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.
Tires, Wheels, Sep 28, 2012
AT APROX 16,000 MILES THE ORIGINAL KUHMO TIRES BECAME CUPPED ON THE INSIDE OF THE TIRE AND BECAME INCREASINGLY LOUD OVER THE NEXT 12 MONTHS. AT 30,000 MILES THE TIRES HAD TO BE REPLACED DUE TO EXCESSIVE TIRE NOISE. TIRES STILL HAS ANOTHER 25,000 MILE LIFE ON THEM BUT COULD NO LONGER BE USED. VEHICLES ALIGNMENT WAS CHECK 4 TIMES, TIRES ROTATED AND BALANCED. ALIGNMENT SHOWS NEGATIVE 5.1 DEGREES CASTER ON LEFT FRONT, WITH NO WAY TO ADJUST. HYUNDAI AMERICA WA NOTIFIED AND A CASE WAS OPENED BUT THEY REFUSED TO DO ANYTHING OR TO ACKNOWLEDGE THE PROBLEM. *TR
Power train, Fuel/propulsion system, Sep 28, 2012
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 HYUNDAI SONATA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING, THE VEHICLE HESITATED TO ACCELERATE AS THE CONTACT DEPRESSED THE ACCELERATION PEDAL. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER INSPECTION WHERE IT WAS ADVISED THAT THERE WAS A FAILURE WITH THE FUEL PUMP. THE FUEL PUMP WAS REPLACED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE SURGED WHEN DRIVING AND PULLED TO ONE SIDE ABNORMALLY. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO DEALER WHO STATED THAT THE TRANSMISSION NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 22,000 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 28,710.
Tires, Sep 19, 2012
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 HYUNDAI SONATA EQUIPPED WITH KUMHO SOLUS KH25 TIRES, SIZE: P205 65 R16. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE TRAVELING 45 MPH, A ROTARY NOISE EMITTED FROM ALL FOUR TIRES. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER WHO CONFIRMED THAT ALL FOUR TIRES WERE CUPPED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 16,616 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 16,649.
Exterior lighting, Sep 10, 2012
MANY OTHER BUYERS OF THIS VEHICLE HAVE COMPLAINED SAME ISSUE. TAILS LIGHTS ARE FALLING OUT ON THEIR OWN WITHOUT ANY IMPACT. IT SEEMS THAT PLASTIC STUDS HOLDING LIGHTS IN PLACE ARE CRACKING OFF. THERE ARE FOUR STUDS THAT METAL SCREWS ARE HOLDING LIGHT ON BY. HYUNDAI IS NOT HONORING THIS AS A WARRANTY, THIS IS A DANGEROUS SITUATION BECAUSE ONE DRIVER HAD HIS LIGHT POP OUT DRIVING ON HIGHWAY. *TR
Engine, Sep 8, 2012
CAR IS NOT STARTING WITH PUSH BUTTON START AND DEPRESSING THE BRAKE. IT TAKES SEVERAL TRIES FOR IT TO FINALLY START. IT IS INTERMITTENT, SOMETIMES STARTS UP RIGHT AWAY, OTHER TIMES IT DOESN'T. *TR
Steering, Suspension, Sep 8, 2012
VEHICLE PULLS TO RIGHT SIDE ALL THE TIME BROUGHT TO DEALER DID RECALL FOR PULLING FRONT STRUTS WHEEL ALIGNMENT REPLACED L/FRONT STRUT AGAIN AND WHEEL ALIGNMENT CAR STILL PULLS TO RIGHT. *TR
Service brakes, Sep 6, 2012
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 HYUNDAI SONATA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 75 MPH, THE VEHICLE STALLED WITHOUT WARNING. THE CONTACT WAS ABLE TO RESTART THE VEHICLE AS THE VEHICLE FUNCTIONED NORMALLY. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER FOR INSPECTION WHERE THEY STATED THAT THE BRAKE SWITCH NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED BUT THE FAILURE RECURRED SPORADICALLY. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 24,000.
Electrical system, Sep 4, 2012
THIS IS THE THIRD TIME THAT I HAVE GONE TO START THE CAR AND IT FAILED TO START BECAUSE OF A DEFECTIVE BRAKE PEDAL SENSOR. THE SENSOR HAS BEEN REPLACED TWICE NOW. THE SECOND INCIDENT DID NOT LEAVE ANY CODES FOR THE DEALERSHIP TO FIND A PROBLEM DUE TO THE BATTERY BEING DISCONNECTED. THIS APPEARS TO BE A KNOWN PROBLEM FOR THIS MODEL. *TR
Exterior lighting, Electronic stability control (ESC), Aug 31, 2012
I HAVE A 2011 HYUNDAI SONATA. I HAD MY BRAKE PEDAL STOPLIGHT SWITCH REPLACED A FEW DAYS AGO BY A HYUNDAI DEALER, WHICH WAS COVERED UNDER THE MANUFACTURER'S WARRANTY. HOWEVER, IN DOING RESEARCH ON THIS REPLACEMENT, I HAVE FOUND THAT THIS IS A COMMON PROBLEM OF HYUNDAI SONATA OWNERS AND IT WOULD SEEM THAT HYUNDAI HAS NOT CORRECTED THIS ISSUE OTHER THEN TO REPLACE THE OEM SWITCH WHEN IT FAILS. BASED UPON WHAT I HAVE READ, I THEREFORE EXPECT THAT THIS REPLACEMENT WILL FAIL AGAIN SOMETIME IN THE FUTURE AND PROBABLY AT AN INOPPORTUNE TIME. SINCE IT TAKES ONLY A FEW MOMENTS TO REPLACE THE SWITCH, SOME HYUNDAI OWNERS THAT HAVE HAD MULTIPLE FAILURES HAVE GONE AS FAR AS CARRYING A SPARE SWITCH IN THEIR GLOVE COMPARTMENT IN CASE THE SWITCH FAILS AGAIN AND THEY ARE EITHER OUT OF WARRANTY OR NOT NEAR A DEALER. THE SAFETY ISSUE REVOLVES AROUND THE FAILURE OF THIS SWITCH WHICH RESULTS IN THE BRAKE LIGHTS NOT BEING OPERABLE AND THE POSSIBILITY OF OTHER SAFETY SYSTEMS BEING AFFECTED TOO, I.E. TRACTION CONTROL AND ABS. IF THIS SWITCH FAILURE OCCURS WITH THE VEHICLE IN PARK, THE GEARSHIFT LEVER CANNOT BE MOVED. IF THIS FAILURE WAS A "ONCE IN A LIFETIME" FAILURE, IT WOULD NOT BE THAT MUCH OF AN ISSUE. BUT AGAIN, THAT DOES NOT SEEM TO BE THE CASE AND RESEARCH OF HYUNDAI'S REPAIR RECORDS OR STATEMENTS MADE BY OWNERS OF THESE CARS SHOULD BARE THAT OUT. THE ORIGINAL OEM SWITCH PART IS #93810-3S000. AN ALLEGED UPDATE MAY BE PART # 93810-3K000 BUT THIS PART CAN NOT BE INSTALLED IN THE VEHICLES HAVING THE ORIGINAL PART AND HYUNDAI HAS NOT MADE A RETRO INSTALLATION POSSIBLE IF THIS "K" SWITCH IS INDEED AN UPDATED REPLACEMENT. I FEEL THAT HYUNDAI SHOULD ADDRESS THIS ISSUE AND PRODUCE A RETRO FIT FOR THIS SAFETY RELATED BRAKE SWITCH SINCE IT SEEMS TO BE A CONSTANT ISSUE THAT NEEDS ATTENTION DUE TO THE FAILURE OF THE SWITCH WHICH THEN CAUSES, AT THE VERY LEAST, INOPERABLE BRAKE LIGHTS. *TR
Power train, Electrical system, Exterior lighting, Aug 28, 2012
MY SKID LIGHT WARNING LIGHT KEPT COMING ON. THEY SAID A BRAKE LAMP SWITCH WAS PULLING A FAULT CODE, SO THEY REPLACED IT. NINE MONTHS LATER MY SKID LIGHT WARNING WAS RANDOMLY COMING ON AGAIN. THEY RAN A TEST AGAIN SAYING IT WAS A FAULTY BRAKE LAMP SWITCH AGAIN. BEFORE I COULD GET IT IN FOR REPAIRS THE TRANSMISSION RANGE SENSOR MALFUNCTION ON AUG 14 2012. PICKED UP MY CAR AGAIN AND THE SKID TRACTION WARNING LIGHT CAME ON AGAIN. I TOOK IT IN AGAIN THIS TIME THE TCS LIGHT WAS ON AND THE SHIFTER WAS NOT RELEASING.THEY TESTED THE BRAKE SWITCH CIRCUIT AND FOUND NO POWER TO THE BRAKE SWITCH. THEY REPLACED THE FUSE BOX AND HARNESS CABLE. I HAVE CALLED THREE DIFFERENT DEALERSHIPS SERVICE DEPARTMENTS AND THEY ALL SAY THERE IS A PROBLEM WITH THE BRAKE LAMP SWITCH CAUSING THE TCS WARNING LIGHT TO COME ON. IF IT IS EFFECTING OTHER CARS THERE MOST BE A NATIONAL PROBLEM AND SHOULD BE A RECALL BEFORE THERE IS A FATALITY. I HAVE HAD THIS CAR FOR 2 YEARS NOW AND HAD IT IN FOR ELECTRICAL PROBLEMS OVER EIGHT TIMES. *TR
Exterior lighting, Aug 27, 2012
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 HYUNDAI SONATA. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 65 MPH THE DRIVER SIDE TAIL LIGHT UNIT DETACHED FROM THE VEHICLE. THE PASSENGER SIDE TAIL LIGHT UNIT WAS ALSO LOOSE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO THE DEALER FOR DIAGNOSTICS. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 38,000.
Electrical system, Aug 26, 2012
VEHICLE ENGINE WAS SHUT OFF IN A CONSTRUCTION ZONE, WAITING FOR LINE TO MOVE. ENGINE (PUSH BUTTON START) WOULD NOT ENGAGE, THUS CAUSING MAJOR TRAFFIC ISSUES. EVERYTHING DONE ACCORDING TO MANUAL TRYING TO GET STARTER TO ENGAGE. ENGINE STARTER FINALLY ENGAGED AFTER SETTING FOR SOMETIME. THIS IS THE THIRD OCCURRENCE OF THIS SAME PROBLEM. SUSPECT LINKAGE BETWEEN BRAKE SENSOR AND START BUTTON. COULD BE A SERIOUS SAFETY ISSUE. *TR
Steering, Seats, Aug 23, 2012
THE PASSAGE SEAT SHAKES WHEN THE CAR REACHES 70MPH. SINCE BRINGING IT TO THE DEALER IN MAY IT HAS BEEN THERE 2 MORE TIMES, THE SECOND TIME THEY ACTUALLY SAW WHAT THEY CALL A VIBRATION. NOW THE PASSENGER SEAT, DRIVERS SEAT, STEERING WHEEL, AND CONSOLE ALL SHAKE, NOT VIBRATE AT 40MPH. HYUNDAI HAS HAD MY CAR FOR 3 DAYS AND EVERY TIME I CALL FOR A STATUS CHECK THEY HAVE SOME EXCUSE. THIS IS WHY I DID NOT LIST THE VIN NUMBER BECAUSE THE CAR IS NOT IN MY POSSESSION. JUST AN FYI: THERE IS NO PROBLEM MECHANICALLY WITH THE WHEELS, TIRE ROD, ETC. EVERYTHING HAS BEEN CHECKED BUT THE CAR STILL SHAKES. *TR
Wheels, Aug 21, 2012
THIS PROBLEM HAS NOT HAPPENED BUT CAN AND PROBABLY HAPPENED TO SOME OTHER OWNER. THERE IS NO SPARE TIRE JUST AN INFLATION KIT WHICH IS USELESS IF THERE IS DAMAGE TO THE SIDE WALL OR RIM. I AM TOLD THAT I CAN CALL FOR HELP AND BE TOWED TO A DEALER IF THAT HAPPENS. THERE ARE NUMEROUS PLACES IN THIS COUNTRY THAT CELL PHONE SERVICE IS NOT AVAILABLE. IN THE EVENT OF THIS HAPPENING I COULD BE STRANDED ON A RURAL ROAD, IN THE MIDDLE OF THE NIGHT WITH NO WAY TO GET HELP. WITH A MOUNTABLE SPARE I COULD GET TO A SAFE PLACE. THIS SITUATION IS NOT SAFE FOR ANYONE THAT TRAVELS TO UNPOPULATED AREAS IN THIS COUNTRY. *TR
Exterior lighting, Aug 20, 2012
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 HYUNDAI SONATA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE REAR BRAKE LIGHT ASSEMBLY DETACHED FROM THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT WAS ENTERING A RESIDENTIAL DRIVEWAY WHEN THE FAILURE OCCURRED. THE ENTIRE LIGHT FIXTURE WAS DETACHED FROM THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER DID PROVIDE ANY ASSISTANCE OR INFORMATION IN REGARDS TO A REMEDY FOR THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE AND THE CURRENT MILEAGES WERE 50,000.
Electrical system, Exterior lighting, Aug 10, 2012
CAR WILL NOT START! HYUNDAI REPLACED THE BRAKE SWITCH AND NOW IT IS HAPPENING AGAIN. THIS HAPPENS A COUPLE TIMES PER WEEK. THIS WILL BE MY SECOND VISIT TO HYUNDAI. THIS SHOULD BE A RECALL! WE COULD BE WITHOUT NECESSARY TRANSPORTATION. *TR
Exterior lighting, Aug 10, 2012
I WAS DRIVING OVER THE BRIDGE WHEN I HEARD NOISES FROM THE REAR OF MY CAR . THE CAR BEHIND ME WAS HONKING. WHEN I WAS ABLE TO PULL OVER I SAW MY TAILLIGHT WAS HANGING ON BY WIRES. *TR
Exterior lighting, Aug 8, 2012
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 HYUNDAI SONATA. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 30 MPH, THE CONTACT NOTICED POOR ILLUMINATION OF THE HEADLIGHTS. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER FOR DIAGNOSTICS WHERE THE TECHNICIAN INSPECTED THE VEHICLE AND ADVISED THE CONTACT THAT THE HEADLIGHTS WERE PERFORMING AS DESIGNED. THE DEALER ALSO ADVISED THE CONTACT TO ACTIVATE THE FOG LIGHTS, WHICH SHOULD ASSIST WITH ILLUMINATING THE ROADWAY. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 4,500.
Steering, Suspension, Aug 1, 2012
FROM THE INITIAL TEST DRIVE I NOTICED A PULL IN THE STEERING. IT WAS MENTIONED AND I WAS TOLD THAT IT WAS A SIMPLE ALIGNMENT ISSUE. AFTER PURCHASED I ASKED ABOUT THE STEERING. UNFORTUNATELY, (I WAS TOLD) THE DEALERSHIP DID NOT HAVE THE ROAD FORCE BALANCE MACHINE FOR THEM TO PROPERLY TEST THE ALIGNMENT. I WAITED TILL NOVEMBER BEFORE THIS WAS AVAILABLE. THE 2011 SONATA WANDERED THE ROAD AND PULLED CONSTANTLY TO ONE SIDE OR THE OTHER (WITH NO RHYME OR REASON). AT ONE POINT IT WOULD PULL SO HARD THE VEHICLE WOULD "V-LINE" OFF ROAD ONCE LETTING GO OF STEERING WHEEL. AFTER SEVERAL REPAIR ATTEMPTS (REPLACED STRUTS, CAMBER BOLT KITS, FRONT TIRES AND SEVERAL ALIGNMENTS) THE PULL WAS STILL THERE. THERE WAS NOTHING MORE HYUNDAI CAN DO AND I WAS TOLD "THAT'S JUST HOW THE CAR IS". I HAVE GONE THROUGH TWO ARBITRATION HEARINGS WITH THE BBB AND HYUNDAI STILL CONTINUES TO SAY "THERE'S NOTHING MORE WE CAN DO, THE CAR IS PERFORMING AS IT IS INTENDED TO". NEGATIVE HYUNDAI!!! THE CAR STILL PULLS AND WANDERS AS IT PLEASES AND I HAVE HAD SWAY BAR LINKS BREAK DURING NORMAL DRIVING CONDITIONS. HYUNDAI IS SAYING I HAVE HIT AN "ANIMAL" AND THE IMPACT HAS BENT BOTH OF THE SWAY BAR LINKS AND BROKE ONE ON THE RIGHT FRONT. ALL THOUGH THERE IS NO BODY DAMAGE FROM THIS ANIMAL AND NO SCRAPES ON THE UNDERCARRIAGE. I NEVER HIT ANYTHING IN THE CAR AND FEEL THIS BREAKAGE IS DUE TO ADDED PRESSURE ON SUSPENSION/STEERING PARTS FROM ADJUSTMENT MADE BY HYUNDAI TO "TRY" AND GET CAR TO DRIVE STRAIGHT. MY WARRANTY HAS BEEN DENIED AND HYUNDAI REFUSES TO MAKE THE REPAIRS. SO DON'T LET THE 10 YEAR/100,000 MILE WARRANTY LET YOU MAKE THE DECISION WHEN BUYING, WHEN THEY CAN DENY YOUR WARRANTY ANYTIME THEY WANT WITH ANY MADE UP EXCUSE. I HAVE BEEN FIGHTING FOR WELL OVER 8 MONTHS FOR A REFUND ON THIS CAR AND I'M STILL FIGHTING!! *TR
Exterior lighting, Jul 24, 2012
I OPENED MY TRUNK AND THE PASSENGERS SIDE TAIL LIGHT WAS BROKEN LOOSE, AND ONLY BEING HELD IN PLACE BY THE WIRES. ALL THE BOLTS THAT FASTEN THE PLASTIC TAIL LIGHT TO THE VEHICLE WERE BROKEN OFF. THERE WAS NO DAMAGE OR IMPACT TO THE LIGHT OR VEHICLE. *TR
Exterior lighting, Jul 20, 2012
AFTER DRIVING DOWN THE INTERSTATE I PULLED UP AT MY HOTEL TO VALET MY CAR. WHEN I WALKED TO THE BACK OF MY CAR I REALIZED THAT MY DRIVER'S SIDE TAIL LIGHT WAS HANGING BY THE WIRES. AFTER FURTHER INSPECTION I WAS ABLE TO DETERMINE THAT ALL OF THE PLASTIC MOUNTING TABS WERE BROKEN. THE DEALERSHIP INDICATED THEY HAD SEEN THIS SAME PROBLEM BEFORE, BUT WOULD NOT REPLACE MINE BECAUSE THE MILEAGE WAS OVER 60K. THIS SHOULD BE A RECALL ITEM IN MY OPINION CONSIDERING BRAKE LIGHTS/ TAIL LIGHTS ARE IMPORTANT TO HAVE! *TR
Electrical system, Jul 20, 2012
THE ENGINE FAILED TO START. WHEN YOU PRESS ON THE START PEDAL, IT LOCKS UP AND DOES NOT RECOGNIZE THE KEY FOB IN THE VEHICLE. THE DEALER SAID THE BRAKE SWITCH NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THIS HAPPENED IN JUNE 2011 AND NOW AGAIN IN JULY 2012. IT LOOKS AS IF I WILL HAVE TO TAKE IT IN EVERY YEAR FOR THE SAME PROBLEM. THE ESC ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL LIGHT COMES ON ALSO DURING THIS ISSUE PERHAPS THE 2 GO HAND IN HAND. THIS IS TOTALLY UNACCEPTABLE AFTER I PAID 25K FOR THIS VEHICLE. NO MORE HYUNDAIS FOR ME AT LEAST NOT IN MY LIFETIME!! *TR
Power train, Jul 19, 2012
I HAVE AN AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION 2011 HYUNDAI SONATA GLS, AND THE CAR SEEMS TO HAVE TROUBLE SHIFTING GEARS. IT DOES NOT HAPPEN ALL THE TIME - MAYBE ABOUT ONCE OR TWICE A WEEK, USUALLY ON MY WAY TO WORK OR COMING HOME FROM WORK. I REVERSE OUT OF MY DRIVEWAY AT HOME AND REVERSE OUT OF MY PARKING SPOT AT WORK. I TURN MY CAR ON AND SHIFT MY CAR INTO REVERSE, I HEAR A THUMP AND A VERY SLIGHT LUNGE WITHOUT EVER TAKING MY FOOT OFF OF THE BRAKE. WHEN I SHIFT IT TO FORWARD DRIVE, IT SHIFTS AS IT SHOULD. THEN, AS I PRESS ON THE GAS PEDAL FROM 0-20 MPH, THE VEHICLE SEEMS TO LURCH INTO THE NEXT GEAR. IT LURCHES AGAIN WHEN I SPEED UP TO 30-40 MPH. AS I TRAVEL ON THE INTERSTATE BETWEEN 40-80 MPH, I CAN FEEL THE CAR LURCH INTO A LOWER AND HIGHER GEARS AS I LET MY FOOT OFF THE GAS PEDAL AND ACCELERATE. IT IS USUALLY TEMPORARILY FIXED BY TURNING THE ENGINE OFF AND THEN BACK ON AGAIN. WHEN I SAY "LURCH", IT FEELS LIKE THE CAR DECREASES SPEED FOR A SPLIT SECOND AND THEN RESUMES PROPER SPEED QUICKLY. IT'S BEEN GOING ON FOR ABOUT THREE OR FOUR MONTHS, BUT SINCE THE WEIRD GEAR SHIFTING HAPPENS SO RARELY, I DIDN'T THINK TO LOOK IT UP AND DO SOME INTERNET RESEARCH UNTIL NOW. IT APPEARS LIKE A GOOD AMOUNT OF PEOPLE ARE HAVING THIS SAME PROBLEM. *TR
Electrical system, Jul 17, 2012, fire
AFTER HAVING THE VEHICLE IDLE FOR APPROXIMATELY 40 MINUTE WITH MY FAMILY INSIDE THE VEHICLE, THE LEFT FRONT SIDE CAUGHT ON FIRE. DAMAGED TO THE LEFT SIDE FOG LIGHT, ENGINE AREA. VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO HYUNDAI SERVICES STATION IN NEW YORK (BRONX SERVICES STATION), AND THEM THE NIGHTMARE STARTED. AFTER 14 DAYS AND MULTIPLE CALLS / VISITS TO THE SERVICES STATION, I WAS NOT GIVING A REASON FOR THE INCIDENT. ALL HYUNDAI DID FOR ME WAS WASTE MY TIME AND EFFORT, THEY DO NOT BACK THAT SO CALL BUMPER TO BUMPER WARRANTY. PS HUYNDAI VEH ENGINEER THAT LOOK AT MY CAR WAS A JOKE, ALL HE DID WAS LOOK AT THE CAR AND STATED "ITS MISSING SOMETHING".HE ALSO REFUSED TO ID HIMSELF... CORPORATE OFFICE WOULD NOT GIVE ANY SOLUTION EXCEPT FOR MY TO GO THRU MY INSURANCE.....DONT BOTHER COMPLAINING JUST GO TO THE MEDIA WITH YOUR ISSUES. *TR
Electrical system, Jul 16, 2012
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 HYUNDAI SONATA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT HE STARTED THE VEHICLE AND THE TIRE PRESSURE MONITORING LIGHT AND AIR BAG LIGHT BOTH ILLUMINATED. THE AIR CONDITIONER ALSO WOULD NOT FUNCTION. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER FOR A DIAGNOSIS AND TRANSMISSION SOFTWARE WAS INSTALLED INTO THE VEHICLE. SHORTLY AFTER THE REPAIR, THE FAILURES BEGAN TO OCCUR AGAIN. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER AGAIN FOR DIAGNOSIS AND THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE ENGINE CONTROL MODULE WAS REPLACED. AFTER THE REPAIR, THE TRACTION CONTROL LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE HAD NOT BEEN REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 15,000 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 33,000.