Owners filed 80 complaints about this vehicle with federal regulators, most often about the engine. It has been recalled 3 times.
When it fails
06600066,000 milesMedian miles at failure
37 complaints record an odometer reading. Failures cluster around 75,000–90,000 miles.
What fails
Component
Reports
Crashes
Fires
Injuries
Engine
36
1
1
0
Electrical System
10
0
0
0
Power Train
5
0
0
0
Unknown or Other
4
0
1
0
Steering
4
0
0
0
Engine and Engine Cooling
4
0
1
0
Service Brakes
3
0
0
0
Fuel/Propulsion System
3
0
1
0
Exterior Lighting
2
0
0
0
Visibility/Wiper
1
0
0
0
3 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.
Engine21V727000
Filed Sep 17, 202195,515 vehiclesHyundai Motor America
Defect. Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2017 Tucson and Sonata Hybrid vehicles. The connecting rod bearings inside the engine may wear prematurely, which 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. 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. Owners were notified of the defect on November 16, 2021. Owner notification letters were mailed January 15, 2022. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 209.
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.
What owners reported
Newest filings
Engine and Engine Cooling
Filed Sep 1, 2026110,000 milesCA
The contact owns a 2017 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated that the vehicle experienced excessive oil consumption with an abnormal burning odor. The vehicle was taken to a dealer, and an oil consumption test was performed. The contact was informed that the vehicle passed the inspection. While driving later, the vehicle stalled and was taken back to the dealer, where it was determined that the vehicle was consuming an excessive amount of engine oil, and several DTC including the Knock Sensor Detection System (KSDS) were found. The contact stated that while driving or reversing at various speeds, the vehicle shuddered, made abnormal rattling sounds, entered HEV Lock Mode, and the vehicle stalled. The vehicle occasionally came to a complete stop in the middle of the road and had to be pushed out of the roadway. On other occasions, the driver was able to pull over to the side of the road. The vehicle failed to restart and was towed after stalling. The contact stated that the check engine warning light was illuminated before the vehicle entered HEV Lock Mode, with several unknown warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, where several tests, including bearing clearance tests and unknown repairs, were performed; however, the failure persisted. During the final service visit, the dealer diagnosed the vehicle with engine wear and tear and fractured pistons. The dealer determined that the engine needed to be replaced; however, the service manager informed the co
Engine
Filed Jun 10, 2026GA
The Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV) system in my 2017 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid Limited malfunctioned. On three separate occasions, the HEV warning light illuminated while I was driving on the highway, followed by a sudden loss of power. The vehicle stalled and stopped running, leaving it inoperable. The incidents occurred in approximately August 2022, November 2023, and February 2026. The vehicle is available for inspection upon request. Each incident occurred while driving on a highway. The vehicle suddenly lost power and stalled in moving traffic, creating a significant safety hazard. I was forced to attempt to move the vehicle out of active traffic lanes while other vehicles were traveling at highway speeds. The unexpected loss of propulsion increased the risk of a crash, serious injury, or death to myself, my passengers, and other motorists. The vehicle was taken to a Hyundai dealership after each incident. However, the dealership did not provide an explanation for the HEV warning light, loss of power, or stalling condition. To my knowledge, no permanent repair was identified, and the problem recurred on multiple occasions. The vehicle was inspected by a Hyundai dealership following each towing event. The vehicle was towed after each incident because it was not safe to drive. To my knowledge, Hyundai did not provide a definitive cause for the failures. The vehicle has not been inspected by police or insurance representatives in connection with
Engine
Filed Apr 15, 2026FL
2/25/2026 vehicle was put in service for a safety warranty recall. 2/26/2026 Hyundai approved the replacement of the engine, but there were costs involved that I was responsible for (approx. $800). 3/9/2026 I was informed by Hyundai the vehicle was complete, and would now last "for another 200,000 miles". I picked up the vehicle and only drove 5+ miles from the dealership when the vehicle’s motor completely shut down, putting me in a VERY UNSAFE driving condition, almost causing a serious accident. Vehicle was returned to Hyundai the same day and I was informed they were still figuring out the failure and to be patient. 3/11/2026 Hyundai informed the vehicle would now need a new catalytic converter and O2 sensor, and that it would all be covered under warranty. On 3/12/2026 Hyundai informed me that they would not fully cover the cost of the new parts and I ended up paying another $1300. 3/19/2026 Hyundai notified me that the vehicle service was complete, and the vehicle was ready for pick-up. I picked up the vehicle that day and again only drove 5+ miles when the vehicle repeated the same failure with the motor completely shutting down and again putting me in a VERY UNSAFE driving condition and almost causing a serious accident. Vehicle returned to Hyundai the same day. 3/23/2026 was told I would receive update once technician gets to the vehicle. 3/26/2026 informed that the vehicles Brake Booster Actuator needed replaced, and I have to cover the almost $4000 to replace this
Electrical System
Filed Nov 29, 2025UT
While traveling 40 mph, car flashes a warning, "Check Hybrid System", and then the car shuts off. No power steering and brakes are difficult. The warning is only 3-5 seconds before everything shuts down. This is definitely a hazard to myself and others. If in traffic at higher speeds, there would certainly be an accident with devastating results.
Engine
Filed Sep 21, 2025MA
The engine shut off on the highway on two different days. Vehicle was going between 65 and 70 mph. The vehicle engine shut down and all the warning lights came on. Every one. The vehicle still moved but nothing inside worked, it ran on battery mode for the 17 miles to the dealership with a maximum speed of 60 mph. The risk was the immediate unresponsiveness of the vehicle and the sudden and immediate reduction in speed and power. It presented itself twice in about 2,000 miles. The dealership charged a 491$ diagnostic and found all the warnings and reset it, not reason for it happening and sent me on my way. Then it happened again. Brought back to the dealership and they tried to say they did another diagnostic and called the tech helpline. It took hours and they still don’t have a definitive answer, wanted to try almost 2k in repairs to see if it would fix the issue without any guarantees it would. Warning lights, all of them came on, cruise control, abs, engine light blinking, steering, literally everything and messages started running through the information center.
Service Brakes
Filed Sep 12, 2025MD
Vehicle: 2017 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid – 131,700 miles – Maryland registered While driving, my vehicle displayed the warning “Check Hybrid System. Turn off engine.” The dealer diagnosed a failure of the Hydraulic Control Assembly (ABS/Brake Control Unit). This is a safety-critical braking system. The vehicle is unsafe to drive until repaired. Hyundai previously issued recalls for this same component on earlier Sonata Hybrid models (2011–2015), due to risk of brake failure and fire. My 2017 vehicle is experiencing the exact same failure, yet is not currently included in the recall. This defect should be investigated as it compromises safe braking performance and puts drivers and passengers at risk. I am requesting that NHTSA review this issue and consider expanding Hyundai’s recall coverage to include later model years like mine.
Structure › Body
Filed Aug 25, 2025NC
I was drying my car after washing it(I only use products approved for washing and drying vehicles) when a piece of paint on the hood just peeled off. It has not been wrecked or damaged in any way on the hood so I feel it must be a defective paint job from the factory.
Electrical System › Instrument Panel › Speedometer/Odometer
Filed Jun 16, 2025105,000 milesTN
Odometer Fraud. The contact stated that while attempting to purchase a 2017 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid, it was later discovered that there was a mileage discrepancy. The vehicle was not yet purchased. The vehicle mileage was 87,000, but the contact later discovered that the mileage was 105,000.
Engine and Engine Cooling
Filed Jun 10, 2025183,000 milesVA
The contact owns a 2017 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid. The contact stated while driving at various speeds, the contact noticed an abnormal ticking sound coming from the engine. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed with engine failure due to the rod bearings failure. The dealer determined that the engine needed to be replaced and informed the contact that the repair was not covered under an unknown recall due to the mileage. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 183,000.
Steering
Filed May 9, 2025FL
Driving the vehicle, I was turning right on exit , the steering wheels turn extremely hard. It turn so hard have to pull over on side of the road. Steering light and traction turn on. Cycle the key and vehicle reset light nothing happen. Vehicle do not give fault code after key was cycle.
Engine
Filed Mar 19, 2025AZ
FAIL/MALFUNCTION 3/18/25: Internal engine failure diagnosed by local Avondale, AZ Hyundai dealership service - rod bearing failure suspected. Vehicle currently undergoing Bearing Clearance Test to affirm this or any connecting rod issues, with possible need for total engine replacement. When googling "Hyundai Sonata hybrid 2017 internal engine failure," masses of reports generate from consumers with this model, complaining of same defect, as do numerous recalls for such defects that have been mandated for the model with range of years including 2017.Yet when searching with my VIN, it says no recalls have been mandated, in spite of the undeniable, widespread identical defect. Available for inspection. SAFETY RISK: Driving on the freeway in city traffic at 70-75mph, the engine completely stopped and all dash lights lit up at once. Vehicle had to be coasted to shoulder to wait for roadside assistance. Extremely hazardous to us in vehicle and to all around us with sudden, dramatic speed change in moving, constant freeway traffic. First time: Our usual mechanics at Pep Boys did diagnostic but found nothing, the vehicle drove normally for them, yet they did our regular tune-up, oil change, etc. Two weeks later, the same event happened on freeway, identical to first time. We were very lucky that no crashes happened either time. Pep Boys advised that Hyundai investigate the issue. PRIOR SYMPTOMS: No warning lights or sounds presented until the events themselves, when the entire dash
Engine
Filed Feb 3, 2025WV
The vehicle had a recall to replace the motor for bearing failure. They replaced my motor at 101,000 miles. The second motor than failed for the exact recall of bearing failure at 65,000 miles on the new motor. They told me that since I had already have done the recall and my car was now out of warranty that I would have to pay 10% of the repair bill for another motor. This second motor should have been included in that recall.
Engine
Filed Feb 3, 202566,000 milesOR
The contact's son owns a 2017 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid. The contact stated that while her son was driving at an undisclosed speed, he smelled a burning odor on the interior of the vehicle, after which he heard an abnormal sound coming from the engine compartment. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer to be diagnosed; however, the contact was not aware of the diagnostic report. The vehicle was not repaired. After investigating the failure, the contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V727000 (Engine); the VIN was included, and parts were available. The contact also stated that the vehicle had a Salvage Title. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 66,000.
Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Dec 21, 2024FL
Literally for years I have been taking my car in to Rick Case Hyundai with the complaint of smelling gas even when the car was parked for long periods. Each time they said they fixed with different items. Gas cap, a part on the catalytic converter, etc. The problem never resolved but I noticed it only happened when the tank was more than half full. I got a video of gas dripping out underneath and took the car to Rick Case and gave them the video. My car has been there ten days because they first tried to say it was a seal on the fuel pump. This time I said that seems unlikely cause that only happens when tank is full and persists even after car is parked many hours. Now they report they found a pinhole leak in the gas tank. I will upload the video if this form allows. This does not appear to be a pinhole leak to me. I first noticed this around 2019. Unfortunately the video is MP4 and I cannot upload it.
Unknown or Other
Filed Nov 11, 2024FL
My 2017 Hyundai Santa hybrid limited it all started with 11 icons appeared on the dash took it to Hyundai dealership Gainesville to be fixed in July of 2024 dropped it off Wednesday they emailed me with a price of 1563.70 I okay it to be fixed. I picked it up that following Saturday no sooner after leaving halfway home the check engine light came on took it back the following Monday they pulled it in the shop no more than 15 minutes later they pulled it out said they fixed it said if it should happen again to bring it back shortly after leaving check engine light came on again took it back to them and fixed it left check engine light came on again so I took it to Tallahassee Hyundai dealership they changed cabin air filter and engine filter we left the check engine light came on again so we took it back to them again and they found nothing . Then the check engine light was still on then the car wouldn't start so I had to pay to have it towed to Hyundai dealership of Gainesville again told them now the car won't start and it's been there since October 20 2024 spoke to them many times I still haven't gotten any one that can seem to fix my car they don't return phone calls just give me the run around it's my only car I have never heard of a dealership that can't fix there own car they sell . I'm getting nobody that is willing to help me and the car is not paid for im so upset is this the kind of business you provide to your customer's.
Visibility/Wiper
Filed Oct 23, 2024HI
Windshield wiper motor started to operate slowly and at times stops with wiper blades in middle of windshield.
Engine
Filed Sep 25, 2024PA
ENGINE OIL MISFIRE ALSO NOTED AS A RECALL ON THE 2016 MODEL AND REPEATEDLY MENTIONED ON LINE AS AN ERROR IN THE 2017 MODEL NOW REACHING SIMLAR MILEAGES. DEALER IS REFUSING TO ACKNOWLEDGE IT AS A PROBLEM AND SAYS THE ENGINE LIGHT SI NOT RECORDING THE ERROR AND YET AN OUTSIDE ANALYSIS SAYS ITS ERROR 0302!! THE SAME AS THE 2016 RECALL NOTICE. THE 2017'S SHOULD BE RECALLED FOR THE SAME FIX
Power Train
Filed Sep 5, 2024PA
What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? Vehicle stopped accelerating and flashing check engine light went on. Vehicle reported "Check Hybrid System." Dealer believes it was loose pins in a HCULDC connector that may have caused loss of communication. How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? Lost acceleration on a highway and was nearly hit trying to get off of the road. Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? Piazza Hyundai of Pottstown, PA reproduced the issue. Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others? Dealer secured loose pins. Were there any warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, and when did they first appear? No.
Power Train
Filed Sep 2, 2024NY
While driving, car started to lose power. Warning lights started flashing to turn off vehicle to recharge battery. Car lost all power. Car was towed to dealership. Dealer started diagnostic testing, and first thing that was noted is that all oil had drained from car and that crank shaft may now be damaged. Prior to incident, no warning lights came on for service, engine or oil lamp. Dealer and internet searched confirm this has been happening to this model recently.
Engine
Filed Aug 31, 2024TN
This is the seventh occurrence of complete loss of power while driving on the interstate. The hybrid system warning activated, followed by the engine shutting down, and all dashboard lights illuminated with alerts indicating "Shut Off Engine/HEV." An 18 wheeler was pulling out from the shoulder as I was losing power and barely missed getting crushed. The former problems have all been at interstate speeds with similar accident avoided. The service history clearly demonstrates that Hyundai has repeatedly attempted to address this issue by replacing numerous critical components, including the engine, transmission, knock sensor, battery (three times), integrated brake actuation system, and smart cruise control, among others. Despite these extensive repairs, the problem persists. On this latest occasion, less than 4,000 miles and four months since the last major incident, the dealership has proposed replacing the intake manifold, EGR valve, HSG belt, and spark plugs. The belt was changed less than 20K miles ago. and I believe the spark plugs were as well. Each time my vehicle experiences this issue, it is out of commission for weeks or even months at a time, causing significant inconvenience and raising serious safety concerns. I no longer trust this vehicle and I don't believe the many recalls have successfully addressed the root cause of issues with the 2017 Hybrids.
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.