Hyundai Sonata hybrid problems

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The Hyundai Sonata (Korean: 현대 쏘나타) is a mid-size car that has been manufactured by Hyundai since 1985. The first generation Sonata, which was introduced in 1985, was a facelifted version of the Hyundai Stellar with an engine upgrade, and was withdrawn from the market in two years due to poor customer reaction. While the nameplate was originally only sold in South Korea, the second generation of 1988 was widely exported.

The Sonata is currently manufactured in South Korea where their headquarters are located, China and Pakistan. It was named after the musical term, sonata.

First generation (Y1; 1985)

The first Sonata was introduced to compete with the Daewoo Royale series and was a more luxurious version of the Stellar. It included cruise control, power seats, head lamp washers, power brakes, electric operated adjustable side mirrors and chrome bumper trims. The Sonata was available with two trim options in Korea: Luxury and Super (the latter only available with a 2.0-liter engine). In the domestic market Hyundai attempted to sell the Sonata as an executive car using catchphrases like "Luxury car for VIP"; however, as the Sonata was based on the Stellar without any major changes, it was seen by the public as no more than a luxury version of the Stellar. In 1987 Hyundai added two tone color schemes and a trip computer option, but sales soon went down and the car was discontinued in December of that year. The Sonata was sold only in the South Korean domestic market. The vehicle was unveiled in South Korea on 4 November 1985.

Engine choices included 1.6-liter Mitsubishi Saturn (only available outside the domestic market), 1.8- and 2.0-liter Mitsubishi Sirius inline-fours. The latter unit also found its way into the 1987 and later Stellar, and in MPI form the 1986 Hyundai Grandeur. The body was a largely unchanged Hyundai Stellar.

It was sold in New Zealand (right hand drive) with the 1.6-liter Mitsubishi engine with the five-speed manual gearbox; an automatic transmission was an optional extra. The original importer was a unit of the Auckland-based Giltrap Motor Group.

The final version of the Stellar was known as the Stellar 88 and was launched to celebrate the 1988 Summer Olympics in Seoul. Afterwards, Hyundai discontinued the Stellar and replaced it with the all-new Sonata.

photo of Hyundai Sonata hybrid car production

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Hyundai Sonata hybrid model years

hyundai sonata hybrid 2018 photo
Sonata hybrid 2018
Hyundai

4

1

12

4.5
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
hyundai sonata hybrid 2017 photo
Sonata hybrid 2017
Hyundai

33

3

27

4.1
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
hyundai sonata hybrid 2016 photo
Sonata hybrid 2016
Hyundai

58

5

21

4.3
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
hyundai sonata hybrid 2015 photo
Sonata hybrid 2015
Hyundai

46

4

18

3.8
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
hyundai sonata hybrid 2014 photo
Sonata hybrid 2014
Hyundai

26

3

28

4.1
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
hyundai sonata hybrid 2013 photo
Sonata hybrid 2013
Hyundai

104

4

23

4.3
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
hyundai sonata hybrid 2012 photo
Sonata hybrid 2012
Hyundai

151

6

19

4.4
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
hyundai sonata hybrid 2011 photo
Sonata hybrid 2011
Hyundai

94

6

22

3.6
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1

Common Hyundai Sonata hybrid problems

Based on the complaints from owners of Hyundai Sonata Hybrid cars, several common problems have been reported. These issues include:

  • Engine Failure: Owners of the 2011 Sonata Hybrid have faced engine failure problems, with an average cost to fix of $7,200 and an average mileage of 91,000 miles. Additionally, engine seizing has been reported in the 2012 Sonata Hybrid, with an average cost to fix of $5,000 and an average mileage of 89,000 miles.
  • Faulty Speed Sensor: Many owners of the 2012 Hyundai Sonata have encountered issues with shifting gears due to a faulty speed sensor. This has led to vehicles producing clunking noises, shuddering, and difficulty in gear selection. Fortunately, the replacement speed sensor is relatively affordable, costing between $30 to $50.
  • Defective Speakers: Some Hyundai Sonata models, particularly those from 2011 to 2016, have been reported to have defective speakers. Owners have experienced issues where the CD player, navigation, radio, and phone calls did not produce audio. A simple fix involved disconnecting and reconnecting the negative battery terminal to resolve this issue.
  • Seat Belt Safety Recalls: Hyundai issued recalls for certain Sonata models due to seat belt safety concerns. In 2017, recalls were made for 2011-2014 Sonatas and 2011-2015 Sonata Hybrids due to faulty seat belt linkages that could fail to restrain occupants during a crash, increasing the risk of injury. These recalls aimed to address issues with the seat belt anchor pretensioner and ensure passenger safety.
  • Engine Seizure and Class Action Lawsuit: Engine failure in the 2011, 2012, and 2013 Hyundai Sonatas has been a significant problem, leading to engines seizing up while driving. This issue resulted in a class-action lawsuit against Hyundai, where affected owners received settlements covering engine repair and replacement, towing expenses, and rental fees. The settlement also extended warranties for certain Sonata models with specific engine types.

These common problems reported by Hyundai Sonata Hybrid owners highlight various mechanical and safety issues that have affected the driving experience and reliability of these vehicles.

Hyundai Sonata hybrid

Is the Hyundai Sonata Hybrid reliable?

The 2023 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid has a predicted reliability score of 81 out of 100.

How long does a Hyundai Sonata Hybrid battery last?

Under normal conditions, your car will require a hybrid battery replacement every 150,000 miles or 15 years, whichever comes first. This is just an average, so some drivers may get more use out of their batteries and some might get less in East Boston.

What is the most common problem with Hyundai Sonata?

The problems that commonly plague the Hyundai Sonata include safety issues, seizing engines, and shifting problems.

How much does it cost to replace a Hyundai Sonata Hybrid battery?

between $9,863 and $9,932

The average cost for a Hyundai Sonata Hybrid High Voltage Battery Replacement is between $9,863 and $9,932. Labor costs are estimated between $264 and $333 while parts are typically priced around $9,599.

Percentage distribution of complaints by Hyundai Sonata hybrid years

We have researched Hyundai problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Hyundai Sonata hybrid cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Hyundai Sonata hybrid model years:

Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Hyundai Sonata hybrid model years.

Distribution of the number of complaints by Hyundai Sonata hybrid years

We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:

Hyundai Sonata hybrid car problems categorized by type of issue

After analysing all complaints related to Hyundai Sonata hybrid , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:

  • Engine problems
  • Electrical system problems
  • Service brakes problems
  • Power train problems
  • Unknown or other problems

The graph below shows statistics for all Hyundai Sonata hybrid vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Sonata hybrid model years

A total of 24 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Sonata hybrid model years

There were a total of 19 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Sonata hybrid model years

There were a total of 23 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

The NHTSA has received 516 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Hyundai Sonata hybrid . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Hyundai Sonata hybrid vehicles.

Latest 25 complaints

Hyundai Sonata hybrid 2015
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-09-28
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-09
  • VIN: KMHEC4A48FA
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2015 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid. The contact took the vehicle to the dealer to be repaired under NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V651000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic) and Manufacturer recalls: 964 (Auxiliary Canister Installation), 966 (Engine Monitoring Module, ECU Software Update), and 994 (Hybrid Safety Fuse). The contact stated that after the repairs were completed, while attempting to start the vehicle at the dealer, the vehicle failed to start. The vehicle remained at the dealer who was unable to determine the cause of the failure. The vehicle had not been repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and confirmed that the vehicle was not covered under warranty for any further repairs. The failure mileage was 170,000.
Hyundai Sonata hybrid 2012
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-05-29
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-08
  • VIN: KMHEC4A40CA
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2012 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the accelerator pedal was depressed; however, the vehicle failed to accelerate as intended. Additionally, the ABS warning light was illuminated. The contact stated that the vehicle had to be turned off and restarted every ten minutes. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or the dealer. The contact stated that the vehicle was recently serviced by the dealer and NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V651000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic) was completed. The contact stated that the failure was present prior to the recall repair being performed. In addition, the contact stated that the failure reoccurred a week after the recall repair was completed. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 130,000.
Hyundai Sonata hybrid 2012
  • Date Of Incident: 2023-09-18
  • Date Complaint: 2024-09-24
  • VIN: KMHEC4A40CA
  • Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2012 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid. The contact stated while attempting to close the passenger’s side rear door, the door failed to lock as needed. The contact tied the door closed. The contact stated that the driver's side rear door was locked, and the contact was unable to open the door. The contact had taken the vehicle to a dealer when the passenger’s side door was not locking. The dealer diagnosed the vehicle and determined that the latch and locking mechanism needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact stated that when the driver's side rear door failed to lock securely, the vehicle was not returned to the dealer. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 41,000.
Hyundai Sonata hybrid 2011
  • Date Of Incident: 2021-01-01
  • Date Complaint: 2024-08-23
  • VIN: KMHEC4A4XBA
  • Components: STEERING
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2011 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid. The contact stated that upon starting or reversing, the steering wheel seized. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the local dealer, where an unknown diagnosis was provided. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer informed the contact that there was no warranty coverage on the vehicle for the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 82,000.
Hyundai Sonata hybrid 2015
  • Date Of Incident: 2019-12-15
  • Date Complaint: 2024-07-29
  • VIN: KMHEC4A49FA
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2015 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid. The contact stated while driving at various speeds, a message advising to pull over and to park the vehicle was displayed. The vehicle was taken to the dealer for diagnostic testing several times. The dealer replaced the HECU and the battery inverter assembly; however, the failure persisted. Additionally, the contact stated that while his son was driving at an undisclosed speed, the contact's son noticed that there was white smoke coming from the rear middle seat of the vehicle. An unknown warning light was illuminated. The contact's son pulled to the side of the road and turned off the vehicle. The vehicle failed to restart and was towed to the dealer, where it was diagnosed that the hybrid battery pack had failed, causing the hybrid battery to melt. The dealer determined that the hybrid battery pack needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact related the failure to Hyundai Campaign Number: 994. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 37,000.
Hyundai Sonata hybrid 2016
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-07-10
  • Date Complaint: 2024-07-19
  • VIN: KMHE34L1XGA
  • Components: VISIBILITY
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2016 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the driver's side sunroof detached. The contact stated that the sunroof was caught up on the netting in front of the sunroof. The contact stated that the tracks were fractured. There were no warning lights illuminated. The local dealer was contacted but the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was contacted, and the contact was informed that the repair was not covered under NHTSA Campaign Number: 16V726000 (Visibility). The approximate failure mileage was 103,000.
Hyundai Sonata hybrid 2013
  • Date Of Incident: 2023-08-07
  • Date Complaint: 2024-07-09
  • VIN: KMHEC4A45DA
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ENGINE
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V651000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted, and it was confirmed that the part was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact stated while driving approximately 45 MPH, there was smoke coming from the engine compartment before the vehicle stalled. The vehicle was towed to the local dealer. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The failure mileage was 145,000. Parts distribution disconnect.
Hyundai Sonata hybrid 2014
  • Date Of Incident: 2023-10-15
  • Date Complaint: 2024-06-28
  • VIN: KMHEC4A47EA
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2014 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid. The contact stated while driving 60 MPH, there was a knocking sound coming from the engine compartment, after which the vehicle lost motive power. The contact was able to pull to the shoulder of the roadway, where the vehicle stalled and failed to restart. Several unknow warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic, who diagnosed a failure with the rod bearings and observed metal shavings inside the short block. After investigating the failure, the contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 17V226000 (Engine and Engine Cooling) however, the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, a case was opened, and the contact was referred to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was 134,000.
Hyundai Sonata hybrid 2012
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-05-14
  • Date Complaint: 2024-05-14
  • VIN: KMHEC4A48CA
  • Components: POWER TRAIN,ENGINE,HYBRID PROPULSION SYSTEM
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2012 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle lost motive power and the low battery warning light illuminated. In addition, the contact heard a rattling sound coming from the engine before the engine seized. The vehicle was towed to the dealer where it was diagnosed with a failed hybrid system and that the hybrid system needed to be replaced. The contact was also informed that the transmission was not the original transmission, and the cooler was damaged. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 145,000.
Hyundai Sonata hybrid 2012
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-04-24
  • Date Complaint: 2024-05-10
  • VIN: KMHEC4A45CA
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2012 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the brake warning light illuminated. The contact pulled over on the side of the road and the vehicle was towed to the dealer to be diagnosed. The contact was informed that the ABS and hydraulic pump needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V651000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic) that was previously performed. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and informed the contact the failure was not related to the recall repair. The failure mileage was approximately 151,020.
Hyundai Sonata hybrid 2011
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-01-29
  • Date Complaint: 2024-05-08
  • VIN: KMHEC4A46BA
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2011 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid. That contact stated that the ABS fuse had been replaced but the vehicle experienced unstated failures with the braking system. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V651000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The failure mileage was approximately 138,000. Parts distribution disconnect.
Hyundai Sonata hybrid 2012
  • Date Of Incident: 2023-05-02
  • Date Complaint: 2024-05-02
  • VIN: KMHEC4A42CA
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2012 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V651000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
Hyundai Sonata hybrid 2014
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-05-01
  • Date Complaint: 2024-05-01
  • VIN: KMHEC4A45EA
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2014 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V651000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The contact stated that while attempting to start the vehicle the brake pedal went to the floorboard. The contact replaced the brake pads; however, the failure persisted. The dealer was made aware of the failure and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 172,453. Parts distribution disconnect.
Hyundai Sonata hybrid 2012
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-04-28
  • Date Complaint: 2024-04-29
  • VIN: KMHEC4A41CA
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2012 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the brakes became inoperable. There were no warning lights illuminated. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V651000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The approximate failure mileage was 155,290. Parts distribution disconnect.
Hyundai Sonata hybrid 2012
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-04-29
  • Date Complaint: 2024-04-29
  • VIN: KMHEC4A44CA
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2012 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed and depressing the brake pedal, the vehicle lunged forward. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic and diagnosed with automatic transmission failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 76,000.

Latest 5 recalls Hyundai Sonata hybrid

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 32 recalls for different components of the Hyundai Sonata hybrid.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.

  • Model: Hyundai Sonata hybrid 2015
  • Report Received Date: 2023-09-22
  • Manufacturer: Hyundai Motor America
  • Park Out Side: 1
  • Park Out Side: 1
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP:CONTROL UNIT/MODULE
  • Summary: Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2011-2015 Elantra, Genesis Coupe, Sonata Hybrid, 2012-2015 Accent, Azera, Veloster, 2013-2015 Elantra Coupe, Santa Fe, 2014-2015 Equus, 2010-2012 Veracruz, 2010-2013 Tucson, 2015 Tucson Fuel Cell, and 2013 Santa Fe Sport vehicles. The Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) module may leak brake fluid internally and cause an electrical short, which can result in an engine compartment fire while parked or driving.
  • Consequence: An engine compartment fire while parked or driving can increase the risk of injury.
  • Remedy: Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures until the recall repair is complete. Dealers will replace the ABS fuse, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 10, 2024 through October 11, 2024. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 251.
  • Model: Hyundai Sonata hybrid 2012
  • Report Received Date: 2023-09-22
  • Manufacturer: Hyundai Motor America
  • Park Out Side: 1
  • Park Out Side: 1
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP:CONTROL UNIT/MODULE
  • Summary: Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2011-2015 Elantra, Genesis Coupe, Sonata Hybrid, 2012-2015 Accent, Azera, Veloster, 2013-2015 Elantra Coupe, Santa Fe, 2014-2015 Equus, 2010-2012 Veracruz, 2010-2013 Tucson, 2015 Tucson Fuel Cell, and 2013 Santa Fe Sport vehicles. The Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) module may leak brake fluid internally and cause an electrical short, which can result in an engine compartment fire while parked or driving.
  • Consequence: An engine compartment fire while parked or driving can increase the risk of injury.
  • Remedy: Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures until the recall repair is complete. Dealers will replace the ABS fuse, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 10, 2024 through October 11, 2024. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 251.
  • Model: Hyundai Sonata hybrid 2011
  • Report Received Date: 2023-09-22
  • Manufacturer: Hyundai Motor America
  • Park Out Side: 1
  • Park Out Side: 1
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP:CONTROL UNIT/MODULE
  • Summary: Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2011-2015 Elantra, Genesis Coupe, Sonata Hybrid, 2012-2015 Accent, Azera, Veloster, 2013-2015 Elantra Coupe, Santa Fe, 2014-2015 Equus, 2010-2012 Veracruz, 2010-2013 Tucson, 2015 Tucson Fuel Cell, and 2013 Santa Fe Sport vehicles. The Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) module may leak brake fluid internally and cause an electrical short, which can result in an engine compartment fire while parked or driving.
  • Consequence: An engine compartment fire while parked or driving can increase the risk of injury.
  • Remedy: Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures until the recall repair is complete. Dealers will replace the ABS fuse, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 10, 2024 through October 11, 2024. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 251.
  • Model: Hyundai Sonata hybrid 2014
  • Report Received Date: 2023-09-22
  • Manufacturer: Hyundai Motor America
  • Park Out Side: 1
  • Park Out Side: 1
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP:CONTROL UNIT/MODULE
  • Summary: Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2011-2015 Elantra, Genesis Coupe, Sonata Hybrid, 2012-2015 Accent, Azera, Veloster, 2013-2015 Elantra Coupe, Santa Fe, 2014-2015 Equus, 2010-2012 Veracruz, 2010-2013 Tucson, 2015 Tucson Fuel Cell, and 2013 Santa Fe Sport vehicles. The Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) module may leak brake fluid internally and cause an electrical short, which can result in an engine compartment fire while parked or driving.
  • Consequence: An engine compartment fire while parked or driving can increase the risk of injury.
  • Remedy: Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures until the recall repair is complete. Dealers will replace the ABS fuse, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 10, 2024 through October 11, 2024. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 251.
  • Model: Hyundai Sonata hybrid 2013
  • Report Received Date: 2023-09-22
  • Manufacturer: Hyundai Motor America
  • Park Out Side: 1
  • Park Out Side: 1
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP:CONTROL UNIT/MODULE
  • Summary: Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2011-2015 Elantra, Genesis Coupe, Sonata Hybrid, 2012-2015 Accent, Azera, Veloster, 2013-2015 Elantra Coupe, Santa Fe, 2014-2015 Equus, 2010-2012 Veracruz, 2010-2013 Tucson, 2015 Tucson Fuel Cell, and 2013 Santa Fe Sport vehicles. The Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) module may leak brake fluid internally and cause an electrical short, which can result in an engine compartment fire while parked or driving.
  • Consequence: An engine compartment fire while parked or driving can increase the risk of injury.
  • Remedy: Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures until the recall repair is complete. Dealers will replace the ABS fuse, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 10, 2024 through October 11, 2024. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 251.

Latest negative Hyundai Sonata hybrid car reviews

  1. Wilfrid White 2024-11-23

    Vehicle year: 2014

    I purchased a brand new 2013 Sonata Hybrid Ltd and have been driving it for 18 months. Having driven many different brands in the past, including BMW, Mercedes, Honda, Toyota, GM, Nissan, and Ford, I have found that this car could use some improvement in terms of driving dynamics. It tends to rock back and forth and nose dive too much on road imperfections and during braking. Additionally, the gas pedal is not as responsive as I would like, which can be concerning when trying to clear an intersection at orange lights. The braking can also be a bit harsh at first, but then fades to being less effective when pressed hard. I have also experienced some creaking in the panoramic roof, despite the dealer's attempts to fix it. Finally, I have found the seats to be uncomfortable on trips longer than 2 hours. While the car is not the most fuel-efficient, it still gets the job done. Overall, I think there is room for improvement, but I still enjoy driving my Sonata Hybrid Ltd.

  2. Gregory Hayes 2024-11-19

    Vehicle year: 2017

    Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I wanted to share my thoughts on the car you mentioned. I think there are many great reasons to consider it, such as its excellent gas mileage and eco-friendliness. Personally, I'm a big fan of Hyundai cars - I've owned an Elantra that lasted forever, and their warranty is fantastic. However, I must admit that I'm a bit hesitant about the hybrid model. For one, there's no room for a spare tire, which makes me a bit uneasy. Additionally, I had an issue with the battery not charging while sitting in traffic, which was a bit frustrating. On the plus side, the car is so quiet that you hardly even notice it's on! Unfortunately, I've had some trouble with the check engine light coming on, and the mechanics can't seem to figure out why. All in all, I still think Hyundai is a great brand, but I think I'll stick to their non-hybrid models in the future. Thanks for listening!

  3. Everett Rohan 2024-11-02

    Vehicle year: 2011

    Our Hybrid's engine light has come back on for the fourth time now, about every two weeks or so. We've been told that it's due to a vapor leak sensor that keeps going off, and despite being adjusted for California emissions standards, the issue persists. Unfortunately, the factory doesn't have an answer and we've already had to go through six recall fixes. We're considering researching Lemon laws and waiting for a class action suit. Thank you for your attention to this matter.

  4. Freddy Halvorson 2024-10-20

    Vehicle year: 2015

    I'm so glad I purchased my 2015 Limited Sonata Hybrid with 58,000 miles, especially since Hyundai has such a generous warranty. Although I did experience some issues within the first month, my local dealer was incredibly helpful and both the hybrid battery and engine were replaced within the first two months, all covered under warranty. I'm so grateful for that because the repairs would have cost approximately $18,000 if I had purchased it out of warranty, according to the dealership! While the mileage is just okay for a hybrid, I really enjoy driving it now and think it looks great. I plan to keep driving it until the next big issue comes up. Overall, I'm grateful to the dealership and to Hyundai for doing the right thing and covering the repairs, even when the battery went bad at 61,000k and they still replaced it!

  5. Cade Reilly 2024-10-15

    Vehicle year: 2013

    There is a recall on the engine, but don't worry, it has great gas mileage. I understand how annoying it can be when the cup holder hits your leg on the door panel.

Latest positive Hyundai Sonata hybrid car reviews

  1. Adolfo Wuckert 2024-11-29

    Vehicle year: 2017

    Congratulations on your new Sonata Hybrid! It's great to hear that you got a good deal on it. It's impressive that you're getting closer to 44-50 MPG in your suburban/freeway driving. The car's acceleration is better than expected and it's great that the shifting between electric and gas mode is seamless. The Bluetooth voice dialing system is also a plus. It's understandable that the battery went bad prematurely, but it's still a great car overall. Thank you for sharing your experience with us!

  2. Regan Ruecker 2024-11-25

    Vehicle year: 2016

    Too new to rate on repairs and maintenance, but I'm glad to hear that you're enjoying the looks! The mpg is impressive, ranging from 39-56 mpg. I'm also happy to hear that the seating is very comfortable and that the AC works well in your hot climate.

  3. Keeley Runte 2024-11-24

    Vehicle year: 2012

    You've been driving for over 45 years and it's great to hear that this is the best car you've owned! The electronics are intuitive and it's easy to learn the significance of the beeping signals. After driving for just 10 days, you've mastered the smooth acceleration and braking. It sounds like you're having a lot of fun driving this car on highways and suburban and rural roads where you can consistently drive over 35 MPH. And the best part is that you're getting great gas mileage - 45+MPG at constant speeds between 35 and 55 MPH! Although it's a bit lower in stop-go slow speed driving, you're still averaging over 40 MPG overall. Thanks for sharing your positive experience with us!

  4. Quincy Bednar 2024-11-21

    Vehicle year: 2016

    Looks great, and super value! :)

  5. Rashawn Douglas 2024-11-21

    Vehicle year: 2017

    This car is really quiet, comfortable, and rides very well. Although it can be somewhat sluggish in Eco Driving Mode, it still manages to achieve a confirmed 45 MPG. The only negative aspect I've found is the depth (height?) of the trunk due to the battery below.

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