Engine And Engine Cooling Problems of Hyundai Sonata - part 1

After completion of Hyundai service campaign 9c2, my 2016 Hyundai Sonata se is very difficult to drive at low rpms. Cold start its sluggish and jerks and driving uphill feels like transmission slipping but is not. An additional update to the ecm needs to be conducted ASAP.

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I went shopping notice needed gasoline filled the tank 3/4 the next day I smell gasoline on my2013 Sonata hybrid VIN [xxx] inside the car and I did not notice any light alerts etc. , just the smell of gasoline inside the car. I ask for a ride I was scare to drive to the dealer on Monday 5/6/26 around 12:30 pm I called the dealer I was gonna dropped the car they told me diagnostic would take 3 days , I was afraid to cut on fire since my gas left a big stain and was wet gasoline in the parking lot at work. , I called Hyundai USA mentioned the problem I notice there is a recall for gas pump leaking and causes gas tank to crack recall for 17v-226 for fuel pump leaking 0n Hyundai Sonatas hybrid 2011-2016 my car is in the Hyundai dealership [xxx] [xxx] they called me telling me my gas tank is cracked cost of repair labor 2800. 00 and 280. 00 diagnostic charge and is ready for pick in 30 min no recalls I must pay for this service information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u. S. C. 552(b)(6).

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The vehicle experienced repeated engine-related failures associated with the p1326 error code, which indicates a potential engine defect. The issue first occurred around February 2023 at approximately 51,500 miles, when a warning light appeared. The problem has recurred multiple times despite inspections and service attempts. In January 2024, a dealership performed a software update related to the p1326 code. Shortly after this update, the engine began consuming excessive oil (approximately 2 liters per 1,000 miles). The condition worsened over time, and the vehicle failed an oil consumption test conducted by a dealership. The issue was confirmed by an authorized dealership, which ultimately diagnosed the engine as failed and requiring replacement in may 2026 at approximately 99,000 miles. The problem has been reproducible, with the p1326 warning code appearing multiple times over the life of the vehicle. This condition creates a significant safety risk because the engine may lose power, misfire, or stall unexpectedly while driving, increasing the risk of a crash, especially at highway speeds or in traffic. The vehicle has already experienced engine misfire and severe performance issues. Warning indicators included the p1326 error code and check engine light, which first appeared in 2023 and recurred multiple times thereafter. The engine oil consumption issue developed after the 2024 service and continued to worsen. The failed engine is currently available for inspection upon request.

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The contact's son owns a 2015 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated that while the vehicle was being driven at 40-50 mph, the vehicle began to jerk. The check engine light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic who determined the failure was related to the engine. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 102,198.

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Consistent burning of oil.

P1326, rod bearing failure and seizure of motor without warning.

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Unknown.

My 2016 Hyundai Sonata is experiencing severe oil consumption due to a known Hyundai engine defect. The engine burns oil rapidly and loses more than a quart between oil changes. This creates a safety hazard because the engine can stall, seize, or fail while driving. The Hyundai dealership did not perform the official Hyundai oil-consumption test. They only checked the dipstick, noted the oil was low, and submitted a request for a paid combustion cleaning. Hyundai declined to pay for the cleaning, and the dealership is refusing to perform the required oil-consumption test unless I pay $750. 00. Hyundai corporate also refused to authorize the test, stating the vehicle is out of warranty, even though this is a known engine defect affecting many Hyundai vehicles. Without the official test, Hyundai will not review the engine defect or consider a goodwill engine replacement. This is a safety issue because the engine can fail without warning. The dealership and Hyundai are refusing to perform the required diagnostic test unless I pay $750, and refusing to review the defect without that test.

Ecm, p0303, yes, not yet, no, cel light before the car was brought to the dealership, 2019 Hyundai Sonata se, 2. 4l theta ii gdi. Perryville Hyundai IL refused applicable TSB in writing 5/4/26 despite active p0303 misfire, fuel-in-oil smell, crankcase pressure. I have photos prove falsified multi-point inspection: 1. 0 inch (. 0833') wheel well discrepancy, same mileage in/out. Vehicle has stall risk. Case manager [xxx] non-responsive 2hr 45min after requesting written tow instructions on safety matter. Rspm escalated 1:00 pm cdt 5/5/26 with 3:00 pm deadline. No contact received as of 3:03 pm. Vehicle unsafe to drive. Theta ii lifetime warranty settlement violation. Case #xxx. Requesting federal investigation. Photo upload is not working, I'll need a email to send them in apparently information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u. S. C. 552(b)(6).

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On 5/27/2026 I was driving home from work. Had just gotten off the frwy , was driving around 35-40mph, all of a sudden , engine turned off, after coming to a stop, holding up traffic, I put in park, and nothing, not crancking, a new battery was imstalled, 3 weeks prior, have recoreds of all maintenance! checked oil level was good, radiator, had fluid, and fas tank was 1/2 full! pushed to a side street ,uberd, back home, later that evening , had car towed approx 5 miles to my house. Checked all fuses, ignition, and starter! spoke with local hundai dealership, scheduled a maintenance diagnostic to be performed! could have been an accident, first time, ever experienced, such an issue!.

The contact owns a 2011 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated that while driving at 60 mph, the vehicle lost automotive power. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle failed to restart and had to be towed. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, but was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 190,000.

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Engine experienced severe metallic knocking and loss of power. A certified Hyundai technician confirmed a failed bearing clearance test (ro #354331). Hyundai motor America is refusing to honor the engine ii class action settlement warranty, citing internal code a99 because the vehicle was purchased at an auction, even though the title is clean. This pose a safety risk of engine seizure and potential fire.

The contact owned a 2013 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated that while attempting to start the vehicle, the vehicle failed to start. No warning lights were illuminated. A nearby samaritan attempted to jump-start the vehicle, however the vehicle failed to start. The contact stated that 15 minutes later, the contact attempted to start the vehicle, and the vehicle started. The o'rileys, where it was diagnosed with a failed battery. The contact was informed that the battery needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The contact stated that the following day, while attempting to start the vehicle, the vehicle failed to crank. The contact noticed smoke coming from under the hood. The contact and the contact's son exited the vehicle. The contact stated that fire came from under the hood, and the vehicle was consumed in the fire. The fire department arrived and extinguished the fire. The contact stated that it was a scary event. In addition, the contact stated that her minor son was traumatized by the event. No medical treatment was reported. The fire department inspector informed the contact that the source of the fire was not confirmed. The insurance company had not inspected the vehicle. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 170,000.

Car engine caught fire. Allstate notified pictures provided below.

While accelerating to merge into traffic, the engine suddenly lost power and died completely. I lost power steering and power brakes, making it difficult to safely maneuver the vehicle to the shoulder. There was no warning light or unusual noise prior to the stall. The vehicle has approximately 138,000 miles. This stall occurred in live traffic, creating a high risk of a rear-end collision.

Burns through oil oil will be black and barely any on the dip stick cannot make it to recommended oil change miles or date goes into limp mode.

The contact owns a 2023 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated that while his wife was driving at an undisclosed speed, the message "engine overheated" displayed. The contact checked the Hyundai app, but it showed no failure. The contact's wife drove to their son's residence, who inspected and discovered that there was no coolant in the engine. The contact's son added coolant to the engine. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who replaced the coolant valve, exhaust muffler assembly center, clamp assembly exhaust pipe, two gasket exhaust pipes, and added coolant. The contact related the failure to technical service bulletin: 23-em-009h (ehrs coolant leak repair); however, the vehicle was not covered under the TSB. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure, and a case was filed. The failure mileage was approximately 18,500.

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I have the 2015 Hyundai Sonata with the 2. 5 gdi engine that eventually will seize due to internal damaged caused by manufacture design flaws. My Hyundai threw a p0010 code which causes my car to idle high and causing low vacuum affecting my brakes. I had a diagnostic test done at a Hyundai dealership that told me it was a cvvt cam sprocket issue and that it was the beginning of the end of the engine, they quoted me 3700. 00 but the engine was to far gone and this repair would only accelerate the engine to seize. They said since the engine isn't seize Hyundai will not cover the cost to repair or exchange the engine, I contacted the Hyundai customer service who stated since the repair that is needed wasn't the root cause of the problems associated with the engine swap warranty they were not going to help me even though I explained to them that the cars high accelerating and the braking system been jeopardized and been told the engine is beyond repairs I feel Hyundai should reconsider their decision and help a loyal customer. I have purchased 12 brand new hyundaj since 2001. The customer representative was extremely un professional even suggesting I scrap my car, also I contacted my Hyundai service technician who said Hyundai customer service never contacted them about my car, when they said they spoke with the technician. Also I received an extended warranty on the 2. 4 gdi engine from Hyundai who many Hyundai customers are or have dealt with. I also purchased an extended warranty which I believe should have been extended as well thank you.

While driving my car with no warning light or any type of sound just cut off engine while driving. I was on busy highway going slightly uphill and was almost rear ended causing car behind me to swerve to avoid hitting me swerving to other lane and almost colliding into another car. I was able to get to middle divider almost but back end of my car sticking out in #2 lane. I was stuck in car for about 10 minutes then got across street to sidewalk. There was no warning, no smoke etc prior to engine cutting off. Everything still works lights, a/c, radio etc . Engine tries to turn over but then slowly dies out like a battery issue however I have a 2 year old battery and when I charge it or try to jump start it it doesn't start also everything else powers on. I have had it stall 2 times before on l. A. Freeway in which I somehow was able to cross over 4 lanes coasting to side of freeway. And at that time was sideswipped by another vehicle to front of car and car kept going and I really didn't have time to think about that while just trying to maneuver safely to side of freeway. The 1 and 2nd time it stalled it did restart after about 10 min. But this 3rd time it hasn't started again. The most recent incident was4/15/26. Another issue is the massive amounts of oil it consumes. I put in 2 quarts a week . But there is never oil leaking on driveway or anywhere its parked so where is oil going. I've had it checked several times and they said that these cars burn through oil and I also told Hyundai dealer about both issue and nothing was ever done. My s check engine came on and I took in to shop and picked it up after paying alot of money and light was off but about a week later on. Took it back and pick up and lights off running good another couple thousand again. And on and off just randomly and auto mechanic shop said I would need to take to Hyundai dealer to see whats happening. Called and told them never heard back. I have more pic of repairs but couldn't load more.

Since I have owned this car they have replaced the knock sensor twice. There is a recall on the engine for crank bearing wear, my car now is burning through 5 quarts of oil every 2 weeks with no oil leak spots on the ground. I would like them to replace the engine as per the recall. The knock sensor should be an indication of the bearings going bad. I have been getting the run around from the dealer in salem, oregon. So, I would like some assistance with this problem thank you for your time.

On April 14, 2026, my 2019 Hyundai Sonata was parked at a retail store parking lot. Returning from the store, I attempted to start the car, and it did not start. I attempted to start it again, and I saw smoke coming out from under the hood. I immediately exited the vehicle and opened the hood. I saw open flames coming out of the engine area, about 4” high. I called 911 and waited about 10 minutes for the fire department to arrive. During this time, the flames engulfed the entire engine compartment and extended vertically above the hood height. The hood eventually melted and fell back onto the engine area. The fire department came and put out the fire. The car is totaled. There were no injuries, thank god!.

Vehicle information: year/make/model: 2014 Hyundai Sonata mileage: less than 120,000 miles ownership: second owner complaint: I am filing a complaint regarding a serious engine failure in my 2014 Hyundai Sonata. My vehicle experienced issues beginning with a faulty knock sensor, which escalated into complete engine failure. This issue appears to be identical to problems that have already been identified in recalls involving similar Hyundai Sonata models. Despite experiencing the same symptoms and failure pattern, my specific VIN is not included in the recall. My vehicle has been well maintained, has under 120,000 miles, and should not have experienced a total engine failure under normal conditions. Based on the known recall issues related to engine defects and knock sensor failures, I believe my vehicle is affected by the same underlying defect. I am concerned that vehicles like mine are being excluded from the recall despite having identical safety-related issues. Engine failure while driving presents a serious safety risk, including potential loss of power, stalling, or inability to accelerate in traffic. I have had the car looked by a professional and advised of the engine failure and this is a common issue with this make and model.

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Our car is 2016 with 97000 miles with engine failure. Previous driving noticed the engine will slow down suddenly at times. Preston Hyundai dealer says bad engine cylinder $6000 is a fire hazzard and needs new engine. I see Hyundai sold 199000 2016 Sonatas and replaced 129000 bad engines. They gave a 120000 mile warranty to the 2016 cars. Hyundai said my car in not on the recall list so they will not pay for an engine. The dealer said the engine rods look okay. An engine should last longer than 97000 miles! please help! [xxx] [xxx] [xxx] my information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u. S. C. 552(b)(6).

I am reporting a serious safety issue involving a 2017 Hyundai Sonata plug-in hybrid (VIN: [xxx] ), originally purchased in California. While driving at approximately 70 mph on a highway, the vehicle suddenly lost all propulsion without warning and rapidly decelerated. This created a dangerous situation with surrounding traffic and put me and my family at risk. I had to quickly maneuver to the shoulder to avoid a potential collision. The vehicle was towed to an authorized Hyundai dealership in utah, where it was diagnosed with a failure of the high-voltage battery system. I was informed that the battery requires replacement. This type of sudden loss of propulsion at highway speed is extremely hazardous and could result in a crash, injury, or fatality. There were no prior warnings indicating an imminent failure of this severity. Given the safety risk associated with unexpected loss of propulsion, I am concerned this may represent a broader issue affecting similar vehicles. The vehicle is equipped with an interior camera, and video of the incident can be provided if needed. I respectfully request that this issue be investigated as a potential safety defect. Information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u. S. C. 552(b)(6).

*engine failure-needs a new engine car turned off while I was driving it on the freeway, I managed to steer the car to the shoulder, almost caused an extremely dangerous accident due to traffic and speed limit. *took it to a Hyundai dealership in irving, TX 3x about 3 years about excessive oil consumption, they ignored the requests for a solution. I stopped going to the dealership due to time constraints, and them not wanting to acknowledge the issue. The engine was consuming 2-3 quarts every 2 weeks. Finally the engine gave out last week. Car has around 153k miles but the issue started when the vehicle had around 100k miles . * engine oil would turn on sometimes for a short time. I had several mechanics inspect the vehicle and all would tell me that it was just oil consumption due to a known issue with Hyundai engines.

Car stopped on the road last week 4/6/26 could not start had to get towed mechanic says no oil in engine received oil change last month.

My 2019 Hyundai Sonata has been experiencing excessive oil consumption since I purchased it. The vehicle requires oil to be added approximately every two weeks, which indicates a serious internal engine issue. Recently, the check engine light turned on, and I took the vehicle to a dealership for inspection. I was told that the engine is “operating normally,” despite the ongoing oil consumption problem. I was also informed that the engine would only be replaced under warranty if it fails completely, such as through connecting rod bearing damage. This means I am expected to continue driving a vehicle that may suddenly fail without warning. I drive daily with my children, and I am concerned about the risk of sudden engine failure, loss of power, or engine seizure while driving, which could lead to a serious accident. I believe this is a known issue with these engines, and it represents a significant safety hazard that should be addressed before a catastrophic failure occurs.

Engine failed while driving, took it to dealership and the engine is seized. We were declined by Hyundai an engine replacement even though the theta 2 engines have a lifetime replacement warranty because these engines are known to fail. They constantly deny due to 'severe owner neglect' because people do their own oil changes.

Engine blown out malfunction took two dealer Hyundai folsom lake stated rings are bad sludge buildup in engine and stayed at Hyundai motor America denied engine replacement due to knowledge under theta two engine extended warranty settlement of 150,000 mi 15 years I'm still within warranty but are still being denied had numerous of issues with vehicle oil consumption knock knock sensor replace and other maintenance done since purchase vehicle brand new in 2018.

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I was driving on the interstate when my engine started shutting down on me and I’m glad I had moved to the right lane because someone would’ve hit me from the back because I never had this problem and now the mechanic telling me it jumped timing.

I am the original owner of a 2013 Hyundai Sonata (under 90k miles). In April 2026 the engine suddenly locked up without warning. The vehicle was towed to massey Hyundai (hagerstown, MD) and a claim was submitted to Hyundai motor America for an engine replacement under Hyundai’s lifetime engine warranty program for affected 2. 4l and 2. 0l theta ii engines. I provided records I could obtain. Some oil changes were performed at home by my stepfather & several were performed by a local independent garage that has since gone out of business those records are unobtainable. I explained this & submitted all existing documentation. They denied my claim twice and closed both cases. I requested the official written denial, the date it was issued, the specific reasons for the denial, and the name and department of the individual who made the decision. Hyundai refused to provide any of that information, stating they “cannot disclose the information or documentation” and that the denial is “final. ” Hyundai has not identified any specific maintenance item I allegedly neglected, nor provided any evidence supporting their claim of “exceptional maintenance neglect. ” I have completed all Hyundai recalls and maintained the vehicle responsibly. Hyundai refuses to provide transparency or to reconsider the claim despite my documentation and original-owner status, I am requesting the bureau of consumer protection investigate Hyundai motor America for possible unfair or deceptive practices related to warranty denial & lack of disclosure. I ask that your office ask Hyundai to reopen & reevaluate my warranty claim for the theta ii engine defect based on the documentation I provided & my maintenance history as the original owner provide the written denial, the date it was issued, the specific reasons for denial & the name title & department of the decision-maker produce any evidence Hyundai relied on to conclude there was “exceptional maintenance neglect Hyundai can't substantiate its denial.

Engine was replaced couple of months ago due to a recall and today 3/30/2026 I'm pulling up to my driveway getting home from work in my car starts smoking it catches on fire.

Engine died because oil wasn't changed, even though the car wasn't due for an oil change and no indicator flashed on the dashboard warning us that maintenance was needed.

The contact owns a 2016 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, there was an abnormal odor inside the vehicle, with an abnormal sound coming from the engine compartment. No warning lights were illuminated. The failure had occurred on several occasions. The vehicle was taken to a dealer to be diagnosed; however, the dealer was unable to determine the cause of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed, and determined that oil was blowing out of the top of the engine. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 37,100.

I have a car covered by the theta ii settlement. Engine, fuel system. Metal shavings found in oil and oil is diluted with fuel and oil if overfilled 1 inch above full mark on dipstick upon pickup from dealership. The vehicle is available for inspection at my residence; however, it is currently grounded as a known safety hazard. The vehicle is exhibiting symptoms of imminent engine failure (audible knocking, p0011 code, and oil dilution). Despite being shown evidence of this(photo and video of oil overfill and watery viscosity) , the manufacturer instructed me to continue operating the vehicle, placing myself, and other drivers at risk of a high-speed collision or vehicle fire. The symptoms (p0011 code and engine noise) were confirmed by an independent mechanic on March 25th 2026. However, during the official bearing clearance test (bct), the dealership intentionally overfilled the engine oil by 3 quarts (documented via photograph) to muffle mechanical noise and artificially pass the diagnostic and issued a pass on all inspections despite the oil hazard. Hyundai corporate case manager nikulmar dhabi has admitted on record that the dealer was out of compliance by "being outside the standard notification time" yet they refuse to provide a safety-compliant remedy. Warning symptoms & appearance: symptoms first appeared months ago when I repeatedly got a p0011 code, however on March 24th 2026 I received an engine light with a p0011 and the car going into limp mode while I drove. Warning signs included a persistent check engine light (p0011) and audible metallic knocking. Upon checking the oil myself after the dealer "inspected" it, I discovered the oil was 3 quarts over the "full" line, which is a deceptive practice used to mask rod bearing failure.