2012 HYUNDAI SONATA

8 recalls, 2,272 complaints - 260 TSBs - 5/5 safety rating

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS

Defect Description

Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2011-2014 Sonata and 2013-2014 Santa Fe Sport vehicles previously repaired under recall numbers 15V-568 and 17V-226. The high pressure fuel pipe that connects to the fuel pump outlet may have been damaged, misaligned, or improperly torqued durin... Read more

Consequence

A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source can increase the risk of a fire.

Remedy

Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and replace the fuel pipe, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began March 1, 2019. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's recall number for this recall is 180.

150,730 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: Hyundai Motor America

AIR BAGS

Defect Description

Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2011-2013 Sonata and 2011-2012 Sonata Hybrid vehicles. On February 27, 2018, Hyundai Motor Company (Hyundai) notified NHTSA that they were recalling 154,753 model year 2011 Sonata vehicles. On April 18, 2018, Hyundai expanded the recall to inc... Read more

Consequence

If the frontal air bags, seat belt pretensioners, and side air bags are disabled, there is an increased risk of injury to the vehicle occupants in the event of a vehicle crash that necessitates deployment of these safety systems.

Remedy

Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will install an external wire filter kit, free of charge. The recall began October 15, 2018. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 174.

580,058 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: Hyundai Motor America

SEAT BELTS:FRONT:ANCHORAGE

Defect Description

Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2011-2014 Sonata and 2011-2015 Sonata Hybrid vehicles previously repaired under recall campaign 17V-152. The seat belt linkages for both front seat belts may detach from the seat belt anchor pretensioners.

Consequence

If the seat belt linkage detaches from the seat belt anchorage, it can not properly restrain the occupant in the event of a crash, increasing the risk of injury.

Remedy

Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will again verify the connection between the seat belt linkage and the pretensioner and additionally install a warning label to prevent future seat belt linkage detachment, free of charge. The recall began November 6, 2017. Owners may contact Hyundai custome... Read more

443,545 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: Hyundai Motor America

SEAT BELTS:FRONT:ANCHORAGE

Defect Description

Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2011-2014 Sonata and 2011-2015 Sonata Hybrid vehicles. In the affected vehicles, the seat belt linkages for both front seat belts may detach from the seat belt anchor pretensioners.

Consequence

In the event of a crash, if the seat belts detach from the anchor pretensioners, it can increase the risk of injury.

Remedy

Hyundai will notify owners and dealers will inspect the connection between the seat belt linkages and the seat belt anchor pretensioners, repairing them as necessary, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin April 7, 2017. Owner's may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyu... Read more

977,778 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: Hyundai Motor America

EXTERIOR LIGHTING:BRAKE LIGHTS:SWITCH

Defect Description

Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain model 2011-2012 Sonata vehicles. The brake pedal stopper pad can deteriorate allowing the brake light switch plunger to remain extended when the brake pedal is released.

Consequence

If the brake light switch plunger does not retract as it should when the brake pedal is not being pressed, the brake lights may stay illuminated preventing accurate communication to rearward following vehicles that the vehicle is slowing or stopping. Additionally, if the brake switch plunger is not ... Read more

Remedy

Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will replace the brake pedal stopper pad with an improved part, free of charge. The recall began on January 6, 2016. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-671-3059. Hyundai's number for this recall is 136.

304,900 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: Hyundai Motor America

ENGINE

Defect Description

Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain model year 2011-2012 Sonata vehicles manufactured December 11, 2009, to April 12, 2012 at Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Alabama and equipped with either a 2.0 liter or 2.4 liter Gasoline Direct injection engine. In the affected vehicles, metallic de... Read more

Consequence

Engine failure would result in a vehicle stall, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy

Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the vehicles and replace the engine assembly, as necessary, free of charge. Additionally, Hyundai Motor America will increase the warranty for the engine sub-assembly (short block) to 10 years/120,000 miles for both original and subsequent owners... Read more

470,000 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: Hyundai Motor America

POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION

Defect Description

Hyundai Motor Company (Hyundai) is recalling certain model year 2011-2014 Sonata vehicles manufactured December 11, 2009, through May 29, 2014. In the affected vehicles, the transmission shift cable may detach from from the shift lever pin.

Consequence

If the transmission shift cable detaches, the transmission gear selection may not match the indicated gear and the vehicle may move in an unintended or unexpected direction, increasing the risk of a crash. Furthermore, when the driver parks the vehicle, despite selecting the 'PARK' position, the tr... Read more

Remedy

Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and, as necessary, repair the connection between the shift cable and shift lever, free of charge. The recall began in September 2014. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-800-633-5151. Hyundai's number for this recall is 123.

883,000 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: Hyundai Motor Company

AIR BAGS:SIDE/WINDOW

Defect Description

Hyundai is recalling certain model year 2012-2013 Hyundai Sonata passenger cars, manufactured from January 24, 2012, through June 21, 2012. The curtain side airbags on these vehicles may inflate without deployment command due to an error during manufacturing.

Consequence

The curtain airbag may inflate without deployment command and increase the risk of injury to occupants of the vehicle. Additionally, an unexpected deployment would be a significant driver distraction and would limit the driver's visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy

Hyundai dealers will notify owners, and dealers will replace the curtain side airbags free of charge. This recall began on August 31, 2012. Owners may contact Hyundai at 1-800-633-5151.

29,767 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: Hyundai Motor Company

Complaint Statistics

2,272 total complaints 92 crashes 125 fires 67 injuries 3 deaths

Top Reported Components

Component	Complaints
ENGINE	507
STEERING	314
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM	218
AIR BAGS	153
UNKNOWN OR OTHER	130
SERVICE BRAKES	125
POWER TRAIN	115
EXTERIOR LIGHTING	107
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM	96
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL	84

Incident date: May 22, 2026

Around the end of May 2026, my vehicle stalled without warning while traveling at highway speed. The engine light and EPS warning light illuminated simultaneously. The engine cranks but will not start. The vehicle was towed to a Hyundai dealership on June 15, 2026 where the engine failure was confir... Read more

Incident date: May 19, 2026

Knock sensor needs to be replaced upon evaluation of an inspection on March 27, 2026. It failed a mission codes and upon my understanding the knock sensor one circuit range performance pink wonder single sensor is an engine failure as well as I did an ODB test myself on May 19 of 2026 for the Knox s... Read more

Incident date: May 19, 2026

Incident date: May 28, 2026

UNKNOWN Car was driving fine no warning lights and the car died. tried to stat back up and engine wiring harness on top of motor caught on fire.

Fire

Incident date: May 13, 2025

The ABS brake module failed approximately 11 months ago. John Jones Chrysler confirmed this as the problem, and ordered a new part. Dash brake light, traction control light, and ABS light are lit on dash panel. Also cruise control quit working, because of this module. The dealer refunded my money sa... Read more

Incident date: May 13, 2025

The contact owns a 2015 Ford Escape. The contact received the recall notification letter for NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V695000 (Back Over Prevention); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated while reversing, the rearview camera image was upside down and eve... Read more

Incident date: May 1, 2026

I brought this car 2022 Hyundai Sonata with 41k miles on it and only had it for 6 months. It has cut off 3x so far after putting gas in the tank. Always the same thing, oh nothing is wrong. Obviously there is and I see there is a recall on this car however my VIN isn’t coming up as a recall. This ... Read more

Incident date: May 1, 2026

All of my service lights light up on the dashboard. A few times now, my car has stopped or the gas pedal doesn’t want to work in the middle of the road when the car was already running.

Incident date: Oct 3, 2025

The warning lite for the low tire pressure comes on randomly and consistently. I've taken it in about 5 times and have been told the tire pressure is fine and it is just a built in defect. I am concerned because I can't check my tires constantly and especially when I am on the freeway. I fear for my... Read more

Incident date: Mar 21, 2026

Sunday April 19 2026, in a drive thru while stopped, the following alerts popped up with their corresponding dash lights: Check Brake System Park Brake limited service function Pre-collision assist not available Service Advance Track Brake pedal lost vacuum / pressure and became hard. Brake would ... Read more

Incident date: Mar 21, 2026

Incident date: Apr 14, 2026

The contact owns a 2021 Hyundai Elantra. The contact stated that while driving approximately 70 MPH, there was an abnormal sound coming from the vehicle. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was towed to a dealer to be diagnosed; however, the cause of the failure was not determined. The v... Read more

Incident date: Aug 14, 2024

Car sputtered and slowed on expressway, turbo failed. Recalls issued 2016 and 2017, then reissued 2020 to 2023, same turbo, 2019 was exempted

Incident date: Aug 14, 2024

Began with a misfire on cylinder 5 code P0305. Replaced spark plugs, wires, and coil pack. Misfire still existed. Fuel injector on cylinder 5 was stuck open and had to be replaced. Misfire still existed. No spark from new coil pack on cylinder 5, replaced coil pack connector. Misfire still existed, ... Read more

Incident date: Aug 14, 2024

What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? The specific component has not yet been identified. The issue involves unexplained water intrusion into the vehicle’s floor pan under normal operating conditions. The vehicle is available for inspect... Read more

Incident date: Feb 19, 2026

The contact owns a 2017 Ford Edge. The contact stated that while driving approximately 30 MPH, the brake pedal was depressed while slowing for traffic, and the brake pedal went to the floorboard. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer, where it was diagnosed,... Read more

Incident date: Mar 15, 2026

There has been no incident with my vehicle but I am writing to look into this issue. I see several threads online regarding these warning lights that just randomly pop up without any indicator of a problem with the vehicle. This stops all these assistive features from responding if there were a haza... Read more

Incident date: Mar 4, 2026

UNINTENDED VEHICLE MOVEMENT AT STARTUP - POTENTIAL CLUTCH DEFECT On January 17, 2026, at approximately 1:59 PM, I started my 2019 Genesis G70 (manual transmission) while parked in my garage. The vehicle was in Neutral with the parking brake engaged. I depressed the clutch pedal fully before press... Read more

Crash

Incident date: Mar 9, 2026

WHile trying to park 2025 Q7 the vehicle accelerated without warning and adaptive cruise flashed quickly then disappeared. I was the driver and had a passanger along. THis incedent repeated itself within 30 mins. I am not comfortable driving the car..

Incident date: Mar 9, 2026

Incident date: Mar 13, 2025

Painting chipping on front top car... Seatbelt don't fasten all the time...Lights are dim.

Incident date: Mar 13, 2025

While driving at highway speeds, with no warning, my vehicle shuts off forcing me to perform and emergency exits. In these situations, I have observed the dashboard screen directly in front of me read: Vehicle Not In ... Read more

Incident date: Mar 13, 2025

SEVERAL TIMES, I HAVE BEEN DRIVING, AND THE AUTO STOP SHUTS THE ENGINE DOWN, THEN IT WILL NOT RESTART. THIS HAS HAPPENED ON A VERY BUSY STATE ROUTE IN THE MIDDLE OF AN INTERSECTION, WHILE I HAVE MY YOUNG CHILDREN IN THE VEHICLE. THIS IS VERY CONCERNING AND A MOJOR SAFETY ISSUE FOR US.

Incident date: Jan 2, 2026

The contact owns a 2015 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that the A-pillar had detached. The camera image occasionally failed to display, or the screen was distorted or blank. The contact attempted to clean the screen, but the failure persisted. An unknown camera message was displayed. The contact ... Read more

Incident date: Jan 20, 2026

Because the front camera has malfunctioned, all electronic warnings are permanently displayed on dash upon start of car, including Engine light and Brake system warnings. Although the camera is the only only thing that has actually failed, the warning systems are no longer available to accurately d... Read more

Incident date: Feb 3, 2026

2015 Chevrolet Silverado complete engine failure. At 143,000 miles the engine failed because of the displacement on demand fuel injection system/lifters. Lifter failed without warning, destroyed the camshaft, cam bearing and crank and crank bearings. Chevrolet/GM were no help at all and took on resp... Read more

Incident date: Feb 3, 2026

I was driving and the reduced engine power came on. I almost crashed because I couldn't control the steering

Incident date: Feb 1, 2025

On 01/21/2026 there was a warning light that came on stating accelerator control sensor, the next morning the truck started stalling, and continued stalling multiple times. I attempted to get the vehicle to the service center. It then stalled 2 more times, the service center told me they couldn’t ... Read more

Incident date: Jan 1, 2026

Back Window shattered while sitting in parking lot while I was at work.

Incident date: Jan 1, 2026

It was cold out and my sister was driving my car with the heated seats on when she started to smell fire as well as her back got really hot. She pulled over and leaned forward and discovered a flame/fire coming through the seat back. She burned my hand and had visible ash on it trying to put the f... Read more

Fire

Incident date: Dec 29, 2023

I have a faulty transmission that is now widely known. 2021 Highlander with the UA80 transmission. Out of warranty and Toyota wants to provide no help even know this is an ongoing issue with so many owners

Incident date: Nov 3, 2025

Auto high beams constantly tun on and off due to reflections from road signs. Other times when cars are coming at you, and they should turn off, they stay on blinding the oncoming drivers.

Incident date: Oct 10, 2025

I am reporting a potential safety defect related to premature rear tire wear on my 2024 Tesla Model Y Performance At 15,482 miles, on May 2, 2025, Tesla’s Paramus, NJ Service Center confirmed an alignment issue and performed a four-wheel alignment. At the same visit, they replaced both rear tires... Read more

Incident date: Oct 5, 2025

The brake accumulator went out thanksgiving day on my way home nearly causing an accident. I also missed dinner due to the issue creating a clearly unsafe driving condition where I was barely able to use my brakes. This is a known issue by Toyota, whom extended the warranty to 10 years. Of course, ... Read more

Incident date: Oct 5, 2025

In July, Chicagoland was very hot and my car stays in the garage. The piece that holds the sun roof control panel on the ceiling melted and came partially off. It’s been hanging since then since I was told it wasn’t ready to be fixed yet since there is no recall. I’ve been waiting but now my S... Read more

Incident date: Oct 5, 2025

Wiper washer system was working properly until the first snowfall today. Despite the very small amount of snow, the wiper washer system for the front windshield will not operate. The rear washer works properly. Washer reservoir is full and the wipers work properly.

Incident date: Nov 23, 2025

I own a 2025 Ford F-150 Lariat equipped with the factory Tow Package. The truck was sold to me and later serviced under the representation that the trailer brake controller was functional. Duvall Ford in Clayton, GA installed and programmed only a brake controller switch and assured me the trailer ... Read more

Incident date: Nov 23, 2025

I have been having heavy oil leaks with my vehicle and when I check my oil a few days after adding oil it registers bone dry. Excessive oil can be seen in my drive way after pulling in and out. The oil ight has been coming on intermittently and now it stays on. Took it to Kia dealership and inquired... Read more

Incident date: Nov 23, 2025

My front driver door started making a loud noise. And every time I would open and close the door I would get resistance. Until it really didn’t want to open or close anymore. It even started to affect my window. It wouldn’t roll down anymore.

Incident date: Jun 18, 2024

My vehicle is affected by Recall 25V437. I am already experiencing recall-related symptoms, including stuttering, unusual engine noises, and uneven acceleration. I leased the vehicle through DFW Auto and Services INC, On August 15, 2025, at 9:35 AM, I spoke with Sam in the finance department of DF... Read more

Incident date: Jul 25, 2025

There is a loud clicking in the steering wheel and the car is all over the place while driving. I was told by three mechanics that it is the steering coupler gear. I could lose control which would be putting others life at risk as well as myself. I was told this my be a recall. I need help. This i... Read more

Incident date: Jul 25, 2025

Backup camera is showing a distorted/flipped image while in reverse. Nor does the parking assist work. No incidents have happened, thankfully.

Incident date: Jul 25, 2025

l submitted a form regarding open investigation NHSTA Action number XXX and included my invoice from the Chrysler dealership, Lake Wales, FL regarding the 2017 Pacifica power steering. As of October 26, 2025 there is nothing showing regarding the open investigation. I also requested an email in ret... Read more

Incident date: Oct 14, 2025

i pulled on to the road and i heard a loud knocking and my vehicle started skipping and wouldn't go. the lights on the dash lit up and said, "brake failure" and "emergency brake failure" and i had no brakes. I managed to coast into a parking lot. The engine light was on. I turned the vehicle off an... Read more

Incident date: Oct 17, 2025

The electronic steering gear is malfunctioning and making a clicking sound when the steering wheel is turned at 90-degree angles in either direction. The dealership (Bud Brown VW, Olathe, KS) advised me that they have had 3 VW Atlas vehicles with the same problem over the past month. I believe thi... Read more

Incident date: Oct 17, 2025

Backup camera failure after dealer replaced entire interior main body harness

Incident date: Oct 1, 2025

In the past six months the Honda "auto-start" feature has caused my vehicle not to restart while stopped at an intersection. Honda needs to immediately recall all Gen 5 vehicles that use the auto-start feature and permanently disable (or give an option to disable) this useless, safety-affecting "fea... Read more

Incident date: Oct 1, 2025

The contact owns a 2023 Jeep Compass. The contact stated that while attempting to start the vehicle, the vehicle failed to start. The contact stated that the instrument panel was illuminated while attempting to start the vehicle. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, where the contact was informed th... Read more

Incident date: Aug 30, 2025

The alert, "Consider taking a break", produces visual and audible alarms. The audible alarm emits from the dash and has a similar sound to the seat belt not buckled alarm. There is no obvious event that causes the alert. Sometimes occurring minutes after starting the engine, other times randomly du... Read more

Showing 50 of 2,272 complaints.

NHTSA Safety Ratings, 2012 HYUNDAI SONATA

2012 Hyundai Sonata 4 DR FWD

Category	Rating
Overall Rating	5 / 5 ★★★★★
Frontal Crash	4 / 5 ★★★★☆
Frontal Crash, Driver	5 / 5 ★★★★★
Frontal Crash, Passenger	4 / 5 ★★★★☆
Side Crash	5 / 5 ★★★★★
Side Crash, Driver	5 / 5 ★★★★★
Side Crash, Passenger	5 / 5 ★★★★★
Rollover	5 / 5 ★★★★★
Rollover Risk	9.7%

Safety Technology

Feature	Status
Electronic Stability Control	Standard
Forward Collision Warning	No
Lane Departure Warning	No

Source: NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings Program. Ratings are based on crash tests conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

EPA Fuel Economy, 2012 HYUNDAI SONATA

Trim / Engine	City MPG	Highway MPG	Combined MPG	Fuel Type	Annual Fuel Cost
2.0L 4-cyl, Automatic 6-spd (Front-Wheel Drive)	22.0	33.0	26.0	Regular	$2,400
2.4L 4-cyl, Automatic 6-spd (Front-Wheel Drive)	24.0	34.0	27.0	Regular	$2,300
2.4L 4-cyl, Manual 6-spd (Front-Wheel Drive)	24.0	34.0	27.0	Regular	$2,300

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

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

Technical Service Bulletins, 2012 HYUNDAI SONATA

260 manufacturer communications from 143 unique bulletins. TSBs describe known problems and recommended fixes from the manufacturer.

Most Affected Components

Component	Bulletins
350000 EQUIPMENT	35
060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING	30
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM	29
060000 ENGINE (PWS)	23
356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY	17
118000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE	13
100000 POWER TRAIN	13
010000 STEERING	7

100000 POWER TRAIN

This TSB provides a procedure to diagnose and replace, if necessary, an automatic transmission with Incorrect Ratio DTC (transmission clutch slip in gear above limit) listed on Page 2.

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

116300 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:ANTI-THEFT:CONTROL MODULE

Hyundai has launched an anti-theft software upgrade and window decal campaign (Campaign 993), combined with an anti-theft steering wheel lock campaign (Campaign P32), and anti-theft ignition cylinder protector campaign (Campaign 9A5) in res

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

353100 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:ANTI-THEFT DEVICES

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

353100 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:ANTI-THEFT DEVICES

This bulletin provides the service procedure to: 1) Upgrade the IBU/BCM (Integrated Body Control Unit/Body Control Module) to revise the OEM Hyundai burglar alarm system operation and ignition start logic and 2) Install two anti-theft decal

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

125000 EXTERIOR LIGHTING:BRAKE LIGHTS

Some 2011-14MY Sonata (YF) vehicles may experience inoperative brake lights that may be caused by melting/deformation of the rear combination housing lamps. Hyundai is extending warranty coverage for the rear combination lamp under this con

120000 EXTERIOR LIGHTING

125000 EXTERIOR LIGHTING:BRAKE LIGHTS

Some 2011-14MY Sonata (YF) vehicles may exhibit inoperative brake lights that may be caused by melting/deformation of the rear combination housing lamps. Hyundai is extending warranty coverage for the rear combination lamp under this condi

120000 EXTERIOR LIGHTING

116300 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:ANTI-THEFT:CONTROL MODULE

Hyundai has launched an anti-theft software upgrade and window decal campaign (Campaign 993), combined with an anti-theft steering wheel lock campaign (Campaign P32), in response to an increase in thefts of certain 2011-2022MY Hyundai vehic

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

116320 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:ANTI-THEFT:IMMOBILIZER/PROXIMITY:SENSOR

Certain Hyundai vehicles may not be equipped with an immobilizer. This bulletin provides the service procedure to update the IBU/BCM (Integrated Body Control Unit/Body Control Module), to revise the OEM Hyundai burglar alarm system operati

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

116300 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:ANTI-THEFT:CONTROL MODULE

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

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

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

100000 POWER TRAIN

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Some models from service campaign 993 (IBU/BCM Software Update and Decals Application) equipped with the Hyundai OEM remote start system may exhibit the horn honking when remote starting the vehicle after receiving the software update. Thi

353100 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:ANTI-THEFT DEVICES

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

116340 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:ANTI-THEFT:IMMOBILIZER/PROXIMITY:KEY/SENDER

116320 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:ANTI-THEFT:IMMOBILIZER/PROXIMITY:SENSOR

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

116300 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:ANTI-THEFT:CONTROL MODULE

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

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

116320 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:ANTI-THEFT:IMMOBILIZER/PROXIMITY:SENSOR

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

116320 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:ANTI-THEFT:IMMOBILIZER/PROXIMITY:SENSOR

Hyundai has launched an anti-theft software upgrade and window decal campaign (Campaign 993) in response to an increase in thefts of certain Hyundai vehicles not equipped with engine immobilizers targeted through social media. In November 2

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

133000 VISIBILITY:POWER WINDOW DEVICES AND CONTROLS

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

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

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

The warranty coverage for engine long block repair or replacement regarding engine damage or malfunction from connecting rod bearing wear has been extended to 10 years or 120,000 miles from the date of original retail delivery or date of fi

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

The warranty coverage for engine long block repair or replacement regarding engine damage or malfunction from connecting rod bearing wear has been extended to a Limited Lifetime Warranty and is valid for original and subsequent owners.

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

Applicable vehicles with 2.0L T-GDI and 2.4L GDI engines may experience the Check Engine warning lamp illuminated with DTC P1326 and/or engine may exhibit Abnormal Noise or No Crank/No Start condition. Follow the procedure to inspect the ve

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

Certain vehicles with 2.0L T-GDI and 2.4L GDI engines may experience the Check Engine warning lamp illuminated with DTC P1326 and/or engine may exhibit abnormal noise or no crank/no start condition related to connecting rod bearing wear or

355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL

This bulletin provides additional service diagnostic information and repair procedures related to Electric Waste Gate Actuator (EWGA) equipped vehicles listed below. Refer to the applicable Engine Control / Fuel System sections in the Shop

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

350000 EQUIPMENT

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

350000 EQUIPMENT

The warranty coverage for certain Theta II engine long block repair or replacement regarding engine damage or malfunction from connecting rod bearing wear has been extended to a Limited Lifetime Warranty and is valid for original and subseq

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

Hyundai has launched a Service Campaign for applicable vehicles with 2.0L Turbo and 2.4L GDI engines that may experience the Check Engine warning lamp illuminated with DTC P1326.

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

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.

356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY

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

350000 EQUIPMENT

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.

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

The warranty coverage for the engine long block for engine repairs or replacement related to connecting rod bearing damage as described in Campaign T3G (Seized and/or BCT No Pass Result Only) has been extended to 10 years or 120,000 miles f

118000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE

Applicable vehicles with 2.0L Turbo and 2.4L GDI engines may experience the Check Engine warning lamp illuminated with DTC P1326. Follow the procedure to inspect the vehicle and replace the engine or update the engine ECU software based on

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

061120 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE:TURBO/SUPERCHARGER

350000 EQUIPMENT

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

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

061610 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:ENGINE CONTROL MODULE (ECU/ECM):SOFTWARE

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

118000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE

350000 EQUIPMENT

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

The warranty coverage for the engine long block has been extended to 10 years or 120,000 miles from the date of original retail delivery or date of first use, whichever occurs first, and is valid for original and subsequent owners.

350000 EQUIPMENT

This bulletin provides information regarding replacement of the column-mounted Motor Driven Power Steering (MDPS) system as separate components.

010000 STEERING

This bulletin provides information regarding replacement of the column-mounted Motor Driven Power Steering (MDPS) system as separate components.

018100 STEERING:AUTOMATED/ADAPTIVE STEERING:MOTOR/ACTUATOR

This bulletin provides information regarding replacement of the column-mounted Motor Driven Power Steering (MDPS) system as separate components.

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

This bulletin provides information regarding replacement of the column-mounted Motor Driven Power Steering (MDPS) system as separate components.

012000 STEERING:COLUMN

This bulletin provides information regarding replacement of the column-mounted Motor Driven Power Steering (MDPS) system as separate components.

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

120000 EXTERIOR LIGHTING

350000 EQUIPMENT

060000 ENGINE (PWS)

This Dealer Best Practice intends to inform dealers of a proposed settlement (a??Settlementa??) for a class action lawsuit filed against Hyundai Motor America (a??HMAa??). Beginning in July 2020, customers affected by the proposed settlemen

355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL

060000 ENGINE (PWS)

Applicable vehicles with 2.0L Turbo and 2.4L GDI engines may experience the Check Engine warning lamp illuminated with DTC P1326. Follow the procedures on TSB #20-01-004H-1 (supersedes TSB #20-01-004H) to inspect the vehicle and replace the

353000 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL

060000 ENGINE (PWS)

118000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE

060000 ENGINE (PWS)

118000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE

100000 POWER TRAIN

If you are servicing an applicable vehicle with the following symptoms and DTC, follow the Service Procedure on Page 4. i?? Check Engine light on i?? DTC P0880/P088000 - TCM Power signal error open/short i?? Transmission stuck in 4th ge

200000 WHEELS

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

190000 TIRES

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

Showing 100 of 260 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 (current)	8	2,272
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	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

2012 HYUNDAI SONATA

Complaint Statistics

Top Reported Components

NHTSA Safety Ratings, 2012 HYUNDAI SONATA

Safety Technology

EPA Fuel Economy, 2012 HYUNDAI SONATA

Technical Service Bulletins, 2012 HYUNDAI SONATA

Most Affected Components

NHTSA Safety Investigations, HYUNDAI SONATA

HYUNDAI SONATA - All Years Overview

HYUNDAI SONATA - Year by Year

Other HYUNDAI Models