2018 Hyundai Sonata Problems & Owner Complaints

Engine 206 3 crash 8 fire 2 injury

“I was the owner of a 2018 Sonata until I was t-boned and the car was totaled. I started to make a left turn into a school parking lot when the engine kind of stalled or more like stuttered and did not go forward as usual. The oncoming car then struck me before I was completely in the driveway. My vehicle was totaled as was the other one. Fortunately no one was on the passenger's side where the other car hit me. However the seat belt did not engage which resulted in me slamming very hard into the steering column. This resulted in bruised on my right side which cleared up in several weeks, but…”
NHTSA complaint #11588897, 2023 · crash · 1 injury(ies)

“I WAS DRIVING MY CAR AT ABOUT 45MPH ON MY WAY TO WORK ON A HIGHWAY ROAD AND OUT OF NO WHERE IT JERKED AND THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT STARTED FLASHING. CAR WOULD NOT ACCELERATE ABOVE 2,000 RPMS. WHEN THE CAR JERKED, IT WAS SO SUDDEN IT INJURED MY LOWER BACK. MY BACK HAS BEEN VERY SORE SINCE THIS INCIDENT. I THEN TOOK TO DEALER AND THEY SAID IT WAS A KNOWN ISSUE AND HYUNDAI HAD NOT RECALLED MY SPECIFIC CAR. DEALER WAS ABLE TO REPLICATE THE ISSUE. THE CLEARED THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT AND SENT ME ON MY WAY. ONE MILE DOWN THE ROAD EXACT SAME THING HAPPENED. CAR IS CURRENTLY AT THEIR SHOP WITH NO ETA OF R…”
NHTSA complaint #11311761, 2020 · 1 injury(ies)

“Unknown what system failed. The vehicle is at an impound lot and can be inspected on request. Police and fire department were on the scene. Police did provide a report # , and fire department provided a fire rescue case number. Safety of driver was put at risk due to the fire and potential for burning or even death. Other drivers could have been at risk if traffic had not allowed for quick movement to side of the road. No warning lamps had been on prior to the drive and none prior to fire. First indication was a burning smell while driving. As pulling over, another driver honked to alert to fi…”
NHTSA complaint #11714245, 2026 · fire

Electrical System 60 3 crash 4 fire 2 injury

“Vehicle 1 operating normally in traffic on [XXX] in Westfield MA. Operator 1 notices alert on dashboard. As Operator 1 looks down briefly and returns eyes immediately to the road, she sees Vehicle 2 braking to slow or stop. Operator 1 depresses brakes, but vehicle does not slow as it usually does, nor does Automatic Emergency Braking engage as it always has in the past. Front of Vehicle 1 makes contact with rear of Vehicle 2. Dashcam footage appears like brakes did not activate at all, either manually or automatically. Vehicle 1 airbags deploy. Westfield Police respond, as well as West…”
NHTSA complaint #11571357, 2024 · crash · 1 injury(ies)

“I WAS DRIVING MY CAR AT ABOUT 45MPH ON MY WAY TO WORK ON A HIGHWAY ROAD AND OUT OF NO WHERE IT JERKED AND THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT STARTED FLASHING. CAR WOULD NOT ACCELERATE ABOVE 2,000 RPMS. WHEN THE CAR JERKED, IT WAS SO SUDDEN IT INJURED MY LOWER BACK. MY BACK HAS BEEN VERY SORE SINCE THIS INCIDENT. I THEN TOOK TO DEALER AND THEY SAID IT WAS A KNOWN ISSUE AND HYUNDAI HAD NOT RECALLED MY SPECIFIC CAR. DEALER WAS ABLE TO REPLICATE THE ISSUE. THE CLEARED THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT AND SENT ME ON MY WAY. ONE MILE DOWN THE ROAD EXACT SAME THING HAPPENED. CAR IS CURRENTLY AT THEIR SHOP WITH NO ETA OF R…”
NHTSA complaint #11311761, 2020 · 1 injury(ies)

“Unknown what system failed. The vehicle is at an impound lot and can be inspected on request. Police and fire department were on the scene. Police did provide a report # , and fire department provided a fire rescue case number. Safety of driver was put at risk due to the fire and potential for burning or even death. Other drivers could have been at risk if traffic had not allowed for quick movement to side of the road. No warning lamps had been on prior to the drive and none prior to fire. First indication was a burning smell while driving. As pulling over, another driver honked to alert to fi…”
NHTSA complaint #11714245, 2026 · fire

Unknown Or Other 58 1 crash 2 fire

“UNKNOWN. I noticed that there was a check engine light on and I took it to autozone to have it checked out, they told me that it was coming back with the code of an o2 sensor. I thought nothing of it until it started not wanting to start right. On July 1, 2023 I took my car in to the dealership for an oil change and they never said anything about why my car was doing a delayed start. It would eventually start but it took at least a minute. I bought a new battery from walmart to put in my car so that it would not do the delayed start, but it kept doing it anyway. Finally decided to take it to a…”
NHTSA complaint #11541035, 2023 · fire

“DRIVER STATES VEHICLE DECELERATED WHILE DRIVING, PULLED OFF THE INTERSTATE AND OVER TO SIDE OF THE ROAD VEHICLE CAUGHT FIRE IN ENGINE COMPARTMENT.”
NHTSA complaint #11309184, 2020 · fire

“1. Accelerator malfunctioned as I removed my foot to hit the brakes. The speed increased. When attempted to hit brakes, would not brake. The brake hardened up and car went through bank glass door and window. 2. It malfunctioned. 3. Vehicle is in the body shop. Will take to dealer when done 4. Police and insurance 5. No warnings”
NHTSA complaint #11429927, 2021 · crash

Power Train 39 2 crash 1 fire 1 injury

“I WAS DRIVING MY CAR AT ABOUT 45MPH ON MY WAY TO WORK ON A HIGHWAY ROAD AND OUT OF NO WHERE IT JERKED AND THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT STARTED FLASHING. CAR WOULD NOT ACCELERATE ABOVE 2,000 RPMS. WHEN THE CAR JERKED, IT WAS SO SUDDEN IT INJURED MY LOWER BACK. MY BACK HAS BEEN VERY SORE SINCE THIS INCIDENT. I THEN TOOK TO DEALER AND THEY SAID IT WAS A KNOWN ISSUE AND HYUNDAI HAD NOT RECALLED MY SPECIFIC CAR. DEALER WAS ABLE TO REPLICATE THE ISSUE. THE CLEARED THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT AND SENT ME ON MY WAY. ONE MILE DOWN THE ROAD EXACT SAME THING HAPPENED. CAR IS CURRENTLY AT THEIR SHOP WITH NO ETA OF R…”
NHTSA complaint #11311761, 2020 · 1 injury(ies)

“Unknown what system failed. The vehicle is at an impound lot and can be inspected on request. Police and fire department were on the scene. Police did provide a report # , and fire department provided a fire rescue case number. Safety of driver was put at risk due to the fire and potential for burning or even death. Other drivers could have been at risk if traffic had not allowed for quick movement to side of the road. No warning lamps had been on prior to the drive and none prior to fire. First indication was a burning smell while driving. As pulling over, another driver honked to alert to fi…”
NHTSA complaint #11714245, 2026 · fire

“The vehicle had safety and mechanical problems shortly after purchase, even with low mileage. The issues included warning lights, abnormal noises, repeated mechanical failures, and poor performance that affected the safe operation of the vehicle. These problems started early and continued over time despite repairs and maintenance. Before the incident, the vehicle showed signs of malfunction, including instability while driving and loss of normal performance. These symptoms created an unsafe driving condition and increased the risk of a crash. I believe the vehicle had defects from the beginn…”
NHTSA complaint #11724392, 2023 · crash

Fuel/Propulsion System 30 1 fire

“The car was sitting in the parking lot and randomly black smoke started coming from it and then it turned into fire within in minutes. No one was in the vehicle and 911 was contacted.”
NHTSA complaint #11573805, 2024 · fire

“Fuel line leak, car is parked, fire hazard, a mechanic has been there to inspect”
NHTSA complaint #11749020, 2026

“Engine blown out malfunction took two dealer Hyundai Folsom Lake stated rings are bad sludge buildup in engine and stayed at Hyundai motor America denied engine replacement due to knowledge under Theta two engine extended warranty settlement of 150,000 MI 15 years I'm still within warranty but are still being denied had numerous of issues with vehicle oil consumption knock knock sensor replace and other maintenance done since purchase vehicle brand new in 2018”
NHTSA complaint #11737468, 2026

Exterior Lighting 22

“THE HEADLIGHT LOW BEAMS ARE DANGEROUS AND NEED TO BE RECALLED ASAP? After his death, I acquired this vehicle from my father who had stopped driving at night thinking he had developed a vision issue. The first time I drove it at night I discovered the low beams are defective, and that was the problem, not my dear old Dad’s vision. The light emitted does not extend far enough in front of the vehicle to light a large enough safe distance. There are also large black areas at the far edge of each light that float from side to side with the beam while making turns. This also causes the areas on one…”
NHTSA complaint #11693951, 2025

“Back up lights. The lights constantly burn out causing the harness light holder to burn out. The lights will not come on even after replacing fuse and lights There are not back lights to warn patrons on the road for turning or stopping Yes it was taken to a dealership No it has not been inspected my either , but there is a recall on models of the same car but years 2011-2014 No there were no warnings , someone told me they were out”
NHTSA complaint #11683921, 2025

“Check engine light keeps coming on got it looked at , certain parts replaced & it’s still on something to do with the air filter”
NHTSA complaint #11677632, 2025

Vehicle Speed Control 19 6 crash 3 injury

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2018 HYUNDAI SONATA. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 35 MPH, THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL BECAME STUCK. THE CONTACT COULD NOT STOP THE VEHICLE DUE TO THE STIFFNESS OF THE BRAKE PEDAL. AS A RESULT, THE CONTACT CRASHED INTO THE FRONT PASSENGER DOOR OF ANOTHER ONCOMING VEHICLE. ALL OF THE AIR BAGS DEPLOYED. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. BOTH DRIVERS SUSTAINED INJURIES THAT REQUIRED MEDICAL ATTENTION. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE IT WAS DEEMED A TOTAL LOSS. A DEALER AND THE MANUFACTURER WERE NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 10…”
NHTSA complaint #11115413, 2018 · crash · 2 injury(ies)

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2018 HYUNDAI SONATA. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 5 MPH, THE VEHICLE INDEPENDENTLY ACCELERATED. THE CONTACT DEPRESSED THE BRAKE PEDAL, BUT IT FAILED TO SLOW DOWN OR STOP THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE CRASHED INTO A PALM TREE. AN INCIDENT REPORT WAS FILED, BUT NOT A POLICE REPORT DUE TO THE FACT THAT THERE WAS NO IMMEDIATE INJURY. THE CONTACT SUFFERED A SORE NECK AND A POSSIBLE WHIPLASH. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT FACILITY. KEARNEY MESA HYUNDAI (4797 CONVOY ST, SAN DIEGO, CA 92111, (858) 278-7100) WAS CONTACTED AND A VOICE MESSAGE WAS LEFT. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NO…”
NHTSA complaint #11173563, 2019 · crash · 1 injury(ies)

“The contact owns a 2018 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated that while her daughter was reversing out of a parking space, the vehicle experienced unintended acceleration. The vehicle drove forward and crashed into a brick post. The contact's daughter did not sustain any injury but later received medical attention. There were no airbags deployed. A police report was filed. The vehicle was towed to a tow yard where the dealer later picked up the vehicle and took it to their location. The contact was unaware of what was repaired since the dealer did not provide a work order and she had to sign a p…”
NHTSA complaint #11461329, 2022 · crash

Service Brakes 17 6 crash 1 fire 16 injury

“The contact owned a 2018 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated that while driving at 35 MPH, a pedestrian alerted him that the vehicle was on fire.  The contact noticed that the rear portion and driver side of the vehicle was on fire.  While traveling around a curve the brakes became inoperable the contact jumped out of the vehicle. he contact sustained injuries to his left shoulder and leg and medical attention was provided.  There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle continued to roll as it was burning.  The vehicle crashed into a dirt mound at the end of a hill. The fire department…”
NHTSA complaint #11600973, 2024 · crash · fire · 11 injury(ies)

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2018 HYUNDAI SONATA. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 35 MPH, THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL BECAME STUCK. THE CONTACT COULD NOT STOP THE VEHICLE DUE TO THE STIFFNESS OF THE BRAKE PEDAL. AS A RESULT, THE CONTACT CRASHED INTO THE FRONT PASSENGER DOOR OF ANOTHER ONCOMING VEHICLE. ALL OF THE AIR BAGS DEPLOYED. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. BOTH DRIVERS SUSTAINED INJURIES THAT REQUIRED MEDICAL ATTENTION. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE IT WAS DEEMED A TOTAL LOSS. A DEALER AND THE MANUFACTURER WERE NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 10…”
NHTSA complaint #11115413, 2018 · crash · 2 injury(ies)

“Vehicle 1 operating normally in traffic on [XXX] in Westfield MA. Operator 1 notices alert on dashboard. As Operator 1 looks down briefly and returns eyes immediately to the road, she sees Vehicle 2 braking to slow or stop. Operator 1 depresses brakes, but vehicle does not slow as it usually does, nor does Automatic Emergency Braking engage as it always has in the past. Front of Vehicle 1 makes contact with rear of Vehicle 2. Dashcam footage appears like brakes did not activate at all, either manually or automatically. Vehicle 1 airbags deploy. Westfield Police respond, as well as West…”
NHTSA complaint #11571357, 2024 · crash · 1 injury(ies)

Structure 15

“The trunk latch on the Hyundai Sonata malfunctioned, and our safety was put at risk when the trunk malfunctioned while driving on the freeway, obstructing the back view. After several attempts to try to close the trunk and after doing some research, I learned it had a vehicle recall, 21V619000. An appointment was made at Ontario Hyundai for the latch to be repaired due to the recall. After taking the vehicle in, the dealer stated that an attempt to repair the latch had been attempted and refused to do the repair and provided an invoice of $616.00 for repair. Since the latch malfunctioned, no a…”
NHTSA complaint #11734172, 2026

“The engine burns oil, I have to get spark plugs every two months, and put oil in it almost every week. The check engine light is now flashing and is throwing more sensors. The paint on this car is also all peeling off.”
NHTSA complaint #11649138, 2025

“I am writing to file a formal complaint against Hyundai Motor America regarding a significant defect in the paint quality of my 2018 Hyundai vehicle and the company's lack of response to my attempts to resolve this issue.I am the owner of a 2018 Hyundai [Model], which I purchased from priority Hyundai in dec 2017. Over the past few months, the paint on my white Hyundai has started to peel significantly, despite regular maintenance and care. This issue has not only affected the aesthetic appeal of my vehicle but also its potential resale value. I first reported this issue to have subsequently m…”
NHTSA complaint #11607232, 2024

Engine And Engine Cooling 14

“The contact owns a 2018 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated that while driving approximately 60 MPH, the vehicle started to vibrate roughly. The contact felt the vibration in the steering wheel. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The contact slowed down and pulled off the roadway. The contact turned off and restarted the vehicle and was able to shift to drive(D); however, the vehicle was hesitating and failed to accelerate as needed. The contact drove the vehicle to an independent mechanic at speeds no greater than 40 MPH. The mechanic scanned the vehicle and retrieved codes for a…”
NHTSA complaint #11709976, 2025

“The contact owns a 2018 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the low oil warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, but was not diagnosed or repaired. The dealer advised the contact to have an oil change performed and then return the vehicle after 1,000 miles of driving. The contact stated that after returning the vehicle to the dealer, the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 99,000.”
NHTSA complaint #11703258, 2025

“The contact owns a 2018 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated engine oil constantly needed to be added between 1,200 and 1,800 miles. An independent mechanic was contacted. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, and the contact was informed that there were no leaks found, and that the engine was in good operational order. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 118,000.”
NHTSA complaint #11689150, 2025

Steering 9

“During multiple dealership visits in 2025, my 2018 Hyundai Sonata Limited 2.0T was repeatedly returned in unsafe condition. Southern Hyundai installed both front CV axles and torqued them incorrectly. The right axle was later confirmed under-torqued by about 50 ft-lbs, and the left axle was later found over-torqued 40ft-lbs Priority Hyundai later identified and corrected the under-torqued right axle, which briefly improved symptoms but did not resolve the underlying issue. When I returned for a follow-up on October 29, 2025, for a documentation-only appointment due to an active corporate case…”
NHTSA complaint #11698025, 2025

“On 05/27/2025, my rear back-up camera started to malfunction. Last week my dash started to malfunction electronically. When I would start my vehicle, all of the lights would start to turn on and stay on on my dash. My speedometer would not move while I was driving, so I could not see how fast I was going. I believe this is a severe safety issue for myself as well as others. The tachometer would jump up and down and would not function correctly. My dash stated that I had low tire pressure, that I was having problems with my traction control, that my BSD system was not working, that my ABS was n…”
NHTSA complaint #11666015, 2025

“The engine stalls when driving, loses power, hard time to start. It uses an extensive amount of oil. Losing power/stalling can result in accident or fire in my engine. Yes check engine light came on said it was coils/plugs changed them 2xs already. Took it to a mechanic was told there’s a recall on engine it’s a valve that is not getting air through that can potentially case a Fire in my engine.”
NHTSA complaint #11656049, 2025

Latches/Locks/Linkages 8

“See attached document for complaint. Please let me know how quickly the service parts for these two recalls are physically located in your shop and how soon the required recalls will be performed. I have been getting periodic recall notices for years and have yet to obtain the satisfaction of an adequate local response from your service department. I can recall three instances when I was told the parts were ready, only to leam, upon arrival, they were not. The last incident was on May 27"', when I was told the parts were ready and I could have the recall performed on May 30'". Another huge di…”
NHTSA complaint #11669388, 2025

“The contact owns a 2018 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated the trunk failed to open while using the key fob and the controllers on the interior of the vehicle. The contact had taken the vehicle to the dealer where it was diagnosed that the trunk latch had failed, and the emergency cable associated with the trunk needed to be replaced. The vehicle had not been repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and a case was opened. The failure mileage was 44,176.”
NHTSA complaint #11604434, 2024

“The contact owns a 2018 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated that the key fob was accidently left inside the trunk but the trunk lid remained locked. The contact indicated that the feature preventing the key from becoming locked inside the trunk failed due to the trunks locking mechanism malfunctioning. The vehicle was previously serviced under the NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V619000 (Latches/Locks/Linkages) however, the failure occurred. The local dealer was notified of the failure but no assistance was offered. The manufacturer was not yet contacted. The failure mileage 70,000.”
NHTSA complaint #11487017, 2021

Seat Belts 8 2 crash 2 injury

“I was the owner of a 2018 Sonata until I was t-boned and the car was totaled. I started to make a left turn into a school parking lot when the engine kind of stalled or more like stuttered and did not go forward as usual. The oncoming car then struck me before I was completely in the driveway. My vehicle was totaled as was the other one. Fortunately no one was on the passenger's side where the other car hit me. However the seat belt did not engage which resulted in me slamming very hard into the steering column. This resulted in bruised on my right side which cleared up in several weeks, but…”
NHTSA complaint #11588897, 2023 · crash · 1 injury(ies)

“2018 HYUNDAI SONATA WAS IN MOTION, WITH A SPEED OF APPROXIMATELY 20 MILES PER HOUR, WHEN A VEHICLE IN FRONT OF THE HYUNDAI SONATA STOPPED SUDDENLY AND THE 2018 HYUNDAI SONATA REAR ENDED THE OTHER VEHICLE. THE 2018 HYUNDAI SONATA'S AIRBAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. DAYS PRIOR TO THE MOTOR VEHICLE ACCIDENT, THE THE OWNER DISCOVERED THE DRIVER'S SIDE SEATBELT WOULD NOT RETRACT TO CREATE TENSION AFTER INITIAL APPLICATION TO SECURE SEATBELT HOWEVER, TENSION OF THE SEATBELT WAS IDENTIFIED WITH APPLICATION OF THE BRAKES, WHILE LEANING FORWARD, AND WHILE 2018 HYUNDAI SONATA WAS IN MOTION. CONCERN IS THE FACT TH…”
NHTSA complaint #11405161, 2021 · crash · 1 injury(ies)

“The contact owns a 2018 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated that upon entering the vehicle, the contact became aware that the driver’s side seat belt failed to latch securely into the buckle. The seat belt warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who diagnosed a failure with the seat belt buckle. The vehicle was not repaired. 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 45,000.”
NHTSA complaint #11637409, 2025

Forward Collision Avoidance 7 1 crash 1 injury

“Vehicle 1 operating normally in traffic on [XXX] in Westfield MA. Operator 1 notices alert on dashboard. As Operator 1 looks down briefly and returns eyes immediately to the road, she sees Vehicle 2 braking to slow or stop. Operator 1 depresses brakes, but vehicle does not slow as it usually does, nor does Automatic Emergency Braking engage as it always has in the past. Front of Vehicle 1 makes contact with rear of Vehicle 2. Dashcam footage appears like brakes did not activate at all, either manually or automatically. Vehicle 1 airbags deploy. Westfield Police respond, as well as West…”
NHTSA complaint #11571357, 2024 · crash · 1 injury(ies)

“When starting car warning lights came on for ABS, AEB, Cruise Control. Cruise control is locked out and not working due to these warnings.”
NHTSA complaint #11673638, 2025

“About a year and half ago, a lot of my engine trouble lights turned on while driving. It was sleeting at that time when the lights turned on and they're still on today. I paid to have the Hyundai dealer to check it out soon after the trouble lights first turned on. They diagnosed the problem as a faulty HECU. I would have had them replace this, but they estimated it would cost about $3800 to fix. This HECU malfunction is causing the following issues: ABS does not work, traction control does not work, forward collision prevention does not work, brake auto hold does not work, cruise control…”
NHTSA complaint #11681116, 2023

Visibility/Wiper 5

“PASSENGER SIDE WINDSHIELD WIPER WORKS WHEN IT WANT TO WORK.”
NHTSA complaint #11414178, 2021

“I PURCHASED THE 2018 HYUNDAI SONATA 2.0T ON 8/27/18. AFTER WE WERE ABLE TO EXPERIENCE DIFFERENT DRIVING CONDITIONS AND SITUATIONS, MY HUSBAND AND I NOTICED THAT (1) AT NIGHT, WHILE DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY, THE WINDSHIELD APPEARED VERY DARK AS IF IT WAS HEAVILY TINTED,AND MAKING IT DIFFICULT TO SEE THE ROAD. (2) WHEN DRIVING ON HIGHWAY OR ROAD, WITH NORMAL BEAM HEADLIGHTS, WE NOTICED THAT THE LINE OF DEMARCATION FROM HEADLIGHT TO DARK ROAD WAS VERY CLOSE TO THE FRONT OF THE CAR. THE REASON GIVEN BY THE MAINTENANCE DEPT WAS THAT THIS WAS SO CARS IN FRONT WOULDN'T BE BLINDED BY THE HEADLIGHT.…”
NHTSA complaint #11208542, 2019

“WHILE DRIVING 30MPH APPROACHING A RED LIGHT, MY 2018 SONATA CUT OFF ONCE I CAME TO A COMPLETE STOP AT THE RED LIGHT. I WAS IN CITY LIMITS APPROACHING A HWY INTERSECTION. THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON AND THE CAR RESTARTED AFTER ONE ATTEMPT. ONCE THE VEHICLE RE STARTED IT WAS SLUGGISH,SPUTTERING AND WOULD NOT ACCELERATE OVER 20MPH... I MADE IT HOME SAFELY NONETHELESS. I LEFT THE CAR PARKED FOR APPROX 10 MINS AND IT RESTARTED EASILY. I THEN DROVE IT DIRECTLY TO THE LOCAL DEALER WHERE THE CAR WAS PURCHASED. I WAS TOLD THE CAR STOPPED BECAUSE THE ENGINE SYSTEM REQUIRED AN UPDATE. THE UPDATE WAS…”
NHTSA complaint #11203298, 2019

Air Bags 4 2 crash 1 death

“I am Detective [XXX] #XXX with Austin Police Department Vehicular Homicide Unit and I worked a fatal crash [XXX]. The damage to the vehicle two vehicle should not have caused a death. The airbag became detached from the steering wheel and impaled into the drivers chest. I do have pictures but they are crime scene pictures and pictures of the decedent so I am not attaching them but if someone contacts me I can arrange that. I do not know the speed but I am going to image the module next week. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)”
NHTSA complaint #11705558, 2025 · crash · 1 death(s)

“Hello im jesus ochoa on December 2 of 2022 i had a car accident i went underneath a simi truck and my air bags didnt deployed on my 2018 hyundia sonata and im worry of the new car i have from hyundai if the air bag didnt deployed on my 2018 hyundia”
NHTSA complaint #11499802, 2022 · crash

“The three airbags in the car (on the driver's weel, driver's knee, and the passenger's side) deployed while driving on a normal street at a speed of 50 miles/hour. This is an unexpected behavior of a car at a normal speed. I need help to fix this car and know what is the reason this happened.”
NHTSA complaint #11710253, 2026

Suspension 4

“During multiple dealership visits in 2025, my 2018 Hyundai Sonata Limited 2.0T was repeatedly returned in unsafe condition. Southern Hyundai installed both front CV axles and torqued them incorrectly. The right axle was later confirmed under-torqued by about 50 ft-lbs, and the left axle was later found over-torqued 40ft-lbs Priority Hyundai later identified and corrected the under-torqued right axle, which briefly improved symptoms but did not resolve the underlying issue. When I returned for a follow-up on October 29, 2025, for a documentation-only appointment due to an active corporate case…”
NHTSA complaint #11698025, 2025

“The contact owns a 2018 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle lost motive power. The check engine warning light was illuminated. Additionally, engine oil was leaking onto the ground while the vehicle was parked. The contact stated that the dealer had previously replaced the spark plugs, and cylinders #3 and #4 twice, and an independent mechanic had replaced the front driver's side CV axle. The vehicle was towed back to the dealer, who determined that the engine had internal defects. The contact was informed that the engine and front CV axles need…”
NHTSA complaint #11639130, 2024

“ABS module stopped working and the ABS module light is on. Car automatically brakes by its self sometimes or locks up at stop lights creating dangerous driving situations”
NHTSA complaint #11556945, 2023

Tires 4

“the Kumho 205/65 R16 treads are losing chucks of rubber on 3 tires with just under 17000 miles as of this date 7/24/23 and under 6 years old. ( their warranty states 60K or 6 yrs) Kumho will not warrant the tires in any way shape or form. Have tried to get some help from them since Jan of this year (2023) with no results. Also the service dept at the dealership tried to get me help but was not successful. Even after taking many pictures and information and sending them to Kumho. No help.”
NHTSA complaint #11534179, 2023

“The contact owns a 2018 Hyundai Sonata equipped with Hankook Tires, Tire Line: Kinergy ST, Tire Size: 205/65/R16, DOT Number: (N/A). The contact stated that three of the four tires had failed. While the vehicle was in for a Vehicle State Inspection, it was discovered that the rear passenger’s side tire was deformed and wobbly which cause the vehicle to fail the inspection. Additionally, while driving approximately 70 MPH, the vehicle started shaking violently. The contact pulled over to the side of the road and stopped the vehicle. Upon inspection, it was discovered that the rear driver’s side…”
NHTSA complaint #11485620, 2021

“DRIVING ON AN EXPRESSWAY AND TRAVELING APPROX 60MPH THE REAR DRIVERS SIDE TIRE BLEW OUT I DID NOT STRIKE A POT HOLE AND THE CORRECT TIRE PRESSURE AS PER THE DOOR PANEL WAS IN THE TIRE. I MANAGED TO GET THE CAR OFF THE HIGHWAY WITHOUT FURTHER INCIDENT.”
NHTSA complaint #11217026, 2019

Lane Departure 3

“BSD system stopped working one day along with the Rear Cross Traffic Alert.The button which operates system does not come and system does not work. Warning lamp lit on instrument panel and said" check B SD system" meaning the whole system doesn't work. Took to my local shop and they couldn't repair as they stated the system is a proprietary system the had no software. service bulletin #19-BE-009H was issued in 5-19 by Hyundai for this issue with car. So there is a know problem”
NHTSA complaint #11648673, 2024

“Warning lights keep coming on for ABS and Blind Spot Detection. Please help as I know this has been recalled in other 2018 Sonatas. So why is my VIN # not included in these recent recalls?? I FEAR for mine and my daughter's safety as she turned 16 in February 2023 and started driving this car in August 2023. PLEASE HELP!!”
NHTSA complaint #11556365, 2023

“when the car is cold it would not start. I checked what the problem can be online and it turns out that there are a lot of out cars with the same problem. The problem is starter. sever people after changing the starter there vehicle was fixed. Another problem is sometimes the blind spot warning system does not work. These problems are reported by people with the same car but not by dealers.”
NHTSA complaint #11442446, 2021

Electronic Stability Control (Esc) 2 1 fire

“THIS CAR HAS A MIND OF IT ON WHEN I TURN ON HEAT THE RADIO STATION GOES STATIC VERY BAD ENGINE LIGHT KEEP COMING ON GO TO DEALERSHIP THEY KEEP ON RESET INSTEAD OF FIXING IT YESTERDAY MY STARTER BURN OUT .JUST OUT THE BLUE WITH NO WARNING SIGN IT WAS GOING OUT”
NHTSA complaint #11301284, 2020 · fire

“SINCE THE YEAR 2017 WHEN USING A PORTABLE AUDIO DEVICE CONNECTED TO THE POWER OUTLET THE SYSTEM TURNS ON AND OFF.DRIVERS FOG LIGHT BEEN REPAIRED TWICE IN JULY 2018.LEFT FOG BULB BEEN REMOVED PREVIOUSLY INSTALLED FOUND BURNED GREASE WAS ADDED TO SOCKET GREASE WAS ALSO PUT ON SENSOR ON DRIVER DOOR BECAUSE RADIO SYSTEM WAS STAYING ON AFTER TURNING VEHICLE OFF,CLOSING DRIVER DOOR AND AFTER CLICKING THE ALARM TO LOCK DOOR RADIO WAS STILL PLAYING. DRIVER BRAKE LIGHT HAD TO BE REPLACED. SEPTEMBER 2018 REMOVED AND REPLACED THE FOG LAMP/DRL ASSEMBLY THE SOCKET FOR THE BULB MELTED,CAUSING THE PLASTIC TO…”
NHTSA complaint #11154848, 2018

Fuel System 2

“The contact owns a 2018 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated that while operating the vehicle, there was an abnormal fuel odor inside the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer and was diagnosed with an inoperable low-pressure fuel pump. The contact was informed that the low-pressure fuel pump needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The contact stated that the manufacturer had issued an extended warranty coverage for the failure. The failure mileage was 92,000.”
NHTSA complaint #11752670, 2026

“The contact owned a 2018 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle sputtered, jerked, and lost motive power. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was able to restart but made an abnormal ticking sound. The vehicle was taken to the dealer but was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 72,000.”
NHTSA complaint #11678701, 2025

Seats 2

“ABS module stopped working and the ABS module light is on. Car automatically brakes by its self sometimes or locks up at stop lights creating dangerous driving situations”
NHTSA complaint #11556945, 2023

“The drivers seat operation is going berserk. I can not get it to move at times and at other times it only partially operates. It also may do the opposite of what control direction I move it! I had to drive home today not being able to to the gas pedal well...very dangerous.”
NHTSA complaint #11554081, 2023

Back Over Prevention 1

“BSD system stopped working one day along with the Rear Cross Traffic Alert.The button which operates system does not come and system does not work. Warning lamp lit on instrument panel and said" check B SD system" meaning the whole system doesn't work. Took to my local shop and they couldn't repair as they stated the system is a proprietary system the had no software. service bulletin #19-BE-009H was issued in 5-19 by Hyundai for this issue with car. So there is a know problem”
NHTSA complaint #11648673, 2024

Firerelated 1 1 fire 1 injury

“The contact owned a 2018 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated that while driving, the vehicle caught fire without warning. No warning lights illuminated. The air bags did not deploy. The fire department was notified and was able to extinguish the fire. The origin of the fire was unknown. The contact sustained a burn to her inner left ankle. Medical attention was required. A police report was filed. The vehicle was towed to a tow yard. The dealer was notified of the failure, but no assistance was provided. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The vehicle was deemed totaled by the insurance.…”
NHTSA complaint #11489028, 2022 · fire · 1 injury(ies)

Visibility 1

“The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated that all the rear row seat belts did not buckle as intended and water would leak from the front passenger side air conditioner. The local dealer was contacted, but the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 125,000.”
NHTSA complaint #11620317, 2023