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.
Engine and engine cooling, Electrical system, Other or unspecified, Sep 25, 2011
I DRIVE THE HYUNDAI SONATA HYBRID. THE FIRST TIME THE PROBLEM OCCURRED AT APPROX 9800 MILES, I WAS DRIVING 60 MPH ON A HIGHWAY WHEN THE VEHICLE LOST BATTERY POWER AND AN ALARM SOUNDED, AND THEN A SIGNAL INDICATING TO "CHECK CHARGING SYSTEM." I IMMEDIATELY TOOK THE VEHICLE TO MY HYUNDAI DEALERSHIP WHERE THEY WERE AWARE OF THE ISSUE, BUT DID NOT KNOW HOW TO FIX IT AND SUGGESTED I JUST SIMPLY TURN OFF AND THEN RESTART MY CAR. IT HAPPENED TWO ADDITIONAL TIMES, ONE WHILE APPROACHING A STOP LIGHT, AND ANOTHER TIME WHILE I WAS STOPPED AT A STOP LIGHT. THE LAST TIME IT HAPPENED, I COULD NOT GET MY VEHICLE TO RESET BY RESTARTING ONCE. I HAD TO SHUT THE VEHICLE OFF, THEN ATTEMPTED SEVERAL TIMES TO RESTART. THE 4TH TIME I TRIED TO START IT, I WAS ABLE TO DO SO SUCESSFULLY. I DID NOTICE THE LAST TIME IT HAPPENED, THE ENGINE LIGHT REMAINED ON EVEN AFTER BATTERY POWER WAS RESTORED. I AM TAKING IT BACK TO THE DEALERSHIP TOMORROW AND DEMANDING A SOLUTION. THIS IS JUST TOO DANGEROUS TO LOSE POWER IN HIGH-SPEED TRAFFIC, AND THE PROBLEM SEEMS TO BE OCCURING AT ALL SPEEDS. *TR
Electrical system, Sep 25, 2011
WHILE DRIVING, A WARNING ALERT SUDDENLY SOUNDED WITH A DISPLAY ADVISING "CHECK CHARGING SYSTEM." THE POWER SYSTEM IN THE CAR FAILED. THE AIR CONDITIONING CUT OFF. THE ACCELERATION SYSTEM FAILED COMPLETELY AND THE CAR CUT OFF ALL PROPULSION. I PULLED OVER AND HAD TO TURN OFF THE IGNITION. I PUSHED THE START BUTTON AGAIN AND THE CAR APPEARED TO WORK. I HAVE READ ONLINE THAT THIS IS HAPPENING TO ALL SONATA HYBRIDS. *TR
Tires, Sep 25, 2011
I HAVE KUMHO TIRES ON A 2011 HYUNDAI SONATA. I CURRENTLY HAVE 25000 MILES ON IT. I HAVE COMPLIED WITH TIRE AND BALANCING MAINTENANCE. THE TIRE NOISE IS SO LOUD IT IS VERY DISTRACTING. I CANNOT CONCENTRATE ON ANYTHING BUT THE NOISE. THE NOISE IS SO LOUD IT IS IMPOSSIBLE TO FULLY FOCUS ON THE ROAD BECAUSE ALL I DO IS FIDGET BECAUSE OF THE ANNOYANCE AND LISTEN TO THIS NOISE. THE NOISE IS ABSOLUTELY DRIVES ME NUTS! IT IS HARD TO CONCENTRATE ON DRIVING WITH THE INSANE TIRE NOISE ALL AROUND ME. AFTER READING SEVERAL SIMILAR COMPLAINTS, I HAVE DECIDED TO SUBMIT MY OWN. *TR
Steering, Sep 22, 2011
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 HYUNDAI SONATA SE. THE CONTACT WAS DRIVING 35 MPH WHEN THE VEHICLE DRIFTED TOWARDS THE LEFT DESPITE THE CONTACT MAINTAINING CONTROL OF THE STEERING WHEEL. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO THE DEALER, BUT THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 200 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 2,600.
Engine and engine cooling, Sep 22, 2011
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 HYUNDAI SONATA. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING 20 MPH THE VEHICLE STALLED. THE VEHICLE WOULD NOT RESTART. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER AND THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE FUEL PUMP FAILED. THE FUEL PUMP WAS REPLACED, BUT THE FAILURE CONTINUED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN BACK TO THE DEALER WHO WAS IN THE PROCESS OF DIAGNOSING THE FAILURE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 8,500.
Engine and engine cooling, Electrical system, Sep 22, 2011
2011 HYUNDAI SONATA HYBRID STOPS LOSES POWER COMES TO COMPLETE STOP - FOR THE THIRD TIME IN TWO MONTHS WHEN I STARTED MY CAR THE SERVICE INDICATOR LIGHT CAME ON AND STAYED ON. I NOTICED THIS TIME THAT THE CAR WOULD NOT GO FASTER THAN 40 MPH AND THE ENGINE IS NOT RUNNING THE CAR APPEARS TO BE RUNNING JUST OFF THE ELECTRIC MOTOR AND THE BATTERY. THE CAR WENT FOR ABOUT 2 MILES AND THE CAR LOST POWER AND CAME TO COMPLETE STOP. I HAD TO COMPLETELY SHUT OFF THE CAR AND RESTART IT BEFORE IT WOULD MOVE AGAIN - THIS IS A RE-OCCURRING AND VERY DANGEROUS SITUATION. *TR
Electrical system, Sep 22, 2011
I AM THE OWNER OF A 2011 HYUNDAI SONATA LIMITED. WITHIN THE LAST 2 WEEKS MY CAR HAS NOT STARTED ON 4 DIFFERENT OCCASIONS. THE MESSAGE SCREEN WITHIN THE CAR SAYS "PRESS BRAKE TO START". IT WILL NOT ALLOW ME TO DEPRESS THE BRAKE PEDDLE. EVERYTHING IN THE CAR AS FAR AS LIGHTS, RADIO, AND DASHBOARD WORK FINE. I HAVE GOT STUCK AT THE LOCAL MALL, THE GROCERY STAR AND AT WORK. I WAS ABLE TO START THE CAR ONE TIME BY SLAMMING MY FOOT DOWN ON THE BRAKE REALLY HARD. (WHICH I SHOULDN'T HAVE TO) THE ELECTRICAL SYSTEM OR BRAKES DEFINITELY HAVE AN ISSUE. HUNDREDS OFF OTHER SONATA OWNERS ARE HAVING THE SAME EXACT ISSUE. NOTHING HAS BEEN DONE TO CORRECT THIS PROBLEM. I DRIVE OVER 100 MILES A DAY AND HAVE TO HAVE A RELIABLE CAR. HYUNDAI NEEDS TO CORRECT THIS ISSUE ASAP. *TR
Engine and engine cooling, Electrical system, Sep 19, 2011
WAS PULLING ON TO A ROAD AND THE ENGINE DID NOT ENGAGE, THE HYBRID SYSTEM",GREEN READY" LIGHT BEGAN BLINKING AND THE YELLOW SERVICE " WITH THE WRENCH " ENGINE LIGHT ALSO CAME ON. I COULD ONLY GET IT UP TO 3 TO 5 MPHS AND THE ECHO GAGE WAS UP TO RED PEGGED OUT,, WE PULLED OUT ON A COUNTY ROAD THAT HAS A SPEED LIMIT OF 45 , A VAN HAD TO STOP, BECAUSE WE PULLED OUT IN FRONT OF HIM, I HAD NO DOUBT THE VEHICLE WOULD GO, BUT IT DID NOT. WE HAD JUST DROVE UP A HILL THAT ALWAYS REQUIRES ENGINE, GRADE STEEP, STOPPED AND PULLED OUT . NEARLY CAUSING AN ACCIDENT. WE PULLED OFF ROAD AND TRIED AGAIN DRIVING IN ELECTRICAL ONLY MODE LIGHT BLINKING WE PULLED BACK OVER AND RESTARTED CAR AND EVERYTHING WAS FINE. IT'S A DANGEROUS PROBLEM THAT NEEDS TO BE ADDRESSED, WHEN I PUSH THE PEDDLE IT SHOULD GO!!! *KB
Steering, Suspension, Wheels, Seats, Sep 19, 2011
PURCHASED CAR ON MAY 10, 2011 AT LOCAL DEALERSHIP. DIDN'T HAVE NEW CAR WINDOW STICKER IN CAR OR AT DEALERSHIP. I WAS TOLD I WASN'T LOOKING HARD ENOUGH FOR IT. DEALERSHIP GOT ME ONE IN JULY. I HAVE PICTURES OF TEST DRIVE WITH NO WINDOW STICKER. FOUND HAIL DAMAGE ON CAR AFTER THE PAPERWORK WHILE STILL AT DEALERSHIP--FINALLY FIXED IN JULY. FOUND OUT WHILE DOING PAPERWORK THE CAR HAD 1500 MILES ON IT--DIDN'T KNOW THAT UNTIL THEN--SHOULD HAVE STOPPED THEN---IN MY BOOK NOT NEW!!!! CAR PULLED TO LEFT REAL HARD ON WAY HOME FROM DEALERSHIP--REALIGNED FRONT END--STILL PULLING LEFT. DEALERSHIP SERVICE DEPT. ADMITS TO RECALL AND DOESN'T HAVE EQUIPMENT/TOOLS TO REPAIR. THE CAR HAD DEEP SCRATCHES ON FRONT PASSENGER SIDE BUMPER AT DELIVERY--FINALLY FIXED SOMEWHAT--YOU CAN STILL FEEL AND SEE THE SCRATCHES IF LOOKING FOR THEM. DRIVERS SEAT FRAYING APART AT MATERIAL AT 2900 MILES. TRIM DAMAGED BY HAIL REPAIR PERSON--STILL WAITING ON THAT REPAIR. JUST LEFT DEALER COMPLAINING TO MANAGER ABOUT EVERYTHING AND FOUND PAINT FLAKING OFF OF REAR DRIVERS WHEEL. STRONG SMELL OF BURNT CHARCOAL COMING FROM TRUNK AREA---MANAGER IN SERVICE DEPT. SAID THAT'S A NORMAL SMELL. I HAVE PURCHASED 5 NEW FROM SAME DEALERSHIP AND NONE OF THE OTHERS HAVE HAD THAT SMELL. I PURCHASED A 2011 TUCSAN THE SAME DAY--NO PROBLEMS. OWNER OF DEALERSHIP SAID THAT THEY ARE ALLOWED TO SELL NEW CARS WITHOUT "NEW CAR WINDOW STICKERS", I LOOKED IT UP--IT'S ILLEGAL. ALSO TOLD THERE WAS COMMUNICATION PROBLEMS ABOUT THE SALE OF MY CAR---NOT TELLING ME EVERYTHING--LIKE THE SCRATCHES, HAIL DAMAGE, REPLACEMENT OF PARTS. THE MANAGER TODAY SAID HE DID NOT KNOW ANYTHING ABOUT THE SONATA'S PULLING TO THE LEFT---I TOLD HIM TO GOOGLE IT. I HAVE NEVER HAD SO MANY PROBLEMS ON A NEW CAR OR EVEN A USED ONE. CURRENT MILEAGE IS 3100 MILES. JUST DID A CARFAX AND FOUND NO REPAIRS FROM DEALER? I GUESS THEY ARE BEYOND THE LAW OF REPORTING IT. *KB
Other or unspecified, Sep 18, 2011
THE FIRST INCIDENT OCCURRED IN A THUNDERSTORM: "CHECK CHARGING SYSTEM" WARNING LIT UP AND ALARM SOUNDED. CAR LOST POWER. HAD TO PULL OFF ON THE SIDE OF THE HIGHWAY. RESTARTED THE CAR AND IT WAS FINE. CALLED DEALERSHIP AND WAS TOLD IT WAS "WATER ON THE SERPENTINE BELT AND NOT TO WORRY ABOUT IT." SECOND INCIDENT WAS APPROX. 1 WEEK LATER WHEN THE "CHECK ENGINE" LIGHT CAME ON ALONG WITH THE "CHECK CHARGING SYSTEM" LIGHT AND ALARM AND CAR LOST POWER. I PULLED OVER ON THE SIDE OF THE HIGHWAY. TURNED CAR OFF AND RESTARTED. THIRD INCIDENT, A COUPLE OF DAYS LATER, "CHECK CHARGING SYSTEM" ALARM. SAME SCENARIO. TOOK TO DEALERSHIP. THEY CONDUCTED A SYSTEM DOWNLOAD TO ONBOARD COMPUTER. NOW IT IS A DAILY OCCURRENCE. COULDN'T GET OUT OF THE DRIVEWAY TODAY AFTER RESTARTING THE CAR 4 TIMES. WILL BE CONTACTING DEALERSHIP TOMORROW. *TT
Engine and engine cooling, Electrical system, Sep 15, 2011
I AM THE OWNER OF A 2011 HYUNDAI SONATA LIMITED. WITHIN THE LAST 2 DAYS IT HAS NOT STARTED 4 TIMES. THE MESSAGE SCREEN WITHIN THE CAR SAYS "PRESS BRAKE TO START". IT WILL NOT ALLOW ME TO DEPRESS THE BRAKE PEDDLE AT ALL, TO HAVE THE ENGINE START. MANY DASH SYSTEM LIGHTS GO ON, BUT THE CAR WILL NOT START. THE ELECTRICAL SYSTEM DEFINITELY HAS AN ISSUE. I LOOKED ON THE INTERNET TO SEE IF OTHERS HAVE EXPERIENCED THE SAME PROBLEM.. I AM STILL IN SHOCK!!!! HUNDREDS FROM ALL OVER THE USA HAVE HAD THE SAME PROBLEM AND FROM WHAT I READ NOTHING HAS BEEN DONE TO CORRECT THIS PROBLEM. I DRIVE 100 MILES TO WORK AND I MUST HAVE A RELIABLE CAR. HERE IS A BEAUTIFUL LOOKING CAR SITTING IN OUR GARAGE NOT ABLE TO START!!! THIS IS REALLY A PROBLEM. PLEASE REGISTER THIS COMPLAINT AND HOPEFULLY HYUNDAI IS DOING SOMETHING TO HELP US POOR FOLKS THAT BOUGHT THESE CARS. *KB
Power train, Sep 15, 2011
I PLACED THE CAR IN PARK WHEN I GOT HOME FROM WORK WENT INSIDE MY HOUSE FOR A FEW MINUTES CAME OUTSIDE, WHEN I TURNED THE CAR ON AND TRIED TO TAKE IT OUT OF PARK IT WOULD NOT CHANGE GEARS. I TRIED IT FOR ALMOST 20MIN. I HAD TO TURN THE CAR OFF AND BACK ON A FEW TIMES FOR IT TO WORK. IT DOES IT ALMOST EVERYDAY. YESTERDAY 09/14/2011 I HAD TO DRIVE THE CAR AWAY FROM MY JOB DUE TO AN EMERGENCY AND IT WOULD NOT CHANGE GEARS. I TRIED AFTER 10MIN AND JUST LEFT THE CAR BEHIND AND HAD TO GET A RIDE FROM A COWORKER. IF THIS WAS A LIFE OR DEATH SITUATION I WOULD LIKELY NOT MAKE IT DUE TO THIS SAFETY ISSUE. THIS IS AN ONGOING PROBLEM. *KB
Engine and engine cooling, Electrical system, Sep 15, 2011
AT 5:15 PM ON 8/22/11, I GOT INTO MY CAR TO GO WORK AND IT WOULD NOT START. IT WAS VERY HOT AND I WAS SWEATING TRYING TO GET THE CAR STARTED. I TRIED SEVERAL TIMES BUT THE CAR WOULD NOT START. I CALLED THE DEALERSHIP AND I GOT NO ASSISTANCE. THE SCREEN ON THE DASH-BOARD READ "PRESS THE BRAKES" WHICH I DID LIKE I HAVE DONE IN THE PAST. I GAVE UP AND CONTACTED A FRIEND TO TAKE ME TO WORK. LATER, THAT NIGHT IT DID START BUT WOULD NOT START AGAIN SO I ASSUMED IT WAS THE BATTERY. I CALLED ROADSIDE SERVICE AND THEY ARRIVED 5:30 AM IN THE MORNING TO JUMP START THE CAR (NOT THE BATTERY). IT GETS BETTER, A LADY THAT LIVES IN MY AREA WAS WALKING HER DOG, WHO HAS A BLACK SONATA 2011 TOLD ME THAT HER SONATA WOULD NOT START AND SHE JUST GOT HER VEHICLE BACK. SHE TOLD ME WHAT WAS WRONG WITH MY CAR. I CALLED THE DEALERSHIP AGAIN WHILE I WAS WAITING ON A TOW TRUCK AND EXPLAINED HOW THIS COULD HAVE BEEN A BAD SITUATION IF I WAS STRANDED WITH MY MOTHER IN THE CAR WHO JUST HAD SURGERY TO REMOVE CANCER. I EXPLAINED THAT I NEEDED MY CAR REPAIRED IMMEDIATELY BECAUSE I NEEDED TO TRANSPORT MY MOTHER AND I WAS CONCERN THE CAR WOULD STOP WORKING AGAIN. THE HYUNDAI REPRESENTATIVE STATED HE WOULD HAVE IT FIXED IN 15 MINUTES AND HE ALSO INDICATED THAT THERE HAS BEEN A FEW SONATAS THAT THE "SENSOR" UNDER THE BRAKE PEDAL HAS GONE BAD. THE SALESPERSON THAT SOLD THE VEHICLE TO ME STATED THE SAME THAT THE "SENSOR" GOES BAD. EIGHT (8) MONTHS OF OWNERSHIP AND THE LADY WITH THE BLACK SONATA HAD HER CAR LESS. THE TOW TRUCK DRIVER SAID HE HAS PICKED UP A COUPLE OF SONATAS THAT WOULD NOT START. *KB
Seats, Sep 12, 2011
THE PASSENGER SEAT IS TO LOW AND THE SHOULDER HARNESS OF THE SEAT BELT WILL LAYS ACROSS THE NECK OF ANYONE 62 INCHES OR SHORTER. THE SEAT BELT SHOULDER HARNESS WILL NOT ADJUST TO A PERSON OF 62 INCHES OR LESS FORCING THEM TO USE A CUSHION OF SOME TYPE TO POSITION THEM HIGHER IN THE SEAT FOR THE HARNESS TO BE EFFECTIVE. *TR
Power train, Sep 12, 2011
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 HYUNDAI SONATA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHEN SHIFTING INTO DRIVE, THE INDICATOR LIGHT WOULD NOT ILLUMINATE AND HE WAS UNABLE TO ACCELERATE INTERMITTENTLY. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER WHERE UNKNOWN REPAIRS WERE PERFORMED ON THE VEHICLE YET THE FAILURE PERSISTED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE NOR WAS THE VEHICLE REPAIRED. THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 29,799 AND THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 25,000.
Engine and engine cooling, Fuel system, Gasoline, Electronic stability control (ESC), Sep 10, 2011
LOSS OF POWER, CAR SHUTS DOWN, 'CHECK CHARGING SYSTEM' ALARM/CHIME WITH ALARM SYMBOLS ON DASH DISPLAY FOR BATTERY, CHECK ENGINE AND WRENCH ICONS. HAVE TO PULL OFF THE HIGHWAY SOMEHOW (IN MIDST OF HEAVY TRAFFIC) TO SHUT CAR COMPLETELY OFF AND RESTART. ON THIRD INCIDENT (ONE DAY AFTER SECOND), CAR WOULD NOT RESTART FOR 10 MINUTES AND CHECK ENGINE ICON REMAINED LIT. EVERY INCIDENT HAS BEEN WHILE TRAVELING AT HIGH RATE OF SPEED IN COMMUTER HIGHWAY TRAFFIC. VERY FRIGHTENING AND DANGEROUS EXPERIENCE FOR DRIVER AND SAFETY HAZARD TO OTHERS WHEN IT OCCURS. *TR
Steering, Sep 9, 2011
ALTHOUGH MY 2011 SONATA LIMITED, IS IN EFFECT AN EXCELLENT VEHICLE, IT IS CAUSING ME A GREAT DEAL DISCOMFORT. IT IS BEING LET DOWN WITH THE WORST STEERING TRACKING I HAVE EVER EXPERIENCED. THE CAR CONSTANTLY NEEDS TO BE EASED BACK AND FORTH TO MAKE IT STAY STRAIGHT. OVER A LONG RIDE THIS IS VERY FATIGUING, THE SLIGHTEST LAPSE IN STEERING CONTROL TO MADE AN IN CAR ADJUSTMENT OF THE RADIO FOR EXAMPLE, OR TO ADJUST THE REAR VIEW MIRROR, CAN SEND YOU TOWARDS THE GUARDRAIL. I AM CONSTANTLY HAVING TO MAKE MINOR STEERING CORRECTIONS WHEN DRIVING STRAIGHT, I HAVE NEVER FELT SO INSECURE IN CHARGE OF A VEHICLE IN MY LIFE. FOR ALL THE GREAT SAFETY MEASURES BUILT INTO THIS CAR, FOR A FUNDAMENTAL SUCH AS THE STEERING, WELL. YOU KIND OF EXPECT IT TO WORK. AS LONG AS THERE IS TENSION ON THE STEERING WHEEL, LIKE IN A CURVE OR A TURN, THE STEERING RESPONDS FAST AND ACCURATE. THE SECOND YOU ARE ON THE STRAIGHT ROAD, THE STEERING WANDERS. I REALLY FEEL UNSAFE, THE PLEASURE I SHOULD BE HAVING WITH THIS CAR HAS BEEN REPLACED WITH TRYING TO STAY STRAIGHT IN MY LANE. MY WORK INVOLVES ME FLYING ALL OVER THE COUNTRY SO I DRIVE COUNTLESS RENTAL CARS, NONE HAVE ANYWHERE NEAR THE BAD STEERING TRACKING I'M EXPERIENCING. I WOULD LIKE TO TAKE IT BACK, BUT THE DEALERSHIP DOESN'T THINK THERE IS A PROBLEM, THEIR STATIC TESTS SHOW THE ALIGNMENT SPOT ON, AND I WAS RECOMMENDED TO DRIVE IT FOR A FEW THOUSAND MILES AND I'LL GET USED TO IT. AND THE DEALER'S TECHNICIAN INFORMED ME THAT THE SONATA ALWAYS FOLLOWS THE CREST OF THE ROAD. THIS IS NOT ACCEPTABLE. I WAS SO CONCERNED I WENT TO SAFERCAR.GOV TO SEE IF ANYONE ELSE WAS HAVING THIS PROBLEM, AND FOUND LITERALLY DOZENS OF PEOPLE WITH THIS SAME COMPLAINT. *TR
Engine and engine cooling, Electrical system, Sep 8, 2011, fire
UPON PULLING OUT FROM A STOP SIGN THE ENGINE STALLED, AFTER COASTING TO A STOP AND PLACING IN PARK I TRIED TO RESTART ENGINE. ALL LIGHTS WENT OFF AND MOTOR DID NOT TURN. ATTEMPTED AGAIN, SAME THING THEN PASSENGER COMPARTMENT FILLED WITH SMOKE. FIRE DEPT ARRIVED AND DETERMINED SOMEWHERE IN DASH A COMPONENT HAD FRIED.THEY THEN DISCONNECTED BATTERY. VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO DEALER, PER DEALER ENGINE LOCKED UP AND THEY HAVE TO DISASSEMBLE DASH TO DETERMINE WHAT HAD FRIED. *TR
Seats, Sep 8, 2011
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 HYUNDAI SONATA. WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED THE CONTACT NOTICED THE PASSENGER SEAT WAS POSITIONED EXTREMELY LOW ADDING THE RISK OF INJURY TO THE PASSENGER IF A CRASH OCCURRED AND THE AIR BAG WOULD DEPLOY. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND STATED THAT WAS THE DESIGN OF THE SEAT AND THEY WERE UNABLE TO MAKE CHANGES TO THE DESIGN . THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 492.
Exterior lighting, Visibility, Sep 7, 2011
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS 2011 HYUNDAI SONATA. THE CONTACT NOTICED THAT THE HEADLIGHTS PRODUCED A SHADOW ON THE WINDSHIELD MAKING IT EXTREMELY DIFFICULT TO SEE CLEARLY WHEN DRIVING AT NIGHT. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER FOR DIAGNOSTICS. THE TECHNICIANS STATED THE HEADLIGHTS MET SAFETY STANDARDS. THE TECHNICIAN ADVISED THE CONTACT TO UPGRADE THE HEADLIGHTS AT HER EXPENSE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 8,500. UPDATED 09/21/11 *BF UPDATED 09/28/11
Engine and engine cooling, Power train, Electrical system, Sep 7, 2011
WHEN PULLING OUT OF A PARKING LOT FROM A STOP THE SERVICE LIGHT CAME ON AND THE CAR'S READY LIGHT STARTED FLASHING. THE CAR LOST ALMOST ALL POWER WHILE I WAS IN THE CENTER OF THE ROAD. OTHER CARS WERE ABLE TO AVOID ME, BUT THEY COULD HAVE EASILY RAN INTO ME. SHUTTING THE CAR OFF AND RESTARTING IT RESTORED NORMAL OPERATIONS. *TR
Service brakes, Hydraulic, Sep 7, 2011
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 HYUNDAI SONATA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE PUSH TO START BUTTON SWITCH FAILED. WHEN DEPRESSING THE BRAKES AND TRYING TO PLACE THE VEHICLE INTO GEAR, THE VEHICLE WOULD NOT MOVE. THE FAILURE RECURRED ON AN INTERMITTENT BASIS. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER AND THEY ADVISED HIM THAT THE BRAKE SWITCH FAILED AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED FOR THE BRAKE SWITCH. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 24,000. THE VIN WAS UNAVAILABLE.
Service brakes, Hydraulic, Sep 6, 2011
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 HYUNDAI SONATA. WHILE MERGING INTO ANOTHER LANE, THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE BRAKES WERE DEPRESSED AND FAILED TO ENGAGE. THE CONTACT PULLED THE EMERGENCY BRAKE IN ORDER TO STOP THE VEHICLE. THE TRUNK WOULD ALSO OPEN INADVERTENTLY. THE DEALER REPAIRED THE FAILURE BY REPLACING THE MASTER CYLINDER AND MODULE FOR THE BRAKING SYSTEM AND ALSO ADVISED THE CONTACT TO OPEN THE TRUNK MANUALLY. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE AND FILED A REPORT. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 12,500 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 14,000. THE VIN WAS UNAVAILABLE.
Steering, Sep 5, 2011
PURCHASED 2011 SONATA GLS ON 6/20/11. DRIVING HOME I HAD TO MAKE MY LEFT HAND HOLD TIGHTER ON THE STEERING WHEEL TO KEEP THE CAR FROM DRIFTING TO THE RIGHT. AS I RELEASED MY GRIP FROM THE STEERING WHEEL I NOTICED THE CAR PULLING/DRIFTING ALL THE WAY TO THE RIGHT AS FAR AS SPACE WOULD ALLOW. NOTIFIED DEALERSHIP IMMEDIATELY, HAD CAR SERVICED 4 TIMES IN TWO MONTHS. HYUNDAI ADJUSTED TIRE PRESSURE, DID ALIGNMENT, ROAD FORCE BALANCE TEST AND ROTATED TIRES, DID ANOTHER ALIGNMENT. THIS HAS LESSENED THE PULLING/DRIFTING TO THE RIGHT (SOME PULLING/DRIFTING STILL REMAINS) AND WHAT WILL HAPPEN WHEN, DURING NORMAL MAINTENANCE, I ROTATE THE TIRES BACK TO THEIR ORIGINAL POSITION? WILL THIS TERRIBLE PULLING/DRIFTING TO THE RIGHT BEGIN ALL OVER AGAIN? THE PROBLEM REMAINS THAT WHEN YOU MOVE THE STEERING WHEEL TO THE RIGHT TO EITHER STAY IN YOUR LANE, CHANGE LANES TO THE RIGHT, OR MAKE A RIGHT HAND TURN, AFTER YOU COME BACK TO CENTER, THE CAR DRIFTS BACK TO THE RIGHT. AT FIRST HYUNDAI WOULD NOT ACKNOWLEDGE THAT THERE WAS ANY PROBLEM. THEY NOW SAY THAT THIS IS NORMAL. HOW IS IT NORMAL WHEN IT DOES NOT DO IT TO THE LEFT? HYUNDAI SERVICE MANAGERS SAY THIS PROBLEM OCCURS ON ALL 2011 SONATA'S FROM MINOR TO MAJOR PULLING TO THE LEFT OR RIGHT ON EACH VEHICLE. HYUNDAI HAS REFUSED TO CONTINUE TO TRY TO FIX THIS PROBLEM. I HAVE FILED A COMPLAINT WITH HYUNDAI MOTOR AMERICA AND HAVE A CASE NUMBER AND HAVE CONTACTED MY STATE'S ATTORNEY GENERAL'S OFFICE. I WILL BE CONTACTING HYUNDAI AGAIN BY CERTIFIED LETTER REQUESTING THAT THEY TELL ME WHAT THEY INTEND TO DO TO FIX MY BRAND NEW CAR. WHY IS THERE NO RECALL FOR PEOPLE IN MY SITUATION? WHY IS HYUNDAI NOT HELD ACCOUNTABLE FOR WHAT THEY HAVE DONE AND BE MADE TO FIX MY BRAND NEW CAR? AS CONSUMERS WE PAY A LOT OF MONEY FOR THESE CARS. THEY ASK US TO BE HONEST WITH THEM ON THEIR TV COMMERCIAL, BUT WHEN I DID THEY DID NOT LIKE IT.
Electrical system, Sep 3, 2011
HAVE A 2011 HYUNDAI SONATA LIMITED AND YESTERDAY WHEN ATTEMPTING TO START THE CAR THE PUSH BUTTON START FAILED. I HAD MY FOOT ON THE BRAKE AND HIT THE BUTTON AS I ALWAYS DO AND NOTHING. THE DASHBOARD KEPT READING "PRESS ON BRAKE PEDAL AND PUSH BUTTON TO START" I REPEATEDLY TRIED OVER AND OVER. AFTER 15-20 FAILED ATTEMPTS I WAITED A FEW MINUTES AS I LOOKED UP THE ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE NUMBER. AFTER FINDING THE NUMBER I TRIED "ONE LAST TIME" AND THE LUCKILY THE CAR STARTED. I DROVE HOME PARKED IT AND THIS MORNING WENT OUT AND THE CAR STARTS. I HAVE SCHEDULED AN APPOINTMENT AT THE DEALERSHIP LATER IN THE WEEK AND HOPE THEY GET THIS FIXED. FROM WHAT I READ ONLINE A LOT OF PEOPLE ARE HAVING THE SAME PROBLEM AND THE "ATTEMPTED DEALER FIXES" HAVE NOT COMPLETELY SOLVED THE PROBLEM. HYUNDAI NEEDS TO FIGURE IT OUT AND MAKE THIS RIGHT. HOW CAN ANYONE FEEL COMFORTABLE DRIVING THIS CAR WITH THE THOUGHT THEY CAN BE STRANDED AT ANYTIME. *TR