2021 HYUNDAI SONATA

4 recalls, 184 complaints - 85 TSBs - 5/5 safety rating

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

Defect Description

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

Consequence

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

Remedy

Dealers will inspect and replace the check valve. The fuel tank assembly will be inspected for damage and replaced if necessary. Additionally, dealers will inspect and update the engine control unit software. All repairs will be performed as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were... Read more

85,043 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: Hyundai Motor America

POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION

Defect Description

Hyundai Motor Company (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Santa Fe, Sonata, Veloster N, 2022 Santa Cruz, Elantra N, and Kona N vehicles. The vehicle's "fail-safe" limited-mobility drive mode may be impaired, when prompted by a transmission oil pump malfunction, which can result in a complete l... Read more

Consequence

Loss of drive power increases the risk of a crash.

Remedy

Dealers will inspect and replace the transmission, as necessary. Dealers will also update the transmission control unit software. All repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 10, 2023. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. ... Read more

56,148 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: Hyundai Motor America

VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD

Defect Description

Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Santa Fe, 2021 Sonata, and Elantra vehicles. During manufacturing, the windshield may not have been properly bonded to the vehicle, allowing it to detach in a crash.

Consequence

A windshield that detaches from a vehicle during a crash can increase the risk of injury.

Remedy

Dealers will remove and reinstall the front windshield panel, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 20, 2022. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 216.

26,413 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: Hyundai Motor America

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

Defect Description

Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Santa Fe and Sonata vehicles equipped with 2.5L turbocharged engines. Fuel may leak at the pipe connection between the high-pressure fuel pump and fuel rail.

Consequence

A fuel leak increases the risk of a fire.

Remedy

Dealers will inspect and tighten, or replace the fuel pipe as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on September 3, 2021. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 207.

15,752 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: Hyundai Motor America

Complaint Statistics

184 total complaints 5 crashes 2 fires

Top Reported Components

Component	Complaints
UNKNOWN OR OTHER	35
POWER TRAIN	26
ENGINE	21
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM	15
SERVICE BRAKES	11
STEERING	10
VISIBILITY/WIPER	6
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM	6
AIR BAGS	5
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: WARNINGS	5

Incident date: Apr 15, 2026

Massive loss of coolant in closed loop cooling system Heat soak. Fail safe mode

Incident date: Apr 15, 2026

Massive loss of coolant in closed loop cooling system Heat soak. Fail safe mode

Incident date: Apr 15, 2026

Massive loss of coolant in closed loop cooling system Heat soak. Fail safe mode

Incident date: Dec 15, 2025

The contact owns a 2021 Hyundai Sonata. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V796000 (Fuel System, Gasoline); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle independently accelerated... Read more

Incident date: Aug 12, 2026

I took my vehicle in for the safety recall due to an expanding fuel tank on 08/03/2026. I received my vehicle back on 8/12/2026. Hyundai performed an improper repair on the vehicle that will not correct the fuel tank expansion. They replaced the same check valve that was replaced last time I brough... Read more

Incident date: Aug 7, 2026

"Ford Emissions Recall 24E10 addresses defective factory PCM software parameters. This software defect caused unbalanced air-fuel ratios to ruin both catalytic converters on my 2016 Ford Edge (Bank 2 at 128k miles and Bank 1 at 157,552 miles). The dealership, [XXX] of [XXX], completed the 24E10 soft... Read more

Incident date: Aug 1, 2026

The contact owns a 2018 Ram 2500. The contact stated that the vehicle experienced excessive and premature front tire tread wear. The vehicle was taken to Discount Tire, and the contact was informed that the front-end alignment mechanism was welded, which prevented an alignment from being performed, ... Read more

Incident date: Jul 28, 2026

I was driving on 96 W. in slow traffic on the freeway when the vehicle put itself in neutral and shut off

Incident date: Jul 31, 2026

2017 Kia Niro Hybrid subject to Safety Recall SC276 (NHTSA Campaign 23V534) for the Hydraulic Clutch Actuator (HCA). Fluid contamination of the HCA PCB can cause an electrical short and engine compartment fire risk. Official remedy is HCA inspection/replacement as necessary plus a new fuse. Three de... Read more

Incident date: Jul 31, 2026

Incident date: Jul 22, 2026

While the carseat is installed in forward facing position with a seat belt my 30lb [XXX] old is able to push the buttons to uninstall the car seat while car is in motion. The click tight buttons become loose when she is in the seat. We do have two Britax poplar car seats so this is not isolated to a... Read more

Incident date: Jul 27, 2026

2018 Honda Pilot Transmission Failed at Only 34,726 Miles I want to share my experience so other Honda owners are aware of a very premature transmission failure. I am the original owner of a 2018 Honda Pilot with only 34,726 miles. My family has trusted Honda for many years, and my wife also drives... Read more

Incident date: Jul 25, 2026

The contact owns a 2021 GMC Yukon. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, there was a misfire coming from the vehicle, the vehicle was shaking and vibrating abnormally before the vehicle went into LIMP Mode. The traction control light and other unknown warning lights were ill... Read more

Incident date: Jul 18, 2026

My 2020 Land Rover Defender 48V Mild Hybrid Electric Vehicle (MHEV) experienced a check engine light and hybrid electrical failure. Diagnostics by an authorized Jaguar Land Rover dealer confirmed code P0A1F-96 (Battery Energy Control Module / BECM internal component failure). This failure relates... Read more

Incident date: Jan 15, 2026

I have had error messages displayed on the dashboard that there are a Hill Descent Control Fault and Service Advance Trac. These are immediately followed by loss of throttle response and/or loss of engine power. This has been occurring since April 2025 till presently June 2026. I have all documents ... Read more

Incident date: Jun 22, 2026

I was driving in a line of cars when there was a sudden slowing of all cars ahead of my 2025 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid. Car's Forward Collision Avoidance system applied brakes too early and too hard. Car behind me almost collided with my car's rear. My 2025 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid had less than 1,300 ... Read more

Incident date: Jun 22, 2026

Incident date: Sep 3, 2022

Both battery continue to drain. The dealer has replace the batteries five times. My car has been at the dealer repeatedly. Most recent incident the vehicle has been with the dealer since April 10, 2026. As of today June 1, 2026 it still remains at the dealer. They have not been able to tell the caus... Read more

Incident date: Mar 23, 2026

When driving with or without the cruise the word BRAKE appears and the van taps it breaks automatically even when there is no reason to do so. There is no vehicle in front or anything on the road to be detected. It occasionally happens when there is a vehicle in the oncoming lane, but happens more o... Read more

Incident date: Mar 23, 2026

Incident date: Mar 24, 2026

The vehicle experienced a sudden, catastrophic brake-by-wire system failure while operating in one-pedal driving (Regeneration Boost mode). While decelerating at a low speed behind an 18-wheeler semi-truck, the vehicle failed to continue slowing down. I immediately depressed the physical brake pedal... Read more

Crash

Incident date: May 18, 2026

The steering sometimes feels stiff or sticky when driving. It will stick in a certain position driving straight and the steering wheel feels stuck and a slight jerk is needed to unstick it to maintain safe driving, and the steering wheel sticks to take a curve either right or left. I’ve researched... Read more

Incident date: May 18, 2026

loss of power steering when driving almost went into oncoming traffic, Garage says it is the rack and pinion

Incident date: Aug 10, 2024

This is the engine fuel component injection system is not available for fixing within a timly manner and I smell gasoline this is not acceptable to use as it is

Incident date: Jan 30, 2026

I went to open the trunk on my 2022 Tesla Model 3 using the normal electric trunk button above the license plate. When I clicked the button, the trunk opened a few inches, made an abnormal noise, and then came crashing shut. At this point, I opened trunk manually to see what occurred and immediately... Read more

Incident date: Jan 30, 2026

Incident date: Mar 13, 2026

My wife just picked up our 4 year old from daycare. She just merged onto I-81N and the vehicle shut off on her at highway speed during rush hour! A message on the dashboard said "Please restart vehicle". She managed to pull the Tahoe off onto the shoulder, but couldn't get it started. She remained i... Read more

Incident date: Mar 13, 2026

On April 1, 2026, my 2025 Hyundai IONIQ 5 experienced a cascading electrical failure. The vehicle first displayed a warning about a problem with the on-board charger, followed shortly by an alarm and the 'Stop Vehicle and Check Power Supply' warning with a red 12V battery indicator, rendering the ve... Read more

Incident date: Feb 19, 2026

I was driving on the freewayin the night time on several occasions and the Emissions light and check engine light comes on and the car lost speed and would not accelerate. I had to put my hazards on to exit the freeway slowly to pull over turn the car off, sometimes this corrects the problems. but t... Read more

Incident date: Feb 19, 2026

Transmission won't go into reverse at times, auto shifting back to park before check engine light comes on. Vehicle initially started with hard shifts at low speeds about 25 mph. Issue progressed to the point where vehicle has to be put into reverse. Otherwise vehicle would not shift at the same poi... Read more

Incident date: Feb 19, 2026

Incident date: Mar 19, 2026

The contact owns a 2020 Ford F-150. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the transmission unexpectedly slipped while changing gear, with the power train warning light illuminated. The dealer was contacted; however, the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer... Read more

Incident date: Jan 1, 2026

I purchased this vehicle on January 5, 2026, from a family-owned dealership in Broken Arrow, OK. The vehicle was purchased “as-is” with a guarantee of sale and a Carfax report. After purchasing the vehicle, I drove it home and it remained parked until January 8, 2026. On Thursday, January 8, 202... Read more

Incident date: Feb 1, 2026

My wife and I went camping to our favorite RV park in Lyndon Station Wisconsin, my sister met us there for a weekend of relaxation and visit. During the first nights stay we were suddenly woke by a smoke filled bedroom/bathroom. Got up and flipped light on and our bedroom was filled with smoke immed... Read more

Fire

Incident date: Feb 1, 2026

Vehicle has been inspected by dealer and all I’ve gotten it’s a natural sound. Vehicle has been taken three times for same issue and nothing has been done. No accidents have occurred.

Incident date: Mar 1, 2026

Completely lost power because battery ran out, and since Cadillac only provided a digital owner's manual, not a printed one, it could only be accessed if the vehicle had power. We were stranded in an area without cell service and could not consult a manual to determine what to do. Cadillac's own web... Read more

Incident date: Nov 17, 2025

Odometer Fraud. The contact purchased a 2014 Nissan Sentra. The contact discovered a mileage discrepancy after the purchase. The vehicle was a private sale. However, the seller had an LLC. At the time of purchase, the mileage was 96,642. It was later discovered that the mileage on the title was 229,... Read more

Incident date: Jan 28, 2026

While driving my 2017 Ford F-150 equipped with the 10-speed automatic transmission, the vehicle began experiencing progressive slipping and delayed shifting between multiple gears, including failure to upshift beyond higher gears during normal driving. The transmission would flare between shifts and... Read more

Incident date: Jan 28, 2026

A hissing noise coming from inside the vehicle when braking. The dealership isolated the problem and concluded it comes from the Brake Booster. The car just came out of manufacture warranty at 39,067 miles. However, there is no check engine or dashboard light on yet.

Incident date: Feb 9, 2026

I am driving down the road and the vehicle goes into neutral and the engine turns off. I then have to stop the vehicle and restart it. When I hit the starter button. It sputters and then starts. This has been happening irregularly 1-3 times a week since it started in December of 2025.With last time... Read more

Incident date: Feb 9, 2026

Incident date: Feb 11, 2026

In the last 6 months I’ve had to put 3 Brake Boosters on my 2017 Chevy Malibu and it’s NOT cheap…. I don’t know what else to do.

Incident date: Feb 11, 2026

In the last 6 months I’ve had to put 3 Brake Boosters on my 2017 Chevy Malibu and it’s NOT cheap…. I don’t know what else to do.

Incident date: Aug 1, 2024

The oil cooler lines cracked due to cold weather and oil spouted out of the engine. Truck was immediately pulled over when the chime went off, however the engine still seized up and needs to be replaced. No warning lights before, just the chime at 0 oil pressure. I see that Canada and Alaska has th... Read more

Incident date: Nov 25, 2025

Hello, I have a VW Tiguan 2025 lease since June2025. i just received a Safety Recall letter from VW on February 2026 advising that because of a potential airbag defect I should not have anyone seating in the passenger seat of my car until further notice. a recall repair is not yet available. How can... Read more

Incident date: Jan 31, 2026

There were two very loud cracking noises. Nothing had hit the car at all. The following day a crack emerged on the windshield. There’s no point of impact and the glass is smooth but the crack is now 1/3 of the windshield. I took it to the dealership where I bought it last month. They initially lie... Read more

Incident date: Jan 31, 2026

The car's transmission starts making noise at 81600 miles on odometer. I turned my car to Toyota certified repair shop to inspecting, Toyota technician told me that the car transmission has fail and needs to be replaced. Toyota is not responsible for replacement. It cost $14000 for the parts plus la... Read more

Incident date: Jan 31, 2026

While driving on the highway my vehicle will shift to neutral

Incident date: Jan 7, 2026

The contact owns a 2019 Jeep Cherokee. The contact stated that on three occasions after refueling the vehicle and driving approximately two feet, the vehicle unexpectedly shutoff. The message to “Shift to Park” was displayed. The contact activated the hazard lights. The accelerator pedal was dep... Read more

Incident date: Dec 24, 2025

The spare tire hoist on Tacomas was over tighten at the factory, when I had a flat, used the kit tool to try to lower spare tire, the weak metal failed, unable to lower tire. Took vehicle to Stapp Toyota, they knew all about the problem, they loosen hoist, but would not cover the tool kit under wa... Read more

Showing 50 of 184 complaints.

NHTSA Safety Ratings, 2021 HYUNDAI SONATA

2021 Hyundai Sonata 4 DR FWD

Category	Rating
Overall Rating	5 / 5 ★★★★★
Frontal Crash	4 / 5 ★★★★☆
Frontal Crash, Driver	4 / 5 ★★★★☆
Frontal Crash, Passenger	5 / 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	Standard
Lane Departure Warning	Standard

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

EPA Fuel Economy, 2021 HYUNDAI SONATA

Trim / Engine	City MPG	Highway MPG	Combined MPG	Fuel Type	Annual Fuel Cost
1.6L 4-cyl, Automatic (S8) (Front-Wheel Drive)	27.0	37.0	30.0	Regular	$2,250
2.5L 4-cyl, Automatic (S8) (Front-Wheel Drive)	27.0	37.0	31.0	Regular	$2,150
2.5L 4-cyl, Automatic (S8) (Front-Wheel Drive)	28.0	38.0	32.0	Regular	$2,100
2.5L 4-cyl, Automatic (AM-S8) (Front-Wheel Drive)	23.0	33.0	27.0	Regular	$2,500

CO2 Emissions: 293.0 g/mile (Large Cars)

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

Technical Service Bulletins, 2021 HYUNDAI SONATA

85 manufacturer communications from 63 unique bulletins. TSBs describe known problems and recommended fixes from the manufacturer.

Most Affected Components

Component	Bulletins
100000 POWER TRAIN	23
060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING	18
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM	7
350000 EQUIPMENT	5
010000 STEERING	4
061600 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:ENGINE CONTROL MODULE (ECU/ECM)	3
103000 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION	3
130000 VISIBILITY	3

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.

061600 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:ENGINE CONTROL MODULE (ECU/ECM)

This bulletin provides the procedure to update the Engine Control Module (ECM) and/or the Transmission Control Module (TCM) for 2020-2023MY Sonata (DN8/DN8a) vehicles to improve operation of the Idle Stop and Go (ISG) system. Under certain

100000 POWER TRAIN

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

100000 POWER TRAIN

This bulletin provides the procedure for updating the automatic transmission TCU and ECU software (Santa Fe ONLY) to improve shift quality, judder with ISG enabled and hesitation when accelerating.

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

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Some vehicles equipped with the AVN 5th Gen Wide system may exhibit a condition where the radio app crashes frequently when entering radio mode and/or displays a message that reads a??Uneven Road Ahead, Drive carefullya?? on the cluster alo

100000 POWER TRAIN

This TSB provides information to diagnose the push button shifter operation.

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

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

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

This bulletin is issued to provide the extended battery diagnosis procedure using GDS-M. This battery diagnosis function displays the various battery-related faults such as: a?? Internal short circuit a?? Battery deterioration a?? Malfun

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

100000 POWER TRAIN

If you are servicing an 8-speed front-wheel-drive vehicle equipped with automatic transaxle with one or more of the DTC or symptoms listed below, refer to the Service Procedure to diagnose the condition. a?? DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODES: a??

100000 POWER TRAIN

This bulletin provides information related to a Transmission Control Unit (TCU) software update for certain vehicles equipped with an 8-speed wet dual clutch transmissions (8WDCT) that improves the touch point learning variation. Certain 8W

100000 POWER TRAIN

This bulletin outlines changes to the service procedure regarding the replacement of 8-speed wet dual clutch transmissions (8WDCT) and associated transmission control unit (TCU). These changes only apply to vehicles equipped with Theta 2.5T

100000 POWER TRAIN

If you are servicing an 8-speed vehicle with a a??Check Enginea?? light on and one or more of the DTC listed, follow the service procedure and replace the related solenoid and harness.

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

This bulletin provides warranty procedure for EGR Valve replacement related to DTC P0401 EGR Flow Insufficient on 2020 and 2021MY Sonata (DN8a) equipped with 2.5 GDI Vehicles.

100000 POWER TRAIN

This TSB provides information to diagnose the push button shifter operation. If you are servicing a vehicle with any symptoms listed below or DTCs (listed on Page 2) , follow the Service Procedure on Page 3. SYMPTOMS: a?? a??Shifter System

103000 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION

If you are servicing an 8-speed DCT front-wheel-drive vehicle with the DTC or symptoms listed below, refer to the Service Procedure to diagnose the condition. a?? DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODES: a?? P070500 - Transmission range sensor circuit m

100000 POWER TRAIN

103300 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:GEAR POSITION INDICATION (PRNDL)

061600 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:ENGINE CONTROL MODULE (ECU/ECM)

114900 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING:POSITION/LIMIT SENSOR/SWITCH

353610 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:INFOTAINMENT:SOFTWARE

This Service Information bulletin provides information on how to update the Apple Carplay software from Hyundaia??s Navigation Updates page. The current version of Google Maps has 10 times the data transmission compared to the previous vers

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

100000 POWER TRAIN

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

This bulletin provides the diagnostic procedure for the GDI injector(s) in certain 21-23MY Sonata, 21-22MY Santa Fe, certain 22MY Santa Cruz, and certain 21-23MY Tucson equipped with 2.5L GDI engines with one or more misfire DTC(s) due to i

100000 POWER TRAIN

This bulletin provides service procedures to prevent possible moisture intrusion of the HP EOP (High Flow Electric Oil Pump) connector when servicing the 8-speed wet dual clutch transmission (8WDCT). If moisture enters the HF EOP connector,

103000 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION

This TSB applies only if Recall 236 or Service Campaign T8N has been performed and the 8 speed wet dual clutch transmission (8WDCT) replacement is necessary related due to high pressure electric oil pump (HP EOP) DTCa??s P1C2D03 (HP EOP Mot

100000 POWER TRAIN

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

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

This bulletin provides the procedure to repair poor pin tension at joint connector JE102 in certain Sonata (1.6 T-GDI engine) with one or more DTC.

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

This bulletin provides the procedure to repair poor pin tension at joint connector JE202 in certain Sonata (2.5L GDI engine) with one or more DTC.

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

If you are servicing an 8-speed vehicle with a a??Check Enginea?? light on and one or more of the DTC listed, follow the service procedure and replace the related solenoid and harness.

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

This bulletin provides the diagnostic procedure for the GDI injector(s) in certain 21-23MY Sonata, 21-22MY Santa Fe, certain 22MY Santa Cruz, and certain MY21-23 Tucson equipped with 2.5L GDI engines with one or more misfire DTC(s) due to i

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

260000 FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE

Some 2021 ~ 2022MY Sonata (DN8/DN8a) vehicles with N-Line trim may not engage Forward Collision Avoidance Assist a?? Junction Turning (FCA-JT) due to omitted logic.

100000 POWER TRAIN

This bulletin outlines changes to the service manual regarding the replacement of 8-speed dual clutch transmissions (DCT) and associated transmission control module (TCM). Additional steps, not in the service manual, are required within GDS

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

This bulletin provides the diagnostic procedure for the GDI injector(s) in certain 21-22MY Sonata, Santa Fe, and certain 22MY Santa Cruz, and Tucson equipped with 2.5L GDI engines with one or more misfire DTC(s) due to internally leaking GD

100000 POWER TRAIN

This bulletin provides the procedure to update the TCU software to improve drivability and shift quality.

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

If you are servicing an applicable vehicle with a a??Check Enginea?? light on and one or more of the DTC listed on Page 2, follow the repair procedure and perform the diagnosis. If necessary, replace the High Flow electric oil pump (HF

010000 STEERING

Certain vehicles may develop a bearing noise within the Motor Driven Power Steering (MDPS) column worm shaft assembly. If bearing noise is heard, follow the procedure in this bulletin to replace the worm shaft bearing.

100000 POWER TRAIN

If you are servicing an applicable vehicle with a a??Check Enginea?? light on and one or more of the DTC listed below, follow the repair procedure and replace the related solenoid and valve body harness.

010000 STEERING

Certain 2020-2022MY Sonata (DN8A) vehicles may develop a bearing noise within the Motor Driven Power Steering (MDPS) column worm shaft assembly. If bearing noise is heard, follow the procedure in this bulletin to replace the worm shaft be

103200 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:FLUID/LUBRICANT

Certain vehicles equipped with 8-speed automatic transmission may experience an automatic transmission fluid (ATF) leak at the rear cover. This type of leak is caused by a porous casting on the rear cover of the transmission.

353000 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL

Certain 2020-22MY Sonata (DN8a) and 2021-22MY Santa Fe (TMa) vehicles equipped with 2.5L engine may exhibit a MIL with DTC(s): a?? P2074: Mass Airflow Sensor Plausibility a?? P2074F0: Manifold Absolute Pressure/Mass Air Flow - Throttle Po

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

100000 POWER TRAIN

This TSB provides a procedure to diagnose the push button shifter operation. If you are servicing a vehicle with any symptoms or DTC listed below, follow the Service Procedure, Page 2.

062300 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:COOLING SYSTEM:HOSES/LINES/PIPING/FITTINGS

Certain vehicles listed below equipped with 2.5T turbo engines may have a misassembled check valve for the PCV (Positive Crankcase Ventilation) system, resulting in engine oil entering the intake and contaminating the air cleaner. This bull

061600 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:ENGINE CONTROL MODULE (ECU/ECM)

Certain 2020-22MY Sonata (DN8a), 2021-22MY Santa Fe (TMa), and 2022MY Tucson (NX4/NX4a) vehicles equipped with 2.5L engine may exhibit a MIL with DTC(s): a?? P2074: Mass Airflow Sensor Plausibility a?? P2074F0: Manifold Absolute Pressure/

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

Certain 2020-2021 Sonata (DN8a) vehicles with 1.6T engines may exhibit a check engine light in conjunction with a popping noise, abnormal smell from the engine compartment, rough running, or reduced power due to a misfire.

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

Certain Sonata N-Line vehicles may have an uneven appearance between LH and RH exhaust tips due to slightly misaligned rear mufflers. This bulletin describes the procedure to adjust and realign the rear mufflers to correct the appearance.

100000 POWER TRAIN

: Certain vehicles equipped with 8-speed automatic transmission may experience an automatic transmission fluid (ATF) leak at the rear cover. This type of leak is caused by a porous casting on the rear cover of the transmission.

010000 STEERING

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

100000 POWER TRAIN

This TSB provides a procedure to diagnose the push button shifter operation.

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

This bulletin provides information related to an Electronic Control Module (ECM) software update which revises the OBD Air Fuel Ratio Imbalance (AFRI) monitor function frequency and cylinder imbalance diagnosis logic.

100000 POWER TRAIN

If you are servicing an 8-speed front-wheel-drive vehicle with the DTC or symptoms listed below, refer to the Service Procedure to diagnose the condition. i?? DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODES: i?? P070500 - Transmission range sensor circuit malfu

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

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

350000 EQUIPMENT

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.

355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL

This bulletin describes the procedure to update the radio software to help reduce the disconnection occurrences.

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

This bulletin describes the procedure to update the radio software to help reduce the disconnection occurrences.

010000 STEERING

The rack-mounted dual pinion Motor Driven Power Steering (MDPS) system components can be replaced separately from the complete assembly. This bulletin provides information on the separate components and the replacement procedure of these co

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

When using Wireless CarPlay, the system may intermittently auto disconnect. When Wireless CarPlay is disconnected, a pop up message a??Phone Not Responding. Please reconnect it and try againa?? will appear on the radio screen. This bulletin

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

This bulletin provides information on the Launch Quality Monitoring Process (LQMP) for the 2021MY Hyundai Sonata N Line. After a new vehicle launch, Hyundai uses the LQMP to monitor all customer and dealer activities at a minimum of 100 day

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

350000 EQUIPMENT

This bulletin describes the procedure to replace the front door module assembly if the front door window cannot close or the door regulator cables are separated from the regulator track.

162300 STRUCTURE:BODY:DOOR

This bulletin describes the procedure to replace the front door module assembly if the front door window cannot close or the door regulator cables are separated from the regulator track.

130000 VISIBILITY

This bulletin describes the procedure to replace the front door module assembly if the front door window cannot close or the door regulator cables are separated from the regulator track.

356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY

This bulletin describes the procedure to identify and program certain Sonata vehicles Rear Corner Radars from the Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) modules to enable the Safe Exit Assist (SEA) warning feature.

350000 EQUIPMENT

162000 STRUCTURE:BODY

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

100000 POWER TRAIN

This bulletin provides a procedure to transfer pressure data to the TCU using GDS Mobile. This procedure is necessary to reduce the transmission learning time and improve the shift quality.

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

22,306 Total Complaints

10 Investigations

1,220 Reported Crashes

675 Reported Fires

28 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	21	View
2024	1	74	View
2023	2	140	View
2022	3	142	View
2021 (current)	4	184
2020	4	275	View
2019	0	213	View
2018	1	553	View
2017	3	1,003	View
2016	6	998	View
2015	9	1,665	View
2014	7	1,081	View
2013	9	2,657	View
2012	8	2,280	View
2011	14	4,627	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

2021 HYUNDAI SONATA

Complaint Statistics

Top Reported Components

NHTSA Safety Ratings, 2021 HYUNDAI SONATA

Safety Technology

EPA Fuel Economy, 2021 HYUNDAI SONATA

Technical Service Bulletins, 2021 HYUNDAI SONATA

Most Affected Components

NHTSA Safety Investigations, HYUNDAI SONATA

HYUNDAI SONATA - All Years Overview

HYUNDAI SONATA - Year by Year

Other HYUNDAI Models