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.
Power train, Electrical system, Other or unspecified, Dec 29, 2025
Oil pressure sensor failure caused oil to leak into the injector harness damaging components and engine shutdown. Because this was a sudden engine shutdown and safety-related loss of motive power caused by an oil pressure sensor failure this presents a safety risk
Power train, Electrical system, Engine, Dec 21, 2025
Vehicle stalled while driving
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)
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.
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.
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.
Engine, Nov 23, 2025
The vehicle is going through oil very quicky. No leaks no burning.
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?
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)
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.
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
Air bags, Nov 6, 2025, crash
On September 25, 2023, I was involved in a motor vehicle collision while driving my Hyundai Sonata 2016, during which the front driver-side airbag failed to deploy despite the impact being significant enough to cause injury. This non-deployment represents a malfunction of the airbag system, including its sensors and deployment components, and aligns with issues already reported in class-action complaints involving Hyundai vehicles, making my case further evidence that an airbag defect exists. Because the vehicle was declared a total loss by my insurance company and later sold at auction, the physical component is no longer in my possession now; however, I retain documentation on accident-related records that clearly show the airbag did not deploy. The failure of this critical safety system placed my safety at direct risk because the protective barrier intended to reduce impact forces was absent, resulting in greater injury than would reasonably be expected had the system functioned properly. The problem has not been reproduced yet because the vehicle was transferred to insurance immediately after the incident and was not repairable. But working with accident reconstruction engineers on this matter. Prior to the crash, the vehicle displayed no warning lights, SRS messages, or other symptoms indicating an issue with the airbag system, and at no time before the collision was I alerted to any malfunction that would have suggested the system would fail at the moment it was most needed.
Engine, Oct 31, 2025
Sudden engine failure. Compression issue, car has only 63,000 miles.
Engine, Oct 31, 2025
While driving, my 2016 Hyundai Sonata’s engine suddenly started knocking loudly. I stopped immediately and found the engine oil was very low without any prior warning. After adding oil, the engine still runs but with possible internal damage. This could have caused the engine to seize while driving. There were no warning lights or leaks before this happened.
Power train, Engine, Oct 30, 2025
High engine oil consumption 2 qts every 1k miles.
Engine, Oct 15, 2025
Car had oil in the electrode of spark plug. Total engine failure
Other or unspecified, Engine, Fuel/propulsion system, Oct 10, 2025
The problem with my vehicle is a failure of internal engine components, specifically a known defect in the piston rings of the Hyundai Theta II engine. This failure causes excessive oil consumption, which is burned internally. The internal engine components have failed, leading to a widely documented defect in the Hyundai Theta II engine. The primary symptom, which began to get serious around 80,000 miles, is the constant need to add oil to the engine every two weeks. If I do not do this, the low oil warning light illuminates on the dashboard, serving as a continuous alert of the problem. This failure was officially confirmed by an authorized Hyundai dealership. About two weeks ago, they first documented that there were no external leaks on the vehicle. When I returned because the oil had been consumed again, they performed a new diagnostic, for which I paid over $300, that confirmed the engine is burning oil internally. The dealership, acting as the manufacturer's representative, is the only entity that has formally inspected the vehicle. The situation places my safety and the safety of others at serious risk. First, the oil consumption can lead to a sudden and catastrophic engine failure, resulting in a loss of power and control of the vehicle while in transit. More alarmingly, the guidance I received from Hyundai staff was to simply "wait for the engine to stop working or start making a lot of noise." As someone who depends on the car for a daily commute, following this dangerous recommendation is an unacceptable risk.
Engine, Oct 10, 2025
At 70712 miles cylinder 4 suffered a catastrophic internal failure. The vehicle also had excessive oil consumption and the dealer just told us to keep adding oil as there was nothing they could do. The vehicle must have had a manufacturing defect.
Engine, Oct 8, 2025
Was driving on the interstate, and took the exit I needed. Upon exiting before coming up to stop light, noticed check engine light flashing, and couldn't accelerate. RPMS were bouncing when I tried to accelerate. Pulled off onto side of road, called mechanically inclined friend who came with an obd2 sensor, and it was showing a P132600 code for Knock signal range performance, with an audible knocking sound, and engine vibration while on in idle. Got the code cleared so we could drive the car the 3 miles I needed to go to get to where I was going, 2 miles in, the engine light came back on and vehicle went back into limp mode. Called AAA and got the car to an in network mechanic shop for Carvana, whom i bought the car through a month prior. Proceeded to do an oil sample test and found it to be full of metal shavings. Said engine would need to be fully replaced. Vehicle is currently still at mechanic until SilverRock gets the claim and will see if the engine replacement is covered under warranty. Certified Automotive Inc. [XXX] [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Air bags, Sep 28, 2025
I am submitting this complaint as a follow-up to my prior NHTSA complaint regarding the defective passenger seat Occupant Classification Sensor (OCS) in the 2016 Hyundai Sonata. Previous Tracking Number: 11689976 Since my initial submission, I have prepared a detailed technical and comparative report, which I am attaching here. The report documents how Hyundai’s repair policy for the OCS creates excessive repair costs (over $3,600 for a single sensor failure) and forces consumers to operate vehicles with compromised safety systems, in violation of the intent of FMVSS 208. The attached report provides: • Technical analysis of the OCS design and failure mode • Cost comparison with other manufacturers (Toyota, Honda, Ford, BMW, Mercedes-Benz) • Legal and consumer protection implications, including potential violations of the Texas Deceptive Trade Practices Act • Supporting exhibits (service estimate and parts documentation) I respectfully request that NHTSA review this additional evidence in connection with my prior complaint and consider appropriate regulatory or enforcement actions. Thank you for your attention.
Air bags, Sep 26, 2025
The problem originates from a single faulty passenger seat airbag sensor, but Hyundai requires replacement of the entire seat cushion module, quoted at approximately $3,200 for the part alone and around $4,000 total repair cost. This creates the impression that a single failed sensor affects the entire airbag system. I was not provided with a definitive answer as to whether this fault impacts the driver airbag, which leaves a critical safety uncertainty. By designing the sensor as an inseparable, non-serviceable part of the cushion module, Hyundai forces consumers into an unreasonable expense. This situation puts drivers in the position of either paying thousands of dollars or risking driving with potentially compromised airbag safety. I strongly believe this constitutes a serious safety defect and should be subject to recall.
Engine, Sep 20, 2025
I BOUGHT THIS VEHICLE ON [XXX],I DIDNT RECIEVE ANY INFORMATION ABOUT RECALLS,I WAS DRIVING ON [XXX] AT 60 MPH AND NOTICED THE DASH LIGHTS CAME ON, SOMEHOW I WAS ABLE TO COAST FAR ENOUGH AND MERGE 2 LANES AND WAS SITTING BETWEEN THE OFFRAMP AND THE FREEWAY ,THE SEEMED LIKE A DEAD BATTERY OR WOULDNT TURN OVER, SOON A CALIFORNIA STATE TOW TRUCK PULLED UP HE TRIED TO JUMP IT ,NOTHING, HE TOWED ME TO A SAFE PLACE, THEN I CALLED TRIPLE A SAME THING, I WAS TOWED HOME AFTER I ASSUMR THE CRANKSHAFT COOLED IT STARTED WITH A KNOCK, THERE WAS NO KNOCK WHEN IT SIEZED, I GOT HOME AND SEEN THEY GAVE ME GWC WARRANTY, IM PAYING FOR THEY DIDNT EVEN MENTION THAT WHEN I BOUGHT IT, ,THE STORY IS WORSE THIS WAS THE SECOND CAR FROM THIS DEALER,THE FIRST ONE I HAD 1 DAY AND HEARD RODS KNOCKING ON COLD STARTS I TOOK IT RIGHT BACK, THATS HOW THEY GOT ME IN THIS I WAS KINDA CORNERED, I CALLED GWC THEY SAID SEND IT TO A DEALER SO I SENT IT TO HYUNDAI ,AT FIRST THEY TOLD ME THE ENGINE SIEZED AND SAID ITS COVERED BY HYUNDAI, THEN SAID THE NEXT DAY THEY DENIED IT BECOUSE THE KNOCK SENSOR UPDATE WAS NEVER COMPLETED FROM 2020,I ONLY HAD THE CAR 1 MONTH IT SIEZED ON [XXX],SO NOW THERE TRYING MY GWC COVERAGE WHO TELLS HYUNDAI THEY WILL COVER A USED ENGINE,I SAID OK, I HAVE BEEN COMMUNICATING WITH THE HYUNDAI SERVICE MANAGER, HE DID TELL ME OVER THE PHONE HE DOESNT BELIEVE IT WAS EVEN LEGAL FOR THEM TO SELL ME THAT CAR,ALSO YES THE BLINKERS DID CONSTANTLY GO THE WRONG WAY,I DIDNT KNOW ABOUT THAT RECALL EITHER I KNOW IT WAS UPSETTING ME,EVERY TIME I LOOK MY BLINKER WAS GOING THE OTHER WAY,,I SEE LOTS OF RECALLS AND PROBLEMS WITH THE HYUNDAI ENGINES,HOW DO I REALY KNOW IF THAT WAS OR WASNT TAKEN CARE OF FOR THIS CAR OR WAS THERE A KNOCK SENSOR RECALL IN 2020, THE CAR HAS 144,000 MILES I BOUGHT IT WITH 141,051, HYUNDAI WARRANTY BECOUSE ENGINE SIEZURE IS 150,000, ITS STILL SITTING AT HYUNDAI WAITING FOR GWC TO SAY GO AHEAD ,HE KEEPS TELLING ME THEY WILL LET ME KNOW TOMAROW,I HAVE NO CAR, INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Other or unspecified, Sep 15, 2025
Vehicle: 2016 Hyundai Sonata Limited VIN: [XXX] Issue: Failed sunroof recall repair. Details: Vehicle had a manufacturer sunroof recall/service repair in 2018. Repair has now failed completely; sunroof detached. Vehicle is unsafe to drive and exposed to weather elements. Local dealership quoted $2,100 for repair, despite this being a failed manufacturer remedy for a known safety defect. Hyundai corporate and my financing company have been contacted; issue remains unresolved. Impact: Cannot safely operate vehicle, preventing commuting and daily use. Causing financial hardship. Requested Action: Investigate as a failed recall repair. Ensure Hyundai provides a remedy in compliance with federal safety regulations. Thank you, My Contact Information: [XXX] [XXX] [XXX] [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Forward collision avoidance, Sep 10, 2025
The contact owns a 2016 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated that while driving 10 MPH, the Forward Collision Avoidance: Automatic Emergency Braking system engaged abruptly while there was no other vehicle or object near the vehicle, which nearly caused another vehicle to rear-end the vehicle. The contact pulled over to the side of the road. The contact was able to continue driving. The dealer was notified of the failure, and an appointment was scheduled for diagnostic testing. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 111,000.
Electrical system, Vehicle speed control, Engine, Sep 5, 2025
Pushed acceleration at traffic light to cross and turn into neighborhood, car started beeping frantically, 'check hev system' flashed on dash as well as 'turn off engine' while car decelerated to 1-3 mph. Battery meter bar on left side of dash completely depleted showing no battery power supply at all. Turned vehicle off for a few minutes then restarted. Put the vehicle in drive gear and same warnings appear, car doesn't even accelerate when gas pedal is pressed fully, stays at 1-3 mph crawl. Vehicle stalls out after 30 seconds, vehicle turns on but cannot start.