2011 Hyundai Sonata
Problems, recalls and owner-reported issues
Steering is the leading concern among 3,376 owner complaints filed for this model year. This is the highest complaint count among 26 Sonata model years with reports.
Of the 2011 reports, 116 involved a crash and 112 involved a fire. 85 people were injured and 3 people died.
What owners report most often
Recalls and investigations
EngineDec 28, 2018
Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2011-2014 Sonata and 2013-2014 Santa Fe Sport vehicles previously repaired under recall numbers 15V-568 and 17V-226. The high pressure fuel pipe that connects to the fuel pump outlet may have been damaged, misaligned, or improperly torqued during the engine replacement procedure, allowing fuel to leak from the pipe.
A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source can increase the risk of a fire.
Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and replace the fuel pipe, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began March 1, 2019. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's recall number for this recall is 180.
Campaign 18V934000 on NHTSA.gov
Seat belts, pretensionerFeb 27, 2018
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.
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.
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.
Campaign 18V137000 on NHTSA.gov
Seat belts, pretensionerOct 4, 2017
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.
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.
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.
Campaign 17V617000 on NHTSA.gov
Seat belts, front, anchorageMar 8, 2017
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.
In the event of a crash, if the seat belts detach from the anchor pretensioners, it can increase the risk of injury.
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.
Campaign 17V152000 on NHTSA.gov
Steering, electric power assist systemApr 5, 2016
Hyundai Motor Company (Hyundai) is recalling certain model year 2011 Sonata vehicles manufactured December 11, 2009, to October 31, 2010. In the affected vehicles, the Electronic Power Steering (EPS) circuit board may be damaged and result in a loss of power steering assist.
With a loss of power steering assist, extra steering effort will be required, especially at lower speeds, increasing the risk of a crash.
Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will replace the EPS control unit, free of charge. The recall began May 30, 2016. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9640. Hyundai's number for this recall is 143.
Campaign 16V190000 on NHTSA.gov
Exterior lighting, brake lights, switchNov 16, 2015
Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain model 2011-2012 Sonata vehicles. The brake pedal stopper pad can deteriorate allowing the brake light switch plunger to remain extended when the brake pedal is released.
If the brake light switch plunger does not retract as it should when the brake pedal is not being pressed, the brake lights may stay illuminated preventing accurate communication to rearward following vehicles that the vehicle is slowing or stopping. Additionally, if the brake switch plunger is not retracted, then the transmission can be shifted out of PARK without depressing the brake pedal. Either condition increases the risk of a crash.
Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will replace the brake pedal stopper pad with an improved part, free of charge. The recall began on January 6, 2016. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-671-3059. Hyundai's number for this recall is 136.
Campaign 15V759000 on NHTSA.gov
Suspension, front, springs, coil springsOct 7, 2015
Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain model year 2011 Elantra vehicles manufactured November 12, 2010, to March 31, 2011, and Sonata vehicles manufactured December 11, 2009, to February 28, 2010, originally sold in, or currently registered in, Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, West Virginia, Wisconsin and the District of Columbia. Road salt may corrode the front coil springs, possibly resulting in the coil springs fracturing.
If a front coil spring fractures, it may contact the tire, possibly puncturing it, increasing the risk of a crash.
Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front coil springs, free of charge. Interim notifications were mailed on November 17, 2015. The recall began on January 6, 2016. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-671-3059. Hyundai's number for this recall is 133. Note: Vehicles that were previously registered in salt belt states but are currently registered elsewhere are eligible to be inspected and repaired.
Campaign 15V629000 on NHTSA.gov
EngineSep 10, 2015
Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain model year 2011-2012 Sonata vehicles manufactured December 11, 2009, to April 12, 2012 at Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Alabama and equipped with either a 2.0 liter or 2.4 liter Gasoline Direct injection engine. In the affected vehicles, metallic debris may not have been fully removed during manufacturing of the engine crankshaft. If the debris was not completely removed, oil flow may be restricted through the connecting rod bearings, causing connecting rod damage. A worn connecting rod bearing will produce a metallic, cyclic knocking noise from the engine and possible engine failure.
Engine failure would result in a vehicle stall, increasing the risk of a crash.
Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the vehicles and replace the engine assembly, as necessary, free of charge. Additionally, Hyundai Motor America will increase the warranty for the engine sub-assembly (short block) to 10 years/120,000 miles for both original and subsequent owners of 2011 and 2012 Sonatas manufactured at Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Alabama equipped with 2.0 liter and 2.4 liter Gasoline Direct injection engines. Interim notifications were mailed to owners starting on October 8, 2015. A second notification will be mailed when parts are available. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-671-3059 or by visiting www.HyundaiUSA.com/Campaign132. Hyundai's number for this recall is 132.
Campaign 15V568000 on NHTSA.gov
Power train, automatic transmissionJul 18, 2014
Hyundai Motor Company (Hyundai) is recalling certain model year 2011-2014 Sonata vehicles manufactured December 11, 2009, through May 29, 2014. In the affected vehicles, the transmission shift cable may detach from from the shift lever pin.
If the transmission shift cable detaches, the transmission gear selection may not match the indicated gear and the vehicle may move in an unintended or unexpected direction, increasing the risk of a crash. Furthermore, when the driver parks the vehicle, despite selecting the 'PARK' position, the transmission may not be in 'PARK.' If the vehicle is not in the 'PARK' position and the parking brake is not applied, there is a risk the vehicle will roll away as the driver and other occupants exit the vehicle or anytime thereafter. A vehicle rollaway increases the risk of injury to exiting occupants and bystanders.
Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and, as necessary, repair the connection between the shift cable and shift lever, free of charge. The recall began in September 2014. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-800-633-5151. Hyundai's number for this recall is 123.
Campaign 14V434000 on NHTSA.gov
Service brakes, hydraulicJul 18, 2014
Hyundai Motor Company (Hyundai) is recalling certain model year 2011 Sonata vehicles manufactured from December 11, 2009, through September 1, 2010. The affected vehicles may experience a brake fluid leak from the two brake lines that connect the brake system's master cylinder to the Hydraulic Electronic Control Unit (HECU) due to insufficient seal between the inner brake hose and metal brake line fitting.
If the brake lines leak brake sufficient fluid, the brake warning lamp in the instrument cluster will illuminate and longer stopping distance will be required, increasing the risk of a vehicle crash.
Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will replace the brake hoses with a revised service part, free of charge. The recall began in September 2014. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-800-633-5151. Hyundai's number for this recall is 122.
Campaign 14V433000 on NHTSA.gov
Exterior lighting, brake lights, switchApr 1, 2013
Hyundai Motor Company (Hyundai) is recalling certain model year 2006-2009 Accent, model year 2007-2011 Azera, Sonata and Sante Fe,2006-2011 Tucson, 2009-2011 Elantra Touring, 2007-2010 Elantra, 2008-2011 Veracruz, 2009-2011 Genesis, 2010-2011 Genesis Coupe, 2007-2008 Entourage, and 2006-2008 Tiburon vehicles. Originally, in April 2013, Hyundai recalled 1,059,824 model year 2007-2009 Accent and Tucson, model year 2007-2010 Elantra, model year 2007-2011 Santa Fe, model year 2008-2009 Veracruz, model year 2010-2011 Genesis Coupe, and model year 2011 Sonata vehicles. In September 2013, Hyundai informed the agency that it was adding more vehicles to this campaign, representing an additional 652,512 units. The total number of vehicles being recalled is now 1,712,336. In the affected vehicles, the stop lamp switch may malfunction. A malfunctioning stop lamp switch may cause the brake lights to not illuminate when the brake pedal is depressed or may cause an inability to deactivate the cruise control by depressing the brake pedal. Additionally, a malfunctioning stop lamp switch may also result in intermittent operation of the push-button start feature, affect the operation of the brake transmission shift interlock feature, preventing the shifter from being moved out of the PARK position and cause the Electronic Stability Control (ESC) malfunction light to illuminate.
Failure to illuminate the stop lamps during braking or inability to disengage the cruise control could increase the risk of a crash. Additionally, when the ignition is in the 'ON' position, the transmission shifter may be able to be moved out of Park without first applying the brake. This may lead to unintentional movement of the car which may increase the risk of a crash.
Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will replace the stop lamp switch, free of charge. The safety recall began on April 22, 2013. Owners may contact Hyundai at 1-800-633-5151. Hyundai's recall campaign number is 110.
Campaign 13V113000 on NHTSA.gov
Steering, gear box, shaft sectorOct 1, 2010
HYUNDAI IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2011 SONATA VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM DECEMBER 11, 2009, THROUGH SEPTEMBER 10, 2010. ON SOME OF THESE VEHICLES THE STEERING COLUMN INTERMEDIATE SHAFT UNIVERSAL JOINT CONNECTIONS MAY HAVE BEEN EITHER IMPROPERLY ASSEMBLED OR INSUFFICIENTLY TIGHTENED.
IMPROPER ASSEMBLY OR INSUFFICIENT TIGHTENING OF THE CONNECTIONS COULD RESULT IN A COMPLETE SEPARATION OR COMPROMISED ATTACHMENT OF THE CONNECTIONS, SUCH THAT THE DRIVER COULD EXPERIENCE A LOSS OF, OR REDUCTION IN, STEERING CAPABILITY INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE STEERING COLUMN INTERMEDIATE SHAFT UNIVERSAL JOINT CONNECTIONS FOR PROPER ASSEMBLY AND TORQUE. IN ADDITION DEALERS WILL UPDATE THE POWER STEERING SOFTWARE FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON OCTOBER 11, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT HYUNDAI CUSTOMER SERVICE CENTER AT 1-787-999-3333.
Campaign 10V457000 on NHTSA.gov
Steering, gear box, shaft sectorSep 20, 2010
HYUNDAI IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2011 SONATA VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM DECEMBER 11, 2009, THROUGH SEPTEMBER 10, 2010. ON SOME OF THESE VEHICLES THE STEERING COLUMN INTERMEDIATE SHAFT UNIVERSAL JOINT CONNECTIONS MAY HAVE BEEN EITHER IMPROPERLY ASSEMBLED OR INSUFFICIENTLY TIGHTENED.
IMPROPER ASSEMBLY OR INSUFFICIENT TIGHTENING OF THE CONNECTIONS COULD RESULT IN A COMPLETE SEPARATION OR COMPROMISED ATTACHMENT OF THE CONNECTIONS, SUCH THAT THE DRIVER COULD EXPERIENCE A LOSS OF, OR REDUCTION IN, STEERING CAPABILITY INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE STEERING COLUMN INTERMEDIATE SHAFT UNIVERSAL JOINT CONNECTIONS FOR PROPER ASSEMBLY AND TORQUE. IN ADDITION DEALERS WILL UPDATE THE POWER STEERING SOFTWARE FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN DURING OCTOBER 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT HYUNDAI CUSTOMER ASSISTANCE CENTER AT 1-800-633-5151.
Campaign 10V426000 on NHTSA.gov
Latches/locks/linkages, doors, latchMar 2, 2010
HYUNDAI-KIA HAS NOTIFIED NHTSA ABOUT A DEFECT IN CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2011 SONATA VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM DECEMBER 11, 2009 THROUGH FEBRUARY 15, 2010. THE FRONT INSIDE DOOR LOCK SWITCH CAN REMAIN IN THE UNLATCHED POSITION.
THE DOOR MAY NOT BE IN THE LOCKED POSITION AND MAY OPEN WHILE THE VEHICLE IS IN MOTION, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN INJURY TO THE DRIVER OR PASSENGER.
HYUNDAI-KIA WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND DEALERS WILL REPAIR THE VEHICLES BY REPLACING LATCHES AFFECTED BY THIS RECALL CAMPAIGN FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MARCH 12, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT HYUNDAI CUSTOMER ASSISTANCE CENTER AT 1-800-633-5151.
Campaign 10V070000 on NHTSA.gov
Representative owner complaints: engine
1,011 reports, newest first. Show all
Power train, Engine, Fuel/propulsion system, Oct 2, 2025
The affected component is the engine/rod bearing (Theta II 2.4L). My 2011 Hyundai Sonata stalled and the engine locked up twice in live traffic (March 2025 and July 2025). The vehicle is available for inspection if needed. This created a serious safety risk to me and others on the road, as the stall occurred on [XXX] at highway speeds. This failure could have been catastrophic had it happened on the DC/Baltimore Beltway or another high-traffic roadway. Hyundai’s system shows Recall 132 was marked complete at very low mileage (around 32,000 miles), but my vehicle later developed oil consumption and stalling consistent with rod bearing failure. Capitol Heights Hyundai noted a warranty pre-authorization (PA) in March 2025 and told me Hyundai needed my mailing address “for the claim,” but later said it was a typo and that no record exists. The dealership charged me for a diagnostic but did not inspect the vehicle for rod bearing failure, despite symptoms consistent with Recall 132. Annapolis Hyundai, where the car was purchased as a CPO, has admitted they have no documentation that Recall 132 was ever performed (no repair order, mileage, or technician notes). Yet Hyundai’s system shows Recall 132 marked “complete.” Without proof that the KSDS software or bearing inspection was done, I belive this recall should be considered open. Hyundai Consumer Affairs has stated that I must pay for towing and diagnosis before they will investigate, with possible reimbursement later. This conflicts with federal law (49 U.S.C. § 30120), which requires recall diagnosis and repair at no cost to the consumer. Prior to the failures, my vehicle had a history of oil consumption and “no oil on dipstick” findings, which are known precursors to rod bearing failure. No warning lamps appeared before the stalls. I am requesting NHTSA’s assistance in requiring Hyundai to provide documentation or reopen Recall 132 and perform a no-cost inspection/repair to ensure this vehicle is safe to operate INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Engine, Oct 1, 2025
I am the proud owner of a 2011 Hyundai Sonata this is my 3rd sonata; we love it due to the worry free long last and warranty. Never had any issues through the years until last night ([XXX]). When getting off from work 6:15PM heading home for about 30 mins. I was driving my car approximately 35 mph when I went to turn a corner suddenly, my car started sputtering, knocking sound and failed to accelerate having traffic behind me not to cause an accident I put my hazard flashers on, and I lean over to the right on grass. Puzzled and scared saying to myself “ What the Hecks” what’s going on. The car parked on the side was having hard time staying on and shut down. I then went and opened the hood to check to make sure nothing was in my engine causing it, everything looked normal except, the smell of oil has a burnt smell to it which means in technical terms it has thrown a rod and bent valves and smell of burned electric. Finally, we called AAA, they advised their busy and it will be about 2 hrs. So, I sat there to wait for AAA. As I sat in my car waiting, I started researching online. I currently do not have any recalls or ever got any notice. I came across there is an active class action lawsuit going on for the rod bearing going out in these models and years. After some time, I called AAA back to get an ETA, they told us they were extremely busy, it would be about another 45 mins. At that time another tow company pulled up and asked if we needed a tow, we didn’t want to wait longer for AAA to get home so decided to have it towed home … totally cost $175. Today I am trying to contact Hyundai to see what we going to do regarding my car and praying it can get fixed on this recall that I had no idea and thanks God, I turned it off my car could start a fire & burned up. I never got notice about recalls for my engine and It’s sad Hyundai does contact owners ahead to let them know about this problem, think about it we are talking about lives. Thank you for taking INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Engine, Sep 29, 2025
The contact owns a 2011 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated that while driving at 55 MPH and depressing the accelerator pedal, the vehicle hesitated and stopped independently. The contact stated the vehicle went into LIMP Mode independently, with a clinking sound coming from the engine. The contact pulled into a parking lot, awaiting tow truck assistance. Neither a dealer nor an independent mechanic was contacted. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic, where the vehicle was inspected and the contact that the lifters needed to be replaced. The vehicle was then towed to the dealer, where it was diagnosed that the lifters, rod bearings, and piston rings needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 15V568000 (ENGINE); however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and denied the claim. The failure mileage was 167,000.
Engine, Sep 24, 2025
I own a 2011 Hyundai Sonata with a 2.0 turbocharged engine. The engine failed/presents issues such as loss of power, rattling, oil consumption, and smoking, which resulted in my engine seizing up. This creates a serious safety risk while driving, to now my car no longer operates. I checked NHTSA’s recall database and found no open recalls for my VIN regarding engine replacement, but I believe this engine defect should be investigated for a recall.
Engine, Sep 22, 2025
I had just started up my vehicle as normal and exited a parking lot when all of a sudden the vehicle switched off and I was able to safely maneuver to the side of the road and it would refuse to start, and there was smoking coming from beside the engine and we were unsure of what it was. I got it towed to a local mechanic and he let me know that it was an engine failure, and that the starter had burned as result of that.
Power train, Engine, Sep 16, 2025
on [XXX] iwas driving coming back home from [XXX] by exit [XXX]. the engine turn off and didnt turn back on. i had to get a town to take me out of the highway and pay $141.00 becide that my engine seized. now i dont have a car and the car didn't gave me any notification that something it was going on with the engine. if i had any light on the car i wil take it to the mechanic, know i loss my source of income because hyundai problems with engine. and to get another engine it cost $5000. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Engine, Sep 12, 2025
I would like to file a complaint regarding a serious engine issue with my vehicle. At times, when I put the car in reverse, the engine suddenly accelerates on its own without pressing the gas pedal. This unexpected acceleration creates a dangerous situation and increases the risk of an accident. I request that this matter be investigated for potential safety defects to prevent harm to drivers and passengers.
Power train, Other or unspecified, Engine, Aug 29, 2025
Not sure . The car has been regulaurly maintenced and one day the emgine complagely seized up going down the road .
Electrical system, Engine, Aug 28, 2025
2011 Hyundai Sonata had a Theta ii engine replaced in September 2024 after engine failure. Hyundai paid for the engine through the extended warranty on the theta engines. Check engine light is still illuminated after new engine and after multiple visits to the dealership, they say the wiring harness is bad. Contacted Hyundai Corporate who said they will not pay for anymore warranty repairs, even though the wiring harness was damaged from the bad engine or during the replacement. From my understanding, it is dangerous to drive a car with a bad wiring harness due to fire risk, loss of power, or loss of safety components.
Other or unspecified, Engine, Aug 22, 2025
This car has been having white smoke since i got it the smoke coming from the exhaust smells like oil burning.
Engine, Aug 21, 2025
While driving our 2011 Hyundai Sonata on [XXX], my fiancée and I experienced sudden engine failure on [XXX]. The car suddenly lost power and began vibrating violently, then stalled completely and would not restart. We had to pull over in a dangerous area with no power and limited shoulder space, creating a serious safety hazard. A relative had previously scanned the vehicle and retrieved a P1326 knock sensor code, indicating a potential engine bearing issue. He cleared the code temporarily in an attempt to drive the vehicle again. However, when it failed on the freeway, we were forced to tow the vehicle twice—first to our home and then to Anaheim Hyundai for diagnosis. Hyundai later denied warranty assistance, claiming "exceptional maintenance neglect" despite the fact that we provided all available oil change records since our 2017 purchase. We were not the original owners, yet were expected to produce records dating back to 2013. No sludge or varnish evidence was cited in the repair order, and the dealer simply claimed a seized engine. We’ve since been denied under both the extended warranty and goodwill policies, even though our engine displayed the same symptoms covered in the Theta II engine class action settlement. This failure was dangerous, left us without transportation, and has caused serious financial and emotional strain. We are reporting this because it reflects a potential ongoing safety risk for other Hyundai owners. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Power train, Engine, Aug 16, 2025, crash
While driving on the highway, the motor all of a sudden lost all power and the brakes locked causing a collision. I've never had any problems until then. My car was in tip top shape with no issues until the engine / motor decided to defect. Hyundai she recall this engine issue before someone gets killed
Engine and engine cooling, Aug 14, 2025
The contact owns a 2011 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle jerked, and the vehicle failed to accelerate as intended while depressing the accelerator pedal. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The contact stated that on a separate occasion, while driving 35 MPH, there was smoke coming from underneath the hood. The contact pulled over to the side of the road and turned off the vehicle. The contact opened the hood, and there was smoke coming from the valve cover and coolant reservoir. The contact waited for the engine to cool down and the vehicle was able to restart. The contact stated that on a separate occasion, after turning off the vehicle after arriving at work, there was an abnormal bubbling sound coming from underneath the hood. The contact opened the hood and there were bubbles coming from the radiator. Prior to the failure, the contact had replaced the radiator, due to the engine overheating. Two weeks later the radiator hose detached. The contact stated that the fluid leaking from the radiator was dark brown and seemed to be mixed with slush. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic who determined that there was foreign parts inside the radiator. The contact was informed that the radiator needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. A mobile mechanic arrived at the residence and confirmed that the radiator needed to be replaced and an unknown valve on top of the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure became progressively worse, and the vehicle was no longer driven. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.
Engine, Aug 8, 2025
While driving at highway speed, the engine suddenly lost power and the brakes locked. I narrowly avoided a collision. This sudden failure left me unable to safely control the vehicle, placing myself and other motorists in immediate danger. This is not only a mechanical defect but a serious safety hazard that matches the exact conditions described in Hyundai’s prior Theta II engine recalls.
Engine, Aug 6, 2025
I purchased this 2011 Hyundai Sonata (VIN: [XXX]) on [XXX]. A few weeks later, the engine started knocking, wouldn’t shift beyond 2nd gear, and wouldn’t go over 60 mph. A diagnostic test at Express Oil returned the error code P1326, which is tied to Hyundai’s Recall Campaign 132 for engine failure due to bearing wear. I brought the car to Serra Hyundai in Trussville, AL. I provided my bill of sale, diagnostic code, and a recent oil change receipt, but Hyundai denied my engine replacement, saying there was a gap in service history between 2021 and 2025 — even though I was not the owner during that time. They confirmed it was a recall-eligible engine and admitted the failure matches the recall symptoms, yet are refusing to fix it — while also suggesting I “trade the car in” instead. This is a known safety defect, and I believe Hyundai is wrongfully denying legitimate recall repairs based on ownership history rather than actual engine failure. I am now without a working vehicle. I respectfully request that NHTSA investigate Hyundai’s denial of engine replacements under Campaign 132 for new owners and hold them accountable. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Other or unspecified, Engine, Jul 29, 2025
I recently got a radiator replaced and now my car won't reverse
Engine, Jul 15, 2025
The contact owns a 2011 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle inadvertently lost motive power. The contact was able to pull over to the shoulder of the roadway, where the vehicle failed to restart. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic, who diagnosed a failure with the engine. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. After investigating the failure, the contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V727000 (Engine); however, the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.
Engine, Jun 20, 2025
The contact owns a 2011 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated after the vehicle was serviced, while driving 50 MPH and depressing the accelerator pedal, the vehicle lost power. The contact pulled over to the side of the road while awaiting towing assistance. The contact stated that while waiting on the tow assistance, the contact became aware there was smoke coming from the engine. The vehicle was towed to the residence. The contact stated that several warning lights were illuminated. Neither a dealer nor an independent mechanic was contacted. The vehicle was not taken to be diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 112,000.
Electrical system, Engine, May 23, 2025
The vehicle just died out of nowhere. Would not start back up. Has a clicking noise when trying start and then had a burning smell.
Engine, May 2, 2025
My girlfriend was driving my car at 70mph on [XXX] when suddenly the engine stalled abruptly with no warning. She had to coast over to the shoulder and come to a stop. At this point the engine would NOT turn over. If it did it was very challenged to turn over as if the engine was seized-partially or fully. My car was towed to my mechanic who later confirmed that the battery and starter were indeed good and that the engine seemed partially seized and even possessed metal shavings. On top of this my car has been consuming half a quart of oil every 400 miles as I check the oil everytime I get gas. So with this information my car seems to be fit for the Hyundai class action settlement recall #132 for the 2011 Sonata GDI engine. So I towed my car to Coastal Hyundai of Melbourne, FL, a dealership where all my records and maintenance have been done and are up to date. My car has been at this dealership for TWO weeks and they won’t even confirm that they have looked at it. I am under the understanding that it is costing Hyundai a lot of money to replace this engines and that they purposely stall hoping to somehow save money. I commute 72 miles round trip to work and have been greatly inconvenienced as I am having to borrow cars from family and figure out how to get to work. Any help in this regard is greatly appreciated. Thank you in advance! INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Other or unspecified, Engine, Apr 28, 2025
I purchased a vehicle from Cash Car Network on 4/3/2025. At the time of purchase, the vehicle's odometer showed a mileage significantly lower than what official records indicated. After purchasing, I reviewed the Carfax report and the vehicle registration history, which documented that the actual mileage was approximately 270,000 miles — much higher than what the odometer displayed. This discrepancy suggests that either the odometer was tampered with or the instrument cluster was switched from another vehicle without disclosure, which violates federal laws related to odometer fraud (49 U.S.C. § 32701 et seq.). Additionally, the vehicle experienced multiple serious mechanical failures shortly after the purchase, affecting its safety and drivability. I have since returned the vehicle to the dealership. I am filing this complaint to report potential odometer fraud, failure to disclose critical vehicle information, and the sale of an unsafe vehicle to a consumer. I am requesting that NHTSA investigate this dealership for possible violations of federal odometer disclosure laws. Supporting documentation, including the Carfax report and registration history, is available upon request.
Engine, Fuel/propulsion system, Apr 18, 2025
I had bought this car off Facebook marketplace after confirming with my dad that it was a good car, when I had finally saved enough. After I took it home the check engine light had come on not too long after, the engine stalls when turning the key, pressing on the brake helps start the engine. Turns out the car was a salvage title and my dad didn’t know that and I didn’t know what that was.
Engine, Apr 4, 2025
Engine just stopped with no warnings or signs. Will not run. Mechanic said motor was locked up
Engine, Apr 3, 2025
On [XXX] my 2011 Hyundai Sonata seized and all lights illuminated on the dash while accelerating on to a busy street. I was able to pull to the side of the road but unable to restart the vehicle. I had it towed to Wesley Chapel Hyundai (27000 Wesley Chapel Blvd., Wesley Chapel, FL 33544) who notified me that there was an oil pan leak which was the possible cause of the engine failing. They corrected that issue and completed an oil change on 3/14/2025. I picked up the vehicle and there were no issues on the drive home which was approximately 11 miles. Then on [XXX] after driving approximately 24 miles to my place of employment, the engine started knocking but I was able to arrive and park with no issues. I immediately turned the vehicle off and contacted the closest dealership to have it towed there which was Courtesy Hyundai (3810 W Hillsborough Ave, Tampa, FL 33614). I informed them that the vehicle was on it's way there and to notify me when it arrived. It wasn't until I called several hours later that they advised me the vehicle was received and that they would be submitting a claim to Hyundai Motors of America for the Engine. I had to continuously call to get updates as no one would contact me. I then was told that HMA was requesting service records. I emailed those records to the service advisor on 3/20/2025. I had not heard anything for about a week so I contacted the Service Manager who stated HMA is requesting additional service records. I asked why I was not informed sooner but was unable to get a real answer. I then forwarded those documents directly to the manager on 3/28/25. I was then notified on 4/1/25 that HMA had denied the claim due to negligence of the motor despite providing the requested documents as well as confirming via Hyundai's website that my vehicle was affected by the Sonata Engine Connecting Rod Bearing Inspection Recall Campaign. I am now being quoted $4059.89 + tax to replace the engine. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Engine, Mar 21, 2025
From: [XXX] [XXX] [XXX] I have attempted to make a Better Business Complaint against Hyundai Corporate Office Headquarters 10550 Talbert Ave. Fountain Valley, CA 92708-6031 USA, but I am being blocked from filling out a complaint; attempts to make a complaint against the Hyundai Corporation results in being forwarded to a NULLED screen. NO ONE IS ALLOWED TO FILL OUT A BBB COMPLAINT AGAINST THIS BUSINESS! On [XXX] my wife could have been killed when driving her 2011 Hyundai Sonata (VIN [XXX] ) on the highway when her engine stalled out having to take evasive action not to cause an accident. Note my wife is [XXX]. According to a former Hyundai technician at Schmidt Auto Care (285a Hiawatha Trail, Springboro, OH [937] 514-7860 said there is an open recall (T3G) on this vehicle which is for engine replacement. Schmidt Auto care technician said “the oil ports were drilled wrong in the engine causing them to go out after 100,000 miles.” On March 20, 2025 Ian Clemons Service Advisor at Voss Hyundai (766 Miamisburg – Centerville Road, Centerville, Ohio 45459 [937] 428-2416) stated, “From the pictures of the valve cover it is obvious the engine has had the oil changes because it is super clean, but Hyundai is wanting all the oil change records” (which have been lost in a move). And because of it they won’t replace the engine even though Ian Clemons is advocating for it knowing that it is just thing for Hyundai to do. Case ([XXX] Hyundai Customer Care 1-800-633-5151) Hyundai is trying to hide this recall, calling it an extended warranty on the engine and the public needs to be warned knowing my wife could have been killed by this engine defect and Hyundai needs to make this wrong a right. I ask for your help to resolve this matter of public safety. Thank-you, [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)