Hyundai Sonata Complaints (2023)

85 consumer complaints on file.

#11708428January 2, 2026
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
Hello Sir/Madam, While driving on Interstate I-75 at approximately 70 mph, the yellow check engine warning light suddenly illuminated. Immediately afterward, the vehicle began to shake violently, lose engine power, and run extremely rough. The vehicle experienced a sudden loss of power, and pressing the accelerator pedal did not result in normal response or acceleration. The throttle input was significantly reduced, making it difficult to maintain speed and safely control the vehicle. At highway speed and in heavy highway traffic, if we had not been able to safely exit the roadway, this loss of control could have put not only the occupants of this vehicle but also other drivers at serious risk. Fortunately, we were already in the exit lane, and a McDonald’s parking lot was located immediately off the exit. This allowed us to leave the highway quickly. Otherwise, this situation could have been extremely dangerous in active, heavy highway traffic. As the vehicle continued to shake, a strong smell of gasoline and a burning odor entered the cabin, raising concerns about a possible fire hazard. We safely stopped the vehicle in the McDonald’s parking lot and then shut the engine off due to the severity of the symptoms. After shutting the vehicle off, we attempted to restart it, but the engine would not start. The vehicle had to be towed to a Hyundai service center for inspection. The Hyundai service center later confirmed that the failure was caused by a faulty fuel injector, and they have changed all 4 injectors as I attached receipt from Hyundai This failure created a serious safety risk due to sudden loss of engine power, reduced accelerator response, severe shaking at highway speed, and fuel and burning odors inside the cabin. Regards
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11704347December 10, 2025
ENGINE
My car was having an issue where it was losing all the coolant, causing my engine to overheat twice while driving down the highway. Unfortunately I couldn't find a leak anywhere and there was no fluid leaking in my garage. I lost an entire reservoir of coolant overnight. After taking my car to the dealership to get repaired, I was told that it was leaking my coolant into the exhaust system and burning it up. I was also told "it was a know issue, they had a bulletin from Hyundai on how to fix the problem, and Hyundai completely redesigned the part to stop the leak and it had to be special ordered." I was without my car for a week and left with a $1300 bill as apparently it was not covered by my warranty. I have no idea how a known issue is happening so frequently that requires a nationwide bulletin and a part redesign, yet somehow is recalled. Especially considering it left me stranded on the side on the side of the highway in Indiana during a snow storm but someone seriously needs to investigate it.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11700476November 20, 2025
ENGINE, FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
I am reporting a serious coolant system defect on my 2023 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid with about 13,500 miles. The vehicle develops an internal coolant leak while driving. Coolant burns off and white steam/smoke comes out of the exhaust, especially during acceleration. When this happens, the coolant level drops quickly, the interior heater stops working, and the car soon displays an engine overheating warning, forcing me to stop driving. This has happened multiple times and makes the vehicle unsafe. When I checked under the hood, coolant was at a low/empty level after overheating events. The car becomes undriveable once the alarm appears. I took the vehicle to a Hyundai dealer, and even though the vehicle is only 2 years old, they told me it was “out of warranty.” I had to pay about $1,500 for repairs, and since the dealer refused a loaner, I paid $250 for a rental car. I called Hyundai USA on 9/13/2025 and opened Case Number XXX. Hyundai acknowledged they are aware of coolant issues on the Sonata Hybrid but said no recall exists. This issue appears widespread. Many other owners report the same symptoms: white exhaust steam, coolant smell, coolant loss, no interior heat, and engine overheating. Hyundai released TSB 23-EM-009H, describing a failure where coolant leaks internally in the Exhaust Heat Recovery System (EHRS), causing white smoke and overheating—matching my symptoms exactly. This defect is a safety hazard because overheating can occur suddenly while driving, risking engine damage or breakdown in traffic. I request NHTSA investigate this issue as a potential recall-level defect on the 2023 Sonata Hybrid. 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
#11700089November 18, 2025
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, ENGINE
Car stalls and shuts down while shifting to park or reverse and when slowing to turn or stopping. Also the media screen will black out and not work at times.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11698142November 7, 2025
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
Fuel injectors cause car to lose power while driving in traffic, on the highway which can cause accidents. This event happened twice one while entering the highway and one while going past a light. Neither caused an accident at the time. The car both times were taken to the dealership and the fuel injectors had to be replaced both times. The first time was in December 2024 at 12k miles
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11697927November 6, 2025
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
The contact owns a 2023 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated that while driving at 35 MPH, the fuel mileage abnormally increased from 320 to approximately 431. An unknown message was displayed, and the contact received a notification on the Mobile App about a diagnostic trouble code for the EVAP sensor. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed, and determined that the EVAP system valve was stuck open. The dealer replaced the EVAP system, and the dealer then determined that the fuel tank was swollen due to the failure. The contact stated that the rear seat sensor was malfunctioning and was causing a warning light to illuminate erroneously, which the dealer related to the fuel tank swelling and lifting the metal underneath the seat. The dealer also replaced the fuel tank. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and covered the repairs. The failure mileage was approximately 73,245.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11695686October 26, 2025
ENGINE, FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
The fuel injectors failed on my Hyundai Sonata in two instances. Once on 5/23/24 and once on 9/7/25. During the first instance, I was driving on a local road when the accelerator stopped working and the engine started sputtering. We were fortunately able to stop at a nearby parking lot before the engine completely stopped working. During the second instance, I was also driving through a local road when the accelerator stopped and the engine started sputtering again. This time, we weren't able to reach a safe stopping point and the engine died on the road. My family was with me at the time, so we had to push the car in neutral to the closest safe space. In both cases, our safety and the safety was others was put at risk as the car become unable to accelerate, and the car stops moving. We had to get out on the road and push the car with oncoming traffic. The problem was confirmed by the dealer in both cases, and they replaced the fuel injectors in both cases. So far, they've replaced 3 out of the 4 fuel injectors so I still drive in fear of another fuel injector causing a breakdown while I'm driving. There were no warnings or symptoms prior to the failure so there was no way to know to stop driving and to stop in a safe spot. We were fortunate to be able to move the car to a safe place for both instances, but if this had happened on the highway or secluded location, our lives could've been at risk. I've requested Hyundai to replace the last fuel injector but they're refusing to do so. I only feel safe driving in local roads or short highway trips as I fear for the reliability of my car, my safety, and the safety of others.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11694028October 17, 2025
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
While driving at highway speed, my vehicle suddenly lost power due to fuel injector failure and could not be restarted, creating a serious safety risk for myself and others in high-speed traffic. This is the second vehicle of the same year and model that I’ve owned to experience the exact same injector failure. In the first case, one injector was replaced under a Hyundai service bulletin before I sold the vehicle. This second occurrence confirms that the issue is not isolated and should be escalated to a formal safety recall. The most recent failure was diagnosed and repaired by Hyundai, confirming the problem (this time replacing all injectors). The vehicle has not been inspected by police, insurance, or other outside representatives. There were no warning lamps, messages, or symptoms prior to the failure—it occurred without any warning, significantly increasing the risk of a crash
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11690061September 27, 2025
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM, UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Filled gas tank up on Friday [XXX] about 10am as leaving Boca Raton, FL to head North to New Port Richey, FL. About 30 minutes later the gas mileage said there was only 90 miles left in the tank. Stopped at the next gas station to make sure nothing was leaking, added a little more until it clicked, basically full again. Got to approximately [XXX] near Morris Bridge in Tampa area, the car started to decelerate and then all the engine lights came on and car was shutting off, was able to pull to the left side of the road and Looked into the back seat noticed the back seat was rising. Looked under the back of the car and the frame looked like it was pushing up into the backend of the car. DOT was called out to the scene as it appeared the car could have exploded. This could have killed my [XXX] daughter (which was who was driving the car) or other people on the road. 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
#11684700September 3, 2025
ENGINE, FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
I was driving my 2023 Hyundai Sonata with 22,000 miles on I-96 near Grand Rapids Michigan at or slightly below the speed limit of 70 MPH. Suddenly, with no advance warning of any kind, the engine shut down. I was able to coast and maneuver to the right shoulder of the road while avoiding traffic, including a large tractor trailer that almost hit us. The vehicle than had just enough power to get off the next exit and on a local side street. At that point the vehicle would not restart and you could smell a strong odor of fuel. I called Hyundai and they sent a tow truck to take it to the nearest dealer. (I am 700 miles from home). The dealer's service department diagnosed the problem then replaced the fuel injectors still under warranty.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11672238July 9, 2025
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
Failed fuel injector caused 3rd cylinder misfire car only has 30,000 miles I'm the second owner I've only had it 2 weeks and this issue happened.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11672179July 9, 2025
ENGINE
Coming home from work I stopped at a red light and when I tried to accelerate the vehicle was surging and jerking shaking and wouldn't pick up speed 2 min later the check engine light appeared flashing thankfully I was 5 min from home got the car towed the next morning to hyundai dealership said it was an cylinder misfire the car only has 30,000 miles on it
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11669054June 24, 2025
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
The fuel injectors failed again, leaving me stranded on a busy road. The first time this happened, I had a little over 8,000 miles on my vehicle - 5 months after purchase. That was two years ago. Now, the injectors have failed for the second time and I am having to pay just north of $1,000 to get them replaced at my Hyundai dealership. It was a terrifying thing to experience and my safety was at risk due to my vehicle decelerating on a busy street. I had to call the police to help shield my vehicle from other drivers. The problem has been confirmed by a dealer upon inspection and diagnosis, and the police officer that was at the scene also could see that my vehicle would not start. This dealer works at the company that manufactures Hyundais. Prior to the fuel injection failure, there were brief moments where the 'check engine' light would illuminate but it would never stay on long. Directly before my vehicle shut off on the road due to the failure, there were no light/lamps/or other symptoms noticeable.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11668504June 22, 2025
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM, ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Took my car in February 10 for a recall that pop up on the app and today is June 22 and I’m getting all the run around and different dates for my car to be ready but everything it’s time to pick up my vehicle something comes up and they told me they took my car back to the body shop for the recall issue. All the information are added on the file
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11666202June 10, 2025
ENGINE, UNKNOWN OR OTHER
On June 4 as son was turning, the car started shaking & went to park. He managed to slip into a nearby parking spot & tried to reverse. The car turned on, put into reverse & then after about 2 seconds it went to park & stopped. This happened several times. It was towed to the dealer who today, June 10, reported it was a transmission flaw. The car was being driven at about 30 mph on a 2 way street. Had it been on the interstate at a higher speed, it may have caused a dangerous situation with a sudden stop.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11663670May 29, 2025
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
My car stalled while driving through an intersection and nearly caused a T-Bone collision. The car would not start afterwards and towed to dealership. The car currently has 32000k miles on it. The inspection report stated leaking fuel injectors causing misfires. This was covered by warranty. The parts are currently backordered with no eta on possible repair indicating it might be a widespread issue. There were no warnings or lights prior to incident. The car had just been serviced at 30k miles by the dealership with no indication of possible failure given to me by maintenance department. The dealership is out of loan vehicles and I’ve been without a vehicle for 6 days now causing work and personal issues.
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
#11641315February 7, 2025
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
The contact owns a 2023 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated while driving at various speeds, there was a loud sound coming from the rear end underneath the floorboard like a part slamming on the undercarriage of the vehicle. The contact stated that the fuel gauge suddenly indicated that the fuel tank was EMPTY. The vehicle was taken to the dealer who diagnosed that the gas valve and electronic control unit (ECU) had failed. The contact stated that the gas valve was replaced, and the electronic control unit (ECU) was updated. After receiving the repair, the contact noticed that while attempting to accelerate, the vehicle downshifted before shifting to the desired gear and accelerating. The failure was most persistent while driving uphill. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to another dealer, All Star Hyundai (3950 Century Ct, Pittsburg, CA 94565) who was unable to diagnose the vehicle due to not having the tool necessary to detach the fuel tank. The vehicle was then taken to another dealer, San Leandro Hyundai a Carnamic Car Center (1066 Marina Blvd, San Leandro, CA 94577) who diagnosed that the pressure valve was swollen and the entire fuel tank and pressure valve needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. Due to the inconsistency of diagnostic results, the contact decided to take the vehicle to another dealer, Fremont Hyundai (43690 Auto Mall Cir, Fremont, CA 94538) who diagnosed that the pressure valve was swollen but had not diagnosed that the fuel tank needed to be replaced due to not finding a failure with the fuel tank. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately failure mileage was 75,000.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11641209February 6, 2025
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
Good afternoon. My issue is related to an existing recall that Hyundai Motor sent to me back during the beginning of January 2025 for a gas valve, tank inspection (replaced if necessary.) and ECU computer update. I've been to a total of 4 Hyundai Dealers and none of them have been consistent with this recall. The first Dealer is "Future Hyundai" in Concord, California. Initially, I'd took my car there for both recall and sound coming from the gas tank and my fuel level dropping. I was told by a service advisor by the name of Hayley, that it would cost a diagnostic fee to locate the issue. I didn't have the fees. But, seeing that the gas tank was part of the equation. It was free. The gas tank inspection was never done. I was told by Hayley that the fuel valve was replaced. But they mechanics only done a quick visual. I wasn't reassured that my issue was resolved. So I'd took it to a another Hyundai Dealer. This dealer told me that part of the procedure is to take off the tank and inspect it. I didn't get that far because I was told that a tool that was used is used to take off the tank was broken. A bleeder tool. Which doesn't make sense, because the tool is used for Bleeding out air from the fuel system. "Allstar Hyundai." The last two of the 4 dealers, "San Leandro Hyundai" and "Freemont Hyundai", told me that my fuel pressure hose in my gas tank and had swelled up. San Leandro dealer told me that my gas tank expanded. But the "Freemont Dealer" only mentioned the fuel hose. But never mentioned the gas tank. But decided to add it anyways. None of these dealers have been consistent regarding the recall. "Freemont Hyundai", the last of the 4, the service man told me that my tank is available. But his story changed from the time that I can get the job done 4 times. To having to have my car for two days before they can order the part. He'd order the parts, verified to me, when I was at my appointment. But now that conversation changed.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11638560January 25, 2025
ENGINE, POWER TRAIN
2023 Sonata N-Line, complete loss of power while driving on seven (7) occasions over the past year. In all cases above 60mph creating a dangerous condition to myself and fellow drivers while attempting to pull to the side of the road while rapidly losing speed. In all seven (7) cases, the DTC code is P065312. I have asked the dealership to note the recurring issue in my service records and I have reached out to Hyundai, mostly so that if I am involved in a serious accident because of this issue, there is a paper trail for legal purposes. The dealership folks are nice but basically unless the car rolls into the dealership with smoke pouring out of the engine, they want to charge a diagnostics fee and keep the car for multiple days which isn't helpful because like most, I need the car and the issue is extremely sporadic. It is disappointing and I hope Hyundai takes note and provides remedy for the issue sooner rather than later as this is my sixth (6th) Hyundai vehicle and really do like the car otherwise. All incidents below: 01/23/2025 - 9531 miles 01/20/205 - 9128 miles 12/15/2024 - 5500 miles 12/13/2024 - 5374 miles 11/22/2024 - 2409 miles 01/12/2024 - 568 miles 01/08/2024 - 554 miles
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0

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