2016 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid

Routine

Owners filed 133 complaints about this vehicle with federal regulators, most often about the engine. It has been recalled 5 times.

Not among the Hyundai Sonata Hybrid years to avoid. Which Hyundai Sonata Hybrid years to avoid →

When it fails
020k40k60k90k120k200k
66,000 milesMedian miles at failure

86 complaints record an odometer reading. Failures cluster around 30,000–40,000 miles.

Most common 2016 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid problems

62 of the 133 complaints (47%) are about the engine.

ComponentReportsCrashesFiresInjuries
Engine59
000
Electrical System22
010
Unknown or Other12
010
Service Brakes · brakes7
000
Power Train · transmission6
100
Exterior Lighting · headlights5
000
Visibility › Sun/Moon Roof Assembly2
000
Vehicle Speed Control · throttle and acceleration2
100
Structure › Body · body and frame2
000
Steering2
201

5 safety recalls

Part 573 reports
Electrical System › Software21V749000
Filed Sep 24, 2021469,377 vehiclesHyundai Motor America

Defect. 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.

Risk. A turn signal that activates in the opposite direction of what was intended by the driver increases the risk of a crash.

Remedy. 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.

Latches/Locks/Linkages › Trunk Lid › Latch21V619000
Filed Aug 6, 2021348,158 vehiclesHyundai Motor America

Defect. Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2017-2018 Sonata, 2016-2018 Sonata Hybrid, 2018-2020 Accent, and 2016-2017 Azera vehicles. The trunk latch may become damaged, preventing the opening of the trunk from the inside. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 401, "Internal Trunk Release."

Risk. A person inside the trunk compartment may become trapped, increasing their risk of injury.

Remedy. Dealers will replace the trunk latch base, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 4, 2021. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 208.

Engine20V746000
Filed Dec 1, 2020128,948 vehiclesHyundai Motor America

Defect. Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2015-2016 Veloster, 2012 Santa Fe, 2011-2013 Sonata Hybrid, and 2016 Sonata Hybrid vehicles. The connecting rod bearings inside the engine may wear prematurely, which over time can result in engine damage.

Risk. A damaged engine can increase the risk of a fire or it can cause an engine stall, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy. Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the engine. If bearing damage is found, the engine will be replaced. Dealers will also install a software update containing a new Knock Sensor Detection System (KSDS). Repairs will be performed free of charge. The recall began March 31, 2021. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 198.

Visibility › Sun/Moon Roof Assembly16V726000
Filed Oct 11, 201662,811 vehiclesHyundai Motor America

Defect. 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.

Risk. If the sunroof detaches from the vehicle it could become a road hazard, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy. 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.

Air Bags › Frontal16V232000
Filed Apr 21, 201633 vehiclesHyundai Motor America

Defect. 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.

Risk. An air bag that does not inflate increases the risk of injury.

Remedy. 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.

All 5 campaigns on file, newest first.

What owners reported

Newest filings
Engine
Filed Oct 7, 202688,385 milesNV

The contact owns a 2016 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated that while driving 70 MPH, the vehicle went into LIMP Mode and decelerated. The check engine warning light and the battery warning light were illuminated. The failure was a recurring failure. The vehicle was towed to the first dealer, and the contact was informed that an oil change was needed. The failure persisted, and the vehicle was taken to another dealer and was diagnosed and DTC: C222908; was retrieved. The manufacturer was contacted by phone and made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 88,385.

Power Train
Filed Sep 7, 2026IN

Vehicle Impact:While driving, the vehicle suddenly displayed a "Check Hybrid System" warning on the dashboard and suffered a complete, sudden loss of propulsion while on the road. The vehicle dropped power completely and would not restart, creating an immediate, severe safety hazard to myself and surrounding traffic.Diagnostic & Component Confirmation:The vehicle was towed to a certified Hyundai dealership (Hyundai of Goshen, Repair Order #6080674). Diagnostic testing confirmed trouble codes P0717 (Input Speed Sensor No Signal) and P0A40 (Drive Motor Position Sensor).The dealership's certified technician explicitly documented that they "followed TSB and found input speed sensor valve body harness is faulty due to heavy corrosion on the sensor connector."Safety Hazard Summary:This is a critical manufacturing and sealing defect where an internal, non-wear component (the transmission valve body wire harness) corrodes prematurely. This corrosion blinds the hybrid control modules to the electric motor's position and output speed. To protect itself, the computer initiates a hard, uncommanded shutdown of the hybrid drivetrain while the vehicle is in motion.Hyundai Motor America was contacted (Case #43225229) but denied any financial or safety assistance because this documented Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) defect has not yet been elevated to a formal safety recall. This sudden powertrain failure presents an unreasonable risk of rear-end collisions and catastrophic highway acciden

Engine
Filed Jul 17, 2026FL

EGR needs to be replaced as this is a major engine issue

Unknown or Other
Filed Nov 22, 2025TX

Vehicle experiences intermittent DTC C222908 (Integrated Brake Actuator internal circuit malfunction). Warning lights (Brake, ABS, ESC, Hybrid System) illuminate intermittently, brake pedal feel changes, and regenerative braking fails. Dealer confirmed stored code but refused repair stating "no current issue". This is a known failure in 2015-2019 Hyundai hybrids that can lead to sudden loss of hydraulic brake assist and increased stopping distance. Safety critical defect.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Oct 9, 2025FL

The car will randomly lose acceleration and jerk forward. It will make a beeping noise while the hev system warning flashes on the dash. It also says to turn off engine. While the warning is flashing and engine light is on it goes into a limp mode and you have limited acceleration. It has almost caused multiple wrecks when I go to acceleration from turning or at lights in traffic because I cant go over 20-30 mph. I have turned the car on and off and the hev system and engine light turns off and the car continues to work normal. It eventually comes back on and does the same loss of power/hev warning. It will be random and does not matter on how fast you are going to trigger the warning lights and loss of power.

Engine
Filed Aug 13, 2025140,600 milesMN

The contact owns a 2016 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid. The contact stated that while driving at 20 MPH, the message "Shut Down" was displayed, and the vehicle lost motive power. The contact was able to pull over to the side of the road; however, the vehicle failed to restart. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, where it was diagnosed with engine failure, and the contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired due to the cost. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and declined to cover the repair under warranty. The failure mileage was approximately 140,600.

Engine
Filed May 6, 202570,000 milesCA

The contact owns a 2016 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle went into LIMP Mode with several unknown warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the dealer and was diagnosed with engine failure. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 70,000.

Electrical System
Filed May 2, 202580,000 milesMA

The contact owns a 2016 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle inadvertently lost motive power. The contact was able to pull over to the shoulder of the roadway, and the message "Warning - Do not Attempt to Restart" was displayed. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, who diagnosed a failure of the engine wiring harness. The vehicle was repaired, but the failure reoccurred. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer and was diagnosed as a failure with the engine wiring harness. The vehicle was not repaired. The vehicle had been back to the dealer several times. Recently, the contact was informed that the wiring harness was soy-based insulated, and rodents were causing damage to the wiring harness due to the smell. The manufacturer was notified of the failure but provided no assistance. The failure mileage was 80,000. The VIN was not available.

Engine
Filed Feb 24, 2025180,000 milesCA

The contact owns a 2016 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid. The contact stated while driving approximately 65 MPH, the check engine warning light was illuminated, and the vehicle stalled. The contact was able to exit the highway; however, the contact was unable to restart the vehicle. The contact had the vehicle towed to a dealer to be diagnosed. The vehicle was diagnosed, and it was determined that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact stated that prior to the engine failure, the engine had been replaced two years prior. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 180,000.

Engine
Filed Sep 17, 2024OH

While on the highway vehicle started shaking violently, flashing engine light then service hybrid system along with every light on the dash! Car still running poorly, stiff steering very hard to slow down to get to safety! By the time I was able to pull over the engine was knocking and a burning smell was coming from the engine compartment. I popped the hood shut the car off , the exhaust manifold and converter(in one together) was so hot it was glowing! I’m thankful I was able to get to safety without it catching fire because it was on its way there! I called for a tow and sent it to the dealer where Hyundai is replacing the engine.

Visibility › Sun/Moon Roof Assembly
Filed Jul 19, 2024103,000 milesHI

The contact owns a 2016 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the driver's side sunroof detached. The contact stated that the sunroof was caught up on the netting in front of the sunroof. The contact stated that the tracks were fractured. There were no warning lights illuminated. The local dealer was contacted but the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was contacted, and the contact was informed that the repair was not covered under NHTSA Campaign Number: 16V726000 (Visibility). The approximate failure mileage was 103,000.

Engine
Filed Apr 22, 2024147,000 milesNJ

The contact owns a 2016 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid. The contact stated while driving approximately 60 MPH, the check engine warning light illuminated, and the message "Check Hybrid System, Turn Off the Engine" was displayed, and the vehicle was shaking while decelerating. The vehicle was towed to the dealer where it was diagnosed with the Technical Service Bulletin: 198. The Technical Service Bulletin was completed; however, the failure recurred. The vehicle was towed to the same dealer where it was diagnosed with a drained battery and catalytic converter failure. The vehicle was repaired; however, the failure recurred. The vehicle was towed to the same dealer. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 147,000.

Engine and Engine Cooling
Filed Mar 27, 2024104,000 milesNY

The contact owns a 2016 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid. The contact stated while operating the vehicle, the dashboard warning lights had suddenly activated and the vehicle went into LIMP Mode causing the vehicle to decelerate. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer on several occasions and the NOx sensor, intake manifold and EGR were replaced but the failure persisted. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, but no assistance was offered. The failure mileage was 104,000.

Unknown or Other
Filed Mar 19, 2024OH

The wind guard for the panoramic sunroof of my 2016 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid broke & flew almost all the way off while driving down [XXX] in the Cleveland area. I was able to grab the end before it broke off completely and flew into traffic behind me. There was no warning prior to detachment. Hyundai insists this part failure is not part of a prior recall for this exact same product failure on this make & model and therefore will not cover. Their suggested solution is glue. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Engine
Filed Feb 19, 2024FL

While driving the car completely cut off i could not use my brakes my horn or steering wheel

Engine
Filed Jan 20, 2024VA

My check Hybrid system light comes on and then my car stops allowing me to drive , the gas stops working ! This happened 3 times on the highway very dangerous

Engine
Filed Nov 10, 2023NC

I was driving on the freeway and the car went from 70 mph to 60 then 50 then 40 slowing on the freeway each second. This has happened multiple times, each time taken in Hyundai and “repaired” only to happen a couple months later.

Engine
Filed Oct 23, 2023FL

HEV WARNING TURN OFF ENGINE CAR STARTED SHAKING while driving on the interstate gas pedal went to the floor car started making a loud noise from the engine I put car in park and it would not move for 45 minutes at a stop sign

Forward Collision Avoidance › Adaptive Cruise Control
Filed Oct 23, 2023FL

HEV WARNING TURN OFF ENGINE SIGN WHILE DRIVING ON THE INTERSTATE MY CAR LOST POWER AND THE CAR BEHIND ME HAD TO SUDDENLY MOVE OVER THIS IS VERY UNSAFE WHILE DRIVING DOWN THE INTERSTATE

Electrical System
Filed Oct 12, 2023GA

As I was driving on the highway at 65MPH, a sudden warning appeared on the dashboard that read, "CHECK HYBRID SYSTEM/TURN OFF ENGINE". Immediately after that, I noticed that my vehicle started behaving erratically, making it difficult to control. I stepped on the gas pedal expecting the car to pick up speed and move forward. Despite the pressure I applied, the car failed to accelerate, leaving me stuck in my current position. After nearly causing a severe accident on a busy interstate, I was able to safely pull my car over to the side of the road. After conducting extensive research, I discovered that the issue I am facing with my hybrid vehicle is actually quite common among Hyundai Sonata Hybrids. It's surprising to note that despite this problem's prevalence, no recall or common solution has been provided to address it. I am highly concerned that Hyundai has not taken any action to address this issue. I request an immediate resolution as I could have been severely injured or lost my life today!

Unknown or Other
Filed Jul 21, 2023CA

I was driving to work and suddenly my car gives me signal hybrid system alert turn off the engine and completely shut down on me as I was in the freeway. Thankful I made to safe area. I had it tow to the dealership and they are mentioning to me that they are not sure if is Power train module but they want charge me $1391. They say is not guaranteed that’s going to fix the issue the service advisor mentioned he could be the transmission or the engine. I’m just so overwhelmed because me taking there I thought they have everything figure it out. Communication with them is really hard to get through them they always giving me the round arounds. Please help

Visibility
Filed Jun 15, 2023130,000 milesOH

The contact owns a 2016 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated that while driving approximately 55 MPH, the sunroof exploded without impact. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified about the failure. The contact stated that the failure was related to NHTSA Campaign Number: 16V726000 (Visibility). The failure mileage was approximately 130,000.

Unknown or Other
Filed May 1, 2023TN

Panoramic sunroof wind deflector bonding failed. The detached wind deflector can come off while driving and interferes with the sunroof closing. It’s possible that the wind deflector and the glass sunroof could detach entirely while driving and cause an accident. I have used the sunroof feature less than 5 times since purchasing the vehicle in May 2019. There is a recall on this part for the Sonata Hybrids for the dates of 12/8/14 to 8/18/15. On 4/7/23 Long Hyundai of Chattanooga confirmed the problem and charged me $185.73 to look at the problem. They will order a new part and install it which will cost me $398.94. I declined because I think that this is a manufactured flaw that should be repaired by Hyundai at no cost to me. I have spoken at length with Hyundai customer service representatives and was informed that they would not repair it because it is not included in the recall. They recommended that I contact Better Business Bureau. BBB Auto Line informed me that NHTSA handles recall issues.

Service Brakes, Air
Filed Apr 20, 2023130,000 milesFL

The contact owns a 2016 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid. The contact stated that while driving at approximately 60 MPH, the brake pedal was depressed and failed to respond. The "Stop Car, Check Brakes" message was displayed. The ABS and traction control warning lights were illuminated. The contact pulled over and turned off the vehicle, and stated that after restarting the vehicle, the warning lights were no longer illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer where it was diagnosed and serviced under NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V746000 (Engine) and 21V749000 (Exterior Lighting, Electrical System). The vehicle was repaired; however, the failure reoccurred intermittently. The vehicle was then taken to Homestead Hyundai (111 S Homestead Blvd, Homestead, FL 33030) where it was diagnosed that the power brake booster and rear wheel speed sensors needed to be replaced. The power brake booster was replaced; however, the failure reoccurred. The vehicle was then taken back to the dealer, and the wheel speed sensors were replaced. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 130,000.

Electrical System
Filed Mar 30, 2023IL

HEV turn off engine light pops up WHILE driving. I could’ve been on the highway or the middle of no where and have to turn off my car, just to turn it back on and it seems fine? This has happened a total of 5 times since owning this vehicle, and I’ve gotten all code on the car fixed about a month ago.

SteeringCrash1 injured
Filed Feb 28, 202313,000 milesSC

The contact owned a 2016 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid. The contact stated that while driving approximately 25 MPH, the steering wheel became firm while navigating a turn, and the vehicle crashed into a tree. There were no warning lights illuminated. The contact was unconscious and woke up to being treated by an EMT. The contact sustained injuries to his chest and fractured ribs. Medical attention was provided at the hospital. The air bags deployed as needed. A Police report was filed. The vehicle was towed to a tow lot. The vehicle was deemed a total loss. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was approximately 13,000.

Engine
Filed Feb 21, 2023163,000 milesCA

The contact owns a 2016 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid. The contact stated that while his wife was driving at a slow speed out of the driveway, she heard a knocking sound coming from under the hood. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the dealer where it was diagnosed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired; however, the failure recurred. The contact stated that after the vehicle was retrieved from the dealer, the check engine warning light illuminated after 300 miles. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 163,000.

Engine
Filed Jan 20, 202367,036 milesGA

The contact owns a 2016 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid. 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 low oil and engine failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V746000 (Engine). The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 67,036. The contact noted that the failure speed was approximately 40 mph. It wasn't long after purchasing the vehicle that the engine seized while driving. The contact stated that the manufacturer will not honor the warranty due to the incident occurring from "an outside influence". Said influence is unknown to the contact.

Electrical System
Filed Nov 21, 2022TX

While driving on the highway at speed, I received a red Check Hybrid System error, and immediately lost all acceleration, putting myself and all occupants at risk on a busy interstate highway, as we tried to find a safe way to quickly change lanes and coast to a stop in a safe location. The cause is under diagnosis by a Hyundai Service Center. This was a sudden failure and there had been no previous warning alerting us to substandard system condition.

Engine
Filed Sep 1, 202234,252 milesCA

The contact owns a 2016 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid. The contact stated while driving approximately 65 MPH, several unknown warning lights illuminated and the vehicle decelerated independently. The contact was able to park on the side of the road before the vehicle stalled. The vehicle was not drivable. The contact towed the vehicle to a local dealer, where it was diagnosed with needing the knock sensor to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer had not been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was 34,252.

Engine
Filed Aug 9, 2022NC

My vehicle first went into limp mode and stalled while driving December 2021. Vehicle was taken to Dealership in Alpharetta, GA. I was advised the knock sensor needed an update. The update was completed but the vehicle continued to go in limp mode and stall again March 2022 after driving less than 1000 miles since previous repair. The vehicle was taken to dealership in Wake Forest, NC. This time there was no update for the knock sensor so I was advised they would need to replace knock sensor but it was on backorder until end of May 2022. The knock senor was replaced picked up vehicle and engine light came on by the time I had drove 50 miles and vehicle started to go in limp mode and stall again and car started shaking an bad vibration. Drove the car next morning and it put me down again going into limp mode, stalling, whole dash board lit up every warning light on and dinging, car shaking and made loud noise had to have towed back to dealership. This time dealership claim it came from misfire on cylinder 3 but that doesn't explain all the issues. I was called to pick up car again June 2022 car had bad vibration, knocking, still going into limp and stall mode, hybrid system warning light came on again, gear sticking not changing like it's supposed to had towed back to dealership. This time dealership replaced other 3 cylinders picked up car July 2022. Did a test drive advised car is still stalling, gear still sticking, vibration still , air not cooling and hybrid indicator nee

Engine
Filed Jul 28, 2022TN

The car requires a quart of oil every 1 to two weeks. Brought it to multiple dealerships and was never given a reason why. Car was making knocking noises anytime driven at 45 or below and sometimes higher. We believe it had to be about the recall Hyundai has advised us about multiple times. We brought it to them on Friday July 22nd. They updated the Hybrid system and we left. Driving the car to work July 27th and the car went into “limp” mode and stated that there was a issue with the hybrid engine and to shut the car off immediately. I was able to pull the car off the road and turn it off. The engine light constantly blinked when the error happened. When I shut the car off and turned it back on, it the same hybrid error shows up on the screen again. We had to have it towed to the same dealership we went to the previous day. They have to diagnose the issue but it might take weeks because they have one hybrid tech.

Unknown or Other
Filed Jul 27, 2022NJ

There is a recall outstanding that for some reason isn't associated with my car's VIN so the manufacture Hyundai is refusing to pay or make repairs. They even suggested that I buy a part that should fix the problem, after paying $246.75 for the part; the problem remained. The recall number is 16-01-067 for 2016 SONATA (LF) and SONATA HYBRID (LF-HEV); my car is a 2016 Sonata Hybrid. SUBJECT: PANORAMIC SUNROOF WIND DEFLECTOR PLATE REPAIR (RECALL 152) Description: Certain 2015 and 2016 model year Hyundai Sonatas and 2016 Sonata Hybrids come equipped with an optional panoramic sunroof. The sunroof assembly incorporates a wind deflector to help reduce wind noise in the passenger compartment when the sunroof is open. If the wind deflector becomes partially detached from its mounting bracket while the sunroof is open, the deflector can interfere with the closing of the moveable sunroof panel. In some cases this interference can result in the sunroof panel detaching from its mounting tabs. If the sunroof panel detaches while the vehicle is in motion, the panel could become an obstacle to other drivers, increasing the risk of a crash. The wind deflector on my car detached a year ago and after several requests to fix the detached deflector the dealership hasn't and refuses to recognize the recall. Is there a way to help get my car's VIN appropriated associated to this recall so if can be fixed?

Exterior Lighting
Filed Jul 8, 2022110,000 milesCO

The contact owns a 2016 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V749000 (Exterior Lighting, Electrical System) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the vehicle was unable to start. The vehicle was towed to the dealer; however, the vehicle was not diagnosed nor repaired and remained at the dealer. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and a case was opened. The failure mileage was approximately 110,000. Parts distribution disconnect.

Electrical System
Filed Jun 22, 2022TX

I have a 2016 Hybrid Sonata [XXX], the dash started flashing and said...... HEV trouble! STOP the engine now! Now I have a orange engine light. I brought the car to the dealer. They will look at it and contact me. This car cost me plenty, last year they made me pay for a new engine, it would eat up a quart of oil every two weeks. That is 2 quarts a month. INFORMATION Redacted PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).

Engine and Engine Cooling › Exhaust System › Emission Control › Catalytic Convertor
Filed May 25, 2022120,000 milesNY

The contact owns a 2016 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid. The contact stated while driving approximately 55 MPH, the vehicle was shaking. The hybrid battery, PHEV system, and check engine warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle stalled. The vehicle was towed however, the independent mechanic was unable to determine the cause of the failure. The vehicle was then towed to the local dealer, who diagnosed a failure with the engine and catalytic converter. The engine was replaced. The failure reoccurred. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 120,000.

Engine
Filed May 17, 2022WI

Recently Service Campaign 966 (NHTSA ID Number: 10210205 Manufacturer Communication Number: 22-01-028H) was applied to my vehicle for improved knock sensor detection system (KSDS) logic. Six days following the software update, my vehicle stalled when DTC P1326 came active during my wife's commute home. We had the vehicle towed to the dealership where a knock sensor was identified to be replaced. 10 days after getting the vehicle back, knocking was heard from the engine compartment and DTC 1326 came active again, causing the vehicle to immediately stall. It did not go into engine protection mode as service campaign 966 indicated it would. My concern is that Hyundai changed the sensitivity of knock detection to prevent warranty claims on engines that may be affected by increased bearing wear; and in preventing replacing engines, they have caused engines (mine included) to stall. This engine stalling is a safety issue and they have left customers with no option to use their vehicle safely if the engine passes their bearing clearance test, which is required for an engine replacement under warranty.

Engine
Filed May 11, 2022FL

Recall [XXX] : Engine Inspection / Replacement ([XXX]) In the month of Oct 21, my Hyundai sonata hybrid, had severe engine issues and stalled. Upon inspection by dealer, it was determined, it needs engine replacement as there was a recall for these engines. After 3 months of waiting, in January 2022, I received my car back supposedly with the new engine. today [XXX] my car has stalled again with a similar engine issues and I have towed my car to the same dealer (DORAL HYUNDAI : Miami Florida) for inspection. fortunately i was not injured or ended up in an accident. the car just stalled suddenly with red lights on for every parameter along with engine light. luckily i was on the onramp and not in between the freeway. still was a dangerous situation as cars barely managed to save from hitting me when the car suddenly slowed down and stopped I feel, Hyundai didn't perform their replacement part effectively or efficiently. Probably replaced the car with a similar faulty engine. I request you to please investigate this matter my name is [XXX] and my email id is [XXX] and [XXX]. my cell phone number is [XXX]. thanks, [XXX] INFORMATION Redacted PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Apr 28, 2022WA

Hybrid system shut down while driving on I5 freeway at 60mph speed. Lost power completly finding myself in a very dangerous situation barely making it to the shoulder without being hit by other cars. This happened twice after 2 recalls performed on the car. Knock sensor replacement and software update. First recall was attempted by Hyundai of Kirkland WA. HEV system failure and multiple lights turned on while driving on the freeway the following day. Car was towed to Lee Johnson in Everett WA and I was told the recall was not performed correctly. After repair, same thing happened the following day. HEV failure and multiple lights turned on finding myself once again in very dangerous situation on the same busy freeway. Manufacturer is not taking this seriously. I see they have lots of vehicles with the same problem. Please investigate this failure before somebody dies. Next will file a police report. Car still at the dealership with no news on what might cause this. Has been at the dealer for over a week.

Electrical System
Filed Apr 20, 2022TX

The NHTSA has numerous complaints from owners of the 2016 Hyundai Sonata and 2016 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid with failures associated with the following: abnormal (knocking) noise from engine, reduced motive power and/or hesitation, illumination of the “Check Engine” warning lamp, illumination of engine oil pressure warning lamp, and a burning smell, oil leaking, and smoke. After research, I found the recall 21V301000, which lists “Part 573 Safety Recall Report 21V-301”, and I have attached it. I believe the piston oil rings are potentially a source of engine failure for the 2016 Hyundai Sonata and 2016 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid (since they are from the same manufacturer) and not the process and defect that Hyundai previously listed (that they stated was corrected), yet referenced in their recall. Hyundai and Kia both have defects with their ignition coils that have the shared part number: 27300-2E601, which also appears as: 27300 2E601. We have a 2016 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid Limited that is on its 3rd set of ignition coils, and some Hyundai Elantra and Kia Forte owners have reported the use of a 4th set of ignition coils. I have researched this part number by contacting multiple Hyundai Certified Parts Departments. A Hyundai Parts Department verified that the Hyundai Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 16-01-003-1 states that it “replaces” part number 27300-2E601 with part number 27300-2E601QQH, but they are the same exact part down to the 27300-2E601 appearing on both parts. One of the H

Engine
Filed Apr 11, 2022FL

On 04/09/2022 around 6:30 PM EDT, while driving on the Florida Turnpike at the posted 70 mph in Orlando FL, the 2015 Sonata Hybrid suddenly shut down in the center of 4-lanes with heavy traffic. The engine would not run and only sputtered and jerked when I gave it any gas. The display screen lit up with multiple failure symbols including the Hybrid System failure, lane detection failure, and several others. I exited the Turnpike and had a local auto store scan the vehicle finding the following DTC’s: 1. P1326: Excessive connecting rod bearing wear 2. U0293: Lost Communication with Hybrid Powertrain Control Module 3. U1004: Not certain The vehicle was checked and found to be full of oil. The vehicle was serviced at the Hyundai Dealer on 02/25/2022 where they specifically updated the “Excessive connecting rod bearing wear” knock sensor software along with a turn signal issue. Having the engine go into a default mode at 70 mph in heavy traffic was a near disaster. A simple warning would have been adequate to all me to safely navigate to the roadside.

Engine
Filed Apr 10, 2022AZ

When entering freeway and needing to get up to speed real quick, the car will accelerate to approximately 50mph and then engine totally cuts out like the gas stopped flowing to it. I then have to let off on the gas considerably or it will not accelerate until I let off on the gas about 1/2 way. I then must "Slowly" accelerate so that it won't cut the engine again. This will happen anywhere if I take off from 0 mph and try to accelerate with peddle eventually going to floor, the car will cut the engine and will feel like its dying until I let off on the gas peddle all the way and then slowly accelerate the vehicle up to speed.

Electrical System
Filed Apr 9, 2022AZ

IF I drive long distances for 30 minutes or more and then stop in somewhere and shut the vehicle off. Once I try and start it, it will give the Yellow CIL Check engine light and the HEV error, bring car to dealer. You have to wait approx 15-25 minutes and then it will start up again. I also seem to notice that it happens even faster when I put the transmission speed control into High Performance. The battery seems to overcharge and go well past the halfway mark almost to 80% and then once I power off and back on vehicle, I get the HEV error message and must wait 15-25 minutes before it will start.

Power Train
Filed Mar 30, 2022CA

Contact was driving on city streets, received Hybrid System Warning, turn off engine alert. Car slowed to dangerous speed in heavy traffic, would only drive under electric system. Car pulled over when safe, restarted, same issue recurred. Car brought to local repair shop, where trouble code #P261F recorded- "Coolant Pump A Control Circuit Stuck On." Mechanic discussed with dealer who said it should be under warranty. Towed to Keyes Mission Hills Hyundai in Mission Hills, CA. Fault diagnosed as electric water pump. Per Mission Hills, not covered under 10 year warranty, only 5 year warranty. Car 5 years, 7 month old,19,000 miles, out of warranty. Owner notified dealer about recall campaign 16-01-020 for this specific component. Awaiting consideration for goodwill repair from Hyundai as per the TSB for the campaign.

Hybrid Propulsion System
Filed Feb 28, 2022SC

I was traveling at 65 mph+ in heavy traffic on Friday rush hour when all dashboard error lights came on and then a banner that said TURN OFF ENGINE NOW. I had no acceleration and fortunately was at a point on the highway with a shoulder where I was able to pull over. I waited in the vehicle with high speed tractor trailer traffic passing close by. The vehicle was towed to the dealership. They replaced the hybrid battery . A week later the identical failure happened at highway speed. The vehicle is still in the shop for the second identical failure

Engine
Filed Feb 22, 202243,000 milesFL

The contact owns a 2016 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid. The contact stated that while driving at 75 MPH, he heard an abnormal popping sound coming from the engine. The contact stated that the engine started making abnormal rattling sounds and the vehicle was shuddering. The check engine warning light and the oil warning light illuminated. The contact continued to drive the vehicle to the residence. The vehicle was then towed to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed that oil had leaked in the engine compartment and that there was a hole in the engine. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact became aware of NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V746000 (Engine) and the dealer was contacted for the recall repair; however, the dealer informed the contact that the next service availability was in a month. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 43,000. Parts distribution disconnect.

Engine
Filed Feb 17, 2022204,000 milesCA

The contact owns a 2016 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid. The contact stated while driving 50 MPH, the vehicle started to violently shake and lose power while being powered by the engine. The contact stated the accelerator pedal was released and the shaking stopped as the vehicle switched to being powered by the battery. The contact stated as the vehicle was a hybrid vehicle the switch between using the engine and battery was done automatically when the accelerator pedal was released. The contact also stated that an abnormal noise was coming from the engine compartment when the vehicle was started. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where the failure was diagnosed as an engine misfire and that the coils needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired; however, the failure continued as soon as the vehicle was picked up from the dealer. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer where it was awaiting diagnostic testing. The contact recently received a Service Campaign from the manufacturer for the engine monitoring logic. The contact was relating the Service Campaign to the failure. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 204,000.

Electrical System › 12v/24v/48v Battery
Filed Feb 10, 202261,236 milesTX

******* DELETE VOQ ******* THIS COMPLAINT IS BEING MARKED FOR DELETION BECAUSE THE CONSUMER PLACED THE REQUEST*DJR ******* DELETE VOQ *******

Engine
Filed Feb 1, 2022TX

The vehicle concerned is a 2016 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid Limited. It originally presented a check engine and check oil light, and lost partial power traveling on the highway. This vehicle was able to return to its residence, and it was towed to a Hyundai Dealership. Photos and videos were taken of this vehicle prior to being towed, and its battery voltage was tested. The Hyundai Dealership initially reported a dead battery, and that diagnostics were completed. Further conversations took place to question if a jump box or battery charger had been used, and the manager offered to test this vehicle personally. The manager stated that two jump boxes started this vehicle, and then stated he drove this vehicle with two jump boxes connected. The manager insisted that this vehicle's issues were only caused by a failed (dead) battery. A new battery was purchased and then the Hyundai Dealership installed it. The mileage reported by the Hyundai Dealership on its invoice was 1 mile, yet the Hyundai Service Department stated that multiple test drives took place after battery was installed by them. The manager stated this car was fixed and safe enough that he would put a family member in it. This vehicle was picked up from the Hyundai Dealership, was driven on the highway, and an audible and visual warning along with multiple dash lights popped up. This vehicle stopped accelerating at highway speed, and it was necessary to call immediately call 911. Law Enforcement responded, and assisted. Th

Unknown or Other
Filed Jan 14, 2022CA

Car is not driving smoothly as before and is driving rough. Car has built up in rough sensation until car stalls for few seconds when engine changes from motor to electric with check engine light on then it resumes “normal” driving. Dealerships unable to find out cause of issue 3x.

Complaints 1-50 of 133, newest first, reproduced as filed.

Across model years

Worst on record: 2012
YearComplaintsRecallsFiresDeathsAssessment
20263100Routine
202511000Routine
20249000Routine
202315000Routine
202219000Routine
202155000Routine
202016100Routine
20195000Routine
20189100Routine
201781340Routine
2016 — this page133530Routine
201554430Routine
201428310Routine
2013108440Routine
2012155650Routine
201196650Routine

Compare every Sonata Hybrid year →

Reading this record

No unusual pattern of severe incidents in the complaint record.

Complaint counts track how many cars were sold and how long they have been on the road as much as they track quality. A common model from 2013 has had a decade to accumulate reports; a rare one from last year has not. The signal worth weighing is in the severity columns, in whether the same component keeps appearing, and in whether the manufacturer eventually opened a recall for it.

Recall repairs are free for as long as the recall stands. Check whether a specific car still has open work at NHTSA's VIN lookup.

Most recent recall on file: Sep 24, 2021. Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation.