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
723 reports, newest first.
Service brakes, Jul 19, 2022
ABS light has been on since the car had under 40k miles on it...I took it in and they won't repair without cost to myself although my car was under warranty. I had it looked at again at 79k miles and they still won't do anything about it. This also affects (according to them) how the transmission shifts which is a really hard shift when accelerating. I have had animals (deer and dogs) jump in front of me while driving and my brakes lock up and cause me to swerve out of control.
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.
Exterior lighting, Jul 14, 2022
While driving at night, the low beams on the vehicle cast a very dark shadow approximately 30-40 feet in front of the car. While traveling, it us very noticeable and downright dangerous. If someone or something is in front of the vehicle, it would be hit. We have seen numerous complaints about this on the internet while searching for dilutions to the problem. Dealer says its within Hyundai specifications, however they have seen the problem and agree its very dangerous. Car was just purchased used, however we did not test drive it at night. It is so noticeable and dangerous that we try not to drive the vehicle at night.
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.
Electrical system, Jun 26, 2022
Ive bought this car used at 30k miles currently at 79k in 2020. Ever since this car has been given me nothing but issues. On 6-24-22 for the third time in two years the car would lose all power going 60-70 mph no gas, no battery engine wouldnt work all while driving on busy I-95. I refuse to drive this car any longer as it is not safe for myself and other drivers around me. This car has got to get taken off the road and or recalled as there have been many reports of this same car with the same issues doing this to other drivers.
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.
Other or unspecified, Jun 17, 2022
I went to my mechanic today to see why my car was making rattling noises coming from the steering wheel. It's been happening randomly for about a year now or more now. The mechanic said he's seen this over a thousand times with Hyundai, and I need to bring it into Hyundai to fix because something is wrong with the "Steering Rack Support Yoke", which is making the noise. If this is happening to so many Hyundai's this should be fixed for free and recalled! He googled it and gave me a whole printout from Hyundai. It says 2011 to 2018 model year Sonata 2011 to 2018 model year Sonata Hybrid 2012 to 2017 model year Azera 2013 to 2018 model year Santa Fe. This is what my mechanic gave me and said all these cars are affected. So why isn't this recalled, it is dangerous because eventually you could loose control of the steering wheel I think and it's going to cost a lot to fix. Thanks
Electrical system, Engine, Jun 12, 2022, fire
Engine caught on fire while driving
Electrical system, Jun 9, 2022
The contact owns a 2016 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated that she initially received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V749000 (Exterior Lighting, Electrical System) however, after the recall repair was performed, the contact stated that the vehicle would shut off while driving at various speeds. The contact stated that several unknown warning lights would illuminate on the instrument panel during the failure. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and the contact was provided a case number and was then referred back to the dealer for assistance. The dealer performed a diagnostic test and informed her husband that an unknown defective sensor was the cause of the failure. The contact was provided an estimate for the repair. The vehicle had not been repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 89,443.
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.
Steering, Jun 1, 2022
While turning onto the freeway the steering locked up and would not budge. Power steering light and traction control light came on. Turned car off and back on and it Went away for a few days. Almost crashed into the side railing and other cars on freeway. Dealership said it was the battery and replaced it. A few weeks later the same thing happened pulling out of the garage. Steering locked up and lights came on. Dealership said they could not duplicate the issue. It is locked right now but would need to be towed to a shop.
Service brakes, Air, Tires, Traction control system, May 26, 2022
The contact owns a 2016 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated upon starting the vehicle, the ABS, traction control, and TPMS warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where she was informed that the diagnostic test indicated that the rear wheels were moving at over 200 KM/H while the vehicle was idle. The dealer also diagnosed that the ABS had failed. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 50,000.
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.
Visibility, May 7, 2022
The recall for the moonroof wind deflector plate was done. However, with their remedy just being super glue it didn't hold up. Last year I had contacted Long Hyundai, dealership I bought the car from and the dealership I did the recall through and when I arrived they told me I was SOL. Hyundai America said the same thing. I've tried remedying this recall and my partner has witnessed the potential hazard given the plate detaching and the sunroof being left slightly ajar when closed. Three times this deflector plate has came detached and three times it almost caused an accident given the scare.
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.
Engine, Apr 29, 2022
Car oil light begin to blank and suddenly killed while driving at over 50mph. No warning. No engine or computer codes. Just sudden failure. The engine is locked I am being told.
Service brakes, Apr 29, 2022, fire
The contact called on behalf of the driver. The contact owned a 2016 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated while the driver was driving approximately 30 MPH the vehicle braking system functionality completely failed. Then shortly after there was smoke exhausted from the hood. There were no warning lights. The driver was able to cruise to the nearest parking, got the vehicle down to 5 MPH, and forced the brakes on. Upon exiting the vehicle the smoke became more intense and spread in the cab. The vehicle was destroyed by the fire. The fire department arrived and extinguished the fire. There was a police report filed. There were no major injuries; just minor smoke inhaled. The vehicle was towed to the wrecking yard. There were no medical reports. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 91,000.
Engine, Apr 28, 2022
The engine is still under the orgininal warranty (10 years, 100,000 miles). I took my car to Parks of Hyundai in Gainesville, FL on 09/23/2021 for an issue with engine code p1326. The service manager reset my engine code and told me that their service department is backed up with cars and they cannot help me with my car at this time. Then on April 5, 2022, the issue happened again to my Hyundai Sonata on the interstate, the car engine went into limbo mode in the middle of the interstate and almost caused a large accident. I have the engine code p1326 showing up on their computer I took my car back to Parks of Hyundai on April 5th, 2022. Parks of Hyundai told me that I had to leave my car with them and that they refuse to provide me with a rental. Karl Buchwald, stated that it will take a few days to get to my car, and they will let me know what is wrong with it plus diagonistic fee of $200 even though I provided him with the engine code number thats under the powertrain warranty on the car. I went home and called Corporate Hyundai and opened a case. Case no: 19623500 case manager Emily, number 1(833)462-8722. Corporate Hyundai says I have to pay out of pocket for my rental and then submit my paper work after for possible rental reimbursement. I went back to Parks of Hyundai to check on the status of my car on April 13, 2022, Karl Buchwald, states that it may take 2-3 weeks for them to take a look at my car. When I asked to see what was done on my car, he told service advisor Michelle to enter my car into the system. My car was at their dealership for a week without paperwork. Eric Duke states that since I did not purchase my car at their dealership, the wait time will be longer. I waited 2 weeks and went back to Parks of Hyundai to check on my car yesterday 4/27/2022. Nothing has been done, they said it will be a few more weeks for diagonistic.
Engine, Apr 25, 2022
While driving on the highway in Michigan I noticed the engine RPM not functioning properly. The timing on the engine was off and the shifting was irregular. I pulled over to the side of the road with fear it was going to do more damage internally to the engine. If I had the cruise control on I was in fear of the engine malfunctioning and causing damage to other vehicles on the road. Upon further inspection I noticed the variable valve censor connector had an electrical shortage and burned a hole right through it. I was afraid of more electrical damage that could have turned into an engine fire. So I didn’t drive it anymore.