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 This recall has been replaced by NHTSA recall number 22V-314.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.
Fuel/propulsion system, Sep 13, 2021
After purchasing my vehicle my engine seized and needed to be replaced in 01/2021. Recently my car started to smell like gasoline, I am told it is an issue with the fuel pump on the engine. There is gasoline going all over the engine making it a big fire hazard.
Engine, Sep 9, 2021
The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated that while driving approximately 65 MPH, a clunking noise was present coming from the engine before the vehicle stalled. The vehicle was towed to the local dealer who diagnosed that the engine had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The contact was informed that the vehicle was included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 17V226000 (Engine and Engine Cooling) however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The local dealer was contacted, and it was confirmed that the part was not yet available. 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. Parts distribution disconnect. The failure mileage was 57,000.
Fuel/propulsion system, Sep 8, 2021
Vehicle shut off while driving on the freeway while gas gauge showed 1/4 tank full. There was no warning light indicator or anything. Vehicle would not turn back on until additional gas was added to the gas tank. The vehicle shutting off unexpectedly is dangerous to not only myself and my passengers but other drivers around me as well. Gas gauge also does not reflect accurately when gas is being added to the tank. Called the dealer and explained that this is an issue in other 2013 Hyundai Sonata and they said it’s not vin number specific and refused to service it.
Steering, Sep 8, 2021
Steering wheel sticks at all speeds. Also, car often veers left or right then when correcting the steering will stick and I will have to jerk the wheel in the correction direction. This happens everyday. At high speeds it can almost feel as if I do not have full control of the car. Also when decelerating from high speeds the steering will shake. I take the highway often and it is at those time that I feel my safety and the safety of other drivers is at risk. I have went to my dealership (Universal Hyundai) with this complaint at least 3-4 times and they have told me there is no apparent issue. There has been no warning lamps, this issue first started happening in 2018.
Fuel/propulsion system, Sep 7, 2021
Engine replaced by Hyundai for recall 4/2021. Gas is leaking from high presser pipe directly on top of the engine. Hyundai customer service says I did not meet requirements for Recall 180. Dealer who replaced engine says covered by warranty and could be faulty part and not installation issue. Teen drivers could have been killed driving the car when gas, leaking directly onto the engine, started smoking. They stopped vehicle before gas could spark. We have video of gas leak when car not running. Medlin Hyundai in Rocky Mount said gas was "spewing from the high pressure pipe onto the engine".
Engine, Sep 2, 2021, fire
The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated that while driving at 30 - 35 mph, the vehicle stalled while going up a hill. The contact was able to use the emergency brakes to pull over into a ditch, in order to stop the vehicle. No warning lights were illuminated. There was dark gray smoke coming from the engine and a burnt odor was detected when the contact opened the hood. The vehicle was towed to the contact's residence. The vehicle was not diagnosed nor repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and opened a case and informed the contact that they would send her case over to NHTSA. The contact was waiting on instructions from the manufacturer on what to do with the vehicle. The failure mileage was approximately 117,000.
Engine, Aug 31, 2021
Our engine has seized up according to our mechanic. They replaced the gasket on the oil pan and found metal shavings. Then just a week later the engine seized up. We had the dealer look at at back in 2017 and they only did a software update. Does this qualify for the engine recall?
Engine, Aug 30, 2021
I was driving and my vehicle started cutting out. When I hit the accelerator, the vehicle hesitated and did not want to go, I had the gas pedal push down to the floor, it eventually kicked in. I traveled a short distance and then it did the same thing, almost coming to a stop. The engine started making a rattling-banging noise and then the Malfunction indicator light came on.I was at a busy intersection and proceeded to try to make a left turn to get out of traffic and to the Dobbs repair shop across the street.As I attempted to Cross the two lanes of oncoming traffic my vehicle stalled and shut completely down. The oncoming traffic had to stop in order to avoid striking my vehicle. My vehicle was stalled blocking both oncoming lanes of traffic. I put the vehicle into “Park” and restarted it by hitting the automatic start button. When I accelerated the vehicle barley rolled, maybe 5 mph? It rolled enough to remove me from danger from being stuck. I then made another immediate left turn into the Dobbs parking lot. The vehicle then began to pick up speed, I drove around to the front of Dobbs, parked the vehicle and dropped it off to get the problem diagnosed. I was called the next morning and told that it was possible engine damage and that it would have to be towed to the dealer. I called Auffenberg in Ofallon Illinois on Friday 08/27/21 at 0923hrs.and was told that I needed to speak to the service manager Bill Gillespie for approval. I left him a voice message. He never returned my call so I left a second message at 5:51 pm. On Monday 08/30/21 at 12:45 pm after still never receiving a return call, I called and left Mr. Gillespie a third voice message. In the messages I left I informed him of the problem and also that I was stranded without having another vehicle. I filed a case with Hyundai online, case #xxxx5097. I later spoke to a person who said they were told that there were 30 other cars at this dealer with blown engines and that there is a 3 month repair wait!
Engine, Aug 30, 2021
On Sat 8/28/21, while driving, Without any warning or engine lights, the engine stopped running while I was driving on the road at 45 mph. I was able to pull over safely and the car would not restart. I had it towed to a nearby auto shop, the diagnostic shows fuel pump not turning on. I've had this car for 14 months with no issues until now. I could've been injured or crashed had I been on an interstate. It will need to be towed again to a dealership for fuel pump replacement. I've lost wages due to this incident and no idea how to pay for this costly repair.
Steering, Aug 29, 2021
The steering column is clanging over bumps and when steering which is a failure in the plastic steering shaft coupler.This coupler looks like an impeller.It is situated between the steering column shaft and the electric steering motor.The coupler is disintegrating and will lead to steering failure and high probability to death or injury of the cars occupants.This coupling failure is commom and found in perhaps thousands of Hyundai vehicles.A recall needs to be mandated immediately.If it is ignored then Hyundai needs to prepare for the lawsuits that will ensue
Electrical system, Aug 28, 2021
Hybrid system warning light comes on at random times and sometimes the car won't start.
Service brakes, Aug 27, 2021
my brakes stop working . The dealership advised that the HECU needed to be replaced. There are several incidents showing online with the same dangerous problem. at home going into my apartment garage the car just started rolling back onto on coming traffic. the brakes just stopped working, I swerved to avoid being hit. The car is at the dealership. There was not any working for this ever expensive problem,
Other or unspecified, Aug 26, 2021
I was replacing my windshield washer fluid and the hydraulic shock on the hood failed without warning and the hood slammed down on my left arm
Engine, Aug 26, 2021
The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated that it was discovered that the engine was quickly losing oil even though there were no leaks found. The contact stated that there was an abnormal knocking sound coming from the engine. The vehicle was towed to the dealer who diagnosed that the engine rod bearing had failed, causing damage to the engine. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The contact indicated that the vehicle was included in the NHTSA campaign number: 17V226000 (Engine) and that the vehicle had experienced the failure listed in the recall. The failure mileage was 130,000.
Electrical system, Vehicle speed control, Engine, Aug 25, 2021
When accelerating to 65 mph, the check engine light came on, and the vehicle stopped accelerating. Took the vehicle in to a mechanic, who stated there was poor acceleration at high RPM's and the car had jerking symptoms during hard throttle. For the engine diagnosis there was a fault code for the knock sensor found. Very low oil levels were in crankcase, no additional fault codes found, abnormal noises. Signs of internal engine problem low oil pressure suspected, no apparent lubricant to upper part of the engine. Recommended replacing the engine. The mechanic estimated the car was also losing oil faster than it should've. Prior to this incident occuring, the car has been regularly maintenanced at the dealership. Car was taken in to an independent mechanic to be looked at because dealership service repair did not have an opening for 2 weeks to look at the car. The lower acceleration could cause an accident on the freeway if driving at high speeds and the acceleration malfunctions without warning. No other persons have looked at the car yet. There was no lights, symptoms, or messages indicating a problem prior to this incident happening. This was the first time this incident has happened with the vehicle.
Exterior lighting, Aug 24, 2021
The lights bulbs have burned out multiple times. The hole where the bulb fits is misshapen and is very hard to install new light bulbs (practically impossible). Reported to dealership. They said it is a known issue and that Hyundai will not fix it now. Told me to buy new lights. I did that and the bulbs are still burning out. The socket the bulb goes into is melted, the spot the light bulb goes into the light is melted. This is not safe. I have put over 10 light bulbs in the trail lights in a little over 3 years.
Engine and engine cooling, Aug 24, 2021
The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated while driving the check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the independent mechanic where the oil was drained, and the contact was informed that the connecting rod bearing was faulty. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact mentioned that when he drove away from the independent mechanic, the engine seized. The contact did not feel safe driving the vehicle. A dealer was not contacted. The manufacturer was contacted however, there was no response. The contact referenced NHTSA Campaign Number: 17V226000 (Engine and Engine Cooling) as a possible solution to the failure however, the VIN was not included. The failure mileage was approximately 140,000.
Vehicle speed control, Service brakes, Aug 22, 2021
The brake pedal bushing has completely deteriorated and caused my car to be able to shift gears without touching the brake. It also caused me to be unable to use cruise control (which I found out driving down the interstate thank god I wasn’t in an accident) and caused me to be unable to park my car. Caused my battery to die and left me stranded at work. No pieces to remedy to issue are available. And Hyundai has said there was a recall with earlier models (up to year 2011) my car is 2013 and is obviously effected. I have now had a recall on y seat belts, air bags, engine, seat belt anchors, fuel line transmission fluid sensor and now my brakes. I’m not sure what is actually ok with this model at this point!!!
Structure, Aug 22, 2021
White paint peeling off from the car.
Engine, Aug 20, 2021
The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated while her sister was driving approximately 65 MPH, the vehicle suddenly lost power and would not accelerate with the check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic who diagnosed that the engine was faulty and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer and local dealer were notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 78,000.
Other or unspecified, Aug 19, 2021
Trunk latch mechanism is not responding to either manual or sensor key
Exterior lighting, Aug 18, 2021
Tail lights are CONSTANTLY going out. This is the second time over a 20 day period that I replaced them. It’s not normal. I’m afraid to drive at night due to this matter, as I do not want another vehicle colliding with my rear end. The bulbs are brand new but yet it’s still goes out. This matter should be looked into immediately as it is a safety hazard for nighttime drivers.
Other or unspecified, Aug 18, 2021
I purchased a used 2013 Hyundai Sonata and in less than a month it was stolen! The police told me that Hyundai has a huge problem with vehicle theft because the manufacturer has built in design flaws that make it the easiest car in the world to steal. The thieves did not even have to break my window even though they were completely up and the car was locked! From what I see on the internet, Hyundai has never addressed the problem and should have voluntarily recalled the vehicles and fixed them! Why has this been allowed to happen when both the federal/state governments and NTSB are aware of such a gigantic problem that is causing extreme financial burden to Hyundai owners?
Other or unspecified, Aug 17, 2021
The Engine Seized and went into limp mode. This happens on June 2 2021. It effected the turbocharger and the Engine tube fuel line. It is covered under the recall. It is currently at Spradly Hyundai in Pueblo Colorado. I have been waiting for 3 months to have it fixed and they had no loaner so I have had to pay for a rental before I got the rental I lost my job because I didn't have a way to get to work. I have spent almost 4,000 in rental which come to find out they only will pay upto 40.00 a day on a rental which there is no rental company that you can get a rental less then 92.00 a day. I have loss so much income and money because of this recall. I had just bought the car 5 weeks before this happened and I have not even been able to make my first car payment. So it will probably be repossed once I get it back. Thanks Hyundai I will never buy anouther car from this manufacturing company. I
Power train, Engine, Aug 15, 2021
After making a knocking noise for a few miles, the engine seized and the car completely stalled. I had to coast through traffic to stop on the side of the road. Would not start again. I towed the car to service department of Hyundai dealer in Lindon, Utah, who diagnosed a seized engine and is now assessing the seized engine for warranty coverage under the premature bearing wear recall.