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
3,376 reports, newest first.
Vehicle speed control, Service brakes, Jan 28, 2014, crash
I HAD BEGUN TO ACCELERATE FROM A RED LIGHT. THE CAR IN FRONT BEGAN TO STOP AGAIN. WHEN I PRESSED ON THE BRAKE PEDAL, IT WOULD NOT GO DOWN, WAS NOT STOPPING THE CAR AT ALL. THE CAR CONTINUED TO ACCELERATE ON ITS OWN AND I HIT A VAN. THE AIRBAG WENT OFF, BUT THE ENGINE REVVED UP, AND THE CAR SHOT FORWARD AGAIN, HITTING THE OTHER VEHICLE AGAIN. I TRIED PUTTING THE CAR IN NEUTRAL AND PARK. NOTHING STOPPED IT UNTIL I TURNED THE VEHICLE OFF COMPLETELY. I HAVE THE 'NORM' SEATBELT BRUISING, SMASHED MY KNEE ON THE DASH, AND HAVE WHIPLASH AS WELL. *TR
Steering, Jan 24, 2014
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 HYUNDAI SONATA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHEN DRIVING ABOVE 50 MPH, THE VEHICLE WOULD VIOLENTLY SHAKE. THE CONTACT HAD THE VEHICLE DIAGNOSED BY AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC, WHO INDICATED THE STEERING COLUMN WAS DEFECTIVE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED AND NO SOLUTION WAS OFFERED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 100,034.
Exterior lighting, Electronic stability control (ESC), Jan 24, 2014
I HAVE EXPERIENCED SEVERAL ISSUES RELATED TO THE SONATA WITHIN THE LAST SEVERAL MONTHS STARTING IN DECEMBER, 2013. * SEVERAL OF THE SERVICE INDICATORS HAVE LIGHTED UP ON THE DASHBOARD THAT HAVE NEVER BEHAVED THIS WAY BEFORE. * DOORS WILL NOT LOCK UNLESS I HAVE MY KEY IN THE IGNITION AND THE ENGINE TURNED ON. REMOTE SWITCH DOES NOT FUNCTION AT ALL. * THE FRONT LOW-BEAM LIGHTS DO NOT FUNCTION. * THE CLOCK ON THE DASHBOARD DOES NOT FUNCTION. * INTERNAL DOME LIGHTS DO NOT FUNCTION AT ALL ON ANY SWITCH. * THE ESC LIGHT IS MALFUNCTIONING IS APPEARS. COMES ON FOR NO REASON AND STAYS ON. * SEVERAL TIMES IT HAS BEEN HARD TO GET THE CAR INTO "D" DRIVE AND THEN TO GET OUT OF "D" AND BACK INTO PARK. * ENGINE MAKES WEIRD NOISES, ROARING, AND CLINKING THAT IT HAS NEVER MADE BEFORE. * OVERALL I AM HAPPY WITH THIS VEHICLE UP UNTIL THESE ISSUES HAPPENED AND THEY SEEM TO ALL HAPPEN AT THIS PARTICULAR TIME. WITHIN THE LAST THREE MONTHS. *TR
Engine, Jan 18, 2014, fire
2011 SONATA TURBO PURCHASED BRAND NEW BY A FAMILY MEMBER MAINTAINED AND GARAGE KEPT. IN MARCH OF 2013 AND WITH 76,364 MILES ON THE CAR I EXPERIENCED WHAT HYUNDAI CATEGORIZED AS A CATASTROPHIC ENGINE FAILURE. THERE WAS NO INDICATION OF ANY PROBLEM, NO WARNING LIGHTS, THE ENGINE SPUN A ROD BEARING AND THREW A PISTON ROD THROUGH THE BLOCK. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A DEALERSHIP, ASSESSED AND DETERMINED THAT THE ENGINE WOULD REQUIRE REPLACEMENT. DURING THE REPAIRS, A LONG BLOCK ENGINE WAS PUT IN THE VEHICLE AND WHEN CRANKED AT THE DEALERSHIP, VIBRATED SO BAD THAT THEY DETERMINED THE REPLACEMENT ENGINE WAS NOT FUNCTIONAL. A 3RD ENGINE WAS PLACED IN THE CAR AND AT 85,960 MILES ON JULY 29, 2013 THE 3RD ENGINE DID THE SAME THING AS THE FIRST ENGINE, NO WARNING LIGHTS, NO INDICATION ANYTHING WAS WRONG, SPUN A ROD BEARING AND THREW THE SAME LOCATION CYLINDER PISTON ROD THREW THE BLOCK AND IN THIS CATASTROPHIC ENGINE FAILURE, THE CAR CAUGHT ON FIRE. FORTUNATELY IT DID PUT ITSELF OUT. VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A DIFFERENT HYUNDAI DEALERSHIP, ASSESSED AND DETERMINED AN ENGINE REPLACEMENT WAS REQUIRED. HYUNDAI IS STILL UNABLE TO DETERMINE THE CAUSE FOR BOTH CATASTROPHIC ENGINE FAILURES. 24 HOURS AFTER THE VEHICLE WAS RETURNED W/ REPLACEMENT MOTOR, MY GARAGE FLOOR AND DRIVEWAY WERE COVERED IN MOTOR OIL. I WAS TOLD BY THE DEALERSHIP TO FILL THE OIL LEVEL AND DRIVE THE CAR IN FOR ASSESSMENT. IT WAS DETERMINED THAT THE OIL SENDING UNIT TUBE WAS NOT PROPERLY THREADED INTO THE ENGINE BLOCK, CAUSING THE LEAK. THE DEALERSHIP SAID THE ENGINE CAME FROM THE FACTORY THAT WAY ALTHOUGH THEY DID MAKE THE REPAIR. NOW THE CAR IS OUT OF WARRANTY (SURPASSING THE 100,000 MILES) AND I AM LEFT WONDERING HOW LONG THIS ENGINE WILL LAST AND HOW MUCH A REPLACEMENT WILL COST ME. AFTER CONSULTING AN ATTORNEY HYUNDAI IS ONLY WILLING TO SETTLE THIS FOR ABOUT 1500.00 (NOT INCLUDING LEGAL FEES). *TR
Steering, Jan 15, 2014
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 HYUNDAI SONATA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHEN DRIVING OVER 35 MPH, THE VEHICLE WOULD DRIFT INTO THE NEXT LANE ON EITHER SIDE AND WOULD NOT REMAIN IN A STRAIGHT LINE. THE ALIGNMENT WAS ADJUSTED BY THE DEALER ON THREE SEPARATE OCCASIONS BUT THE DEFECT WAS NOT REMEDIED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED AND NO SOLUTION WAS OFFERED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 100. UPDATED 02/27/14*LJ
Exterior lighting, Jan 13, 2014
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 HYUNDAI SONATA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT SHE ATTEMPTED TO START HER VEHICLE BUT TO NO AVAIL. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE DEALER FOR INSPECTION AND THEY STATED THAT THE BRAKE LIGHT STOP SWITCH NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED BUT THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 14,000.
Electrical system, Electronic stability control (ESC), Jan 10, 2014
THE CAR WOULD NOT START AND ALL THE ELECTRICAL COMPONENT LIGHTS CAME ON (EMERGENCY LIGHTS BLINKING, TURN INDICATORS, ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL, BATTERY LIGHT INDICATOR, ETC.). THE HORN WAS BLARING ALSO AND THE KEY WAS IN MY POCKET. I THOUGHT I HIT THE EMERGENCY BUTTON BY ACCIDENT SO I PULLED OUT THE KEY AND HIT THE BUTTON OFF. IT WOULD NOT STOP. I TRIED STARTING THE CAR, BUT IT WOULD NOT. IT WENT OFF FINALLY. SO, I TRIED STARTING THE CAR AND ALL THE STUFF STARTED AGAIN. SO, I CAME HOME WHILE I COULD. THIS IS TOTALLY UNACCEPTABLE AND DANGEROUS. *TR
Steering, Electronic stability control (ESC), Dec 30, 2013
ON DECEMBER 10, 2013 I WAS GETTING INTO MY CAR AND WHEN I PUT THE KEYS INTO IGNITION AND TURNED THE CAR ON THE EPS LIGHT CAME ON, SO I THEN WENT INTO THE GLOVE COMPARTMENT TO GET THE SONATA BOOK OUT TO SEE WHAT THAT MEANS THE STEERING WHEEL STARTED SHAKING VIOLENTLY. I WAS SO SCARED THAT THE CAR WAS GOING TO BLOW, I TURNED THE CAR OFF, AND TOOK THE KEYS OUT TO SEE IF IT WOULD STOP, BUT IT DIDN'T, IT WAS STILL SHAKING. I THEN HAD TO GET THE CAR TOWED TO PORTER HYUNDAI. THEY THEN RECALIBRATED THE STEERING ANGLE SENSOR AND CLEARED THE CODE. THEN ON SUNDAY DECEMBER 29, 2013 MY SON WAS DRIVING THE CAR AND WHILE HE WAS DRIVING THE EPS LIGHT CAME ON AND THE STEERING WHEEL STARTED SHAKING VIOLENTLY AGAIN WHILE HE WAS DRIVING, IT WAS VERY HARD FOR HIM TO GET CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE. HE TRIED TURNING THE CAR OFF BUT THE WHEEL WAS STILL SHAKING. SO AFTER I HAD TO TAKE IT BACK DOWN TO PORTER HYUNDAI TODAY, THEY HAVE YET TO GET BACK WITH ME ABOUT THE MATTER. *TR
Structure, Engine, Dec 6, 2013, fire
ON THANKSGIVING EVENING NOVEMBER 28, 2013 @ 7:30 PM, MY 2011 HYUNDAI SONATA THAT I PURCHASED NEW, CAUGHT FIRE ON I 95 WHILE DRIVING IT. THE CAR HAS ONLY 30,350 MILES AND IS PROPERLY MAINTAINED AND GARAGE KEPT. THE VEHICLE HAD THE OIL AND FILTER REPLACED 5 DAYS EARLIER AND THERE ARE NO SIGNS OF ANY FLUIDS LEAKING IN THE GARAGE. THERE WERE NO WARNING LIGHTS THAT CAME ON AND THE TEMPERATURE GAUGE READ AS NORMAL UNTIL JUST BEFORE THE ENGINE SHUT OFF (THEN ALL THE DASH LIGHTS CAME ON) AND WE PULLED OVER ONTO THE SHOULDER OF A BUSY HIGHWAY AT NIGHT. I RAISED THE HOOD, SMOKE POURED OUT AND I COULD SEE SMALL FLAMES UNDER THE ENGINE. MINUTES LATER THE FLAMES WERE 20 FEET HIGH AND THE ENTIRE CAR BURNED UNTIL FIRE TRUCKS AND POLICE ARRIVED ON THE SCENE. THE VEHICLE IS A TOTAL LOSS. *TR
Steering, Suspension, Engine, Dec 6, 2013
I BOUGHT MY 2011 HYUNDAI SONATA BACK IN FEBRUARY 2012 FROM ENTERPRISE CAR SALES AND EVER SINCE I BOUGHT IT I BEEN HEARING A KNOCKING SOUND IN THE FRONT END OF MY CAR WHILE IM DRIVING FROM MAYBE 10MPH TO 40MPH. BUT ON THE HIGHWAY WHEN I REACH SPEEDS OVER 50MPH I DON'T HEAR ANYTHING. I HAVE TAKEN IT TO THE DEALER NUMEROUS OF TIMES I HAVE HAD CERTIFIED MECHANICS CHECK IT AND THEY TOLD ME IT COULD BE ONE OF THE MOTOR MOUNTS BUT THE DEALER NEVER WANTED TO CHANGE IT THEY KEPT TELLING ME THE CAR WAS FINE. NOW ITS GOING TO BE A YEAR LATER AND MY CAR HAS THAT SAME KNOCKING SOUND IN THE FRONT BUT NOW ITS EXTREMELY LOUD. I CAN FEEL THE KNOCKING THROUGH THE STEERING TOO SO NOW I DON'T KNOW WHAT TO DO. *TR
Steering, Engine, Dec 5, 2013
I AM REPORTING A THIRD INCIDENT THAT OCCURRED AFTER THE DATE OF THE EARLIER TWO INCIDENTS I PREVIOUSLY REPORTED IN MY EARLIER COMPLAINTS. AFTER THE PREVIOUS INCIDENT, HYUNDAI BURLINGAME (1025 ROLLINS ROAD, BURLINGAME, CA 94010), INSTALLED A NEW ENGINE AND INSTALLED A NEW FUEL INTAKE VALVE. ON OCTOBER 19, 2013, THE SECOND REPAIR WORK WAS COMPLETED AND I PICKED UP THE CAR. ON DECEMBER 4, 2013, I WAS DRIVING THE CAR ON US 101, NORTHBOUND TRAVELING APPROXIMATELY 70 MPH WHEN THE CAR BEGAN TO MAKE LOUD CLANGING NOISES AND VIOLENTLY SHAKE AND SHUDDER AND THE ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON. I WAS ABLE TO PULL OFF THE HIGHWAY JUST AS THE CAR AGAIN EXPERIENCED A CATASTROPHIC ENGINE FAILURE. AS THE ENGINE FAILED, THE POWER TO THE STEERING WENT OUT AND THIS MADE THE CAR DIFFICULT TO MANEUVER. THE CAR WAS TOWED TO HYUNDAI BURLINGAM AND IS AWAITING REPAIR. *TR
Suspension, Structure, Dec 4, 2013
A WELD HOLDING THE FRONT SUBFRAME ASSEMBLY TO THE MAIN FRAME FAILED, ALLOWING THE SUBFRAME TO SEPARATE FROM THE FRAME. THIS STRESS CAUSED THE SWAY BAR LINK END TO BREAK, CAUSING REDUCED CORNERING STABILITY, TRACTION, AND A LOUD THUMPING SOUND WHEN THE CAR EXPERIENCES WEIGHT SHIFTS TO THE LEFT FRONT WHEEL. THE SERVICING DEALER INFORMS ME THE CAR IS UNSAFE TO DRIVE IN ITS CURRENT CONDITION. *TR
Exterior lighting, Vehicle speed control, Dec 3, 2013
WHILE DRIVING AT 65MPH ON HIGHWAY, THERE WAS A SUDDEN LOSS OF ACCELERATION. IT WAS AS IF I HAD LET GO OF THE GAS PEDAL. OF COURSE THE PEDAL WAS AT THE SAME POSITION AND DID NOT CHANGE. I LET GO OF THE PEDAL AND REPRESSED IT AND NOTICED THAT I GOT MY POWER BACK. IT DOES THIS INTERMITTENTLY FOR THE LAST TWO MONTHS.NO CODE ERRORS APPEARING ON DASH OR OBD READING. WILL HAPPEN AT ANY GIVEN SPEED. OTHER ISSUE IS THE DRIVER SIDE BREAK LIGHT WILL WORK FOR A FEW WEEKS AND THEN BURN OUT, IN WHICH IT WILL LEAVE THE REMAINING CENTER AND PASSENGER BRAKE LIGHT PERMANENTLY ON WHILE THE HEADLIGHTS ARE TURNED ON. SO IT APPEARS THAT I AM BREAKING BUT I AM NOT. ONLY TEMPORARY FIX IS TO REMOVE THE LEFT BULB FROM ITS SOCKET. *TR
Service brakes, Hydraulic, Electrical system, Exterior lighting, Dec 1, 2013
HYUNDAI SONATA 2011 PUSH BUTTON START. I AM THE ORIGINAL OWNER OF THE VEHICLE. YESTERDAY I WENT INTO MY CAR AND PROCEEDED TO START MY CAR. I HAD TO PUSH THE START BUTTON THREE TIMES BEFORE IT ACTUALLY STARTED UP. THIS HAPPENED TWICE WITHIN 2 HOURS. 5 DAYS PRIOR MY VEHICLE HAD BEEN TO THE HYUNDAI DEALERSHIP FOR THE RECALL ON THE STOP LAMP SWITCH. AN EXISTING RECALL (NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 13V113000) INDICATES THAT FOR THE 2011 HYUNDAI SONATA THE STOP LAMP SWITCH MAY NOT FUNCTION CORRECTLY. THEY, THE DEALERSHIP,PERFORMED THE SERVICE AND REPLACED THE STOPLAMP SWITCH. AS RESULT MY CAR IS EXPERIENCING INTERMITTENT SWITCH POINT CONTACT WITH THE PUSH-BUTTON START. THIS IS CRAZY. *TR
Exterior lighting, Dec 1, 2013
NOV. 21, 1013 EXTERIOR LIGHTING TAIL LIGHT. I AM THE ORIGINAL OWNER OF A 2011 HYUNDAI SONATA (APPROX 28,000 MILES). I WALKED OUT TO MY PARKED CAR AND NOTICED THAT THE DRIVERS SIDE REAR TAIL LIGHT WAS HANGING BY SOME WIRES. I HAD PASSENGERS IN THE CAR AND THERE WAS NO IMPACT , ACCIDENT, OR ANYTHING ELSE TO CAUSE THE TAIL LIGHT TO POP OFF AND HANG BY SOME THREADS. UPON FURTHER INSPECTION I COULD SEE THAT THE PLASTIC STUDS WERE BROKE AND THE METAL STUD WAS DETACHED OR NEVER ATTACHED. THE FOLLOWING DAY I TOOK IT TO THE LAGUNA NIGUEL HYUNDAI DEALERSHIP THAT I PURCHASED IT FROM. ONE THE SERVICE ADVISORS ,346, CAME OUT AND LOOKED AT THE TAIL LIGHT. .HE SAW PLASTIC PIECES AROUND THE SCREWS THAT WERE CRACKED AND BROKEN OFF WHICH CAUSED THE TAIL LIGHT TO DISLODGE AND FALL OFF. HE SAID THAT I WAS FAULT AND HE WROTE ME AN ESTIMATE FOR $248.00. I AM OBVIOUSLY NOT AT FAULT. THE DEALERSHIP TAPED THE TAIL LIGHT ONTO THE BODY FRAME. I WAS VERY LUCKY THAT THE TAIL LIGHT DID NOT FALL OFF ,I DID NOT CAUSE AN ACCIDENT, IT WAS RAINING, AND THAT I WAS NOT PULLED OVER BY THE POLICE. I PHONED HYUNDAI TO FILE A CASE. I RECEIVED A PHONE CALL FROM THE DEALERSHIP ON 11/28/13. I WAS TOLD TO BRING THE CAR IN SO THAT THE SERVICE MANGER, [XXX] COULD LOOK AT THE CAR (VERY IN CONVENIENT, THE CAR HAD BEEN AT THEIR DEALERSHIP 3 DAYS PRIOR FOR SEVERAL HOURS WHILE THEY SERVICED 3 MORE RECALLS FOR THIS VEHICLE). [XXX] BASICALLY DID NOTHING EXCEPT WALK OUT TO THE CAR. HE DID NOT TAKE THE TAPE OFF TO INSPECT THE PROBLEM. HE TOLD ME THAT HE HAD BEEN TOUCH WITH HYUNDAI. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR
Engine, Nov 26, 2013
NO OIL IN THE ENGINE. NO INDICATION OF OIL LEAKAGE. NO LOW OIL PRESSURE OR LOW OIL LIGHT INDICATING THERE WAS A PROBLEM WITH LOW OIL. THE HYUNDAI DEALERSHIP HAS TOLD ME I NEED A NEW ENGINE. THE WAS NO INDICATION THAT THERE WAS A PROBLEM WITH THE CAR UNTIL THE CAR SUDDENLY STOPPED FUNCTIONING. THIS IS A PROBLEM WITH THIS AUTOMOBILE. I'VE SEEN THE SAME TYPE OF COMPLAINTS ON THE INTERNET. THE HYUNDAI SONATA SHOULD BE RECALLED TO FIX THE MALFUNCTIONING WARNING SYSTEM INDICATING THAT THERE IS A PROBLEM WITH LOW OIL PRESSURE OR LOW OIL LEVEL. *TR
Visibility, Nov 21, 2013
I WAS DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY HEARD WHAT SOUND LIKE AN EXPLOSION. ALMOST WRECK THE VEHICLE FROM THE NOISE IT MADE. MY CHILDREN STARTED TO SCREAM AND CRY. THEN I HEARD GLASS FLYING OFF MY CAR. PULLED OVER TO SEE THE SUNROOF WAS SHATTERED INTO A MILLIONS PIECES. I CALL HYUNDAI AND WAS TOLD THE ONLY SUNROOF RECALL THEY HAVE IS FOR THE VELOSTER WHICH FROM WHAT I WAS TOLD WAS THE SAME THING THAT HAPPENED TO ME. I HAVE NOT RECEIVED A CALL BACK FROM THE DEALERSHIP IN REGARDS TO MY CONCERNS ABOUT THIS ISSUE. *TR
Electrical system, Nov 17, 2013
WHILE DRIVING TO WORK MY INSTRUMENT PANEL AND GAUGES STARTED FLASHING, MY SPEEDOMETER AND RPM ODOMETER WOULD "JUMP" FROM 0 RPM AND 0 MPH TO 2500 RPM AND 70 MPH "BOUNCING" BETWEEN THOSE READINGS. THERE HAD BEEN A RECALL ON THE STOP LAMP SO I TOOK MY CAR IN TO GET THIS REPLACED EXPLAINING WHAT MY CAR AS DOING. THE HYUNDAI DEALER "CONFIRMED" THAT THIS ISSUE WAS THE CAUSE. AFTER HAVING THE STOP LAMP REPLACED IT DID NOT DO IT AGAIN FOR A FEW MONTHS. ON 10/29/2013, 10/30/2013 AND 11/01/2013 IT BEGAN TO DO THE EXACT SAME THING. WHEN I TOOK IT BACK IN THEY RAN A DIAGNOSTIC COSTING ME $100 DOLLARS, WHICH THEY THEN "INFORMED" ME THAT IT WAS THE INSTRUMENT CLUSTER. SO I SPENT $1377 TO REPLACE IT (OF COURSE I WAS 2,000 MILES OUTSIDE OF THE WARRANTY AT THIS POINT AS MY HUSBAND DID NOT THINK IT NECESSARY TO GET THE EXTENDED ONE WHEN WE PURCHASED IT), I FINALLY GOT MY CAR BACK ON WEDNESDAY 11/13/2013 AND IT SEEMED FINE UNTIL TODAY 11/17/2013 WHEN IT STARTED DOING IT AGAIN. NOT ONLY DID I HAVE TO DEAL WITH A COMPLETE LACK OF PROFESSIONALISM FROM THE DEALERSHIP BUT MY CAR IS STILL NOT FIXED. *TR
Power train, Nov 15, 2013
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 HYUNDAI SONATA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE TRANSMISSION CAUSED THE VEHICLE TO JERK AND EXHIBIT A LOUD BANGING NOISE WHEN DRIVING VARIOUS SPEEDS. THE DEALER PERFORMED A DIAGNOSTIC AND STATED THAT THE TRANSMISSION NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED AND ADVISED THAT THE TRANSMISSION COULD BE REPLACED UNDER WARRANTY WITH A REFURBISH TRANSMISSION. THE TRANSMISSION WAS NOT REPLACED. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 41,500.
Engine, Nov 13, 2013
THE CAR WOULD NOT START, BATTERY IS THREE WEEKS OLD. THE CAR WAS BROUGHT IN TO THE DEALERSHIP BY TOW AND WAS REPAIRED AND RETURNED TO ME ON 11/11/2013. I WAS TOLD AT THE TIME THAT IT WASN'T THE STARTER,IT WAS THE STARTER LEVER. THE EVENING OF 11/11/2013 THE CAR WOULDN'T START ON THE FIRST TRY , BUT DID AFTER THE SECOND. ON 11/12/13 THE CAR FAILED TO START UNTIL THE FOURTH TRY. I CALLED AND THE DEALER SAID TO BRING IT BACK IN, I DID ON THE MORNING OF 11/13/13, IN PREPARING TO LEAVE FOR THE DEALERSHIP FROM MY WORK LOCATION THE CAR AGAIN FAILED TO START THREE TIMES AND FINALLY STARTED ON THE FOURTH TRY. NO CAR IN MY FAMILY HAS EVER HAD A STARTER ISSUE LIKE THIS IN A CAR THAT IS LESS THEN THREE YEARS OLD. *TR
Wheels, Service brakes, Nov 12, 2013
PURCHASED 2011 SONATA GLS NEW N JULY 2010. WITH 40,000 MILES ON THE CAR, NOW IT MAKES STRANGE BANGING, METAL ON METAL, SOMETHING LOOSE SOUND FROM FRONT PASSENGER SIDE OF THE CAR WHEN BRAKING. THIS SOUND IS MUCH LOUDER WHEN MAKING HARD LEFT TURN, LIKE GETTING OUT OF A SHOPPING CENTER TO BUSY ROAD TO TAKE A LEFT TURN. WILL TAKE IT TO THE DEALERSHIP AND SEE WHAT THEY SAY. I WASN'T EXPECTING THIS KIND OF ISSUE ONLY AFTER 3 YEARS AND AROUND 40,000 MILES. *TR
Steering, Nov 4, 2013
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 HYUNDAI SONATA. THE CONTACT STATED STATED THAT WHILE TURNING AT VARIOUS SPEEDS, HE HEARD A KNOCKING SOUND. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER WHERE WHO STATED THE STEERING COLUMN NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED ABOUT THE FAILURE AND INFORMED THE CONTACT THAT THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER 10V457000 (STEERING). THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 64,000.
Exterior lighting, Nov 3, 2013
IN APRIL 2013 I DROVE FROM SUFFERN,NY TO BRIDGEWATER,NJ;I SET THE ALARM AND WENT INSIDE. TWENTY MINUTES LATER, I WENT BACK OUTSIDE ONLY TO DISCOVER THE TAILLIGHT ON THE PASSENGER SIDE HANGING OUT BY THE WIRES. NOONE WAS HOME IN AREA AND THERE WERE NO MARKS ON THE CAR- MY ALARM NEVER WENT OFF A YEAR PRIOR (NOT SURE OF THE EXACT DATE) IN A PARKING LOT =WHEN I WENT INTO A BUILDING TO PLAY BINGO, THE TAILLIGHT WAS FINE WHEN I RETURNED TO THE CAR A FEW HOURS LATER THE TAILLIGHT ON THE DRIVER SIDE WAS HANGING OUT (AGAIN HANGING BY THE WIRES) BOTH TIMES I BROUGHT MY CAR TO HYUNDAI BECAUSE I FELT IT WAS A DEFECT IN THE CAR BUT THEY INSISTED IT WAS VANDALISM AND MADE ME PAY APPROX. $300 TO GET A NEW ONE. THERE IS NO WAY SOMEONE COULD TAKE THIS TAILLIGHT OUT WITH NOT ONE MARK ON THE CAR AND IT NEVER CAUSED MY ALARM TO GO OFF. HYUNDAI INSISTED BECAUSE INSIDE THE SCREWS WERE BROKEN TO HOLD IT IN,' THAT IT HAD TO BE VANDALISM AND REFUSED TO DO ANYTHING FOR ME=I EVEN CALLED THE CORPORATE OFFICE.' IF YOU DO A SEARCH OF HYUNDAI SONATA 2011 HANGING TAILLIGHTS, LOTS OF SITES WITH COMPLAINTS.THIS IS A DEFECT IN THIS MODEL OF THE CAR AND NEEDS TO BE REPAIRED AND RECALLED.IT IS VERY DANGEROUS, MINE FELL OUT WHILE PARKED BUT MANY OTHERS FELL OUT WHILE DRIVING AT HIGH SEEDS AND COULD HAVE CAUSED SEVERE ACCIDENTS.I CANT AFFORD TO FIX THE 2ND SIDE AND HAVE IT TAPED INTO PLACE- I SHOULD GET REFUNDED FOR WHAT I PAID FOR THE FIRST SIDE.HERE ARE LINKS TO SITES WITH OTHER COMPLAINTS. HTTP://WWW.CARPROBLEMZOO.COM/HYUNDAI/SONATA/2011/TAIL-LIGHT-SWITCH-PROBLEMS.PHP HTTP://WWW.CARCOMPLAINTS.COM/HYUNDAI/SONATA/2011/LIGHTS/EXTERIOR_LIGHTING.SHTML HTTP://WWW.ARFC.ORG/COMPLAINTS/2011/HYUNDAI/SONATA/EXTERIOR_LIGHTING/PROBLEM.ASPX PLEASE LOOK INTO THIS, TONS OF COMPLAINTS AND NOT OUR FAULT BUT THEY ARE NOT DOING ANYTHING ABOUT IT. IT NEEDS TO BE RECALLED. OTHER THINGS WRONG WITH CAR BUT THIS IS WORST. *TR
Exterior lighting, Oct 31, 2013
THE PASSENGER REAR TAIL LIGHT FELL OUT OF THE HOUSING UNIT. THERE WAS NO NOISE OR ISSUE BEFORE HAND & IT WASN'T NOTICED UNTIL I CAME TO A COMPLETE STOP AT MY DESTINATION WHERE I SAW IT HANGING ALONG THE SIDE OF THE CAR. I PUSHED IT BACK INFO THE HOUSING UNIT AS FIRMLY AS I COULD AND CONTINUED INTO MY APPOINTMENT. UPON LEAVING, I INSTINCTIVELY LOWERED MY SPEED TO 45-50 MPH WHEN I HEARD A THUD ABOUT 20 MILES FROM WHERE I FIRST NOTICED IT HAD FALLEN OUT. THE TOTAL UNIT HAD THEN BROKE LOOSE FROM THE HOUSING, THE WIRING CAME UNDONE & THE LIGHT FIXTURE CRASHED INTO THE HIGHWAY (60 MPH SPEED LIMIT) WHERE THE AUTOMOBILE BEHIND ME HAD TO SWERVE TO AVOID THE FIXTURE HITTING HIS VEHICLE, AS IT BOUNCED AROUND ON THE PAVEMENT BECAUSE OF THE DROPPING. *TR
Structure, Oct 29, 2013
I PURCHASED THE CAR IN MARCH 2011. INAPRIL,2011 THE FRONT BUMPER CAME OFF THE CLIP AND I HAVE TO REPLACE THE BUMPER AT COST OF $ 1000. SUBSEQUENTLY, THIS HAS HAPPENED TWICE REQUIRING REPLACEMENT OF FRONT BUMPER. THE CAR IS DESIGNED WITH FRONT END VERY LOW AND THE BUMPER IS HOLD BY A SINGLE CLIP WHICH MAKES IT EASIER FOR IT TO COME OFF EVEN WHEN CAR IS BEING PARKED AND IF IT HITS PARKING CEMENT MARKER. HYUNDAI DEALER REFUSES TO FIX PROBLEM UNDER WARRANTY AND SO FAR I HAVE SPENT $3000. *TR