Hyundai Sonata Complaints

17,026 consumer complaints on file.

#11650171March 24, 2025
POWER TRAIN
While traveling on local roads and highways the vehicle transmission randomly down-shifts one or two gears. This has occurred when traveling in any gear from gears 3 through 6. It probably doesn't happen in 2nd gear because that is a transitory gear and not a cruising gear. After quickly moving the shifter from automatic mode into manual mode and then back into automatic mode the transmission returns to the proper gear. However sometimes it has down shifted again in as little as 30 to 60 seconds after resetting the shifter. This has been happening for years. The dealership has been unable to fix it. Because it is random, the issue is not readily reproducible by the repair shop. Sometimes it has happened several times within a 15 minute period. Sometimes it has occured multiple consecutive days. Other times a week or two has passed with no incident.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11650257March 24, 2025
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
The contact owns a 2015 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated that while driving at approximately 30 MPH, the vehicle lost motive power. The contact depressed the accelerator pedal; however, the vehicle failed to respond as needed. The contact stated that the vehicle stalled, and there were several unknown warning lights illuminated. The contact stated that prior to the engine failure, engine oil needed to be added every week. The contact had taken the vehicle to a local dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that the engine had seized and needed to be replaced. The dealer informed the contact that the vehicle was not eligible for an engine replacement because an engine software update had not been performed. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was informed of the failure and confirmed that the engine could not be replaced before the software update had not been performed. The failure mileage was approximately 122,000.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11650219March 24, 2025
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
I have had this car checked out 3 times and on my way to the 4th appointment. I can be in the middle of the road or pulled up in my driveway the RPMs go crazy shuts off every light comes on then clicks and I have to waite and try to restart. This car has been a problem since we bought it brand new even the chrome has come loose on it. Took to 1 dealership they said it's not throwing a code so nothing they can do I pulled out of the dealership onto the busy highway and the rims went crazy lights came on and it died called the mechanic that said nothing was wrong he came out got it running took it back came back said nothing showing up so there was nothing he could do. I'm driving another 3 hours away hoping I make it to another dealership that said they would look at it after I sent pictures and a video to the mechanic. I will NEVER buy another hyundai again and definitely tell anyone I know not to.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11649996March 23, 2025
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
My pearl white 2015 Hyundai Sonata Sport’s paint is chipping off while im driving causing paint chips to fly which has almost caused me to wreck. This is happening on the trunk roof and passenger front door.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11649652March 21, 2025
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
The contact owns a 2014 Hyundai Sonata. While driving at various speeds, the steering wheel was shaking and jumping, with the headlights flickering, and the steering wheel lost resistance, and became easier to maneuver. While turning the vehicle either to the left or the right, there was a vibrating sound coming from underneath the hood of the vehicle. After the sound occurred, the contact noticed that after turning off the vehicle and then attempting to restart the vehicle, the vehicle failed to start. The contact manually moved the serpentine belt first to successfully start the vehicle. The exterior lights failed to illuminate intermittently. The air bag and battery failure warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 17V226000 (Engine and Engine Cooling); and the vehicle was taken to the dealer and the engine was replaced. After having the recall repair completed, the failure reoccurred. The vehicle was returned to the dealer, who then diagnosed the battery was malfunctioning due to a loosened terminal. The terminal was tightened up however, the failure persisted. The vehicle was taken to a certified mechanic who tightened the terminal; however, the failure persisted. The vehicle was taken to another certified mechanic who placed an aluminum piece to assist with securing the terminal. The failure reoccurred. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was 138,000.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11649715March 21, 2025
ENGINE
From: [XXX] [XXX] [XXX] I have attempted to make a Better Business Complaint against Hyundai Corporate Office Headquarters 10550 Talbert Ave. Fountain Valley, CA 92708-6031 USA, but I am being blocked from filling out a complaint; attempts to make a complaint against the Hyundai Corporation results in being forwarded to a NULLED screen. NO ONE IS ALLOWED TO FILL OUT A BBB COMPLAINT AGAINST THIS BUSINESS! On [XXX] my wife could have been killed when driving her 2011 Hyundai Sonata (VIN [XXX] ) on the highway when her engine stalled out having to take evasive action not to cause an accident. Note my wife is [XXX]. According to a former Hyundai technician at Schmidt Auto Care (285a Hiawatha Trail, Springboro, OH [937] 514-7860 said there is an open recall (T3G) on this vehicle which is for engine replacement. Schmidt Auto care technician said “the oil ports were drilled wrong in the engine causing them to go out after 100,000 miles.” On March 20, 2025 Ian Clemons Service Advisor at Voss Hyundai (766 Miamisburg – Centerville Road, Centerville, Ohio 45459 [937] 428-2416) stated, “From the pictures of the valve cover it is obvious the engine has had the oil changes because it is super clean, but Hyundai is wanting all the oil change records” (which have been lost in a move). And because of it they won’t replace the engine even though Ian Clemons is advocating for it knowing that it is just thing for Hyundai to do. Case ([XXX] Hyundai Customer Care 1-800-633-5151) Hyundai is trying to hide this recall, calling it an extended warranty on the engine and the public needs to be warned knowing my wife could have been killed by this engine defect and Hyundai needs to make this wrong a right. I ask for your help to resolve this matter of public safety. Thank-you, [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
#11649506March 20, 2025
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the low oil warning light illuminated, the vehicle had been in for service just days prior to the warning light being illuminated. After a visual inspection of the oil dipstick, the contact observed that the oil level was abnormally low. The vehicle was not taken to the dealer or an independent mechanic. 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, and the contact was referred to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was 110,000.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11649631March 20, 2025
STRUCTURE:BODY, UNKNOWN OR OTHER
After driving for a few minutes with the sunroof open the wind deflector pulled and nearly off the car. This had been repaired previously under a recall and the repair was simply to re-glue the wind deflector back in place. This had clearly been done before as the dried glue was still on it. The back end of the sunroof nearly came off during this ordeal while we were traveling at highway speeds and it could have killed someone. We were able to close the sunroof once we had stopped, however it was very difficult to do so and required four of us, each with tools that I happened to have in the car at the time. Had we not been able to get the sunroof back closed it surely would have been ripped from the car. Another recall needs to be put into place and an improved correction needs to be put into place.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11649158March 19, 2025
ENGINE
FAIL/MALFUNCTION 3/18/25: Internal engine failure diagnosed by local Avondale, AZ Hyundai dealership service - rod bearing failure suspected. Vehicle currently undergoing Bearing Clearance Test to affirm this or any connecting rod issues, with possible need for total engine replacement. When googling "Hyundai Sonata hybrid 2017 internal engine failure," masses of reports generate from consumers with this model, complaining of same defect, as do numerous recalls for such defects that have been mandated for the model with range of years including 2017.Yet when searching with my VIN, it says no recalls have been mandated, in spite of the undeniable, widespread identical defect. Available for inspection. SAFETY RISK: Driving on the freeway in city traffic at 70-75mph, the engine completely stopped and all dash lights lit up at once. Vehicle had to be coasted to shoulder to wait for roadside assistance. Extremely hazardous to us in vehicle and to all around us with sudden, dramatic speed change in moving, constant freeway traffic. First time: Our usual mechanics at Pep Boys did diagnostic but found nothing, the vehicle drove normally for them, yet they did our regular tune-up, oil change, etc. Two weeks later, the same event happened on freeway, identical to first time. We were very lucky that no crashes happened either time. Pep Boys advised that Hyundai investigate the issue. PRIOR SYMPTOMS: No warning lights or sounds presented until the events themselves, when the entire dash lit up. However, in the couple of months before, there were occasional, slight hesitation moments in the motion while driving at any speed. CONCERNS: 1) It seems Hyundai is on track to want to charge me for an entire engine replacement, or for whatever engine repairs they deem, e.g. connecting rods, for manufacturing defects that they are entirely responsible for, 2) no recall seems to be mandated YET for this VIN batch, and 3) too many consumers are in danger - physically and financially.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11649263March 19, 2025
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
The contact owns a 2019 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated that the vehicle was consuming an excessive amount of engine oil. There was an abnormal knocking sound while depressing the accelerator pedal. The contact had to add oil to the engine after an oil change. The oil level had been low by one quart, three quarts, or even more on several occasions. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed that there was oil leaking from the gaskets. There was an internal leak in the engine. The dealer informed the contact about an oil consumption test. The dealer informed the contact about the associated fees. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was approximately 89,000.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11649300March 19, 2025
AIR BAGS, ENGINE, FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
On [XXX], in Washington, D.C., my 2013 Hyundai Sonata experienced sudden engine failure, leaving the vehicle inoperable. My goodwill repair request was denied within 30 minutes, without a proper inspection of the rod bearings (a known failure point covered under the TXXI extended warranty) or the fuel pipe recall—a known issue that could pose a fire hazard. Hyundai cited suspected maintenance neglect, but I have documentation of regular synthetic oil changes. Despite having over 200,000 miles, a Firestone inspection from September 2024 confirmed the vehicle was in good condition prior to the failure. Additionally, Hyundai Theta II engines are widely known to suffer from excessive oil consumption, a defect that can lead to premature engine failure even in well-maintained vehicles. Hyundai has replaced engines in vehicles with similar mileage under the same extended warranty, yet in this case, no proper inspection was conducted before denial. Safety Concerns: The fuel pipe recall was not inspected, raising concerns about whether unresolved recall defects are leading to engine failures or fire risks. The airbag clock spring, covered under Hyundai’s TXXA extended warranty, was not inspected, despite the airbag light being illuminated, potentially affecting airbag deployment in a crash. The vehicle failed without warning lights or error messages, creating an unsafe situation. Hyundai’s failure to inspect recall-related issues before denying repairs could impact other affected vehicles on the road. I request that the NHTSA: Ensure Hyundai properly inspects recall-related components before denying repairs. Investigate whether Hyundai is improperly denying warranty and recall-related repairs, even in cases where similar vehicles have received replacements. Determine if the unresolved fuel pipe recall and airbag clock spring defect pose broader safety risks. This issue has been reported to Hyundai corporate, but no proper inspection has been performed. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATIO
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11649335March 19, 2025
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
Fuel system expanded back seat
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11649349March 19, 2025
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
The low pressure fuel line connector to the high pressure fuel pump failed and sprayed fuel over the hot engine. This could have easily cause a vehicle fire and death. This is a KNOW ISSUE and is covered by a safety recall on 2013-2014 Hyundai Sonatas (Hyundai Technical Service Bulletin 20-01-030H). The same issue occurred on this 2015 Sonata that was built in June 2015. A temporary repair had to be made until Hyundai could inspect it. Vehicle was taken to Holler Hyundai in Winter Park, FL and inspected. Results were forwarded to Hyundai Motors America and the repair was declined because the 2015 models were not included in the recall. It is our belief that the same connector was also used on some 2015 Sonata models prior to the issue being discovered.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11649010March 18, 2025
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
The contact owns a 2015 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, there was an abnormally strong gasoline odor inside the vehicle. There was a warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who diagnosed a failure with the fuel pump. The contact was informed that the fuel pump was leaking and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 85,000.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11649017March 18, 2025
ENGINE, FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
I have had issues with oil consumption in this vehicle for about 4 years. I started getting a "Knock Sensor" code. I replaced the knock sensor and still had problems. Hyundai had a recall and they reprogrammed my computer board. A year later I was having the same issues. My car started stalling out. Took back to the dealership they said my engine had sludge and now they're saying that there is a hole in my engine. Hyundai is saying that I don't qualify for assistance.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11649138March 18, 2025
ENGINE, STRUCTURE:BODY
The engine burns oil, I have to get spark plugs every two months, and put oil in it almost every week. The check engine light is now flashing and is throwing more sensors. The paint on this car is also all peeling off.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11648627March 17, 2025
ENGINE
2018 Hyundai Sonata Registered owner [XXX] Vin [XXX] Which qualifies for a replacement engine under the "recall" and "class action" due to engine oil consumption damage. On [XXX] I was driving home from California, and my 2018 Hyundai Sonata made a loud noise and stalled on me while driving on the freeway. On Jan 2, 2025 I towed my 2018 Hyundai Sonata to ABC Hyundai for repairs. I was told the engine failed or locked up. I have a drivetran warranty up to 150k. My vehicle currently has 115k. However, Hyundai denied the engine repair stating that I neglected the maintenance on the vehicle. They were requesting oil change receipts from 2018 when I bought the car. I've submitted all oil change documents that I could find. Most auto shops have purged their system, updated their software and also got entirely new systems, therefore those receipts were not found. Carfax also has a record of oil changes. I did not always take my vehicle to the dealer for oil changes since our family has a certified mechanic that can vouch for all the other oil changes done on the vehicle. Including tune-ups. The dealer and I have provided several oil change receipts approx. 18+ carfax, Hyundai, family mechanic and misc. receipts. That's should be more than enough evidence for Hyundai to honor their warranty. Please help. NOW HMA says t claim for oil consumption and repairs were denied due to the vehicle being outside of warranty based on time and mileage. Once a claim is denied that is the final decision from HMA. This is untrue my vehicle is NOT out of warranty. Due to the oil consumption class action, and faulty engine put in ny car, the drivetran warranty was extended to 150K, and my vehicle is only has 115K and 7 years old. Hyundai put a bad engine in my vehicle to begin with. A few months ago I got a oil change at Firestone, 4 weeks later there wasn't a drop of oil in my car, that is a problem. Everytime I got a oil change, I had to extra oil after 3-4 week INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11648673March 17, 2025
BACK OVER PREVENTION: REARVIEW SYSTEM BRAKING, LANE DEPARTURE: BLIND SPOT DETECTION
BSD system stopped working one day along with the Rear Cross Traffic Alert.The button which operates system does not come and system does not work. Warning lamp lit on instrument panel and said" check B SD system" meaning the whole system doesn't work. Took to my local shop and they couldn't repair as they stated the system is a proprietary system the had no software. service bulletin #19-BE-009H was issued in 5-19 by Hyundai for this issue with car. So there is a know problem
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11648675March 17, 2025
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, ENGINE, FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
While driving at a high rate of speed propulsion to the vehicle suddenly and without warning ceased, the electric and internal combustion engine were non-responsive (ICE stopped; hybrid motor didn't provide propulsion), the warning light said "Check Hybrid System. Turn off engine" I was put at risk because I was traveling at highway speed and was given no warning before the vehicle shut down. This has occurred nine times, I've reported all to Hyundai, they have had the car in the shop three times, the issue is not fixed. No, despite ODB2 error codes, the car has not shut down while a dealership is driving it. Yes, the vehicle has been inspected multiple times by Hyundai. Yes, always "Check Hybrid System. Turn off engine", in almost all cases the check engine light comes on after that, and in some cases additional lights such as "auto hold". This first occurred in Dec 2023, I was told the car was fixed (it wasn't) and happened again in October 2024. I haven't been able to drive my car since then.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11648883March 17, 2025
ENGINE, POWER TRAIN
I was going 80 mph on the interstate and suddenly my car went into limp mode and shooked really hard and dropped to 60 mph. I had to swerve to go onto the side of the road. The car behind me almost rammed into me. I contacted hampton hyundai for days to schedule an appt. I finally was able to drop off my vehicle to them but now they are telling me they have to do an oil consumption test but my car is in limp mode and it shakes when I drive it. The car is dangerous and they are trying to charge me $500 for a fuel pump replacement ( which I have a warranty of but they notified me that does not count but it matches exactly the possible reason). As you can see in the documents, they did not note that my fuel pump was broken. They just asked if I wanted to pay it so they can get started. I get normal oil changes done. They haven't even done a rod bearing test but just looked at the knock sensor and was telling me that they wanted to charge me to get that changed.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0

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