2016 Hyundai Sonata
Problems, recalls and owner-reported issues
Engine is the leading concern among 723 owner complaints filed for this model year. This is the 8th highest complaint count among 26 Sonata model years with reports.
Of the 2016 reports, 19 involved a crash and 28 involved a fire. 19 people were injured and 1 person died.
What owners report most often
Recalls and investigations
Exterior lighting, turn signalSep 24, 2021
Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2015-2017 Sonata, 2016-2017 Sonata Hybrid, and Sonata Plug-In Hybrid vehicles. The Smart Junction Box (SJB) software logic may not properly interpret the signals received from the multifunction switch, which could cause the turn signal to activate in the opposite direction of what the driver intended.
A turn signal that activates in the opposite direction of what was intended by the driver increases the risk of a crash.
Dealers will update the SJB software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed November 19, 2021. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 210.
Campaign 21V749000 on NHTSA.gov
Parking brake, indicator lightJun 5, 2017
Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2015-2016 Sonata and Genesis vehicles. In the affected vehicles, the warning light to indicate that the parking brake is applied may intermittently not illuminate in the dash due to corrosion in the switch.
If the parking brake indicator is not illuminated when the parking brake is applied, the driver may operate the vehicle with the parking brake partially engaged, increasing the risk of a crash.
Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will replace the parking brake switch, free of charge. The recall began on August 4, 2017. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-671-3059. Hyundai's number for this recall is 164.
Campaign 17V359000 on NHTSA.gov
Visibility, sun/moon roof assemblyOct 11, 2016
Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain model year 2015-2016 Sonata Hybrid vehicles manufactured December 8, 2014, to August 18, 2015, and Hyundai Sonata vehicles manufactured May 28, 2014, to March 18, 2016, equipped with the panoramic sunroof option. Due to a bonding issue with the sunroof wind deflector, the sunroof panel on the affected vehicles may detach while driving.
If the sunroof detaches from the vehicle it could become a road hazard, increasing the risk of a crash.
Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will repair the wind deflector anchor plate, free of charge. The recall began December 2016. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-800-633-5151. Hyundai's number for this recall is 152.
Campaign 16V726000 on NHTSA.gov
Air bagsAug 24, 2016
Hyundai Motor Company (Hyundai) is recalling certain model year 2016 Sonata vehicles manufactured March 28, 2016 through April 12, 2016. The affected vehicles have a driver-side frontal air bag that may not adequately protect the driver's neck from injury in the event of a crash. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."
A frontal air bag that does not adequately protect the driver's neck may increase their risk of injury in the event of a crash.
Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will replace the driver's frontal air bag module, free of charge. The recall began October 14, 2016. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-800-633-5151. Hyundai's number for this recall is 148.
Campaign 16V615000 on NHTSA.gov
Air bags, frontalApr 21, 2016
Hyundai Motor Company (Hyundai) is recalling certain model year 2015-2016 Sonata vehicles manufactured May 29, 2014 to February 11, 2016, 2017 Elantra vehicles manufactured January 12, 2016 to February 22, 2016, and one 2016 Sonata Hybrid vehicle manufactured October 15, 2015. In these vehicles, the driver's frontal air bag may be missing a chemical enhancer required for the second stage air bag deployment, resulting in the second stage not deploying in certain crashes. The primary stage will deploy as intended.
An air bag that does not inflate increases the risk of injury.
Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will replace the driver's frontal air bag module, free of charge. The recall began on May 5,2016. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 144.
Campaign 16V232000 on NHTSA.gov
Electrical system, instrument cluster/panelOct 20, 2015
Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain model year 2015-2016 Sonata vehicles manufactured May 28, 2014, to August 21, 2015. The affected vehicles are equipped with an Antilock Braking System (ABS) warning light intended to warn the driver if there is an ABS malfunction. In the event of an ABS malfunction, the Brake System warning light will illuminate, but the ABS warning light will not illuminate. Since the vehicles have ABS malfunction lights that do not illuminate, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 135, "Light Vehicle Brake Systems."
If the driver is alerted there is a brake system malfunction, but not specifically with the ABS system, the driver may operate the vehicle unaware that the vehicle's brakes may lock up during hard braking, increasing the risk of a crash.
Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will update the ABS control unit software, free of charge. The recall is expected began on November 30, 2015. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-671-3059. Hyundai's number for this recall is 134.
Campaign 15V678000 on NHTSA.gov
Representative owner complaints: engine
457 reports, newest first. Show all
Engine, Sep 29, 2022
The contact owns a 2016 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated that the vehicle was taken to the dealer for routine maintenance and the contact was informed that there was a leak in the scored piston cylinder walls and that the part needed to be replaced. No warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and the contact was informed that the vehicle was no longer under warranty. The failure mileage was approximately 140,000.
Engine, Sep 9, 2022
The contact owns a 2016 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated that on multiple occasions while driving at undisclosed speeds, the vehicle stalled without warning. Additionally, the contact stated that he noticed white smoke coming from the exhaust. The contact stated that the vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed that the engine needed to be replaced. The mechanic stated that the vehicle experienced excessive oil consumption. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and the contact was informed that the failure was due to the lack of proper maintenance. The failure mileage was approximately 147,000.
Engine, Aug 26, 2022
Driving down the road so if a sudden it felt like something fell out from under the car and it sputtered a bit then lost all . When I tried to start it a few minutes late all comes on except engine
Engine, Aug 22, 2022
I was driving and then my car jerk every time I tried to go pass 20mph so I took it to the auto zone to get it checked and they hooked a machine that read code p1326 so I took it in to get checked and the mechanic replaced a knock sensor spark plugs and coil pack and for some reason the vehicle still is misfiring on spark plug number 3 it’s getting no fire I’ve bought a new fuel injector that’s still new in the box but now the vehicle is reading code p0193 which is the fuel rail pressure sensor and was told it could possibly be the engine and I’ve been online and see there has been a lot of problems with Hyundai and knock sensors
Engine, Aug 19, 2022
The contact's daughter owns a 2016 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated while her daughter was driving at an undisclosed speed, the check engine warning light illuminated and the engine misfired. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic that was unable to diagnose the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to another independent mechanic where it was diagnosed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was then taken to the dealer where it was also diagnosed that the engine needed to be replaced and the contact was provided a rental vehicle. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and the contact was informed that the vehicle was under warranty. The failure mileage was approximately 100,000.
Engine, Aug 18, 2022
What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? Engine Failure due to the rod bearing recall How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? Could of caused an accident as the car stopped and I was unable to move it - luckly we were able to pull to the should on the carpool lane. Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? Yes, we had the tow truck take the vehicle to the dealership. Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others? Yes, Lindon Hyundai Dealership Were there any warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, and when did they first appear? Yes, check engine light came on the day before the engine failed. Other - Driving down the interstate 15 freeway and there was a thumping sound coming from the front center of the car (behind the firewall); check engine light came on and we pulled over the car.
Power train, Engine, Aug 18, 2022
Oil Consumption Test Failed, I was originally told if I could prove it was burning oil and not leaking then I would receive a new engine. New engine rejected saying Hyundai no longer warranty engines for that reason. Was told that when motor seized to have it reevaluated for bearing or rod failure. No way to determine bearing or rod was cause of oil consumption without tearing the motor apart. Knocking noise from engine and experienced Engine Failure, resulted in being stranded in middle of highway with my kids 1 yr after oil consumption test. Hyundai rejecting engine replacement due to low compression from cylinders. Not willing to honor their warranty after an obvious lemon of a motor.
Engine, Aug 17, 2022
My 2016 Hyundai sonata is burning a lot of oil. I have to constantly put more oil in it. I went to the dealership and they said there is an engine recall to replace the engine but I have to wait until it fails. I don't want to be on the road and my engine seize up and an accident to happen. They said they can't do anything until something happens. That sounds extremely dangerous
Engine, Aug 10, 2022
The 2016 hyundai sonata keeps losing oil within about 500-800 miles after changing the oil the dipstick shows that the oil needs filled. I have never had to refill the oil so quick after changing on any car I have had. I ended up adding an additive to seal whatever leak or malfunction that the sonata has. I have looked it up and my car does not seam to be the only one with this issue. I never know when its gonna be too low and hurt my engine.
Engine, Aug 1, 2022
I tried numerous times last year to get my car into the Beaverton Hyundai dealership to address the engine recall each time the service date they would call and cancel due to lack of proper equipment to diagnose. July 19th the vehicle was at the Nampa Hyundai dealership service department for the open recalls. I informed the service department of the loss of power I was experiencing and that no warning lights had come on. Upon completion they stated the engine passed and the smartbox was replaced and car passed the 32 point inspection. On July 22nd the car suffered complete engine failure and had to be towed to the dealership on July 23rd the car was then transferred to the Boise dealership on the 28th on the 29th I was informed they couldn’t diagnose in Nampa that’s why Boise was going to try. On Monday August 1st the service department notified me that there was not enough amps in the battery to diagnose and wants me to pay $275.00 plus tax for a new battery to diagnose. I have been stranded over 400 miles from my home for one because of engine failure they never offered a loaner they have had the car for over a week with no answers! The car suffered complete engine failure on July 22nd so why are they asking me to pay for a new battery on August 1st to diagnose? I truly feel they are avoiding replacing the engine and trying to charge me for something I never had an issue with until the engine failure. I am out a lot of time and money over this issue and I’m disabled this has completely devastated my well being as well as my health due to being 400 miles away from home and needing additional medical care. I want Hyundai to be held accountable for the recall repairs and provide temporary transportation while it’s being addressed.
Engine, Jul 24, 2022
The knock sensor detection system is messing up
Engine, Jul 19, 2022
On Thursday June 30th my 2016 Hyundai Sonata started jerking and stopped on me. The check engine light or any of the warning lights did not come on to warn me of any issues on any of the previous days. Since i was at Wal Mart I was able to get it pushed into the service center. The service techs there said that there was no oil in the car and only sludge came out. They changed the oil and I was able to get the car home. The car shook violently as I drove it but I was still able to get it home. Once I was home I lifted the hood to check the engine and noticed the engine covered in oil.I immediately called the dealership and they asked me to call Hyundai Consumer Affairs as oil consumption was a known issue with the Hyundai Sonata. The consumer affairs agent gave me a case number. I had the car towed to Vandegriff Hyundai in Arlington, TX on that same day and waited for a phone call. On 7/18/2022 I was contacted by Hyundai Consumer Affairs and told that the car has two issues. The first issue was that the car was misfiring and the second issue is that the car was burning oil. They told me that I would have to pay out of pocket for new spark plugs and a new coil and that the issue with the car misfiring would be fixed after that. They also told me that I would still have the issue with the car consuming oil and that I would have to pay out of pocket to get the carburetor flushed and cleaned. They also stated that it was not a guarantee that whole motor would be an issue after that. This is a safety issue because the car could have stopped in an unsafe area, on a train track or in heavy traffic where other cars could have slammed into my car as there was no warning or check engine light that told me that the motor would stop abruptly like it did that day.
Engine, Jul 18, 2022
July 16 2022 I was driving with my family (wife and kid) about 65 MPH on 91 Fwy around 9:00 A.M. lane #2 - my 2016 Hyundai Sonata started to shake and ultimately engine shut down middle freeway - many cars driving behind me was trying to dodge my car to my left and to my right - avoiding hitting my stall car -it was scaring things ever happen to me and family. Subsequently doing researching about my vehicle - I found out the car had problems with the engine and many recall items related engine problems. I never received any information (email, letters & text) about any recalls or issue regarding my 2016 Hyundai Sonata since I bought the vehicle used from the Hyundai dealership in 1307 Kettering Dr. Ontario CA 91761. My vehicle now is in another Hyundai dealership sevice shop being evaluated for engine problems. Getting alot run around from this Hyundai dealership (9898 Trask Ave. Garden Grove CA). Waiting around for two hours No one seem to care or wants to take any responsibility. Service reps already asking me money to do vehicle inspection ($500) and service for new engine. Everything is about financial gain. If I knew what Hyundai Corporation is doing - I should never buy a Hyundai Hyundai is risking my life for financial gain. I email Hyundai Corporation about my car and concerns. Currently waiting for response.
Power train, Electrical system, Engine, Jul 15, 2022
The contact owns a 2016 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated while driving 55 MPH, he became aware of smoke coming from underneath the hood of the vehicle. The contact veered to the side of the road and exited the vehicle. The TPMS, oil pressure, power train, and battery warning lights along with an unknown warning light were illuminated. The contact veered to the side of the road. Upon opening the hood to inspect the vehicle, the contact noticed that oil was leaking onto the ground. The vehicle was towed to the local dealer where it was diagnosed that the engine needed to be replaced, the transmission needed to be flushed, and the drivebelt needed to be replaced. The dealer also diagnosed that the failure was associated NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V749000 (Exterior Lighting, Electrical System). The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure but provided no assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 138,100.
Engine, Jul 14, 2022
The contact owns a 2016 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated that while his son was driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle lost motive power. The vehicle was towed to the dealer where it was diagnosed with engine failure. The dealer informed the contact that the manufacturer had declined the engine replacement due to a lack of maintenance records. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and declined the contact's request for a free engine replacement. The failure mileage was 102,388.
Engine, Jul 11, 2022
2016 HYUNDAI SONATA. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARD TO SAFETY RECALL RELATED TO 2.4 LITER ENGINES. THE CONSUMER STATED THE DEALER AND MANUFACTURER WOULD NOT HONOR THE RECALL DUE TO A SOFTWARE UPDATE PREVENTING A SUCCESSFUL REPAIR. THE CONSUMER STATED AFTER THE SOFTWARE UPDATE THE ENGINE WOULD STILL FAIL.
Engine, Jun 22, 2022
My daughter’s car just shut off Tried to start the car several times and heard loud knocking noise with oil light flashing. Towed the car to local repair shop and was advised we needed a new engine. We’ve had the car for a year! This is my 2nd purchase of a Hyundai car for my daughter and I’ve realized THEY ARE A PIECE OF CRAP! With the 1st car, we had light replacement issues constantly as well as ac issues. Now we have engine issues. I wanted a safe economical car for my daughter and I’m ending up paying more money on this crap. I’m praying it’s covered under a recall.
Electrical system, Engine, Jun 12, 2022, fire
Engine caught on fire while driving
Engine, Fuel/propulsion system, Jun 8, 2022
The engine is consuming oil at abnormal rate. After receiving an oil change at a credible business the car is out of oil in a week. Hyundai will not check for oil consumption if the mileage is above 85k miles. Myself and my children can be stuck on the side of the road for engine failure due to the lack of oil. Express oil has stated this is not normal and a cause for concern. There are no warning signs for this problem. Only awareness from the performance of the cars decline to run properly.
Engine, Jun 3, 2022
When driving at 65+ mph the "Turn off Engine - Check Hybrid System" flashing triangle warning lamp came on, causing me to pull over on a freeway putting myself in danger of collision. After turning off vehicle with no explanation of warning symbol in owners manual I turned vehicle on again after 5 minutes and warning lamp re-illuminated. After waiting 30mins while still on shoulder of major freeway, I reignited engine and warning lamp had disappeared so I drove vehicle home (less than 5miles) and took to Hyundai service dealer the next day and they determined the coolant (water) pump and thermometer needed to be replaced and it was a known issue covered under 100k warranty. My vehicle was at approximately 102,700 miles and I paid for replacement of coolant pump and thermometer out of pocket.
Engine, Lane departure, Jun 2, 2022
My car begins to shake cutoffs every time I use the air or drive on May 29,2022 took it to get it look at a repair shop. They diagnosed it with internal engine problems.
Engine, Jun 1, 2022
The contact owns a 2016 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated while driving approximately 45 MPH and accelerating to merge onto a highway, the vehicle stalled. The power steering and braking functionality remained operational. The contact was able to safely coast off to the side of the road. The contact attempted to restart the vehicle however, the vehicle failed to restart. The contact stated no warning light was illuminated. The contact had the vehicle towed to her residence and called an independent mechanic. The mechanic diagnosed the vehicle and determined that the engine had seized and needed to be replaced. The vehicle had not been repaired. The manufacturer had not been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 100,000.
Engine, May 24, 2022
I purchased my car used in December 2021 it is a 2016 with 97k miles. 2 weeks after I purchased the car I called to set up service because my cars engine was making horrible sounds. with me putting less than 900 miles on the car (it took 2 weeks to get it in for service) I had a in near perfect condition car with a blown engine. The car still runs and drives fine but it is using almost a qt of oil a week. The dealer is Autonation Hyundai of North Richland Hills, Tx knows the history that these engines are junk. But rather than be stuck with this issue they told me my valve covers were leaking and that was my issue. Keep in mind I have no oil leaking from anywhere and not a drop is on my car or on the ground. This car has an oil consumption problem along with thousands of other Hyundais and neither Autonation or Hyundai are willing to do anything about it because I am the second owner even though I bought the car in this condition from the dealer. The engine is failing because it is consuming oil. The engine is making noises and could at any time while driving could lock up and cause a dangerous situation on the roadways. This is a very well known issue and even a current class action lawsuit. The dealer is refusing to inspect the vehicle because I am the second owner and have no warranty. The only sign is low oil. The car is using oil at a rapid pace and I have to check and add oil weekly. This is a 5 year old car with 100k mikes on it.
Engine, May 6, 2022
COMPLETE ENGINE FAILURE ENGINE FAILED IN 2021, PRIOR TO RECALL NOTICES (2 OF THEM) FINALLY HAD IT TOWED TO HUNDAI. HUNDAI WANTS ME TO BUY A NEW ENGINE BLOCK FOR $13,000.00 THIRTEEN THOUSAND DOLLARS. HUNDAI NEEDS TO BUY THAT CAR BACK, OR PAY TO PUT A NEW ENGINE BLOCK IN IT. HAD THE PARTS NOT BEEN FAULTY, I'D STILL HAVE A CAR TO DRIVE.
Engine, May 5, 2022
2016 HYUNDAI SONATA. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARD TO ENGINE FAILURE. THE CONSUMER STATED WHILE ON VACATION THE ENGINE FAILED. THE CONSUMER STATED THE MANUFACTURER DENIED ANY ASSISTANCE. THE CONSUMER STATED THE VEHICLE WAS SOLD WITH AN UNRESOLVED RECALL. THE CONSUMER WAS UNAWARE OF THE RECALL.