2013 Hyundai Sonata
Problems, recalls and owner-reported issues
Engine is the leading concern among 1,910 owner complaints filed for this model year. This is the 2nd highest complaint count among 26 Sonata model years with reports.
Of the 2013 reports, 93 involved a crash and 97 involved a fire. 77 people were injured and 1 person died.
What owners report most often
Recalls and investigations
Fuel system, gasoline, delivery, hoses, lines/piping, and fittingsMay 6, 2022
Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2013-2014 Sonata vehicles. The low pressure fuel hose that connects the low pressure fuel pump to the direct injection fuel pump may crack over time, due to heat generated within the engine compartment.
A cracked fuel hose may leak fuel, which can increase the risk of a fire.
Dealers will replace the low pressure fuel hose, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed October 10, 2022. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 227. This recall replaces NHTSA recall number 20V-121. Vehicles previously repaired under recall 20V-121 that did not receive a replacement fuel hose will need to have this new recall remedy performed.
Campaign 22V312000 on NHTSA.gov
Fuel system, gasoline, delivery, hoses, lines/piping, and fittingsFeb 28, 2020
Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2013-2014 Sonata vehicles. The low pressure fuel hose that connects the low pressure fuel pump to the direct injection fuel pump may crack over time due to heat generated within the engine compartment.
If the fuel line cracks, a fuel leak can occur, increasing the risk of a fire.
Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the low-pressure fuel hose for damage or leaking, replacing it as necessary. If no damage or leaking is found, heat-protective tape will be installed. Repairs will be performed free of charge. The recall began August 10, 2020. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 189. This recall has been replaced by NHTSA recall number 22V-314.
Campaign 20V121000 on NHTSA.gov
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
Engine and engine cooling, engineMar 31, 2017
Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2013-2014 Sonata and Santa Fe Sport vehicles. Machining errors during the engine manufacturing process may cause premature bearing wear within the engine.
Bearing wear may result in the engine seizing, increasing the risk of a crash.
Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the engine, replacing the engine short block, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began June 2017. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-800-633-5151. Hyundai's number for this recall is 162.
Campaign 17V226000 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
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
Air bags, side/windowJul 24, 2012
Hyundai is recalling certain model year 2012-2013 Hyundai Sonata passenger cars, manufactured from January 24, 2012, through June 21, 2012. The curtain side airbags on these vehicles may inflate without deployment command due to an error during manufacturing.
The curtain airbag may inflate without deployment command and increase the risk of injury to occupants of the vehicle. Additionally, an unexpected deployment would be a significant driver distraction and would limit the driver's visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.
Hyundai dealers will notify owners, and dealers will replace the curtain side airbags free of charge. This recall began on August 31, 2012. Owners may contact Hyundai at 1-800-633-5151.
Campaign 12V352000 on NHTSA.gov
Representative owner complaints: air bags
102 reports, newest first. Show all
Steering, Air bags, Service brakes, Aug 10, 2026
My 2013 Hyundai Sonata (VIN [XXX]) suffered a driver's airbag clock spring failure, completely disabling the primary restraint safety system. ABS light was on, the horn and all other electronics on the steering wheel were not functioning. All symptoms indicated in the recall This vehicle is explicitly covered under Hyundai Extended Warranty Campaign TXXA/TXXJ for 15 years/unlimited miles. However, Hyundai's validation systems are actively rejecting my VIN and blocking my federal right to a cost-free safety remedy or repair reimbursement. I replaced clock-spring and mechanic suggested i check into the recall. I attached receipt for repairs INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Electrical system, Air bags, Jul 8, 2026
The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated that while driving at 60 MPH, the airbag warning light illuminated, and the horn failed to engage as intended. Additionally, the vehicle failed to respond when the accelerator pedal was depressed. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed that the brake vacuum pump was not operating correctly and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired by replacing the clock spring. The contact related the failure to a clock spring warranty extension TSB; however, the VIN was excluded. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and offered no assistance. The failure mileage was 124,000.
Air bags, Jun 1, 2026
The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated while occupying the front driver's seat of the parked vehicle, the air bag suddenly deployed without impact. The contact stated that the air bag warning light might have been illuminated. The air bag hit the contact's face. The contact sustained a stinging sensation from the right side of the face and forehead, headaches and moderate neck pain. The contact did not seek medical assistance. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was determined that the driver's air bag, the air bag module and clockspring needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 168,000.
Air bags, Engine, Fuel/propulsion system, May 8, 2026
I went shopping notice needed gasoline filled the tank 3/4 the next day I smell gasoline on My2013 Sonata Hybrid VIN [XXX] inside the car and I did not notice any light alerts etc., just the smell of gasoline inside the car. I ask for a ride I was scare to drive to the dealer on Monday 5/6/26 around 12:30 pm I called the dealer I was gonna dropped the car they told me diagnostic would take 3 days , I was afraid to cut on fire since my gas left a big stain and was wet gasoline in the parking lot at work., I called Hyundai USA mentioned the problem i notice there is a recall for gas pump leaking and causes gas tank to crack Recall for 17V-226 for fuel pump leaking 0n Hyundai sonatas hybrid 2011-2016 my car is in the Hyundai Dealership [XXX] [XXX] They called me telling me my gas tank is cracked cost of repair labor 2800.00 and 280.00 diagnostic charge and is ready for pick in 30 min No recalls I must pay for this service INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Air bags, Jan 12, 2026
Our 2012 Hyundai Sonata (VIN [XXX] ) has experienced several cracks in the dashboard area of the vehicle. We know this is a reported common problem with this vehicle and some information says its related to both heat and sun exposure. However, my wife has always used sunshades everywhere she travels and the car has been parked in the garage when its not in operation. We are also concerned that this could be a safety issue if the air bag ever deployed in an accident. The dealership where we purchased and Hyundai Corporate have denied our claims. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Air bags, Other or unspecified, Dec 15, 2025
My car has a severely cracked dashboard which could cause reduced structural integrity and an increased risk of debris and shrapnel being deployed in the event of an accident. The dashboard is a structural component designed to help absorb and distribute some of the forces in a collision. Cracks can compromise this ability to perform this function potentially increasing the force experienced by the occupants and the other parts of the vehicle. It can also cause increased risk of debris and shrapnel. During a collision the cracked dashboard may break apart more easily causing sharp or jagged pieces to become projectiles inside of the cabin these fragments can pose a serious injury risk to occupants. It can also result in impaired airbag deployment. Many vehicles have airbags in the dashboard a severely cracked dashboard could obstruct or improperly deploy airbags for example the airbag may not fully deploy reducing its effectiveness and the dashboard may puncture or otherwise interfere with the airbag as it inflates creating additional safety hazards. Cracks may expose sharp edges or materials under the dashboard which could harm occupants during a collision, especially in areas where passengers may come into contact with the dashboard. A cracked dashboard could also cause a compromised electrical system dashboards house numerous electrical systems, sensors, and controls cracks could indicate underlying damage to these components. In a collision, these systems may fail or behave unpredictably which could further reduce safety features. Cracked dashboards present a significant risk during a collision and should be addressed by the manufacturer promptly to ensure its customer safety.
Air bags, Oct 11, 2025
The airbag indicator light for the driver came on after I got into the car. The light being on means the airbag protection system for the driver is off. This occurred at about 137,000 miles. I called my closest Hyundai dealership, Eckert Hyundai, within a month to report the problem and I was told by the dealership that there was no recall on the vehicle regarding the issue I was reporting. I have been driving a vehicle that will not protect me in any type of collision.
Air bags, Sep 28, 2025
The Air bag light came on on the dashboard of my 2013 Hyundai and wouldn’t go off. When I took it to the local Hyundai dealership, they diagnosed the problem as the airbag clock spring. I asked if there was a recall for the clock spring, and was told no. They install a new OM Clock to fix the problem, and it cost me $805.77. When I returned home, I did my own research and found there was a recall for the Clock Spring in 2011 - 2013 Hyundai Sonatas, but only for certain VIN Numbers. I then contacted the Service manager who confirmed that the recall is only for certain VIN numbers. Since Hyundai know this is a problem, why not cover the repairs for all Sonatas with the problem. It’s unfair for they to cherry pick certain VIN numbers for repair and deny others with the same problem.
Air bags, Sep 16, 2025
The airbag warning light on the dash is illuminated. Diagnostic code B1481 Driver airbag resistance too high.
Air bags, Jul 31, 2025
Srs light on. Problem code indicates high resistance on driver's side air bag. Dealer said it was the airbag control module, but refused to give me the actual estimate or anything in writing other than problem description. There was a recall for other 2013 sonata airbag control modules, mine was not included apparently, but it has the same issue as the recalled ones. Dealer wants $3000 to replace the module.
Air bags, Apr 23, 2025, crash
The contact owned a 2013 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated that while driving approximately 35 MPH, the front driver's side air bag unexpectedly deployed without an impact to the vehicle. The air bag warning light illuminated prior to the incident. The contact then crashed into the rear of a utility trailer, where it came to a stop. The contact broke a tooth. The paramedics were called and performed a check; however, the contact did not go to the hospital or urgent care. A police report was filed. The vehicle was towed to a tow yard. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The insurance company was contacted and declared the vehicle a total loss. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 140,000.
Air bags, Engine, Fuel/propulsion system, Mar 19, 2025
On [XXX], in Washington, D.C., my 2013 Hyundai Sonata experienced sudden engine failure, leaving the vehicle inoperable. My goodwill repair request was denied within 30 minutes, without a proper inspection of the rod bearings (a known failure point covered under the TXXI extended warranty) or the fuel pipe recall—a known issue that could pose a fire hazard. Hyundai cited suspected maintenance neglect, but I have documentation of regular synthetic oil changes. Despite having over 200,000 miles, a Firestone inspection from September 2024 confirmed the vehicle was in good condition prior to the failure. Additionally, Hyundai Theta II engines are widely known to suffer from excessive oil consumption, a defect that can lead to premature engine failure even in well-maintained vehicles. Hyundai has replaced engines in vehicles with similar mileage under the same extended warranty, yet in this case, no proper inspection was conducted before denial. Safety Concerns: The fuel pipe recall was not inspected, raising concerns about whether unresolved recall defects are leading to engine failures or fire risks. The airbag clock spring, covered under Hyundai’s TXXA extended warranty, was not inspected, despite the airbag light being illuminated, potentially affecting airbag deployment in a crash. The vehicle failed without warning lights or error messages, creating an unsafe situation. Hyundai’s failure to inspect recall-related issues before denying repairs could impact other affected vehicles on the road. I request that the NHTSA: Ensure Hyundai properly inspects recall-related components before denying repairs. Investigate whether Hyundai is improperly denying warranty and recall-related repairs, even in cases where similar vehicles have received replacements. Determine if the unresolved fuel pipe recall and airbag clock spring defect pose broader safety risks. This issue has been reported to Hyundai corporate, but no proper inspection has been performed. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Steering, Air bags, Feb 28, 2025
MY HYUNDAI HAS A LOOSE STEERING WHEEL WITH AN AIR BAG LIGHT ON IT. SO WHEN YOU DRIVE THE STEERING IS WEAK. I RECEIVED A NOTICE THAT THEIR WAS A PROBLEM WITH THE STEERING IN RECALL, BUT NOW ITS NOT FOUND. WHY? MY AIR BAG I BELIEVE IS NOT GOING TO WORK BECAUSE THE LIGHT IS ON FOR AIR BAG.
Air bags, Other or unspecified, Jul 11, 2024
The dashboard is cracking I have been online and I've seen other Hyundai owners experiencing the same thing. Multiple concerns 1. cracks in the dashboard effecting defroster for windshield and not being to see already having issues 2. airbags no deploying correctly for driver or passenger in the front seats. 3. I've owned several cars, including two (2) KIA's and NEVER had this happen (1989 Ford, Festiva aka KIA in other parts of the world, and a 2000 Kia Sephia, both vehicles had over 200k in mileage and dashboard NEVER cracked the split like this.
Air bags, Apr 24, 2024, crash
The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed and passing through an intersection, another vehicle involved in a high-speed chase failed to stop at a stop sign. As a result, the contact's vehicle was stuck on the front passenger side door, sending the vehicle careening to the shoulder of the roadway and coming to a complete stop after colliding with a parked vehicle. All air bags were deployed, excluding the driver's and passenger's side curtain air bags, which could have possibly prevented and/or lessened the severity of the injuries the contact sustained. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was towed to a tow yard, where it remained until the contact regained possession. The vehicle was not taken to the dealer or an independent mechanic. The vehicle was not repaired. A police report was filed, and injuries were reported. The contact was transported to an area hospital, where he received emergency surgery to repair three fractured vertebrates in his neck as well as contusions to his face, which required an extensive hospital stay. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, and the vehicle was inspected; however, it was determined that no malfunction had occurred. The failure mileage was 100,000.
Air bags, Mar 18, 2024
Vehicle was left in care of dealership service department after critical failure of engine. Determined that recall 162 was responsible and Hyundai would afford the repair. Vehicle at dealership for 5 months until repair could be scheduled. Repair complete, dealership advised us that the airbag light was illuminated. Technician performed "courtesy" diagnostic to read codes. Codes B1329 and B1331; front impact sensor and passenger communication error. Neither code is historic for the vehicle and only displayed after service from dealership.
Air bags, Feb 28, 2024
The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated that the air bag warning light was illuminated. Additionally, the horn was inoperable. The contact stated that while the vehicle was at the dealer for a software update, the dealer was notified of the failure. The dealer diagnosed that the clockspring had failed and informed the contact that the VIN was not included in a recall. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact related the failure to an unknown recall. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 135,000.
Air bags, Feb 2, 2024
Seatbelt retention sensor not working. Not covered for seatbelt repair.
Air bags, Nov 4, 2023, crash
My airbag light came on mechanic said it's rc174 and tsb [XXX] is the # want to know if it's covered or if there's a recall on it would love a respond asap taking it to dealer in Honolulu on the 12 Dec. appt. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Air bags, Sep 8, 2023
The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the air bag warning light illuminated, and then flashed off and on. The contact called the local dealer and was informed that the next available appointment was February 2024. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact stated that she had to adjust the seat to remove the steering wheel lock, which might have caused the failure. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was unknown.
Air bags, Seat belts, Engine, Aug 10, 2023
The engine knocking plus seat belt doesn’t work
Air bags, Engine, May 17, 2023, crash
Something with the motor
Air bags, Seat belts, May 15, 2023
The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated that she had initially received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 18V137000 (Seat Belts, Air Bags). The vehicle was taken to the dealer and the recall repair was performed. The contact stated that one year after the recall repair was performed, the air bag warning light illuminated. The contact linked the failure to the recall. The dealer and the manufacturer were notified of the failure and informed the contact that the failure was not related to recall and that the at vehicle was out of warranty. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was 92,714.
Air bags, Vehicle speed control, Jan 19, 2023
The air bag light is on. None of the functions/buttons on the right side of my steering wheel are working. It has not been inspected by anyone.
Air bags, Nov 21, 2022, crash
The contact owns a 2012 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated that while driving at approximately 65 MPH, the vehicle crashed into a deer. During the crash, the front end of the vehicle was severely damaged but the air bags did not deploy. The driver sustained a head contusion, headache, and torso discomfort. The vehicle was later towed away. The cause of the failure was not determined. The local dealer and manufacturer were not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 240,000.