Hyundai Kona SX2 Electric

This is one of the most widely reported issues on the 2024-2025 Kona Electric. The multimedia keyboard can remain active after the car is switched off, continuously draining the small 12V auxiliary battery. Hyundai issued TSB 24-01-090H to address this, covering vehicles built between June 2023 and September 2024. The software patch should be applied at delivery or the first service. Symptoms include a completely dead car that cannot be unlocked or started, typically after sitting overnight or for a few days. If the 12V battery has been repeatedly deep-discharged, it may need replacement (€150-250 for the battery itself, plus €50-100 labor). Some owners also report that not fully closing the rear hatch prevents the main battery from recharging the 12V system. Keeping the car plugged into Level 1 or Level 2 charging when parked for extended periods helps, as the DC-DC converter then keeps the 12V topped up.

Multiple owners report the main infotainment screen going completely black while driving, with audio sometimes continuing in the background. The system can also freeze and become unresponsive to touch, or enter a reboot loop. CarPlay and Android Auto connections — particularly wireless — are prone to dropouts. Hyundai has released multiple TSBs addressing these issues, including 24-01-045H for the Display Audio system. Most problems are resolved with software updates applied at the dealer or via OTA. If the head unit hardware itself fails after warranty, replacement can cost €400-500, though this is uncommon. On most affected cars, a dealer software update resolves the problem at no cost.

A recall affecting 2025-2026 Kona and other Hyundai models addresses a software error that can cause the instrument panel display to go blank while driving. The root cause was traced to a Tier 2 supplier providing chipsets susceptible to electrical noise. This means the speedometer, battery gauge, and safety warnings all disappear temporarily. The fix is a software update applied OTA or at a dealer, free of charge. Owner notification was issued March 2026. While the recall primarily targets later production, earlier SX2 models can also exhibit intermittent display glitches that are correctable via software.

Some owners find that DC fast charging stops mid-session after a few minutes, or delivers power more consistent with strong Level 2 than the headline 100 kW figure. In cold or very hot weather, the battery management system throttles charging speed aggressively to protect the cells. The most common causes are software handshake issues with specific charger brands, a weak 12V battery affecting communication, or conservative thermal management. Hyundai BMS updates have improved charging behavior on many cars. In rare cases where the onboard charger (OBC) itself has a hardware fault, replacement can cost €250-300 at a dealer under warranty, or significantly more out of warranty. Most charging issues resolve with a BMS software update at no cost.

European-market Kona Electrics have a heat pump, but several owners report sluggish cabin heating in cold weather. Below about 7 degrees Celsius, the car initially uses a PTC resistive heater for roughly 3 minutes before the heat pump takes over, which can feel like an uncomfortably cold start. In sub-zero conditions, heat output may remain weak, and windshield defogging can be poor. Some owners were told by dealers this is how the system is designed to function. A refrigerant leak or faulty valve can make it worse, with repair costs in the €400-800 range. Software updates have improved heat management on some cars, and keeping the cabin pre-conditioned while plugged in helps significantly.

Some owners report clunking or thumping sounds from the rear suspension when driving over speed bumps or potholes, and light creaking from dashboard or door panels particularly in cold weather. The rear noises are often traced to brake pad clips, shock absorber mounts, or sway bar links. Interior trim creaks are typical of the segment and temperature-dependent. Most cases are resolved under warranty with adjusted clips, replacement mounts, or foam inserts. Out-of-warranty, a sway bar link replacement runs around €100-200, while shock mount replacement is €200-500 depending on labor.