
2023 Hyundai Kona-EV Tire and Wheels User Guide
The 2023 Hyundai Kona-EV is an electric SUV that boasts impressive performance and technology features. Like any vehicle, its tires and wheels are essential components that are carefully designed to ensure a smooth and secure ride. The Kona-EV comes standard with 17-inch alloy wheels, while 18-inch and 19-inch options are also available for those who prefer a more sporty look. The tires are engineered to offer good grip on both wet and dry roads, with optimized tread patterns to minimize rolling resistance and maximize the vehicle’s range. In addition, the Kona-EV is equipped with a tire pressure monitoring system, which alerts drivers when the tire pressure is low, ensuring optimal handling and safety. Overall, the tire and wheel setup of the Kona-EV has been thoughtfully chosen to provide a comfortable, efficient, and safe driving experience.
2023 Hyundai KONA Specs, Price, Features, Mileage
Tire and Wheels
WARNING
Tire failure may cause loss of vehicle control resulting in an accident. To reduce risk of SERIOUS INJURY or DEATH, take the following precautions:
- Inspect your tires monthly for proper inflation as well as wear and damage.
- The recommended cold tire pressure for your vehicle can be found in this manual and on the tire label located on the driver’s side center pillar. Always use a tire pressure gauge to measure tire pressure. Tires with too much or too little pressure wear unevenly causing poor handling.
- Check the pressure of the spare every time you check the pressure of the other tires on your vehicle.
- Replace tires that are worn, show uneven wear, or are damaged. Worn tires can cause loss of braking effectiveness, steering control, or traction.
- ALWAYS replace tires with the same size as each tire that was originally supplied with this vehicle. Using tires and wheels other than the recommended sizes could cause unusual handling characteristics, poor vehicle control, or negatively affect your vehicle’s Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) resulting in a serious accident.
Tire Care
For proper maintenance, safety, and maximum electric energy economy, you must always maintain recommended tire inflation pressures and stay within the load limits and weight distribution recommended for your vehicle.

All specifications (sizes and pressures) can be found on a label attached to the driver’s side center pillar.
Recommended Cold Tire Inflation Pressures
All tire pressures (including the spare) should be checked when the tires are cold. “Cold tires” means the vehicle has not been driven for at least three hours or has been driven for less than 1 mile (1.6 km).
Warm tires normally exceed recommended cold tire pressures by 28 to 41 kPa (4 to 6 psi). Do not release air from warm tires to adjust the pressure or the tires will be under-inflated. For recommended inflation pressure, refer to “Tires and Wheels” in chapter 2.
WARNING
Recommended pressures must be maintained for the best ride, vehicle handling, and minimum tire wear.
Over-inflation or under-inflation can reduce tire life, adversely affect vehicle handling, and lead to sudden tire failure that could result in loss of vehicle control resulting in an accident.
Severe under-inflation can lead
to severe heat build-up, causing blowouts, tread separation and other tire failures that can result in the loss of vehicle control resulting in an accident. This risk is much higher on hot days and when driving for long periods at high speeds.
CAUTION
- Under-inflation results in excessive wear, poor handling and reduced electric energy economy. Wheel deformation is also possible. Keep your tire pressures at the proper levels. If a tire frequently needs refilling, have it checked by an authorized HYUNDAI dealer.
- Over-inflation produces a harsh ride, excessive wear at the center of the tire tread, and a greater possibility of damage from road hazards.
Check Tire Inflation Pressure
Check your tires, including the spare tire, once a month or more.
How to check
Use a good quality tire pressure gauge to check tire pressure. You can not tell if your tires are properly inflated simply by looking at them. Radial tires may look properly inflated when they are under-inflated.
Remove the valve cap from the tire valve stem. Press the tire gauge firmly onto the valve to get a pressure measurement. If the cold tire inflation pressure matches the recommended pressure on the tire and loading information label, no further adjustment is necessary. If the pressure is low, add air until you reach the recommended pressure. Make sure to put the valve caps back on the valve stems. Without the valve cap, dirt or moisture could get into the valve core and cause air leakage. If a valve cap is missing, install a new one as soon as possible.
If you overfill the tire, release air by pushing on the metal stem in the center of the tire valve. Recheck the tire pressure with the tire gauge. Be sure to put the valve caps back on the valve stems. Without the valve cap, dirt or moisture could get into the valve core and cause air leakage. If a valve cap is missing, install a new one as soon as possible.
Tire Rotation
To equalize tread wear, HYUNDAI recommends that the tires be rotated every 6,000 mile (10,000 km) or sooner if irregular wear develops.
During rotation, check the tires for correct balance.
When rotating tires, check for uneven wear and damage. Abnormal wear is usually caused by incorrect tire pressure, improper wheel alignment, out-of-balance wheels, severe braking or severe cornering. Look for bumps or bulges in the tread or side of the tire. Replace the tire if you find any of these conditions. Replace the tire if fabric or cord is visible. After rotation, be sure to bring the front and rear tire pressures to specification and check lug nut tightness (proper torque is 11~13 kgf·m [79~94 lbf·ft]).

Disc brake pads should be inspected for wear whenever tires are rotated.
Information
The outside and inside of the unsymmetrical tire is distinguishable. When installing an unsymmetrical tire, be sure to install the side marked “outside” facing the outside. If the side marked “inside” is installed on the outside, it will have a negative effect on vehicle performance.
WARNING
- Do not use the compact spare tire for tire rotation.
- Do not mix bias ply and radial ply tires under any circumstances. This may cause unusual handling characteristics that may cause loss of vehicle control resulting in an accident.
Wheel Alignment and Tire Balance
The wheels on your vehicle were aligned and balanced carefully at the factory to give you the longest tire life and best overall performance.
In most cases, you will not need to have your wheels aligned again. However, if you notice unusual tire wear or your vehicle pulling one way or the other, the alignment may need to be reset.
If you notice your vehicle vibrating when driving on a smooth road, your wheels may need to be rebalanced.
NOTICE
Incorrect wheel weights can damage your vehicle’s aluminum wheels. Use only approved wheel weights.
Tire Replacement

[A] : Tread wear indicator
If the tire is worn evenly, a tread wear indicator will appear as a solid band across the tread. This shows there is less than 1.6 mm (1/16 in.) of tread left on the tire. Replace the tire when this happens.
Do not wait for the band to appear across the entire tread before replacing the tire.
WARNING
To reduce the risk of DEATH or SERIOUS INJURY:
- Replace tires that are worn, show uneven wear, or are damaged. Worn tires can cause loss of braking effectiveness, steering control, and traction.
- Always replace tires with the same size as each tire that was originally supplied with this vehicle. Using tires and wheels other than the recommended sizes could cause unusual handling characteristics, poor vehicle control, or negatively affect your vehicle’s Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) resulting in a serious accident.
- When replacing tires (or wheels), it is recommended to replace the two front or two rear tires (or wheels) as a pair. Replacing just one tire can seriously affect your vehicle’s handling. If only replacing one pair of tires, it is recommended to install the pair of new tires on the rear axle.
- Tires degrade over time, even when they are not being used. Regardless of the remaining tread, HYUNDAI recommends that tires be replaced after six (6) years of normal service.
- Heat caused by hot climates or frequent high-loading conditions can accelerate the aging process. Failure to follow this warning may cause sudden tire failure, which could lead to a loss of vehicle control resulting in an accident.
Wheel Replacement
When replacing the metal wheels for any reason, make sure the new wheels are equivalent to the original factory units in diameter, rim width, and offset.
Tire Traction
Tire traction can be reduced if you drive on worn tires, tires that are improperly inflated or on slippery road surfaces. Tires should be replaced when tread wear indicators appear. To reduce the possibility of losing control, slow down whenever there is rain, snow or ice on the road.
Tire Maintenance
In addition to proper inflation, correct wheel alignment helps to decrease tire wear. If you find a tire is worn unevenly, have your dealer check the wheel alignment.
When you have new tires installed, make sure they are balanced. This will increase vehicle ride comfort and tire life. Additionally, a tire should always be rebalanced if it is removed from the wheel.
Tire Sidewall Labeling
This information identifies and describes the fundamental characteristics of the tire and also provides the tire identification number (TIN) for safety standard certification. The TIN can be used to identify the tire in case of a recall.

- Manufacturer or brand name
The manufacturer or brand name is shown.
- Tire size designation
A tire’s sidewall is marked with a tire size designation. You will need this information when selecting replacement tires for your car.
The following explains what the letters and numbers in the tire size designation mean.
Example tire size designation:
(These numbers are provided as an example only; your tire size designator could vary depending on your vehicle.)
205/60 R16 92V
205 – Tire width in millimeters.
60 – Aspect ratio. The tire’s section height as a percentage of its width.
R – Tire construction code (Radial). 16 – Rim diameter in inches.
92 – Load Index, a numerical code associated with the maximum load the tire can carry.
V – Speed Rating Symbol. See the speed rating chart in this section for additional information.
Wheel size designation
Wheels are also marked with important information that you need if you ever have to replace one. The following explains what the letters and numbers in the wheel size designation mean.
- Example wheel size designation:
- 6.5JX16
- 6.5 – Rim width in inches.
- J – Rim contour designation.
- 16 – Rim diameter in inches.
Tire speed ratings
The chart below lists many of the different speed ratings currently being used for passenger vehicle tires. The speed rating is part of the tire size designation on the sidewall of the tire. This symbol corresponds to that tire’s designed maximum safe operating speed.

Checking tire life
(TIN : Tire Identification Number) Any tires that are over six years old, based on the manufacturing date, (including the spare tire) should be replaced by new ones. You can find the manufacturing date on the tire sidewall (possibly on the inside of the wheel), displaying the DOT Code. The DOT Code is a series of numbers on a tire consisting of numbers and English letters. The manufacturing date is designated by the last four digits (characters) of the DOT code.
DOT: XXXX XXXX OOOO
The front part of the DOT shows a plant code number, tire size and tread pattern and the last four numbers indicate week and year manufactured.
For example:
DOT XXXX XXXX 1522 represents that the tire was produced in the 15th week of 2022.
Tire ply composition and material
The number of layers or plies of rubber-coated fabric in the tire. Tire manufacturers also must indicate the materials in the tire, which include steel, nylon, polyester, and others. The letter “R” means radial ply construction; the letter “D“ means diagonal or bias ply construction; and the letter “B” means belted-bias ply construction.
Maximum permissible inflation pressure
This number is the greatest amount of air pressure that should be put in the tire. Do not exceed the maximum permissible inflation pressure. Refer to the Tire and Loading Information label for recommended inflation pressure.
Maximum load rating
This number indicates the maximum load in kilograms and pounds that can be carried by the tire. When replacing the tires on the vehicle, always use a tire that has the same load rating as the factory-installed tire.
Uniform tire quality grading
Quality grades can be found where applicable on the tire sidewall between tread shoulder and maximum section width.
For example:
TREADWEAR 200
TRACTION AA
TEMPERATURE A
Treadwear
The treadwear grade is a comparative rating based on the wear rate of the tire when tested under controlled conditions on a specified government test course. For example, a tire graded 150 would wear one-and-a-half times (1½) as well on the government course as a tire graded 100.
The relative performance of tires depends upon the actual conditions of their use, however, and may depart significantly from the norm due to variations in driving habits, service practices, and differences in road characteristics and climate.
These grades are molded on the sidewalls of passenger vehicle tires. The tires available as standard or optional equipment on your vehicle may vary with respect to grade.
Traction – AA, A, B & C
The traction grades, from highest to lowest, are AA, A, B and C. Those grades represent the tire’s ability to stop on wet pavement as measured under controlled conditions on specified government test surfaces of asphalt and concrete. A tire marked C may have poor traction performance.
WARNING
The traction grade assigned to this tire is based on straight-ahead braking traction tests, and does not include acceleration, cornering, hydroplaning, or peak traction characteristics.
Temperature – A, B & C
The temperature grades are A (the highest), B and C representing the tire’s resistance to the generation of heat and its ability to dissipate heat when tested under controlled conditions on a specified indoor laboratory test wheel. Sustained high temperature can cause the material of the tire to degenerate and reduce tire life, and excessive temperature can lead to sudden tire failure. Grades B and A represent higher levels of performance on the laboratory test wheel than the minimum required by law.
WARNING
The temperature grade for this tire is established for a tire that is properly inflated and not overloaded. Excessive speed, under-inflation, over-inflation, or excessive loading, either separately or in combination, can cause heat build-up and possible sudden tire failure. This may cause loss of vehicle control resulting in an accident.
Tire Terminology and Definitions
Air pressure
The amount of air inside the tire pressing outward on the tire. Air pressure is expressed in pounds per square inch (psi) or kilopascal (kPa).
Accessory weight
This means the combined weight of optional accessories. Some examples of optional accessories are automatic transmissions, power seats, and air conditioning.
Aspect ratio
The relationship of a tire’s height to its width.
Belt
A rubber-coated layer of cords is located between the plies and the tread. Cords may be made from steel or other reinforcing materials.
Bead
The tire bead contains steel wires wrapped by steel cords that hold the tire onto the rim.
Bias ply tire
A pneumatic tire in which the plies are laid at alternate angles less than 90 degrees to the centerline of the tread.
Cold tire pressure
The amount of air pressure in a tire, measured in pounds per square inch (psi) or kilopascals (kPa) before a tire has built up heat from driving.
Curb weight
This means the weight of a motor vehicle with standard and optional equipment including the maximum capacity of fuel, oil, and coolant, but without passengers and cargo.
DOT markings
A code molded into the sidewall of a tire signifies that the tire is in compliance with the U.S. Department of Transportation’s motor vehicle safety standards. The DOT code includes the Tire Identification Number (TIN), an alphanumeric designator that can also identify the tire manufacturer, production plant, brand, and date of production.
GVWR
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating
GAWR FRT
Gross Axle Weight Rating for the Front Axle.
GAWR RR
Gross Axle Weight Rating for the Rear axle.
Intended outboard sidewall
The side of an asymmetrical tire must always face outward when mounted on a vehicle.
Kilopascal (kPa)
The metric unit for air pressure.
Light Truck (LT) tire
A tire is designated by its manufacturer as primarily intended for use on lightweight trucks or multipurpose passenger vehicles.
Load ratings
The maximum load that a tire is rated to carry for a given inflation pressure.
Load Index
An assigned number ranging from 1 to 279 corresponds to the load-carrying capacity of a tire.
Maximum inflation pressure
The maximum air pressure to which a cold tire may be inflated. The maximum air pressure is molded onto the sidewall.
Maximum load rating
The load rating for a tire at the maximum permissible inflation pressure for that tire.
Maximum loaded vehicle weight
The sum of curb weight; accessory weight; vehicle capacity weight; and production options weight.
Normal occupant weight
The number of occupants a vehicle is designed to seat is multiplied by 150 pounds (68 kg).
Occupant distribution
Designated seating positions.
Outward facing sidewall
An asymmetrical tire has a particular side that faces outward when mounted on a vehicle. The outward-facing sidewall bears white lettering or bears manufacturer, brand, and/or model name molding that is higher or deeper than the same moldings on the inner-facing sidewall.
Passenger (P-Metric) tire
A tire used on passenger cars some light-duty trucks and multipurpose vehicles.
Ply
A layer of rubber-coated parallel cords.
Pneumatic tire
A mechanical device made of rubber, chemicals, fabric steel, or other materials, that, when mounted on an automotive wheel provides traction and contains the gas or fluid that sustains the load.
Pneumatic options weight
The combined weight of installed regular production options weighing over 5 lb. (2.3 kg) in excess of the standard items which they replace, not previously considered in
curb weight or accessory weight, including heavy-duty breaks, ride levelers, roof rack, heavy-duty battery, and special trim.
Recommended inflation pressure
The vehicle manufacturer’s recommended tire inflation pressure as shown on the tire placard.
Radial ply tire
A pneumatic tire in which the ply cords that extend to the beads are laid at 90 degrees to the centerline of the tread.
Rim
A metal support for a tire and upon which the tire beads are seated.
Sidewall
The portion of a tire between the tread and the bead.
Speed rating
An alphanumeric code is assigned to a tire indicating the maximum speed at which a tire can operate.
Traction
The friction between the tire and the road surface. The amount of grip provided.
Tread
The portion of a tire that comes into contact with the road.
Treadwear indicators
Narrow bands, sometimes called
“wear bars”, that show across the tread of a tire when only 1/16 inch of tread remains.
UTQGS
Uniform Tire Quality Grading Standards is a tire information system that provides consumers with ratings for a tire’s traction, temperature, and treadwear. Ratings are determined by tire manufacturers using government testing procedures. The ratings are molded into the sidewall of the tire.
Vehicle capacity weight
The number of designated seating positions multiplied by 150 lbs. (68 kg) plus the rated cargo and luggage load.
Vehicle maximum load on the tire
Load on an individual tire due to curb and accessory weight plus maximum occupant and cargo weight.
Vehicle normal load on the tire
Load on an individual tire that is determined by distributing to each axle its share of the curb weight, accessory weight, and normal occupant weight and dividing by 2.
Vehicle placard
A label permanently attached to a vehicle showing the original equipment tire size and recommended inflation pressure.
All Season Tires
HYUNDAI specifies all-season tires on some models to provide good performance for use all year round, including snowy and icy road conditions. All season tires are identified by ALL SEASON and/or M+S (Mud and Snow) on the tire sidewall. Snow tires have better snow traction than all-season tires and may be more appropriate in some areas.
Summer Tires
HYUNDAI specifies summer tires on some models to provide superior performance on dry roads. Summer tire performance is substantially reduced in snow and ice. Summer tires do not have the tire traction rating M+S (Mud and Snow) on the tire side wall. If you plan to operate your vehicle in snowy or icy conditions, HYUNDAI recommends the use of snow tires or all season tires on all four wheels.
Snow Tires
If you equip your car with snow tires, they should be the same size and have the same load capacity as the original tires. Snow tires should be installed on all four wheels; otherwise, poor handling may result. Snow tires should carry 4 psi (28 kPa) more air pressure than the pressure recommended for the standard tires on the tire label on the driver’s side of the center pillar, or up to the maximum pressure shown on the tire sidewall, whichever is less. Do not drive faster than 75 mph (120 km/h) when your vehicle is equipped with snow tires.
Radial-Ply Tires
Radial-ply tires provide improved tread life, road hazard resistance, and smoother high-speed ride. The radial-ply tires used on this vehicle are of belted construction and are selected to complement the ride and handling characteristics of your vehicle. Radial-ply tires have the same load-carrying capacity, as bias-ply or bias-belted tires of the same size, and use the same recommended inflation pressure. Mixing radial-ply tires with bias-ply or bias-belted tires is not recommended. Any combinations of radial-ply and bias-ply or bias-belted tires when used on the same vehicle will seriously deteriorate vehicle handling. The best rule to follow is: Identical pairs of radial-ply tires should always be used as a set for the front tires and a set for the rear tires. Longer-wearing tires can be more susceptible to irregular tread wear. It is very important to follow the tire rotation interval in this chapter to achieve the tread life potential of these tires. Cuts and punctures in radial-ply tires are repairable only in the tread area, because of sidewall flexing. Consult your tire dealer for radial-ply tire repairs.
WARNING
Do not mix bias ply and radial ply tires under any circumstances. This may cause unusual handling characteristics that may cause loss of vehicle control resulting in an accident.
Low Aspect Ratio Tires
The aspect ratio is lower than 50 on low-aspect-ratio tires.
Because low aspect ratio tires are optimized for handling and braking, their sidewall is a little stiffer than a standard tire. Also, low aspect ratio tires tend to be wider so that they consequently have a greater contact patch with the road surface. In some instances, they may generate more road noise compared with standard tires.
CAUTION
The side wall of a low aspect ratio tire is shorter than the normal one. Thus, the low-aspect wheel and tire are easily damaged. Follow the below instructions.
- When driving on a rough road or driving off a road, be careful not to damage the tires and wheels. After driving, inspect the tires and wheels.
- When passing over a pothole, speed bump, manhole, or curb stone, drive the vehicle slowly so as not to damage the tires and wheels.
- When there is an impact on a tire, inspect the tire condition. Or, contact an authorized HYUNDAI dealer.
- Inspect the tire condition and pressure every 1,800 miles (3,000 km) to prevent tire damage.
- It is difficult to recognize a tire damage only with your eyes. When there is a slight hint of a tire damage, check and replace the tire to prevent the damage caused by air leakage.
- When a tire is damaged while driving on a rough road, off a road, or over obstacles, such as a pothole, manhole, or curb stone, your warranty does not cover the damage.
- The tire information is specified on the tire side wall.
Q&A
- What are the standard tire and wheel sizes for the 2023 Hyundai Kona-EV?
The 2023 Hyundai Kona-EV comes with 17-inch alloy wheels as standard.
- Are there other wheel-size options available for the Kona-EV?
Yes, 18-inch and 19-inch wheel options are available for those who want a sportier look.
- What type of tires does the Kona-EV have?
The Kona-EV has tires designed to provide good grip on both wet and dry roads. The tread pattern is optimized for low rolling resistance to maximize the vehicle’s range.
- Does the Kona-EV have a tire pressure monitoring system?
Yes, the Kona-EV comes equipped with a tire pressure monitoring system. This system alerts drivers when the tire pressure is low and helps ensure optimal handling and safety.
- Can the tire pressure monitoring system be turned off?
No, the tire pressure monitoring system cannot be turned off.
- What is the recommended tire pressure for the Kona-EV?
The recommended tire pressure for the Kona-EV is 36 psi for the front tires and 33 psi for the rear tires.
- What is the maximum load capacity for the Kona-EV tires?
The maximum load capacity for the Kona-EV tires is 1,102 lbs (500 kg).
- What is the expected lifespan of the Kona-EV tires?
The expected lifespan of the Kona-EV tires can vary depending on driving habits, road conditions, and other factors. However, on average, they can last between 40,000 to 60,000 miles.
- Are the Kona-EV tires covered under warranty?
Yes, the Kona-EV tires are covered under Hyundai’s standard warranty. This includes a 5-year/60,000-mile limited warranty and a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty.
- Can I use snow tires on the Kona-EV?
Yes, snow tires can be used on the Kona-EV for better traction on snowy and icy roads.
- Are there any wheel and tire packages available for the Kona-EV?
Yes, Hyundai offers various wheel and tire packages for the Kona-EV. These packages can provide different styles and sizes of wheels and tires.
- Can I rotate the tires on my Kona-EV?
Yes, rotating the tires on your Kona-EV can help promote even tire wear and extend the lifespan of your tires.
- Can I use aftermarket wheels on my Kona-EV?
Yes, aftermarket wheels can be used on the Kona-EV, but it is recommended to use wheels that are specifically designed for the vehicle.
- How often should I check the tire pressure on my Kona-EV?
It is recommended to check the tire pressure on your Kona-EV at least once a month.
- Can I replace just one tire on my Kona-EV, or do I need to replace all four tires at once?
It is recommended to replace all four tires at once to maintain optimal handling and safety. However, if you need to replace just one tire, it is important to match the same brand, model, and size as the remaining tires.
Useful Links
View Full User Guide: Hyundai Kona-EV 2023 User Guide
Download Manuals: https://owners.hyundaiusa.com/us/en/resources/manuals-warranties.html
2023 Hyundai KONA Specs, Price, Features, Mileage