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.

Complaints by model year
  1. 3,376

Of the 2011 reports, 116 involved a crash and 112 involved a fire. 85 people were injured and 3 people died.

Primary concernSteering1,171 reports · 35% of complaints
Owner complaints3,376Filed with NHTSA
Recall relationship14 safety recallsNHTSA campaign records

What owners report most often

  1. Steering1,171
  2. Engine967
  3. Electrical system443
  4. Air bags418
  5. Exterior lighting248
  6. Other or unspecified213
  7. Service brakes175
  8. Power train173

Recalls and investigations

  1. 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

  2. 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

  3. 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

  4. 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

  5. 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

  6. 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

  7. 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

  8. 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

  9. 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

  10. 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

  11. 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

  12. 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

  13. 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

  14. 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

  1. Engine, Oct 16, 2015

    TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 HYUNDAI SONATA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT VARIOUS SPEEDS, AN ABNORMAL NOISE WAS HEARD NEAR THE FRONT DRIVER SIDE OF THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 66,000.

  2. Engine, Oct 14, 2015

    TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 HYUNDAI SONATA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS IN THE RUN POSITION OR WHEN TURNED OFF, THE ENGINE MADE AN ABNORMAL NOISE. THE FAILURE RECURRED ON NUMEROUS OCCASIONS. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO A DEALER OR INDEPENDENT MECHANIC. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 63,000.

  3. Engine, Oct 14, 2015

    THE ENGINE IS MAKING A METALLIC KNOCKING NOISE. TOOK IT TO HYUNDAI DEALERSHIP FOR OIL CHANGE ON 10/11. THEY NOTED THE ISSUE WAS TAKEN CARE OF WITH THE OIL CHANGE WHICH IT WAS NOT. THERE IS AN INTERIM NOTICE RECALL ON THE VEHICLE AND MY CAR IS AFFECTED. IT STATES IF YOU CONTINUE TO DRIVE THE VEHICLE WITH THE WORN CONNECTING ROD BEARING THE BEARING COULD FAIL AND THE ENGINE COULD STALL. WHEN I CONTACTED THE DEALERSHIP THEY STATED IT HAD BEEN NOTED IN MY FILE, THAT THERE WAS NO REMEDY AT THIS TIME BUT TO CONTACT THEM ONCE THE REMEDY WAS READY. THIS IS NOT ACCEPTABLE. I DO NOT FEEL SAFE DRIVING THIS CAR.

  4. Engine, Oct 14, 2015

    TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 HYUNDAI SONATA. WHILE DRIVING AT VARIOUS SPEEDS, THERE WAS AN ABNORMAL NOISE COMING FROM THE FRONT OF THE VEHICLE. THE FAILURE RECURRED NUMEROUS TIMES. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO A DEALER OR DIAGNOSED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND STATED THAT THE VIN WAS INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 15V568000 (ENGINE) HOWEVER, THE PART TO DO THE REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 150,000.

  5. Engine, Oct 14, 2015

    TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 HYUNDAI SONATA. WHILE DRIVING AT APPROXIMATELY 60 MPH, THE VEHICLE JERKED. IN ADDITION, THE VEHICLE WAS UNABLE TO START. THE FAILURE OCCURRED INTERMITTENTLY. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 104,000.

  6. Engine, Oct 14, 2015

    TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 HYUNDAI SONATA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT 70 MPH, THE ENTIRE INSTRUMENT PANEL ILLUMINATED AND THE ENGINE STALLED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A DEALER BUT WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 68,000.

  7. Engine, Oct 14, 2015

    TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 HYUNDAI SONATA. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 65 MPH, A LOUD KNOCKING NOISE EMITTED FROM THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT. THE FAILURE RECURRED INTERMITTENTLY. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER. THE VIN WAS INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 15V568000 (ENGINE); HOWEVER, THE PART NEEDED TO PERFORM THE REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 90,000.

  8. Engine, Oct 13, 2015

    WE PURCHASED THE CAR USED IN 2012. IN AUGUST OF 2015, THE ENGINE SIZED WHILE MY SPOUSE WAS DRIVING TO WORK. ON THE INTERSTATE AT ABOUT 55MPH. WE ENDED UP HAVING TO REPLACE THE ENTIRE ENGINE TO THE TUNE OF $4000+. THIS SHOULD NOT HAVE HAPPENED TO A CAR THAT IS NOT EVEN 5 YEARS OLD. THIS IS NOT OUR ONLY ISSUE WITH THIS MAKE/MODEL AND NOT MY FIRST COMPLAINT.

  9. Engine, Oct 13, 2015

    TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 HYUNDAI SONATA. WHILE DRIVING AT 25 MPH, THE VEHICLE STALLED. THE CONTACT WAS UNABLE TO RESTART THE VEHICLE. THE CHECK ENGINE WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO DIAGNOSED THAT THE ENGINE NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF HE FAILURE. THE VIN WAS INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 15V568000 (ENGINE). THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 77,000.

  10. Engine, Oct 8, 2015

    TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 HYUNDAI SONATA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT APPROXIMATELY 30 MPH, THE VEHICLE FAILED TO ACCELERATE WHEN THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED AND VARIOUS WARNING LIGHTS ILLUMINATED. IN ADDITION, THE VEHICLE STALLED. THE VEHICLE WAS ABLE TO RESTART AFTER THE SECOND ATTEMPT. ON ANOTHER OCCASION, THE VEHICLE WAS NOT ABLE TO START AND WAS TOWED TO THE DEALER. THE CONTACT RECEIVED A NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 15V568000 (ENGINE) HOWEVER, THE RECALL AND REMEDY PART WERE NOT AVAILABLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 85,000.

  11. Engine, Oct 7, 2015, fire

    TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 HYUNDAI SONATA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT 40 MPH, THE VEHICLE STALLED WITHOUT WARNING. THE CONTACT STATED THAT SMOKE BEGAN TO FILL THE CABIN OF THE VEHICLE, BUT SUDDENLY STOPPED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE DEALER WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE ENGINE NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE VEHICLE WAS INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 15V568000 (ENGINE).THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 48,000.

  12. Engine, Oct 7, 2015

    DRIVING HOME, THE SONATA REVVED HIGH AND STALED OUT, A TOW TRUCK HAD TO BE CALLED ON A BUSY INTERSTATE. THE CAR STILL WILL NOT START, IT IS FINANCED STILL AND NOW WILL NOT RUN. THIS IS CONSISTENT WITH THE FOLLOWING RECALL INFORMATION: SUMMARY: 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 AND POSSIBLE ENGINE FAILURE. A WORN CONNECTING ROD BEARING WILL PRODUCE A METALLIC, CYCLIC KNOCKING NOISE FROM THE ENGINE AND POSSIBLE ENGINE FAILURE. SAFETY RISK: ENGINE FAILURE WOULD RESULT IN A VEHICLE STALL, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.

  13. Exterior lighting, Service brakes, Engine, Oct 6, 2015

    THERE ARE OPEN FACTORY RECALLS ON THIS CAR AND I HAVE NOT RECEIVED A LETTER TO FIX THE DEFICIENCIES BEFORE IT GETS TO BECOME AN ISSUE OF POTENTIAL PHYSICAL HARM ON THE ROADWAY. DRIVING DOWN THE ROAD THE FRONT SPRING JUST BROKE A SECTION OFF ABOUT A FOOT LONG, NOW DRIVES DANGEROUSLY BRAKES, TRANSMISSION, ENGINE, HEAD LAMPS, SUSPENSION

  14. Engine, Oct 6, 2015

    TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 HYUNDAI SONATA. WHILE DRIVING AT VARIOUS SPEEDS, THERE WAS A LOUD ABNORMAL NOISE COMING FROM THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE ENGINE WAS FAILING AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND STATED THAT THE VIN WAS INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 15V568000 (ENGINE); HOWEVER, THE PART TO DO THE REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 20,000. UPDATED 1/12/2016 *CN THE CONSUMER STATED THE WARRANTY WAS EXTENDED AN ADDITIONAL 20,000 MILES. THE CONSUMER STATED THE LOUD NOISE WAS DUE TO A DEFECTIVE PULLEY THAT WAS REPLACED. THE FAILURE WAS STILL PRESENT. UPDATED 10/30/2017*JS

  15. Engine, Oct 6, 2015

    10/4/2015 I WAS DROPPING MY DAUGHTER OFF WHEN MY CAR STALLED CARS HAD TO SWERVE OUT OF THE WAY TO PREVENT FROM HITTING US. THE CAR WAS STUCK IN THE MIDDLE OF THE STREET I HAD TO PUSH IT OVER SO THAT WE COULD BE SAFE. I HAD TO GET THE CAR TOWED TO THE DEALERSHIP. ITS BEEN TWO DAYS AND STILL THEY HAVE NOT LOOKED AT MY CAR AND HAVE NOT GIVEN ME A RENTAL CAR. I LOOKED ON LINE AND I SEE THAT THERE IS 5 RECALLS FOR MY CAR AND ONE IS AN ENGINE ISSUE WHICH CAUSES THE CAR TO STALL. I DO NOT FEEL SAFE IN THIS CAR ANYMORE AND NEED SOMETHING TO BE DONE SINCE THIS IS STOPPING ME FROM GOING TO WORK AND PICKING UP MY DAUGHTER. I DO NOT WANT THIS DANGEROUS CAR ANYMORE DUE TO ENGINE RECALL

  16. Engine, Oct 6, 2015

    TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 HYUNDAI SONATA. WHILE OPERATING THE VEHICLE, A KNOCKING AND CLICKING NOISE WERE PRESENT COMING FROM THE ENGINE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER WHO WAS UNABLE TO DETERMINE THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 68,000.

  17. Engine, Oct 5, 2015, fire

    I WAS DRIVING ON THE FREEWAY AT APPROXIMATELY 65MPH WHEN MY SONATA UNEXPECTEDLY COMPLETELY SHUT DOWN. I WAS ABLE TO COAST OFF UNTIL THE CAR DIES ON THE OFF-RAMP AND IS COMPLETELY IMMOBILE. MY CAR THEN HAD A SMALL ENGINE FIRE, BUT WAS PUT OUT AND BECAME A STATIONARY OBSTACLE DURING RUSH-HOUR TRAFFIC FORCING OTHER VEHICLES TO GO AROUND AND NEARLY CAUSED SEVERAL CATASTROPHIC ACCIDENTS AS A RESULT. IN CONTACTING THE DEALERSHIP, I LEARNED OF THE RECALL, THOUGH SEEING AS THE RECALL HAS NOT BEEN IMPLEMENTED, MANY DRIVERS CONTINUE TO DRIVE THEIR AILED VEHICLES BECAUSE THOSE OF US WHO WORK CANNOT BE WITHOUT OUR VEHICLES FOR AN UNKNOWN AMOUNT OF TIME. HYUNDAI NEEDS TO FIX THIS IMMEDIATELY AS MORE AND MORE VEHICLES WILL BEGIN TO DIE BECAUSE DRIVERS ARE TOLD THEY WILL "HAVE TO WAIT UNTIL PARTS COME IN, THERE'S NOTHING WE CAN DO UNTIL THEY COME IN OR HYUNDAI TELLS US WE CAN IMPLEMENT THE RECALL."

  18. Engine, Oct 2, 2015

    2011 HYUNDAI SONATA HAS A "NO START" CONDITION WHICH HAS OCCURRED IN THE PAST LEAVING THE MOTORIST STRANDED. VERY COMMON PROBLEM WITH SONATAS. DEALER WILL NOT WALK US THROUGH PROCEDURE TO START CAR IN ORDER TO GET IT TO THE DEALERSHIP TO FIX PROBLEM. THIS PROBLEM WAS FIXED BEFORE BUT NOW HAS HAPPENED AGAIN.

  19. Engine, Oct 2, 2015

    TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 HYUNDAI SONATA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE STALLED WITHOUT WARNING WHILE DRIVING 45 MPH ON THE HIGHWAY. THE CONTACT WAS ABLE TO COAST THE VEHICLE OVER TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE DEALER AND THEY INDICATED THAT THE ENGINE LOCKED AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE DEALER DID NOT MENTION IF THE VEHICLE WAS INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 15V568000 (ENGINE). THE CONTACT HAD NOT RECEIVED A RECALL NOTIFICATION. THE CONTACT WAS TO CONSULT WITH THE MANUFACTURER TO DETERMINE THE REMEDY TO REPAIR THE VEHICLE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 170,000.

  20. Engine, Sep 29, 2015

    TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 HYUNDAI SONATA. WHILE DRIVING 35 MPH, THE ENGINE STALLED WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A DEALER WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE ENGINE NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBERS: 14V433000 (SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC), 14V434000 (POWER TRAIN) AND 15V568000 (ENGINE). THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 70,000.

  21. Engine, Sep 28, 2015

    TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 HYUNDAI SONATA. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 45 MPH, THE VEHICLE SHUT OFF. THE CONTACT WAS ABLE TO COAST OVER TO THE RIGHT SHOULDER AND RESTART THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE ALSO MADE A KNOCKING NOISE. THE CONTACT CALLED THE INSURANCE COMPANY TO HAVE THE VEHICLE TOWED TO THE DEALER. THE TECHNICIAN STATED THAT THE MOTOR NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 124,000.

  22. Electrical system, Service brakes, Engine, Sep 28, 2015

    11/20/10: STEERING COLUMN SHAFT. 5/18/11: BRAKE SWITCH. CAR WILL NOT START OR SHIFT OUT OF GEAR. C1513 CODE. INTERNAL SHORT IN BRAKE SWITCH. 3/26/12: BRAKE SWITCH. CAR WILL NOT START. C1513 CODE. INTERNAL SHORT IN BRAKE SWITCH. SHIFT LEVER KNOB REPL. 8/5/13: BRAKE SWITCH. RECALL. REPL LEFT FRONT AXLE ASSEMBLY. 7/7/14: INHIB SWITCH-CHECK ENGINE LIGHT ON. CAR IS SHIFTING HARD, ESPECIALLY FROM P-R & THEN TO D. JOLTING SENSATION LIKE SOMEONE HIT FROM BEHIND. CODE P0705-TRANSM RANGE SENSOR MALF. 10/1/14: BRAKE TUBE. SHIFT LEVER CABLE. 10/16/14: CODE P0106: MAP SENSOR. FLEXIBLE COUPLING-CLICKING SOUND & WOBBLING WHEN TURNING. TOLD ME I WAS OVER 70K. INDICATED I WAS UNDER 70K WHEN I MADE THIS APPT. MGR WAIVED COST. 2/26/15: STARTER-WOULD NOT START-TOWED. 5/15/15: REAR PASSENGER BRAKE LIGHT-BULB BURNED OUT & MELTED INTO SOCKET. TAIL LAMP ALSO MELTED. TECH WAS ABLE TO HEAT & RESHAPE SOCKET. 8/3/15: BRAKE LIGHT SWITCH-CAR DEAD AFTER WORK. INTERNAL MALFUNCTION & CAUSED BRAKE LIGHTS TO STAY ON. HESITATION DURING ACCELERATION. DECLINED ACCURATE AUTO TO LOOK FURTHER AS CAR IS STILL UNDER WARRANTY SO I WILL TAKE IT TO HUB. IT IMPROVED. 8/25/15: BRAKE LIGHT SWITCH. SEVERE HESITATION-ALMOST REAR-ENDED FELT LIKE IT WOULD STALL (TECH NOTICED). INFORMED ACCURATE THE CAR WAS STILL UNDER WARRANTY SO I WILL TAKE IT TO HUB. HESITATION IMPROVED. 8/27/15: DIAG TESTING-HUB WAIVED COST OF DIAG TESTING-NO CODES FOUND. UNABLE TO DUPLICATE HESITATION. HESITATION OCCURRED WHEN LEAVING. 9/21/15: BRAKE LIGHT SWITCH-BRAKE LIGHTS ON. DRIVE SIDE BRAKE LIGHT IS OUT. HESITATION WORSE-FELT AS IF IT WOULD STALL! DRIVER SIDE BRAKE LAMP BULB. DRIVER SIDE TAIL LAMP OVERHEATED & WARPED. EVENTUALLY REPLACE TAIL LAMP ASSEMBLY. DECLINED FOR ACCURATE TO DO FURTHER TESTING ON THE HESITATION AS THE CAR WAS STILL UNDER WARRANTY SO I WILL TAKE IT BACK TO HUB. HESITATION IMPROVED. TO DATE, STILL DOES NOT RUN SMOOTH.

  23. Engine, Sep 28, 2015

    AS I WAS DRIVING THE VEHICLE , I WAS EXPERIENCING LOSS OF POWER AND EVEN ENGINE FAILURE. RE-STARTED AND CONTINUED TO PROCEED. TRAVELING APPROXIMATELY 25 MILES PER HOUR DOWN HILL COASTING, ENGINE DIED FOR THE THIRD TIME IN LESS THAN 4 BLOCKS. PULLED OVER ATTEMPTED TO RE-START AGAIN AND HEARD A LOUD BANG UNDER THE HOOD. PULL OFF TO SIDE OF ROAD , TO VIEW LOSE OF OIL AND STEAM FROM ENGINE. OPEN HOOD VIEW SMOKE AND PLENTY OF OIL SPRAYED OUT BACK OF ENGINE. NO POWER OR ABILITY TO MOVE VEHICLE. CALLED TOW TRUCK AND ONCE RECEIVED INFORMATION FROM MECHANIC THAT ROD WENT THROUGH ENGINE BLOCK. I REPAIRED THE VEHICLE WITH $4800.00 COST AND A USED 2013 ENGINE. COME TO FIND OUT, SEVERAL HUNDRED 2011 HYUNDAI SONATA ENGINE ARE HAVE SAME ISSUE.

  24. Engine, Sep 27, 2015

    ON SEPT. 3, 2015 WHILE DRIVING ON THE EXPRESSWAY I EXPERIENCED THE ENGINE LOCKED UP AND IMMEDIATELY PULLED ONTO SHOULDER. I TRIED TO RESTART THE ENGINE AND THE CAR BEGAN TO SMOKE. HAD IT TOWED TO DARCY HYUNDAI IN JOLIET. HYUNDAI INFORMED ME THAT THE ENGINE SEIZED UP AND THE STARTER WAS BURNED OUT AND IT WAS OUT OF WARRANTY AND SAID TO REPAIR IT WITH A REPLACEMENT ENGINE WOULD BE 5800 DOLLARS AND AT THAT POINT I DID NOT HAVE THE MONEY AND MY CREDIT CARDS WERE MAXED OUT. AND THEN I HAD TO ASKED MY FATHER FOR ADVICE EITHER TO REPAIR OR REPLACE THE VEHICLE. WE DECIDED IT WOULD BE MORE PRACTICAL TO PURCHASE A USED CAR FROM CAR-MAX AND BECAUSE OF MY FINANCIAL POSITION MY FATHER HAD TO EXTEND HIMSELF AND SIGN FOR THE CAR. THIS 2011 HYUNDAI SONATA WAS ALSO IN MY FATHERS NAME DUE TO A BANKRUPTCY.

  25. Engine, Sep 27, 2015

    MY WIFE AND I BOUGHT A 2011 HYUNDAI SONATA ON AUGUST 28TH, 2015 FROM A DEALERSHIP, BUT AFTER DRIVING THE VEHICLE FOR A PERIOD OF 10 DAYS, THE ENGINE KEEPS RUNNING WITH KNOCKING NOISE; A NOISE WHICH MY WIFE AND I WERE NOT SURE AS TO WHICH PART OF THE ENGINE IT WAS EMANATING FROM. WE THOUGH MAYBE IT WAS JUST A ROCK AND WOULD SUBSIDE AFTER FEW DRIVES, BUT IT DIDN'T. ON SEPTEMBER 25TH, 2015, WHILE MY WIFE WAS DRIVING TO THE STORE, THE VEHICLE STALLED AT A STOP SIGN, BUT AFTER REMOVING THE KEYS OFF THE IGNITION AND RE-CRANKING THE ENGINE, IT STARTED RUNNING AND THE KNOCKING NOISE WENT OFF, BUT THE ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON AFTERWARD. MY WIFE TOOK IT TO THE DEALERSHIP WE BOUGHT IT FROM FOR A CHECK UP AND REPAIR, BUT THE DEALERSHIP'S MAINTENANCE SHOP WAS UNABLE TO FIX THE VEHICLE FOR THE REASON THAT IT HAD NOT REACHED 30 DAYS SINCE WE BOUGHT THE VEHICLE FOR THE WARRANT THAT WE BOUGHT TO KICK IN. THIS WAS VERY FRUSTRATING AND PUZZLING FOR THE DEALERSHIP TO ACT THIS WAY TO A CUSTOMER WHO JUST BOUGHT A VEHICLE.