2023 Hyundai Sonata

Routine

Owners filed 86 complaints about this vehicle with federal regulators, most often about the fuel/propulsion system. It has been recalled 2 times.

What fails
ComponentReportsCrashesFiresInjuries
Fuel/Propulsion System27
000
Engine18
100
Power Train9
100
Fuel System, Gasoline6
000
Electrical System6
000
Unknown or Other2
000
Structure › Body › Door2
000
Service Brakes2
000
Forward Collision Avoidance › Warnings2
000
Forward Collision Avoidance › Automatic Emergency Braking2
100

2 safety recalls

Part 573 reports
Fuel System, Gasoline25V796000
Filed Nov 17, 202585,043 vehiclesHyundai Motor America

Defect. Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2020-2023 Sonata vehicles. A damaged check valve can allow air to enter the fuel tank, causing it to expand and contact hot exhaust components, melting the tank.

Risk. A melted fuel tank can leak, increasing the risk of a fire.

Remedy. Dealers will inspect and replace the check valve. The fuel tank assembly will be inspected for damage and replaced if necessary. Additionally, dealers will inspect and update the engine control unit software. All repairs will be performed as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed beginning March 13, 2026. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 286. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on November 19, 2025.

Power Train › Automatic Transmission › Fluid/Lubricant › Pump23V526000Park outside
Filed Jul 27, 202352,109 vehiclesHyundai Motor America

Defect. Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2023-2024 Palisade Tucson, 2023 Sonata, Elantra, and Kona vehicles. The electronic controller for the Idle Stop & Go oil pump assembly may contain damaged electrical components that can cause the pump controller to overheat.

Risk. An electric oil pump assembly that overheats increases the risk of a vehicle fire.

Remedy. Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures until the recall repair is complete. Dealers will inspect and replace the electric oil pump controller, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed starting September 7, 2023. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 246.

What owners reported

Newest filings
Exterior Lighting
Filed Sep 15, 2026AL

When left turn signal is selected blinker nor camera comes on and at times it does work. Constantly in and out never steady. This never happened with the right turn signal only the left

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Aug 7, 2026VA

I own a 2023 Hyundai Sonata SEL. Over approximately three years, the vehicle experienced four separate incidents involving sudden loss of engine power and recurring fuel injector/powertrain problems. Three of these incidents occurred while the vehicle was being driven on interstate highways, creating serious safety concerns. The first incident occurred on XXX, on [XXX] [XXX]. My daughter was driving the vehicle at the time when it suddenly lost power while traveling on the interstate. She had to maneuver the vehicle to the shoulder under unsafe traffic conditions. The second incident occurred on XXX, on [XXX] near [XXX]. I was driving the vehicle when it again experienced sudden loss of power while traveling at highway speed. The third incident occurred on XXX, in [XXX]. The vehicle experienced another significant power-loss event and required roadside assistance. The fourth incident occurred on XXX, on [XXX]. The vehicle again experienced a sudden loss of engine power while I was driving on the highway. Despite multiple repair attempts, including repairs related to the fuel injectors, the same or substantially similar power-loss problem continued to recur. Because the vehicle has repeatedly lost engine power while being driven, including multiple incidents at interstate highway speeds, I believe this recurring condition presents a serious safety risk. I am reporting these incidents so NHTSA can evaluate whether this may represent a broader safety-related defect affecting thi

Fuel System, Gasoline
Filed Jul 29, 202686,500 milesGA

The contact owns a 2023 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated that while driving approximately 15-40 MPH, the vehicle was sputtering and shaking abnormally. The failure was a recurring failure. The contact associated the failure with NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V796000 (Fuel System, Gasoline); but the VIN was not under recall. The dealer was contacted; however, the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 86,500.

Power Train
Filed Jun 15, 202650 milesNY

The contact owns a 2023 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the transmission shifted into neutral(N) and failed to shift into park or drive on three occasions. The vehicle was restarted. After restarting the vehicle, the vehicle was shifted into drive, and the contact continued driving. The message that the vehicle could not be shifted into other gears was displayed. The vehicle was originally purchased in another state. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer to be diagnosed. The dealer determined that the battery and fuel injector pump needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired; however, the failure recurred. The manufacturer was not contacted regarding the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 50.

Power Train
Filed May 14, 2026TX

This is an extremely common issue plaguing Hyundai & Kia vehicles with the Theta III 2.5L Turbo engine, Such as Kia K5 GT, Hyundai Sante Fe, Hyundai Santa Cruz, & Hyundai Sonata N-Line. Its a failing ITM (integrated thermal management) unit or otherwise known as an ITMS unit. There is a rod within the ITM that prevents proper control of the flow of cooling the oil and engine coolant of the engine. Results in Cooling issues, such as a cold lower radiator hose while the engine is hot, or 'limp mode' during acceleration, that causes a sudden loss of power while trying to merge on the expressway. There has been other Kia models and years that have had TSB's related to fixing this issue, but Hyundai has released nothing. I have uploaded an example of one of the TSB's that do not apply to my car. Technical symptoms often include: Fans running 100% full duty (high) while the lower radiator hose stays cool. Or Fuel dilution or a 'rich' running engine. Because the engine is overcooling that keeps the car's fueling rich and in a open loop mode affecting emissions and contaminating oil. Personal Details of exactly what happened when i noticed mine was failing. I ran home on my lunch break, and while accelerating on a ramp to get up on a highway, my car started beeping and flashing "Engine Overheated" and i immediately let off the gas with preparation to pull over. The second i left off the gas, the coolant temp within 1-2 seconds went from a little over 3/4 the way up the gauge back to

Engine and Engine Cooling
Filed May 12, 202618,500 milesOH

The contact owns a 2023 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated that while his wife was driving at an undisclosed speed, the message "Engine Overheated" displayed. The contact checked the Hyundai app, but it showed no failure. The contact's wife drove to their son's residence, who inspected and discovered that there was no coolant in the engine. The contact's son added coolant to the engine. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who replaced the coolant valve, exhaust muffler assembly center, clamp assembly exhaust pipe, two gasket exhaust pipes, and added coolant. The contact related the failure to Technical Service Bulletin: 23-EM-009H (EHRS Coolant Leak Repair); however, the vehicle was not covered under the TSB. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure, and a case was filed. The failure mileage was approximately 18,500.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed May 12, 2026LA

Was driving and stopped at a stoplight. When I went to drive it started sputtering and if I wouldn’t have driven into a gas station, it would’ve given out in the middle of the road. It wouldn’t let me switch to drive or reverse , only neutral or park. It threw a code P0301, cylinder 1 misfire. Had to get it towed. Now I have to get my spark plugs and fuel injectors replaced.

Engine and Engine Cooling
Filed Apr 2, 2026AZ

See attached document for complaint.

Electrical System
Filed Mar 16, 2026FL

Battery Management System completely exhausting the 12V battery resulting in the car acting as if it has no power. When this happens, you can't unlock the door or open the trunk. On two separate occasions, I have encountered a complete loss of power in my Sonata Hybrid, preventing me from unlocking the trunk or doors upon returning from extended trips. The first incident occurred after a ten-day absence last Fall, and the most recent was on Saturday, March 14, 2025. During the latest incident, I returned from a seven-day trip and found my vehicle parked at Orlando International Airport. Upon approaching the car, I anticipated being able to unlock the trunk, load my luggage, enter the vehicle, and drive home. However, once again, the vehicle was unresponsive. Accessing the car required removing the cap from the door handle and manually inserting the key, a process that took approximately ten minutes, which was particularly inconvenient and concerning in an airport parking lot. This situation was even more challenging considering I am a [XXX] woman of smaller stature attempting to resolve this issue alone at night. I believe this poses a serious safety concern for all owners under similar circumstances. Following the incident last Fall, I brought my Sonata Hybrid to Key Hyundai in Jacksonville. I was informed that this is a known issue for which there is a recall; however, my vehicle model year is not included in the affected range. It was suggested that I would need to manage

Forward Collision Avoidance › Automatic Emergency BrakingCrash
Filed Mar 13, 2026AZ

Reported this previously, but more information was gathered, thanks to collision mechanic who guessed immediately when he heard 2023 hybrid Sonata - he said "they're notorious for it." Was at a stand still in a parking space/lot I know well. Cautious driver, watch my speed, very aware of other drivers, quick reaction time. Incident mid day, no pedestrians, distractions, no moving traffic. Vehicle doors shut, seat belt on. Not on incline. Pulled into parking spot I use weekly, spot has parking curb. Was at a full stop. Realized I had not pulled into the spot quite far enough, and attempted to inch vehicle forward. (Do not recall any warning lights, but this car usually alerts at literally anything - even shadows.) Very lightly applied gas to inch forward, slowly. Felt slight "scrape" of undercarriage on the parking curb. Put car in reverse, lightly applied gas to inch back. Car did not rev, no screeching tires, it was at a standstill previously. Was in Eco mode. All seemed normal, until vehicle suddenly launched UP the parking curb, full force, and into a building pillar directly ahead. The car never moves with that much force, I'm not a pedal-to-the metal driver. Eco mode on. No airbag deployment, injuries, etc. Sheriff took report for the building, simple incident. I couldn't make sense of it. I know how overly cautious I am while parking, what I do, and don't do. Took responsibility, but was still analyzing a week later, and explained what I remembered to the mechanic. He g

EngineCrash
Filed Mar 4, 2026NJ

Recall 286 my vehicle suffered from this causing heat module failure misfire in cylinder 2 and high pressure in gas tank. Sports Hyundai had previously done a 180 day repair under recall 9b1 for an expanded gas tank after the repair the car suffered from the updated recall 286 . I brang to the dealership 4 times with check engine and misfires and limp mode between 57k and 68k they refused to fix the car under recall 286 and cleared all the codes and continued to make me leave in a unsafe car. On February 14th it sport Hyundais negligence was the direct cause of an auto accident were the car was unable to move out the way because of lack of power /limp mode. I begged them in the final days of me having the car to fix it and saying I didn’t feel safe and they wouldn’t without an extensive amount of money I could not provide . I’m currently filing a claim with Hyundai consumer affairs and the dca in Newark and also my senators office and I have a lawyer also who might help I wish to report this to the NHTSA.

Engine
Filed Mar 3, 2026TX

Vehicle WITHOUT WARNING will start to jerk then go into “limp” mode. Pressing on gas pedal makes the revving noise but with not physical movement made. This has happened on MULTIPLE occasions (13 times in 4 months) including in the snow and on the interstate while driving at 70mph where no shoulder is available to pull over. Car was taken to dealership 3 different times with no actual diagnosis, tests were ran all 3 times with nothing. Eventually the 3rd time at the dealership I was told the transmission was being replaced although they were not sure what actually caused the issue (this is written in the service report by the rep/mechanic). CAR REMAINS UNSAFE AND UNRELIABLE. Livelihood of myself, family and other drivers is at risk EVERYTIME I put the car in drive due to this mechanical issue. NO WARNINGS NO POWER NO FIX.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Feb 28, 2026FL

I am filing this complaint regarding Recall 25V-796 (Hyundai Recall 286). On November 27th, while driving, my vehicle made a loud popping noise twice and then began sounding muffled. About a week later, while on a long-distance drive, I attempted to refuel and the gas would not go into the tank. At another gas station I was able to fuel it, but afterward the vehicle began rapidly leaking fuel while I was driving. The fuel gauge was also malfunctioning. It showed 53 miles remaining and then suddenly jumped to 200 miles. It was not accurately reflecting the fuel level. When I stopped again for gas, the same muffled noise occurred and the fuel level rapidly dropped again. Due to safety concerns, I took the vehicle directly to the dealership.I dropped the vehicle off on December 6th and it has remained at the dealership ever since. The vehicle is currently sitting in their lot with no remedy available. I am still making monthly payments on a vehicle I cannot use. Although Hyundai provided a rental vehicle, it has now been over three months of inconvenience, including having to exchange rental vehicles for service. This has caused disruption to my daily life and financial strain. Hyundai has offered to pay off my loan and provide 8% toward the purchase of another vehicle. However, I am a single mother who is currently rebuilding financially after losing my job in prior years, and my credit score has been affected. I do not believe I should be pressured into purchasing another vehi

Fuel System, Gasoline
Filed Feb 25, 202656,000 milesFL

The contact owns a 2023 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated that after depressing the START/STOP button, the vehicle failed to start immediately. Additionally, there was smoke coming from the exhaust pipe. There was no warning light illuminated; however, an undisclosed message was displayed. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, who replaced the fuel injector; however, the failure persisted. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V796000 (Fuel System, Gasoline); however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 56,000.

Power TrainCrash
Filed Feb 19, 2026AZ

Car was parked, full stop, doors shut, seatbelt on. Foot on brake. Car then seemed to lurch forward by itself forward hitting parking cement block. Put in reverse to back away and car stayed still...then I tapped the gas again to back up and insted vehicle plowed forward.instead.of reverse ...went over the parking block and hit concrete beam in front, when the car should have backed up in reverse. I'm a person who drives speeed limits, and ulta careful when i drive, and parked at this place/spot for years. This has never happened not sure why it did. No injuries or other people involved thank god, but scared the heck out of me. Wracking my brain, my recalls and software and service appts are up ro date.Nothing out of ordinary that day. I'm confused and shaken, why the first lurch forward and why did going in reverse move it forward? ugh. It drove home fine. Commute to work daily for years, no issues. All I can guess is gear didn't click to reverse and was somehow in drive? Ive been going over the possibilities in my head for human error but they dont make sense - again I've been driving for 40 years. If it happens to other models, would love to know! Car will go to repair tomorrow as "my fault" via insurance, hoping they can see more if any error codes, to at least say if Reverse didn't engage or something else happened. May have been human error but it's so out of the ordinary for me. Thanks!

Engine
Filed Feb 16, 2026VA

My Hyundai Sonata 2023 is experiencing two recall codes. The first one was 9b1 which was resolved, but the other one is indefinite which is 286. I dropped my car off on December 4 of 2025 and a month later Hyundai’s corporate team reached out to discuss the state of my car. They asked me for things such as the payoff balance of what I owe through CarMax who I’m financing the car from, they asked me the mileage on the car, the registration and the lien. They then told me they would provide me with an update by certain dates it’s been over two months and I haven’t received any updates. The car shop called me to come pick up my car because one of the issues was resolved, but after reviewing the recall code 286 and seeing that there is very much so a safety risk when driving the car, I ultimately chose to leave the car with Hyundai. Hyundai has been unsuccessful with providing me with the solution. I’ve waited two months almost 3 months and I believe that this vehicle is a lemon and I need a solution. Hyundai took back the loaner, I have nothing now and they keep telling me they’re going to follow up, but have not followed up with anything I need help. I don’t want to risk my life, driving the car and being paranoid that it could catch on fire and harm me or other people driving in it please help.

Steering
Filed Feb 11, 2026WA

1. All safety features related to the back up camera, EPS, Traction Control, Lane Assist, Active Cruise Control, Automatic High Beam, Forward Collision Avoidance and more. 2. Loss of all safety features and then sudden restoration of EPS would cause swerve into oncoming lanes or into neighboring lanes and/or ditches. 3. Yes the problem has been reproduced, repeatedly in cold weather and while the dealership has had it in for repairs. 4. No, but the dealership has contacted the manufacturer for repair advice. 5. Yes, every time. I have photos of my dash with the indicating lights on. 10/2/23.

Power Train
Filed Feb 7, 2026NY

At least 8 times when driving the car the transmission switches from the drive “d” position to the park “p” position and I have to cut off the car and then restart. It is very dangerous as I can be rear ended which can result in personal injury as well as an insurance claim. I’ll put the last date it occurred but started experiencing soon after I bought car.

Fuel System, Gasoline
Filed Jan 21, 2026VA

The contact owns a 2023 Hyundai Sonata. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V796000 (Fuel System, Gasoline); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was not contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue and informed the contact that parts were still not yet available. The manufacturer referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline to report the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure.

Fuel System, Gasoline
Filed Jan 13, 202628,000 milesFL

The contact owns a 2023 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer several times, and the dealer reset the check engine warning light. In addition, the vehicle remained with the dealer for 32 days but was not repaired. The vehicle was not repaired, and the failure reoccurred. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V796000 (Fuel System, Gasoline); however, the parts were not available for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The contact was informed that parts were not yet available. The failure mileage was approximately 28,000.

20 of 86 complaints, reproduced as filed.

Across model years

Worst on record: 2011
YearComplaintsRecallsFiresDeathsAssessment
20263100Routine
202516000Routine
202446100Routine
2023 — this page86200Routine
202292300Routine
2021131400Routine
2020178410Routine
2019161060Routine
20183721131Fatalities reported
20177633111Fatalities reported
20167256281Fatalities reported
20151,1449482Do not drive
20147457400High concern
20131,9099971Fatalities reported
20121,5568951Fatalities reported
20113,376141123Fatalities reported
2010345232Fatalities reported
20094602110Above average
20084255110Above average
2007696760Above average
20061,0471191Fatalities reported
2005165120Routine
2004202120Above average
2003199620Routine
2002319740Above average
2001205300Above average
2000276490Above average
1999124430Routine
199849100Routine
199749211Fatalities reported
199623101Fatalities reported
199566210Routine
19943100Routine
199326100Routine
199222100Routine
199129160Routine
199016300Routine

Compare every Sonata 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: Nov 17, 2025. Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation.