Ford Explorer vs Hyundai Kona
For 2018–2022 models, the Hyundai Kona has 18.0 owner complaints per 10,000 sold, against 26.3 for the Ford Explorer. 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 Explorer
26.3 complaints per 10,000 sold
1.5× the Hyundai Kona’s rate
- Complaints
- 2,900
- Sold
- 1,102,481
- Recall campaigns
- 47
- Open NHTSA investigations
- 3
Fewest: 2022. Every year →
Most-reported problems
-
Doors, windows, latches, seats and trim
Typically around 82,000 mi
-
Electric power steering motor and module
Typically around 78,000 mi · repair $750–$2,230
-
Power steering pump, rack and lines
Typically around 77,000 mi · repair $750–$2,230
-
Harsh, delayed or erratic shifting
Typically around 88,300 mi
-
Water leaks and seals
Typically around 60,000 mi
Hyundai Kona
18.0 complaints per 10,000 sold
32% fewer than the Ford Explorer
- 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 Explorer or the Hyundai Kona?
For 2018–2022 models, the Hyundai Kona has 18.0 owner complaints per 10,000 sold and the Ford Explorer has 26.3, counting the same model years for both.
What is the most common problem on the Ford Explorer?
The most-reported problem on the Ford Explorer is doors, windows, latches, seats and trim, typically around 82,000 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 Explorer 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.