Car Defect Radar
Get the report
Built from NHTSA complaints and recalls collected for this model, generated October 26, 2026. Totals reflect what has been collected, not every complaint ever filed.
Confirm 9 recalls before you buy.

Ask the seller for proof the repair was completed, or run the free VIN check. Recall repairs are done at no cost by a dealer.

Before you buy

  1. Engine bearing knock and seizure: about 1 in 7 complaints. Ask whether the engine was replaced or inspected under the connecting rod bearing recall, and listen for knocking or tapping on a cold start.
  2. Engine stalling while driving: about 1 in 10 complaints.
  3. Steering wander and sticking: about 1 in 12 complaints.
  4. Safety: Engine compartment fires (fire or smoke: 13 of 13 reports), about 4% of complaints.
  5. Run the free VIN recall check for the 9 recalls to confirm on this model, starting with the fuel system recall (22V312000).

Based on a random sample of 300 of the 1,908 complaints filed with NHTSA for this model, read and summarized with AI. 282 of them describe a failure the owner experienced; the rest (recall notices, parts delays, worries) are left out of these counts. Complaints are unverified owner reports.

Known problems

61 found · 300 complaints read

What owners report most often, grouped into named problems. Summaries are written by AI from the complaints; open a problem to read the owners' own words.

Engine bearing knock and seizure

Can affect control: 31 of 41 reports

Owners report the engine knocking, tapping or clanking, then losing power, seizing or failing outright, often needing a replacement engine; some mention rod bearing failure, sludge and recall disputes.

How common
41 of the 300 complaints we read (14%), roughly 261 of all 1,908 on file
Safety
Can affect control: 31 of 41 reports; 1 report mentions a crash; 1 report mentions a fire
Related recalls
Owners mention 17V226000, 18V934000, 17V617000. Check the VIN for it.

Before you buy: Ask whether the engine was replaced or inspected under the connecting rod bearing recall, and listen for knocking or tapping on a cold start.

  • Engine suddenly started knocking hard and died on the interstate at 70 mph despite up-to-date maintenance and completed recalls. · filed Mar 2026
    Read the owner's complaint

    No warning whatsoever. Car drove like a dream. All maintenance up to date. Oil changes done exactly on time. All recalls completed. Then all of a sudden while on the interstate, car started knocking extremely hard, lights on dash came on and car died. Almost caused several wrecks as I was going 70mph. This happened March 2026. Vehicle is a 2013 with 105,000 miles on it. 1-owner vehicle with clean title.

    NHTSA complaint ODI #11726324

  • Engine seized while driving even though required recall repairs were completed; owner says the dealer refuses to fix it and blames negligence. · filed Jan 2026
    Read the owner's complaint

    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)

    NHTSA complaint ODI #11708528

  • Engine suddenly stopped while driving on the highway due to a known rod bearing defect, but owner says Hyundai denied the warranty repair, citing engine neglect. · filed Sep 2025
    Read the owner's complaint

    I am filing a complaint regarding my 2013 Hyundai Sonata in connection with a known recall related to connecting rod bearing wear (I believe this is Recall 198). My vehicle is experiencing issues consistent with this defect, but Hyundai has denied my warranty/recall claim. Hyundai’s denial was based on an allegation of “engine neglect,” which is not accurate. I have maintained my vehicle with regular oil changes since purchase, and I have records to support this. I work from home and therefore do not drive as frequently as the average commuter, but I have always performed at least the standard minimum maintenance required. The car has never shown signs of engine neglect or had prior engine issues until now. The failure occurred while I was driving on the highway, when the engine suddenly stopped running. This placed me in a very dangerous situation, as the car stalled in active traffic and posed a risk to myself and other drivers. This highlights the serious safety hazard associated with the known rod bearing defect. Since the failure, I have been left without reliable transportation, and it has been extremely difficult to get to and from work. The problem was reported to my Hyundai dealership, but they are refusing to cover the repair and appear to be attempting to avoid responsibility for this recall. Even if the specific recall campaign is now listed as closed, this is a well-documented defect, and Hyundai should remain obligated to fix it when it occurs. I am requesting NHTSA’s assistance in ensuring Hyundai is held accountable for honoring their obligations under the recall. Consumers should not be penalized thousands of dollars for a safety defect that is the manufacturer’s responsibility.

    NHTSA complaint ODI #11684617

Engine stalling while driving

Can affect control: 28 of 29 reports

Owners report the engine stalling, cutting out, sputtering or losing power while driving, sometimes at highway speed and sometimes without restarting.

How common
29 of the 300 complaints we read (10%), roughly 184 of all 1,908 on file
Safety
Can affect control: 28 of 29 reports
Related recalls
Owners mention 17V226000, 20V121000, 17V152000, 22V312000. Check the VIN for it.
  • Engine loses power and shuts off when slowing down, needing a recall-related engine replacement, and owner says the dealer is demanding $2,500 for a repair that should be covered by recall. · filed Aug 2026
    Read the owner's complaint

    MY ENGINE WAS DECREASING IN SPEED AND SHUTTING OFF IF I BRAKE TO SLOW DOWN ON MAJOR EXRESSWAYS AND LOCAL ROADS. I WAS ADVISE BY MY DEALERSHIP MECHANIC SHOP THAT MY ENGINE HAD A RECALL AND NEED TO HAVE IT TOWED TO A HYUNDAI SERVICE DEALER FOR A REPLACEMENT ENGINE . MY ENGINE LIGHT ON THE DASHBOARD HAD A CONSTANT BLINKING LIGHT. MY VEHICLE WAS INSPECTED CAMELBACK HYUNDAI AND A NEW ENGINE WAS REPLACED. THE DEALERSHIP IS HOLDING MY VEHICLE HOSTAGE DEMANDING I PAY 2500.00 FOR REPLACEMENT ENGINE THAT WAS A RECALL. THEY ARE THREATENING TO PLACE AN ABANDONMENT CHARGE AGAINST ME

    NHTSA complaint ODI #11756752

  • Car stalls at startup and while driving, with a strong gasoline smell and an oil leak near the turbo, and is now not drivable. · filed May 2025
    Read the owner's complaint

    So my car started to stall when I started it an when I started goin down the road like it wanted to die. Then I started to smell gas very strong so had a code tester put to my car an i have 6 permanent codes. An not only that im smelling oil strong an noticing big oil spots under my car. So I look under the hood an behind the turbo I see oil behind an underneath the turbo. I definitely didnt feel safe driving but now its not even drivable. I purchased it couple months ago from an individual an i cant belive the amount of problems this car has. Im a single mom an trying to support my family an its hard to now with a non running car. I've put quite a few parts hoping it would fix some of the problems an nothing has. I absolutely love the car an very beautiful but unfortunately to many problems with it. Eninge, gas leaks, timing

    NHTSA complaint ODI #11663453

  • Engine stalled while driving at 60 mph, and the failure recurred despite a prior warranty repair for engine failure. · filed Apr 2024
    Read the owner's complaint

    The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated while driving 60 MPH, the vehicle stalled. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was able to be restarted after the third attempt; however, the failure recurred while driving. The contact stated that the dealer had previously repaired the vehicle for an engine failure under warranty; however, the failure persisted. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 108,000.

    NHTSA complaint ODI #11584126

Steering wander and sticking

Reduced safety margin: 26 of 26 reports

Owners report steering that feels light and wanders at highway speed, drifts, sticks near center, or will not return to center, requiring constant correction.

How common
26 of the 300 complaints we read (9%), roughly 165 of all 1,908 on file
Safety
Reduced safety margin: 26 of 26 reports
  • Steering made an abnormal sound and became difficult to turn in either direction, with the check engine and airbag lights on. · filed Mar 2020
    Read the owner's complaint

    TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 HYUNDAI SONATA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT AN UNDISCLOSED SPEED, AN ABNORMAL SOUND WAS HEARD COMING FROM THE STEERING. ADDITIONALLY, THE STEERING WAS DIFFICULT TO TURN IN EITHER. THE CHECK ENGINE WARNING LIGHT AND AIR BAGS WARNING LIGHT WERE ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC HOWEVER, THE CONTACT WAS NOT PROVIDED A CAUSE FOR THE FAILURE. THE RECEIVED AN UNKNOWN REPAIR. NEITHER A DEALER NOR THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 170,000.

    NHTSA complaint ODI #11319107

  • Steering wheel sticks and temporarily locks at highway speed and won't recenter, forcing the driver to force it back; a paid power steering motor replacement did not fix it. · filed Dec 2019
    Read the owner's complaint

    THE STEERING WHEEL STICKS AND/OR TEMPORARILY LOCKS WHILE DRIVING. THE WHEEL WHILE DRIVING BETWEEN 40 MPH AND FASTER DOESN'T RECENTER AND FEELS LIKE IT LOCKS OR STICKS BECAUSE THE DRIVER HAS TO FORCIBLY RECENTER THE WHEEL. THE CAR HAS 97,699 MILES. 2 MONTHS AGO JIM CLICK HYUNDAI REPLACED POWER STEERING MOTOR ASSEMBLY $910.00 OUT OF POCKET COSTS. THE REPAIR DID NOT FIX THIS PROBLEM. RETURNED TO SAME DEALERSHIP ON 12/9/19 SERVICE ADVISOR DID AN ALIGNMENT. THE PROBLEM STILL REMAINS.

    NHTSA complaint ODI #11289263

  • Steering wheel gets caught and feels tight, then releases while driving. · filed Feb 2019
    Read the owner's complaint

    STEERING WHEEL GET CAUGHT AND FEELS TIGHT THEN RELEASE WHILE DRIVING

    NHTSA complaint ODI #11175867

Melting tail and brake light sockets

Reduced safety margin: 18 of 25 reports

Owners report tail and brake light bulbs burning out repeatedly and overheating, melting the housings, sockets and wiring harness, with some smelling smoke or seeing a fire.

How common
25 of the 300 complaints we read (8%), roughly 159 of all 1,908 on file
Safety
Reduced safety margin: 18 of 25 reports; 3 reports mention a fire
  • Rear taillight bulb overheated, melted the wiring, and caught fire, which owner put out herself; headlight bulbs also burn out quickly. · filed Mar 2023
    Read the owner's complaint

    I bought my car used from a private party in March of 2022 with around 132,000miles. In a year's time I have replaced the rear passenger side tail light bulbs 3 to 4 times, the whole light assembly, and the wiring harness twice due to the bulb getting to hot and the plastic caught on fire the first time and melting the second. Noticed the smoke when I pulled into a gas station that day and opened the trunk quickly and beat the small flame with a small blanket I had in the trunk. My kids sit in the back seat. So I'm constantly worrying while driving when they are in the back. The headlight bulbs go out quicker in this vehicle as well. I've had to replace the headlight bulbs 3 times already. This is also too close to the fuel pump for this sort of thing to happen in my opinion. This needs to be resolved A. S. A. P.

    NHTSA complaint ODI #11511380

  • Taillight bulb assemblies melted onto the bulbs, and owner says the dealer and manufacturer would not help pay for the repair. · filed Sep 2022
    Read the owner's complaint

    The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated noticed both bulbs of the taillights were inoperable. The contact stated that he was changing the bulbs and noticed that the bulb assemblies were melted on to the bulbs, not allowing for the bulbs to be removed. The vehicle was taken to the dealer who offered no assistance. The contact was informed that the repair had to be paid out of pocket. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was contacted but offered no assistance. The failure mileage was 15,000.

    NHTSA complaint ODI #11485343

  • Brake and tail lights keep burning out and melting into the wiring harness; dealer replaced the harness but the problem continues. · filed May 2022
    Read the owner's complaint

    brake/tail lights keep burning out. when attempting to replace them, they are melted into the wiring harness. dealership replaced wiring harness. issue still happens.

    NHTSA complaint ODI #11464583

Steering coupler clicking and looseness

Reduced safety margin: 5 of 20 reports

Owners report the steering wheel clicking, clunking or thumping when turned and feeling loose, with dealers pointing to a worn steering column coupler.

How common
20 of the 300 complaints we read (7%), roughly 127 of all 1,908 on file
Safety
Reduced safety margin: 5 of 20 reports
  • Steering wheel makes a clunking noise as if something is loose. · filed Feb 2025
    Read the owner's complaint

    Steering wheel is making a clunk noise like somethings loose

    NHTSA complaint ODI #11640213

  • Steering coupler failed, causing clicking and vibration from the steering column and damaging both front tie rods. · filed Oct 2021
    Read the owner's complaint

    The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated while driving the vehicle there was a clicking noise and vibration coming from the steering column. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic who diagnosed that the steering coupler was faulty and had also caused damage to the front passenger’s and driver’s side tie rods. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The local dealer was notified of the failure. The manufacturer was not yet contacted. The VIN was not available. The failure mileage was 123,000.

    NHTSA complaint ODI #11438505

  • While driving 10 mph and making a turn, an abnormal clicking sound came from the steering wheel. · filed Oct 2020
    Read the owner's complaint

    TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 HYUNDAI SONATA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 10 MPH AND MAKING A TURN, THERE WAS AN ABNORMAL CLICKING SOUND COMING FROM THE STEERING WHEEL. THERE WAS NO WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN FOR DIAGNOSTIC TESTING. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 146,000.

    NHTSA complaint ODI #11365732

Engine compartment fires

Fire or smoke: 13 of 13 reports

Owners report fires starting under the hood, sometimes after the car stalled or lost power, with some cars destroyed.

How common
13 of the 300 complaints we read (4%), roughly 83 of all 1,908 on file
Safety
Fire or smoke: 13 of 13 reports; 13 reports mention a fire; 1 report mentions an injury
  • Car would not start, was jump-started, and the next day caught fire under the hood after failing to crank, forcing the owner and her son to flee. · filed Apr 2026
    Read the owner's complaint

    The contact owned a 2013 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated that while attempting to start the vehicle, the vehicle failed to start. No warning lights were illuminated. A nearby Samaritan attempted to jump-start the vehicle, however the vehicle failed to start. The contact stated that 15 minutes later, the contact attempted to start the vehicle, and the vehicle started. The O'Rileys, where it was diagnosed with a failed battery. The contact was informed that the battery needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The contact stated that the following day, while attempting to start the vehicle, the vehicle failed to crank. The contact noticed smoke coming from under the hood. The contact and the contact's son exited the vehicle. The contact stated that fire came from under the hood, and the vehicle was consumed in the fire. The fire department arrived and extinguished the fire. The contact stated that it was a scary event. In addition, the contact stated that her minor son was traumatized by the event. No medical treatment was reported. The Fire Department Inspector informed the contact that the source of the fire was not confirmed. The insurance company had not inspected the vehicle. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 170,000.

    NHTSA complaint ODI #11733006

  • Engine caught fire while driving on the highway. · filed Jun 2025
    Read the owner's complaint

    while driving on the highway the engine caught fire.

    NHTSA complaint ODI #11670311

  • Check engine light came on about 30 minutes before the engine caught fire, resulting in total loss of the vehicle. · filed Aug 2024
    Read the owner's complaint

    The malfunction component was the engine. My safety and other was very risky and dangerous. Unknown if the problem was reproduced or confirmed by dealer. The vehicle was inspected by police. The only warning lamp was the engine lamp that appeared approximately 30 minutes before the engine caught fire resulting in total car loss.

    NHTSA complaint ODI #11610212

Excessive engine oil consumption

Safety impact unclear

Owners report the engine burning oil quickly between changes, sometimes with tapping noises and no warning light.

How common
10 of the 300 complaints we read (3%), roughly 64 of all 1,908 on file
Safety
Safety impact unclear
Related recalls
Owners mention 17V226000. Check the VIN for it.
  • Engine lost power and entered limp mode repeatedly due to oil consumption and knocking, and owner says Hyundai declined to replace the engine. · filed May 2023
    Read the owner's complaint

    Was losing power while driving, oil consumption issues (had to add oil every 1000 miles). Engine started knocking and went into limp mode, had it towed to dealership where they said they fixed it ($1100). Less then a week later while driving on the highway lost lower, went into limp mode (89 mph to 15 mph in seconds) and was almost hit by a semi truck. Car has been sitting at the dealership since May 2022, they said I need a new engine but Hyundai declined.

    NHTSA complaint ODI #11521095

  • Car sometimes won't start, burns oil and smokes, and acts like it's about to cut off with no power; the dealership refused to take the car back. · filed May 2022
    Read the owner's complaint

    Sometimes car won’t start right away, won’t even try to turn over. Burns lots off oil smokes , acts like it’s going to cut off, has no power. It started when I purchased it November 2020 been getting worse tried to take it back, dealership wouldn’t take it back it started getting a lot worse about February 2022

    NHTSA complaint ODI #11464410

  • Engine oil evaporates/burns off quickly, and the owner worries the engine could lock up as a result. · filed Nov 2021
    Read the owner's complaint

    Engine oil evaporates Motor could lock up

    NHTSA complaint ODI #11440755

Fuel line and fuel leaks

Injury risk: 5 of 7 reports

Owners report fuel leaking in the engine compartment or from the fuel pump, a strong gasoline smell, and in some cases a car that would not start.

How common
7 of the 300 complaints we read (2%), roughly 45 of all 1,908 on file
Safety
Injury risk: 5 of 7 reports
Related recalls
Owners mention 20V121000. Check the VIN for it.
  • After a recall repair, owner found gasoline leaking from the parked car and it would crank but not start. · filed Dec 2022
    Read the owner's complaint

    I had my car recall fixed on 12/10/2022 at the Burns Hyundai in Marlton NJ. It seems to have failed when I parked my car it smelled like gas and I got out and see gas all over the ground. They were supposed to fix 2 recalls on my vehicle. My gas was empty after I had just filled it. My car would not start. It cranked but didn’t start. There were no warning signs.

    NHTSA complaint ODI #11497173

  • Fuel got into the engine causing engine failure; the car has been towed for the related recall repair but the dealer has not begun work after weeks. · filed Jun 2022
    Read the owner's complaint

    FUEL IN ENGINE. ENGINE FAILURE. had car towed to hyundai of louisvile dealership due to recall on may 20,2022.as of today the dealer has not even began to do anything toward my car. i was told it may take up to 8 weeks before they could even look at my car. I was given a clain number from hyundai #19842116 and a case worker who has not helped at all. I was also denied a loaner from the dearlership

    NHTSA complaint ODI #11469789

  • Fuel is leaking onto the top of the engine and fumes are entering the cabin, matching a known recall defect, but Hyundai says the build date falls just outside the recall's cutoff. · filed Oct 2021
    Read the owner's complaint

    I have a 2013 Hyundai Sonata, with a build date of November 15, 2012. There is a NHTSA campaign, number 20V121000, that corresponds with Hyundai recall 189. The recall describes a fuel leak on the top of the engine, as well as "increasing the risk of engine compartment fire". My vehicle is currently experiencing the exact issue stated in the recall. According to the part 573 safety recall report 20V-121, the affected vehicles were produced at the Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Alabama with the production dates of November 26, 2012 - January 16, 2014, meaning I missed the "cut off" by 11 days. With that being said, local Hyundai dealerships and Hyundai cooperate with not perform the recall nor will the allow me to purchase the affected part so I can make the repair myself. In the mean time I am stuck with a vehicle that is leaking fuel onto the top of my engine, and fumes filling the cabin of my vehicle.

    NHTSA complaint ODI #11436969

Sudden unintended acceleration

Can affect control: 5 of 7 reports

Owners report the car suddenly racing or accelerating on its own, sometimes while parking with the brake pressed.

How common
7 of the 300 complaints we read (2%), roughly 45 of all 1,908 on file
Safety
Can affect control: 5 of 7 reports; 6 reports mention a crash; 3 reports mention an injury
  • Vehicle unexpectedly accelerated on its own when shifted into reverse, crashing into two parked cars. · filed Dec 2021
    Read the owner's complaint

    The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated that upon placing the vehicle into the (R) reverse position; the vehicle independently accelerated backward into her neighbor's driveway and hit two parked vehicles. The vehicle came to a stop when it crashed into the second vehicle and that second parked vehicle was deemed destroyed. The air bags did not deploy upon impact. No injuries were reported and a police report was filed. The contact was able to drive the vehicle back across the street and parked the vehicle on the road. The dealer was notified of the failure and informed her that since her vehicle was involved in an assurance claim, they could not render any assistance. The manufacturer was also notified of the failure and informed her that an investigation could not be performed unless she signed a waiver. The vehicle had yet to be repaired and remained in the possession of the contact. The failure mileage was 76,876.

    NHTSA complaint ODI #11445602

  • Vehicle suddenly accelerated on its own after the brake pedal was released from a stop, causing the driver to lose control and crash into a pole; airbags did not deploy and a passenger was injured by the seatbelt. · filed Aug 2019
    Read the owner's complaint

    TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 HYUNDAI SONATA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED AND THE VEHICLE AT A COMPETE STOP WHEN THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS RELEASED, THE VEHICLE UNINTENDED ACCELERATED CAUSING THE DRIVER TO LOSE CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE. AS A RESULT, THE CONTACT CRASHED INTO A POLE CAUSING SEVERE DAMAGE TO THE FRONT OF THE VEHICLE. NO WARNING LIGHTS ILLUMINED PRIOR TO THE FAILURE. THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY ON IMPACT. THE CONTACTS SPOUSE SUSTAINED SEVERE BRUISING FROM THE SEATBELT THAT REQUIRED MEDICAL ATTENTION. IT WAS UNKNOWN IF MEDICAL ATTENTION WAS SOUGHT. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO FORT MILL HYUNDAI (805 GOLD HILL ROAD, FORT HILL, SC 29708, 855-615-6368). THE VEHICLE HAD NOT BEEN REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED AND CASE NUMBER 15899953 WAS FILED. THE MANUFACTURER HAD A COPY OF THE VEHICLE LOGS AND INFORMED THAT CONTACT THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS NOT APPLIED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 77,000. *TT *TR PHOTOS ATTACHED 'PARTS OF THIS DOCUMENT HAVE BEEN REDACTED TO PROTECT PERSONALLY IDENTIFIABLE INFORMATION PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).'*JB

    NHTSA complaint ODI #11244912

  • Vehicle accelerated uncontrollably right after being shifted into drive and crossed a parking lot and embankment before stopping; manufacturer denied any defect. · filed Dec 2018
    Read the owner's complaint

    I EXPERIENCED AN UNEXPLAINED, UNCONTROLLED VEHICLE ACCELERATION. I STARTED THE VEHICLE, MOVED THE GEAR SHIFT TO DRIVE AND IT IMMEDIATELY ACCELERATED OUT OF CONTROL. I WAS UNABLE TO CONTROL THE VEHICLE AS IT RACED ACROSS A PARKING LOT, JUMPED A CURB, RAN UP AND THEN BACK DOWN AN EMBANKMENT AND CROSSED BACK ACROSS THE PARKING LOT UNTIL THE ACCELERATION CEASED. I REPORTED THE INCIDENT TO HYUNDAI AMERICA AND THEY HAD THE VEHICLE INSPECTED. THEIR RESPONSE WAS "WE WERE UNABLE TO FIND ANY MALFUNCTIONS OR DEFECTS THAT WOULD HAVE CAUSED THE ACCIDENT AS YOU ALLEGE. NOR WAS OUR INSPECTOR ABLE TO DUPLICATE THE CONDITION THAT YOU INDICATED CAUSED THE ACCIDENT. ACCORDINGLY, WHILE WE SYMPATHIZE WITH YOU ABOUT THE INCIDENT, FROM THE INFORMATION WE HAVE, WE MUST RESPECTFULLY DENY ANY LIABILITY IN CONNECTION WITH THE INCIDENT."

    NHTSA complaint ODI #11163836

Brake lights stay on

Reduced safety margin: 6 of 6 reports

Owners report brake lights staying lit when the car is parked or off, sometimes draining the battery, or not working correctly.

How common
6 of the 300 complaints we read (2%), roughly 38 of all 1,908 on file
Safety
Reduced safety margin: 6 of 6 reports
  • Brake lights do not work except the center brake light, which stays on constantly, and only one headlight works on low beam. · filed Nov 2024
    Read the owner's complaint

    There is no lights at all on the brake lights but the brake light in the back window stays on all the time the dim head light only lets one side work

    NHTSA complaint ODI #11623794

  • Rear brake lights stay on after the car is turned off, draining the battery and leaving the car unable to start. · filed Jul 2023
    Read the owner's complaint

    The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated that upon turning off the vehicle, the rear brake lights remained illuminated. Due to the failure, the vehicle failed to start up due to the battery being drained overnight. The contact researched the failure and discovered how to disconnect the brake lights to prevent the battery from being drained. The dealer was notified of the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 110,000.

    NHTSA complaint ODI #11530145

  • Brake lights stay on even when the engine is off, and this has happened multiple times. · filed Jun 2022
    Read the owner's complaint

    The brake lights stay on even with the engine off. Happened multiple time.

    NHTSA complaint ODI #11469753

Less common problems (complaints in the sample)

  • Front coil spring breakage (6)
  • Hybrid brake system faults (6)
  • Power steering assist loss (6)
  • Sunroof glass shattering (5)
  • Airbags not deploying (4)
  • Hybrid system shutdown (4)
  • Shift cable and rollaway (4)
  • Car not recognizing park (3)
  • Engine shaking and vibration (3)
  • Hesitation when accelerating (3)
  • Seat belt not retracting (3)
  • Transmission slipping (3)
  • Airbag warning light (2)
  • Brake caliper sticking (2)
  • Brakes failing to stop (2)
  • Cruise control buttons failing (2)
  • Door lock failure (2)
  • Front axle CV joint failure (2)
  • Front fender liner coming loose (2)
  • Hybrid battery failure (2)
  • Transmission jerky shifting (2)
  • Airbag deploying without crash (1)
  • Backup camera failure (1)
  • Blue Link app access (1)
  • Brake booster failure (1)
  • Brake noise (1)
  • Brakes not holding car (1)
  • Burning wire smell (1)
  • Dashboard cracking (1)
  • Engine coolant leak (1)
  • Fuel fumes in cabin (1)
  • Fuel pump failure (1)
  • Head gasket failure (1)
  • Headlight failure (1)
  • Headlight flicker (1)
  • Hood strut failure (1)
  • Intermittent electrical faults (1)
  • Key fob not detected (1)
  • Low fuel rail pressure (1)
  • Oil pan leak (1)
  • Paint chipping (1)
  • Power loss when lights switched on (1)
  • Push-button start failure (1)
  • Rear brake burning smell (1)
  • Rear seat belt not locking (1)
  • Seat belt anchor detachment (1)
  • Seat belt webbing fraying (1)
  • Speedometer reading high (1)
  • Steering wheel lock stuck (1)
  • Steering wheel shake when braking (1)
  • Trunk latch failure (1)

Recalls

9 total · 9 to confirm

Safety issues the manufacturer must repair for free. A recall means confirm the fix was done, not walk away.

Fuel system recall

Confirm it was repairedRecall 22V312000 · May 2022

A cracked fuel hose may leak fuel, which can increase the risk of a fire.

Remedy
Dealers will replace the low pressure fuel hose, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed October 10, 2022. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 227. This recall replaces NHTSA recall number 20V-121. Vehicles previously repaired under recall 20V-121 that did not receive a replacement fuel hose will need to have this new recall remedy performed.
Status
Remedy available. Confirm by VIN that this repair was completed.
What to do
Enter the VIN on NHTSA's recall lookup to confirm this car was repaired.

Fuel system recall

Confirm it was repairedRecall 20V121000 · Feb 2020

If the fuel line cracks, a fuel leak can occur, increasing the risk of a fire.

Remedy
Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the low-pressure fuel hose for damage or leaking, replacing it as necessary. If no damage or leaking is found, heat-protective tape will be installed. Repairs will be performed free of charge. The recall began August 10, 2020. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 189. This recall has been replaced by NHTSA recall number 22V-314.
Status
Remedy available. Confirm by VIN that this repair was completed.
What to do
Enter the VIN on NHTSA's recall lookup to confirm this car was repaired.

Safety recall

Confirm it was repairedRecall 18V934000 · Dec 2018

A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source can increase the risk of a fire.

Remedy
Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and replace the fuel pipe, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began March 1, 2019. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's recall number for this recall is 180.
Status
Remedy available. Confirm by VIN that this repair was completed.
What to do
Enter the VIN on NHTSA's recall lookup to confirm this car was repaired.

Seat belts recall

Confirm it was repairedRecall 18V137000 · Feb 2018

If the frontal air bags, seat belt pretensioners, and side air bags are disabled, there is an increased risk of injury to the vehicle occupants in the event of a vehicle crash that necessitates deployment of these safety systems.

Remedy
Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will install an external wire filter kit, free of charge. The recall began October 15, 2018. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 174.
Status
Remedy available. Confirm by VIN that this repair was completed.
What to do
Enter the VIN on NHTSA's recall lookup to confirm this car was repaired.

Seat belts recall

Confirm it was repairedRecall 17V617000 · Oct 2017

If the seat belt linkage detaches from the seat belt anchorage, it can not properly restrain the occupant in the event of a crash, increasing the risk of injury.

Remedy
Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will again verify the connection between the seat belt linkage and the pretensioner and additionally install a warning label to prevent future seat belt linkage detachment, free of charge. The recall began November 6, 2017. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 169.
Status
Remedy available. Confirm by VIN that this repair was completed.
What to do
Enter the VIN on NHTSA's recall lookup to confirm this car was repaired.

Engine recall

Confirm it was repairedRecall 17V226000 · Mar 2017

Bearing wear may result in the engine seizing, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy
Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the engine, replacing the engine short block, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began June 2017. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-800-633-5151. Hyundai's number for this recall is 162.
Status
Remedy available. Confirm by VIN that this repair was completed.
What to do
Enter the VIN on NHTSA's recall lookup to confirm this car was repaired.

Seat belts recall

Confirm it was repairedRecall 17V152000 · Mar 2017

In the event of a crash, if the seat belts detach from the anchor pretensioners, it can increase the risk of injury.

Remedy
Hyundai will notify owners and dealers will inspect the connection between the seat belt linkages and the seat belt anchor pretensioners, repairing them as necessary, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin April 7, 2017. Owner's may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for the recall is 160.
Status
Remedy available. Confirm by VIN that this repair was completed.
What to do
Enter the VIN on NHTSA's recall lookup to confirm this car was repaired.

Transmission recall

Confirm it was repairedRecall 14V434000 · Jul 2014

If the transmission shift cable detaches, the transmission gear selection may not match the indicated gear and the vehicle may move in an unintended or unexpected direction, increasing the risk of a crash. Furthermore, when the driver parks the vehicle, despite selecting the 'PARK' position, the transmission may not be in 'PARK.' If the vehicle is not in the 'PARK' position and the parking brake is not applied, there is a risk the vehicle will roll away as the driver and other occupants exit the vehicle or anytime thereafter. A vehicle rollaway increases the risk of injury to exiting occupants and bystanders.

Remedy
Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and, as necessary, repair the connection between the shift cable and shift lever, free of charge. The recall began in September 2014. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-800-633-5151. Hyundai's number for this recall is 123.
Status
Remedy available. Confirm by VIN that this repair was completed.
What to do
Enter the VIN on NHTSA's recall lookup to confirm this car was repaired.

Airbags recall

Confirm it was repairedRecall 12V352000 · Jul 2012

The curtain airbag may inflate without deployment command and increase the risk of injury to occupants of the vehicle. Additionally, an unexpected deployment would be a significant driver distraction and would limit the driver's visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy
Hyundai dealers will notify owners, and dealers will replace the curtain side airbags free of charge. This recall began on August 31, 2012. Owners may contact Hyundai at 1-800-633-5151.
Status
Remedy available. Confirm by VIN that this repair was completed.
What to do
Enter the VIN on NHTSA's recall lookup to confirm this car was repaired.
Is 1,908 complaints a lot? They were filed between 2012 and 2026, roughly 134 a year, which is more than the typical model in this dataset. We do not have sales figures for this model, so treat this as a rough volume, not a rate per car on the road. Popular, high-volume models naturally collect more complaints over time.

How does it compare with other years? The 2013 has 1,908 complaints on file, more than the 2012 (1,556) and more than the 2014 (745). Of the 16 model years of the Hyundai Sonata we cover, the 2011 has the most (3,376). Older model years have had longer to collect complaints.