Ford Escape vs Hyundai Kona
For 2018–2022 models, the Hyundai Kona has 18.0 owner complaints per 10,000 sold, against 46.4 for the Ford Escape. Below: what each one’s owners report most, when it shows up, and what it costs to fix.
Both rates cover the same model years (2018–2022), counting each complaint once and dividing by US sales, so the more popular vehicle isn’t penalized for being popular. Years too new to judge are left out. How this is calculated.
Ford Escape
46.4 complaints per 10,000 sold
2.6× the Hyundai Kona’s rate
- Complaints
- 4,526
- Sold
- 974,895
- Recall campaigns
- 34
- Open NHTSA investigations
- 2
Fewest: 2021–2022. Every year →
Most-reported problems
-
Stalling and no-start
Typically around 56,500 mi
-
Head gasket and cylinder head
Typically around 85,000 mi · repair $1,620–$3,010
-
Electric power steering motor and module
Typically around 110,984 mi · repair $750–$2,230
-
Doors, windows, latches, seats and trim
Typically around 52,000 mi
-
Cooling system: radiator, water pump, thermostat, fan
Typically around 80,200 mi · repair $260–$1,910
Hyundai Kona
18.0 complaints per 10,000 sold
61% fewer than the Ford Escape
- Complaints
- 630
- Sold
- 350,270
- Recall campaigns
- 2
- Open NHTSA investigations
- 0
Most complaints: 2019. Every year →
Most-reported problems
-
Internal engine (bearings, pistons, rings)
Typically around 36,000 mi
-
Stalling and no-start
Typically around 17,000 mi
-
Body control and other modules
Typically around 7,000 mi
-
Oil consumption and leaks
Typically around 52,100 mi
-
Driver-assist cameras, radar and calibration
Typically around 1,577 mi
Common questions
Which has fewer problems, the Ford Escape or the Hyundai Kona?
For 2018–2022 models, the Hyundai Kona has 18.0 owner complaints per 10,000 sold and the Ford Escape has 46.4, counting the same model years for both.
What is the most common problem on the Ford Escape?
The most-reported problem on the Ford Escape is stalling and no-start, typically around 56,500 miles.
What is the most common problem on the Hyundai Kona?
The most-reported problem on the Hyundai Kona is internal engine (bearings, pistons, rings), typically around 36,000 miles.
Which Ford Escape and Hyundai Kona years have the most complaints?
Relative to each vehicle's typical year: Hyundai Kona: 2019.
Source: NHTSA owner complaints, recalls and investigations; US sales from public industry figures; repair costs from book labor hours and parts pricing at national rates. Complaints are self-reported and not independently verified. Problem lists cover each vehicle’s full history. This is not a recommendation to buy or avoid either vehicle.