Hyundai Sonata Complaints (2013)

2,025 consumer complaints on file.

#11718555February 17, 2026
ENGINE
It is a known issue on several makes and years on Hyundais. excessive oil consumption. burning a quart every 375 miles. at one point we had no oil in the car at all. causing a potential major safety issue lubricating parts of the engine. etc. we have contacted Hyundai several times and brought to Hyundai dealer who has confirmed issue through a test. no warning that oil was low!
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11714779February 1, 2026
SERVICE BRAKES, STEERING, UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Experienced sudden unintended acceleration causing my car to speed up, lose control, and crash into the vehicle in front of me.
Crash:
Yes
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11711389January 16, 2026
ENGINE
My 2013 Hyundai Sonata (VIN: [XXX] , 2.4L Theta II GDI engine) is experiencing symptoms consistent with the known Theta II engine defects covered under prior NHTSA recalls (e.g., 17V-226) and the related class action settlement for connecting rod bearing wear due to manufacturing debris restricting oil flow. The vehicle has begun exhibiting [describe your specific symptoms here, e.g.: "a loud metallic knocking/tapping noise from the engine that increases with RPM, especially during acceleration or at highway speeds; reduced engine power and hesitation; illumination of the check engine light and/or oil pressure warning light; excessive vibration; or sudden loss of power/stalling risk"]. These issues have [escalated/worsened over time or occurred suddenly while driving]. This poses a serious safety hazard because premature bearing wear can lead to complete engine seizure or stall without warning while the vehicle is in motion, potentially at highway speeds, resulting in loss of motive power, inability to maintain speed, or increased risk of collision, injury, or fatality. I have properly maintained the vehicle with regular oil changes using the recommended full synthetic oil [add if true: "and can provide service records showing no evidence of sludge or neglect"]. Despite submitting an appeal/claim under the Hyundai Theta Engine Class Action Settlement (Case Number XXX), I received confirmation on December 30, 2025, promising a decision within 14 business days, but as of January 16, 2026, there has been no response or update despite follow-up attempts. This ongoing delay prevents me from obtaining the necessary inspection, repair, or replacement under the extended warranty/safety coverage, leaving the vehicle in a potentially unsafe condition. I am requesting that NHTSA review this as part of the pattern of Theta II engine failures in 2011-2014 Hyundai Sonatas, which have led to thousands of similar complaints, recalls, and investigations into untimely INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION AC
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11711574January 16, 2026
ENGINE
Engine losing power and metal shavings in oil and engining shutting off
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11710970January 14, 2026
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, ENGINE
While driving, vehicle slowed down abruptly and stopped. It was flashing “vehicle not safe to drive”. This happened before hen I got a new engine 2 years ago. Even with a new engine now it is happening again. I took it to Nissan Moreno Valley and paid $240 for diagnostic only to find out there a software update they had to do with a tablet. No work needed to be one just a software update hooked up to their system. Hyundai cooperate would not assist to over this fee. I like have crashed with this happening. The car just stops with no warning and it’s extremely dangerous how it cuts off while driving. Luckily I was on the streets not freeway.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11710482January 12, 2026
AIR BAGS
Our 2012 Hyundai Sonata (VIN [XXX] ) has experienced several cracks in the dashboard area of the vehicle. We know this is a reported common problem with this vehicle and some information says its related to both heat and sun exposure. However, my wife has always used sunshades everywhere she travels and the car has been parked in the garage when its not in operation. We are also concerned that this could be a safety issue if the air bag ever deployed in an accident. The dealership where we purchased and Hyundai Corporate have denied our claims. 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
#11709768January 8, 2026
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Wiring for headlights, and break lights has been malfunctioning. It is not a fuse and i have tried changing them to the point i keep extra in my trunk and still won't work. yes, available for inspection, I have been pulled over multiple times and was written a citation yesterday.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11708880January 5, 2026
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING, FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
See attached document for complaint.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11708528January 3, 2026
ENGINE
Engine Seized while driving - took to Hyundai dealership in Newport News VA and was advised it was negligence on our part. car was just inspected 2 months prior with no issues. All repairs were completed 05/23/2023 as required by Hyundai. Car does not start and they refuse to fix it. Car engine was recalled and never replaced. Information states it was but dealership refuses to provide records showing it was replaced since it was not. [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
#11707934December 30, 2025
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
I started smelling a little gas in the 20th. And on the 21st it got a lot worse so I took it to the dealership. This is the same place that replaced the engine because it failed and it was a recall. I let them know of the recall and they said it is not covered. They told me it was the high-pressure fuel line that connects to the pump. I have provided a picture of what the tech said.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11707662December 29, 2025
STRUCTURE:BODY
About a year ago, I went out one morning, and the Rear Passenger Door would not engage or open. I tried using the key fob, as well as manual lock, trying to lock and unlock, and it still would not open. No one can get into the car from the outside. No one can get out of the car from the inside. This especially is very dangerous. Nothing has changed. I would like Hyundai to repair my door, since it is inoperable. In case of accident, fire, or other reason, someone would be locked in to their detriment.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11706048December 19, 2025
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
My vehicle had Hyundai Safety Recall 227 (fuel tube replacement) completed on December 7, 2022. After the recall repair, the same fuel-system symptoms returned. A Hyundai dealership diagnosed failure of the high-pressure fuel pump and high-pressure fuel pipe and stated the condition was critical and a safety risk due to fuel system involvement and potential fire hazard. Hyundai Motor America declined assistance, citing vehicle age and mileage, despite this being a recurring fuel-system safety issue following a recall repair. The vehicle continues to present fuel-related safety concerns, and operating the vehicle poses a potential fire risk. In addition, the estimated repair cost exceeds $2,000, which represents a significant financial hardship for a safety-related defect that occurred after a recall repair. I am submitting this complaint due to concern for vehicle safety and the recurrence of a fuel-system defect after a manufacturer safety recall.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11705142December 15, 2025
AIR BAGS, UNKNOWN OR OTHER
My car has a severely cracked dashboard which could cause reduced structural integrity and an increased risk of debris and shrapnel being deployed in the event of an accident. The dashboard is a structural component designed to help absorb and distribute some of the forces in a collision. Cracks can compromise this ability to perform this function potentially increasing the force experienced by the occupants and the other parts of the vehicle. It can also cause increased risk of debris and shrapnel. During a collision the cracked dashboard may break apart more easily causing sharp or jagged pieces to become projectiles inside of the cabin these fragments can pose a serious injury risk to occupants. It can also result in impaired airbag deployment. Many vehicles have airbags in the dashboard a severely cracked dashboard could obstruct or improperly deploy airbags for example the airbag may not fully deploy reducing its effectiveness and the dashboard may puncture or otherwise interfere with the airbag as it inflates creating additional safety hazards. Cracks may expose sharp edges or materials under the dashboard which could harm occupants during a collision, especially in areas where passengers may come into contact with the dashboard. A cracked dashboard could also cause a compromised electrical system dashboards house numerous electrical systems, sensors, and controls cracks could indicate underlying damage to these components. In a collision, these systems may fail or behave unpredictably which could further reduce safety features. Cracked dashboards present a significant risk during a collision and should be addressed by the manufacturer promptly to ensure its customer safety.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11704254December 10, 2025
ENGINE
My 2013 Hyundai Sonata qualifies for a Lifetime Warranty engine replacement under the Theta II Class Action Settlement. The dealership is refusing coverage unless I provide maintenance records, even though the settlement prohibits denial based solely on missing records or the presence of sludge. Hyundai must prove neglect caused the failure, which has not been demonstrated. I am requesting review by the Engine Settlement Team and approval of my engine replacement.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11703431December 6, 2025
ENGINE, UNKNOWN OR OTHER
New Battery keeps dying, car not starting and when it does start it shuts off when I brake. Oil light on after I already put oil in the car
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11703251December 5, 2025
ENGINE
Vehicle: 2013 Hyundai Sonata VIN: [XXX] Mileage: [163,000] Summary: Theta II 2.4L GDI engine bearing failure (Recall 953 / 20V-393) – severe knocking, risk of sudden engine seizure/fire. Dealer refuses lifetime-warranty repair and forced consumer to pay towing to avoid lien/fees. Description: This vehicle is covered by NHTSA Recall 20V-393 (Campaign 953) and the court-approved Theta II engine class-action settlement providing a lifetime warranty for rod-bearing failure. The engine now has loud knocking from failed rod bearings – the exact defect addressed by the recall and settlement.On 11/28/2025 I dropped the vehicle at Group 1 Hyundai Southwest Houston (10301 Southwest Fwy, Houston, TX 77074) for diagnosis and repair under the lifetime warranty. The dealership confirmed bearing failure but refused to repair, stating the vehicle is “not eligible” because the free Campaign 953 knock-sensor software update was never performed. No owner (current or prior) ever received any recall notice or settlement notice despite Hyundai’s legal duty to notify all registered owners.On 12/04/2025, service advisor Tevin told me to remove the car by Friday or face storage fees and possible lien sale. To avoid unlawful charges for a known safety defect, I paid $192.70 out of pocket for AAA to tow the vehicle off the lot on 12/05/2025 (receipt available).Hyundai is using its own failure to provide notice as justification to deny legitimate lifetime-warranty claims and shift costs to consumers. The unrepaired vehicle remains a serious safety hazard (engine stall/fire risk) on the road.Requested Action: Investigate Hyundai Motor America and its dealers for (1) systemic failure to notify owners of Recall 953 and the Theta II settlement, (2) wrongful denial of lifetime-warranty engine repairs, and (3) imposing towing/storage fees on consumers for admitted safety defects. I have filed a claim with the settlement administrator and can provide receipts, recorded calls, and docs. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION A
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11703332December 5, 2025
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle stalled, with an abnormal knocking sound coming from the engine compartment. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The contact was able to restart the vehicle; however, the failure persisted. The contact previously received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 17V226000 (Engine and Engine Cooling). The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed, and determined that the engine short block had failed and needed to be replaced. The contact was informed by the dealer that the vehicle would not be serviced under the recall. The contact was offered a buyback option for the vehicle and was also offered a loaner vehicle. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was not available.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11702301December 1, 2025
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Rear View camera stopped working about 6 weeks ago. Mechanic says need new camera which would cost about $500 labor and parts. Contacted dealer and Hyundai corporate to report and complain. Many other Hyundai vehicles have same problem with rear view camera but they are included in a recall campaign. Mine is not. Mechanic said the repair requires new camera and wireing harness. Hyundai case number is 41861577.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11700618November 20, 2025
ENGINE
Component/System Failed - Engine – connecting rod bearing wear resulting in complete engine seizure. - Engine is available for inspection upon request. Safety Risk - Engine seizure occurred while my mechanic was driving, causing a complete loss of motive power.Created immediate risk of crash due to inability to accelerate or control vehicle. Hazard to driver, passengers, and others on the road. Reproduction/Confirmation Failure matches known defect described in Recall 17V226000: premature bearing wear leading to engine seizure. Maintenance records confirm proper service; dealership denied repair citing “owner negligence,” which is inconsistent with the recall symptoms. Inspection Engine has not been repaired or replaced by manufacturer. Vehicle was inspected by dealership service tech who determined failure was caused by negligence (text denial received). Spoke with customer service and they confirmed denial. Full maintenance records available for inspection. Hyundai requested service records - we were not able to find all service records, as some have closed, and some have files for 400 days only (jiffy lube). Warning Lamps / Symptoms No warning lamps illuminated prior to failure. Engine knocking and oil pressure loss were observed immediately before seizure. Failure was sudden and catastrophic. Additional Information / Assessment Vehicle: 2013 Hyundai Sonata, VIN [XXX] . Recall 17V226000 identifies bearing wear that may result in engine seizure. Failure is consistent with the recall defect, regardless of warranty expiration. Manufacturer has refused to perform required recall inspection or repair, citing improper negligence. 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
#11698918November 12, 2025
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:ENGINE CONTROL MODULE (ECU/ECM), SERVICE BRAKES
The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated that while driving 45-50 MPH and depressing the accelerator pedal, the vehicle failed to respond and hesitated. The brake and the hybrid system warning lights were illuminated. The contact was able to pull to the right side of the road and waited for her husband to arrive. The contact turned off the vehicle and restarted the vehicle, and the vehicle operated as intended. A dealer was contacted. The vehicle was taken to a dealer, where it was diagnosed, and determined that the hybrid ECU needed to be replaced. The contact stated that the dealer checked the error on the brake failure light that was illuminated, but had not yet gotten a response back from the manufacturer. The vehicle was taken to Auto Zone where it was diagnosed, and determined that the hybrid ECU needed to be replaced. The contact stated that the failure had occurred on several occasions for the past three years. The engine was replaced, and the vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure and informed the contact that they have not heard from the dealer. The approximate failure mileage was 128,000.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0

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