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 This recall has been replaced by NHTSA recall number 22V-314.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: engine
773 reports, newest first. Show all
Electrical system, Engine, May 12, 2025
My car starts making noise then i pull over. my car completely shuts off and i tried to restart it, didn’t start. My engine i think is ruined
Fuel system, Gasoline, Engine, Apr 30, 2025
The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle inadvertently lost motive power. The contact was able to pull over to the shoulder of the roadway, where the vehicle failed to restart. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who diagnosed the vehicle with engine failure. The vehicle was not repaired. After investigating the failure, the contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 18V934000 (Engine, Fuel System, Gasoline); however, the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.
Electrical system, Engine, Fuel/propulsion system, Apr 21, 2025, fire
Unknown, caught fire.
Engine, Apr 8, 2025
The car engine was sputtering and the check engine light came on. I was notified by a repair shop that the problem may relate to an engine recall. I called Hyundai about the recall and they advised me to take the vehicle to Cardinale Hyundai in Corona. I did take it there. Testing showed that the issue was, in fact, the same issue that was part of the recall (I believe it is called the internal engine bearing failure). HOWEVER, the Hyundai dealer then advised that, due to owner neglect, the problem will not be fixed by Hyundai. I firmly dispute Hyundai's contention!
Engine, Apr 2, 2025
The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Sonata. The contact had received an undisclosed NHTSA recall campaign, and the vehicle was repaired under the recall. The contact stated that the check engine warning light had been illuminated since the vehicle was picked up from the dealer after the recall repair. The contact stated that on a separate occasion, the vehicle failed to start. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic where the vehicle was diagnosed and determined that the engine had seized. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact then towed the vehicle to the dealer. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The vehicle remained at the dealer and had not been driven since. The approximate failure mileage was 150,000.
Engine and engine cooling, Mar 20, 2025
The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the low oil warning light illuminated, the vehicle had been in for service just days prior to the warning light being illuminated. After a visual inspection of the oil dipstick, the contact observed that the oil level was abnormally low. The vehicle was not taken to the dealer or an independent mechanic. The vehicle was not repaired. After investigating the failure, the contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 17V226000 (Engine and Engine Cooling), but the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, a case was opened, and the contact was referred to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was 110,000.
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)
Power train, Engine, Mar 9, 2025
I had an issue on my car where engine oil level is getting low day by day, then I have visited service center to solve they have said to change spark plug, pcv value and also done fuel induction service , said me to come after 1000 miles then after I had a another problem where my car RPM is increasing and speed is getting low. I have visited the service center again saying catalytic converter issue and asked me to pay 3000$ to do repair before that I have paid 700$ but mentioning you one thing till now I have spend 2000$ for the same issue what was happen. Today as now my car is issue to move in toll road it is very hard to move. And also Hyundai is denying my request and saying me I am out of warranty. My car has 94000 miles as for today. Please help me out from this I am struggling with the issue.
Other or unspecified, Service brakes, Engine, Mar 7, 2025
submitting a formal complaint to NHTSA regarding unresolved safety defects in my 2013 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid. Despite Safety Recall 251 issued in December 2023 for an ABS fire hazard, my vehicle continues to experience sudden loss of acceleration, engine shutdowns, and persistent dashboard warnings. Failed Recall Repairs & Lack of Transparency Since receiving the recall notice, my vehicle has been serviced multiple times at Thompson Hyundai in Dundalk, MD, yet the defects persist. When I requested service records to verify recall repairs, I was told that Thompson Hyundai’s acquisition by Heritage prevents them from providing full documentation—only three edited records missing key details. This raises concerns about: 1.Whether recall repairs are actually resolving safety defects. 2.Hyundai’s failure to maintain proper repair documentation. 3.The risk that other Hyundai vehicles remain unsafe due to incomplete recall fixes. Life-Threatening Breakdowns & Financial Hardship Since Hyundai’s supposed “fix,” my vehicle has broken down at least eight times, including major highways and intersections. On [XXX], on [XXX], my car suddenly lost power in heavy traffic, nearly causing a multi-vehicle accident. As a result: •I lost my job due to missed work from repeated breakdowns. •I suffered severe emotional distress, including PTSD-like symptoms and asthma attacks requiring medical attention. •I am facing financial instability from lost income and costly rental vehicles. Request for NHTSA Investigation Given Hyundai’s failure to resolve these defects, I urge NHTSA to: 1.Investigate whether Hyundai’s recall repairs fully resolve the defect. 2.Review dealerships’ recall documentation practices. 3.Determine if further regulatory action is needed to protect consumers. I am pursuing direct resolution with Hyundai but am bringing this to NHTSA in the interest of public safety. I appreciate your review and look forward to your response. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Engine and engine cooling, Mar 4, 2025, crash
The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle lost automotive power. The contact stated that while reaching over the passenger seat, the gear shifter was knocked into a lower gear and would not switch back into the drive gear. In addition, the contact stated she managed to pull over the shoulder of the road before going over a curb and crashing into a grass field which brought the vehicle to a stop. No warning lights illuminated. A police report was not filed. The contact did not sustain or seek medical attention for any injuries. The vehicle was towed to a local independent mechanic where it was left for diagnoses and repairs. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 17V226000 (Engine and Engine Cooling) however the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 83,000.
Engine and engine cooling, Mar 3, 2025
The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated that there was white smoke coming from the exhaust pipe. While driving at approximately 45 MPH, the vehicle stalled. The contact coasted right into the neighborhood and stopped in front of the neighbor's home. The vehicle remained parked. The contact stated that the front driver’s side seat belt failed to lock in the latch intermittently. The contact spoke with the dealer, before the failure, who confirmed that the vehicle was not included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 17V226000 (Engine and Engine Cooling); because the vehicle was previously inspected under the recall and it was deemed that the engine did not need to be replaced, and that the recall was closed. The dealer was not contacted after the failure. The vehicle was diagnosed or repaired for engine or seat belt failures. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was 169,000.
Other or unspecified, Engine, Mar 2, 2025
While driving the vehicle under normal conditions, the vehicle lost power. Eps, and oil lights came on engine completely shut off. I changed belt, alternator and starter. It rolled over 3 times and seized. There doesnt appear to be a rod slung, or cracks in the block, but ive spent almost 2000 dollars trying to get it running and have another 1300 in parts waiting to rebuild the motor.I know there is a recall on the motors, but never received mail or any attempt at engine replacement.
Engine, Feb 12, 2025
Burns excessive oil/excessive oil consumption
Engine, Jan 30, 2025
I have a recall for the rod bearing , I drop off my car at AutoNation Hyundai North Richland Hills . Before 3 days to replace the engine because last time I changed the oil on Firestone the technician show me a metal on the oil and that coming from the rod bearing wear also when I cold start the vehicle I listen a rod bearing noise coming from the engine for a while , AutoNation Hyundai North Richland Hills called me today and say that the engine pass the rod bearing test and that is not right maybe it’s now but will not last like that , also i don’t want to drive the vehicle with this safety recall and get crashed when the bearing fail . I just need a help to replace this engine due to this recall I didn’t pickup the vehicle from the dealer location till I got a response from you .
Engine and engine cooling, Engine, Jan 28, 2025
The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated that over time the vehicle became slow to start and that the engine was rattling and shaking abnormally at start-up. The contact stated while driving at undisclosed speeds, the check engine warning light remained illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where the vehicle was diagnosed and the contact was informed that there was oil inside cylinder #1, causing a loss of compression. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 17V226000 (ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING); however, the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 125,000.
Engine, Jan 23, 2025
Fuel pump failed on long distance travel. Never been notified of issue. Fuel failed to inject itself as vehicle loss power. Along with engine.
Electrical system, Vehicle speed control, Engine, Jan 6, 2025
my car broke down and now the car does not pick up speed and rattles when i press the gas pedal.
Engine, Dec 28, 2024
Having to add 1-2 quarts of oil per month and engine knock noise has started and been louder when oil is low.
Engine and engine cooling, Dec 18, 2024
The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated that the check engine warning light was illuminated. While driving approximately 55-60 MPH, the vehicle lost motive power, and the vehicle decelerated. The vehicle regained power, and the contact was able to continue driving at slower speeds. While driving at various speeds, the vehicle stalled and went into LIMP Mode before regaining power approximately 3 to 4 times. The vehicle was taken to the dealer who confirmed that the VIN was not under recall. The contact had spoken with another dealer, Sheehy Hyundai of Waldorf (2910 Robert S. Crain Hwy, Waldorf, MD 20601) and it was confirmed that the VIN was not under recall. The vehicle had not been diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was informed of the failure and opened a case. The manufacturer related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 17V226000 (Engine and Engine Cooling); and referred the contact to the dealer. The failure mileage was 126,000.
Engine, Dec 16, 2024
The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated while driving at approximately 40 MPH, there was an abnormal sound coming from the engine. The contact stated that the failure occurred increasingly while driving at higher speeds on the freeway. The contact could not confirm whether there was any warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where it was determined that the abnormal sound was coming from the engine base. The mechanic informed the contact that they could not repair the vehicle. The dealer and the manufacturer were not notified of the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The failure mileage was unknown.
Engine, Dec 5, 2024
Hybrid system issue. Do not drive, stop safely.
Engine, Nov 17, 2024
Hyundai extended warranty on 2011-2014 due to premature engine failure. On [XXX] my car suddenly lost all power and died on in breakdown lane of highway. Currently vehicle is at colonial Hyundai in new london CT awaiting a decision that premature engine failure issue that falls within warranty is the issue. When tow trunk driver dropped off car at mechanic he smelt smoke from under the hood he informed me INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Electrical system, Engine, Fuel/propulsion system, Nov 7, 2024, fire
2013 Hyundai Sonata engine caught on fire after being replaced TWICE.
Engine, Oct 25, 2024
Vehicle had been low on oil for multiple months and was brought to the dealership and then to independent body shop for repair. Low oil light NEVER came on, but vehicle initially leaking oil (puddle on floor under car). Car serviced every 3 months/miles. While driving on highway, engine started knocking, and the MIL (malfunction indicator light started blinking). Knocking got louder and all sensor lights illuminated. Pulled off side of road and waited for tow truck. Attempted to drive to safer location off highway to wait. Car towed home. Would not start next day. Jumped battery and MIL light came back on and knocking sound continued. Car towed to mechanic who performed diagnostic and advised that the Rod Knock was broken and engine would need to be replaced. Vehicle has approximately 130,000 miles, however was running perfectly prior to this incident.
Power train, Engine, Aug 31, 2024
I have a 2013 Hyundai sonata in which the engine was recalled close to about 2 years ago. About 3 days ago my engine just randomly gave out on the highway in rush hour traffic the middle of me driving. And now I am without a vehicle and my car is sitting at lake Norman Hyundai dealership.