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.
Air bags, Aug 15, 2017
AIRBAG LIGHT IS ON AND WON'T GO OFF!!!
Steering, Aug 15, 2017
STEERING WHEEL HAS LOOSE SPOT NOTICEABLE ESPECIALLY WHEN TURNING INTO A PARKING SPOT. IT IS AS IF IT'S PULSATING OR A CLUNKING LOOSE AREA WHEN STEERING WHEEL IS TURNED.
Exterior lighting, Electrical system, Aug 15, 2017
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 HYUNDAI SONATA. THE HEADLIGHT AND INSTRUMENTAL PANEL LIGHTS FLICKERED ABRUPTLY CAUSING THE ENGINE NOT TO START UP. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO A LOCAL MECHANIC OR DEALER TO HAVE DIAGNOSTIC PERFORMED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 63,167.
Engine, Aug 14, 2017
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 HYUNDAI SONATA. WHILE DRIVING 40 MPH, THE VEHICLE STALLED WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO DEL RAY HYUNDAI, ACURA OF DEL RAY BEACH, FLORIDA (LOCATED AT 655 NE 6TH AVE, 33483) WHERE THE ENGINE ASSEMBLY WAS REPLACED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE ENGINE INDICATOR ILLUMINATED DIRECTLY AFTER THE REPAIR WAS COMPLETED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN BACK TO THE SAME DEALER ON THREE OCCASIONS WHERE THE FUEL CAP AND CANISTER CLOSE VALVE WERE REPLACED, BUT THE ENGINE FAILURE WARNING INDICATOR KEPT ILLUMINATING. IN ADDITION, THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE ENGINE INDICATOR ILLUMINATED INTERMITTENTLY AT FIRST, AND THEN ON A CONSTANT BASIS. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 92,000.
Other or unspecified, Aug 13, 2017
I AM HAVING ISSUES WITH MY BRAKES AND CAR STARTING. WHEN I PRESS ON THE BRAKES AND USE THE PUSH START BUTTON, THE BRAKES BECOME HARD AND I AM UNABLE TO START MY CAR. I KEEP MY FOOT ON THE BRAKE AND HIT THE PUSH BUTTON SEVERAL TIMES. I GET OFF OF WORK OR DROP MY CHILD AT DAYCARE AND WONDERING IF MY CAR IS GOING TO START. I HAD MY CAR SERVICED IN EARLY MAY. TWO WEEKS LATER THE BRAKES LIGHTS WERE STAYING ON AFTER TURNING THE VEHICLE OFF. I WOULD HAVE TO TAP THE BRAKES SEVERAL TIMES TO TURN OFF. ON JUNE 12, 2017,I LEFT WORK AND MY CAR WOULDN'T START. LUCKILY ONE OF MY CO-WORKERS STAYED WITH ME BECAUSE THE RENTAL CAR COMPANIES WERE CLOSING. I GOT A RIDE HOME AND GOT A RENTAL THE NEXT MORNING. I HAD TO TOW MY CAR AND I NEED A STARTER AND BATTERY. EVEN AFTER THE NEW STARTER, THE EVENTS CONTINUE TO HAPPEN AT RANDOM. THE DEALERSHIP DOES NOT PROVIDE LOANER VEHICLES. I CAN'T LEAVE MY VEHICLE FOR A LONG TIME AND PAY OUT OF POCKET FOR A RENTAL CAR. THIS IS RIDICULOUS AND NOT SAFE. IT'S HOT IN TEXAS AND I CAN'T BE STRANDED WITH A 1 YEAR OLD.
Air bags, Aug 9, 2017
AIR BAG LIGHT COMES ON WITHOUT CAR BEING IN ANY TYPE OF ACCIDENT. DEALER WANTS TO REPLACE THE ENTIRE CONTROL MODULE. WHEN RESEARCHING THIS ONLINE, A TREMENDOUS AMOUNT OF HYUNDAI OWNERS ARE HAVING THE SAME ISSUE.
Steering, Engine, Aug 9, 2017
MY STEERING WHEEL IS CLUNCKING & RATTLING VERY BAD AS IF I AM GOING TO LOSE CONTROL. I HAVE ALSO BEN BURNING OIL LIKE CRAZY FOR MONTHS.
Air bags, Aug 8, 2017
AIRBAG LIGHT IS ON, VEHICLE WAS UNDER NORMAL USE CONDITIONS.
Steering, Aug 8, 2017
TL* THE CONTACT'S GIRLFRIEND OWNS A 2011 HYUNDAI SONATA. WHILE DRIVING, THE CONTACT HEARD A CLICKING NOISE COMING FROM THE STEERING WHEEL AND AN UNKNOWN WARNING INDICATOR ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO DIAGNOSED THAT THE POWER STEERING UNIT NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 127,455.
Engine, Aug 8, 2017
I HAVE HAD THIS CAR FOR A LITTLE OVER A YEAR AND IT HAS BEEN FULL OF RECALLS, SOME I HAVE BEEN TOLD OF, SOME I HAVE NOT. THIS IS A RECENT EVENT, I GOT MY OIL CHANGED AT THE USUAL SHOP AND ABOUT 1000 MILES BEFORE I WAS DUE (I GET IT EVERY 3-4,000 MILES) I WAS COMPLETELY OUT OF OIL. I THAN TOOK IT TO MY LOCAL SHOP AND THEY COULDN'T FIND ANY LEAKS OR ISSUES BUT WARNED ME THERE IS A RECALL FOR MY CAR BURNING OIL, WHICH I WAS NOT TOLD BY HYUNDAI. I TOOK IT TOO THE DEALERSHIP WHERE MY WARRANTY IS THROUGH AND THEY DID AN OIL CHANGE FOR ME AND TOLD ME TO COME BACK IN 1000 MILES. I WENT TO THE BEACH, WAS ABOUT 300 MILES FROM MY 1000 MILE GOAL AND I WAS AGAIN COMPLETELY OUT OF OIL. I PUT A QUART IN AND TOOK IT BACK TO THEM AND I WAS EVEN OUT THAN BUT THEY REFUSED TO FIX IT BECAUSE I HAD ADDED OIL ON MY OWN (SO MY ENGINE WOULDN'T RUN WITH NO OIL). THEY ARE STILL UNSURE OF WHAT HAS CAUSED THIS OIL BURNING OR HOW MUCH OIL MY CAR IS BURNING.
Air bags, Aug 6, 2017
AIRBAG INDICATOR LIGHT IS LIT UP ON DASHBOARD INDICATING A FAULT WITH THE AIR BAG.
Electrical system, Aug 4, 2017, fire
TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2011 HYUNDAI SONATA. WHILE THE CONTACT'S DAUGHTER WAS DRIVING, THE VEHICLE STARTED TO SMOKE UNDER THE HOOD. THE CONTACT'S DAUGHTER PULLED INTO A PARKING SPACE. UPON FURTHER INSPECTION, THE CONTACT'S DAUGHTER'S BOYFRIEND LIFTED THE HOOD WHEN THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT SUDDENLY CAUGHT FIRE WITHOUT WARNING. THE CONTACT STATED THAT A GENERAL MANAGER OF A NEARBY STORE EXTINGUISHED THE FIRE. NO INJURIES WERE SUSTAINED AND A POLICE REPORT WAS NOT FILED. THE INSURANCE COMPANY HAD THE VEHICLE INSPECTED AND DIAGNOSED THAT THE FIRE STARTED BEHIND THE ENGINE DUE TO A SHORTAGE IN THE WINDSHIELD WIPER WIRING. THE CONTACT CALLED JIM SHORKEY UNIONTOWN KIA (724-317-0282 LOCATED AT 1050 PITTSBURGH RD, UNIONTOWN, PA 15401), BUT THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 75,800. UPDATED 10/24/17*LJ THE CONSUMER STATED THE VEHICLE WAS BELIEVED TO HAVE HAD A FUEL LEAK BETWEEN THE ENGINE AND WINDSHIELD. UPDATED 10/26/2017*JS
Electronic stability control (ESC), Engine, Aug 4, 2017
TRANSMISSION REPLACED.. STARTER TAKING MORE BATTERY POWER TO START CAR SO STARTER WAS REPLACED THEN CATASTROPHIC ENGINE FAILURE. AFTER REPLACEMENT OF ENGINE- IT WAS FOUND THAT THERE IS AN ELECTRICAL SHORT THAT WILL NOT ALLOW THE ALTERNATOR TO REMAIN CHARGED. WHEN THE ENGINE FAILED WE WERE DRIVING 68MPH ON THE HIGHWAY ALL LIGHTS, DUMMY LIGHTS AND THE POWER TO THE CAR STARTED TO FLASH, INCREASE THEN DECREASE QUICKLY THEN AGAIN AND AGAIN.. THUMPING NOISE LIGHTS CONTINUED TO FLASH/ON OFF/ETC CAR LOST POWER ENGINE DIED. THE DEALERSHIP IS NOW SAYING THAT I AM RESPONSIBLE FOR PAYING FOR DIAGNOSTICS TO FIND THE UNDERLYING CAUSE OF ELECTRICAL SHORT .. I AM RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY ELECTRICAL REPAIR THAT NEEDS TO HAPPEN. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM WAS NOT FAULTY PRIOR TO ENGINE FAILURE. HYUNDAI SHOULD BE RESPONSIBLE FOR FINDING THE ISSUE AND CORRECTING THE PROBLEM.. THE CAR HAD NO ALTERNATOR CHARGING ISSUES PRIOR TO THE ENGINE FAILURE. A TOTAL OF $13,800 HAS BEEN SPENT ON REPAIRS AND THE CAR IS STILL NON FUNCTIONAL. THIS IS JUST NOT RIGHT.
Tires, Aug 4, 2017
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 HYUNDAI SONATA EQUIPPED WITH GOODYEAR ASSURANCE TIRES, SIZE: P205/65R16 (NA). WHILE DRIVING 35 MPH, THE VEHICLE MADE A LOUD RUMBLING NOISE AND THE REAR DRIVER SIDE TIRE BLEW OUT. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE TIRE HAD SEVERAL RIPS IN THE TREAD. THE DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED ABOUT THE FAILURE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE TIRE AND VEHICLE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 150,000.
Steering, Exterior lighting, Service brakes, Aug 3, 2017
HAD MY 2 FRONT TIRES CHANGED, AFTER THEY WERE CHARGED THE BRAKE PADDLE LOCKED UP AND THE PUSH BUTTON STARTER WILL NOT START THE CAR AND I HAVE NO BRAKE LIGHTS. THE ONLY WAY TO START THE CAR IS TO PRESS DOWN ON THE BRAKES WHILE PUSHING AND HOLDING THE STARTER AT THE SAME TIME FOR ABOUT 60 SECONDS , THE CAR WILL NOT MOVE OUT OF GEAR UNLESS THE SHIFT RELEASE LOCK IS PUSHED. I HAVE NO BRAKE LIGHTS
Exterior lighting, Other or unspecified, Aug 3, 2017
LOW BEAM HEADLIGHTS STOPPED WORKING WITHOUT WARNING WHILE DRIVING VEHICLE IN RURAL AREA. WAS NOT NOTICED INITIALLY BECAUSE WAS DRIVING ON WELL TRAVELED ROAD (2 LANES, MAIN ARTERY OF CITY) WITH OTHER VEHICLES AND THEIR LIGHTS ILLUMINATED THE ROAD WAY. HOWEVER, WHEN ON A LESS TRAVELED ROAD THAT IS WHEN UNABLE TO SEE HIGHWAY OR SURROUNDING AREAS. AS A RESULT, THIS FORCED ME TO MOMENTARILY PULL OFF THE HIGHWAY. THE HIGH BEAM FORTUNATELY WAS WORKING SO UTILIZED FOR REMAINDER OF DRIVE HOME. POSED POTENTIAL RISKS - DRIVING FOR A WHILE WITH NO LIGHTS ON, TURNS, WHEN GETTING BACK ON THE ROAD, BLINDING CARS IN THE OPPOSITE DIRECTION, MAKING A U-TURN TO TURN INTO MY HOUSING AREA ON A MULTI-LANE HIGHWAY AT 10:00 PM AS THIS WAS DISCOVERED IN THE EVENING . IT IS UNCLEAR IF THIS WAS ASSOCIATED WITH THE SPORADIC CLICKING NOISE HEARD FOR SOME TIME WHICH APPEARS TO ORIGINATE FROM THE FRONT AREA OF THE CAR. THE SOUND CAN BE HEARD ON THE INSIDE OF THE CAR AND IS NOT AUDIBLE WHEN STANDING OUTSIDE. REPORTED SPORADIC NOISE ON SEVERAL OCCASIONS TO DEALERSHIP FOR REPAIR. WAS INFORMED THAT THEY DIDN'T KNOW WHERE THE SOUND WAS COMING FROM BUT IT DID NOT APPEAR TO EFFECT THE CAR; MAYBE A SNAKE (ACTUALLY TOLD BY DEALERSHIP). NO RECALL, OR COULD NOT DUPLICATE SOUND AND THEREFORE UNABLE TO ADDRESS TICKING.
Steering, Aug 2, 2017
I HAVE A 2011 HYUNDAI SONATA WRITING IN REGARDS TO THE HYUNDAI STEERING GEAR ASSEMBLY RECALL NO. 0## I HAVE A VEHICLE THAT HAS THIS LOOSE STEERING WHEEL CONCERN WHERE THIS VEHICLE IS IMMOBILE NOW AND CANNOT BE SAFELY DRIVEN ANYTIME. THIS VEHICLE HAS BEEN PARKED IN MY YARD SINCE IT WAS PICKED UP FROM THE DEALER SEVERAL WEEKS AGO. WHEN I SPOKE TO THE LOCAL DEALERSHIP ABOUT IT, I AM TOLD IT IS NOT COVERED DUE TO ITS MILEAGE. THIS ITEM HAS BEEN A CONCERN AWHILE AND BROUGHT MORE CLEARLY TO MY ATTENTION WHEN DRIVEN BY MY FATHER. HE DESCRIBES IT AS "A DEATH TRAP" AND TOLD ME NOT TO DRIVE IT UNTIL IT CORRECTED. THERE IS EXCESSIVE PLAY OR A LOOSE FEELING IN THE STEERING WHEEL AND IT IS VERY SLOW TO RESPOND. IT FEEL LIKE IT WILL FALL APART AT ANYTIME WHEN DRIVING AND IT HAS A CLICKING NOISE WHEN MAKING A TURN EITHER DIRECTION. I HAVE WRITTEN A LETTER TO THE HYUNDAI ASSURANT PROGRAM AND I HAVE BEEN TOLD THE SAME THING; ITS NOT A COVERED WARRANTY ITEM. I SAYS IT IS COVERED DUE TO THE RECALL NO MATTER WHEN IT WAS DISCOVERED, BECAUSE THE ASSEMBLY OF THE STEERING COLUMN IS DEFINITELY MALFUNCTIONING. AN UPLOAD OF THE LETTER FORWARD TO HYUNDAI ASSURANT PROGRAM IS ATTACHED TO THIS COMPLAINT. UNHAPPY OWNER OKLAHOMA
Suspension, Aug 1, 2017
FRONT COIL SPRING HAD CORROSION CAN UP RESULTING IN A FRACTURE NEAR THE BASE WITH A LARGE PORTION BREAKING OFF AND HITTING THE TIRE. THIS IS THE SAME DEFECT MENTIONED IN THE DEC. 2015 RECALL CAMPAIGN #15-01-049 ENTITLED "INSTALLATION OF URETHANE PROTECTOR OVER FRONT COIL SPRINGS (RECALL CAMPAIGN 133)" IN WHICH ON PAGE 5, STEP 4 IT STATES "-INSPECT THE LOWER COILS OF THE SPRING FOR DAMAGE OR CORROSION. REPLACE AS NECESSARY, UNDER WARRANTY REGARDLESS OF MILEAGE, BEFORE COMPLETING THE RECALL PROCEDURES." HOWEVER, HYUNDAI STATES THAT MY VIN INDICATES THE CAR WAS MANUFACTURED OUTSIDE THEIR 2.5 MONTH MANUFACTURING RANGE AND IS NOT COVERED BY THE EXISTING RECALL. I SUGGEST THAT THE PROBLEM IS MORE EXTENSIVE THAN THEY HAVE ADMITTED AND ONLINE SEARCHES OF THE OWNERS FORUMS SHOWS MANY OTHERS WITH THIS SAME ISSUE. THE SPRING IS COMPLETELY SHEARED OFF AND FAILED WHILE IN MOTION ON A CITY ROAD. I CALLED THE MANUFACTURER AND THEY DECLINED TO ACKNOWLEDGE ANY KNOWN DEFECTS IN THE MANUFACTURING OR DESIGN OF THE COIL. NOTE, THAT WHILE MOST VEHICLES HAVE 3RD PARTY AFTER-MARKET OEM COILS AVAILABLE, THERE ARE NO THIRD PARTY MANUFACTURERS / RETAILS (I.E. MOOG, ETC.) MAKING THIS COIL , AS APPARENTLY THEY DO NOT WANT THE LIABILITY ASSOCIATED WITH THE PRODUCT.
Fuel/propulsion system, Jul 31, 2017
FUMES IN CAB WHILE DRIVING CAUSING BURNING NOSTRILS, HEADACHE, BAD TASTE IN MOUTH, GAGGING AND NAUSEA. 2 DIFFERENT HYUNDAI DEALER SERVICE DEPARTMENTS HAVE TOLD ME IT IS NORMAL FOR THE PLASTIC GAS TANK TO VENT THE FUMES IN HOT WEATHER TO PREVENT THE GAS TANK FROM EXPLODING, AND THERE IS NO REPAIR FOR IT. I DON'T KNOW HOW IT IS SAFE FOR THE DRIVER TO BE BREATHING IN THOSE FUMES. I HAVE TO PARK THE CAR AND GET OUT SO I CAN BREATHE. THIS IS NORMALLY ON DAYS WHEN THE TEMPERATURE IS ABOVE 110 DEGREES, WHICH IS OFTEN IN LAS VEGAS SUMMERS, AND NORMALLY HAPPENS DURING CITY STOP AND GO DRIVING, BUT HAS ALSO HAPPENED DURING HIGHWAY DRIVING. THIS HAPPENS WITH OUR 2009 HYUNDAI ELANTRA UNDER THE SAME CONDITIONS, AS WELL, BUT THE FUMES ARE NOT AS STRONG.
Electrical system, Jul 31, 2017
WHILE DRIVING THE CAR, IT STALLED AND I STRUGGLED TO TURN INTO A PARKING SPACE. I HAD A DIFFICULT TIME TURNING THE STEERING WHEEL, THEN IMMEDIATELY ON MY DASHBOARD, THE EPS LIGHT APPEARED. THE CAR WONT START IMMEDIATELY, IT DOES NOT LOCK W/ THE KEY, I HAVE TO MANUALLY LOCK IT- WHEN DONE MANUALLY THE CAR DOES NOT START. HOWEVER, WHEN THE KEY WORKS THE CAR STARTS. THE ENTIRE DASHBOARD HAS TO BE REPROGRAMMED BC OF THE EPS ISSUE. I RESEARCHED THE EPS ISSUE AND FOUND THE RECALL ON HYUNDAI FOR THIS ISSUE. WHEN IN A STATIONARY POSITION, WHEN THE CAR DOES NOT START, I WAIT A MOMENT AND TRY SEVERAL TIMES AND THEN IT STARTS. MY BUSINESS INVOLVES TRAVELING AND THIS IS VERY CONCERNING AS MANY TIMES I AM TRAVELING ALONE.
Engine, Jul 31, 2017
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 HYUNDAI SONATA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE OVERHEATED WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN UNKNOWN DEALER WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE ENGINE HEAD WAS CRACKED AND CAUSED COOLANT TO LEAK. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 90,000.
Air bags, Jul 28, 2017
UPON STARTING THE CAR, THE AIRBAG INSTRUMENT LIGHT ILLUMINATED AND WILL NOT TURN OFF. CAR HAS 66,000 MILES AND I'M WORRIED THE AIRBAG WILL NOT WORK AS DESIGNED.
Engine, Jul 28, 2017
WHEN I TOOK MY 2011 SONATA IN FOR THE MOTOR RECALL, I WAS TOLD MY MOTOR WAS OK. ON JULY 11, 2017 MY 2011 SONATA LIMITED SUDDENLY STOPPED RUNNING WHILE DRIVING ABOUT 55 MPH AND STRANDED ME IN THE MIDDLE OF A BUSY FOUR LANE HIGHWAY. I HAD 146 THOUSAND ON THE ODOMETER WHEN THIS HAPPENED. AS IT WAS OUT OF WARRANTY, I HAD IT TOWED TO MY REGULAR MECHANIC. A FEW DAYS LATER HE INFORMED ME THE MOTOR COMPLETELY SEIZED. HOW CAN THIS BE AS HYUNDAI ASSURED ME MY MOTOR WAS OK AND I CHANGE THE OIL EVERY FIVE THOUSAND MILES WITH PURE SYNTHETIC? I THINK IT IS ONE HELL OF A COINCIDENCE THAT YOU HAD A RECALL ON THAT MOTOR, YOU FOUND MINE TO BE OK, AND THEN IT SUFFERS A COMPLETE AND ABSOLUTE FAILURE. I PAID MY MECHANIC $4602.05 TO REPLACE THE MOTOR WITH A USED MOTOR THAT HAS 48 THOUSAND MILES ON IT, AS I COULD NOT AFFORD A NEW CAR. THIS IS MY LAST HYUNDAI OR KIA.
Exterior lighting, Jul 26, 2017
HEARD A NOISE IN THE TRUNK OF MY CAR WHILE I WAS DRIVING ON THE I WAS ON THE INTERSTATE. CHECKED THE BACK OF THE CAR AND THE RIGHT TAIL LIGHT ASSEMBLY WAS HANGING FROM THE CAR. THE ONLY THING KEEPING IT FROM FALLING OFF WERE THE LIGHT WIRES. THE PLASTIC BOLTS WERE COMPLETELY BROKEN OFF. CHECKED THE LEFT REAR ASSEMBLY AND WAS THE SAME. THE PLASTIC IS BROKEN AND BRITTLE. THIS COULD BE A MAJOR SAFETY ISSUE FOR ME AND THE OTHER DRIVERS ON THE ROADWAY. CALLED HYUNDAI AND OF COURSE THEY WERE NOT INTERESTED IN ASSISTING IN ANYWAY. NEVER BUY ANOTHER HYUNDAI.
Structure, Jul 25, 2017
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 HYUNDAI SONATA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE DOOR FAILED TO OPEN. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A LOCAL DEALER (SOUTH SHORE HYUNDAI, 360 SUNRISE HWY, VALLEY STREAM, NY 11581) WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE DOOR LOCK ACTUATOR FAILED AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 76,000. UPDATED 10/30/207*JS