Hyundai Kona Electric's TÜV Rating is Commendable, However, with a Modest Constraint
When considering a used Hyundai Kona Electric, it's essential to be aware of its key strengths and potential issues, particularly concerning battery capacity, dimensions, and breakdown behaviour.
### Common Issues
The early Kona Electric models (2018-2020) experienced battery defects leading to fires, prompting a global recall of approximately 77,000 vehicles. If a used Kona Electric falls under this recall, the battery replacement is free. However, outside warranty or recall coverage, replacements can be costly, ranging from £8,000 to £12,000. Some owners have reported extremely high repair costs for battery-related issues, sometimes exceeding £7,000.
Electric versions are heavier, leading to faster tyre wear, with replacements sometimes needed around 30,000 miles. Other reported issues include minor noises like squealing at low and high speeds, possibly indicating wear on components.
EV breakdowns pose unique challenges due to the high-voltage battery system, although safer than combustion engines overall, can be harder to manage in emergencies.
### Strengths
The Kona Electric is praised for its affordability, practical dimensions, and tech features, making it a popular compact SUV choice. Its compact SUV size balances urban maneuverability with reasonable interior space.
Hyundai Kona Electric models come with a 64 kWh battery pack, providing a notable range suitable for most daily driving needs (although specifics depend on model year and battery health). The battery technology is generally solid post-recall, with improved safety measures.
Being a compact SUV, the Kona Electric offers a relatively compact footprint combined with the functionality of an SUV, suitable for city and suburban use.
### Summary Table
| Aspect | Notes | |-----------------------|------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | **Battery Capacity** | ~64 kWh battery; early models had recall for battery fire risks; replacement costly if out warranty | | **Dimensions** | Compact SUV size; practical for urban and suburban driving | | **Common Issues** | Battery defects (fire risk in early models), expensive out-of-warranty repairs, faster tyre wear | | **Breakdown Behaviour**| Battery-related faults can cause breakdowns; EVs require special care due to high-voltage systems | | **Strengths** | Affordability, tech features, practical size, decent range for EV |
### Recommendations for Buyers
- Confirm recall status: Ensure the battery recall has been addressed on the vehicle. - Check battery health: Battery degradation and previous repairs are critical for cost and reliability. - Inspect tyre condition: Due to heavier EV weight, tyres may need earlier replacement. - Be prepared for repair costs: Out-of-warranty repairs, especially related to the battery, can be very expensive. - Look for minor noises or signs of wear: Squealing noises may indicate maintenance needs.
This balance of practicality and advanced technology with the caveat of potential high-cost battery issues is essential to consider when buying a used Hyundai Kona Electric. It's crucial to thoroughly inspect the vehicle before purchase and be prepared for potential repair costs.
The balance of practicality and advanced technology in a used Hyundai Kona Electric, as depicted by its tech features and practical dimensions, contrasts with the potential high-cost battery issues it may encounter, especially those associated with not mechanically propelled electric-vehicles and other reported issues like faster tyre wear. Adhering to recommended precautions such as confirming the battery recall status, checking battery health, inspecting tyre condition, being prepared for repair costs, and looking for minor noises or signs of wear can help mitigate the risks, thus fitting the lifestyle of an individual interested in environmentally friendly vehicles that prioritizes technology and urban convenience.
