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Sonata, which was introduced in 1985, was a facelifted version of the Hyundai Stellar with an engine upgrade, and was withdrawn from the market in two years due to poor customer reaction.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

30

3.7
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
hyundai sonata hybrid 2016 photo
Sonata hybrid 2016
Hyundai

58

5

26

3.5
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
hyundai sonata hybrid 2015 photo
Sonata hybrid 2015
Hyundai

46

4

21

3.2
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
hyundai sonata hybrid 2014 photo
Sonata hybrid 2014
Hyundai

26

3

34

3.4
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
hyundai sonata hybrid 2013 photo
Sonata hybrid 2013
Hyundai

104

4

27

3.6
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
hyundai sonata hybrid 2012 photo
Sonata hybrid 2012
Hyundai

151

6

24

3.5
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
hyundai sonata hybrid 2011 photo
Sonata hybrid 2011
Hyundai

94

6

26

3
  • 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. Izaiah Brakus 2025-02-18

    Vehicle year: 2011

    First generation lithium battery hybrid has performed very well in over 95,000 miles. No mechanical or body problems and very good mileage. Car looks brand new after 5 years of use. Unfortunately, just beyond the warranty period, the transmission decided to malfunction over the next 15,000 miles...

  2. Terrance Abbott 2025-02-15

    Vehicle year: 2015

    As other reviews have mentioned, I have experienced some issues with the car's responsiveness when accelerating. It can be concerning when trying to merge onto the highway or quickly get out of a tight spot. However, I have found that the brakes can be a bit grabby at slow speeds. Additionally, my gas mileage has been below the estimated amount. Overall, I believe there is room for improvement with this car.

  3. Lee Kuvalis 2025-02-06

    Vehicle year: 2015

    This is my third sonata, my first hybrid. The gas mileage on average is 19 to 22, and I have experienced some issues with the electronics and cruise control. Unfortunately, I have not received any response from Hyundai, despite reaching out to them multiple times. I hope to find a solution soon.

  4. Bradly Bosco 2025-02-05

    Vehicle year: 2014

    I love my loaded 2012 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid. It's a comfortable and great looking family car. However, I have some concerns about its safety. Some issues like delayed acceleration, sudden surges of acceleration, and random shut-offs while driving, as well as a malfunctioning radio, have been reported by other drivers. It's important to consider these issues before making a purchase decision for your family. Please read other reviews to get a better understanding of the car's performance.

  5. Ricardo Reinger 2025-02-04

    Vehicle year: 2017

    Hi there! I've been having some trouble with my car lately. Sometimes it won't start after I turn it off. I've already taken it to the dealer four times, but they still haven't been able to figure out what's wrong with it. It's frustrating because I have a great warranty, but it's not very helpful if the dealer can't find the issue. Do you have any suggestions?

Latest positive Hyundai Sonata hybrid car reviews

  1. Reynold Towne 2025-02-21

    Vehicle year: 2016

    We have two other Hyundai cars, an '07 Accent and a '13 Elantra GT, and they have been great. Recently, we had the opportunity to drive a Sonata Hybrid SE as a service loaner car and we were really impressed. It was getting over 40 MPG on the same driving mix that the Elantra GT was only getting 28-29 MPG. We decided to make a change and traded in our Elantra GT and our '07 Audi Cabriolet. We opted for a Limited model with the Ultimate package, which includes a leather interior, heated/cooled seats, panoramic sunroof, 400W stereo, and safety gadgets. We got a great deal on it too! The MSRP was $36K, but we got it for under $30K. We have driven 900 miles so far and still have 200 miles left on the second tank of gas. We have seen as high as 56 MPG on a few trips and consistently get in the low 40s. The ride is very quiet, it drives sporty for its size, and the acceleration is very reasonable since the electric motor provides instant torque.

  2. Myrl Wilderman 2025-02-21

    Vehicle year: 2016

    I owned the 2013 Sonata Hybrid Limited and it was a great car. It had excellent pick up and handling, and the gas mileage was impressive. Although I usually buy a new car by the time it reaches 36,000 miles, I was so happy with the 2013 model that I didn't see any reason to change. However, I recently had the opportunity to drive the 2016 Sonata Hybrid Limited and I was pleasantly surprised by the upgrades Hyundai had made. The interior is beautiful and they even added passenger side electric seats that heat and cool. While the pick up may not be as good as the 2013 model, the improved gas mileage, heated steering wheel, and multiple warning devices make this car amazing. The car even has a feature that warns you when the pavement is at freezing temperatures and reminds you to take your foot off the accelerator. The navigation system also tells you the speed limit for the street you are on. The 2016 model also has a panoramic roof, which adds a touch of luxury without the hefty price tag. It's now August 2017 and the car has about 15,000 miles, but I still love it. Everyone who gets in is surprised at how roomy it is, and the trunk is huge. With gas prices going up again, it's becoming an even better value.

  3. Deshaun O'Reilly 2025-02-18

    Vehicle year: 2013

    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.

  4. Deion Ebert 2025-02-17

    Vehicle year: 2013

    If you are considering purchasing a used Sonata Hybrid, it is important to note that those manufactured in Alabama between 2011-2014 may have faulty Theta II engines. While regular Sonatas were recalled for engine repair after a class action lawsuit, the hybrids were not. The hybrids may fail at around 90,000 miles, likely due to the hybrid battery assist on the engine. The Center for Automobile Safety reports that other Sonata Hybrids are experiencing engine failure at around 90,000 miles and catching fire. To ensure your safety, it may be best to avoid purchasing a used Sonata Hybrid manufactured in Alabama until Hyundai recalls and fixes the engines. Thank you for considering this information.

  5. Cletus Ernser 2025-02-16

    Vehicle year: 2014

    I only had my '13 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid for 6 weeks before it was totaled by someone running a red light.The car did what is was supposed to and protected my son and I from serious injury.The airbags went off and even the body shop said it fared very well for the impact it received. I enjoyed the car and think you get a lot for your money.The gas mileage was a little disappointing, but it had better than expected acceleration up hills.I think it has great styling and looks a lot like a Lexus.My only other complaint would be the gas pedal had a strange placement, I felt I had to have my seat too close in order to comfortable press on the gas pedal.

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