Hyundai Sonata Complaints

17,026 consumer complaints on file.

#11678782August 6, 2025
ENGINE
I purchased this 2011 Hyundai Sonata (VIN: [XXX]) on [XXX]. A few weeks later, the engine started knocking, wouldn’t shift beyond 2nd gear, and wouldn’t go over 60 mph. A diagnostic test at Express Oil returned the error code P1326, which is tied to Hyundai’s Recall Campaign 132 for engine failure due to bearing wear. I brought the car to Serra Hyundai in Trussville, AL. I provided my bill of sale, diagnostic code, and a recent oil change receipt, but Hyundai denied my engine replacement, saying there was a gap in service history between 2021 and 2025 — even though I was not the owner during that time. They confirmed it was a recall-eligible engine and admitted the failure matches the recall symptoms, yet are refusing to fix it — while also suggesting I “trade the car in” instead. This is a known safety defect, and I believe Hyundai is wrongfully denying legitimate recall repairs based on ownership history rather than actual engine failure. I am now without a working vehicle. I respectfully request that NHTSA investigate Hyundai’s denial of engine replacements under Campaign 132 for new owners and hold them accountable. 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
#11678903August 6, 2025
ENGINE, FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
Urgent Complaint About Repeated Engine Issues on 2018 Hyundai Sonata (VIN: [XXX] ) Hello, I’m writing to file a formal complaint regarding a 2018 Hyundai Sonata, VIN [XXX] , currently financed and still owing $9,700, but the vehicle is no longer reliable or functional. For over a year, the car has had constant mechanical issues, primarily: •Spark plug failures within weeks of replacement •Repeated misfiring •Constant oil consumption — requiring oil refills every few days •No clear cause ever detected by diagnostic machines Despite replacing the top engine cover, spark plugs, filters, and performing other repairs, the car continues to break down and remains unsafe to drive. These issues began shortly after the 2-year warranty expired in 2023, and have escalated rapidly. This has caused severe financial hardship for my family, who still have to pay nearly $10,000 on a loan for a failing vehicle. I am requesting Hyundai to investigate whether this vehicle qualifies for: •An engine recall, hidden warranty, or class action settlement •A buyback or goodwill repair 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
#11678914August 6, 2025
ENGINE
The engine was eating up oil and failed. I have regularly had to get oil changes within 1000 miles of each other. Kept oil in my car like spare gasoline to top off every 4-7 days. Took my car in immediately when the check engine light came on to which the dealership said I have been negligent in my oil changes. The check engine light never came on prior, and I had an oil change the day before it did come on. It put my safety at risk because the engine could have just burst at any moment, and to my knowledge nothing was wrong since I was regularly putting oil in or getting an oil change. Yes the issue has been confirmed by the dealership. There was no warning other than the low oil light continuously coming on. I took it into the dealership last Spring to which they said there was no issue.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11678701August 6, 2025
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE, ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING, POWER TRAIN
The contact owned a 2018 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle sputtered, jerked, and lost motive power. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was able to restart but made an abnormal ticking sound. The vehicle was taken to the dealer but was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 72,000.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11678866August 6, 2025
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
I am writing to formally file a complaint regarding Hyundai’s Recall Campaign 216, which involves a safety defect related to the windshield assemblies of certain Hyundai vehicles. Despite the recall being issued to address the risk of inadequate windshield adhesion due to non-conforming clear coat paint, I have been unable to get my vehicle repaired. I contacted my local Hyundai dealership promptly after learning about the recall; however, they informed me that they were unable to perform the repair at the time due to not having a glass technician on staff/on site. I made multiple phone calls after anticipating the service manager’s follow up, as she promised, with dates a glass technician could be on site. I never heard back after leaving various voicemails or being put through to the wrong departments. This delay is concerning because the recall notice specifically outlines the increased risk of injury in a crash if the windshield is not adequately retained. As a concerned vehicle owner, I am left driving a potentially unsafe vehicle without any clarity on when a proper remedy will be available. I urge the NHTSA to investigate this matter and ensure that Hyundai and its dealerships are prepared and properly equipped to carry out the necessary recall repairs in a timely manner, in alignment with their safety responsibilities. I have attached the email received 7/31 from Hyundai following my customer service complaint I submitted 7/9. Please let me know if any additional documentation or vehicle information is required.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11678403August 5, 2025
ENGINE
My car 2015 (Hyundai Sonata)started leaking oil, it only had 50,000 miles. my mechanic said the motor had too much pressure and kept pushing oil out. He advised me to take it to the dealership for a motor recall. The dealership gave it back with a list of things to fix. replaced the valve cover gasket but still leaked oil. I found out these cars have an oil leak problems that are not being addressed. My car went up in flames 2 weeks later. I have done everything I could to save this car but nothing saved it. My grandkids were in the car and it had traumatized them.
Crash:
No
Fire:
Yes
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11678429August 5, 2025
ENGINE, POWER TRAIN, VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
I am leasing a 2017 Hyundai Sonata from Car City in Michigan. In May 2025, the vehicle received a brand-new engine replacement due to previous problems. I picked the car up on [XXX], and on the same day, the vehicle began malfunctioning. It would not accelerate properly, jerked and stalled, and multiple warning lights — including the check engine light — came on immediately. This made the car unsafe to drive. I contacted the dealer, but they told me to wait until Monday to get it looked at, leaving me with a dangerous and unreliable car. The vehicle had already been in the shop for over two months for the engine issue, and I had only driven it for six months beforehand. I believe the repair or replacement engine is defective or was not properly installed. This creates a serious safety hazard. A car that stalls while driving puts everyone at risk. I am filing this complaint so this issue can be investigated and addressed if others are affected. 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
#11678509August 5, 2025
ENGINE
Engine failure. Happened in the middle of the beltway in dc. Was left in the middle of traffic had to get car towed. No lights were on prior to this happening. Seems everyone i have talked to with a senata has had engine failure and has ultimately got a new one replaced by the delorship. The 2016 isn't on the recall list only models 2011-2014. But I have heard of numerous 2015-2016 models having the same issue. This car barley had 110k miles on it before the engine failure. These vehicles are not safe and there needs to be something done. It is currently being looked at by delorship. Im hoping for the best.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11678512August 5, 2025
SERVICE BRAKES
I recently purchased a 2025 Hyundai Sonata. I’m writing to raise a concern regarding the height of the brake pedal in this vehicle. Both my wife and I have observed that the brake pedal seems noticeably higher than the gas pedal. This positioning requires extra effort to lift the foot during normal driving, and we are concerned that it may delay reaction time when moving from the accelerator to the brake — especially in emergency situations. I contacted the service department at the dealership to inquire if this pedal height is standard and whether any adjustment is possible. However, I have not received a response. I would appreciate it if you could confirm: Is the brake pedal height in the 2025 Hyundai Sonata within your design standards? If any manufacturer-recommended adjustments or modifications could improve pedal accessibility and response time. This is a significant safety concern for my family, and I would be grateful for your prompt attention and guidance.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11678150August 4, 2025
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
The contact owns a 2019 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated that within the 4-5 months of vehicle ownership, the vehicle experienced excessive oil consumption. The contact stated that oil had been added to the vehicle approximately 8-9 times and an oil change had been completed twice. The contact stated while driving at various speeds, there was an abnormal rattling sound coming from the front of the vehicle. The check engine warning light was illuminated intermittently. The vehicle was taken to the dealer to be diagnosed, but the cause of the failure could not be determined. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 81,000.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11678234August 4, 2025
ENGINE, POWER TRAIN
The engine in my 2017 Hyundai Sonata has been burning excessive amounts of engine oil over an extended period. The issue started approximately 10,000 miles ago but has worsened recently, requiring frequent oil top-offs between regular oil changes. The oil consumption is abnormal and not consistent with normal wear. This excessive oil burning poses a potential safety risk, including possible engine failure, stalling, or fire hazard due to low oil levels if not monitored carefully. The vehicle has not yet experienced a complete failure but the risk concerns me. The problem has been observed consistently during normal driving conditions. I have not yet had an official inspection or oil consumption test performed by a dealer, but I intend to request one. There have been no warning lights related to the oil burning issue, but the oil level drops rapidly and noticeably.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11678037August 3, 2025
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Without warning, symptoms of the A/C blower not working first occurred a little over a month ago. The fan just stopped blowing altogether (no cold or hot air). After turning the car and the A/C system on and off several times, it began working again and that was it. This past week, the same issue occurred intermittently over 3-4 days. The A/C blower did not come on for a day, the next morning it was functioning, that evening it stopped blowing again, and this went on for several days. Research of the symptoms via YouTube and many online forums, and most importantly confirmation through visual inspection of the fuse box, confirmed that the BLOWER fuse is burning so bad it has melted the connecting port in the fuse box. Whatever the electrical malfunction, the fuse burning and melting is disrupting the connection and ultimately the A/C blower itself. In the dead of such a hot and humid summer, it has been insufferable having to ride around with such inconsistent and intermittent air conditioning.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11678048August 3, 2025
AIR BAGS, EXTERIOR LIGHTING, UNKNOWN OR OTHER
To Whom It May Concern, Subject: Formal Complaint – 2011 Hyundai Sonata GLS Tail Light Meltdown / Fire Hazard Date: August 3, 2025 I am writing to formally report a serious safety issue with my 2011 Hyundai Sonata GLS, specifically concerning the tail light assembly, which has melted and poses a potential fire hazard and traffic safety risk. Approximately a year and a half ago, I noticed melting in the tail light housing and took the vehicle to a Hyundai dealership to address the issue. At that time, the car had approximately 208,000 miles. Despite the obvious manufacturing defect and safety implications, the dealership refused to repair or inspect the issue without charging a $275 inspection fee, stating the vehicle was out of warranty. I believe this to be an unfair and irresponsible business practice. Tail light assemblies should not melt under normal use, and such a defect could lead to: Electrical fires Brake light failure (increasing the risk of rear-end collisions) Potential traffic citations for inoperative brake lights Damage to other vehicles or individuals I have already notified Hyundai Motor Corporation about this issue, placing them on notice that should any damages or incidents occur as a result of this defect, they may be held liable. This is not a minor cosmetic issue but a major safety defect, and I strongly urge the NHTSA to investigate whether this is an isolated issue or part of a wider trend affecting Hyundai and Kia vehicles. If so, a safety recall may be warranted. I also intend to report this situation to the Indiana Attorney General's Office as a matter of consumer protection and product safety. I have been backwards and forwards with the Hyundai Corporation Via and Emails...... I look forward to a prompt response. Please!
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11678065August 3, 2025
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, ENGINE
car turned off at light all lights work and turns on engine won’t roll over the battery and alternator and starter are all good
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11678101August 3, 2025
ENGINE
Burning a lot of oil had car 11 months only drove a few month,now it’s a tapping sound dealer where i purchase will not help nor will Hyundai dealer 15,000$ out the window now I need to get the lifters fix I can’t take it. I feel like I’ve been had. Now I got to figure to fix the car out of pocket however o haven’t had the car 1 year yet 81,000 miles.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11677935August 2, 2025
ENGINE
I bought this sonata one month ago. Driving down [XXX] in bonita springs Fla the car shut down. No noise all dash lights came on I got to a safe place. Sat in the parking lot of fresh market for at least 30 minutes went to start it and nothing happened. No crank nothing. AAA came towed it to my house. The filling day I checked the battery it is good. So had it towed to Scotty’s automotive. They called me Friday morning and said the motor was locked up. According to Carfax the car was at brand ton Hyundai in May of 25. I called after I bought the car Carfax said they found the alignment was off. I called to see if they did the alignment they said they did not do it. The wholesale it. My thinking is they did service it according to Carfax report and knew there was signs something and wholesale it. I did not buy it from Brandon Hyundai I bought it from a guy in Leigh acres Fla. 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
#11677707August 1, 2025
ENGINE, POWER TRAIN
Constant losing oil, constant changing of spark plugs, car shaking, can't pick up speed
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11677403July 31, 2025
AIR BAGS
Srs light on. Problem code indicates high resistance on driver's side air bag. Dealer said it was the airbag control module, but refused to give me the actual estimate or anything in writing other than problem description. There was a recall for other 2013 sonata airbag control modules, mine was not included apparently, but it has the same issue as the recalled ones. Dealer wants $3000 to replace the module.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11677410July 31, 2025
AIR BAGS
The airbag warning light in my car is always ON, it won't go OFF. It was repaired by Hyundai service center under an extended warranty a few years back but now they said that they won't fix it again.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11677493July 31, 2025
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
My starter failed after 35,683 miles leaving me stranded in a parking lot at night. The life expectancy for a starter is between 100,000and 150,000 miles. Hyundai replaced the part at a cost of $1,139 which is way above what it normally costs to replace a starter. The starter is at the dealership and is not available for inspection. Being stranded in a parking lot made me very uncomfortable and what if the starter had failed in a bad section of town. The problem was confirmed by a Hyundai dealership who replaced the part after I had my vehicle towed to their service department. The only ones who inspected the vehicle was a mechanic at the dealership. There wer no warning lamps or messages, but I did notice the car did not start on the first try before the starter failed. 07/29/2025
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0

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