2016 Hyundai Sonata

What owners report most often

1. Engine448
2. Other or unspecified90
3. Electrical system88
4. Power train59
5. Service brakes46
6. Exterior lighting38
7. Fuel/propulsion system33
8. Steering33

Recalls and investigations

1. 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

2. 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

3. 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

4. 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

5. 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

6. 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

1. Vehicle speed control, Service brakes, Engine, Mar 18, 2026

   I contact the Hyundai dealer about my 2016 Hyundai sonata. for all I know those vehicles have recalls with engine failure/stalling due to premature rod bearing wear, fire risks from malfunctioning electric oil pumps. My car is having those exact problems with the abs lights being on and is also have problems with the VVT sprocket. And the oil I called Hyundai and they said my vehicle only has a recall with the JUNCTION BOX. But my car is unable to go over 60. And is unsafe to drive and the recalls with that type of model car is the same recalls I am having and soon as I've bought the car and had it for some time i am starting to have those problems so I would like to know what’s going on because it is unsafe and I can’t even drive my vehicle I also have a blinking check engine light. I’ve wanted to report this now incase risk of a fire because I’ve did my research and realize these cars that have these type of problems are known for catching on fire.

2. Engine, Mar 17, 2026

   Car burning oil and engine started knocking no warning lights ever came on prior to knocking noise. Brought to mechanic and engine has failed. Vehicle has less that 130,000 miles on it.

3. Power train, Engine, Fuel/propulsion system, Mar 17, 2026

   This complaint is NOT related to the existing recall associated with this vehicle. The vehicle is experiencing a serious loss of power and acceleration issue. The car is unable to accelerate past approximately 60 mph. When pressing the accelerator fully, the vehicle does not respond or increase speed. While attempting to accelerate, the engine RPM increases and then suddenly drops repeatedly, causing the vehicle to struggle to maintain speed. This behavior is consistent and occurs during normal driving conditions. This creates a dangerous situation, especially when merging onto highways or attempting to accelerate in traffic, as the vehicle cannot respond when needed. The issue has occurred multiple times and makes the vehicle unsafe and unreliable to operate.

4. Other or unspecified, Engine, Mar 16, 2026

   code P1326 unable to accelerate, drive past 1st gear and knocking noise in engine area engine could stall out or lock up if problem is not fixed 3/14/2026- started engine light blinking warning light also code p1326 has had recalls for this particular car brand

5. Engine, Mar 10, 2026

   i took my car in for an oil change and the tech wouldn’t even take my money because he said the car was a safety issue and it needed to be taken to a hyundai dealership ASAP as he has seen the engine fail or blow up on this model before. on the way to the dealer the engine completely seized in the middle of the road forcing us to stop traffic on the busy road and push it in a near by parking lot.

6. Other or unspecified, Engine, Mar 9, 2026

   Vehicle started then stalled requiring tow. No initial illumination of warning lamps or messages. Findings upon inspection by independent service center: multiple cylinder misfires (P030100, P030300, P030400, P030200, P030000) and excessive debris buildup on vvt sensor screen. Car uses excess oil- a minimum of 3 qts per 600 miles. No warning lamps or messages occur when car is excessively low on oil.

7. Engine and engine cooling, Power train, Electrical system, Feb 11, 2026

   The contact owns a 2016 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated that while driving and depressing the accelerator pedal, the vehicle failed to respond or exceed 30 MPH. The contact stated that the speedometer reading was lagging. The contact stated that the vehicle accelerated as intended while depressing the accelerator pedal with more force. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where the camshaft position sensor was replaced. Additionally, the contact stated that the starter was previously replaced due to the engine's failure to turn over while starting the vehicle. The contact stated that upon switching to Sport Mode and driving 40 MPH, the vehicle jerked and lost motive power. The contact shifted to neutral(N) and was able to pull to the side of the road. The vehicle was able to restart the vehicle, but the vehicle was undrivable. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic, where it was determined that the failure could be an electrical failure or that an engine replacement was needed. The vehicle was not repaired. An unknown dealer was notified of the failure, but the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired due to the cost. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 152,000.

8. Engine, Feb 11, 2026

   While driving in normal traffic, the engine experienced a sudden and significant loss of power and went into a reduced-power “limp” mode. The check engine light illuminated and the vehicle stored an active P1326 diagnostic trouble code related to the engine/Knock Sensor Detection System (KSDS). Because this occurred in live traffic, the sudden power loss created an unsafe situation that increased the risk of a collision, as the vehicle could not accelerate or keep pace with surrounding vehicles. This issue appears to be directly related to Hyundai Technical Service Bulletin 22-EM-001H-1, which addresses known engine defects and P1326 activation in this model and engine. The vehicle was taken to a Hyundai dealership in West Palm Beach, Florida for inspection, where the code was verified and documentation (including oil change records) was requested. The vehicle has approximately 89,000–90,000 miles. After the dealership inspection, I received an email from Hyundai Motor America Consumer Affairs [XXX] ) stating: “This is Hyundai’s final position in this matter, and we are unable to offer any assistance with regard to this claim.” I believe this position is incorrect, as the symptoms and P1326 activation align with the conditions outlined in TSB 22-EM-001H-1, which Hyundai is supposed to honor when these failures occur. To my knowledge, the vehicle/component has not been inspected by police or insurance representatives. The check engine light and reduced power symptoms first appeared at the time of the incident. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

9. Engine, Feb 10, 2026

   Engine failure, cylinder 4 is swimming on oil.

10. Power train, Engine, Fuel/propulsion system, Feb 1, 2026

    My 2016 Hyundai Sonata (2.0T/2.4L engine) has been experiencing loss of motive power and severe engine stumbling at stoplights, creating an unreasonable risk of a crash in traffic. The Check Engine light is on with DTC P0010. Upon inspection, the internal oil seal plug at the intake camshaft E-CVVT has become unseated, causing an active oil leak. This matches the exact defect and symptoms (elevated idle of 1,200–1,400 RPM and power reduction) described in Hyundai Service Campaign TX3 (TSB 15-01-022-1). While that campaign only applied to 2015 models, my 2016 vehicle has suffered the identical failure. I am requesting that this safety-related defect be investigated for 2016 models to prevent potential engine fires from oil leaks or accidents from sudden power loss

11. Electrical system, Engine, Jan 26, 2026

    Engine started rough idling and knocking. Took to a mechanic who found metal particulate in the oil and the engine spun a bearing.

12. Engine, Fuel/propulsion system, Jan 19, 2026

    This vehicle has experienced multiple hybrid system failures while driving, including a complete loss of power “Hybrid System Warning – Turn Engine Off” on the interstate in June 2022 through November 2025. These events have placed me and my loved ones in dangerous driving situations. Despite a warranty‑covered engine replacement at 82,015 miles (January 2023), the same hybrid system issues have recurred. Hyundai initially indicated a warranty claim was submitted, then told me there was no record of any claim in the system. The dealership claims it was denied — creating a serious inconsistency in communication and accountability. In addition, I have identified multiple NHTSA complaints in the database from other owners of 2016 Sonata Hybrids (VINs beginning with KMHE) describing similar highway shutdowns and hybrid system failures, which raise concern about a broader, unaddressed safety defect not currently covered by existing TSB or recall actions. I am respectfully requesting: A regional inspection and review of my vehicle prior to any further work. A review of Hyundai’s handling of this warranty claim and the discrepancy between dealer and corporate communication. Assessment of whether the hybrid system failures in KMHE‑prefix Sonata Hybrids warrant further safety action.

13. Engine, Jan 3, 2026

    I am filing a complaint against Hyundai Motor America regarding denial of defect coverage for my 2016 Hyundai Sonata (VIN: [XXX] ). The vehicle is experiencing excessive oil consumption and triggered diagnostic code P1326. The dealer confirmed only one quart of oil remained in the engine and noted a valve cover gasket leak. Hyundai’s Tech Line instructed a gasket replacement and oil consumption test, but Hyundai corporate formally declined coverage, citing mileage and second-owner status. This is not a routine warranty claim but a defect claim. Oil consumption defects in Hyundai Theta engines are well-documented and have been subject to recalls, Technical Service Bulletins, and class actions. Defect coverage should not be limited to first owners. I am requesting reimbursement for the valve cover gasket repair, acknowledgment of the oil consumption defect, and corrective action to ensure Hyundai honors defect-related coverage fairly. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

14. Engine, Dec 30, 2025

    My 2016 Hyundai Sonata experienced a sudden engine failure while in operation with no prior warning lights or symptoms. The engine seized unexpectedly, creating a safety risk. This failure appears consistent with known engine defects affecting Hyundai Sonata vehicles of this model year. Hyundai Motor America denied my claim without addressing these known defect patterns.

15. Power train, Electrical system, Engine, Dec 21, 2025

    Vehicle stalled while driving

16. Power train, Engine, Dec 16, 2025

    On November 10, 2025, my 2016 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid (VIN [XXX] , approximately 150,000 miles) experienced a sudden loss of power while I was turning right and accelerating into traffic. The vehicle immediately entered limp mode with flashing warning lights and audible alerts. The vehicle lost normal propulsion and could not accelerate properly, creating a dangerous situation as it was blocking a traffic lane. I was forced to limp the vehicle into a nearby parking lot to get out of traffic. The vehicle was not safely drivable afterward and was towed home. A few days later, the vehicle was towed to Murdoch Hyundai in Lindon, Utah, for diagnosis. The vehicle was found to have diagnostic trouble code P1326, which Hyundai identifies as activation of the Knock Sensor Detection System (KSDS) related to connecting-rod bearing wear. This condition is part of Hyundai’s known engine defect and safety recall/warranty extension programs. During inspection, the dealer observed that the valvetrain did not show signs of neglect or sludge, which is inconsistent with oil starvation or severe maintenance neglect. This further supports that the failure is consistent with the known connecting-rod bearing defect addressed by Hyundai’s KSDS safety recall, rather than a maintenance-related issue. This is a safety issue because sudden loss of propulsion or reduced power while entering traffic creates a high risk of collision. Hyundai customer care has been unwilling to open a new case number or escalate review, and the dealer has indicated possible denial of engine replacement coverage based on incomplete oil-change records, despite the vehicle exhibiting the KSDS safety condition. I am requesting NHTSA review of this safety-related defect and the manufacturer’s handling of KSDS/P1326 failures. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

17. Engine, Dec 5, 2025

    My Hyundai is experiencing severe and continuous engine oil consumption that creates a safety risk. The vehicle loses a significant amount of oil within 1,000–1,500 miles, sometimes showing almost no oil on the dipstick despite recent oil changes. There are no external leaks, no burning smell, and no visible oil under the car. The cause remains UNKNOWN, but it appears to be internal engine burning or a manufacturing defect. I have taken the vehicle to the Hyundai dealer multiple times. They performed oil consumption tests but either reported “normal results” or did not provide clear explanations. The issue continues exactly the same. I also contacted Hyundai corporate, but no meaningful assistance or goodwill support was provided. The dealer acknowledges no leaks but still refuses to repair or replace the engine. This problem is dangerous because the oil level drops without warning lights or error codes. If I do not manually check the dipstick, the engine could run dry and seize while driving. Sudden engine failure on highways or in traffic can cause accidents. I now have to frequently top up oil just to keep the engine alive. I have maintained the vehicle properly and completed all requested tests. The cause is still UNKNOWN, but based on similar Hyundai cases, it may involve piston rings, valve seals, or internal engine wear. Many Hyundai owners report the same issue, suggesting a broader defect. The dealer’s only advice is to “keep monitoring oil,” which is not a safe long-term solution. This defect poses a serious safety concern and financial burden. I am filing this complaint so NHTSA can investigate, as the engine may fail unexpectedly, putting me and others at risk.

18. Engine, Dec 5, 2025

    My 2016 Hyundai Sonata with the DOHC GDI Theta-II engine is experiencing severe engine oil consumption consistent with Hyundai's known TXXI/TXXC extended warranty defect. The oil pressure warning has flashed while driving or braking, the engine runs rough when slowing down, engine has made knocking noises, and there is smoke/vapor with a burnt oil smell when removing the oil cap after driving. The oil level drops rapidly between changes despite proper maintenance. This issue poses a risk of engine failure, stalling, or fire while driving. I have maintained the vehicle on time with all oil change receipts. A Hyundai dealership refused to perform the required warranty diagnostics even though this issue falls under Hyundai's extended warranty for Theta-II engines. This is a serious safety concern, and no corrective action has been taken.

19. Engine, Nov 25, 2025

    Car has been consuming oil fast since around 75,000 miles. Car is under 100,000 miles and I have been told by an independent shop that it basically has piston ring failure which means engine failure.

20. Engine, Nov 23, 2025

    The vehicle is going through oil very quicky. No leaks no burning.

21. Engine, Nov 20, 2025

    This car burned oil like crazy from the start. We kept the oil changed regularly, had to change spark plugs weekly and add a quart or more of oil each week in between oil changes. One day whole stopped at a red light the engine started knocking for no reason. Once diagnosed it turned out that it had spun a rod bearing. These engines need to be recalled before someone ends up in a fatal accident. This car was driven daily on a major interstate thankfully the issue happened at a red light, but has left me with a car note and a non drivable car. What’s it gonna take to get these engines recalled and replaced?

22. Engine, Nov 19, 2025

    My 2016 Hyundai Sonata (VIN: [XXX] ) had its engine replaced under recall campaign 20V746000 in March / April 2024 at Hyundai of Round Rock, TX. In October 2025, less than 18 months later and at 97,000 miles, the replacement engine failed again. Hyundai has refused further repair, citing an expired recall warranty. This raises serious safety and reliability concerns, as a recall engine should not fail this soon. Engine failure while driving could result in a stall or crash risk. Please investigate whether Hyundai’s recall replacement engines are defective and if extended coverage is warranted for affected consumers. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

23. Power train, Electrical system, Engine, Nov 17, 2025

    The vehicle experienced an engine and power train failure while driving on the highway, resulting in sudden loss of power. The electrical system also failed after the dealer visit, causing the battery to die every morning. Yes, the vehicle is available for inspection upon request. My car suddenly lost power on the highway and would not accelerate, forcing me to pull over on the shoulder with traffic moving around me. This created a serious risk of a rear-end collision or crash. Additionally, after the dealer visit, the electrical system began failing and the vehicle has been completely dead every morning, leaving me stranded with a child and unable to reliably start the car. The problem has not been reproduced because the check engine code cleared itself after the incident; however, the symptoms absolutely remain. The dealer refused to diagnose the loss-of-power event because the code was cleared, and they returned the vehicle to me with a dead battery. The electrical issue (car dying every morning) has been happening consistently since the dealer visit. The vehicle was taken to a Hyundai dealership immediately after the incident, but they refused to diagnose the loss of power due to the code being cleared. A mobile mechanic scanned the code at my home before the tow, but the code disappeared afterward. The electrical failure began after the dealer visit and has not been properly inspected by Hyundai. Yes. While driving on the highway, the check engine light came on and the car immediately lost power and would not accelerate. After the dealer visit, the car has been completely dead every morning and requires a jump to start. These symptoms began on the same day as the highway incident and continued after Hyundai serviced the vehicle.

24. Engine, Nov 17, 2025

    Engine issue - but no recalls there have been hundreds of this same car yr and model with engine issues out of the blue

25. Engine, Oct 31, 2025

    Sudden engine failure. Compression issue, car has only 63,000 miles.