2002 HYUNDAI SONATA

7 recalls, 407 complaints - 105 TSBs

LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:DOORS:LATCH

Defect Description

HYUNDAI IS RECALLING 82 MODEL YEAR 2002-2003 SONATA VEHICLES. REPEATED USE OF THE INTERIOR DOOR HANDLE MAY CAUSE WEAR OF THE CHROME PLATING. IF THE TOP EDGE OF THE HANDLE HAS VERY THIN CHROME PLATING THAT PORTION OF THE PLATING MAY WEAR AWAY MORE EASILY THAN MORE THICKLY PLATED AREAS AS THE DOOR HA... Read more

Consequence

A SHARP EDGE COULD LACERATE OR OTHERWISE INJURE A VEHICLE OCCUPANT.

Remedy

DEALERS WILL REPAIR THE CHROME PLATED INTERIOR DOOR HANDLE FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON SEPTEMBER 16, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT HYUNDAI OF PUERTO RICO AT 1-787-999-3333.

82 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: HYUNDAI CARIBBEAN-PUERTO RICO

LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:DOORS:LATCH

Defect Description

HYUNDAI IS RECALLING 91,350 MY 2002-2003 HYUNDAI SONATA VEHICLES. REPEATED USE OF THE INTERIOR DOOR HANDLE MAY CAUSE WEAR OF THE CHROME PLATE. IF THE TOP EDGE OF THE HANDLE HAS VERY THIN CHROME PLATING, THAT PORTION OF THE PLATING MAY WEAR AWAY MORE EASILY THAN MORE THICKLY PLATED AREAS AS THE DOO... Read more

Consequence

THIS MAY INFLICT LACERATION INJURIES TO ANYONE USING THE DOOR HANDLE.

Remedy

DEALERS WILL REPAIR THE CHROME PLATED INTERIOR DOOR HANDLE FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN DURING JUNE 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT HYUNDAI CUSTOMER ASSISTANCE CENTER AT 1-800-633-5151.

91,350 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: Hyundai Motor Company

SUSPENSION

Defect Description

HYUNDAI IS RECALLING 188,282 MY 2001-2004 SONATA AND MY 2001-2004 XG300 AND XG350 VEHICLES ORIGINALLY SOLD IN OR CURRENTLY REGISTERED IN THE STATES OF CONNECTICUT, DELAWARE, ILLINOIS, INDIANA, IOWA, MAINE, MARYLAND, MASSACHUSETTS, MICHIGAN, MINNESOTA, MISSOURI, NEW HAMPSHIRE, NEW JERSEY, NEW YORK, O... Read more

Consequence

IF THAT HAPPENS, THE VEHICLE MAY LOSE DRIVE POWER TO THE WHEELS, AND THE FRONT WHEEL MAY MAKE CONTACT WITH THE FENDER OR WHEEL WELL, THEREBY INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.

Remedy

DEALERS WILL MEASURE THE THICKNESS OF THE FRONT SUB-FRAME AND INSPECT THE FRONT SUB-FRAME FOR CORROSION DAMAGE AND, IF NECESSARY, THE FRONT SUB-FRAME WILL BE REPLACED WITH A NEW SUB-FRAME THAT INCORPORATES ADDITIONAL HOLES IN THE UPPER AND LOWER PANELS. IF THE FRONT SUB-FRAME DOES NOT REQUIRE REPLA... Read more

188,282 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: Hyundai Motor Company

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE

Defect Description

CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES FAIL TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 301, "FUEL SYSTEM INTEGRITY" A VALVE ON THE FUEL TANK ASSEMBLY MAY NOT CLOSE PROPERLY. IF A VEHICLE ROLLS OVER AND THE FUEL TANK ASSEMBLY VALVE IS NOT PROPERLY CLOSED, FUEL SPILLAGE MAY OCC... Read more

Consequence

FUEL SPILLAGE IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE MAY RESULT IN A FIRE.

Remedy

DEALERS WILL INSTALL AN ADDITIONAL FUEL TANK ASSEMBLY VALVE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON OCTOBER 5, 2004. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT HYUNDAI DE PUERTO RICO AT 1-800-981-0188.

919 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: HYUNDAI CARIBBEAN-PUERTO RICO

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY

Defect Description

SOME PASSENGER VEHICLES CONTAIN A FUEL TANK ASSEMBLY VALVE THAT MAY NOT CLOSE PROPERLY. IF A VEHICLE WITH A FUEL TANK ASSEMBLY VALVE THAT IS NOT PROPERLY CLOSED WERE TO ROLL OVER, FUEL SPILLAGE MAY OCCUR.

Consequence

FUEL SPILLAGE IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE MAY RESULT IN A FIRE.

Remedy

DEALERS WILL INSTALL AN ADDITIONAL FUEL TANK ASSEMBLY VALVE. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN ON JUNE 30, 2004. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT HYUNDAI AT 1-800-633-5151.

263,968 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: HYUNDAI MOTOR COMPANY

TIRES:TEMPORARY/EMERGENCY SPARE TIRE

Defect Description

ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH A TRACTION CONTROL SYSTEM (TCS), IF THE T125/70D-15 COMPACT SPARE TIRE IS INSTALLED ON A FRONT WHEEL POSITION, THE TCS MAY INADVERTENTLY ACTIVATE BEGINNING AT SPEEDS OF 20 MPH.

Consequence

INADVERTENT ACTIVATION OF THE TCS WILL CAUSE AUTOMATIC APPLICATION OF THE BRAKE AT THE WHEEL WHERE THE COMPACT SPARE TIRE IS INSTALLED. INADVERTENT BRAKE APPLICATION COULD CAUSE OVERHEATING AND DAMAGE TO THE BRAKE, AND MAY PREVENT THE VEHICLE FROM BEING DRIVEN AT SPEEDS ABOVE 20 MPH, WHICH COULD RE... Read more

Remedy

DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE SPARE TIRE WITH A NEW LARGER DIAMETER T125/80R-15 COMPACT SPARE TIRE AND A NEW TIRE PRESSURE LABEL WILL BE INSTALLED ON THE DRIVER'S DOOR TO PROVIDE INFORMATION APPLICABLE TO THE T125/80R-15 COMPACT SPARE TIRE. VEHICLES PRODUCED FROM NOVEMBER 15, 2002 THROUGH DECEMBER 16 20... Read more

8,315 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: HYUNDAI MOTOR COMPANY

AIR BAGS:SIDE/WINDOW

Defect Description

ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, THE SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM (SRS) SIDE IMPACT AIR BAG SATELLITE SENSORS MAY BE TOO SENSITIVE TO SOME LATERAL ACCELERATIONS THAT ARE NOT CAUSED BY SIDE IMPACTS TO THE VEHICLE, SUCH AS FORCEFULLY SLAMMING A DOOR CLOSED.

Consequence

INADVERTENT DEPLOYMENT OF A SRS SIDE IMPACT AIR BAG WHEN A SIDE IMPACT CRASH HAS NOT OCCURRED COULD INCREASE THE RISK OF INJURY TO THE SEAT OCCUPANT.

Remedy

DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE SIDE IMPACT AIR BAG SATELLITE SENSORS. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN JULY 8, 2002. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT HYUNDAI AT 1-800-633-5151.

43,162 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: HYUNDAI MOTOR COMPANY

Complaint Statistics

407 total complaints 50 crashes 9 fires 65 injuries

Top Reported Components

Component	Complaints
STRUCTURE:FRAME AND MEMBERS	53
SUSPENSION	48
AIR BAGS	23
STEERING	19
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM	18
STRUCTURE:BODY	15
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE	13
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL	13
AIR BAGS:SIDE/WINDOW	12
UNKNOWN OR OTHER	10

Incident date: Mar 1, 2025

The vehicle was a service loaner provided to me but it was factory new with the sticker still on the window. The dealer told me they would still sell the vehicle as new. When I started it, I had a display screen that indicated it was in a Demo mode. Taking it out of Demo mode would have required me... Read more

Incident date: Aug 6, 2025

2019 HONDA HRV paint began to come off the car at 3 years old. Now the car is 5 years old and the area of concern is growing. The paint is pealing off down to the base of the car structure. This is a safety issue because when it begins to rust, the car parts will fall off. The area around with wi... Read more

Incident date: Aug 5, 2024

The contact owns a 2020 Ford Escape. The contact stated while the vehicle was parked, the display screen on the instrument panel intermittently went black. No warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was driven to the dealer to be diagnosed. The contact was informed that the sync system needed to ... Read more

Incident date: Sep 11, 2022

The contact owns a 2002 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle was shaking and made abnormal sounds. The vehicle then lost motive power. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic who diagnosed that the failure was related to NHTSA Campaign Number... Read more

Incident date: May 29, 2021

Made right hand turn passenger wheel cocked dead stop. When checked out was told sub frame rust apart on passenger side.

Incident date: May 29, 2021

Made right hand turn passenger wheel cocked dead stop. When checked out was told sub frame rust apart on passenger side.

Incident date: Mar 10, 2020

YOU DID A RECALL A NUMBER OF YEARS AGO ON THE CHROME ON THE INTERIOR DOOR HANDLES PEELING OFF AND BEING HAZARDOUS. NOW THE SAME THING IS HAPPENING TO THE CHROME ON THE GEAR SHIFT HANDLE. IT IS VERY SHARP AND HAS MADE MINOR CUTS TO THE RIGHT HAND WHILE SHIFTING THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS STATIONARY... Read more

Incident date: Nov 30, 2020

ON NOVEMBER 30, 2020 AFTER SHOPPING IN FOOD STORE, STARTING THE CAT AND COMING OUT OF A PARKING LOT AND DRIVING THE CAR FORWARD, I SMELL SOMETHING BURNING. STOP & OPEN THE FRONT HOOD AND SAW SMOKE COMING OUT OF THE AIR FILTER HOUSING AND STARTED TO BURN. SOMEBODY HELPED AND PUT OUT THE FIRE WITH A F... Read more

Fire

Incident date: Nov 30, 2020

Fire

Incident date: Aug 31, 2020

REAR SUBFRAME RUSTED AWAY AND TRAILING ARMS BOTH FELL OFF. WAS TRAVELING AND WHEN I WAS MAKING A LEFT TURN THE RIGHT TRAILING ARM BROKE OFF AND INSTANTLY MADE THE CAR ALMOST SWERVE OFF THE ROAD. I CONTINUED HOME A BLOCK FURTHER AND LOOKED TO SEE THE DAMAGE. RIGHT SIDE TRAILING ARM COMPLETELY DETACHE... Read more

Incident date: Mar 17, 2020

MY ROOMMATE GOT INTO A T BONE TYPE ACCIDENT SHE WAS GOING AT LEAST 25MPH AND THE AIR BAG DID NOT DEPLOY BUT IT HIT HARD ENOUGH TO RIP THE CORE SUPPORT OFF, WE HAVE PICTURES. SHE DID NOT TAKE THE AMBULANCE BUT SHE'S WILL PROBABLY GO TO THE ER LATER

Crash 1 injured

Incident date: Aug 20, 2019

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 HYUNDAI SONATA. WHILE EXITING THE FREEWAY AT APPROXIMATELY 45 MPH, THE PASSENGER SIDE AXLE FAILED AND DAMAGED THE WHEEL WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO DIAGNOSED THAT THE FRONT SUSPENSION NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT RE... Read more

Incident date: Dec 8, 2018

GAS TANK WILL NOT NORMALLY ACCEPT GAS AND CLICKS OFF EVERY 5 CENTS WORTH THAT IS PUMPED. AFTER 3 GALLONS AND 15 MINUTES LATER, THE TANK SPITS OUT THE GAS. THIS PROBLEM IS SO CHRONIC THE ATTENDANTS AT COSTCO GAS TOLD ME MANY SONATAS HAVE THIS ISSUE. RECALL OR CLASS ACTION LAWSUIT?

Incident date: Sep 17, 2018

I PURCHASED THIS 2002 HYUNDAI SONATA AND HAD IT INSPECTED IN PENNSYLVANIA, THE VEHICLE FAILS DUE TO ROTTED/RUSTED OUT FRONT SUBFRAME, THIS COMPONENT WAS SUPPOSED TO BE REPLACED UNDER RECALL NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER : 09V124000, MANUFACTURER CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 089 HOWEVER HYUNDAI SAID IT WAS INSPECTED ... Read more

Incident date: Jul 30, 2018

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 HYUNDAI SONATA. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 5 MPH, THE ENGINE FELL THROUGH THE CRADLE ASSEMBLY AND CRUSHED THE AXLE. THERE WAS NO WARNING INDICATOR ILLUMINATED. PRIOR TO THE FAILURE, THE CONTACT HEARD A LOT OF SQUEAKING WHILE DRIVING VARIOUS SPEEDS AND MAKING TURNS. THE D... Read more

Incident date: Jul 30, 2018

Incident date: Jul 6, 2018

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 HYUNDAI SONATA. WHILE MAKING A RIGHT TURN, THE CONTACT HEARD AN ABNORMAL NOISE UNDERNEATH THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE STARTED TO WOBBLE AND THEN STALLED WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE ... Read more

Incident date: Jan 1, 2005

PAINT IS FLAKING OFF OF ALL THE DOOR HANDLES ON MY 2001 SONATA GOLD COLOR. WHEN IT WAS ONLY HAPPENING ON ONE DOOR, MY DEALER SAID IT WAS NOT THERE PROBLEM. NOW THAT IT IS HAPPENING ON ALL OF THEM, IT IS OBVIOUS TO ME THAT IT IS A DEFECT. HAS ANYONE ELSE HAD THIS PROBLEM AND COULD THEY GET IT RESOLVE... Read more

Incident date: Nov 1, 2017

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 HYUNDAI SONATA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT PREMATURE RUST AND CORROSION OCCURRED ON THE FRONT SUBFRAME. THE RUST WENT THROUGH THE FRONT SUBFRAME, CAUSING IT TO FRACTURE. THE VEHICLE WAS SERVICED BY CHECKERED FLAG HYUNDAI (3033 VIRGINIA BEACH BLVD, VIRGINIA BEACH, VA 23452, (... Read more

Incident date: Nov 1, 2017

Incident date: Oct 15, 2017

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 HYUNDAI SONATA. WHILE DRIVING, THE SUN VISOR INADVERTENTLY FELL AND BLOCKED THE CONTACT'S VIEW. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE SUN VISOR FAILED TO STAY UP. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO BLAISE ALEXANDER HYUNDAI (1703 W COLLEGE AVE, STATE COLLEGE, PA 16801, (814) 234-2886) COULD N... Read more

Incident date: Aug 23, 2017

I HAVE A HYUNDAI SONATA. ITS 2002 WITH 50,000 MILES ON IT. THE FIRST TIME IT GAVE ME TROUBLE, IT WAS MAKING A GRINDING SOUND WHILE DRIVING TO WORK. THE MECHANIC CHANGED MY CALIBER ON ONE SIDE OF THE CAR AND REPLACED MY HOSES. NEXT MONTH SAME SOUND STARTED AGAIN. MY MECHANIC CHANGED THE OTHER CA... Read more

Incident date: Aug 10, 2017

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 HYUNDAI SONATA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE HEAT SHIELD FELL OFF THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO DIAGNOSED THAT THE SUBFRAME WAS SEVERELY RUSTED AND CORRODED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO ANOTHER INDEPENDENT MECHANIC W... Read more

Incident date: Jul 3, 2017

RECALL #089 FROM 2009 / FAIRFIELD SUPERIOR HYUNDAI REPORTED THAT THE OWNER HAD THIS "SUB-FRAME" CORROSION TAKEN CARE OF AND IT WAS NOT - OWNER DID NOT RECEIVE A RECALL NOTICE IN THE MAIL AT CURRENT ADDRESS SINCE 2004- OWNER (ME) WAS INFORMED BY ANOTHER CERTIFIED MECHANIC BEFORE MAJOR BRAKE WORK WAS ... Read more

Incident date: Jan 26, 2017

I HAD REPORTED MY VEHICLE STOLEN SINCE JAN OF 2017 BUT THE EL PASO, TX SAID I COULDN'T ACTUALLY REPORT IT STOLEN SINCE I KNEW WHO TOOK IT HOWEVER AFTER THAT MONTH PASSED I COULDN'T LOCATE MY VEHICLE AND I'VE CALLED EVERY WHERE IN NM WHERE IT WAS TAKEN AND NOT ONE AGENCY HAD INFORMATION IF MY VEHICLE... Read more

Incident date: Feb 7, 2017

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 HYUNDAI SONATA. WHILE DRIVING 65 MPH, THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE TIRE BUCKLED AND ENDED UP UNDER THE VEHICLE. THE UPPER CONTROL ARM RUSTED IN HALF, WHICH CAUSED THE VEHICLE TO SPIN OUT OF CONTROL. THERE WAS NO CRASH. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED, BUT WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. ... Read more

Incident date: Dec 12, 2016

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 HYUNDAI SONATA. WHILE ATTEMPTING TO DRIVE THE VEHICLE STRAIGHT, THE VEHICLE SWAYED FROM LEFT TO RIGHT WITHOUT THE DRIVER STEERING IN THOSE DIRECTIONS. THE CONTACT TOOK THE VEHICLE TO A CERTIFIED MECHANIC WHO DIAGNOSED THAT THE SUBFRAME WAS COMPLETELY CORRODED. THE VEHICLE... Read more

Incident date: Dec 9, 2016

SEVERE CRACK IN THE REAR SUBFRAME WHICH IS CORRODED AND RUSTED THROUGHOUT. THE REAR TIRE IS STICKING OUT AND THE CAR SWERVES AND IS DANGEROUS TO DRIVE.

Incident date: Sep 15, 2016

CORROSION OF THE FRONT SUB-FRAME. EA08016 FRONT SUB-FRAME CORROSION. YOU ISSUED A RECALL FOR "SALT-BELT" STATES, I LIVE IN NORTHERN VIRGINIA WITH THE SAME SALT ISSUE AS DC AND WEST VIRGINIA.

Incident date: Aug 31, 2016

SUBFRAME IS ROTTEN AND BROKEN

Incident date: Sep 1, 2016

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 HYUNDAI SONATA. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 35 MPH, THE SUBFRAME FRACTURED WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED NOR REPAIRED. THE VEHICLE WAS SERVICED PER NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 09V124000 (SUSPENSION); HOWEVER, THE REMEDY FAILED TO REPAIR THE VEHICLE. THE MANUFA... Read more

Incident date: Jul 24, 2016

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 HYUNDAI SONATA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT APPROXIMATELY 45 MPH, THE VEHICLE HIT A POT HOLE AND THE PASSENGER AIR BAG DEPLOYED INADVERTENTLY. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILU... Read more

Incident date: Jun 30, 2016

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 HYUNDAI SONATA. WHILE DRIVING 40 MPH, THE FRONT DRIVER SIDE LOWER CONTROL ARM FRACTURED AND DAMAGED THE FRONT AXLE, STRUT, FRONT FENDER, AND FRONT TIRE. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED INJURIES TO THE NECK AND LOWER BACK, BUT DID NO... Read more

1 injured

Incident date: May 25, 2016

THE VEHICLE STARTED MAKING A NOISE AND DRIVING WEIRD. IT LOOKED LIKE ONE TIRE WAS POINTED STRAIGHT AND THE OTHER TIRE TURNED SLIGHTLY. I STOPPED AT A GAS STATION TO SEE WHAT WAS WRONG AND THEY SAID THE A FRAME WAS ALMOST RUSTED INTO. I HAD ALREADY HAD THE METAL IN THE REAR OF THE CAR REPLACED FROM B... Read more

Incident date: May 25, 2016

Incident date: Apr 18, 2016

MY DOOR HANDLE HAS BECAME SHARP AND CUT MY FRIENDS FINGER. CALLED DEALERSHIP THEY SAID MY VIN NUMBER WASNT ON THE LIST FOR THE RECALL ABOUT DOOR HANDLES.

Incident date: Mar 16, 2016

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 HYUNDAI SONATA. WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS BEING SERVICED AT AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC'S WORKSHOP, IT WAS OBSERVED THAT THE FRONT LOWER CONTROL ARMS WERE PERFORATED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 09V125000 (SUSPENSION). THE MANU... Read more

Incident date: Oct 21, 2014

SERVER SUBFRAME RUST RIGHT SIDE ABOUT TO BREAK AND NOT TAKING GAS IN FUEL TANK

Incident date: Oct 21, 2014

SERVER SUBFRAME RUST RIGHT SIDE ABOUT TO BREAK AND NOT TAKING GAS IN FUEL TANK

Incident date: Dec 5, 2012

I FINANCED MY CAR IN AND AROUND 3YRS AGO, IT WAS ON 48,000 WHICH WE THOUGHT WAS SUCH A GREAT DEAL. TABS AND REG. WAS DO COMING UP IN DEC WHICH WAS AND HOW OUR NITEMARE BEGAN, WE WERE TO GO GET EMISSIONS DONE LOW AND BEHOLD IT DIDN'T FAIL BUT ALSO DID NOT PASS IT CAME BACK NOT READY, WE DROVE IT FOR ... Read more

Incident date: Jan 17, 2016

HEADLIGHT WIRE HARNESS ON DRIVERS SIDE IS MELTED. PICTURES TAKEN AND UPLOADED.

Incident date: Jan 17, 2016

HEADLIGHT WIRE HARNESS ON DRIVERS SIDE IS MELTED. PICTURES TAKEN AND UPLOADED.

Incident date: Nov 12, 2015

REAR UPPER CONTROL ARMS (PASSENGER AND DRIVER) HAD BROKEN DURING NORMAL DRIVING CONDITIONS. THE BREAK IS WHERE THE EXTENSIONS CONNECT TO THE BUSHINGS. CORROSION SEEMS TO BE THE CULPRIT BECAUSE THE METAL HAD ROTTED VERY THIN AND BECAME PERFORATED.

Incident date: Nov 17, 2015

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 HYUNDAI SONATA. WHILE SERVICING THE VEHICLE, THE CONTACT DISCOVERED THAT THE SUBFRAME OF THE VEHICLE WAS CORRODED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 120,000.

Incident date: Aug 17, 2015

BRAKE LIGHTS DOES NOT GO OFF. BEEN REPAIRED BY HYUNDIA DEALERSHIP AND STILL DOES NOT WORK.

Incident date: Oct 1, 2015

AIR BAG LITE STAYS ON, HAD NO ACCIDENTS, OR CRASHES, DEALER WANTED ME, TO SPEND A ARM AND LEG TO REPLACE THE MODULE CONTROL UNIT. I SENSED, THAT THAT MAY NOT BE THE PROBLEM, I TOOK IT TO A INDEPENDENT SHOP, AND HAD IT DIAGNOSED, WITH A SCANNER, AND THE SCANNER SHOWED A CODE BD1406 PPD. WHICH STANDS... Read more

Incident date: May 15, 2015

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 HYUNDAI SONATA. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 40 MPH, THE VEHICLE WOULD VEER IN EITHER DIRECTION INDEPENDENTLY. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER SEVERAL TIMES, BUT THE FAILURE COULD NOT BE DUPLICATED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FAILURE RECURRED AND THE VEHICLE DROIVE IN... Read more

Incident date: Jun 15, 2015

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 HYUNDAI SONATA. WHILE COMING TO A STOP, THE FRONT SUBFRAME FRACTURED FROM THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 09V124000 (SUSPENSION). THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE W... Read more

Incident date: Mar 15, 2014

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 HYUNDAI SONATA. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 33 MPH, THE CONTACT'S VEHICLE STRUCK A POTHOLE. AS A RESULT, THE CONTACT VEERED TO THE RIGHT AND CRASHED INTO ANOTHER VEHICLE. THE AIR BAGS DEPLOYED. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED A NECK INJURY THAT REQUIRED MEDICAL ATTENTION. A POLICE ... Read more

Crash 1 injured

Showing 50 of 407 complaints.

EPA Fuel Economy, 2002 HYUNDAI SONATA

Trim / Engine	City MPG	Highway MPG	Combined MPG	Fuel Type	Annual Fuel Cost
2.4L 4-cyl, Automatic 4-spd (Front-Wheel Drive)	19.0	27.0	22.0	Regular	$2,850
2.4L 4-cyl, Manual 5-spd (Front-Wheel Drive)	20.0	28.0	23.0	Regular	$2,700
2.7L 6-cyl, Automatic 4-spd (Front-Wheel Drive)	18.0	25.0	20.0	Regular	$3,100
2.7L 6-cyl, Manual 5-spd (Front-Wheel Drive)	18.0	25.0	20.0	Regular	$3,100

CO2 Emissions: -1.0 g/mile (Midsize Cars)

Source: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Actual fuel economy may vary based on driving conditions.

Technical Service Bulletins, 2002 HYUNDAI SONATA

105 manufacturer communications from 83 unique bulletins. TSBs describe known problems and recommended fixes from the manufacturer.

Most Affected Components

Component	Bulletins
061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE	10
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM	10
103000 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION	9
357100 EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER	7
100000 POWER TRAIN	7
350000 EQUIPMENT	6
060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING	5
106000 POWER TRAIN:AXLE ASSEMBLY	5

130000 VISIBILITY

This bulletin contains information about the proper removal of the windshield wiper blade protective cover on all models. If the protective cover is not removed correctly, there is a possibility of the rubber insert and rail spring becoming

130000 VISIBILITY/WIPER (PWS)

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

This bulletin provides important checkpoint guidelines when performing engine oil and filter change services.

162000 STRUCTURE:BODY

Hyundai applies a Paint Protection Film (PPF) on new vehicles before delivery to dealerships. It provides a barrier between the paint and contaminants, such as rail dust, acid rain, and industrial fallout. In rare cases, the paint can becom

130000 VISIBILITY

This bulletin provides information regarding condensation related to the accumulated moisture in the headlamp, rear combination lamp, daytime running lamp (DRL), or fog lamp. This TSB illustrates the various causes of condensation inside th

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

Follow the guidelines outlined in this bulletin to inspect and clean or replace certain components of the engine intake system accordingly during engine short block or sub-assembly replacement.

190000 TIRES

Effective June 2, 2008, Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 110 (FMVSS 110) established a threshold for correcting load carrying capacity information indicated on tire placards when vehicle weight has been increased before retail sale

100000 POWER TRAIN

Hyundai approves only the ATF, DCT gear oil and IVT gear oil specified in the vehicle??A?A?s owner??A?A?s manual. ??A?A? Use of other ATF may result in improper shift quality or other drivability conditions. ??A?A? Use of other DCT and IV

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

This bulletin provides the service procedure for engine connecting rod bearing clearance testing. Perform the procedure outlined in this bulletin to fulfill the Bearing Clearance Test inspection requirements to determine next required steps

350000 EQUIPMENT

This bulletin provides best practice recommendations when performing brake service procedures.

356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY

This bulletin provides best practice recommendations when performing brake service procedures.

030000 BRAKES (PWS)

This bulletin provides best practice recommendations when performing brake service procedures.

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

This bulletin provides the inspection procedure and repair guidelines for certain vehicles listed below.

350000 EQUIPMENT

This bulletin provides the inspection procedure and repair guidelines for certain vehicles listed below.

030000 BRAKES (PWS)

This bulletin describes the procedure to inspect and identify fluid which may appear around the brake caliper area.

190000 TIRES

This bulletin provides tire vibration service procedures, including how to optimize vehicle vibration performance. For all wheel/tire balance claims, the a??Tire Balance Data Sheeta?? must be fully completed including imbalance and Road For

200000 WHEELS

120000 EXTERIOR LIGHTING

This bulletin provides information regarding condensation related to moisture accumulation in the headlamp, rear combination lamp, daytime running lamp (DRL), or fog lamp. The TSB illustrates the various causes of condensation inside the la

350000 EQUIPMENT

356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY

190000 TIRES

This bulletin provides information on tire maintenance best practices and procedures for dealers and customers to maximize tire life and performance.

200000 WHEELS

This bulletin provides information on tire maintenance best practices and procedures for dealers and customers to maximize tire life and performance.

350000 EQUIPMENT

This bulletin describes the general guidelines to help disinfect and protect vehicle exterior/interior surfaces using recommended safe chemical products.

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

This bulletin provides information on identifying dealer stock vehicles with either: a?? A Battery SOC alert - low Battery State of Charge (SOC) at or below 50%. a?? A 30 Day alert - vehicle has not started and reported an SOC in 30 days.

350000 EQUIPMENT

100000 POWER TRAIN

The automatic transmission warranty repair policy authorizes in-dealership repairs of the following components for both OEM (new) and remanufactured automatic transmissions:

355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL

The automatic transmission warranty repair policy authorizes in-dealership repairs of the following components for both OEM (new) and remanufactured automatic transmissions:

356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY

The automatic transmission warranty repair policy authorizes in-dealership repairs of the following components for both OEM (new) and remanufactured automatic transmissions:

356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY

This bulletin describes the general guidelines to disinfect and protect vehicle interior surfaces using certain safe chemical products.

020000 SUSPENSION

This bulletin describes the requirements for all wheel alignment and/or vehicle tracking claims and best practices when diagnosing and conducting alignment-related repairs for all models and model years.

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

This bulletin provides guidelines to inspect the USB, head unit, and multi-box for common connection conditions. 2. This bulletin presents guidelines to inspect for common Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connection conditions. 3. This bullet

270000 LANE DEPARTURE

The Blind Spot Detection (BSD) or Blind-Spot Collision Warning (BCW) is a system that measures the speed of and distance from the following vehicles by using two magnetic wave radar sensors attached in the rear bumper. The BSD/BCW detects v

280000 BACK OVER PREVENTION

356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY

This bulletin provides instruction detailing the proper methodology for scanning and uploading captured GDS data files to the Techline Repository. Compliance with this bulletin ensures that the GDS data files are correctly transferred and m

100000 POWER TRAIN

This SKU is an Air Conditioning Bypass Pulley. The Customer communication requested return of unsold inventory to inspect for potential bracket cracking. Bracket cracks may cause the engine drive belt to slip or jump off the pulley causin

357100 EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER

100000 POWER TRAIN

357100 EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER

100000 POWER TRAIN

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

100000 POWER TRAIN

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

357100 EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER

103000 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION

THIS BULLETIN PROVIDES INFORMATION ON COMPONENTS, ATTRIBUTES, AND PRECAUTIONS OF THE 7-SPEED DRY-TYPE DUAL CLUTCH TRANSMISSION (DCT).

046000 SERVICE BRAKES, AIR:ANTILOCK

HYUNDAI: ALL SONATA HYBRIDS. BRAKE BLEEDING PROCEDURE. *RM

061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE

HYUNDAI: ATA SOLENOID DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODES P0740, P0741, P0742, P0743, P0746, P0748, P0750, P0755, P0760, P0765, P0770. INCORRECT OPERATION OF THE TRANSAXLE SOLENOIDS MAY RESULT IN THE FOLLOWING SYMPTOMS-CHECK ENGINE LIGHT ILLUMINATED

103100 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:CONTROL MODULE (TCM/PCM/TECM)

061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE

HYUNDAI: AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLE RANGE SWITCH DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODES P0705 (RANGE SWITCH SIGNAL PROBLEMS), P0707 (RANGE SWITCH OPEN CIRCUIT), AND P0708 (RANGE SWITCH SHORT CIRCUIT OR MULTIPLE INPUTS). AN IMPROPERLY ADJUSTED OR IMPROPERLY OP

103000 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION

063130 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:EMISSION CONTROL:GAS RECIRCULATION VALVE (EGR VALVE)

EXHAUST GAS RECIRCULATION (EGR) SYSTEM DIAGNOSIS. *KB

106000 POWER TRAIN:AXLE ASSEMBLY

AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLE DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODES (DTC) LIST. *KB

036000 SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP

ABS PUMP SELF-CHECK NOISE. *TT

103000 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION

AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLE DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODES LIST. *SC

106000 POWER TRAIN:AXLE ASSEMBLY

REPROGRAMS ARE AVAILABLE FOR AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLE DRIVEABILITY ISSUES. TECHNET TIMES. HYUNDAI. *TT

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLE DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODES LIST. *NM

036000 SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP

ABS PUMP SELF CHECK NOISE. ALSO INCLUDED: 2003-2005 MODEL XG AND 1999, 2000, 2001, 2003, 2004 AND 2005 MODEL SANTA FE. *SC

162000 STRUCTURE:BODY

WATER LEAK BETWEEN THE TAILLIGHT LENSES AND THE BODY, RESULTING IN A LEAK INTO THE TRUNK AREA. *TT

061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE

DRIVABILITY CONDITIONS. *TT

357100 EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER

FD46XG PAG OIL SPECIFICATIONS FOR AIR CONDITIONING COMPONENT REPLACEMENT. *TT

136000 VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD WIPER/WASHER

WINDSHIELD WIPER ARM MOUNTING NUT TIGHTENING TORQUE SPECIFICATION. *TT

357100 EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER

FD46XG POLY ALKYLEN GLYCOL (PAG) OIL SPECIFICATIONS FOR AIR CONDITIONING COMPONENT REPLACEMENT. *NM

103100 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:CONTROL MODULE (TCM/PCM/TECM)

TRANSMISSION CONTROL MODULE (TCM) REPROGRAMMING INSTRUCTIONS. *TT 2-3 SHIFT FLARE IMPROVEMENT.

061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE

UNSTABLE IDLE (SIMPLE DIAGNOSIS PROCEDURE FOR INTERMITTENTLY STUCK CLOSED EGR SOLENOID VALVE). *TT

030000 SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

FRONT BRAKE DISC MINIMUM THICKNESS SHOP MANUAL CORRECTION. *MR

036400 SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP:ABS WARNING LIGHT

ANTI-LOCK BRAKING SYSTEM (ABS)TCS ACTIVATION MAY RESULT FROM UNDERINFLATED COMPACT SPARE TIRE. *TT

061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE

ENGINE CONTROL MODULE (ECM) REPROGRAMMING RELATED TO 2.7L V6 ENGINE 02 SENSORS (CAMPAIGN V02) - REVISED. MAY EXPERIENCE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT ON OR DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODES P0133, P0134, P1134, P0153, P0154 AND P1154. *TT

111000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:12V/24V/48V BATTERY

BATTERY COVER INFORMATION. *TT

180000 VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

RESISTANCE VALUES FOR IDLE SPEED CONTROL ACTUATOR (ISCA). VARIOUS MODELS INCLUDING THE 2004 SONATA. *TT

061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE

OXYGEN SENSOR CHANGE FOR THE 2.7L V6 (DELTA) ENGINE. *TT

061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE

2.7 V6 OXYGEN SENSOR WIRE REROUTING. *SC

103000 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION

AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLE DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODE (DTC) P1723 ACCOMPANIED WITH MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP (MIL) ILLUMINATED; TRANSAXLE HELD IN 2RD GEAR FAIL-SAFE; HARSH SHIFTS INTO REVERSE OR DRIVE. *TT

061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE

ECM (ENGINE CONTROL MODULE) REPROGRAMMING FOR ENGINE HESITATION IN THE MORNING AND DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODE P0139. *TT

355100 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:LABELS

DETAILED INFORMATION TO HYUNDAI DEALERSHIP SERVICE MANAGERS ON CAMPAIGN 059 - TEMPORARY SPARE TIRE AND TIRE INFLATION PRESSURE LABEL REPLACEMENT. *TT

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODE (DTC) P0125 DIAGNOSTIC INFORMATION CORRECTION. *TT

100000 POWER TRAIN

ATA SOLENOID DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODES P0740, P0741, P0742, P0743, P0750, P0755, P0760, P0765, P0770. *TT

103000 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION

THIRD GEAR FAIL-SAFE INFORMATION. *TT

063000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM

OXYGEN SENSOR WIRE REROUTING. *TT

061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE

VEHICLES MAY EXPERIENCE ENGINE RPM FLUCTUATION - CRUISE CONTROL CABLE ADJUSTMENT PROCEDURE. *TT

106000 POWER TRAIN:AXLE ASSEMBLY

ATA SOLENOID DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODES P0740, P0743, P0750, P0755, P0760, P0765, P0770. *TT

061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE

ECM (ENGINE CONTROL MODULE) REPROGRAMMING FOR ENGINE HESITATION IN THE MORNING AND DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODE P0139. *TT

101000 POWER TRAIN:CLUTCH ASSEMBLY

IMPROVED CLUTCH RELEASE SHAFT UPPER AND LOWER BUSHING. *TT

121000 EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS

VERY BRIEF, SLIGHT HEADLAMP DIMMING CONDITION. *TT

131000 VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD

A CONDITION MAY EXIST WHERE THE FRONT DOOR GLASS DOES NOT RAISE PROPERLY OR WILL NOT STAY FULLY CLOSED AND / OR DOES NOT LOWER PROPERLY. *TT

034400 SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:DRUM

THIS BULLETIN INVOLVES INFORMATION RELATING TO A CHANGE IN THE REAR DRUM BRAKES TO REDUCE BRAKE SQUEAL/SQUEAK NOISE. *JG

021100 SUSPENSION:FRONT:STABILIZER BAR

SUBJECT REGARDING CHANGE OF FRONT STABILIZER BAR BUSHING, BRACKET AND CLAMP. *JG

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

SUBJECT REGARDING SHOP MANUAL CORRECTION FOR DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODE P0125 DIAGNOSIS. *JG

061100 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE

SUBJECT REGARDING ENGINE RPM FLUCTUATION - CRUISE CONTROL CABLE ADJUSTMENT PROCEDURE. *JG

111000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:12V/24V/48V BATTERY

SUBJECT REGARDING BATTERY AND BATTERY COVER CHANGE. *JG

106000 POWER TRAIN:AXLE ASSEMBLY

SUBJECT REGARDING AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLE HARSH AND/OR DELAYED SHIFTS. *JG

106000 POWER TRAIN:AXLE ASSEMBLY

SUBJECT REGARDING AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLE SHIFTRONIC DIAGNOSIS. *JG

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

SUBJECT REGARDING MANUAL CORRECTION FOR DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODE P0125 DIAGNOSIS. *JG

980000 UNKNOWN OR OTHER

SUBJECT REGARDING SATELLITE SENSOR REPLACEMENT. *JG

140000 AIR BAGS

SUBJECT REGARDING SIDE IMPACT AIR BAG WIRE HARNESS ROUTING. *JG

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

SUBJECT REGARDING SIDE IMPACT AIR BAG WIRE HARNESS ROUTING CAMPAIGN. *JG

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

SUBJECT REGARDING SHOP MANUAL CORRECTION FOR DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODE P1372 DIAGNOSIS. *JG

021100 SUSPENSION:FRONT:STABILIZER BAR

SUBJECT REGARDING REAR STABILIZER BAR BUSHING REPLACEMENT-NOISE REPAIR PROCEDURE. *JG

357100 EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER

INFORMATION ON FULL AUTOMATIC TEMPERATURE CONTROL DIAGNOSIS. *YH

103000 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION

CONCERNS WITH AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLE SHIFTRONIC DIAGNOSIS. *YH

103000 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION

INFORMATION REGARDING AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLE DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODES LIST. *YH

Showing 100 of 105 bulletins.

NHTSA Safety Investigations, HYUNDAI SONATA

Investigations opened by NHTSA into potential safety defects. These are separate from recalls and may or may not result in a recall.

PE, Closed , Model Year: 2011

Air bags may be disabled during crash

The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened PE18-003 on 3/16/18 to investigate incidents involving crashes, resulting in significant collision related damage, where the frontal airbags failed to deploy. ODI reviewed complaint data, available design, test, and field data on the model year (MY) 2... Read more

PE, Closed , Model Year: 2013

Front Passenger Seat Belt Anchor Failure

The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened this investigation on December 27, 2016 based on two ODI consumer complaints reporting a failure of the front passenger seat belt to remain connected to the seat belt anchor and pre-tensioner during a crash.On March 8, 2017 Hyundai Motor America (Hyun... Read more

PE, Closed , Model Year: 2016

Electronic Parking Brake

The Office of Defects Investigation opened this investigation on September 3, 2016 based on four reports alleging the rear brakes locked or applied while driving without brake pedal application. One of the reports alleged a fire in the right rear wheel area.The vehicles subject to the investigation ... are equipped with an optional Electronic Parking Brake (EPB). In this system, an electric motor applies the parking brake by moving the rear brake pads (pads) against the brake rotors (rotors) when activated by the EPB control switch. The EPB is released by the control switch or by selecting a drive gear with the transmission shifter when the ignition is on.If the EPB has not been used within 1000 kilometers (621 miles) the system is designed to perform an Automatic Adjustment Function (AAF) of the pads to check for proper clearance. This function is a pad adjustment only and is preformed with the vehicle in park with the ignition off. It does not set the parking brake or turn the brake indicator light on. Hyundai has identified an error within the EPB control logic that can cause the pads to remain in contact with the rotors at various levels of force after the AAF is completed. This condition could cause the rear brakes to drag at the next drive cycle and may generate some levels of heat and smoke. The EPB control logic error affects model year 2016 vehicles produced from the start of production through March 16, 2016.Vehicles produced from March 17, 2016 incorporate an updated EPB control logic to prevent brake pad drag. On May 11, 2016 Hyundai notified its dealer network of Service Campaign TFF to update the EPB control logic in the affected vehicle population. Dealers will reflash the EPB software to prevent brake pad drag.There are no reports of accidents or injuries as a result of this issue. The incident that alleged fire could not be confirmed as there were no repairs to the vehicle other than replacement of the rear brake rotors and pads.ODI is closing this investigation based on the manufacturer's Service Campaign of the affected vehicles and in consideration that the the effect of brake drag in this instance does not appear to present an unreasonable risk to motor vehicle safety. The ODI reports cited above can be viewed at www-odi.nhtsa/complaints under the following identification (ODI)numbers: 10820359, 10854476, 10875764, 10892736, and 10928478Read more

PE, Closed , Model Year: 2006

Seat Belt Buckle Electrical Malfunction

On July 22, 2014 the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened a preliminary evaluation to further analyze allegations of seat belt pretensioner malfunctions on model year (MY) 2006-2008 Hyundai Sonata vehicles.ODI received 131 unique reports alleging a failure within the seat belt pretensioner s... ystem, which was typically preceded by SRS light illumination.ODI requested more information from Hyundai in order to understand the nature of the failure and how the airbag deployment algorithm, the seat belt pretensioners, and/or the airbag function may be affected. In response to ODI?s information request (IR), Hyundai submitted 764 unique consumer and field reports and 19,847 warranty claims related to a failure in the front seat belt buckle assembly potentially causing a malfunction of the seat belt pretensioners.In it's response, Hyundai advised that if the resistance specifications for the seat belt buckle pretensioner circuit, located in the seat belt stalk, exceed the nominal range, a diagnostic trouble code will be set and the SRS warning indicator lamp will illuminate.The presence of this stored code will not affect the ability of the SRS Control Module (SRSCM) to detect a collision and command deployment of the pretensioners and airbags, if warranted.In fact, the wiring harness connector may be unplugged from the seat belt buckle pretensioner, and the signal to deploy the pretensioner will still be commanded and recorded.MY 2006-2008 Sonata?s utilize a dual pretensioner system by incorporating pretensioners into both the driver and front passenger seat belt retractor and the seat belt buckle assembly.The retractor pretensioner is located inside the B-pillar and winds (pretensions) the seat belt webbing back into the retractor housing during a collision, helping to remove seat belt slack and restrain the upper torso and hips.In contrast, the buckle pretensioner is located within the stalk of the seat belt assembly and acts to supplement lower limb protection.Both pretensioners are controlled by the SRSCM but utilize separate wiring and connectors.The seat belt retractor pretensioner circuitry and operation is independent of the seat belt buckle pretensioner connector and circuitry.Hyundai produced analysis indicating that increased resistance in the seat belt pretensioner which occurs in vehicle service does not result in a loss of buckle pretensioner.Hyundai further advised that in the unlikely event that a seat belt buckle pretensioner may not deploy due to increased resistance, the retractor pretensioner would still activate.Hyundai advised that the subject vehicles maintain their 5 STAR NHTSA safety rating using the retractor based pretensioner only.ODI notes that MY 2009-10 Sonatas reverted back to a single pretensioner system, and do not utilize seat belt buckle pretensioners. Hyundai advised its intention to initiate a warranty extension program to address concerns with the seat belt buckle prentensioner faults in MY 2006-2008 Hyundai Sonata vehicles.This action will extend the warranty coverage for this issue for 15 years or 250,000 miles, whichever occurs first.Given Hyundai's action and the minimal safety consequence this issue presents, further use of agency resources does not appear to be warranted.Accordingly, this investigation is closed.The closing of this investigation does not constitute a finding by NHTSA that a safety-related defect does not exist.The agency will monitor the issue and reserves the right to take further action if warranted by the circumstances. The ODI complaints cited above can be reviewed at http://www-odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/owners/SearchNHTSAID, seRead more

PE, Closed , Model Year: 2011

Steering Shaft Separation

The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) is aware of 7 complaints and field reports and 10 warranty claims on the subject vehicles that allege the intermediate steering shaft became loose or in some cases separated from the upper steering column and/or the steering gearbox, causing (or potentially ... Read more

PE, Closed , Model Year: 2002

INTERIOR DOOR HANDLE LACERATION HAZARD

THE MANUFACTURER HAS ISSUED A SAFETY RECALL NOTIFICATION AS A RESULT OF THIS INVESTIGATION.THE RECALL AFFECTS 91,202 MY 2002-2003 SUBJECT VEHICLES PRODUCED FROM JANUARY 28, 2002, THROUGH MARCH 22, 2003.THE VEHICLE RECALL POPULATION WAS DEFINED BY THE MANUFACTURER'S USE OF A NEW SUPPLIER FOR THE CHRO... Read more

PE, Closed , Model Year: 1999

FRONT SUB-FRAME CORROSION

THE OFFICE OF DEFECTS INVESTIGATION (ODI) OPENED PRELIMINARY EVALUATION, PE08-029, ON APRIL 22, 2008, BASED ON 40 CONSUMER COMPLAINTS ALLEGING FRONT SUB-FRAME CORROSION IN MODEL YEAR (MY) 1999 THROUGH 2002 HYUNDAI SONATA VEHICLES.COMPLAINTS DESCRIBE SEVERE CORROSION OF THE VEHICLE SUB-FRAME IN THE A... REA WHERE THE RIGHT-FRONT LOWER CONTROL ARM IS ATTACHED.IN SOME VEHICLES, SUB-FRAME CORROSION HAS CAUSED COMPLETE OR PARTIAL DETACHMENT OF THE CONTROL ARM, RESULTING IN WHEEL COLLAPSE OR SEPARATION. IN RESPONSE TO ODI'S INFORMATION REQUEST LETTER FOR PE08-029, HYUNDAI PROVIDED OWNER COMPLAINTS, FIELD REPORTS, AND WARRANTY CLAIM DATA FOR APPROXIMATELY 197,906 MY 1999 THROUGH 2002 SUBJECT VEHICLES SOLD OR LEASED IN THE UNITED STATES.THE BASE WARRANTY FOR THE SUBJECT VEHICLES IS 60 MONTHS OR 60,000 MILES, WHICHEVER OCCURS FIRST.ACCORDING TO HYUNDAI, PROLONGED EXPOSURE TO THE ROAD SALTS MAY RESULT IN CORROSIVE DAMAGE TO THE SUBFRAME.HYUNDAI REDESIGNED THE SUB-FRAME EARLY IN THE MY 2004 PRODUCTION (NOVEMBER 2003) TO ADDRESS PROBLEMS WITH PREMATURE CORROSION OF THE CROSSMEMBER NEAR THE RIGHT-FRONT SUSPENSION ATTACHMENT. ODI'S ANALYSIS OF BOTH COMPLAINT AND WARRANTY DATA FOR THE MY 1999 THROUGH 2002 SONATA VEHICLES SHOWS THAT THE FAILURE RATES ARE SIGNIFICANTLY HIGHER IN SALT BELT STATES, WHICH ACCOUNT FOR APPROXIMATELY 50 PERCENT OF VEHICLE SALES AND OVER 90 PERCENT OFCOMPLAINTS AND WARRANTY CLAIMS RELATED TO THE ALLEGED DEFECT (NOTE:FOR PURPOSES OF THIS INVESTIGATION THE SALT BELT INCLUDES CONNECTICUT, DELAWARE, THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA, ILLINOIS, INDIANA, IOWA, MAINE, MARYLAND, MASSACHUSETTS, MICHIGAN, MINNESOTA, MISSOURI, NEW HAMPSHIRE, NEW JERSEY, NEW YORK, OHIO, PENNSYLVANIA, RHODE ISLAND, VERMONT, WEST VIRGINIA AND WISCONSIN).ACCORDING TO HYUNDAI, THE ALLEGED DEFECT RESULTS IN A PROGRESSIVE LOSS OF STRUCTURAL INTEGRITY OF THE SUBFRAME AND THERE IS AMPLE OPPORTUNITY FOR THE PROBLEM TO BE DETECTED (BY INSPECTION, STEERING FEEL OR TIRE WEAR ANOMALIES) AND REPAIRED BEFORE IT REACHES A STATE WHERE A SAFETY RELATED INCIDENT MAY OCCUR.HYUNDAI IDENTIFIED 4 ALLEGATIONS OF VEHICLE DISABLEMENT AND 1 ALLEGATION OF A CRASH; WHERE THE LOWER CONTROL ARM BROKE FROM THE VEHICLE WHILE DRIVING AT 55 MPH AND THE DRIVER LOST CONTROL AND DROVE INTO A YARD.THERE WERE NO REPORTED INJURIES.ODI RECEIVED A SEPARATE ALLEGATION OF A CRASH, WHERE THE COMPLAINANT ALLEGED THAT WHILE DRIVING AROUND A SLIGHT CURVE AT 65 MPH ON A FREEWAY, THE VEHICLE SUB-FRAME FRACTURED AND THE DRIVER LOST CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE AND WENT OFF THE ROAD.AGAIN, NO INJURIES WERE REPORTED.APPROXIMATELY ONE-THIRD OF THE COMPLAINTS TO ODI ALLEGE THAT THE SUB-FRAME CORROSION RESULTED IN A LOSS OF CONTROL AND/OR A VEHICLE DISABLEMENT DUE TO WHEEL COLLAPSE OR SEPARATION.THIS INVESTIGATION HAS BEEN UPGRADED TO AN ENGINEERING ANALYSIS (EA08-016) COVERING MY 1999 THROUGH EARLY-2004 HYUNDAI SONATA VEHICLES IN SALT-BELT STATES AND EQUIPPED WITH THE SUBJECT SUB-FRAME DESIGN TO FURTHER ASSESS THE FREQUENCY AND SAFETY CONSEQUENCES OF THE ALLEGED DEFECT.Read more

PE, Closed , Model Year: 2002

TIRE VALVE STEM FAILURES

THE OFFICE OF DEFECTS INVESTIGATION (ODI) OPENED A PRELIMINARY EVALUATION (PE), PE05-059, BASED ON NINE CONSUMER COMPLAINTS OF TIRE VALVE STEM FAILURES.THE ALLEGED VALVE STEM FAILURES OCCURRED ONLY AFTER TIRE REPLACEMENT FROM THE ORIGINAL EQUIPMENT (OE) TIRE (MICHELIN 205/65R15 ENERGY MXV4 PLUS) TO ... Read more

DP, Closed , Model Year: 1999

IMPROPER FRONTAL AIR BAG PERFORMANCE

HYUNDAI HAS RECEIVED 49 REPORTS FROM CUSTOMERS STATING THE FRONTAL AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY IN A CRASH FOR THE SUBJECT VEHICLES.EXAMINATION OF SUPLIMENTAL INFORMATION PROVIDED TO ODI BY THE MANUFACTURER FOR THE REPORTED CASES IT APPEARED THAT THE NECESSARY AIR BAG DEPLOYMENT THRESHOLD WAS NOT MET.THE... Read more

PE, Closed , Model Year: 1989

PASS.RESTRAINT SYSTEM FAIL

There is no summary currently available

HYUNDAI SONATA - All Years Overview

Complete safety history for the HYUNDAI SONATA across all model years (1989, 2026).

141 Total Recalls

22,165 Total Complaints

10 Investigations

1,201 Reported Crashes

681 Reported Fires

27 Reported Deaths

HYUNDAI SONATA - Year by Year

Compare recalls and complaints across model years. Click any year to see full details.

Year	Recalls	Complaints
2026	1	2	View
2025	0	20	View
2024	1	71	View
2023	2	136	View
2022	3	139	View
2021	4	170	View
2020	4	258	View
2019	0	206	View
2018	1	544	View
2017	3	995	View
2016	6	992	View
2015	9	1,642	View
2014	7	1,077	View
2013	9	2,641	View
2012	8	2,272	View
2011	14	4,609	View
2010	2	415	View
2009	2	612	View
2008	5	554	View
2007	7	906	View
2006	11	1,422	View
2005	1	217	View
2004	1	288	View
2003	6	249	View
2002 (current)	7	407
2001	3	293	View
2000	4	378	View
1999	4	187	View
1998	1	68	View
1997	2	74	View
1996	1	37	View
1995	2	93	View
1994	1	7	View
1993	1	46	View
1992	1	43	View
1991	1	41	View
1990	3	25	View
1989	3	18	View
1987	0	4	View

Other HYUNDAI Models

Model	Recalls	Complaints
SANTA FE	153	9,962	View
ELANTRA	133	11,853	View
PALISADE	124	2,704	View
TUCSON	95	8,074	View
SONATA HYBRID	67	1,129	View
IONIQ 5	66	1,865	View
ACCENT	64	2,745	View
SANTA FE HYBRID	57	347	View

Vehicle Safety

Consumer Safety

Infrastructure

Public Health

2002 HYUNDAI SONATA

Complaint Statistics

Top Reported Components

EPA Fuel Economy, 2002 HYUNDAI SONATA

Technical Service Bulletins, 2002 HYUNDAI SONATA

Most Affected Components

NHTSA Safety Investigations, HYUNDAI SONATA

HYUNDAI SONATA - All Years Overview

HYUNDAI SONATA - Year by Year

Other HYUNDAI Models