2003 HYUNDAI SONATA

6 recalls, 249 complaints - 94 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

Complaint Statistics

249 total complaints 28 crashes 2 fires 60 injuries

Top Reported Components

Component	Complaints
AIR BAGS	34
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM	18
STRUCTURE:BODY:DOOR	13
SUSPENSION	12
STRUCTURE	9
STRUCTURE:BODY	8
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE	8
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES	8
STEERING	8
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL	8

Incident date: Mar 18, 2026

The contact owns a 2003 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated that while the vehicle was at Valvoline for a service appointment, the contact was made aware of NHTSA Campaign Number: 09V124000 (Suspension). The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who informed the contact that the subframe assembly and addi... Read more

Incident date: Mar 18, 2026

Incident date: Jan 1, 2024

Engine started smoking, burning smell, exhaust smoking, stopped working, won't drive anymore, won't start , if do get it started it idles high then crashes. No warning lights. Coolant isn't leaking but it's using all reserve coolant. No longer drivable.

Incident date: May 23, 2025

The car sometimes brakes on its own, and sometimes it brakes more or less than normal. Also, sometimes when I try to turn it on, it struggles to do so.

Incident date: Apr 15, 2024

The car started making noises. There were no warning lights and we drove to the Hyundai dealership in South Charleston, WV, where we were told it needs a new engine. The car is under warranty and Hyundai has denied the claim. Luckily we made it to the dealership before the car stopped. We had no in... Read more

Incident date: Nov 20, 2022

The contact owns a 2015 Porsche Panamera S E-Hybrid. The contact stated while driving 70 MPH, the vehicle shut off with several unknown warning lights illuminated. The “Hybrid System Failure - Park Safely” message was displayed. The contact maneuvered the vehicle off to the shoulder of the highw... Read more

Incident date: Jun 22, 2021

Airbag light came on and stays on. Pulled a code that pointed to the wiring in the passenger seat. Moved wiring around and made sure connectors were properly plugged and the light went away for maybe a week. Light is back on again. Removed seat bolts to gain better access, used tubing and electrical... Read more

Incident date: Jun 22, 2021

Incident date: May 26, 2019

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 HYUNDAI SONATA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 25 MPH, WHEN THE VEHICLE LOSS MOTIVE POWER AND STALLED. THE CONTACT PUSHED THE VEHICLE TO THE SIDE OF THE ROADWAY. THE CONTACT HAD THE VEHICLE TOWED TO A CERTIFIED MECHANIC WHO DIAGNOSED THAT CRANKSHAFT P... Read more

Incident date: Mar 15, 2010

YOU CAN NOT FILL GAS TANK PASS HALF WITH OUT THE SMELL FILLING THE CAR .THE BACK SUSPENSION WHEN YOU GO OVER 40 TALES FROM SIDE TO SIDE .THE CAR WAS ON THE HIGHWAY .

Incident date: Mar 15, 2010

YOU CAN NOT FILL GAS TANK PASS HALF WITH OUT THE SMELL FILLING THE CAR .THE BACK SUSPENSION WHEN YOU GO OVER 40 TALES FROM SIDE TO SIDE .THE CAR WAS ON THE HIGHWAY .

Incident date: Mar 15, 2010

YOU CAN NOT FILL GAS TANK PASS HALF WITH OUT THE SMELL FILLING THE CAR .THE BACK SUSPENSION WHEN YOU GO OVER 40 TALES FROM SIDE TO SIDE .THE CAR WAS ON THE HIGHWAY .

Incident date: May 8, 2020

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 HYUNDAI SONATA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS BEING INSPECTED BY AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC, SHE WAS INFORMED THERE WAS CORROSION TO THE VEHICLE'S SUBFRAME. THE CONTACT WAS ALSO INFORMED THAT THE FRONT PASSENGER'S SIDE SWAY BAR LINKAGE AND BOTH FRONT WHEEL BE... Read more

Incident date: Apr 29, 2019

AIR BAG WARNING LIGHT IS ON. WHEN RESET THE LIGHT COMES ON AGAIN.

Incident date: Apr 28, 2019

AIRBAG LIGHT IS ON BUT THEY HAVE NOT DEPLOYED & NO APPARENT DAMAGE TO THE AIRBAG SYSTEM, WIRING, ETC. WILL NOT PASS INSPECTION WITH THE ABS LIGHT ON, AS YOU WELL KNOW.

Incident date: Jun 15, 2016

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 HYUNDAI SONATA. WHILE DRIVING 30 MPH, THE VEHICLE BEGAN TO VEER TO THE RIGHT WITHOUT WARNING AND THE POWER STEERING FAILED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE FRONT SUBFRAME WAS CORRODED. THE DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE VEHI... Read more

Incident date: Jun 15, 2016

Incident date: Jun 27, 2017

THE AIR BAG LIGHT IS CONSTANTLY ON, MEANING THAT IN THE EVENT OF AN ACCIDENT, THEY WILL NOT DEPLOY. INCREDIBLY DANGEROUS. THIS IS APPARENTLY DUE TO WIRING UNDERNEATH THE PASSENGER SEAT STRETCHING AND PINCHING FROM MOVING THE SEAT ITSELF AND WHEN THINGS ARE PLACED UNDERNEATH THE SEAT THAT MAY DISTURB... Read more

Incident date: Jun 27, 2017

Incident date: Mar 26, 2018

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 HYUNDAI SONATA. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 10 MPH, THERE WAS SMOKE EMITTING FROM THE FRONT OF THE VEHICLE. IN ADDITION, THERE WAS AN ABNORMAL ODOR OF FUEL INSIDE THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE THE FAILURE COULD NOT ... Read more

Fire

Incident date: Nov 23, 2017

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 HYUNDAI SONATA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE FAILED TO START WHEN ATTEMPTED TO DRIVE. THE CHECK ENGINE WARNING INDICATOR ILLUMINATED. THE FAILURE RECURRED ONCE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO POTAMKIN HYUNDAI (6200 NW 167TH ST, MIAMI LAKES, FL 33014, PHONE: (305) 728-503... Read more

Incident date: Oct 17, 2015

THE BRAKE PEDAL DROPS DURING BRAKING WITH A CLUNK. THE BRAKES ARE WEAK AT THAT POINT BUT RECOVER. I REPLACED THE BRAKE PADS AND ROTORS AND MASTER CYLINDER, STILL THE SAME PROBLEM. IT HAPPENS A LOT. MY WIFE WON'T DRIVE THE CAR ANYMORE.

Crash

Incident date: Jun 22, 2017

6-22-17 MY DAUGHTER WAS RETURN TO WORK IN HER 2003 HYUNDAI SONATA, AS SHE WAS LEAVING AN ADJACENT PARKING LOT TO WHERE SHE PARKED, THE RIGHT FRONT WHEEL POPPED LOUDLY, THE CAR LOST POWER SHE STOPPED THE VEHICLE GOING STRAIGHT AT A RELATIVE LOW SPEED. THE CAR WAS INOPERABLE SO I HAD IT TOWED TO MY HO... Read more

Incident date: Jan 2, 2017

THE PROBLEM IS THAT THE AIR BAG IS ON AND DOESN'T GO AWAY. I HAD IT CHECK AND THERE IS NO CODE FOR IT SO THEY DON'T KNOW WHAT IS CAUSE THAT. I NEED A ANSWER BECAUSE I NEED TO HAVE INSPECT AND IS NOT GOING TO PASS.

Incident date: Nov 25, 2006

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 HYUNDAI SONATA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 25 MPH AND MAKING A RIGHT TURN, THERE WAS A LOUD NOISE COMING FROM THE VEHICLE. IN ADDITION, THE VEHICLE BEGAN TO SHAKE VIOLENTLY. UPON INSPECTION, IT WAS DISCOVERED THAT THE SUB FRAME HAD FRACTURED DUE T... Read more

Incident date: Oct 20, 2016

SUBFRAME RUSTING SO MUCH THAT THE DEALER TOLD ME THAT THE CAR IS UNSAFE TO DRIVE AND WON'T LET ME TAKE IT OUT.

Incident date: Aug 10, 2016

2003 HYUNDAI SONATA AFFECTED BY PROGRESSIVE, INTERNAL CORROSION OF THE RIGHT FRONT SUB-FRAME ON THE VEHICLE, AND RESULTING IN THINNING, RUSTING OR PERFORATION OF THE SUB-FRAME STEEL. THE CORROSION/RUST IS VISIBLE AND DISCOVERED DURING INSPECTION & ROUTINE MAINTENANCE, AND ALSO HEAR NOISES & NOTI... Read more

Incident date: Aug 1, 2016

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 HYUNDAI SONATA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE BRAKE WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED AND THE VEHICLE WAS LEAKING BRAKE FLUID. THE CONTACT ALSO STATED THAT THE AIR CONDITIONER FAILED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE AIR CONDITIONER C... Read more

Incident date: Aug 1, 2016

Incident date: Apr 13, 2016

REPORT RECEIPT DATE: MAY 21, 2009 NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 09V171000 COMPONENT(S): LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES SIMILAR ISSUE IS HAPPENING IN MY 2003 HYUNDAI SONATA VEHICLE. A CHILD IN MY BACK SEAT JUST SLICED THEIR HAND WITH A 2" INCH CUT AND WE HAD 3 OTHERS SLICE THEIR HAND ON THE FRONT DOOR HANDLE ... Read more

4 injured

Incident date: Mar 1, 2012

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 DOOR HANDLE IS USED. THE WORN CHROME PLATING ON THE UPPER EDGE OF THE H... Read more

6 injured

Incident date: Jan 20, 2016

MY VEHICLE IS AFFECTED BY THE FOLLOWING SAFETY RECALL IN WHICH THE INTERIOR DOOR HANDLES ARE PEELING AND THE TOP EDGE BECOMES SHARP - I TAPED OVER THE TOP SO I WOULDN'T CUT MY HANDS IN THE MEANTIME: NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER : 09V171000 / HYUNDAI RECALL NO. 093. I BROUGHT IT FOR SERVICE AT MOTORW... Read more

Incident date: Jan 9, 2016

TOOK CAR TO DEALER FOR OIL CHANGE, FRONT BRAKES AND CHECK ENGINE LIGHT... WAS TOLD TECH WOULDN'T TOUCH EVAP CANISTER OR PURGE VALVE BECAUSE FUEL LINES WERE TOO CORRODED IN THE VICINITY OF THE NEEDED REPAIR THAT THEY MAY FRACTURE... THIS CAR IS ONLY 12 YEARS OLD... COINCIDENTLY MY MOTHER-IN-LAW HAD A... Read more

Incident date: Nov 3, 2014

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 HYUNDAI SONATA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT GASOLINE SPILLED OUT OF THE CONTACT'S VEHICLE WHILE REFUELING. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER FOR DIAGNOSTIC TESTING. THE DEALER STATED THAT THE FUEL PUMP ASSEMBLY VALVE WOULD HAVE TO BE REPLACED. THE MANUFACTURER STATED THAT T... Read more

Incident date: Sep 20, 2015

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 HYUNDAI SONATA. WHEN THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO BE INSPECTED, THE INSPECTOR OBSERVED THAT THE SUBFRAME WAS SEVERELY CORRODED AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND STATED THAT THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN N... Read more

Incident date: May 9, 2013

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 HYUNDAI SONATA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FOUR INTERIOR DOOR CHROME HANDLES EXHIBITED EXTREMELY SHARP EDGES. THE CONTACT SUFFERED FROM A TWO INCH LACERATION TO BOTH FINGERS ON THE LEFT HAND. THE FRONT DRIVER AND PASSENGER UPPER DOOR HANDLES CAUSED THE INJURIES. THE CONT... Read more

1 injured

Incident date: May 30, 2013

AIR BAG LIGHT CAME ON

Incident date: Apr 11, 2015

03 HYUNDAI SONATA GLS (V6). DRIVING 55MPH HIT POTHOLE AND LOST STEERING. PULLED OVER, REMOVED RF WHEEL TO DISCOVER CONTROL ARM BOLTS RIPPED OUT OF THE SUBFRAME FROM RUST. HEARD ABOUT RECALL AND INVESTIGATED. CAR WAS INSPECTED FOR RECALL IN 2010 PASSED THEN AT DEALER IN MARLTON, NJ. WAITING FOR CALL ... Read more

Incident date: Apr 11, 2015

Incident date: Oct 15, 2014

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 HYUNDAI SONATA. AFTER STARTING THE VEHICLE, THE AIR BAG WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE FAILURE OCCURRED SEVERAL TIMES. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 14,000.

Incident date: Feb 19, 2015

WE WERE INVOLVED IN AN ACCIDENT AND NONE OF THE AIRBAGS PROPERLY DEPLOYED IT ONLY FELL OUT OF THE SEAT ON THE PASSENGER SIDE OF THE CAR AND IT DEPLOYED FLAT NO AIR IN IT OR NOTHING. MY FIANCEE WAS INJURED AS WELL AS MYSELF AND WE ARE CURRENTLY BEING TREATED FOR INJURIES SUSTAINED BY THE ACCIDENT... ... Read more

Crash 2 injured

Incident date: Feb 3, 2014

HYUNDAI HAS A RECALL, #73999, EFFECTIVE 4/9/2004, FOR DEFECTIVE DOOR HANDLES WHERE THE COVERING PEELS/SPLINTERS OFF LEAVING THE OCCUPANTS SUBJECT TO POSSIBLE LACERATIONS. THIS IS EXACTLY WHAT IS OCCURRING ALTHOUGH WE WERE UNAWARE OF THE RECALL UNTIL RECENTLY.THE HYUNDAI SUPPORT LINE 1-800-633-5151 ... Read more

Incident date: Nov 10, 2014

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 HYUNDAI SONATA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT 50 MPH, THE VEHICLE VEERED TO THE LEFT AND RIGHT INDEPENDENTLY. THE FAILURE OCCURRED INTERMITTENTLY. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC, WHO DIAGNOSED THAT THE SUBFRAME NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHI... Read more

Incident date: Dec 1, 2014

TWO DAYS AFTER MY GRANDMOTHER PURCHASED A 2003 HYUNDAI SONATA, SHE WAS INVOLVED IN A MINOR ACCIDENT. THE CAR WAS TRAVELING AT 45 MPH WHEN IT REAR ENDED ANOTHER VEHICLE. THE AIRBAG NEVER DEPLOYED AND AS A RESULT, SHE BROKE HER BREAST BONE AND AS OF TODAY, IS STILL HOSPITALIZED FROM THE ACCIDENT. *T... Read more

Crash 2 injured

Incident date: Dec 18, 2014

NO ACCIDENT, DEALER SAYS RECALL#09V124000 IS ONLY APPLICABLE TO ORIGINAL OWNER AND THEY WILL NOT FIX IT,,,SOUNDS WRONG ?????? *TR

Incident date: Dec 18, 2014

NO ACCIDENT, DEALER SAYS RECALL#09V124000 IS ONLY APPLICABLE TO ORIGINAL OWNER AND THEY WILL NOT FIX IT,,,SOUNDS WRONG ?????? *TR

Incident date: Nov 22, 2014

IN 2005, I PURCHASED A 2003 HYUNDAI SONATA. AFTER PURCHASING MY CAR, I FOUND OUT THAT IT HAD A RECALL ON THE FUEL VALVE THAT THE COMPANY HAD TO RE-INSTALL. THIS RECALL INFORMATION WAS NOT ON MY CARFAX REPORT. LATER, THE MANUFACTURER HAD A RECALL ON INTERIOR DOOR HANDLES THAT PEELED AND CUT HANDS. TH... Read more

Incident date: Nov 22, 2014

Showing 50 of 249 complaints.

EPA Fuel Economy, 2003 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	28.0	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)	17.0	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, 2003 HYUNDAI SONATA

94 manufacturer communications from 69 unique bulletins. TSBs describe known problems and recommended fixes from the manufacturer.

Most Affected Components

Component	Bulletins
061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE	12
100000 POWER TRAIN	8
357100 EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER	7
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM	7
103000 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION	6
350000 EQUIPMENT	6
060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING	5
356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY	5

130000 VISIBILITY/WIPER (PWS)

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

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

350000 EQUIPMENT

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

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

030000 BRAKES (PWS)

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

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.

350000 EQUIPMENT

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

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

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.

200000 WHEELS

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

190000 TIRES

356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY

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

120000 EXTERIOR LIGHTING

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.

350000 EQUIPMENT

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.

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

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:

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:

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:

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

357100 EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER

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

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

100000 POWER TRAIN

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

100000 POWER TRAIN

357100 EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER

100000 POWER TRAIN

357100 EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER

100000 POWER TRAIN

103000 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION

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

106000 POWER TRAIN:AXLE ASSEMBLY

"THE PCM OR TCM CONTAINS LOGIC TO ADJUST SOLENOID DUTY AND LINE PRESSURE AS NEEDED TO COMPENSATE FOR NORMAL CLUTCH WEAR OVER THE LIFE OF THE TRANSAXLE. THIS BULLETIN PROVIDES THE PROCEDURES NECESSARY TO RESET (ERASE) AND RELEARN THE PCM/TCM

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

046000 SERVICE BRAKES, AIR:ANTILOCK

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

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

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

061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE

103000 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION

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

061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE

106000 POWER TRAIN:AXLE ASSEMBLY

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

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

EXHAUST GAS RECIRCULATION (EGR) SYSTEM DIAGNOSIS. *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

061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE

2003-2004 SONATA 2.4L/2.7L TCM REPROGRAMMING INSTRUCTIONS FOR DRIVELINE BUMP BETWEEN 2-10 MPH. *SC

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

100000 POWER TRAIN

2-3 SHIFT FLARE IMPROVEMENT TCM REPROGRAMMING INSTRUCTIONS. *NM

061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE

ECM REPROGRAMMING FOR INTERMITTENT HESITATION. *TT

061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE

DRIVABILITY CONDITIONS. *TT

357100 EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER

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

136000 VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD WIPER/WASHER

WINDSHIELD WIPER ARM MOUNTING NUT TIGHTENING TORQUE SPECIFICATION. *TT

357100 EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER

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

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

061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE

CHECK ENGINE LIGHT ILLUMINATION WITH DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODE (DTC) P0133/P0153. ENGINE CONTROL MODULE (ECM) REPROGRAMMING. *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

180000 VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

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

357100 EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER

AIR CONDITIONING RECEIVER DRIER REPLACEMENT. ALSO INCLUDING THE 2004 XG350. *TT

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

357100 EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER

AIR CONDITIONING RECEIVER DRIER REPLACEMENT (SERVICE CAMPAIGN T10). VARIOUS MODELS INCLUDING 2004 XG350. *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

071100 FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY

FUEL TEMPERATURE SENSOR. *TT

061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE

ENGINE CONTROL MODULE (ECM) CHANGE. *TT

100000 POWER TRAIN

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

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

SEAT BELT WARNING LAMP CIRCUIT ELECTRICAL TROUBLESHOOTING MANUAL (ETM) CORRECTION. *TT

061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE

ENGINE CONTROL MODULE (ECM) INFORMATION. *TT

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

CHANGE OF BATTERY UPPER COVER. *TT

980000 UNKNOWN OR OTHER

2003 SHOP MANUALS AND ETMS ON WEBTECH. *TT

103000 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION

THIRD GEAR FAIL-SAFE INFORMATION. *TT

061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE

2.7L V6 ENGINE OXYGEN SENSOR CHANGE. *TT

061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE

2.7L V6 ENGINE OXYGEN SENSOR CHANGE. *TT

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

2.7L V6 ENGINE OXYGEN SENSOR CHANGE. *TT

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

POWER DOOR LOCK ACTUATOR CIRCUIT ETM/SHOP MANUAL CORRECTION. *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

2.7L V6 ENGINE OXYGEN SENSOR CHANGE FOR VARIOUS MODELS INCLUDING THE 2004 TIBURON. *TT

121000 EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS

VERY BRIEF, SLIGHT HEADLAMP DIMMING CONDITION. *TT

353000 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL

REVISED SCHEMATIC FOR CIGARETTE LIGHTER AND POWER OUTLET. *TT

103000 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION

AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLE DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODE P1723. *SLC

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 (current)	6	249
2002	7	407	View
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

2003 HYUNDAI SONATA

Complaint Statistics

Top Reported Components

EPA Fuel Economy, 2003 HYUNDAI SONATA

Technical Service Bulletins, 2003 HYUNDAI SONATA

Most Affected Components

NHTSA Safety Investigations, HYUNDAI SONATA

HYUNDAI SONATA - All Years Overview

HYUNDAI SONATA - Year by Year

Other HYUNDAI Models