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 This recall has been replaced by NHTSA recall number 22V-314.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, Feb 17, 2026
It is a known issue on several makes and years on Hyundais. excessive oil consumption. burning a quart every 375 miles. at one point we had no oil in the car at all. causing a potential major safety issue lubricating parts of the engine. etc. we have contacted Hyundai several times and brought to Hyundai dealer who has confirmed issue through a test. no warning that oil was low!
Steering, Other or unspecified, Service brakes, Feb 1, 2026, crash
Experienced sudden unintended acceleration causing my car to speed up, lose control, and crash into the vehicle in front of me.
Engine, Jan 16, 2026
Engine losing power and metal shavings in oil and engining shutting off
Engine, Jan 16, 2026
My 2013 Hyundai Sonata (VIN: [XXX] , 2.4L Theta II GDI engine) is experiencing symptoms consistent with the known Theta II engine defects covered under prior NHTSA recalls (e.g., 17V-226) and the related class action settlement for connecting rod bearing wear due to manufacturing debris restricting oil flow. The vehicle has begun exhibiting [describe your specific symptoms here, e.g.: "a loud metallic knocking/tapping noise from the engine that increases with RPM, especially during acceleration or at highway speeds; reduced engine power and hesitation; illumination of the check engine light and/or oil pressure warning light; excessive vibration; or sudden loss of power/stalling risk"]. These issues have [escalated/worsened over time or occurred suddenly while driving]. This poses a serious safety hazard because premature bearing wear can lead to complete engine seizure or stall without warning while the vehicle is in motion, potentially at highway speeds, resulting in loss of motive power, inability to maintain speed, or increased risk of collision, injury, or fatality. I have properly maintained the vehicle with regular oil changes using the recommended full synthetic oil [add if true: "and can provide service records showing no evidence of sludge or neglect"]. Despite submitting an appeal/claim under the Hyundai Theta Engine Class Action Settlement (Case Number XXX), I received confirmation on December 30, 2025, promising a decision within 14 business days, but as of January 16, 2026, there has been no response or update despite follow-up attempts. This ongoing delay prevents me from obtaining the necessary inspection, repair, or replacement under the extended warranty/safety coverage, leaving the vehicle in a potentially unsafe condition. I am requesting that NHTSA review this as part of the pattern of Theta II engine failures in 2011-2014 Hyundai Sonatas, which have led to thousands of similar complaints, recalls, and investigations into untimely INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Electrical system, Engine, Jan 14, 2026
While driving, vehicle slowed down abruptly and stopped. It was flashing “vehicle not safe to drive”. This happened before hen I got a new engine 2 years ago. Even with a new engine now it is happening again. I took it to Nissan Moreno Valley and paid $240 for diagnostic only to find out there a software update they had to do with a tablet. No work needed to be one just a software update hooked up to their system. Hyundai cooperate would not assist to over this fee. I like have crashed with this happening. The car just stops with no warning and it’s extremely dangerous how it cuts off while driving. Luckily I was on the streets not freeway.
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)
Electrical system, Exterior lighting, Jan 8, 2026
Wiring for headlights, and break lights has been malfunctioning. It is not a fuse and i have tried changing them to the point i keep extra in my trunk and still won't work. yes, available for inspection, I have been pulled over multiple times and was written a citation yesterday.
Engine and engine cooling, Fuel system, Gasoline, Jan 5, 2026
See attached document for complaint.
Engine, Jan 3, 2026
Engine Seized while driving - took to Hyundai dealership in Newport News VA and was advised it was negligence on our part. car was just inspected 2 months prior with no issues. All repairs were completed 05/23/2023 as required by Hyundai. Car does not start and they refuse to fix it. Car engine was recalled and never replaced. Information states it was but dealership refuses to provide records showing it was replaced since it was not. [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Fuel/propulsion system, Dec 30, 2025
I started smelling a little gas in the 20th. And on the 21st it got a lot worse so I took it to the dealership. This is the same place that replaced the engine because it failed and it was a recall. I let them know of the recall and they said it is not covered. They told me it was the high-pressure fuel line that connects to the pump. I have provided a picture of what the tech said.
Structure, Dec 29, 2025
About a year ago, I went out one morning, and the Rear Passenger Door would not engage or open. I tried using the key fob, as well as manual lock, trying to lock and unlock, and it still would not open. No one can get into the car from the outside. No one can get out of the car from the inside. This especially is very dangerous. Nothing has changed. I would like Hyundai to repair my door, since it is inoperable. In case of accident, fire, or other reason, someone would be locked in to their detriment.
Fuel/propulsion system, Dec 19, 2025
My vehicle had Hyundai Safety Recall 227 (fuel tube replacement) completed on December 7, 2022. After the recall repair, the same fuel-system symptoms returned. A Hyundai dealership diagnosed failure of the high-pressure fuel pump and high-pressure fuel pipe and stated the condition was critical and a safety risk due to fuel system involvement and potential fire hazard. Hyundai Motor America declined assistance, citing vehicle age and mileage, despite this being a recurring fuel-system safety issue following a recall repair. The vehicle continues to present fuel-related safety concerns, and operating the vehicle poses a potential fire risk. In addition, the estimated repair cost exceeds $2,000, which represents a significant financial hardship for a safety-related defect that occurred after a recall repair. I am submitting this complaint due to concern for vehicle safety and the recurrence of a fuel-system defect after a manufacturer safety recall.
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.
Engine, Dec 10, 2025
My 2013 Hyundai Sonata qualifies for a Lifetime Warranty engine replacement under the Theta II Class Action Settlement. The dealership is refusing coverage unless I provide maintenance records, even though the settlement prohibits denial based solely on missing records or the presence of sludge. Hyundai must prove neglect caused the failure, which has not been demonstrated. I am requesting review by the Engine Settlement Team and approval of my engine replacement.
Other or unspecified, Engine, Dec 6, 2025
New Battery keeps dying, car not starting and when it does start it shuts off when I brake. Oil light on after I already put oil in the car
Engine and engine cooling, Dec 5, 2025
The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle stalled, with an abnormal knocking sound coming from the engine compartment. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The contact was able to restart the vehicle; however, the failure persisted. The contact previously received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 17V226000 (Engine and Engine Cooling). The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed, and determined that the engine short block had failed and needed to be replaced. The contact was informed by the dealer that the vehicle would not be serviced under the recall. The contact was offered a buyback option for the vehicle and was also offered a loaner vehicle. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was not available.
Engine, Dec 5, 2025
Vehicle: 2013 Hyundai Sonata VIN: [XXX] Mileage: [163,000] Summary: Theta II 2.4L GDI engine bearing failure (Recall 953 / 20V-393) – severe knocking, risk of sudden engine seizure/fire. Dealer refuses lifetime-warranty repair and forced consumer to pay towing to avoid lien/fees. Description: This vehicle is covered by NHTSA Recall 20V-393 (Campaign 953) and the court-approved Theta II engine class-action settlement providing a lifetime warranty for rod-bearing failure. The engine now has loud knocking from failed rod bearings – the exact defect addressed by the recall and settlement.On 11/28/2025 I dropped the vehicle at Group 1 Hyundai Southwest Houston (10301 Southwest Fwy, Houston, TX 77074) for diagnosis and repair under the lifetime warranty. The dealership confirmed bearing failure but refused to repair, stating the vehicle is “not eligible” because the free Campaign 953 knock-sensor software update was never performed. No owner (current or prior) ever received any recall notice or settlement notice despite Hyundai’s legal duty to notify all registered owners.On 12/04/2025, service advisor Tevin told me to remove the car by Friday or face storage fees and possible lien sale. To avoid unlawful charges for a known safety defect, I paid $192.70 out of pocket for AAA to tow the vehicle off the lot on 12/05/2025 (receipt available).Hyundai is using its own failure to provide notice as justification to deny legitimate lifetime-warranty claims and shift costs to consumers. The unrepaired vehicle remains a serious safety hazard (engine stall/fire risk) on the road.Requested Action: Investigate Hyundai Motor America and its dealers for (1) systemic failure to notify owners of Recall 953 and the Theta II settlement, (2) wrongful denial of lifetime-warranty engine repairs, and (3) imposing towing/storage fees on consumers for admitted safety defects. I have filed a claim with the settlement administrator and can provide receipts, recorded calls, and docs. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Electrical system, Other or unspecified, Dec 1, 2025
Rear View camera stopped working about 6 weeks ago. Mechanic says need new camera which would cost about $500 labor and parts. Contacted dealer and Hyundai corporate to report and complain. Many other Hyundai vehicles have same problem with rear view camera but they are included in a recall campaign. Mine is not. Mechanic said the repair requires new camera and wireing harness. Hyundai case number is 41861577.
Engine, Nov 20, 2025
Component/System Failed - Engine – connecting rod bearing wear resulting in complete engine seizure. - Engine is available for inspection upon request. Safety Risk - Engine seizure occurred while my mechanic was driving, causing a complete loss of motive power.Created immediate risk of crash due to inability to accelerate or control vehicle. Hazard to driver, passengers, and others on the road. Reproduction/Confirmation Failure matches known defect described in Recall 17V226000: premature bearing wear leading to engine seizure. Maintenance records confirm proper service; dealership denied repair citing “owner negligence,” which is inconsistent with the recall symptoms. Inspection Engine has not been repaired or replaced by manufacturer. Vehicle was inspected by dealership service tech who determined failure was caused by negligence (text denial received). Spoke with customer service and they confirmed denial. Full maintenance records available for inspection. Hyundai requested service records - we were not able to find all service records, as some have closed, and some have files for 400 days only (jiffy lube). Warning Lamps / Symptoms No warning lamps illuminated prior to failure. Engine knocking and oil pressure loss were observed immediately before seizure. Failure was sudden and catastrophic. Additional Information / Assessment Vehicle: 2013 Hyundai Sonata, VIN [XXX] . Recall 17V226000 identifies bearing wear that may result in engine seizure. Failure is consistent with the recall defect, regardless of warranty expiration. Manufacturer has refused to perform required recall inspection or repair, citing improper negligence. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Engine, Nov 12, 2025
My engine recently seized on my vehicle and Hyundai is refusing to replace my engine. Per their website my vehicles engine has a lifetime warranty. This warranty is eligible for class vehicles who have has to campaign 953 reformed on their vehicles prior to engine failure. This was performed in n my vehicle on April 16, 2019. Per Hyundai’s website. I am being offered a settlement I did not take part in instead of my engine replacement and it should be illegal for them to go against their own word.
Service brakes, Engine and engine cooling, Nov 12, 2025
The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated that while driving 45-50 MPH and depressing the accelerator pedal, the vehicle failed to respond and hesitated. The brake and the hybrid system warning lights were illuminated. The contact was able to pull to the right side of the road and waited for her husband to arrive. The contact turned off the vehicle and restarted the vehicle, and the vehicle operated as intended. A dealer was contacted. The vehicle was taken to a dealer, where it was diagnosed, and determined that the hybrid ECU needed to be replaced. The contact stated that the dealer checked the error on the brake failure light that was illuminated, but had not yet gotten a response back from the manufacturer. The vehicle was taken to Auto Zone where it was diagnosed, and determined that the hybrid ECU needed to be replaced. The contact stated that the failure had occurred on several occasions for the past three years. The engine was replaced, and the vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure and informed the contact that they have not heard from the dealer. The approximate failure mileage was 128,000.
Engine and engine cooling, Oct 29, 2025
The contact's daughter owns a 2013 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated that the vehicle failed to start. The contact's daughter replaced the battery. A mechanic was able to restart the vehicle; however, the engine made an abnormal knocking sound. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 17V226000 (Engine and Engine Cooling) for which the VIN was included. The dealer and the manufacturer were not contacted. The failure mileage was approximately 95,000.
Engine, Oct 21, 2025, fire
Sir this is not first time to make complaint I brought my car to Hyundai company after I got an appointment and they called text emailed me and the know my car information on 10/1/2025 I brought my car but they mentioned wrong VIN NUMBER and after that I came back on 10/8/2025 but when I got there to finish my recall 953 they said your car rebuild title and now my car engine I think out I don’t know but they changed the engine before and i bought the car three months ago and now I can not drive it please help me with that the car just stopped when I was driving and 124369 miles and how the rebuild car not affected by recall
Engine, Oct 20, 2025
I bought the car on [XXX] used and it’s has 165000 miles drove fine for the 30 miles as I was driving At 65miles car losing power and slightly noise out the engine getting louder as I was to push the gas pedal and the engine light started flashing suddenly car has shut down as I was rolling on the road and I lost the power of breaking luckily I was going uphill on [XXX] and I parked on the side of the road. I call the Hyundai dealership of 3810 W Hillsborough Ave, Tampa, FL 33614 and I explained what happened he asked me have the car lost power I said yes, is the check engine light flashing I said yes. and do I hear knock engine I said yes. The dealership check the vin number and said it’s been warranty And we will inspect if that’s the problem we will be no charge to you with the repairs if something else we will charge you $175. I haven’t hear back i text to see the status and he told me the did test on the car and failed the test because of the issues on the engine I said okay you going to replace it he said we need to inspect inside the engine and take a photo to send over and to proof of the damage if not proof I will be responsible for the inspection time charge of $375 and I ask me of the I want to door that way which I have no choice until the dealership send over and get the proof to see the photo. Now im waiting the answer tomorrow INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Electrical system, Engine, Oct 17, 2025
The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated while driving 55 MPH, the vehicle shut off unexpectedly and failed to restart. The engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic who determined that the failure was caused by the starter. The mechanic informed the contact about an engine recall. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer and the contact was informed that the vehicle was working as designed. The starter was replaced. While leaving the dealer lot, the vehicle shut off. The dealer informed the contact that the spark plugs needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was contacted, who informed about a monetary compensation, a starter, or a repurchase of the vehicle. The failure mileage was approximately 198,000.