Hyundai problems
The Hyundai Motor Company, often referred to as Hyundai Motors, (Korean: 현대자동차; Hanja: 現代自動車; RR: Hyeondae Jadongcha listenⓘ) and commonly known as Hyundai, (Korean: 현대; Hanja: 現代; RR: Hyeondae, IPA: ; lit. 'modernity') is a South Korean multinational automotive manufacturer headquartered in Seoul, South Korea, which was founded in 1967. Currently, the company owns 33.88 percent of Kia Corporation, and fully owns two marques including its luxury cars subsidiary, Genesis, and their electric vehicle brand Ioniq. The three brands altogether make up the Hyundai Motor Group.
Hyundai operates the world's largest integrated automobile manufacturing facility in Ulsan, South Korea which has an annual production capacity of 1.6 million units. The company employs approximately 75,000 people worldwide. Hyundai vehicles are sold in 193 countries through 5,000 dealerships and showrooms. As of 2022, Hyundai is the world's third-largest carmaker in terms of production, only falling behind Toyota and Volkswagen.
History
Chung Ju-yung (1915–2001) founded the Hyundai Engineering and Construction Company in 1947. Hyundai Motor Company was later established in 1967, and the company's first model, the Cortina, was released in cooperation with Ford Motor Company in 1968. When Hyundai wanted to develop their own car, they hired George Turnbull in February 1974, the former managing director of Austin Morris at British Leyland. He in turn hired five other top British car engineers. They were body designer Kenneth Barnett, engineers John Simpson and Edward Chapman, John Crosthwaite, formerly of BRM, as chassis engineer and Peter Slater as chief development engineer. In 1975, the Pony, the first South Korean car, was released, with styling by Giorgio Giugiaro of Italdesign and powertrain technology provided by Japan's Mitsubishi Motors. Exports began in the following year to Ecuador and soon thereafter to the Benelux countries. Hyundai entered the British market in 1982, selling 2993 cars in their first year there.
In 1984, Hyundai began exporting the Pony to Canada, but not to the United States, as the Pony would not pass emissions standards there. Canadian sales greatly exceeded expectations, and it was at one point the top-selling car on the Canadian market. In 1985, the one millionth Hyundai car was built. Until the 1986 introduction of the larger Hyundai Grandeur, Hyundai offered a locally assembled Ford Granada for the South Korean executive market. The import of these knocked down kits was permitted as long as Hyundai exported five cars for every single Granada brought in (the same demands were placed on Kia).
In 1986, Hyundai began to sell cars in the United States, and the Excel was nominated as "Best Product #10" by Fortune magazine, largely because of its affordability. The company began to produce models with its own technology in 1988, beginning with the midsize Sonata. In the spring of 1990, aggregate production of Hyundai automobiles reached the four million mark. In 1991, the company succeeded in developing its first proprietary gasoline engine, the four-cylinder Alpha, and also its own transmission, thus paving the way for technological independence.
In 1996, Hyundai Motor India Limited was established with a production plant in Irungattukottai near Chennai, India.
In 1998, Hyundai began to overhaul its image in an attempt to establish itself as a world-class brand. Chung Ju-yung transferred leadership of Hyundai Motor to his son, Chung Mong-koo, in 1999. Hyundai's parent company, Hyundai Motor Group, invested heavily in the quality, design, manufacturing, and long-term research of its vehicles. It added a 10-year or 100,000-mile (160,000 km) warranty to cars sold in the United States and launched an aggressive marketing campaign.
In 2004, Hyundai was ranked second in "initial quality" in a survey/study by J.D. Power and Associates in North America. Hyundai is now one of the top 100 most valuable brands worldwide according to Interbrand. Since 2002, Hyundai has also been one of the worldwide official sponsors of the FIFA World Cup.
In 2006, the South Korean government initiated an investigation of Chung Mong-koo's practices as head of Hyundai, suspecting him of corruption. On 28 April 2006, Chung was arrested, and charged for embezzlement of 100 billion South Korean won (US$106 million). As a result, Hyundai vice chairman and CEO, Kim Dong-jin, replaced him as head of the company.
On 30 September 2011, Yang Seung-suk announced his retirement as CEO of Hyundai Motor Co. In the interim replacement period, Chung Mong-koo and Kim Eok-jo divided the duties of the CEO position.
In 2014, Hyundai started an initiative to focus on improving vehicle dynamics in its vehicles and hired Albert Biermann, former Vice President of Engineering at BMW M, to direct chassis development for Hyundai vehicles, stating: "The company intends to become a technical leader in ride and handling, producing vehicles that lead their respective segments for driver engagement."
On 14 October 2020, Euisun Chung was inaugurated as the new chairman of the Hyundai Motor Group. His father, Chung Mong-koo, has been made Honorary Chairman.
In April 2021, the company said that its profits rose by 187%, the highest rise in four years. The company recorded a profit of $1.16 billion from the beginning of 2021 until March.
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Hyundai models
Common Hyundai problems
Based on complaints from Hyundai car owners, several common problems have been identified:
- Transmission Troubles: Transmission problems, including difficulty shifting gears, slipping gears, and unusual noises while driving, have been reported in both automatic and manual Hyundai models. Regular checks of the transmission fluid and timely replacements are crucial to address these issues.
- Electrical System Malfunctions: Hyundai cars have experienced electrical issues like power windows problems, central locking issues, dashboard light malfunctions, and battery drainage. Faulty wiring, blown fuses, or malfunctioning components can lead to these problems. It is advisable to consult an authorized Hyundai service center to diagnose and repair electrical system issues.
- Suspension and Steering Problems: Owners have reported suspension and steering issues that affect ride comfort and handling. Symptoms include excessive bouncing, uneven tire wear, and difficulty steering. Regular inspections of suspension components like shocks, struts, and bushings are essential to identify and address potential problems.
- Brake System Concerns: Critical for safety, brake-related issues like squeaking or grinding noises, reduced braking power, and a pulsating brake pedal have been reported. Prompt inspection and potential replacement of brake pads and rotors, along with checking the hydraulic system for leaks, are necessary to ensure safety.
By addressing these common problems promptly and with professional assistance, Hyundai owners can maintain the longevity and optimal performance of their vehicles. Regular maintenance and timely repairs are key to ensuring a safe and reliable driving experience.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Hyundai models
We have analysed all the complaints filed against Hyundai cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Hyundai models:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Hyundai brand.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Hyundai models
We have also compiled a table for you with the number of complaints about specific models of Hyundai cars:
Distribution of Hyundai car problems by type
Based on an anlyse of all Hyundai related complaints and concluded that the most common problems with Hyundai cars are the following:
- Engine problems
- Electrical system problems
- Service brakes problems
- Air bags problems
- Steering problems
Below is a graph with statistics on all Hyundai vehicle components and the number of complaints about them.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Hyundai models
A total of 3204 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Hyundai models
There were a total of 1381 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Hyundai models
There were a total of 2841 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model.
Distribution of the number of complaints with deaths by Hyundai models
There were a total of 68 complaints that resulted in a death. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model.
The NHTSA has received 51666 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Hyundai Hyundai. Below are 15 recent complaints about various Hyundai models. In order to research complaints about a particular brand you need to select it from the list of available models above.
List of the last 15 complaints about Hyundai models
Hyundai Sonata 2011
- Date Of Incident: 2024-01-05
- Date Complaint: 2024-11-19
- Number Of Injuries: 0
- Number Of Deaths: 0
- Crash: 0
- Fire: 0
- VIN: 5NPEC4AC2BH
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: The interior and exterior driver side door and driver side rear door handles are no longer functional on this vehicle. This is a well known problem with these vehicles that poses a grave safety hazard. In the event of a fire or accident, it would be impossible to exit or gain access to my vehicle without breaking the side glass. I have spoken to my Hyundai dealer and they agreed that it is a known, dangerous problem, however no TSB or recall has been issued. My only recourse is to pay to have this defect repaired. This is the first vehicle I have ever owned that has had this type of issue.
Hyundai Sonata 2011
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-06
- Date Complaint: 2024-11-14
- Number Of Injuries: 0
- Number Of Deaths: 0
- Crash: 0
- Fire: 0
- VIN: 5NPEB4AC1BH
- Components: SEAT BELTS,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: My car will randomly shut off while I’m driving. My seatbelt comes undone My door has opened while I was driving down the highway.
Hyundai Sonata 2011
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-10
- Date Complaint: 2024-11-11
- Number Of Injuries: 0
- Number Of Deaths: 0
- Crash: 0
- Fire: 0
- VIN: 5NPEB4AC5BH
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: The car engine seized while driving on the highway.
Hyundai Sonata 2011
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-23
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-30
- Number Of Injuries: 0
- Number Of Deaths: 0
- Crash: 0
- Fire: 0
- VIN: 5NPEC4ACXBH
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Engine consumes oil profusely. 175000miles. Complaint #: [XXX], 8/23/24. Car is not drivable parked. Common complaint. Should have been RECALLED. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Hyundai Sonata 2011
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-30
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-30
- Number Of Injuries: 0
- Number Of Deaths: 0
- Crash: 0
- Fire: 0
- VIN: 5NPEC4AC8BH
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2011 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, there was a loud knocking sound coming from the engine with the check engine warning light illuminated. The contact stated that the vehicle lost motive power. The vehicle was restarted; however, the failure recurred. The vehicle was towed to the dealer but was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and confirmed that the VIN was not included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 15V568000 (ENGINE) because the maintenance records were not provided and the dealer deemed that the vehicle was poorly maintained. The approximate failure mileage was 280,000.
Hyundai Sonata 2011
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-07
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-30
- Number Of Injuries: 2
- Number Of Deaths: 0
- Crash: 0
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 5NPEC4AB9BH
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The contact owned a 2011 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated that while her husband was driving at 60 MPH, the instrument panel started flickering, the engine started to rev, and the vehicle stalled. The vehicle veered to the side of the road and was parked. The contact then noticed that there was smoke coming from the vehicle and proceeded to open the hood of the vehicle. Soon after, flames were discovered coming from under the vehicle. The contact and her husband removed all personal items and watched from a safe distance. The fire department arrived at the scene however the vehicle was entirely consumed by the fire. The ambulance also arrived at the scene however no medical attention was provided since there were no physical injuries. The contact and her husband sustained emotional distress due to the incident. A police report was filed. The vehicle was destroyed. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.
Hyundai Sonata 2011
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-29
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-29
- Number Of Injuries: 0
- Number Of Deaths: 0
- Crash: 0
- Fire: 0
- VIN: KMHEC4A49BA
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER,SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE
- Summary: Leaking
Hyundai Ioniq 5 2023
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-24
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-27
- Number Of Injuries: 0
- Number Of Deaths: 0
- Crash: 0
- Fire: 0
- VIN: KM8KMDAF3PU
- Components: LANE DEPARTURE
- Summary: Vehicle disengaged lane keeping ADAS without warning multiple times. Sometimes a warning beep would occur, but often on turns it would suddenly disengage without a beep or any other warning method causing me to have to yank the wheel to complete the turn correctly and avoid running off the road. This has caused me to not trust the system and fight the lane keeping feature just in case it suddenly turns off and goes into the other lane before I have a chance to correct the steering.
Hyundai Santa fe 2023
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-27
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-27
- Number Of Injuries: 0
- Number Of Deaths: 0
- Crash: 0
- Fire: 0
- VIN: 5NMS2DA11PH
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: I am afraid of getting myself or someone else killed because there is a 1-2 second lag after stepping on the gas pedal after coming to a stop. This is extremely dangerous. My street empties onto a county road with a blind curve. I have had several instances when the delay between the car moving after I’ve stepped on the gas has lead to oncoming cars needing to slam on their brakes to avoid hitting me. I even called the county and asked that they put up a “dangerous curve sign. They put up a squiggly arrow instead which has not helped. My previous gas vehicles made this turn safely for 20 years. My nephew told me it’s a new feature in cars called “stop and gol meant to save gas. I think saving my life is more important than saving a little bit of gas. It happens all the time so I will put todays date in the space below.
Hyundai Sonata 2022
- Date Of Incident: 2023-11-11
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-27
- Number Of Injuries: 0
- Number Of Deaths: 0
- Crash: 0
- Fire: 0
- VIN: KMHL54JJ8NA
- Components: STEERING,AIR BAGS,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: When outside temperature drops, car starts in morning with several warning lights illuminated, indicating fault with several safety systems including airbags, brake, power steering, front camera, blind-spot collision warning system, traction control and smart cruise control. Car key fobs have consistently failed, disabling access to the vehicle. The vehicles 12V reset recently failed which required Hyundai Roadside Assistance (10/25/24). According to BlueLink application, cars 12V battery has been reset dozens of times, which is information visible to the service centers. However, at several past service appointments it has been verbally stated that "problem can not be replicated" and was not documented. Problem was confirmed by Hyundai service center on March 13, 2024. Problem was not resolved at the time of service, vehicle was returned back without resolution. With temperatures now dropping at night, said issues are occurring daily with warning indicators for failing safety systems illuminating upon cold start and electrical system failing daily.
Hyundai Elantra 2023
- Date Of Incident: 2024-03-06
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-27
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Number Of Deaths: 0
- Crash: 1
- Fire: 0
- VIN: 5NPLS4AG3PH
- Components: POWER TRAIN,SERVICE BRAKES,LANE DEPARTURE
- Summary: I have been encountering a series of troubling and erratic issues with my vehicle. These problems occur under various driving conditions, including acceleration, steady-state driving, and braking. However, the most prevalent and problematic occurrences seem to transpire during acceleration and braking. During acceleration, I've observed inconsistent behavior. Sometimes, the car shifts smoothly, with minimal torque drop between gears. On other occasions, the vehicle accelerates initially but then abruptly loses all power between gears, resembling the sensation of someone engaging the clutch in a manual vehicle and shifting slowly. This results in a temporary power loss lasting 1-2 seconds, followed by an over-revving and clutch slip, leading to an unintended surge in acceleration. The issues I've encountered during braking typically begin with a chattering noise and vibrations that seem to be an imbalanced or shocked reciprocating mass, I can assume maybe one of the clutches/flywheel . This is often followed by decreased brake pedal linearity, requiring increased brake pedal pressure to stop. This normally results in an unintended aggressive forward jerk just before coming to a stop, akin to someone releasing a clutch on a manual transmission vehicle too quickly when downshifting while the engine speed is too low. One night I went to get diapers for my baby and it was raining and I hit the breaks and the breaks lost control and I crashed into a median wall and my car kept spinning around. Ambulance were called and I was admitted to the hospital with minor injuries.
Hyundai Santa fe 2016
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-27
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-27
- Number Of Injuries: 0
- Number Of Deaths: 0
- Crash: 0
- Fire: 0
- VIN: 5XYZUDLB5GG
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: Hard Shift occurs between gear 1 and gear 2. The hard shift lurches the entire car. It occurs on both upshift and downshift. The hard shift occurs on cold starts. The problem goes away when you turn the vehicle off and then back on. There are no check engine lights. The dealer can't replicate the problem.
Hyundai Sonata 2018
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-27
- Number Of Injuries: 0
- Number Of Deaths: 0
- Crash: 0
- Fire: 0
- VIN: 5NPE34AF7JH
- Components: POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE
- Summary: My car is part of a campaign due to rod-bearing failure where the engine experiences problems such as complete failure, vibrating, hesitating, engine light on, and oil light on. I've been communicating with Hyundai who is not helping me with this issue. I was advised by them to continue driving the car "until the engine seizes", or I hear "a loud knocking noise". Upon inspection, three local Hyundai employees "agreed 100%" I need a new engine. However, per these employees Hyundai Corporate will not approve the replacement even though the vehicle is constantly experiencing the above symptoms above, simply because there is not a "loud knocking noise" coming from the engine. Even though ALL the other issues are present. This is very unsafe. I have a minor child I take to school daily, for an advisor to advise to drive the vehicle until "the engine seizes" is extremely dangerous, especially when they are aware my VIN is associated with engine replacement. My car exhibits symptoms of a rod-bearing failure and this multi-billion dollar company is taking advantage of hard-working urban mothers, by turning a blind eye and trying to require me to pay thousands of dollars up front for a problem THEY created by selling a vehicle with faulty engine. Again, the technicians indicated i in fact do need the engine replaced, but that Hyundai Corporate will require me to pay for a diagnostic test, rod-bearing test, and engine compression test because Corporate does not take their word for it. The fact a auto manufacturer is advising people to drive in such an unsafe manner is disheartening. If my child and I get injured in an accident by following their advice, our blood will be on their hands!
Hyundai Santa fe 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2019-02-02
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-27
- Number Of Injuries: 0
- Number Of Deaths: 0
- Crash: 0
- Fire: 0
- VIN: 5XYZTDLB3HG
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: My car has 81,000 miles on it, I have had regular oil changes and after reading many recalls on here I see I am definitely not alone. My check engine light stays on, after paying $100. for dealer to check the codes I was told nothing in particular showed a problem even though I have to put oil in my car between oil changes and there are no leaks on drive. Apparently the 100K mile warranty is not being honored from the other reports I have read on here. Why ??? The price of new cars is beyond reach and if dealer is claiming there is a warranty there be should be way to make them honor it!!!
Hyundai Santa fe 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-23
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-27
- Number Of Injuries: 0
- Number Of Deaths: 0
- Crash: 0
- Fire: 0
- VIN: KM8SRDHFXFU
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
- Summary: The engine has basically come apart. There is a timing chain issue, the engine is not recalled and it is getting where the car cannot drive. There is a constant smell of burning electrical wires. There’s also issues with the heating and air that is related to electrical.
Latest 5 Hyundai recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 788 recalls involving various Hyundai models.You can learn more about the model you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Hyundai Nexo 2019
- Report Received Date: 2024-10-11
- Manufacturer: Hyundai Motor America
- Park Out Side: 1
- Park Out Side: 1
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY:PRESSURE RELIEF DEVICES
- Summary: Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2019-2024 Nexo vehicles. The thermally activated pressure relief device (TPRD) may break and cause a hydrogen gas leak, which can result in a fire while parked.
- Consequence: A vehicle fire increases the risk of injury.
- Remedy: Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures until the recall remedy is completed. Dealers will replace the TPRD, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed December 10, 2024. Owners may contact Hyundai Customer Service at 800-633-5151. Hyundai's number for this recall is 269.
- Model: Hyundai Nexo 2020
- Report Received Date: 2024-10-11
- Manufacturer: Hyundai Motor America
- Park Out Side: 1
- Park Out Side: 1
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY:PRESSURE RELIEF DEVICES
- Summary: Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2019-2024 Nexo vehicles. The thermally activated pressure relief device (TPRD) may break and cause a hydrogen gas leak, which can result in a fire while parked.
- Consequence: A vehicle fire increases the risk of injury.
- Remedy: Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures until the recall remedy is completed. Dealers will replace the TPRD, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed December 10, 2024. Owners may contact Hyundai Customer Service at 800-633-5151. Hyundai's number for this recall is 269.
- Model: Hyundai Nexo 2021
- Report Received Date: 2024-10-11
- Manufacturer: Hyundai Motor America
- Park Out Side: 1
- Park Out Side: 1
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY:PRESSURE RELIEF DEVICES
- Summary: Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2019-2024 Nexo vehicles. The thermally activated pressure relief device (TPRD) may break and cause a hydrogen gas leak, which can result in a fire while parked.
- Consequence: A vehicle fire increases the risk of injury.
- Remedy: Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures until the recall remedy is completed. Dealers will replace the TPRD, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed December 10, 2024. Owners may contact Hyundai Customer Service at 800-633-5151. Hyundai's number for this recall is 269.
- Model: Hyundai Kona n 2023
- Report Received Date: 2024-09-06
- Manufacturer: Hyundai Motor America
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP:CONTROL/DRIVE MODULE
- Summary: Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2019-2022 Veloster N, 2019-2023 Genesis G70, 2022-2023 Elantra N, and Kona N vehicles. The fuel pump may fail, which can result in a loss of drive power.
- Consequence: A loss of drive power can increase the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will update engine control module software. In addition, dealers will inspect and replace the fuel pump assembly, as necessary. All repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed beginning September 9, 2024. Some interim notification letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed September 3, 2024. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's numbers for this recall are 262 and 023G.
- Model: Hyundai Veloster n 2021
- Report Received Date: 2024-09-06
- Manufacturer: Hyundai Motor America
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP:CONTROL/DRIVE MODULE
- Summary: Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2019-2022 Veloster N, 2019-2023 Genesis G70, 2022-2023 Elantra N, and Kona N vehicles. The fuel pump may fail, which can result in a loss of drive power.
- Consequence: A loss of drive power can increase the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will update engine control module software. In addition, dealers will inspect and replace the fuel pump assembly, as necessary. All repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed beginning September 9, 2024. Some interim notification letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed September 3, 2024. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's numbers for this recall are 262 and 023G.
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