Engine And Engine Cooling Problems of Hyundai Sonata - part 1

Hyundai Sonata owners have reported 3,476 problems related to engine and engine cooling (under the engine and engine cooling category). The most recently reported issues are listed below. Also please check out the statistics and reliability analysis of Hyundai Sonata based on all problems reported for the Sonata.

1 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2015 Hyundai Sonata

Failure Date: 11/07/2026

Was driving my 2015 Hyundai Sonata with my daughter and there was a really loud thump, like something came apart. There was instant smoke and really loud knocking and reduced power. Right after that, I pulled over into a church so I wasn't blocking traffic, and when I got out, there was oil coming out everywhere and a hole in the engine block. I read about a lawsuit settlement and seeing that alot of drivers get a flashing engine light and car reduce power. That is not what happened with me, was just a loud pop, smoke and loud knocking. This has put me and my daughter at risk. I’m asking NHTSA to investigate why an engine with an update that was installed to prevent what happened could fail on the road, produce that much smoke, and spill oil the way it did. I had a driveway to pull into but another driver might not of have nowhere safe to go. If Hyundai knew this type of failure could happen, I want NHTSA to look at whether the update gives drivers enough warning and whether more needs to be done to keep these cars safe on the road.

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2 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2013 Hyundai Sonata

Failure Date: 11/02/2026

Water in barings.

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3 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2017 Hyundai Sonata

Failure Date: 11/01/2026

On the morning of September 26, 2026, when starting my vehicle, I noticed that the oil warning light was flashing. The outside temperature was in the low 40s, which immediately raised concerns about the vehicle's engine and oil pressure. I promptly shut off the engine and checked the oil level. The oil level was full, as I expected, because I had checked it the previous day. I have consistently paid close attention to the oil level in this vehicle because it has consumed oil throughout the entire time I have owned it, beginning shortly after I purchased it brand new. Due to this ongoing issue, I make it a point to keep extra engine oil in my trunk so I can monitor and maintain the proper oil level. On September 29, 2026, I stopped by the joe holland Hyundai service department and spoke with dillon about the oil warning light continuing to flicker while driving. Unfortunately, no resolution or explanation was provided. However, dillon did acknowledge that the engine in my vehicle had previously been identified on a problem list due to a machining error that occurred during the engine manufacturing process. This acknowledgment is particularly concerning because it suggests that Hyundai was aware of a potential manufacturing defect involving this engine. Despite the vehicle's ongoing oil consumption and the appearance of the oil warning light, I have yet to receive a satisfactory explanation or resolution from the dealership.

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4 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2015 Hyundai Sonata

Failure Date: 10/31/2026

I am writing to formally report a serious and potentially dangerous safety issue involving my 2015 Hyundai Sonata. At approximately 93,000 miles, my vehicle experienced a complete engine failure, which resulted in Hyundai replacing the engine. Unfortunately, I am now experiencing another serious mechanical or electrical malfunction. While I am driving, my vehicle unexpectedly shuts off completely. When this happens, I cannot restart it immediately. I must wait approximately two to five minutes before the vehicle will restart. This situation is extremely concerning because it exposes me, my passengers, and other motorists to a significant safety risk. An unexpected shutdown while traveling on a public roadway could result in a serious accident. Given the vehicle's previous engine failure and Hyundai's subsequent engine replacement, I am requesting a thorough investigation into whether the current malfunction is connected to the replacement engine, its associated components, or another underlying defect. Specifically, I am requesting: a comprehensive diagnostic inspection to identify the cause of the unexpected shutdowns and delayed restarts. A review of the vehicle's previous engine replacement and repair history. Verification of all applicable warranties, extended engine coverage, recalls, and service campaigns. Written documentation of the diagnostic findings and the recommended corrective action. Consideration of full warranty coverage or goodwill assistance for repairs associated with the previous engine replacement or any covered defect. Assistance with safe transportation or towing, given the risk of driving the vehicle in its current condition. I have a dealership service visit scheduled for Saturday, November 7, 2026, and I am notifying Hyundai in advance to ensure that this serious safety concern is formally documented. I respectfully request written acknowledgment of this complaint, a case number, and confirmation that the dealership will inve.

5 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2016 Hyundai Sonata

Failure Date: 10/29/2026

I am filing a formal safety complaint regarding severe vehicle instability, structural safety risks, and dealership workmanship negligence following a federal safety recall engine replacement. My vehicle received a new engine block under a federal campaign at a local dealership. Immediately upon picking up the vehicle, the front suspension developed a severe, heavy mechanical knocking and bumping noise over road surfaces under 20 mph, making the vehicle structurally unstable and hazardous to drive. To perform this engine swap, technicians were physically required to drop the front subframe framework and disconnect the lower suspension linkages and steering column components. The dealership is actively trying to deflect safety accountability for an assembly error. They issued a new estimate attempting to charge me over $3,200 to replace the entire front strut and rear shock assembly, claiming it is a 'pre-existing wear-and-tear' issue due to mileage. However, I hold the dealership's official multi-point vehicle inspection report from when the car was first dropped off for the engine failure three weeks prior. In that mandatory baseline safety report, their own technician thoroughly checked the under-carriage and officially marked my 'shock absorbers / suspension' and 'steering gear box / linkage and boots' as passed with green checkmarks. This objective paper trail proves the front chassis was tight, silent, and structurally safe before the repair. The safety hazard was introduced solely during the dealership's engine reassembly. The service manager explicitly refused to step out of his office to address this safety complaint, and the dealership released a compromised, structurally unsafe vehicle to a consumer. I request a formal federal safety investigation into this branch's safety compliance regarding recall implementation.

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6 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2017 Hyundai Sonata

Failure Date: 10/24/2026

The contact owns a 2017 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated that while driving at 65 mph, there was an abnormal sound coming from the vehicle with the check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed with engine failure. The contact was informed that the engine was consuming oil. The contact referenced an unknown recall; however, the VIN was not under recall. The contact was informed to take the vehicle to the dealer for assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 180,000.

7 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2017 Hyundai Sonata

Failure Date: 10/21/2026

The contact owns a 2017 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated that while driving at 65 mph, there was smoke coming from under the hood, and the vehicle lost automotive power and the vehicle was barely moving. The contact was able to drive the vehicle to the residence at a slow speed. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, and the contact was informed that the engine was consuming an excessive amount of engine oil and that there was no oil in the engine. The contact stated that the vehicle had received an oil change one week prior to the failure. The dealer was contacted and made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 180,000.

8 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2015 Hyundai Sonata

Failure Date: 10/21/2026

On Wednesday, October 21, 2026, our 2015 Hyundai Sonata with the 2. 4l theta ii gdi engine suffered a sudden, complete engine seizure while traveling about 75 mph on I-25 southbound near castle rock, CO. A family member was driving. Warning lights across the car began flashing, the engine made a loud grinding noise, and the brakes stopped working. Over a long distance, the driver was able to get the car onto the shoulder and bring it to a stop, then engage the parking brake. There was no collision and no injuries, only because traffic was light. The car was towed to a repair shop, then transferred to a second shop, which determined the engine had seized and requires full replacement. This vehicle is covered by Hyundai's theta ii gdi engine campaigns for connecting rod bearing failure. On October 26, 2026, Hyundai told us the knock sensor detection system software update (campaign 953) was never completed on this vehicle and declined coverage. Neither we nor the prior owners, who are family members, recall receiving any notice of this campaign. All previous check engine lights were diagnosed and repaired at independent shops, including an intake manifold replacement in April 2024, and no shop ever identified an open engine campaign. A full engine seizure at highway speed, combined with the loss of braking, creates a serious crash risk for the driver and surrounding traffic.

9 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2017 Hyundai Sonata

Failure Date: 10/15/2026

I had recently taken my 2017 Hyundai Sonata in for an engine diagnostic check at the bel air Hyundai dealership, (10/15/26) worth $199. 99 for an hour of maintenance, after experiencing sudden jolts when powering on and driving, needing additional time warming up. My initial thought was that the temperature gauge had gotten stuck again, or that the sensor needed to be fixed. I suggested that the dealership check for this issue before doing the diagnostic to see if it was still needed afterward. My service advisor, kevin, said that this is included as part of the diagnostic testing. I figured it would be in the best interest for my vehicle to do an initial check, regardless of cost, to avoid further complications down the line, yet the 9 c2 update was performed without my consent or knowledge beforehand. They performed a multipoint inspection, which shows on record I had it done months prior during my last oil change, free of charge on both occasions, yet it only shows the vehicle, not engine. I have the lifetime warranty as advertised, covered by zurich, which my service advisor showed me on his computer. However, he said my concern was a mechanical issue, not covered under this warranty. After the diagnostic was performed, I was shown the invoice, including the 9 c2 emissions page at the end, explaining the effects of this update. It does not serve as a systemic improvement, but a worsening change in operation and performance. I was only told about the service after it was performed. It is astounding because the side effects explained on the 9 c2 form are the actual concerns I had before bringing the car in. The update was not a necessary procedure, from my understanding this will only lead to more safety risks down the line. After doing research, given recent complaints about how it has affected many vehicles, I must share that they should have notified me beforehand to be aware about these risks so that I could make the personal decision for my vehicle.

10 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2013 Hyundai Sonata

Failure Date: 10/12/2026

My 2013 Sonata caught fire from the engine I was barely able to get out safely.

11 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2014 Hyundai Sonata

Failure Date: 10/09/2026

Summary of event: this vehicle was brought to an authorized Hyundai dealership for a mandatory safety recall engine replacement under the theta ii engine recall campaign. The dealership successfully installed a replacement engine provided by the manufacturer. However, the dealership and Hyundai motor America are now refusing to return the vehicle to me in a functional, safe condition. Safety hazard & defect: the dealership states that the replacement engine shipped by Hyundai is mechanically and physically incompatible with the vehicle's original, factory-installed high-pressure fuel pump (hpfp). In an official written correspondence from a Hyundai motor America corporate case manager, Hyundai explicitly documented that: "dealership stated that it is not safe to drive the vehicle with old fuel pump. " despite acknowledging that the vehicle is now in an "unsafe to drive" condition due to the mismatched replacement parts provided by the manufacturer, Hyundai corporate and the dealership are refusing to complete the safety recall remedy unless I pay $1,500 out-of-pocket for a new, compatible fuel pump.

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12 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2018 Hyundai Sonata

Failure Date: 10/05/2026

What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? the paint is peeling off the car, when I went to the dealership they said this is a known problem for 2015-2018, but they can't fix it there is no recall. It is causing rust. The valve cover gasket leaks oil and caused spark plugs to blow twice. How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? the valve cover has caused my wife to be stuck on the side of the road early morning and my child to break down in another state. Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? the dealer stated both of these are known issues for these years, 2015-2018. Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others? we took the car into the dealership for inspection. Were there any warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, and when did they first appear? there was no warnings for either item.

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13 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2014 Hyundai Sonata

Failure Date: 10/05/2026

I was driving on the freeway about 100 miles outside of boise, id when the vehicle went into limp mode and a flashing check engine light came on. I had it towed to the Hyundai dealership in boise where they ran a diagnostic check and it came back with a p1326 code, which is the issue related to the engine/ball bearings. They said it passed the bearing clearance test (bct) so they updated the software and gave the car back. I picked it up a week later and while driving it from boise to salt lake city (where I live), it went into limp mode again with a flashing check engine light. This happened about 100 miles north of salt lake city. I had it towed to a dealership in murray. They indicated it passed the bct again, but they replaced the knock sensor and did an oil change and gave the car back. I picked it up, and the next day, while on the freeway, the same thing happened again. I took it back to the dealership. They indicated the knock sensors they just installed the day before needed to be updated, so they updated the software for the knock sensors. I just picked it up, and within 45 seconds of being on the freeway, it went right back into limp mode with the flashing check engine light. This has happened 4 times now, on the freeway forcing me to immediately get over, and I have almost gotten into two separate accidents because of this. Hyundai says they will not replace the engine because it keeps passing the bct. The vehicle is not safe to drive and it is likely causing irreparable damage to the other systems of the car.

14 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2016 Hyundai Sonata

Failure Date: 10/03/2026

While driving on the freeway, the check engine light started flashing and the gas pedal became useless. This put the driver and the passenger of the car in massive danger as they could no longer accelerate on the freeway. Luckily, they were able to get off the freeway without causing an accident. Upon reading the code at an auto shop, they discovered that it was p1326 or a knock sensor issue. This malfunction caused the car to go into limp mode and put the passengers in serious danger. Several calls to the Hyundai service center were made yesterday (Saturday, October 3rd). However, not one was ever answered. They hope to be able to get the car to the dealership's service center as soon as possible, but the earliest appointment online is multiple weeks away. This same car was recently at the dealership service center for an internal engine oil consumption problem and thoroughly inspected. The car is up to date on all software and recalls. Even though a valve cover replacement fixed the oil consumption issue, the owners are now having even worse issues. This is the only car for a married couple who are both working and going to college full-time. This issue has been a severe complication to their scheduling, and they were put in harm's way on the freeway.

15 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2013 Hyundai Sonata

Failure Date: 10/01/2026

2013 Sonata 2. 4 81,953 mi, seized on highway with fresh oil change 1 week prior, loss of power, steering/braking. Happened on george washington bridge (NY/NJ) with near collision. Asssited by police to move vehicle out of highway. Inspected by dealer (paramus Hyundai) and confirmed loss of power due to engine problem. Dealer denied warranty for poor maintenance despite receipt showing recent maintenance. This vehicle is covered under life warranty by Hyundai for manufacture defective engine, yet they denying engine replacement. The engine problem is a serious safety risk.

16 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2015 Hyundai Sonata

Failure Date: 09/28/2026

Am seeking assistance regarding a sudden and unexpected engine failure with my vehicle. The Sonata only had approximately 80,000 miles on it when the engine failed. Prior to this happening, I had never experienced any problems with the vehicle. There were no warning lights or other indications that there was an issue with the engine, and the vehicle had passed inspection. The engine failure happened completely out of the blue. I have also kept up with the vehicle’s maintenance, including regular oil changes. I recently replaced the battery and tires as well. Hyundai previously denied my claim, stating that the vehicle’s salvage title was the reason for the denial. However, I would like the circumstances of the engine failure and my maintenance history to be fully considered. The vehicle had relatively low mileage, was maintained, passed inspection, and showed no warning signs before the engine suddenly failed. I can provide maintenance records, receipts, inspection records, photographs, repair records, and any other documentation needed to support my claim.

17 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2023 Hyundai Sonata

Failure Date: 09/22/2026

While driving at highway speeds, the emergency brake system will apply and alert me. It’s happened twice now in the last 3 weeks. I’ve experienced a random loss of power while driving on the highway with no check engine light on the dashboard. Lastly, at lower speeds the car will randomly jerk while accelerating with no lights on the dashboard as well. I’ve gone to the dealership but they wanted to charge me a diagnostics fee to first look over the vehicle, which I don’t feel I should be on the hook for since the issue isn’t user caused.

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18 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2018 Hyundai Sonata

Failure Date: 09/21/2026

Hyundai dealership confirms I am in need of a new engine due to large oil consumption which is a known issue on 2018 Hyundai Sonata engines. Hyundai will not approve repairs because I am the second owner and vehicle is out of the 5 year warranty period. I only have 52k miles on my vehicle.

19 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2016 Hyundai Sonata

Failure Date: 09/15/2026

I am concerned that the engine may seize or stall without warning while driving, creating a risk of crash, injury, or death. The theta ii engine defect is known to cause engine seizure, stalling, and fire. Hyundai has denied warranty coverage based on mileage and second-owner status — both of which are explicitly prohibited as denial grounds under the settlement — leaving me driving an unsafe vehicle.

20 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2019 Hyundai Sonata

Failure Date: 09/10/2026

The contact owns a 2019 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated that while driving 55 mph, the check engine warning light illuminated, and the vehicle went into limp mode. The contact stated that the vehicle failed to accelerate above 58 mph. The contact retrieved dtc: p1326 (knock sensor detection system) at o'reilly auto parts and stated that the knock sensor had previously been replaced. The failure mileage was approximately 90,000.

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21 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2018 Hyundai Sonata

Failure Date: 09/09/2026

One engine valve has lost pressure and is not repairable.

22 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2015 Hyundai Sonata

Failure Date: 09/09/2026

A franchise dealership performed a federally mandated safety recall service (ecm software update) and a knock sensor replacement on this 2015 Hyundai Sonata 2. 0l turbo. To perform these specific repairs, the technician had to work directly around the intake and turbocharger assembly workspace. Immediately after picking up the vehicle, it suffered a sudden and dangerous loss of power and refused to accelerate normally on the highway, creating a severe traffic hazard. Upon an immediate emergency inspection by the same service center 5 days later, the dealership documented in writing that the turbocharger intercooler hose clamps were completely off/unfastened. Because the technician left the clamps disconnected, the turbo lost sealed pressure, failed completely, and began dumping high-pressure engine oil backward through the air filter intake box. The service center is now refusing to take responsibility for the mechanical safety failure directly caused by their technician's recall repair negligence.

23 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2020 Hyundai Sonata

Failure Date: 09/09/2026

Vehicle experienced intermittent, severe powertrain defect resulting in a critical safety hazard. Between 30k and 36k miles, the vehicle underwent 3 violent highway deceleration episodes. During these events, the engine began shaking, escalating to violent shaking; with deceleration and coming to a stop, it would shake, then sputter as if it would die. Coming to a complete stop, a total stall was prevented only by the ecm forcing a limp mode lock at 1200 rpms. When auto hold was engaged at this point and my foot was removed from the brake pedal, the mechanical surge caused the vehicle to unexpectedly lurch forward, fighting against and nearly overriding the factory auto hold braking safety feature before finally holding. Luckily, no pedestrian was walking in front of my car when this occurred. No check engine light (cel) or dashboard warning ever illuminated. This safety compromise is directly tied to an ineffective or adjacent remedy involving service campaign 9b1 (opcode 40d219r0) and safety recall 286. Under this opcode, a factory software flash deleted the standard obd-ii trouble code p0451and substituted it with a manufacturer-specific shadow code p14ee00. This software manipulation suppressed universal emission/pressure sensor faults, masking a volatile physical defect within the high pressure fuel delivery and ignition systems. Dealer diagnostics on a running, compromised engine flagged an improper fuel injector pulse and subsequently a failing cylinder 3 ignition coil. All four injectors were replaced but only one coil, leaving 3 non-updated , factory defective coils in the engine. The vehicle remains an ongoing highway stalling and brake-override hazard due to an incomplete field remedy of a recall-adjacent system. I've filed a Hyundai complaint with assigned case number 43394228 regarding safety recall 286. (two episodes of the attempted auto hold override occurred - first 09/09/2026 and second 09/29/2026. ).

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24 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2013 Hyundai Sonata

Failure Date: 09/08/2026

On September 8, 2026, while driving a 2013 Hyundai Sonata limited at highway speed, the check-engine light began flashing and the vehicle suddenly lost power. The vehicle slowed to approximately 40 mph, then approximately 20 mph, before the engine completely shut off. I had to maneuver the vehicle to the side of the highway while surrounding traffic continued traveling at highway speeds. This created a serious risk of a rear-end collision or other accident. The engine would not operate afterward and appears to have seized. The vehicle had approximately 100,000 miles at the time of the incident. There had been no clear warning of an imminent engine failure before the check-engine light began flashing and the vehicle lost power. The vehicle has not yet received a complete diagnostic inspection, so the precise cause of the failure is currently unknown. The vehicle is available for inspection upon request. No crash, fire, or injuries occurred, but the sudden and severe loss of power created an immediate safety hazard.

25 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2015 Hyundai Sonata

Failure Date: 09/04/2026

Ever since the 9c2 software update was completed on 94/26, the car is experiencing hesitations not only in the first few minutes of driving but after the engine is hot. It was driving perfectly before this update.

26 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2013 Hyundai Sonata

Failure Date: 09/04/2026

Knock sensor has detected a failure. Check engine light is flashing and the car is in limp mode.

27 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2020 Hyundai Sonata

Failure Date: 09/03/2026

The a/c evaporator core and the core seal needs replacing on 2020 Hyundai Sonata. Car is 6 years old. I already have a confirmed diagnosis with a ppm refrigerant leak tester at the condensate drain line the diagnosis is 100% confirmed. The evaporator is leaking heavily—we pulled 274 ppm at the drain tube and 177 ppm inside the cabin behind the glove box so refrigerent has been leaking out of the vents. My wife and I were getting headaches for no reason. Our ac has failed and this problem was discovered as the issue and I am paying out of pocket to fix something that should not have failed and has leaked out refrigerent.

28 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2015 Hyundai Sonata

Failure Date: 09/03/2026

"I am filing a complaint regarding severe vehicle jerking, engine surging, and rough transmission shifting immediately following the completion of Hyundai service campaign 9c2 (TSB 26-01-013h-1) on my 2015 Hyundai Sonata. The vehicle exhibits dangerous hesitation and lurching during cold starts. This behavior creates a traffic hazard when pulling out of driveways or into intersections during the first 3 minutes of operation. The manufacturer has acknowledged this cold-start defect in an internal 'drivability information' memo but has not provided a permanent remedy to repair the software logic. ".

29 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2013 Hyundai Sonata

Failure Date: 08/31/2026

I am reporting a serious engine failure involving my 2013 Hyundai Sonata. The vehicle's engine was previously inspected by a Hyundai dealership as part of a Hyundai engine recall. I followed Hyundai's instructions and brought the vehicle to the dealership for the required inspection. I was informed that the engine passed the inspection, and an orange marking was placed on the oil dipstick. The Hyundai dealership should have the service record documenting this recall inspection. Many years later, at approximately 120,000 miles, the same engine suddenly failed without warning and became locked/seized. A mechanic attempted to turn the engine and determined that it would not turn. I understand that many years had passed and the vehicle had accumulated additional mileage since the recall inspection. I am not claiming that the previous recall issue necessarily caused the current failure. However, I believe the circumstances warrant investigation because this is the same engine that had previously been inspected under a Hyundai engine recall and determined to have passed the inspection. The vehicle had been routinely maintained. Much of the routine maintenance was performed outside Hyundai dealerships by a mechanic in my family and by me, so the Hyundai dealership service history may not contain all maintenance records. I am concerned that the sudden engine seizure may represent a safety-related engine defect or may potentially be related to the previously recalled engine condition. An unexpected engine seizure can result in a sudden loss of propulsion and create a significant safety risk if it occurs while the vehicle is being driven. I am requesting that NHTSA review this complaint, including the vehicle's recall history and any related complaints or investigations involving the 2013 Hyundai Sonata, and determine whether this failure warrants further investigation. The Hyundai dealership that performed the recall inspection have documentation of that inspection.

30 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2017 Hyundai Sonata

Failure Date: 08/28/2026

I am reporting an unaddressed, critical safety defect involving the theta ii engine in my 2017 Hyundai Sonata. The engine has developed a severe internal metallic knocking noise consistent with connecting rod bearing failure—the exact manufacturing defect associated with Hyundai's major engine recall campaigns (such as recall 198 / campaign 966).

31 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2011 Hyundai Sonata

Failure Date: 08/24/2026

I had taken my Sonata to mike miller hyndia in peoria,I'll and they agreed to do the recall although they had my vehicle for two weeks. They did not service it and when I picked it up they said I had to drive it till the service engine light come on. I was driving it five days later and heard a loud noise and car started malfunctioning I was stuck in a middle of a intersection and I had to push vehicle off road. I broke my right hand in this process and I have also lost my job I am very concerned why they did not service it after they agreed too and sent me off in it in that condition . . The car is currently parked and unsure what to do with it . .

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32 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2016 Hyundai Sonata

Failure Date: 08/20/2026

The car died while going 70 on a highway with no warning signs. The car completely shut off and will not turn over or move at all.

33 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2012 Hyundai Sonata

Failure Date: 08/19/2026

On August 19, 2026, at 76,170 miles, the engine in a 2012 Hyundai Sonata GLS suddenly lost power and shut off while the vehicle was moving on gas station property. The driver had traveled approximately 10 feet before the engine stopped. Repeated attempts to restart were unsuccessful; the engine would not crank. The driver shifted into neutral and pushed the vehicle to a safe location. Before the failure, the vehicle was running smoothly, with no warning lights, warning messages, unusual noises, or other symptoms. There was no collision, injury, smoke, or fire. The sudden, unannounced loss of propulsion created a safety concern because the vehicle could no longer move under its own power. Fortunately, the driver was still on the gas station property and was not blocking traffic. An independent repair shop inspected the vehicle and confirmed that the engine was mechanically locked up. The vehicle was subsequently taken to an authorized Hyundai dealership for inspection. The dealership’s service adviser reported lower rod-bearing failure. Hyundai later denied engine-replacement coverage, citing neglect and missing maintenance records. That denial is being disputed through bbb arbitration. The vehicle had received an oil and filter change and a mechanical inspection on August 4, 2026, at 74,548 miles—15 days and 1,622 miles before the failure. The vehicle remains at the Hyundai dealership, and the engine is available for inspection upon request. The exact underlying cause of the reported bearing failure is unknown.

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34 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2015 Hyundai Sonata

Failure Date: 08/17/2026

After receiving the Hyundai service campaign 9c2 update on my 2015 Hyundai Sonata on xxx, I have started having jerky acceleration when the car is first started and am driving. Also, while driving at highway speed (~65 mph)) and I take my foot off the accelerator to coast, the engine rpm drops suddenly, anywhere from 250 rpm to 750 rpm, then recovers abruptly to where it was at prior to the drop (typically around 2000 rpm). The engine rpm also drops while driving at slower speeds and recovers but is not as noticeable as it is at highway speeds. It was not doing this prior to the service campaign. There are no check engine lights or pending codes. I brought it back to the Hyundai dealer and discussed the issue with them on xxx. They acknowledged it was likely due to the service campaign and they did not want to keep the car to look at it and said no damage was being done and it was safe to drive. They said a fix was in the works but did not know how long until it was released and I should receive information in the mail on it. Video link [xxx] information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u. S. C. 552(b)(6).

35 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2014 Hyundai Sonata

Failure Date: 08/13/2026

The vehicle suffered an abrupt, internal engine seizure while operating in active traffic at highway speeds. This sudden loss of power created an immediate crash hazard, as the vehicle decelerated rapidly in the travel lane, narrowly avoiding a rear-end collision and putting my family and other motorists at extreme risk. The vehicle was towed immediately to an authorized Hyundai dealership service center where it is currently awaiting the physical recall inspection. Prior to the complete engine failure, there were no warning lights, abnormal gauge readings, dashboard messages, or noticeable performance symptoms. The engine seized completely without warning. The vehicle has an open, uncompleted federal safety recall 162 (NHTSA campaign number: 16v729000) for this exact engine manufacturing defect and bearing failure.


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