Hyundai Sonata Complaints (2014)

778 consumer complaints on file.

#11684714September 3, 2025
AIR BAGS
The contact owns a 2014 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated that the driver’s air bag warning light was displayed on the instrument panel. The vehicle was taken to a dealer and the contact was provided an estimate for the repair. The service technician stated that there were no recalls on the VIN related to the failure. The failure persisted and the contact stated that the electrical functions on the steering failed to operate as needed. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and the contact was provided the same information as the dealer and the contact was given a case number. The vehicle was repaired. The failure mileage was unknown.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11682737August 24, 2025
ENGINE
My engine has a knock and the dealership told me that they would not fix it due to "lack of maintanence" but I tried explaining to them that I was unable to get proof because Oreily and auto zone were unable to get me receipts on old purchases.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11682308August 22, 2025
ENGINE
Engine Failure. After taking my Hyundai listed above in for repairs to the air conditioning not working properly and while in custody of Jeff's Automotive Service, here in Sterling, IL 61081, the engine suddenly died out while they were test driving the car. They were able to jump start it once, and then it died out again while driving it. This time the car could not be restarted by all means possible. Being in the shop, other possible causes were checked and not one of them worked. The Engine is completely DEAD. After Checking for possible causes online it was found that a recall for the very same Engine Failure had been done back in 2017/2018.\n" + 'For unknown reasons, I was never notified nor did I ever received such notice. Now at this time, we have contacted a local dealer and they state that because the auto had not been taken in for the recall repairs, it no longer "qualifies" for free repairs and any repairs would have to be paid for. Upon checking the NHTSA website, it states that there are no time limits on the repairs. I was going to contact National Hyundai Corp to inquire about it, but decided instead to file a complaint with you. 'The question is: Is my car still eligible for the Recall Repairs under the Hyndai Mfg Recall #162 'of March 31, 2017? Recall Number 17V2260000??? Given the fact that i did not receive their notification if indeed, one was sent, and I was totally unaware of this Recall???. I sincerely\n' + 'believe that under the laws and procedures, I should still be eligible for this Recall Repair of\n' + 'their Faulty Engine Failure in my automobile listed above. \n' + 'Therefore I am at this time requesting an investigation and a decision before I make any attempts to contact Hyundai Mfg directly. Also as part of my inquiries I spoke to the Service Department of Schimmer Hyundai in Peru, IL the closest dealer to me, and after checking the VIN number I was to
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11682253August 21, 2025
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
The contact owns a 2014 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated that the vehicle was inspected by a mechanic, and during the test drive, the vehicle experienced a loss of automotive power. There was no warning light illuminated. The local dealer was contacted; however, the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact referenced NHTSA Campaign Number: 17V226000 (ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING) as a possible cause for the failure. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 68,000.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11681482August 18, 2025
STRUCTURE:BODY
What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? >Rear Window Imploded, Rear Moon Roof Hairline Fractures How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? >Shards of glass fell. If a passenger was present, glass would have fell on them Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? >No Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others? >Not Yet. Insurance Claim just made. Were there any warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, and when did they first appear? >No warnings present Uploads of photos/videos will occur afterwards.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11677599July 31, 2025
ENGINE
The vehicle experienced engine stalling and rough running. We discovered it had an open engine recall related to known defects in the Theta II engine. We dropped the vehicle off at a Hyundai dealership (Hyundai Napleton) on July 1st, 2025 for recall repair, following instructions from ACV Auctions. After holding the vehicle for over three weeks, Hyundai Napleton informed us they could not perform the recall due to their internal policy against working on dealer-owned vehicles. This directly contradicts the purpose of a federally mandated safety recall, which is supposed to apply regardless of ownership. On July 23, 2025, we received a call from Hyundai Motor America, stating they would not approve the recall repair because the vehicle had been declared a total loss. This is entirely false—the vehicle has never been declared a total loss by any insurance company or official source. It appears Hyundai Motor America and the dealership are passing responsibility back and forth, providing conflicting and inaccurate information, while the vehicle sits unrepaired and inoperable. This behavior delays a federally mandated repair, puts consumers at risk, and reflects serious breakdowns in how Hyundai handles recall compliance. We need NHTSA’s help to investigate and enforce the proper handling of this safety recall. Vehicle VIN: [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11676727July 28, 2025
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
The contact owns a 2014 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who diagnosed a failure with the connecting rod bearings, resulting in damages to the engine. The vehicle was not repaired. After investigating the failure, the contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 17V226000 (Engine and Engine Cooling); but the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, a case was opened for repair assistance. The contact was later informed that the assistance request was denied on the grounds of poor maintenance history. The contact stated was not the owner of the vehicle during the time cited by the manufacturer. The failure mileage was 136,000.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11676058July 24, 2025
SERVICE BRAKES, ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, SEATS
The electrical in the entire car is malfunctioning. Sometimes the brake lights don’t work due to wiring, other times the seats control don’t work and the cables to battery is not connected/firing correctly. Has an entire electrical issue
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11674625July 18, 2025
AIR BAGS
What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? The airbag system warning light on my 2014 Hyundai Sonata GLS has turned on. I suspect it may be related to a faulty clock spring or another issue within the Supplemental Restraint System (SRS). The vehicle is available for inspection upon request. How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? If the airbag system is not functioning properly, the airbags may not deploy in the event of a collision, putting my life and the safety of passengers at serious risk. This is particularly concerning as this vehicle is used for daily commuting and family travel. Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? I have not yet had it diagnosed by a dealer or repair shop, but I plan to schedule a diagnostic check soon. The airbag light remains consistently on during vehicle operation, indicating a persistent fault. Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others? No, the vehicle has not yet been inspected by the manufacturer or any third-party representative. Were there any warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, and when did they first appear? Yes, the airbag warning light illuminated on the dashboard without any prior physical impact or incident. It first appeared approximately [two days ago], and it has remained on continuously since then. Additional Information: I am aware that certain Hyundai Sonatas have been subject to airbag-related recalls, including issues with the clock spring and airbag deployment failures. Given the similarity of symptoms, I would like to know whether my vehicle may be affected by one of these recalls, or if Hyundai will provide inspection and repair support based on this known issue.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11673697July 15, 2025
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
After having work done to repair the head gasket and spark plug. I was on mile ~300 after repairs and was nearing to fill up at a gas station, I started losing power and notice the check engine light was on and Gas smell filled the cabin. When I stopped the hood started smoking and there was a fire under the engine cover. My Vin is not listed on the fuel line recalls and I believe this is an oversite as it lists, faulty High Pressure hose can rupture and cause engine fires and that is exactly what happen in my case. I believe this Vin was Overlooked and I need the repairs complete. I have not completed any repairs because I believe this should have been recalled.
Crash:
No
Fire:
Yes
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11672363July 9, 2025
ENGINE
My engine seized and I lost power. This is the second engine this has happened to. I was given a extended warranty, but Hyundai is refusing to pay for a new engine. The mechanic advised me they are replacing engines three times a week. Mine was denied even though my engine only has 76,000 miles and my warranty is still good. This engine problem should be a new recall since the same problem is still occurring. The engine light did come on blinking. When I took it to the dealer. They knew the problem before looking at my engine since so many others need to have thiers replaced. The dealership confirmed i need a new engine. They made me send in my oil changes. They were upset I didn't have any oil receipts for my previous engine even thought it was replaced at a Hyundai dealership the first time. Consumers should not have to replace two engines. This is a safety concern with it losing power so quickly.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11671502July 7, 2025
POWER TRAIN, ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, ENGINE
Dear Sir/Madam, I am writing to file a formal safety complaint regarding a dangerous incident involving my Hyundai Sonata Hybrid (VIN: [XXX] ) and Hyundai Motor America’s failure to fully correct the issue. Incident Summary: While driving on the freeway, the vehicle suddenly displayed the following alarming warnings: “Hybrid System Warning! Safely Stop and Do Not Drive” “Check Charging System” Immediately after these messages appeared, the car lost all power and shut down in the middle of the road. I had my two young children (ages XXX and XXX) in the car, making the situation extremely unsafe and traumatic. The vehicle lost all mobility and provided no opportunity to safely pull over. After contacting Hyundai Corporate multiple times, a case manager was eventually assigned to my case. At Hyundai’s request, I towed the vehicle to AutoNation Hyundai Valencia for diagnostic evaluation. The dealership diagnosed the issue as error code P0A78, indicating a transmission failure. Hyundai Corporate offered to cover 60% of the repair cost, leaving me responsible for the remaining 40%—an amount that exceeds the current value of the vehicle. This proposed resolution is not reasonable considering the severity of the safety risk and the vehicle’s low mileage. My primary concern is that this is an extremely dangerous defect, as the vehicle loses all power without warning, leaving the driver unable to move the car to a safe location. Requested Actions: A formal investigation into the safety and reliability of Hyundai’s hybrid systems, specifically in 2014 Sonata Hybrid vehicles. A determination of whether this defect qualifies under Hyundai’s warranty or federal safety defect regulations. Full compensation from Hyundai Corporate to cover 100% of the repair costs to correct this serious safety issue. Thank you for your time and attention to this critical matter. I look forward to your prompt response and appropriate action. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11667606June 18, 2025
ENGINE, FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM, EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Engine light is blinking and put safety of my family in danger. I called the close Huyndai dealer also I have a case number. However, it takes forever for them to answer. I only have this car. I am driver and this how I make living. I have no choice in driving this recall vehicle and kill my self and my family. No body care!
Crash:
No
Fire:
Yes
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11667810June 18, 2025
POWER TRAIN
Vehicle's engine seized completely at 75 MPH on the interstate. No warning lights or abnormal noises were present before catastrophic failure, and the car has been serviced recently. CEL came on at time of failure, throws code P1326. Car rapidly/dangerously decelerated, would have crashed if not driving in the Leftmost lane of travel.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11666942June 14, 2025
POWER TRAIN, ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Formal Complaint – Hybrid System Failure, Safety Risk (VIN: [XXX] | Hyundai Case #[XXX]) Dear Sir/Madam, I am writing to file a formal safety complaint regarding a dangerous incident involving my Hyundai hybrid vehicle (VIN: [XXX] ) and Hyundai Motor America's failure to respond meaningfully to repeated requests for assistance. Incident Summary: On [XXX], while driving with my two young children (ages [XXX] and [XXX] ), my vehicle suddenly displayed the following critical warnings: “Hybrid System Warning! Safely Stop and Do Not Drive” “Check Charging System” Immediately after these messages appeared, the car lost all power and came to a complete stop in the middle of the road. This created an extremely hazardous and distressing situation for me and my family. Although the vehicle is a few years old, it has very low mileage (38,345 miles), and I did not expect such a catastrophic failure. I submitted a report to Hyundai Customer Support on May 30, 2025 (Case #[XXX]) and followed up on June 9, 2025, but have only received an automated acknowledgment—no response, investigation, or support to date. Attachments: A video clip showing the warning messages at the time of the incident (I cannot upload the video clip since the option is not there, but I do have it if required) Requested Actions: A formal investigation into the safety and reliability of Hyundai's hybrid systems. A determination as to whether this incident qualifies under Hyundai’s warranty or federal safety defect regulations. Immediate contact from Hyundai with the next steps regarding inspection, resolution, or compensation. I am cc’ing Hyundai Motor America to ensure this matter is escalated appropriately and receives the attention it warrants. Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to your timely response. Sincerely, [XXX] [XXX] [XXX] [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11663736May 29, 2025
SERVICE BRAKES, ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
the car has abruptly applied braking while driving. I took the car to get checked after that and i was told that there was nothing wrong except that the pads will need to be change sooner than later. I mechanic did tell me that it could be a safety issue because it was an uncontrollable. I than took the car to the Hyundai dealer for them to diagnose the car. They proposed that i change everything, including the brake pedal, which to me, sounded very fishy. One week ago, while driving, the car suddenly jammed on the brakes again. This particular time, it was also emitting smoke, either from the front or the bottom.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11661719May 18, 2025
ENGINE
When I was trying to accelerate, my gas pedal just wasn't responding at all and the engine, oil, and battery light all came on. When that happened my car shut down and I coasted to a stop.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11659621May 7, 2025
ENGINE
While driving my 2014 Hyundai Sonata on [XXX], the engine suddenly stalled without warning. I was in motion on a public road when the vehicle lost power, forcing me to safely pull over. There were no warning lights, check engine lights, or prior signs of engine trouble before the failure occurred. I had the vehicle towed to a certified Hyundai dealership (Norm Reeves Hyundai Superstore in Cerritos), where I was told the engine failed due to rod bearing failure caused by oil starvation. The dealership stated that the engine needed to be replaced. However, I have maintained the vehicle regularly, with consistent oil changes and maintenance, and I have documentation to prove this. Despite this, Hyundai has refused assistance and claims "exceptional maintenance neglect" without showing inspection photos or detailed evidence. This engine failure fits the exact pattern of a known engine defect already under recall for similar Hyundai models and engines, including issues with oil passages and rod bearings that lead to sudden engine failure. These vehicles have been involved in class-action lawsuits and recall campaigns for this reason. This sudden failure put my safety and that of others at risk, as the engine lost power in traffic without any prior warning. I am requesting NHTSA investigate whether this issue is part of the broader defect already under recall, and whether Hyundai is avoiding responsibility by misclassifying valid cases. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11658788May 4, 2025
ENGINE
While driving on the highway, the engine of my 2014 Hyundai Sonata suddenly seized without any prior warning. There were no preceding symptoms such as warning lights, unusual noises, or performance issues that might have indicated an impending failure. At the time of the engine seizure, I also lost power steering and power brakes, which severely compromised my ability to control the vehicle and led to a dangerous situation in fast-moving traffic. I later discovered that vehicles equipped with the Theta II engine have experienced similar issues, suggesting a potential safety-related defect. I am reporting this incident as a serious safety concern and request that NHTSA investigate this matter further.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11657892April 30, 2025
ENGINE, UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Car transmission replaced with only 38,000 miles. Car shutters, skip gears, loss of power. Very dangerous especially when pulling out from side road on to main road. Transmission problem starts out as intermittent at first, so you never know when it will happen next. Lots of near misses where I would have been rear ended, due to shifting problems. New Transmission is already starting to shift erratically at times with only 2,000 miles on new rebuilt trans. Cost of repair is 5 to 6,000. Also own 2012 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid with the same exact transmission problems. Transmission replaced at 67,000 and now at repair shop for replacement Trans at 124,000 miles. Vin [XXX] . Both of these cars are dangerous to drive. These problems start out intermittently, and if the dealership cannot duplicate the problem, they will not fix anything, hoping to string you along past the warranty period. I tell them to check the fault code history and they tell me that they did not find any error codes. Both these cars also have the defective engine too- but so far my engines are working correctly. Invoices can be provided if needed. Found research shows that there are transmission problems with almost all generations of the Sonata's especially my 2 years - 2012 and 2014. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0

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