general problems of the 2013 Hyundai Sonata - part 1

219 problems related to electrical system have been reported for the 2013 Hyundai Sonata. The most recently reported issues are listed below. Please also check out the statistics and reliability analysis of the 2013 Hyundai Sonata based on all problems reported for the 2013 Sonata.

1 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 01/09/2026

While driving, vehicle slowed down abruptly and stopped. It was flashing “vehicle not safe to drive”. This happened before hen I got a new engine 2 years ago. Even with a new engine now it is happening again. I took it to Nissan moreno valley and paid $240 for diagnostic only to find out there a software update they had to do with a tablet. No work needed to be one just a software update hooked up to their system. Hyundai cooperate would not assist to over this fee. I like have crashed with this happening. The car just stops with no warning and it’s extremely dangerous how it cuts off while driving. Luckily I was on the streets not freeway.

2 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 10/10/2025

Rear view camera stopped working about 6 weeks ago. Mechanic says need new camera which would cost about $500 labor and parts. Contacted dealer and Hyundai corporate to report and complain. Many other Hyundai vehicles have same problem with rear view camera but they are included in a recall campaign. Mine is not. Mechanic said the repair requires new camera and wireing harness. Hyundai case number is 41861577.

3 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 09/09/2025

The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated that while driving at approximately 75 mph with three passengers inside the vehicle, the vehicle stalled. There were no warning lights illuminated or messages displayed prior to the failure and the vehicle shutting off. The vehicle could not able to be restarted. The vehicle was coasted off the exit to safety and then towed to the residence. The contact’s neighbor and son inspected the battery but found no fault with the vehicle. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 135,000.

4 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 09/01/2025

I have tried to have my Sonata 2013 gone over gor the previous ownership never gave me any ro in this bias was stared. This previous wherebpurchased and worked , was not on the the up and up. Vwhere ,steele Hyundaibwhen owned know keating group purchased. I'm asking ngo iver the safety I the setvice ussues t hat Hyundai is awarevand have all thr campsign numbers looked up I do not believe since ive oened the car ,sonata anythingbwas donen,agein nothing evervstated and knly oil changes done without any given paper wirk given on recalls except oil changes. Ssues and . So wanting, asking that no chargeb,go iver make sure for the situation posted and Hyundai posts in 6bareas yes , go over for the brake system is causing the hybird tobshit down and the car with squiggly line know comes on fuses and the the brake power booster sensor is the problem gor I had the Sonatanon computer that came up also shavings in the engine campaign 162,994 251 to go iver no charge to make sure it was done and whatever faulty be replaced no charge . Charge to Hyundai for the problems if safety and service are on line stating should be taken care if no charge to consumer. Nothing is happening, just the insanity definition, to resolve. I ask forba new case manager I'm entitled to, can't turn down ,but is and lies about contact. Once, returned call no return call. Hope in the next 24 hours this be resolved so I can have this situation at no charge,don't believe ever done,no paper work in my possession, never had oil changes. Never told ,never anything from Hyundai. Almost got reat ended will send bill any to Hyundai tontalje carebofbas well something know NHTSA isn't helping after many complaints as this. Hyundai admits no charge for t his situation ,insanity and no cooperation just arrogance and belligerence . Mileage has nothing to do with. Engine should be looked at for whatnot NHTSA rant about engine in my Sonata hybird and engine,problem still exists at.

5 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 09/01/2025

This has been going on nothing resolved and no cooperation. Im going yo locate an attorney that really don't want to. Requesting this be ,the situation be loojedvatb,at no chargevand replace whatbwasvsuppisedly replaced by steele south loop Hyundai ,houston texas ,sold to keating groupbbased out if texas. What I'm asking isn't make sure itvwas done ,and whatever replaced ,inexpensive to do to. Repkace the parts , and computerbprograned to make current no chsrgebto ne for Hyundaibsta t ES in line and would not be getting emails from NHTSA as I do . Hope finally 24 hours resolve, cooperation and done finally.

6 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 08/08/2025

Wiring for headlights, and break lights has been malfunctioning. It is not a fuse and I have tried changing them to the point I keep extra in my trunk and still won't work. Yes, available for inspection, I have been pulled over multiple times and was written a citation yesterday.

7 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 08/01/2025

I am driving and all of a sudden the brakevsystem lighthouse on bthe hybird system begins to fail and ge car loses power I almost got hit 4 times already, from this . The system starts to ding ,shut down and states to bring to a certified mechanic ir dealership. Hyundai has on line tgeybarevaware and this problem for this model and should be taken care if no charge for bis a problem for this year model and hybird model 3 diff we rent areas on lounge through Hyundai it states this a known issue. The part to replace and had a certified ase mechanic on computer look and went through the computer system and stated it is a power booster brake sensor. This is starednin 3 different areas bon Hyundai websitebfornthe model and year. Suppised the recall in the nowhere done oct 8 2024 but never had any letter of recall nor the dealership contact me anmboutbthis ,but had an oil change done at or about the supposed nrevapl been done. I have no documentation of this nor any given so inwantb,asking give me type kit needed, to take care nofbthis. . No documentation ofbanybkjnd given exceptb,no invoice given done, so I would like tge kit for fuses do go bad. Anything can be put in computer stating what is supposed done but not. Im not asking except to rake carebof this no charge for Hyundai it's free in 3 different areas should be done non published recall . For this year. All online. I asked for cooperation in this matterband the dealership that purchased has been sold to anormther and banner dealership stated in line ,not responsible for previous dealerships problems etc,take it up warmth them the steele group out if canada,that sold to ge jeating group that know owns this dealership . . I asked for a newbcasemmanager ,drniedband I have a rightbtocaskband should be changed for her arrogance, belligerence in nmattrr should not be. I purchasednthe brake booster sensorbforbwhat fred bactyally a little less with labor, beingshipped from Hyundai . Dot.

8 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 07/14/2025

We were sitting in our car at a hardees drive through when we noticed smoke coming out from under the hood. I pulled forward to a parking space and opened the hood. Flames shot up at least 6 feet. I quickly ran a short distance into the fast food place and right near the door was a fire extinguisher, which I grabbed and put the fire out with. The fire burned for about a total of 2-3 minutes, and did not do excessive damage. Coil packs and wiring harness got most of the damage. With the hood closed, you cannot even tell there was a fire. I had the car towed to grayson Hyundai for the recall part, but then entered a claim to Hyundai. Long story short, they stalled me for over a month and then denied the claim. Citing no damage to the cam. Unlike most of the fires with this carline, my car fire was put out very quickly. The recalled fuel line/tube was not damaged much at all. You could inspect the part and see the wear on it and tell it was the culprit. It didn't take a trained mechanic to see this. After I put the fire out and it cooled, I tried starting it, and there was fuel squirting out from the recalled part. There is absolutely no doubt that the recalled part was the cause of the fire. But Hyundai has given me a denial letter that does not state the reason for denial. The Hyundai rep on the phone told me it had to do with no damage to the cam. I then asked, thats because I got the fire out so fast right? and he said no, didn't have anything to do with it. But he lied. First of all, the cam has nothing to do with the cause of the fire. A damaged cam only happens when the fire was long lasting and severe. They should have inspected the obvious recalled part right in front of them. This denial is completely unprofessional and hints of a concerted effort to categorically deny claims. They don't usually have this much evidence, they did this time and still blew it. Had I let it burn to the ground,=approved.

9 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 06/07/2025

My car caught fire. The area where the stereo, heater, all melted even the windshield cracked and the gear shifter melted.

10 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 06/01/2025

Halogen headlight bubls h7 melting the casing socket. Making my headlight assembly smoke.

11 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 06/01/2025

I have a 2013 Hyundai Sonata 4 door sedan. I am unable to open the driver's left hand door to exit the car after turning off my vehicle. Only way I can open door to exit is to lower the window while motor still running, reach outside and grasp door handle from outside to open and push/pull handle which doesn't allow me control over the door. Then I have to raise window with door standing open before I am able to turn off the ignition and exit my car. In case of an emergency this is unsafe for driver and passengers. In this instance, I was trapped inside a hot car in texas summer heat. In another instance, I could have had an accident and would have been unable to exit to safety. I searched for recall to this model which is covered for Hyundai Sonata manufactured in other years but my vehicle 2013 make is not included in same recall for exact same issue. There was no warning lamp, messages prior to failure. I have googled this "condition" and learned that this is a common problem for Hyundai Sonatas.

12 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 05/08/2025

My car starts making noise then I pull over. My car completely shuts off and I tried to restart it, didn’t start. My engine I think is ruined.

13 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 05/01/2025

1. I purchased this vehicle in 2016 and I have had my rear brake lights repaired several times because the rear tail lights continue to go out, this happens regularly. There is no warning lights on the dash to indicate an issue. The only way I learned that my brake lights don't work properly is another motorist driving behind me and almost rear ending me. I have had the rear brake lights repaired by the dealership before. My brakes always smell like burning rubber after driving having me to believe that the lubricant for the brake pads aren't working. 2. The dashboard lights also periodically blinks out without warning. After a few moments it will illuminate again. 3. My seatbelts sometimes doesn't tighten up. I have to pull them several times for them to catch and return after the seatbelt isn't in use.

14 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 04/19/2025

Unknown, caught fire. ??.

15 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 12/06/2024

After starting, got a warning stating check hybrid braking, do not drive. When going forward, brake pedal went to floor, heard heavy grinding noise and vehicle stopped accelerating. Had to use the emergency brakes to avoid an accident. Hyundai says they can’t find a problem. Now I can’t even drive it back to the dealer! did an internet search and many other hybrid owners have reported the same issue. I just want to have Hyundai buy the car back at this point. It only has a little over 50,000 miles on it.

16 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 11/22/2024

My car broke down and now the car does not pick up speed and rattles when I press the gas pedal.

17 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 11/04/2024

2013 Hyundai Sonata engine caught on fire after being replaced twice.

18 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 09/02/2024

Within a span of 6 months, 3 out of 4 doors on this car failed. The interior handle on the driver's side snapped off; it crumbled apart and sliced through the hand of the person opening the door. This occurred while the car was in park. Within 6 months the door latches on both rear doors froze and made it impossible to open the doors. This meant that no one could enter or exit through the rear of the car. Children needing to ride in the car would have to climb through the front to get to the back but would be unable to open the doors to exit, since the door latches failed. Though this is an older car, it is gently used and, at most, is driven 13 miles a day to and from work. Rear doors had rarely been used when they broke.

19 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 08/18/2024

My headlights and break lights are constantly going out. My back taillights light connected is constantly burned up which is a huge safety concern because I can’t see. My car has multiple recalls for engine problems which fit my car problems such as premature bearing wear but it won’t be covered because my VIN number isn’t associated with that recall.

20 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 07/11/2024

Car loss power turned off on turnpike while driving 45k miles per hour and hybrid battery system lights alarms turned on at 94k had car towed to dealership. I was told that it was the hybrid battery and that it was changed. I am now having same problem again after taking car in for recall updated. Attempted to pick car up twice couldn't get a mile away from the dealership both times the car was jerking lost power and car turned off abruptly. Again hybrid system failure lights alarms. I initially told it was the hybrid battery, now finding out the battery was never changed, after being told it was the battery for 3 months now being told it is the hpcu a hybrid battery component. Part 36600-3d003.

21 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 04/19/2024

On 04/19/24 I was driving my car like I normally do. There was no indication of a problem whatsoever. No lights were on, no malfunctioning, no nothing. Suddenly an alarm sounded while I was travelling about 60 mph in normal, dry weather conditions. The digital dashboard said "hybrid system warning! safely stop and do not drive" and suddenly every single light on the dashboard lit in sync with each other. I pulled my car over on the side of the road and thought maybe I could reboot it. Nothing worked so I had to have the car towed to my house because the service center was closed. I performed research to learn that my car was on the recall list and needed to be serviced. I spoke to the dealership on 04/20/24 and told them it was a recall and needed service. A man asked me to have it towed there on 04/22/24 and that was the last time I have seen my car as of today 05/26/24! I have been calling to very kindly get some kind of status on the repair and when my car will be available for pickup. Every time I call they tell me they will give me my car back "tomorrow," but tomorrow never comes. I have reached out to Hyundai to ask them for reimbursement of my expenses and to be compensated for such an inconvenience and they are telling me they have a limit on reimbursements that only covers a certain amount of the expense I have had to pay for ride sharing. I would like to be compensated for the hardships this has caused me, the pain and suffering, work stoppage, and reduced quality of life since I do not have the car I paid cash for. The time I have had to wait for the repairs is beyond unreasonable and should result in compensation.

22 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 04/18/2024

Hello, my rear brake lights burn out frequently and the bulbs get so hot it deforms the plastic bulb holders and the light bulb falls out resulting in no brake lights. This has been happening for over 10 years. Hyundai has acknowledged the problem and sent a notice to repair it for free if the car is less than 15 years old or less than 200,000 mile. My Sonata has 210,000 miles and they will not repair the defect. I've replaced hundreds of bulbs and multiple bulb holders/wiring harnesses. My daughter has been pulled over multiple times and yelled at from other drivers because her brake lights do not work. The reason why these bulbs get so hot is because it receives to much voltage. Hyundai acknowledges this fact. My brake lights receive 13. 4 volts instead of around 12. To much voltage gets them hot and burns them out quicker. It's a safety issue Hyundai acknowledges but wont repair. I guess I have no alternative but to keep replacing the bulbs. . . . This car is not ready for the scrap yard yet as it get a new engine from Hyundai because the original seized up from another Hyundai defect do you have any recourse or advise on how to get Hyundai to repair it like they would if the car had 199,999 miles on it? Hyundai refused to budge on the matter. Any advice?.

23 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 04/15/2024

Brake lights do not illuminate when parking lights are engaged. We have replaced the socket multiple times. The standard 1157 bulb causes the socket to melt and has deformed the housing for the bulb from extreme heat from the bulb. Replaced the socket 3 times in 3 months this last time it stopped working within 4 days. The obvious safety risk is that cars following the vehicle not being able to determine when the car is braking for a stop at night. The secondary concern is that the lights pose a fire hazard.

24 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 03/01/2024

The electrical has been an issue for this vehicle. The head and tail lights continuously go out. Sometimes they work, and other times they do not. Since the lights have been an issue, the electrical issue is also now inside the vehicle. The radio and other controls in the vehicle do not work any longer, as well as the lights in the radio, air conditioning, and other controls inside the vehicle. The steering wheel is also loose now and jiggles when driving the vehicle. There have been no warning lamps about these issues, and I had an auto shop confirm that there are electrical and steering issues. I did receive a letter about a recall for electrical for the year, type, and model of my car, however, the dealership said that my VIN number is not associated with the recall and will not fix the issues.

25 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 02/15/2024

I see that the recall notice was issued in September of 2023 but I have to say that for no recall remedy to be available yet is disheartening. I drive my car every day and it is the only car I have, because of that I risk my life everyday. My car loses power because of this recall daily and it ranges from 3-6 times a day. I lose power on the highway, the main roads and back roads, it does not matter the speed or time of day. I would like them to push out a fix now. Eventually I will end up in an accident because sadly I cannot afford to get into a new car or a used car.

26 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 02/07/2024

Driver side brake lights keep melting the housing replaced at my cost the housing and bulb 2 times took to dealer no help went in at 202258 miles for service had a extended warranty which had expired at 200,000 dealer offered no help told me about cost of new housing I looked and found bad bulb replaced it for $6. 00 insteaded of $300 plus dollars for housing dealer was no help with this problem safety problem with no brake light.

27 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 01/27/2024

While driving the car at freeway speeds it died and quit running, and the engine compartment began smoking, and a fire ensued under the hood. Gasoline could be smelled before it started fire.

28 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 01/18/2024

Hyundai recall 23v651000 has no remedy after 4 months of the start of the recall.

29 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 01/15/2024

Wires, reverse osmosis system unauthorized and unknown.

30 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 12/04/2023

Engine failure driving on the freeway. Many of the clusters in the dash suddenly lite up, check engine light also multiple warning lights. Suddenly vehicle would not accelerate. Feels like my life as well as my passengers were put at risk. Cars suddenly passing us at freeway speeds. As I pulled to the shoulder of cars were very close to hitting ours. Then when we pulled over we saw smoke coming out of the hood of the car and imediately smelled gas or plastic burning. We got out of vehicle thinking that the car might carch on fire. . The police pushed our car out the freeway to a safe zone. Had the car towed to a shop and confirmed engine failure. As of now the vehicle will not start. We are frightened that there may be a gas leak that might cause an explosion or engine may fail again while driving.

31 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 09/15/2023

When activating gas pedal, there is a rattling and grinding when in motion and then it subsides. When stopped at light or intersection, when giving gas again, the rattling and grinding resumes. Car seemed to be running a little louder than it's ever been since purchasing a few years ago. At no time has there been any dashboard lights or warnings prompting any problems with engine, low oil or anything else which is what the dealer service center is now telling me is an issue with engine needing to be replaced. Current issues have not been occuring very long which causes me to give the service center a call for an appointment in the first place. Vehicle was dropped off a week ago today, Friday, 9/22/2023, waiting for parts. Currently no work has been done to my vehicle and is sitting on the service center's lot. Was told it will take quite a while to get parts. I've had a rental since Monday of this week and I'm scheduled to return it this evening. Rental is and was expensive and I don't have a spare vehicle to get back and forth to work. Service center hasn't offered a loaner vehicle or suggested a rental company that will provide reasonable rates and collaboration with them. I just want my vehicle fixed and not have to repair cost that would be equal to me just getting another vehicle which is what the quoted cost to repair my vehicle is equivalent to.

32 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 07/20/2023

Tail lights constantly burn out. I have now replaced the same taillight harness 3 times and each time it is burned. This is a serious fire hazard.

33 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 07/02/2023

The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated that upon turning off the vehicle, the rear brake lights remained illuminated. Due to the failure, the vehicle failed to start up due to the battery being drained overnight. The contact researched the failure and discovered how to disconnect the brake lights to prevent the battery from being drained. The dealer was notified of the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 110,000.

34 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 06/27/2023

The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Sonata. The contact became aware that the brake lights were illuminated without the brake pedal being depressed. The contact restarted the vehicle and the failure persisted. The contact stated that due to the brake lights remaining illuminated, the battery terminal had to be disconnected to avoid draining the battery. The contact stated that after one failure, a mechanic pulled over to the side of the roadway and the contact was informed that a sensor related to the brake lights had failed and needed to be replaced. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 18,178.

35 Electrical System problem

Failure Date: 06/23/2023

The engine lost power while getting on the highway. I was able to let off the gas and then go again. This happened several times. I took the car to the dealer where I bought it new. I found out that there was a recall on the brake stopper. The dealership never mentioned this. They said the program was over and charged me $231 for a part that was recalled. Are they allowed to not inform us of recalls? please advise. The dealership is keith hawthorne Hyundai in gastonia nc. 704-824-6010.



Sonata Service Bulletins
Sonata Safety Recalls
Sonata Defect Investigations