2018 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Sonata, which was introduced in 1985, was a facelifted version of the Hyundai Stellar with an engine upgrade, and was withdrawn from the market in two years due to poor customer reaction.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 2018 Hyundai Sonata hybrid problems
Based on the information from the sources provided, here are some common problems reported by owners of the 2018 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid:
- Electrical Problems: Complaints include issues with the alternator, starter, hybrid battery replacement, and related systems. Some owners have reported failures with the regular battery, battery cables, engine harness, coil, ignition switch, electronic ignition, spark plugs, and wires. These electrical malfunctions can cause starting problems, affect the vehicle's performance, and lead to unexpected breakdowns.
- Paint and Trim Concerns: Some owners have faced problems with paint peeling off the vehicle. While this may not affect the car's functionality, it can impact its appearance and potentially lead to corrosion if not addressed promptly.
- Starter Malfunctions: Instances of the keyless starter not cold starting the vehicle have been reported. This issue can be frustrating for owners, especially in cold weather conditions, and may require repairs or replacements to resolve the problem.
- Recall Issues: Owners have expressed dissatisfaction with dealers refusing to honor recalls, even when the vehicle was within the warranty period. This lack of support from dealerships can lead to unresolved safety concerns and maintenance issues, impacting the overall ownership experience.
These reported problems highlight various areas of concern for owners of the 2018 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid, ranging from engine reliability to electrical and paint issues. Addressing these issues promptly and through proper channels is crucial to maintaining the safety, performance, and value of the vehicle.
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.
Is a 2018 Hyundai Sonata good?
Edmunds' Expert Rating
The 2018 Hyundai Sonata looks like an all-new car thanks to significant updates it receives this year. The Sonata is a well-rounded midsize sedan that's generous on space and fortified with tech and features. Add in competitive pricing, and its value proposition is very hard to ignore.
How long can a Hyundai Sonata hybrid last?
According to getjerry.com, the Hyundai Sonata will last 200,000-250,000 miles with proper maintenance. If you stay on top of repairs, the Sonata could make it up to 300,000 miles.
Is there a recall on 2018 Hyundai Sonata engines?
Summary: Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2017-2018 Sonata, 2016-2018 Sonata Hybrid, 2018-2020 Accent, and 2016-2017 Azera vehicles.
2018 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
- Electrical system problems
- Air bags problems
- Exterior lighting problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2018 Hyundai Sonata hybrid vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
2018 Hyundai Sonata hybrid complaints
The NHTSA has received 4 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2018 Hyundai Sonata hybrid.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-02-01
- VIN: KMHE34L37JA
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2018 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, there were abnormal sounds coming from the vehicle. The malfunction lamp indicator warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer and diagnosed with engine failure. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced and that there was a Service Campaign Number: 966 (Engine Monitoring Logic) associated with the VIN that was unrepaired. The vehicle was not repaired and remained at the dealer. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and requested the vehicle's service records. The failure mileage was approximately 75,000.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-10-06
- VIN: KMHE24L31JA
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2018 HYUNDAI SONATA HYBRID. WHILE DRIVING VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE MESSAGE "HYBRID SYSTEM FAILURE" SUDDENLY DISPLAYED AND THE VEHICLE LOST POWER AND STALLED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO CAPITAL HYUNDAI (2820 EASTERN BLVD, MONTGOMERY, AL) TO BE DIAGNOSED, BUT NO FAILURE WAS FOUND. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. AFTER RETRIEVING THE VEHICLE FROM THE DEALER, THE FAILURE CONTINUED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE AND PROVIDED CASE NUMBER: 16248749. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 19,000. *BF THE CONSUMER STATED THAT THE FIRST FAILURE OCCURED ON OCTOBER 31, 2019 AND THE SECOND OCCURRED ON OCTOBER 7TH, 2020. BOTH TIMES, THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED, HOWEVER THE PROBLEM CONTINUES. *AS
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-04-19
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: MY 2018 HYUNDAI SONATA HYBRID LIMITED WAS INVOLVED IN A MVA ON 4:19/19. IT WAS A FRONT RIGHT IMPACT THAT INCLUDED THE PASSENGER SIDE, RIGHT FRONT TIRE AND RIM AND THE PASSENGER DOOR. IT WAS A HARD IMPACT. NONE OF THE AIRBAGS DEPLOYED. I WAS DRIVING STRAIGHT AT ABOUT 45 MILES PER HOUR ON AN 8 LANE DIVIDED CITY HIGHWAY. THE OTHER VEHICLE CAME OUT OF A SHOPPING CENTER TO THE RIGHT, CAME OVER 2 LANES THEN HIT ME AS I WAS DRIVING IN THE 3. THE OTHER DRIVER WAS GIVEN A TICKET FOR AN IMPROPER LANE CHANGE, CAME INTO MY LANE AND HIT MY VEHICLE.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-08-23
- VIN: KMHE34L38JA
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: I JUST BOUGHT A HYUNDAI SONATA LIMITED AND DROVE IT HOME. ON LOW BEAM THE HEADLIGHTS PROJECT 2 BLACK NOTCHES OR DARK AREAS THAT DO NOT ILLUMINATE THE ROAD UNDER THEM. THIS IS ANNOYING AND DANGEROUS BECAUSE THE HEADLIGHTS DO NOT EVENLY ILLUMINATE THE ROAD SAFELY SO I CAN SEE WELL. HAD I KNOWN ABOUT THIS DEFECT I WOULD NOT HAVE PURCHASED THE CAR. THIS IS NOW WIDELY REPORTED AND I AM GOING TO CONTACT CONSUMER REPORTS ABOUT THIS. DOES HYUNDAI HAVE A FIX FOR THIS OR AT LEAST AN INTELLIGENT EXPLANATION? THE DARK LINE AND NOTCHES, BASICALLY BLOCK OUT VISION, WHEN TURNING CORNERS AND UP AND DOWN HILLS, A SAFETY ISSUE. JUST GET USED TO A DARK LINE BLOCKING VISION HALF WAY DOWN THE WINDSHIELD, AND TWO DARK NOTCHES IN THE VIEW IN FRONT OF THE CAR??
2018 Hyundai Sonata hybrid recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 2018 Hyundai Sonata hybrid.
- Manufacturer: Hyundai Motor America
- Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:TRUNK LID:LATCH
- Summary: Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2017-2018 Sonata, 2016-2018 Sonata Hybrid, 2018-2020 Accent, and 2016-2017 Azera vehicles. The trunk latch may become damaged, preventing the opening of the trunk from the inside. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 401, "Internal Trunk Release."
- Consequence: A person inside the trunk compartment may become trapped, increasing their risk of injury.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the trunk latch base, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 4, 2021. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 208.
Negative 2018 Hyundai Sonata hybrid car reviews
Positive 2018 Hyundai Sonata hybrid car reviews
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In May 2019, I came home off the road to purchase a car and ended up buying a 2017 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid from Town East Ford. Unfortunately, I later found out that it was previously a Hertz rental car. Despite being promised that the 10,000 plan would cover anything bumper to bumper, I have been paying out of pocket for towing and repairs. Even after submitting receipts, I have not received any reimbursements. I had to spend $150 on an Uber trip to my attorney because my car broke down and I couldn't find anyone to take me. I am disappointed with my experience and would not recommend buying a Hyundai Sonata Hybrid. I have already had the motor rebuilt and it is now August 2021, but the oil is still greasy after being replaced. In my opinion, the newer models have more security features that limit your ability to open the door and look out while backing up. Overall, I would not buy another Hyundai Sonata again.
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Purchased new with 46,527 miles, mostly city driving. My lifetime gas mileage is 108 mpg. I even use gas for engine heat in Illinois, but in warm weather, I can go months without using any gas. This car has been everything I expected it to be, although I did have to replace the battery and tires (the original ones were horrible).
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You'll be happy to know that I haven't spent a single dollar on repairs and I can go up to 600 miles on a single tank!
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I really love the gas mileage I get, especially with the price of gasoline. The way it rides and looks is great, and it has a sporty look compared to, let's say, a Prius. I've traveled a lot for work, but now that I'm retired, I'll be driving it more often instead of letting it sit in a parking lot. With under 21,000 miles, it's still in great condition!
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Hey there! I hope you're doing well. I wanted to share some feedback on the car - I've noticed that the heater doesn't seem to be as strong as I'd like, especially with the colder mornings we've been having here in Southern California. While the warmed seat is a nice touch, I've found that the engine doesn't seem to put out as much heat as I'd like. I wonder if it has to do with the engine temperature not reaching higher levels. That being said, I really do like the car! I've only put <600 miles on it so far, but it's been great otherwise.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2018 Hyundai Sonata hybrid problems:
Long term reliability of 2018 Sonata? : r/Hyundai
May 14, 2023 ... Basically, just trying to gauge if there's known issues with the model, or if the car should hold up as long as it's maintained. I'm outside ...
Successful Lemon Law Repurchase - 2018 Hyundai Sonata with ...
Several drivers, including our client, have experienced ticking noises, stalling, engine misfire, and complete engine failure. It does not seem that Hyundai has ...
Key FOB Problems - 2018 Sonata Hybrid | Hyundai Forums
Jun 12, 2023 ... The Key FOBs for my 2018 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid SE have always been a little wonky. Since I bought the car, I would have to replace the ...
2018 Sonata Hybrid Electronic Water Pump issues - Maintenance ...
Jun 12, 2020 ... Maybe my original post was unclear. My main question is if the electric pump problems on the Sonata are a common issue, or where my neighbors ...
Other years of Hyundai Sonata hybrid
Are you having problems with your 2018 Hyundai Sonata hybrid?
Domingo Fahey 2024-03-12
We're glad to share that we've had great fuel efficiency with both our Sonata Hybrid (2011 & 2017). However, we've had some trouble with the small inverter radiator for the hybrid system in the 2017 model. Unfortunately, we've had to replace it twice now and the dealership has informed us that punctures have occurred in the radiator due to rocks/pebbles on the road. The first replacement happened just 5 months after we purchased the car and it wasn't covered by warranty. Interestingly, we never had these issues with the 2011 Sonata. We believe this may be a design flaw, but the dealership has informed us that the manufacturer will not warranty the replacement.
Jameson Kessler 2024-01-10
I purchased a Hyundai Sonata hybrid brand new in 2017 and have owned it for 5.5 years, putting 115,000 miles on it. While I have owned several new cars, unfortunately, this one has been the worst experience for me. Despite spending an extra $10,000 for the great gas mileage that a hybrid should provide, I have been disappointed with the car's performance. During the first two years, I was able to get between 45 and 50 mpg, but now I am lucky if I get 30. I have had to deal with several issues, such as warning lights going off while driving, the car not starting when I stop to get gas, and the trunk not opening. All of these problems started after the first year. Whenever I contact Hyundai, they always ask me to bring the car in, but they are unable to identify the issue. However, there was a recall on the part. Unfortunately, I have lost faith in Hyundai and will not be purchasing another car from them again.