Hyundai Sonata Complaints

17,026 consumer complaints on file.

#11672013July 8, 2025
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
The contact owned a 2018 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated that upon her daughter reaching her destination, she observed brown smoke emanating from the engine compartment. Within a short while, the vehicle became completely engulfed in flames, prompting a bystander to attempt to extinguish the fire with a fire extinguisher, but was unsuccessful. Local emergency services arrived and were able to extinguish the flames. A fire report was filed, and it was indicated that the fire may have been electrical, but an exact cause had not been determined. A police report was filed, and no injuries were reported. The vehicle was towed to a tow yard and deemed a total loss by the contact's insurance provider. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 125,000.
Crash:
No
Fire:
Yes
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11672014July 8, 2025
ENGINE
Crack oil pan
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11672070July 8, 2025
STEERING
My EPS light comes on and my steering wheel locks up the dealership says that isn’t a recall but I can pull it up and it says my car was affected by the sonata electric power steering control module recall . It’s on [XXX] it’s a very unsafe for me and other drivers because I don’t know when it will come on and it comes on when I’m driving at random times 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
#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
#11671554July 7, 2025
STEERING
Power steering fails intermittently
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11671656July 7, 2025
ENGINE
My 2018 Hyundai Sonata caught fire unexpectedly while parked. The engine suddenly began smoking, then the vehicle ignited and was severely damaged. I am still financing the vehicle through Capital One. After researching, I discovered that my vehicle’s engine is part of a known Hyundai recall due to fire risk (Theta II engine defect). I had no prior warning or engine-related issues that would have predicted this. I strongly believe the fire was caused by a manufacturing defect, and I’m requesting that NHTSA investigate Hyundai’s handling of this issue and ensure victims like myself are compensated — even if not physically injured. I can provide photos, a fire report, and additional documentation if needed. Please let me know the next steps or if I qualify for any related recall recovery programs.
Crash:
No
Fire:
Yes
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11671343July 5, 2025
ENGINE
I am writing to request your assistance in enforcing the terms of the class action settlement and extended warranty coverage for my 2017 Hyundai Sonata (VIN: [XXX] ). Despite clear evidence of a defective Theta II engine, Hyundai Corporate has refused to authorize a full engine replacement unless the engine “blows” completely. This directly conflicts with the express terms of the “In re: Hyundai and Kia Engine Litigation” settlement, which requires Hyundai to cover any engine exhibiting failure‐mode symptoms. Below, I have summarized all relevant facts, diagnoses, and correspondence. I purchased this Sonata used from Oakes Kia (Kansas City, MO) in May 2023. At the time of purchase, the vehicle had 77,000 miles. To my knowledge, I am the third owner of this vehicle. Since I bought this car, I have followed the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule: All routine oil changes (every 5,000 miles, or sooner) at Oakes Kia, plus one oil change at Northtowne Hyundai in April 2025. The engine currently has approximately 98,650 miles. I have driven it about 1,000 miles since December 2024 to avoid further damage and due to the danger, it puts me and others in on the road. Since December the vehicle has had persistent shaking, hesitation on acceleration, strong odor, and illuminated Check Engine Light. Car condition has worsened since last oil change and even after coil packs and spark plugs were replaced, there was no improvement. The last oil change was done at Oakes Kia along with a tire rotation and multi-point inspection. They Installed UM018 CH074: Mobil SP 5W30 SN, 21513 23001: Gasket-oil plug and 26300 35505: Filter assy-engine O Service Advisor, Fernando Perez said they did not identify root cause of the shaking, hesitation and strong odor; they instructed me to return to the mechanic who had replaced spark plugs/coil packs, possibly I got a bad spark plug or coil pack. I did this, it was not the problem. I have files to share but they are too big! INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATIO
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11671367July 5, 2025
STEERING, ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Steering wheel warning light comes on traction control light comes on. Steering becomes difficult
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11671246July 4, 2025
ENGINE, POWER TRAIN, FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
The engine shuts off, doesn’t start, check engine light flashing, losses power, jerks while driving it, i will get it up yo speed then will shut off or won’t move.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11670978July 3, 2025
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
The Inattentive Driving Warning goes off excessively, causing distraction even in heavy traffic. Over a 2 hour drive, the Inattentive Driving Warning would alert approximately every 30 minutes regardless of traffic or driving conditions. The sound, which lasted approximately 1 to 2 seconds, and alert display caused me to momentarily turn my attention to the instrument cluster, rather than the road, while I was traveling at highway speeds in variable traffic. Previous model years allowed you to turn off this function, but this is no longer the case. Hyundai even confesses the inaccuracy of the system within the manual and has sent out notice of ways to lower incidences on different models vehicles.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11671018July 3, 2025
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
Car is a Sonata Hybrid Limited equipped with a solar roof which charges the hybrid battery. Vehicle began to cut off battery power while parked, requiring the use of a factory equipped 12V override switch in March 2025 after approximately 3.5 years of ownership. This occurred multiple times, often when the car was parked in the sun but independent of how long it had been driven prior or how long it had sat without being started. Evaluated by two Hyundai dealers; second dealer found a fault in the "solar DCDC converter" as well as the hybrid battery bulging. Battery module replaced. Unclear if this resolves the issue or it will recur again. Am speaking to Hyundai regarding battery warranty extension as vehicle had 88000 miles on it at the time of the issue starting. Online fora (e.g., Reddit, Facebook) note other customers who have had similar problems with similar fixes. - [XXX] - [XXX] - [XXX] - one individual in this thread had complete power loss while driving down the highway This issue potentially risks stranding customers, and if the hybrid battery continues to bulge increases the risk of fire which could lead to property damage, personal injury, or death. 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
#11670699July 2, 2025
ENGINE
I am filing a formal safety complaint regarding excessive engine oil consumption in my 2019 Hyundai Sonata. The vehicle, with approximately 90,000 miles, experienced a complete loss of engine oil without any visible leaks. The low oil warning light appeared intermittently and ultimately revealed the oil level had dropped to zero, posing a severe risk of engine seizure and potential accident. This issue appears to be consistent with known problems related to the 2.4L GDI engines used in Hyundai vehicles from this period. Hyundai has issued TSB 20-01-002H, acknowledging excessive oil consumption in certain models. Yet, many affected vehicles, including mine, may fall outside warranty despite being within a reasonable usage period. I am requesting that NHTSA review the extent of this issue and consider whether a formal investigation, recall, or manufacturer enforcement action is appropriate. This engine defect presents a clear safety hazard, especially if failure occurs during highway driving. Thank you for your attention to this matter.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11670759July 2, 2025
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
Something went wrong in the fuel tank that caused it to become so pressurized that the tank expanded up and out so far that it pushed the exhaust pipe down and my back seat of out place. The only issue I had was the car was accelerating slower than usual but it wasn’t even enough of a difference for someone who didn’t drive it every day to be able to tell. It did this for two days then the check engine light came on and it just read “powertrain”. Began slow acceleration on 06.08.2025. Check engine light came on the night of 06.09.2025. I took it to the dealership 06.10.2025. I immediately took it into the dealership and they told me the car could have exploded. There was a previous recall for the fuel pump that I had replaced at the dealership. After seeing my car, they said their techs and the techs at HMA have never seen one this bad and that maybe after replacing the recall part the system update failed in my vehicle and the issue was never actually resolved.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11670726July 2, 2025
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
Fuel Lines and Connections / Fuel Tank Band / Fuel Tank Vapor Vent System Hoses [XXX]: My check engine light illuminated. I immediately returned to Hyundai Riverdale. They advised me it could be the fuel tank and stated they needed to keep the car for 5-7 business days. May 1, 2025: I dropped off my car for inspection, having made arrangements for a personal rental car. May 7, 2025: I received a text message (no phone call) indicating the inspection was complete and was presented with a $3500 bill to replace the entire fuel tank. May 9 or 12, 2025: Marilyn from Hyundai Riverdale called me regarding my vehicle. She explicitly suggested I "contact your insurance company, advise them you hit something on the road, pay the deductible, and they will pay for the repairs." She then stated, "I know you hit something after April 9th because your fuel tank is now damaged." I denied hitting anything. During this call, she mentioned a "RECALL" related to fuel tanks on all Hyundai Sonatas, which I was never previously made aware of. I questioned why I was being charged if there was a recall for the exact issue I was experiencing. She claimed my car was previously checked and the fuel tank was fine, therefore the cost fell to me. May 14, 2025: Merilyn called to inquire if my insurance would cover the repairs. I informed her I was picking up my vehicle as another Hyundai dealership in Newnan was willing to perform the recall repairs for free. Upon arrival at Riverdale, I faced resistance but demanded my car be released. I was then charged a $200 inspection fee, which I refused to pay. Marilyn then provided my keys and, upon learning I planned to drive to Newnan, stated, "I wouldn't feel right letting you drive this car off the lot and something happening to you. Your vehicle at any moment can blow up due to the fuel tank. It's very dangerous to drive and suggest you get a tow truck." April 11-May 1st I drove that vehicle w/no idea it had the potential to blow up. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATI
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11670446July 1, 2025
ENGINE
Engine consumes excessive amount of oil, approximately 5 quarts every 1,000 miles. No leaks found when taken for inspection.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11670632July 1, 2025
ENGINE
The contact owns a 2023 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated that while driving 75 MPH, the vehicle briefly lost motive power before downshifting to a lower gear. In addition, the engine revved independently. The contact was able to pull over to the side of the road and turned off the vehicle. The contact was able to restart the vehicle; however, the vehicle failed to exceed 60 MPH. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The failure persisted, and the vehicle was no longer being driven. The contact parked the vehicle at the residence. The contact started the vehicle and the check engine warning light illuminated. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 34,000.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11670129June 30, 2025
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Every day the car is dead, have to take the manual key out pop door cover off unlock car manually push the 12v reset button and hold fob to start/stop button for car to work again. Happens daily.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11670311June 30, 2025
ENGINE
while driving on the highway the engine caught fire.
Crash:
No
Fire:
Yes
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11670368June 30, 2025
ENGINE
I purchased a 2013 Hyundai Sonata in 2022. I never had any problems or warning signs of vehicle until late Feb 2025. The engine begin to making a knocking sound and stalling almost causing my son to have an accident. After researching the issue I found that there had been a law suit filed against this company for the engines in those vehicles and that they had placed a limited lifetime warranty on the engine in my vehicle. I reached out to Hyundai and they assured me that my vehicle was covered under the TXXI warranty due to the class action suit filed against them. Next they set up an appointment for me to take the vehicle to the local Hyundai dealership which was Bentley Hyundai in Huntsville, Alabama. I had the vehicle towed there in March 2025 and was immediately met with unprofessional dialogue on my arrival. I explained that an agent from Hyundai corporate had set and appointment for that day but was told that they had no knowledge of it. They received the car and stated that diagnostics had to run on it and that they had to send the paperwork back to corporate for approval to replace/repair the engine. About a week later after unsuccessful attempts to contact the dealership, I was informed that my claim was denied due to maintenance neglect. Once I asked for further clarification the associate told me that it “looked like the oil had never been changed in the vehicle”. I assured him that it had been maintained properly since the date I purchased it. They pulled the carfax and was able to verify all of my maintenance records and that the vehicle never went over 5000 miles before oil changes. I then asked to speak to a supervisor as the rep began to be very disrespectful in his tone and language (which was always by text and not phone). The service manager that I spoke to after this helped escalate the situation to the appeals department. This was a known issue for these motors and the fact that they would put my family’s lives in jeopardy is upsurd.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11669971June 28, 2025
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM, ENGINE
Driving on the highway ih35N at 75 mph, my car's engine randomly started violently jerking and then shut off and wouldn't start back up. Had it towed to Hyundai (2022 Hyundai Sonata ~33k miles) took a few days but they repaired it under warranty saying it was bad fuel injectors and they replaced all 4. My car just dying on the highway could of caused a bad accident at that speed. Moving to present day (June 28th, 2025) car is at 56,400 miles and its starting to jerk at low speeds and is getting terrible gas mileage again. I'm taking it back in as I am still under warranty but everything points to fuel injectors again. Only warning lights I get was when the car died on the highway. Just a check engine light.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0

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