Wiper Problems of Hyundai Sonata - part 1

The internal core of the exhaust heat recovery system (ehrs), part of the center muffler/front pipe assembly (#28600-l5210), suffered a catastrophic failure. This allowed approximately 9 gallons of engine coolant to leak directly into the hot exhaust stream. Safety risk: this failure creates a severe visibility hazard. During acceleration from stop lights and stop signs, the vehicle emits massive, thick clouds of white glycol smoke. The smoke is so dense that it completely obscures the driver's view of trailing vehicles and prevents following drivers from seeing the roadway or my vehicle's brake lights, creating a high risk of rear-end collisions. Additionally, the rapid loss of coolant caused the engine to overheat and lose power while in motion, nearly causing a stall in active traffic. Confirmation: the failure was confirmed by the service department at washington Hyundai (invoice #174281). This is the second failure of this specific component (previously failed in Jan 2025). The manufacturer issued TSB 23-em-009h for this defect, acknowledging it affects 2020-2023 Sonata hybrids, but no safety recall has been issued. Symptoms: the issue was preceded by a "sweet" burning smell and a sudden "engine overheating" warning on the dashboard. The failed component has been replaced by the dealer, but the manufacturer refused to replace the coolant-poisoned oxygen (O2) sensors, leaving the vehicle in a technically compromised state. The failed unit is likely held by the dealer for warranty parts return.

See all problems of the 2021 Hyundai Sonata 🔎.

I am reporting a re-failure of safety recall 152. The panoramic sunroof wind deflector, which was previously 'repaired' in 2017 under this recall, has failed again. The broken parts have jammed the sunroof mechanism, preventing it from closing. According to NHTSA recall 152, this failure poses a severe safety risk as the sunroof glass can detach from the vehicle while driving. The vehicle has only 55,000 miles. Hyundai has currently refused to honor the recall remedy because the 10-year warranty expired 3 months ago, but a safety recall remedy must be permanent and effective.

See all problems of the 2015 Hyundai Sonata 🔎.

Safety concern — damage to windshield during manufacturer recall repair (z05) my vehicle was brought to an authorized Hyundai dealership on January 14, 2026 for a manufacturer-directed paint recall repair (campaign z05), which required removal and reinstallation of the windshield as part of the procedure. The repair was originally expected to be completed between January 14 and January 28, 2026. However, I received no explanation for the delay during that period. On February 13, 2026 — nearly one month after check-in — I was informed for the first time that the windshield had cracked during the reinstallation process while the vehicle was in the dealership’s custody. As of March 18, 2026, the windshield has not been replaced, and the vehicle remains at the dealership without this safety-critical component restored. Because the windshield is a structural element essential to roof strength, airbag deployment performance, and overall crash integrity, the prolonged failure to properly restore it raises serious safety concerns. The unresolved condition of this component creates uncertainty regarding the vehicle’s crashworthiness and may expose occupants to significant risk of injury in the event of a collision. Damage occurred during a manufacturer-mandated recall repair while the vehicle was under the exclusive control of an authorized service provider, and the vehicle has not been returned to a safe, operable condition for an extended period. This situation raises broader concerns regarding the handling of safety-critical components during recall procedures and the timely restoration of vehicles to safe operating condition. This matter is also currently under review by the arkansas motor vehicle commission (amvc), case #26-009, due to the prolonged inability to restore the vehicle to a safe condition. I am submitting this complaint in the interest of vehicle safety oversight and to help prevent similar situations from affecting other consumers.

See all problems of the 2019 Hyundai Sonata 🔎.

My windshield cracked with no discernable impact or reason. The windshields for the vehicle are too thin for use on a highway and crack too easily. This puts my safety and the safety of others at risk, as well as affecting safety mechanisms related to or mounted to the windshield. It has been replicated by myself as it's happened twice in the last 4 months of owning the car. The first windshield was replaced by my dealer at laird noller in topeka.

See all problems of the 2022 Hyundai Sonata 🔎.

The ehrs coolant system failed and had a leak causing the coolant to be excessively burned off as thick white smoke. This caused me to not be able to see anything behind me and forced others to stop or slow down dramatically to avoid colliding with me. I had my engine overheat and force me to pull over on the side of an unsafe road because the exhaust system burned off my entire tank of coolant in less than a mile. I have taken this to a Hyundai dealership and they confirmed it was the ehrs system failure and told me it was a fairly known issue with the 2020-2023 Sonata hybrids. I was told that even if I get it replaced the possibility of having it happen again are pretty high. This seems extremely unsafe to myself and others.

I respectfully submit the following additional information. In connection with this matter, the dealer in question asserted in writing that I "should have refused to participate" in the manufacturer-authorized "z05 service campaign"—a measure designed to prevent potential damage—and characterized the program as nothing more than "free paint work. " service campaigns administered by manufacturers are conducted within the framework of federal safety regulations pursuant to title 49, chapter 301 of the u. S. Code; they are neither optional nor merely cosmetic in nature. Rather, they constitute systematic procedures intended to preserve vehicle integrity and support public safety. Statements suggesting that consumers should decline participation in such campaigns—or that they may bear financial responsibility for damage incurred during their execution—raise concerns regarding how these federally supervised programs are communicated and implemented and may discourage participation and undermine public confidence in the national vehicle safety campaign system. Although the dealership subsequently offered to replace the windshield at no cost, I have not received confirmation that the repair has been completed. This offer was made only after the vehicle remained at the facility for an extended period, during which I was repeatedly placed under pressure to assume financial responsibility for damage that occurred while the vehicle was under dealership custody. I was presented with two conditional options; however, in either scenario, I would ultimately be required to accept financial responsibility for the outcome. Ultimately, I was required to assume financial responsibility for issues arising during the work. On 2/23, I was told the loaner could be reported as "stolen," and I returned it immediately. After returning the vehicle, no alternative transportation was provided while my own vehicle remained unrepaired.

The vehicle's hvac (heating) system failed. It stopped producing heat on one side of the vehicle. My mechanic/dealer diagnosed the issue as a broken component within the hvac case under the dashboard, requiring full dashboard removal and a repair estimated at over $3,000. This failure prevents the defroster from working properly, which is a major safety hazard as it cannot clear fog or frost from the windshield. A search of online forums and owner communities shows this is a widespread complaint from many other Hyundai owners, often identified as a failed blend door or blend door actuator, which requires the same expensive dashboard removal to repair.

Wiring harness under fuse box is not making a consistent connection and is causing the blower amp to overheat and disconnect. When this happen, cabin air doesn’t blow and the front and rear defrost stops working. The only way to make the blower engage is by removing the fuse box cover and tapping the 30 amp fuse things. I’ve taken my car to the dealership for this specific problem 5 separate times, and it was supposed to be corrected. Due to this poor connection, I am now about $1200 into repairs / replacing parts that aren’t the root cause. I am not taking my car back to the dealership for a 6th time to have it “fixed” but the service guy looked me in the face and said “you should trade it. We see this issue all the time in Sonatas and elantras. It won’t be fixed”. I’ve replaced the blower motor, had the freon charged, this is one of the vehicles with the exploding gas tank, and I’ve already paid to replace gaskets.

See all problems of the 2020 Hyundai Sonata 🔎.

Engine does not reach normal operating temperature, possibly failed thermostat. Front window does not defrost properly and ices up while driving for 10 minutes after warming up for 15 minutes.

See all problems of the 2017 Hyundai Sonata 🔎.

I am experiencing an electrical malfunction with the driver-side door controls and side mirrors on my 2022 Hyundai Sonata limited. The buttons on the driver’s door panel intermittently stop responding, and the lights on the panel flicker. At the same time, the side mirrors move up and down randomly, without any input from me. This issue occurs while the vehicle is both stationary and in motion. This malfunction affects the visibility and safe operation of the vehicle, as it can disrupt mirror adjustments while driving. I am concerned that this could be a potential safety hazard, especially at night or in high-traffic situations. I have researched online and found that other Hyundai owners have reported similar electrical issues with door controls and mirrors in recent models. I would like the NHTSA to investigate whether this is a widespread issue and determine if Hyundai needs to issue a recall or a technical service bulletin (TSB) to address this safety concern.

The contact owns a 2022 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated that while operating the vehicle in freezing weather conditions, the front windshield wiper fluid would not properly spray onto the front window and the window could not be cleaned, creating a visibility hazard for the driver. The contact indicated that the failure was present on both the front driver and passenger-side windshield wipers. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer and local dealer were not yet contacted regarding the failure. The failure mileage was 400.

Windshield wiper motor started to operate slowly and at times stops with wiper blades in middle of windshield.

Fractured windshield from rock strike. Not Hyundai responsiblity. 2 1/2 feet from mirror thru driver view. Issue safelite does not have aftermarket glass. Car is 5 months old. Hyundai says they have zero replacement glass in united states. I can order ($1500), and wait appx 2-3 months. It is illegal both in CA where I reside and federally to drive with fractured windshield. How is it that auto manufacturers are able to not keep safety items reasonably in stock? covid is long over, I’m tired of hearing “supply chain” excuse. A brief online review shows kia/Hyundai has had windscreen issues ongoing for years. I’m not even certain that all of my mirror resident safety features are working properly.

See all problems of the 2024 Hyundai Sonata 🔎.

The vehicle, after parking, is nonresponsive to the key fob, nor will it start. This can happen at anytime and anywhere. Dealer said "it is possible the integrated 12v battery into the hybrid battery may be faulty. No codes or tests can confirm the issue. The dealer said the key fobs tested ok. " my wife works late at night in a dark area, this has happened 2 times at her place of work and we are concerned for her safety as she has to wait outside for a tow truck to tow it to the dealer. The first 3 times it occured, this issue started around March of 2024, and repeated every 30-45 days. Now it has happened 2 more times in the last week. No warning lamps or indications of problems. The windshield has distortion within the glass and is not a clear view. It is as though you are looking through the heat of a jet engine trying to focus on what is on the other side. This is a major distraction while driving, reading the heads up display in the car, reading street signs and general navigation of pedestrian and other vehicle traffic. There is no aftermarket film or materials on the windshield. The door handle on the drivers side has a cover plate over the hole where a manual key could be inserted. As a construction worker I have very strong hands and I have a difficult time removing the cover plate. The last time I removed the plate I cut my hand on the interior part of the handle as the cover plate popped off. That is how hard the plate is to remove. My wife cannot remove the cover plate on her own. This system is in place for the manual use of the hidden key inside the key fob to be able to open the door in the event of a power failure of the vehicle. Which has now happened randomly 5 times.

Sunroof burst while driving on freeway at a low speed due to heavy traffic. There were no overpasses or bridges above the vehicle when explosion was heard. No point of impact on sunroof from possible rocks and glass is shattered but in one piece and it appears to have burst outwards as it’s bowing upwards. Sunroof had rarely ever been used prior to this and vehicle is only 1 year old. Only some tiny pieces of glass came off initially, but headliner collected them instead of landing on driver/passenger while driving.

See all problems of the 2023 Hyundai Sonata 🔎.

Both rear view mirrors on the doors have quit working cannot adjust them. Apporx. Mileage 86000 miles.

See all problems of the 2016 Hyundai Sonata 🔎.

The driver side mirror control will not move the mirror left to right. The button will only move the mirror up and down.

Sunroof shattered/exploded for no known reason while driving. Resulted in glass falling towards cabin of vehicle as well as loud bang.

Improperly seated strip fuse high resistance connection on the ig-2 40amp blower motor fuse receptacle causing melting of plastic fuse box components and ultimately failure of blower motor circuit and potentially loss of other circuits. Loss of blower motor leads to loss of cabin hvac as well as loss of front windshield defrost ability during adverse driving conditions. Not only does this pose a potential electrical fire hazard, but a safety hazard due to inability to clear windshield from loss of defrost feature. Brief research finds this to be a very common problem with these vehicles. Manufacturer's recommendation is complete replacement of engine bay wiring harness. Problem begins as intermittent, but leads to total circuit failure over time if not identified.

Defrost doesn’t work because harness melted and blew a fuse.

My car barely has 11,000 miles and just the other day it had about 20miles left of gas but as I was driving on the road it started to feel and seem like it was about to die on me, also the front wipers are not well restrained with the vehicle you can tell by the way it moves when wipers are on. . . . Also most of the signals be it if something is in front of me and the signal goes off but theres nothing there . . . Also when im backing up sometimes the car itself will force stop as if something is in the way . . . But again nothing is there at all . . . It happens every few days . . . . I just purchased this car . . And really thinking it was worst mistake w all these issues already.

Seatbelt stopped locking on drivers side, not able to use and wipers now only work on high.

See all problems of the 2012 Hyundai Sonata 🔎.

Front sunroof panel exploded toward while the car was running, but in the driveway in park. Safety was compromised by the shattered tempered glass falling into the car. Problem was noted at the dealer, who stated they had not seen this happen before and believed it to be from a rock chip. Roof has been inspected by the service department at the dealer, and pictures taken by them and by me. It has been reported to the manufacturer. Problems noted prior to the “explosion”. Sitting in my car on a cold 27f morning, I started the car and turned on the front and rear defrosters and the heater. There was a light dusting of frost on the car. About a minute after I started the car, I heard a loud bang above me. When I opened the sunroof cover to see what the noise was, tempered glass shards fell in on me. When I got out of the car to see what had happened, the roof appeared to be exploded outward in circle about 10” across, although most of the sunroof glass was “crazed”. The car was not moving, had not had time to get warm, inside, there was no tree or other environmental hazard close to drop on the roof.

Passenger side sun visor suddenly rotated down and will not stay up. This blocks drivers view. A few weeks prior to total failure, the visor would not stay completely up but was only about 10 degrees down. There is a plastic tube with a metal tube inside which the visor pivots on. The plastic tube is broken allowing it to hang straight down. If/when the same breakage occurs on the drivers side it could cause an accident due to blocking vision.

See all problems of the 2008 Hyundai Sonata 🔎.

Paint peeled off hood, initially causing a distraction while driving, while it fluttered, then when departing the hood it stuck to the windshield causing a visibility issue before using the wipers to remove it. Dealer said it's a known issue with this paint color, but said the warranty period was over.

The sunroof detached from the vehicle at highway speed. The sunroof was not open or otherwise in operation when it detached. A mechanic concluded that the adhesive holding the glass to the sun roof assembly failed. The sunroof assembly was completely intact after the incident and did not appear to be damaged.

See all problems of the 2009 Hyundai Sonata 🔎.

I was driving on I 205 n (portland, or), at a speed of around 65 mph, when I hear a loud pop. Wasn't sure what happened, and first thing I thought was that somebody fired at my car. . . I realized that the air entering the car was coming from the sunroof area, and hearing the sound of shattered glass moving on the piece of material that separates the sunroof from the interior I realized that the problem comes from there. So I got out at the next exit, stopped in a winco parking lot and started assessing the damage and cleaning/ vacuuming the glass.

Recall on my vehicle states there is still no remedy after one month.

2021 Sonata n line not equipped with auto wipers wipers intermittently come on by itself while driving. It has come on multiple times when using my turn signal. Wipes once then goes off. Has also come on once without the use of the turn signal. Swiped 3 to 4 times and then went off.

The driver side sun visor on my 2008 Hyundai Sonata is defective. The visor will not stay up and hangs down obstructing the drivers vision. This is a serious safety issue! this seems to be an issue on many 2008 Hyundai Sonatas the only recall is for 2006-2007. Yet this dangerous issue is happening on other years. Please resolve this.

On a dark or dimly lit road the low beam headlights create a sharp boundary looking through the windshield with headlight illumination on the lower area and darkness on two thirds down from the top of the viewing area. It is as if the windshield has a line horizontally across it two thirds down in the field of view. The line bounces when the car bounces and dark upper portion can not be properly viewed through to see the road ahead. It is a safety issue due to poor visibility. The dealer has said a few times there is no issue and no reported issue. All they could do was adjust the headlights an inch. It didn't help. I don't drive it at night unless I have no choice and only very short distance. It got much worse recently. I won't sell this car to anyone, its not safe.

The contact owns a 2020 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated while driving 60 mph, the vehicle abruptly decelerated to 30 mph. The contact also stated that previously the windshield wipers failed and the driver’s side window failed to roll all the way up. The vehicle was towed to the dealer to be diagnosed. The mechanic was unable to retrieve a diagnostic trouble code. The contact stated that the dealer could repair the driver’s side window and windshield wipers. The manufacturer was contacted and informed of the failure. The failure mileage was 16,000.

While commuting to work on a rainy evening, the wiper blade appeared suddenly to become loose and quickly became fully detached due to the motion of my windshield wipers. It was flung from my car and could not be retrieved. The replacement wiper blades (driver and passenger side) were attached by a licensed mechanic, and they both seemed to function properly after installation until the failure occurred. The passenger side wiper blade remained connected. It had been replaced simultaneously along with the driver side blade; therefore they each sustained the same wear and relative minimal usage following their application before the critical incident. It was disturbing to have a piece of equipment necessary for the safe operation of a vehicle suddenly fail while the car was in motion, and during rainy weather conditions. There was no reason to suspect this would occur. I am hoping that reports such as this will help to put an appropriate degree of pressure on private companies to ensure they are selling products which are dependable rather than which compromise the integrity of valuable property and personal safety. The images I am including merely provide evidence of the product's purchase and support my claim of the failure. The photos of my windshield were taken upon reentering my vehicle after my overnight work shift. They show a faint line devoid of condensation, created by the bare metal windshield wiper having scraped against my windshield after the blade was disconnected.

Passenger side windshield wiper works when it want to work.

See all problems of the 2018 Hyundai Sonata 🔎.

On April 5, 2021 at about 7am. I was driving my daughter's 2012 Hyundai Sonata limited edition with a panorama sunroof to a casino call cache creek casino in California. I was driving and she was the passenger that morning. I was going around 70 mph on interstate 80, eastbound when all of sudden the center sunroof exploded and glass flew everywhere. It sounded like someone shot a gun at us and we almost lost control and barely avoided a major collision with the vehicle in next to us. We pulled of the next exit in hercules,CA. To the first gas station we saw. I call the California highway patrol so they could come and make out a report. It really scared us ,because it sounded like someone shot at us with a shotgun. ,,,,,,,,,,,.