Hyundai Sonata hybrid problems
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Sonata, which was introduced in 1985, was a facelifted version of the Hyundai Stellar with an engine upgrade, and was withdrawn from the market in two years due to poor customer reaction.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.
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Hyundai Sonata hybrid model years
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.
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:
- Hyundai Sonata hybrid 2012
- Hyundai Sonata hybrid 2013
- Hyundai Sonata hybrid 2011
- Hyundai Sonata hybrid 2016
- Hyundai Sonata hybrid 2015
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
Latest positive Hyundai Sonata hybrid car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2011
I purchased my Sonata hybrid in May and have been extremely pleased with it. Although there was some hesitancy in shifting between the electric and gas motor at low speeds, it did not bother me. I did not experience any difficulty with the brakes, which worked well in a couple of emergency stopping situations. I was able to achieve a mileage of over 40 MPG. About a month ago, I had the first service and Hyundai updated the computer hardware and software for free. After the service, there was absolutely no hesitancy in shifting and the MPG increased to 43-48 MPG. I am still very satisfied with this car and feel that it has only gotten better.
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Vehicle year: 2012
I received my new Sonata Hybrid on July 18th and I'm very pleased with it so far. After five tankfuls of fuel, I've been getting an average of over 39 MPG. If I mostly drive on the highway, I get an average of over 40 MPG, and if I mostly drive in the city or run errands, I get about 36 MPG. I haven't had any issues with switching between the electric and gas engine. I think there may be a learning curve to driving the car for the best fuel economy, as sometimes the gas engine kicks in pretty strongly, especially in hilly terrain. The car is very comfortable for long drives, and even with my bulged discs, I don't feel any discomfort (to be fair, my '07 Sonata was the same way). The handling may not be quite as good as my last Sonata, but this one also feels much bigger.
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Vehicle year: 2018
Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I wanted to share some information about my car with you. I bought it brand new in 2017 and it's been a great car so far! I've put a lot of miles on it - currently at 147,000 - but it's still running strong. I've taken good care of it, changing the oil every 10K using Mobile full synthetic oil and having regular maintenance done at Hyundia. The factory tires were replaced at 72K and the second set at 140K. The car used to get 40-42 mpg up to 140K miles, but after the last service, it's been slowly dropping to 32-37 mpg. I'm wondering if this is a sign that my hybrid battery is getting weak. Do you happen to know if there's a way to test the hybrid battery or if it's just going to die? Also, at what point would Hyundia replace the Hybrid battery? Thank you so much for your help!
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Vehicle year: 2013
I test drove a 2014 Toyota Camry Hybrid XLE, a 2014 Honda Accord Hybrid, a 2014 Toyota Prius Plug-In, and a 2013 Honda Civic Hybrid. All of these hybrid cars share the same feature, which is CVT (Continuous Variable Transmission). Since I work for Nissan and most Nissan's have a CVT in the car which are consistently being replaced, I passed on Honda/Toyota. However, the Hyundai Sonata Hybrid Limited has a smooth and quiet ride, with a lot of great features and gas mileage so far has been in the low to mid 30's. The fit and finish, seat comfort, back-up camera, nav, and bluetooth make this car a great choice. Don't listen to the bad reviews, I feel this car has a great value for the money. After driving the car for 2 1/2 years on the lease, I still feel this car is a great value for the money. However, the combined mileage is slightly better than my wife's 2012 Hyundai Sonata Limited. I get low 40's combined and Hyundai seems to overestimate overall mpg. Also, the 2013 Sonata Hybrid has the battery in the trunk which limits trunk space. I realize Hyundai changed the battery location to increase trunk capacity. Overall, if you're looking for a great used car, the 2013 Sonata Hybrid has a lot of great features and value as compared to Honda or Toyota. However, hybrid battery technology is better with other manufacturers. I plan on looking at the Hyundai Ioniq when my lease is up because I will not buy a Prius and would like to get better mpg closer to 50 combined.
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Vehicle year: 2012
The car seems to shift differently when it's cold, but once it warms up it runs smoothly. It's a nice ride on the highway and the options are easy to use. The braking is awesome and the style and looks are nice.
Are you having problems with your Hyundai Sonata hybrid?
Cole Wisoky 2025-07-11
Vehicle year: 2018
Okay, let's start with the negatives. When I first got the car, it took some time for the tires to break in and stop hydroplaning and sliding all over the place. Additionally, there were a few instances where the key wasn't recognized and I had to use the Blue Link remote start. Unfortunately, the remote start isn't very useful on a hybrid because it runs the gas engine for 15 seconds before switching to electric, and then times out after 10 minutes. The AC also takes a few minutes to start blowing cold air. After 6 months, I saw a 'check hybrid system' message while driving, but it went away. There was also one time when the auto headlights didn't turn off and I needed a jump start, but the roadside assistance took a while to arrive. Finally, after almost 11 months, I had an issue where the car wouldn't start and displayed a 'check hybrid system' message. I called for a tow, but after an hour, the car started working again. I cancelled the tow and the car is going into the dealership on Monday to check out the issue. Despite these issues, I'm still considering a Legacy from Subaru, but I'm not sure if I want to keep an unreliable car that cost me $34,000.
Trace Bradtke 2025-07-07
Vehicle year: 2014
We had leased the 2012 Sonata Hybrid and were planning to trade it in and lease a new one when the lease was up in July. Unfortunately, my stepmom passed away unexpectedly on Mother's Day, and we had to drive from Colorado to Missouri for the funeral. We decided to take the Sonata since it was the most reliable vehicle we had and we were well under the mileage allotment on our lease. However, a few days after we arrived, the engine started making a strange noise when we went out for dinner. We immediately parked it and called Hyundai the next morning to have it towed to the nearest dealership, which was Suntrup Hyundai in St. Louis. To our surprise, the engine had blown and we were required to pay for an engine replacement before we could turn it in on the lease. Despite offering maintenance records, Hyundai denied the claim before even reviewing them. After some persistence, we were able to fax the records and provide our mechanic's phone number. Although they did call him, they still denied the claim, citing improper maintenance. We were shocked, as we had taken good care of the vehicle and had even addressed some concerns our mechanic had previously voiced. Unfortunately, we were told we had to pay for a new engine as we had to turn in a running vehicle at the end of the lease. We fought it as long as we could, with multiple people in the Hyundai Corporation, but ultimately, the choice became pay for the engine, buy the car, or ruin our credit. We ended up paying $7,000 for the engine. After spending $790.00 on buying out the lease, I researched my car online and found numerous complaints about the 2012 Sonata Hybrid. It was disheartening to see that this model had the most complaints. As a long-time Hyundai owner, I was disappointed that they continue to ignore these issues and hold the consumer accountable. It would be great if they could cover these defects under their 100,000 mile warranty. However, it seems like they don't pay for their defects. I suggest that Hyundai should offer a lifetime, transferable warranty to give consumers peace of mind. I hope this helps anyone considering buying a Sonata Hybrid. It's important to keep a detailed journal of all maintenance and issues, no matter how slight, and get all of your maintenance done at a dealership. This way, you might have a better chance of getting any defects on your car fixed. [non-permissible content removed]
Skylar O'Kon 2025-07-05
Vehicle year: 2018
On September 3rd, I brought my car in for an acceleration issue. Unfortunately, it was determined that the hybrid battery was failing. I understand that this can be frustrating, but I wanted to let you know that the team is working hard to find a solution. As of October 7th, there are no batteries available, but they are keeping me updated on the situation. I appreciate their transparency and willingness to keep me informed. I hope to have my car back soon and I am confident that the team will do everything they can to resolve the issue. Thank you for your understanding.
Lucious Gislason 2025-07-04
Vehicle year: 2011
I am sorry to hear about your experience with the car. It sounds like it has been a huge disappointment and has caused some safety concerns. It is understandable that you cannot trust it after experiencing two near accidents. I hope you are able to find a solution to this issue soon.
Brandt Kreiger 2025-06-20
Vehicle year: 2014
Our Sonata Hybrid initially met our expectations, but we were disappointed to find that it did not achieve the advertised mileage. Unfortunately, we encountered a major engine issue this past summer, resulting in the need for a replacement after only three years of ownership. Despite the extended repair time due to parts availability, we were accused of neglecting oil changes, which we know is not true. Hyundai denied warranty coverage, resulting in significant out-of-pocket expenses. It is frustrating to learn that a recall has been issued for the exact same issue we experienced, yet our car is not included. We believe that Hyundai should prioritize customer satisfaction and stand behind their products. Overall, our experience has left us unable to recommend Hyundai to others.