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2021 Kona 1.6T DCT Hesitation and Clunking on Shifts

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Mike T. · rep 0 · May 25, 2:00 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2021 Hyundai Kona Limited

Hi everyone,

I'm experiencing some concerning issues with the transmission in my 2021 Hyundai Kona Limited, which has the 1.6L turbo engine and the 7-speed Dual-Clutch Transmission (DCT). The car has about 30,000 miles on it.

My main complaint is significant hesitation when accelerating from a stop or at very low speeds, like in stop-and-go traffic. It feels like the car takes a moment to decide what gear it wants to be in, and then it lurches forward. I also occasionally hear a clunking sound, especially during downshifts or when shifting from reverse to drive. Sometimes the car feels like it's struggling to engage the clutch.

I haven't seen a check engine light yet, but these symptoms are really making me nervous. Is this normal behavior for a DCT, or should I be worried? What could be causing this, and what's the typical fix?

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 25, 2:00 AM

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ClearTheCode admin answer:

Your description of hesitation, lurching, and clunking sounds from your 2021 Hyundai Kona's 7-speed Dual-Clutch Transmission (DCT) is a common concern among owners of vehicles equipped with this type of transmission. While some degree of unique behavior (like slight engagement delay) is inherent to DCTs compared to traditional automatics, pronounced hesitation and clunking are not normal and indicate a potential issue. Although you don't have a check engine light, a P0700 (Transmission Control System Malfunction) or P0841 (Transmission Fluid Pressure Sensor/Switch 'A' Circuit Range/Performance) could eventually appear.

Here are the common causes and what to do:

  1. Clutch Pack Wear/Malfunction: The DCT uses two separate clutches. Wear or malfunction in one or both clutch packs can lead to slipping, hesitation during engagement, and rough shifts. This is a common failure point for DCTs, especially with stop-and-go driving.
  2. Mechatronics Unit Issues: The mechatronics unit is the brain of the DCT, combining the transmission's electronic control unit (TCU) and hydraulic control unit. Problems with solenoids, sensors, or the TCU within this unit can cause erratic shifting and engagement.
  3. Software Glitches/Updates: Sometimes, the TCU's software can benefit from an update to improve shift logic and clutch engagement. Hyundai has released updates for various DCT models.
  4. Actuator Problems: The actuators that operate the clutches and shift forks can wear out or malfunction, leading to poor engagement or difficulty selecting gears.
  5. Transmission Fluid: While not as common as in CVTs, incorrect or degraded transmission fluid (for the wet-clutch DCTs, if applicable, though many Hyundai 7-speed DCTs are dry-clutch) can affect performance.

When to See a Shop:

  • Promptly: Do not ignore these symptoms. While a DCT's behavior can be different, severe hesitation and clunking can indicate significant wear or a developing failure. Continuing to drive could exacerbate the problem and lead to more expensive repairs.

What to Expect at the Shop:

  • Diagnostic Scan: A technician will use a specialized scanner to check for any pending or stored transmission-related codes, even if the check engine light isn't on.
  • Software Update: They will check for and apply any available TCU software updates.
  • Clutch Adaptation/Reset: The DCT often requires a 're-learn' or adaptation procedure for the clutches, which a dealership can perform.
  • Physical Inspection: If software and basic resets don't resolve the issue, a more in-depth inspection of the clutch packs and mechatronics unit may be required. This can be a complex and costly repair, potentially involving clutch pack replacement or mechatronics unit overhaul/replacement.
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