2011 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Sonata, which was introduced in 1985, was a facelifted version of the Hyundai Stellar with an engine upgrade, and was withdrawn from the market in two years due to poor customer reaction.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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Common 2011 Hyundai Sonata hybrid problems
The 2011 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid has been the subject of various complaints from owners, with the most common issues centering around the parking lights, transmission, timing chain tensioner, vehicle speed sensor, and EGR valve
- Parking Lights Don't Turn Off: This issue is attributed to a malfunction in the cabin fuse box. When the parking lights are turned on, they fail to shut off due to the internal malfunction. The fuse box needs to be replaced to rectify this problem .
- Transmission Won't Shift/CEL Due to Failed Speed Sensors in Transmission: The transmission may fail to shift, accompanied by a check engine light (CEL) appearing on the dashboard. This issue is caused by failed speed sensors in the transmission. The vehicle speed sensor is located in the transmission, and when it goes bad, it can trigger shifting quality issues. The good news is that if you notice transmission driveability issues, it's probably not the transmission itself but rather the speed sensor, which is a cheaper and easier fix .
- Timing Chain Tensioner: The timing chain tensioner is located inside the engine and connects the bottom of the engine to the top. When it fails, you may hear engine noise or rattling from that area. Hyundai has updated the timing chain tensioner to prevent this problem .
- Vehicle Speed Sensor: This sensor is located in the transmission and can cause a check engine light and shifting quality issues when it goes bad. However, if you notice transmission driveability issues, it's probably not the transmission but rather the speed sensor, which is a cheaper and easier fix .
- EGR Valve: The EGR valve can cause rough running or driving issues on the 2.7-liter V6 engine and the 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine. On the four-cylinder version, it is located underneath the intake. This issue can be resolved by cleaning or replacing the EGR valve .
In addition to these common problems, the 2011 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid has also faced issues related to the ZF-TRW crash sensor defect, rodents chewing on Hyundai's soy wiring, seat belts detaching during a crash, and the Blue Link standard feature.
The Blue Link standard feature has also been a source of complaints, with a Hyundai Blue Link lawsuit alleging that the automaker failed to inform owners that the telematics system would be disabled if inactive for more than one year, and to reactivate the system, an owner would allegedly be forced to change hardware at a minimum cost of $500. The lawsuit also alleges that Hyundai knew about the issue but failed to inform consumers, leading to a proposed settlement that would double the existing sunroof warranty, reimburse certain previously-paid expenses, and even offer cash to those that decide to sell their car within the next 90 days.
In summary, the 2011 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid has faced a range of common problems, including issues with the parking lights, transmission, timing chain tensioner, vehicle speed sensor, and EGR valve. Additionally, the car has been subject to recalls and investigations related to seat belts, airbags, and the Blue Link standard feature.
Does 2011 Hyundai Sonata have engine problems?
DETROIT (AP) — Hyundai is recalling nearly a half-million midsize cars in the U.S. to replace key engine parts because a manufacturing problem could cause them to fail. The recall covers 470,000 Sonata sedans from the 2011 and 2012 model years equipped with 2-liter or 2.4-liter gasoline engines.
Is Hyundai Sonata Hybrid reliable?
Like the regular Sonata, the Sonata Hybrid has built a reputation as a sensible, reliable midsize sedan at an attractive price.
Does 2011 Hyundai Sonata have transmission problems?
Hyundai Motor Co. is recalling 883,000 2011-2014 model-year Sonata sedans because of a potential transmission problem, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports. The transmission shift cable might detach from the shift lever pin.
How many miles does a 2011 Hyundai Sonata hybrid last?
Based on ownership data and reviews, the 2011 Sonata is a poorly made car with severe mechanical problems. You should expect one to last 100,000 to 150,000 miles when properly cared for, which is below average for its class. Repair Pal estimates it will cost $490 per year in maintenance.
2011 Hyundai Sonata hybrid car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Hyundai Sonata hybrid problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Engine problems
- Service brakes problems
- Steering problems
- Electrical system problems
- Power train problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2011 Hyundai Sonata hybrid vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2011 Hyundai Sonata hybrid
The NHTSA has received 94 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2011 Hyundai Sonata hybrid. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2011 Hyundai Sonata hybrid vehicles.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-01-01
- 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.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-01-29
- 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.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-04-24
- VIN: KMHEC4A44BA
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: The contact owns a 2011 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 not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-01-22
- VIN: KMHEC4A48BA
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: The contact owns a 2011 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 dealer was made aware of the issue. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-07-22
- VIN: KMHEC4A48BA
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: The contact owns a 2011 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid. The contact stated that upon retrieving the vehicle from the local dealer after a recall repair, the brakes were inoperable. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, where a diagnostic test was completed. The vehicle was repaired, but the failure recurred. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was unknown.
AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-11-01
- VIN: KMHEC4A47BA
- Components: AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2011 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid. The contact stated while starting the vehicle, the front driver's side air bag warning light was illuminated. The contact called the local dealer and made them aware of the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer informed the contact that NHTSA Campaign Number: 18V137000 (Seat Belts, Air Bags) was serviced by the previous owner in 2020. The failure mileage was approximately 141,000.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-06-01
- VIN: KMHEC4A47BA
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2011 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V746000 (Engine). The vehicle was taken to the local dealer and had recall repair was completed. The contact stated that two weeks after the repair, while driving 40 MPH, the vehicle failed to accelerate above 40 MPH. Additionally, there was an abnormal sound with the battery warning light illuminated. The contact parked in a parking lot and restarted the vehicle but continued to experience the failure. The vehicle was not drivable. The contact towed the vehicle to Allen Turner Hyundai (6501 Pensacola Blvd, Pensacola, FL 32505: (850) 479-9667) however, the vehicle was not serviced at the dealer. The vehicle was towed back to the first dealer, where it was diagnosed with needing the engine to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired but continued to experience the failure. The contact stated that the failure recurred seven times. The manufacturer had been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 102,000.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-12-01
- VIN: kmhec4a41ba
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2011 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V746000 (Engine) however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. 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 contact had stated that the engine was replaced; however, the vehicle was not able to be started. The approximate failure mileage was 176,000. Parts distribution disconnect.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-04-05
- VIN: KM8EC4A45BA
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2011 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid. The contact stated that while driving there was an abnormal knocking noise detected. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer where it was diagnosed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified however, no further assistance was provided. The contact stated the failure was like NHTSA Campaign number 20V746000 (Engine). The failure mileage was approximately 180,000.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-11-20
- Fire: 1
- VIN: KMHEC4A47BA
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 HYUNDAI SONATA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT ON SEVERAL OCCASIONS WHILE DRIVING AT UNDISCLOSED SPEEDS, THE CHECK ENGINE AND SERVICE ENGINE SOON WARNING LIGHTS ILLUMINATED AND REMAINED ILLUMINATED. THE CONTACT TOOK THE VEHICLE JIM ELLIS HYUNDAI ATLANTA (5785 PEACHTREE BLVD, ATLANTA, GA 30341) TO BE DIAGNOSED ON SEVERAL OCCASIONS. THE MECHANIC INSPECTED THE VEHICLE BUT COULD NOT DETERMINE THE CAUSE FOR THE FAILURE. THE MECHANIC ASSURED HER THAT THE VEHICLE WAS SAFE TO DRIVE. SEVERAL MONTHS LATER WHILE DRIVING 70 MPH, THE SERVICE SOON AND CHECK ENGINE WARNING LIGHTS ILLUMINATED AND THE VEHICLE OVERHEATED. THE VEHICLE STALLED AND WOULD NOT RESTART. THE VEHICLE WAS LEFT AT A NEARBY PARKING LOT OVERNIGHT. THE FOLLOWING DAY SHE RETURNED AND RESTARTED THE VEHICLE HOWEVER, WHILE DRIVING TO TAKE THE VEHICLE TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC, THE VEHICLE OVERHEATED, STALLED, WITH A HINT OF SMOKE COMING FROM THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT. THE VEHICLE WOULD NOT RESTART. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE IT REMAINED FOR TWO DAYS WHILE THE MECHANIC ATTEMPTED TO DIAGNOSE THE VEHICLE. SHE WAS INFORMED THAT THE ENGINE WAS BLOWN AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS RETURNED TO THE SAME DEALER AND SHE WAS INFORMED BY THE SERVICE MANAGER THAT SHE WAS RESPONSIBLE FOR THE FAILURE. THE CONTACT INFORMED THE SERVICE MANAGER THAT THE VEHICLE WAS INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 20V746000 (ENGINE). THE CONTACT HAD NOTIFIED THE DEALER FOR SEVERAL MONTHS OF THE ISSUES WITH THE WARNING LIGHTS BEING ILLUMINATED AND WAS INFORMED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS SAFE TO DRIVE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE SAME DEALER PERFORMED A MULTI-POINT CHECK ON THE VEHICLE PRIOR TO THE FAILURE, AND SHE WAS INFORMED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS SAFE TO BE DRIVEN. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED AND INFORMED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 128,000.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-03-17
- VIN: KMHEC4A45BA
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 HYUNDAI SONATA HYBRID. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 20V746000 (ENGINE) HOWEVER, THE PART TO DO THE RECALL REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO A LOCAL DEALER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAILABLE.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-03-15
- VIN: KMHEC4A41BA
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 HYUNDAI SONATA HYBRID. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION FOR NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 20V746000 (ENGINE) HOWEVER, THE PART TO DO THE RECALL REPAIR WAS NOT YET AVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT LEE HYUNDAI (LOCATED AT 1960 SKIBO RD, FAYETTEVILLE, NC 28314, (910) 684-4827) EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE CONTACT STATED THAT ON SEVERAL OCCASIONS THE VEHICLE FAILED TO START. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE ISSUE. THE PART WAS NOT AVAILABLE FOR THE REPAIR. VIN TOOL CONFIRM PARTS NOT AVAILABLE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNKNOWN
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-03-01
- VIN: KMHEC4A49BA
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 HYUNDAI SONATA HYBRID. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 20V746000 (ENGINE). THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 40 MPH, THE VEHICLE STALLED. THE ENGINE OVERHEAT MESSAGE WAS DISPLAYED ON THE INSTRUMENT PANEL. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE RESIDENCE. THE VEHICLE WAS THEN TOWED TO CONICELLI HYUNDAI (1208 RIDGE PIKE, CONSHOHOCKEN, PA 19428, (610) 624-2029) TO BE DIAGNOSED. THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THERE WAS THERMOSTAT BLOCKAGE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 82,000. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAILABLE.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-02-24
- VIN: KMHEC4A45BA
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 HYUNDAI SONATA HYBRID. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING 75 MPH, THERE WAS AN ABNORMAL CLUNKING SOUND DETECTED. THERE WERE NO WARNING LIGHTS ILLUMINATED. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 20V746000 (ENGINE) HOWEVER, THE PART TO DO THE RECALL REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AMARILLO HYUNDAI (1900 INTERSTATE 40 ACCESS RD #3029, AMARILLO, TX 79103, (806) 376-4911) TO BE DIAGNOSED. THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE ENGINE NEEDED TO BE REPLACED HOWEVER, THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE PART WAS NOT 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 FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 105,000. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAILABLE.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-11-06
- Fire: 1
- VIN: KMEHC4A45BA
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: I WAS DRIVING AROUND 55 MPH DOWN THE HIGHWAY AND NOTICED A STRANGE KNOCKING SOUND SO I TURNED AROUND TO GO HOME WHEN I NOTICED SMOKE BILLOWING OUT. I PULLED OVER POPPED THE HOOD AND FLAMES WENT UP LIKE CRAZY. I CALLED 911 AND VACATED IMMEDIATELY
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-01-11
- VIN: KMHEC4A49BA
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: ENGINE BEGAN MAKING A ENGINE KNOCKING NOISE THAT BECAME WORSE OVER THREE DAYS (ORIGINALLY MISTAKEN FOR BAD GAS BUT BECAME MUCH LOUDER THAN THAT WOULD BE). WHILE DRIVING ALONG A BUSY STATE ROAD (NC 98) AND CAR CHOKED TWICE WITH A LOUD THUMP AND I FEARED IT WOULD STALL. PULLED OVER, SHUT VEHICLE OFF. SMOKE WAS COMING FROM ENGINE COMPARTMENT. NO ACTUAL FLAMES DETECTED. TOWED TO DEALER. DEALER DESCRIBED HOLES IN THE ENGINE. CONSULTED HYUNDAI AND THEY WILL ONLY OFFER A SHORT BLOCK REPLACEMENT. LABOR COSTS ARE APPROXIMATELY $2500 WHICH I AM REQUIRED TO PAY. VEHICLE HAS APPROXIMATELY 141K MILES. TOW TRUCK OPERATOR ALSO TOLD ME TO RESEARCH THE RECALLS ON THIS VEHICLE BUT THIS VEHICLE WAS NOT LISTED BUT SHOULD BE. IT WOULD APPEAR THAT THE RECALL WAS INCOMPLETE AND SHOULD HAVE BEEN BROADER.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-10-24
- VIN: KMHEC4A40BA
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 HYUNDAI SONATA HYBRID. ON SEVERAL OCCASIONS, WHILE DRIVING 40-50 MPH, AN AUDIBLE CHIME WAS HEARD AND THE CHECK BRAKE WARNING INDICATOR ILLUMINATED. ONCE THE CHIME STOPPED, THE ACCELERATOR AND BRAKE PEDALS WERE RENDERED INOPERABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS TURNED OFF AND RESTARTED, BUT THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO MALCOLM CUNNINGHAM HYUNDAI (4355 STONE MOUNTAIN HWY, LILBURN, GA 30047, (770) 972-1222) WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE WHEEL SPEED SENSOR NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED; HOWEVER, THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 123,000.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-05-07
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: KMHEC4A41BA
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: I HAD A TERRIBLE ACCIDENT ON HIGHWAY. ANOTHER CAR HIT ME ON MY RIGHT SIDE. I WAS DRIVING WITH 60 MILE/ HOURS. I DEVIATE FROM THE ROAD AND THAT CAR HIT FEW MORE TIMES. MY CAR WAS DISTROYED. OK THIS ACCIDENT THE AIR BAGS DIDN'T DEPLOY. THE SEAT BELT PROTECTED. EVEN THAT I DIDN'T BROKE ANY BONE I HURT REALLY BED MY LEFT SHOULDER, LEFT HIP AND ALSO I HIT MY HEAD DURING THIS ACCIDENT.
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-06-24
- VIN: KMHEC4A49BA
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: YEAR: 2011 VIN: [XXX] FEW DAYS AGO CHANGE NEW PART AND INSTALLATION 6/28/2019 CHANGING THE BRAKE ABS ASSY IN MILLENNIUM HYUNDAI SERVICE CENTER BUT STILL HAVE PROBLEMS CHECK BRAKE WARNING AGAIN MY HYUNDAI SONATA HYBRID. WHEN DRIVING THE CHECK BRAKE SIGNAL COMES ON AND SHUTS DOWN THE CAR AND RENDER IT DRIVE LESS UNTIL I SHUT OFF THE ENGINE AND RESTART IT .WE STILL HAVE THE SAME PROBLEM CHECK BRAKE SIGNAL COME ON INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TT
SUSPENSION,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC) PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-06-14
- VIN: KMHEC4A49BA
- Components: SUSPENSION,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
- Summary: CHECK BRAKE WARNING DISPLAY 2011 HYUNDAI SONATA HYBRID. WHEN DRIVING THE CHECK BRAKE SIGNAL COMES ON AND SHUTS DOWN THE CAR AND RENDER IT DRIVELESS UNTIL I SHUT OFF THE ENGINE AND RESTART IT .WE CHANG NEW OWN 12 V BATTERY OEM PARTS . STILL HAVE THE PROBLEM CHECK BRAKE SIGNAL COME ON .
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-06-13
- VIN: KMHEC4A41BA
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 HYUNDAI SONATA HYBRID. WHILE DRIVING 75 MPH WITH THE CRUISE CONTROL ENGAGED, THE CONTACT HEARD AN ABNORMAL NOISE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE BEGAN TO DECELERATE AND FAILED TO ACCELERATE WHEN DEPRESSING THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL. THE CONTACT PARKED THE VEHICLE ONTO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD AND TURNED OFF THE ENGINE. THE CONTACT CHECKED UNDER THE HOOD AND NOTICED COOLANT LEAKING. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT ABLE TO BE DRIVEN AND WAS TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC. THE CONTACT CALLED ORR AUTO MALL RUSSELLVILLE (LOCATED AT 3115 E MAIN ST, RUSSELLVILLE, AR 72802, (877) 742-3331) AND NOTIFIED THEM OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 94,000.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-06-12
- Fire: 1
- VIN: KMHEC4A46BA
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: I WAS DRIVING O WORK AND SAT AT A TRAFFIC LIGHT WHEN SMOKE STARTED TO COME THROUGH VENTS AND OUT THE SIDE OF PASSENGER HOOD. I GOT OUT AND IT STARTED TO SMOKE EVEN MORE AND THEN WITH A FEW SECONDS IT BURST INTO FLAMES UNDER THE HOOD
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-05-02
- VIN: KMHEC4A4XBA
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
- Summary: MAY BE ENGINE OR ELECTRICAL OR SOFTWARE PROBLEM; LOST POWER ON INTERSTATE FROM 70 MPH TO 20 MPH THEN GOT OFF EXIT, SHUT DOWN AND WAITED A FEW MINUTES AND THEN STARTED IT UP AND NO PROBLEM AGAIN; HAS HAPPENED 3 TIMES IN LAST 4 MONTHS; TAKEN TO DEALER TWICE WITHOUT SUCCESS- NO CODES IN COMPUTER; NOW CAR IS SPUTTERING AND JUMPING WHEN GAS IS APPLIED AFTER SLOW DOWN/STOP. NOW GETTING FLASHING/BLINKS ON/OFF READY LIGHT ON DASH. SAW NHTSA ID NUMBER 10056327 AND SOUNDS LIKE MY ISSUE. DRIVE 40 MILES ONE WAY TO WORK ON INTERSTATE DAILY AND AM GETTING VERY CONCERNED ABOUT LOSING POWER. I HAVE REPORTED IT TO DEALER TWICE AND NOTHING DONE ABOUT IT AND REPORTED IT HYUNDIA CUSTOMER SERVICE CENTER WITHOUT A CALL BACK TO DATE.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,WHEELS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-02-14
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,WHEELS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: AFTER BEING JUMPED ONCE AND RUNNING PROPERLY THE CAR NO LONGER HAS ANY KIND OF POWER. THE REAR BATTERY IS WORKING FINE. MY MECHANIC HAD ALSO TOLD ME THAT THE WHEELS HAD A CERTAIN TYPE OF SPRING LIKE MECHANISM THAT WAS READY TO SHOOT OFF THE CAR AND THAT THE CAR NEEDS A VERY EXPENSIVE LARGE PIECE OF PLASTIC TO REGULATE AIRFLOW IF IT IS GOING TO PASS INSPECTION. THE VEHICLE HAS NOT BEEN IN ACCIDENTS AND NOTHING OUT OF THE ORDINARY HAS HAPPENED TO IT TO CAUSE THESE THINGS
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-06-11
- VIN: KMHEC4A40BA
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: THE IS A CLANKING NOISE BEHIND THE STEERING WHEEL. LOCAL MECHANIC DESCRIBES IT AS NOTORIOUS HYUNDAI PROBLEM. THE INFORMATION FOR RECALL 10V-426 WAS GIVEN TO ME. HYUNDAI DOES NOT INCLUDE THE HYBRID WITH THIS RECALL. THERE ARE SEVERAL OTHER SIMILAR COMPLAINTS, ON THIS WEBSITE, THAT DESCRIBE THE SAME PROBLEM. I HAVE MADE THIS COMPLAINT BEFORE BUT NOTICE IT IS NO LONGER ON THE WEBSITE. THIS NOISE HAPPENS WHEN TRAVELING OVER BUMPS, EVEN SLIGHT SUBTLE BUMPS, OR WHILE TURNING THE WHEEL. IT CAN HAPPEN WHILE STATIONARY OR MOVING. THIS HAS BEEN AN ONGOING PROBLEM BUT JUNE 2018 IS WHEN HYUNDAI ACKNOWLEDGED THE PROBLEM DURING ANOTHER SERVICE CAMPAIGN. I CURRENTLY HAVE 129K MILES.
2011 Hyundai Sonata hybrid recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 6 recalls for different components of the 2011 Hyundai Sonata hybrid.
- 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.
- Manufacturer: Hyundai Motor America
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2015-2016 Veloster, 2012 Santa Fe, 2011-2013 Sonata Hybrid, and 2016 Sonata Hybrid vehicles. The connecting rod bearings inside the engine may wear prematurely, which over time can result in engine damage.
- Consequence: A damaged engine can increase the risk of a fire or it can cause an engine stall, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the engine. If bearing damage is found, the engine will be replaced. Dealers will also install a software update containing a new Knock Sensor Detection System (KSDS). Repairs will be performed free of charge. The recall began March 31, 2021. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 198.
- Manufacturer: Hyundai Motor America
- Components: EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL
- Summary: Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2011-2012 Hyundai Elantra and Sonata Hybrid, 2012 Accent and Veloster vehicles. The 12V accessory socket outlet may have been over-tightened during installation, possibly disabling the thermal fuse and allowing the outlet to overheat with prolonged use, such as by using the Tire Mobility Kit air compressor to inflate a tire.
- Consequence: An overheated accessory outlet increases the risk of fire.
- Remedy: Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will replace the Tire Mobility Kit accessory outlet plug with a direct-to-battery connection wire harness kit, free of charge. The recall began September 28, 2020. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 193.
- Manufacturer: Hyundai Motor America
- Components: SEAT BELTS:PRETENSIONER
- Summary: Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2011-2013 Sonata and 2011-2012 Sonata Hybrid vehicles. On February 27, 2018, Hyundai Motor Company (Hyundai) notified NHTSA that they were recalling 154,753 model year 2011 Sonata vehicles. On April 18, 2018, Hyundai expanded the recall to include an additional 425,305 model year 2012-2013 Sonata and 2011-2012 Sonata Hybrid vehicles. In the event of a crash, the air bag control unit (ACU) may short circuit, preventing the frontal air bags, seat belt pretensioners, and side air bags from deploying.
- Consequence: If the frontal air bags, seat belt pretensioners, and side air bags are disabled, there is an increased risk of injury to the vehicle occupants in the event of a vehicle crash that necessitates deployment of these safety systems.
- Remedy: Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will install an external wire filter kit, free of charge. The recall began October 15, 2018. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 174.
- Manufacturer: Hyundai Motor America
- Components: SEAT BELTS:PRETENSIONER
- Summary: Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2011-2014 Sonata and 2011-2015 Sonata Hybrid vehicles previously repaired under recall campaign 17V-152. The seat belt linkages for both front seat belts may detach from the seat belt anchor pretensioners.
- Consequence: If the seat belt linkage detaches from the seat belt anchorage, it can not properly restrain the occupant in the event of a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
- Remedy: Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will again verify the connection between the seat belt linkage and the pretensioner and additionally install a warning label to prevent future seat belt linkage detachment, free of charge. The recall began November 6, 2017. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 169.
- Manufacturer: Hyundai Motor America
- Components: SEAT BELTS:FRONT:ANCHORAGE
- Summary: Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2011-2014 Sonata and 2011-2015 Sonata Hybrid vehicles. In the affected vehicles, the seat belt linkages for both front seat belts may detach from the seat belt anchor pretensioners.
- Consequence: In the event of a crash, if the seat belts detach from the anchor pretensioners, it can increase the risk of injury.
- Remedy: Hyundai will notify owners and dealers will inspect the connection between the seat belt linkages and the seat belt anchor pretensioners, repairing them as necessary, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin April 7, 2017. Owner's may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for the recall is 160.
Negative 2011 Hyundai Sonata hybrid car reviews
Positive 2011 Hyundai Sonata hybrid car reviews
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I'm thrilled to hear that you've had such a positive experience with your car! It sounds like you and your wife are really enjoying your 2012 Sonata Hybrid with the leather package. Safety is definitely a top priority, and it's great to know that this car has excellent crash safety ratings and handles well in dangerous situations. Plus, with its powerful engine, you can easily pass, merge into traffic, or accelerate quickly to avoid any potential hazards. And with an impressive overall MPG of 42+, it's both efficient and comfortable with its spacious interior. Thank you for sharing your experience with us!
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I really appreciate the car and the support from the dealer, although I must admit I'm a bit disappointed with the gas mileage. With 5600 miles on it, I've been getting around 27-28 mpg combined with a 60/40 mix of highway/city miles, even though I try to drive carefully. However, I'm hopeful that the recent computer reprogramming for the recall will fix this issue and bring it up to the advertised level. On a positive note, I received a letter from Hyundai today informing me that they are sending hybrid owners a $50 debit card for the recall inconvenience, which is a nice gesture.
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I'm really happy with my Hyundai Sonata hybrid. The car rides really well and the suspension does a great job of absorbing bumps while still keeping the car firmly on the road. The car has great acceleration and excellent dry and wet braking. I didn't notice any tendency for the car to pull to either side while driving or braking. The fuel efficiency has been amazing, getting over 40 mpg in the city and over 45 on the highway. The controls are arranged logically and are within easy reach, with most of the important controls being on or near the steering wheel. The standard version comes with most of the features you need (although I did add heated front seats). I particularly love the bluetooth feature, which enables full hands-free phone use.
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My wife and I absolutely love this car! It's super fun to drive. Although the computer was reporting an average of 36 MPG at best, which isn't bad, we were pleasantly surprised when after a month and a half, the check engine light came on and my wife took it in to the dealer. They said they fixed four recalls, but unfortunately, she didn't get a work order from the dealer with the details, which was a little strange. However, now the car is averaging 41.5 MPG, which is great news! Overall, we are extremely happy with our purchase. We just hope that we don't have any more recurring check engine light problems. That's precisely why I leased a hybrid. I believe that once the technology becomes the norm in the market, it will be even better!
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Although I don't drive it as much as I would like, my wife loves our car. The fuel mileage is exactly what we expected. We had to take it in for three repairs due to a recall, but everything went smoothly. In fact, Hyundai even gave us a $50 gift card for our troubles. We have received many compliments on the car and have even been offered trades with other motorists. The car runs great and has only 4000 miles on it so far. The only issue we have encountered is with the fuel gauge, which is not accurate and never reads a full tank since we owned it. However, overall it is a great car.
Additional sources
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Are you having problems with your 2011 Hyundai Sonata hybrid?
Everett Rohan 2024-11-02
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.
Arjun Block 2024-08-13
I purchased my car in May 2011 and have given it every opportunity to satisfy me. However, I have experienced some issues with it. Unfortunately, I will be taking it back to the dealer for the third time tomorrow since the 'check engine' light has come back on. In the past three months of ownership and 9,000 miles, I have encountered some problems such as gas tank issues, difficulty filling the tank, a strip of plastic coming off the roof, and a clunky front suspension noise on the driver's side. Additionally, the car surges, feels sluggish, and jerks back and forth while accelerating, although the dealer says it's normal. The power sunroof also stops midway and won't close all the way. I miss my G35, but I hope the dealer can help me resolve these issues soon.
Florian Brown 2024-06-15
I was disappointed with the Sonata Hybrid. Although the advertised fuel efficiency is 40 mph highway, I only get about 32. The internal computer estimates my fuel consumption at about 35, but there seems to be a discrepancy. When I asked the dealership about it, they told me that the computer is more accurate than the actual fuel consumption, which I found confusing. Additionally, the interior is quite constrictive and may not be comfortable for anyone over 6' for more than 30 minutes. The electric motor is also weak, only operating up until about 10 mph, and only kicking in after that during coasting. The accelerator can be unresponsive at times, taking up to two seconds to kick in.
Jabari Thompson 2024-06-04
I really like my Sonata, but to give an honest review, I have to say that it didn't quite live up to the advertised 37 MPG city. When I bought the car, I was promised this mileage, but living in an area that gets well over 100 degrees in the summer meant that I had to use the A/C quite a bit. As a result, right out of the gate with the A/C on and learning how to drive for economy, I was only getting about 25 MPG in the city. However, I did find that with no climate control (or only turning it on when at cruising speed) and careful driving, I could eventually get the 37 MPG. But any use of the A/C from a dead stop would drop the mileage to 32. Hyundai learned of the MPG issue and issued a software change that was intended to fix it. During a routine service, I had them update the software and Hyundai even sent me a $50 gift card for my trouble. I thought that was a nice gesture, especially since it didn't delay the normal service. After the software update, the best MPG I can get is about 32, but on the bright side, it wasn't affected by the climate control as badly. Recently, I took it in for another service and the repair order mentions another software adjustment. Now, I haven't been able to maintain an MPG above 29. It's too soon to determine all the impacts of the change, but I might ask if they can set it back to the original factory defaults. Additionally, I have experienced the problem mentioned in a couple of the below posts with the lurching. When it was new, if the gas engine clicked on at a stop, the car would lurch in a way that on a couple of occasions, I looked into my rearview to see if I was rear-ended. Also, once when accelerating to pass a vehicle on the freeway, when I pressed the accelerator, the car actually momentarily slowed rather than increasing speed immediately.I had an experience where the car shifted from EV mode to gas engine when I pressed the accelerator, and the transition was not smooth. This could potentially be dangerous, as noted in other posts. However, this only happened once and I'm not sure if one of the software changes addressed it. Despite this issue, I still like my Sonata. It's comfortable, has a reasonably smooth ride, and I knew when I bought it that the 2011 Hybrid was the first model year and would be working out some issues. I'm sure the 2013 and beyond models have addressed many of these issues and are more refined. With the differences in software that I've experienced, I can see why reviews are all over the map. If someone were looking for a Sonata, I would suggest they look at the regular gas model first. The 2011 Hybrid is more of a novelty than a benefit, and Hyundai is making up for the mileage discrepancy with gas cards.
Kristian Simonis 2024-05-13
The Sonata Hybrid may not be the best choice if you are looking for a vehicle with great gas mileage. While it can achieve the advertised highway mileage, the city mileage performance can be erratic and may not meet your expectations. If you experience any issues, the dealership can run a diagnostic check to identify any error codes. However, if no error codes are found, they may inform you that the car is performing as designed, even if the mpg is lower than expected. If you have any concerns, you can contact Hyundai Motors America customer service, but please note that they may refer you back to the dealership. It's important to keep in mind that there may be several factors that can affect your car's fuel efficiency, including driving habits. We hope this information helps you make an informed decision.