lemon law cases come with additional advantages—if you win your case, the manufacturer is required to cover your attorney fees and related costs, making legal action more accessible for affected owners.
Get Back on Track with the Lemon Law Experts!
If your 2023 Hyundai Kona is experiencing persistent powertrain issues, electrical malfunctions, or safety risks linked to the fire hazard recall (NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V-526), taking action under the lemon law could be the best path forward.
A qualified lemon law attorney can handle the entire claims process—ensuring proper documentation, managing negotiations with Hyundai, and providing legal representation if needed.
In California, consumers who successfully pursue a lemon law claim are not responsible for attorney fees or costs, making legal assistance a risk-free option.
Since 2009, the Lemon Law Experts have helped clients recover millions in settlements from major automakers, including Hyundai, for defective vehicles.
If your 2023 Hyundai Kona has unresolved defects, don’t wait—contact the Lemon Law Experts at (877) 885-5366 or fill out an online form today for a free, no-obligation case evaluation.
