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 This recall has been replaced by NHTSA recall number 22V-314.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
1,910 reports, newest first.
Engine and engine cooling, Electrical system, Sep 26, 2022
The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated that the instrument panel warning lights were blank. Additionally, the vehicle was consuming an excessive amount of engine oil. The contact called the local dealer but the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact stated the failure was related to NHTSA Campaign Number: 17V226000 (Engine and Engine Cooling). The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was unknown.
Exterior lighting, Service brakes, Sep 22, 2022
The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated that while operating the vehicle, the braking system malfunctioned and the vehicle would not immediately stop while depressing the brake pedal, causing the braking distance to be extended. Additionally, while operating the vehicle, the front headlights would flicker off and on. The cause of the failure was not yet determined. The vehicle was not repaired. The local dealer was notified of the failure but no assistance was offered. The manufacturer was not yet contacted. The failure mileage was 126,000.
Electrical system, Exterior lighting, Sep 22, 2022
When using the turn signal the headlights turn off. A search of the internet shows this is a common occurrence for the car as multiple people have posted on boards that this is the result of the multifunction switch. This is a highly dangerous situation for both the driver and/or other cars on the road as if you attempt to signal a turn or try to place the high beams on you will lose loss of sight due to the headlights shutting off. This should be listed as a recall item for the car.
Fuel system, Gasoline, Sep 20, 2022
The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Sonata. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V312000 (Fuel System, Gasoline) however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN Tool Confirms Parts Not Available.
Engine, Sep 20, 2022
Problem: Engine malfunctioned and lost power on freeway. Car didn't respond to accelerator. Yes the car is available for inspection upon request. Safety issue: Was forced to change lanes unsafely with decelerating car to access shoulder. At some point, engine started responding back. No the problem has not been reproduced yet. Scheduled dealer appointment. No - the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others? No - Were there any warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, and when did they first appear?
Exterior lighting, Sep 19, 2022
The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated noticed both bulbs of the taillights were inoperable. The contact stated that he was changing the bulbs and noticed that the bulb assemblies were melted on to the bulbs, not allowing for the bulbs to be removed. The vehicle was taken to the dealer who offered no assistance. The contact was informed that the repair had to be paid out of pocket. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was contacted but offered no assistance. The failure mileage was 15,000.
Electrical system, Exterior lighting, Sep 17, 2022
I have contacted the Hyundai headquarters several times, about what I believe to be an electrical problem in my vehicle. The lights (break and drive) in my vehicle continue to blow out, even after being replaced numerous times. My break light casing has melted, as a result of what I believe to be associated with a previous recall. This recall, caused break lights to remain on, which caused overheating and burning. I took my car to the dealership to service this problem after being instructed to do so be a representative. However, I was informed that there was no issue, that needed to be serviced. However, I continue to experience this issue. I have witnessed countless Hyundai’s being driven by other drivers and they too, seem to experiencing malfunctioning break lights. I even paid to have a diagnostic test completed at the Hyundai dealership, in an attempt to rectify the problem. However, I was informed the there was no electrical issue present. This is a huge safety concern, because driving without properly working lights, is illegal and I have received traffic violations for doing so. It is extremely unsafe, due to having the ability to cause accidents on the road. If other drivers are not aware of my vehicle stopping or even being on the road, due to improperly displayed lights. It creates a huge safety concern. Recently, I’ve begun to smell gas coming from my vehicle and then I received the recall notice associated with the fuel pump. Since then, I have received a second notice regarding this recall. Neither letter, addresses when my vehicle will be serviced. I am extremely nervous to drive my vehicle, due to the fuel leakage and the ability that it can cause a fire in my engine. I am extremely displeased with Hyundai, and I no longer want this vehicle. Since purchasing this car, there have been several recalls. Additionally, I have attempted to speak with Hyundai directly, and they have refused to assist me further.
Fuel system, Gasoline, Electrical system, Sep 16, 2022, fire
The contact owned a 2013 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated that while his daughter was driving 45 MPH, she saw flames coming from under the instrument panel on the passenger’s side. The contact stated that his daughter pulled over immediately and exited the vehicle. The contact stated that soon after his daughter went away from the vehicle, the vehicle caught on fire. The contact stated that no warning light was illuminated. The fire department was able to extinguish the flames. The contact stated that a police report was filed. There was no injury. The contact stated that the insurance company deemed the vehicle totaled. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The VIN was not available. The approximate failure mileage was 155,000.
Engine, Sep 16, 2022
Engine stalled on the highway. On inspection at a mechanic shop, it was discovered that the engine oil had dried out even though there were no leakages.
Engine, Fuel/propulsion system, Sep 13, 2022
The engine is burning oil again this is the second engine my car was part of the first recall after noticing how low n black my oil was I noticed it also smells like gasoline. Now I tried to get it in for the recall 227 part of recall 189, it hesitates to start will just stahl whenever n wherever it feels necessary I contacted Hyundai they said drop it off at dealership until it is repaired if no loaner was available then I would have to rent a car now that’s not even feasible considering I might not even get it back rent a car indefinitely that’s ridiculous and expensive. So it’s burning oil again, stahling out, has no power sometimes when u hit gas, oil smells of gas as well as my dipstick smells of gas as well.
Suspension, Sep 13, 2022
While driving the vehicle at approx 10 mph the coil spring on the front driver side strut broke causing the spring to slide down over the strut and immediately hit the tire causing noise and vibration. Unable to drive and had to be towed. Hyundai dealer diagnosed problem, admitted it's a common problem with sonatas and cost to repair $1,300.
Fuel system, Gasoline, Sep 12, 2022
The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated that he noticed a strong odor inside the cabin of the vehicle. No warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed that there was a leak in the fuel feedline at the direct injection fuel pump that needed to be replaced. The contact referenced NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V312000 (Fuel System, Gasoline). The vehicle was not repaired. The dealer was notified of the failure and the contact was informed that an appointment could not be scheduled until October 2022. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and the contact was provided a case number. The failure mileage was approximately 116,000.
Other or unspecified, Sep 11, 2022
While driving the car on the highway in heavy traffic with my family, the vehicle suddenly shuts off (turned off), then a warning light appeared, '"HYBRID SYSTEM WARNING SAFELY STOP AND DO NOT DRIVE'. Started it up again and now could only drive the vehicle at 5-10mph through heavy traffic. The vehicle would go no more than 10mph. We were in a dangerous situation as cars were driving at 40-60mph passing us. We drove all the way home 10 miles away at 5-10mph. After reading forums on this issue there were more posts regarding this same issue. Right now our vehicle is at the tonyhyundai at Waipio Gentry, Hawaii to be fixed. It has been there since August 1, 2022.
Engine, Sep 7, 2022
Engine failure, car seized in traffic
Fuel system, Gasoline, Sep 7, 2022
The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Sonata. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V312000 (Fuel System, Gasoline) however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The dealer was contacted and confirmed that the parts were not yet available. The manufacturer was notified of the issue and the contact was provided a case number. Parts distribution disconnect.
Power train, Service brakes, Fuel/propulsion system, Sep 6, 2022
While driving car started beeping and making noises - check engine light, brake light, lcd displayed brake warning and flashed "hybrid system warning! safely stop and do not drive". Brake pedal then went to floor, and engine power reduced. Re-starting the car only cleared the problem for a minute before the warning message re-occurs. Others have encountered this issue resulting in crashes. https://www.carproblemzoo.com/hyundai/sonata/2013/service-brakes-problems.php also reported here: https://www.carcomplaints.com/Hyundai/Sonata/2013/brakes/service_brakes.shtml
Engine, Sep 2, 2022
Engine stalled on highway. All lights on dash lit up. Was able to have it towed to dealership. Dealership agreed to replace engine at no cost.
Fuel system, Gasoline, Sep 1, 2022
The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Sonata. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V312000 (Fuel System, Gasoline) however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
Engine, Aug 31, 2022
Engine seized due to bad rod bearing
Service brakes, Aug 31, 2022
ON AUGUST THE 15TH MY CAR WAS GOING DOWN SHARPE RD IN BURLINGTON NC AT ABOUT 25-30 MPH GOING TOWARDS ROSS ST. I TRIED TO STOP ON MY BRAKES AND MY CAR WOULD NOT STOP.. AS I TRIED STOP IT I FELT MY BRAKE PEDDLE GO ALL THE WAY TO THE FLOOR. I WAS ABLE TO PULL MY CAR OFF THE ROAD AND SIT UNTIL I HAD A TOW TRUCK COME TOW IT HOME. I HAVE MY CAR AT CHRENSHAW HYUNDIA. I HAVE ALSO BEEN TRYING TO GET MY CAR SERVISED THROUGH THEM AND THEY HAVE ALWAYS BEEN BOOKED U. THAT CAUSES A LOT OF CAR issues when you have to wait on an appointment. I really need my car fixed and I do not have the kind if funds that they are asking.
Fuel/propulsion system, Aug 31, 2022
My fuel line is actively leaking. The dealerships told me that the car is under recall but there is no remedy at this time. At this point, I was told I am unable to drive my car and I just have to wait.
Other or unspecified, Fuel/propulsion system, Aug 27, 2022
My 2013 hyundai sonata was apart of the original fuel leak recall about a year ago. I went to my local hyundai dealership and to my knowledge they "fixed" the issue. Now there is another recall with "no remedy" as of yet. My car definitely has a leak as my entire cabin smells of gas, really bad to the point of headaches and getting nauseous. If you're sitting next to my vehicle you can also smell the gas leaking. This is so dangerous for my child & I and everyone my car is near as this could catch on fire! I took my vehicle to a local repair place to fix the issue and inspect my car and thats when I was made aware that this is infact a leaking hose & is apart of the new recall. The repair place would not fix it and told me to take it to hyundai, they also failed my inspection. I contacted hyundai in limerick pa and they said there is no solution or fix for it but then they said they would repair it but not under warranty and I would need to pay a couple hundred dollars to repair it which I cannot and should not have to do. Meanwhile my car is still not inspected due to this and is not legal for the road. The gas smell has been going on for 9 days, I have many witnesses including the repair shop. They kept all of it on file should I need to pursue legal help.
Exterior lighting, Aug 25, 2022
THE VEHICLE WILL NOT ACCELERATE WHEN PRESSING THE GAS THE TRACTION LIGHT IS ON AND THE TAILIGHTS STAY ON EVEN WHEN THE CAR IS OFF FOUND BRAKE LIGHTS STAYING ON DUE TO FAILED BRAKE PEDAL STOPPER. REPLACED BRAKE PEDAL STOPPER PER TSB 18-BE-010
Engine, Aug 25, 2022
My car is 9 years old with less than 111,000 miles and has been reliable with no major problems. In mid July, my car was running fine until it wouldn't start. My car had started right up 2 times earlier this day with no indication there was a problem. No warning lights of any sort had been on and the car seemed to be running normal. When the car wouldn't start I tried to jump it off in case it was the battery but after that failed I had to have the car towed. I had it towed to a mechanic who said the engine was seized and there was very little oil in the car. I had the oil changed regularly about every 3000-4000 miles and did not have an oil leak which meant the engine was burning and excessive amount of oil. I had to have the car towed a 2nd time from the mechanic to the dealership who also confirmed the engine had seized and found this had been a problem with various years of this model car. This is a safety issue considering the car gave no warning that something wasn't working properly and in danger of engine failure.
Engine, Aug 23, 2022
The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated while driving at 57 MPH, the accelerator pedal was depressed and the vehicle stalled. Several unknown warning lights were illuminated. The contact was able to veer to the side of the road. The contact saw white smoke coming from underneath the hood of the vehicle. The contact exited the vehicle and noticed a strong rubber-burning odor. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed that the engine had locked up. The contact associated the failure with NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V312000 (Fuel System, Gasoline). The vehicle was not repaired. The dealer and the manufacturer were notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 128,000.