Owners have filed 1,422 complaints
about the 2006 Hyundai Sonata with NHTSA between 2005 and 2025.
The largest single group is the airbags.
Across this model's run it ranks 5 of 32 worst.
The letter says how bad. This says what kind — whether this year drew
an unusual number of complaints, unusually dangerous
ones, or failures that arrived unusually early.
The dashed ring is 50 — the national norm. Further out is worse.
Complaint volume — 100
Against the median year of the Hyundai Sonata. 50 means typical for this
model; 100 means roughly double.
Severity — 38
7.3% of these complaints
involved a crash, fire, injury or death, against a national rate of
9.7%.
Early failure — 32
19% of failures with a mileage on record happened under
36,000 miles, against a national rate of
29%.
NHTSA files every complaint against a named sub-assembly, not just a
system. This is the difference between knowing it was "the engine" and
knowing which part of it — the list to hand a mechanic.
Frontal
4538.8%
Body
2118.1%
Sensor/Control Module
2017.2%
Rear
86.9%
Switch
76.0%
Engine
65.2%
Front
54.3%
Rotor
43.4%
When it fails
Odometer readings owners gave when they filed. About half of all
complaints include one.
Under 1,000 miles
453.8%
1,000 – 9,999 miles
494.2%
10,000 – 24,999 miles
524.4%
25,000 – 49,999 miles
15513.2%
50,000 – 74,999 miles
29625.1%
75,000 – 99,999 miles
22519.1%
100,000 – 149,999 miles
23920.3%
150,000+ miles
1169.9%
When owners complained
A spike years after the car went on sale usually means a part wearing
out on schedule across the whole fleet — the kind of pattern no single
owner can see from inside their own car.
Jul 2005peak 37Dec 2025
NHTSA investigations into the 2006 Hyundai Sonata
An investigation is the step before a recall: the agency has seen enough
complaints to look into a pattern itself. An open one means it thinks
something may be wrong and nothing has been fixed yet.
DP22003Opened 12 Sep 2022Closed 12 Dec 2023ENGINE
Loss of Motive Power
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) received a letter dated July 13, 2022, petitioning the Agency to initiate a safety defect investigation into loss of motive power allegations attributed to oil drain pan assembly failures on certain Hyundai Motor America, Inc. and Kia America, Inc. vehicles spanning Model Years (MY) 2005-2021. The Petitioners cited examples of complaints indicating that the subject vehicles were experiencing rapid loss of engine oil due to oil drain plug back outs, resulting in loss of motive power and/or catastrophic engine damage. Additional complain...
DP21003Opened 12 Nov 2021Closed 20 Jun 2023VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:THROTTLE
Throttle control system vulnerabilities
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) received a petition letter dated October 10, 2021, requesting an investigation of possible defects in the electronic throttle control (ETC) system on certain Kia vehicles resulting in the opening of DP21-003. Accordingly, Model Year (MY) 2005-2016 Kia Optima/K5, MY 2006-2015 Kia Sorento, MY 2007-2016 Hyundai Elantra, MY 2007-2016 Hyundai Santa Fe, MY 2006-2015 Hyundai Sonatas are all part of the subject population. The petition was originally filed as a Vehicle Owner Questionnaire that can b...
PE14023Opened 22 Jul 2014Closed 1 Dec 2014AIR BAGS
Seat Belt Buckle Electrical Malfunction
On July 22, 2014 the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened a preliminary evaluation to further analyze allegations of seat belt pretensioner malfunctions on model year (MY) 2006-2008 Hyundai Sonata vehicles.ODI received 131 unique reports alleging a failure within the seat belt pretensioner system, which was typically preceded by SRS light illumination.ODI requested more information from Hyundai in order to understand the nature of the failure and how the airbag deployment algorithm, the seat belt pretensioners, and/or the airbag function may be affected. In response to ODI?s informatio...
PE13007Opened 25 Mar 2013Closed 20 Aug 2013SUSPENSION:REAR
Rear Control Arm Failure
In a letter dated August 9, 2013, Hyundai-Kia America Technical Center, Inc. (Hyundai) notified NHTSA that Hyundaiis conducting a safety recall (13V-354) involving approximately 239,000 vehicles involving model year (MY) 2006 through 2010 Hyundai Sonata vehicles (approximately 215,000)produced beginning on March 1, 2005 through January 21, 2010 and model year (MY) 2006 through 2011 Hyundai Azera vehicles (approximately 24,000) produced beginning on September 27, 2005 through November 22, 2010 that are registered in and operated or originally sold in the following 20 salt belt states and the Di...
PE09003Opened 14 Jan 2009Closed 24 Apr 2009ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL
STOP LAMP SWITCH FAILURE
BY LETTER DATED APRIL 15, 2009, HYUNDAI NOTIFIED THE AGENCY THAT IT WILL CONDUCT A SAFETY RECALL (NHTSA RECALL NUMBER 09V122) TO REPLACE THE STOP LAMP SWITCHES ON MANY OF ITS MODEL YEAR 2005-2008 VEHICLES.SEE RECALL 09V122 FOR A COMPLETE LIST. THE AGENCY OPENED ITS INVESTIGATION BASED ON FIVE COMPLAINTS OF STOP LAMP FAILURE ACROSS SEVERAL 2007 HYUNDAI MODELS. THE AGENCY ALSO RECEIVED EARLY WARNING (EWR) REPORTS ON THIS ISSUE.MOST OF THOSE FAILURES WERE TRACED TO THE IMPROPER OPERATION OF THE STOP LAMP SWITCH THAT CONTROLS STOP LAMP ILLUMINATION.A MALFUNCTIONING STOP LAMP SWITCH CAN CAUSE THE V...
Recalls on the 2006 Hyundai Sonata
A complaint is one owner's allegation. A recall is the point at which
the manufacturer or a regulator agreed the defect is real and dangerous
enough to fix for free — however old the car is.
United States — NHTSA
18V026000
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP
Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2006-2011 Hyundai Azera and 2006 Hyundai Sonata vehicles. Water may enter the Anti-lock Brake (ABS) Module and result in an electrical short .
Risk: An electrical short within the ABS Module may cause an engine compartment fire, even when the car is turned off, increasing the risk of an injury.
13V354000
SUSPENSION:REAR
Hyundai is recalling certain model year 2006-2010 Sonata vehicles manufactured March 1, 2005, through January 21, 2010; and model year 2006-2011 Azera vehicles manufactured September 27, 2005, through November 22, 2010 originally sold in, or currently registered in, Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, West Virginia, Wisconsin and the District of Columbia. Road salt and water can enter portions of the rear crossmember, leading to corrosion of the crossmember steel. This may lead to detachment of one of the rear control arms.
Risk: Control arm separation may suddenly change the rear wheel alignment, affecting the handling of the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
09V280000
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
HYUNDAI IS RECALLING 3,011 MODEL YEAR 2005-2007 ELANTRA, TUCSON, SONATA, AZERA AND ACCENT VEHICLES. A MALFUNCTIONING STOP LAMP SWITCH MAY CAUSE THE BRAKE LIGHTS TO FAIL TO ILLUMINATE WHEN THE BRAKE PEDAL IS DEPRESSED OR MAY CAUSE THE BRAKE LIGHTS TO REMAIN ILLUMINATED WHEN THE BRAKE PEDAL IS RELEASED. A DEFECTIVE STOP LAMP SWITCH MAY ALSO AFFECT THE OPERATION OF THE BRAKE-TRANSMISSION SHIFT INTERLOCK FEATURE SO THE TRANSMISSION WOULD NOT BE ABLE TO BE SHIFT OUT OF THE "PARK" POSITION. IT MAY ALSO CAUSE THE ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC) MALFUNCTION LIGHT TO ILLUMINATE, AND IT MAY NOT DEACTIVATE THE CRUISE CONTROL WHEN THE BRAKE PEDAL IS DEPRESSED.
Risk: ANY OF THESE MALFUNCTIONS COULD LEAD TO A CRASH.
09V122000
EXTERIOR LIGHTING:BRAKE LIGHTS:SWITCH
HYUNDAI IS RECALLING 532,633 MY 2006-2007 ACCENT, ENTOURAGE, SONATA, MY 2007 AZERA, ELANTRA AND SANTA FE, MY 2005-2007 TUCSON AND MY 2007-2008 VERACRUZ VEHICLES. THE STOP LAMP SWITCH IN THE AFFECTED VEHICLES MAY MALFUNCTION. A MALFUNCTIONING STOP LAMP SWITCH MAY CAUSE THE BRAKE LIGHTS TO NOT ILLUMINATE WHEN THE BRAKE PEDAL IS DEPRESSED OR MAY CAUSE THE BRAKE LIGHTS TO REMAIN ILLUMINATED WHEN THE BRAKE PEDAL IS RELEASED. A STOP LAMP SWITCH MALFUNCTION MAY ALSO AFFECT THE OPERATION OF THE BRAKE-TRANSMISSION SHIFT INTERLOCK FEATURE SO THE TRANSMISSION SHIFTER WOULD NOT BE ABLE TO BE SHIFTED OUT OF THE PARK POSITION. IT MAY ALSO CAUSE THE ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC) MALFUNCTION LIGHT TO ILLUMINATE, AND IT MAY NOT DEACTIVATE THE CRUISE CONTROL WHEN THE BRAKE PEDAL IS DEPRESSED.
Risk: ANY OF THESE MALFUNCTIONS, ALONE OR IN COMBINATION, MAY LEAD TO A CRASH.
09E012000
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
SABERSPORT IS RECALLING 16,270 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.
Risk: DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
08V161000
AIR BAGS
HYUNDAI IS RECALLING 393,308 MY 2006-2008 SONATA VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH AN ADVANCED AIR BAG SYSTEM WHICH FEATURES AN OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION SYSTEM (OCS) IN THE RIGHT FRONT SEAT. THE PURPOSE OF THE OCS IS TO DISABLE THE RIGHT PASSENGER SEAT FRONT AIR BAG WHEN IT DETECTS THE PRESENCE OF A CHILD RESTRAINT SYSTEM OR SMALL CHILD IN THE RIGHT FRONT SEAT. THE RIGHT FRONT AIR BAG IS DISABLED TO PREVENT INJURIES TO A CHILD THAT MAY RESULT FROM A RIGHT FRONT AIR BAG INFLATION DURING A CRASH.
Risk: MISCLASSIFICATION OF A SMALL STATURE ADULT AS A CHILD IN THE RIGHT FRONT PASSENGER SEAT MAY CAUSE THE RIGHT FRONT AIR BAG TO NOT INFLATE IN AN ACCIDENT THAT MERITS AIR BAG DEPLOYMENT AND MAY RESULT IN INJURY TO THE RIGHT FRONT OCCUPANT.
08E021000
EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
HYUNDAI-KIA IS RECALLING 4,085 REPLACEMENT HEADLAMP ASSEMBLIES SOLD FOR USE ON 2006-2008 SONATA AND AZERA VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMP ASSEMBLIES MAY NOT HAVE BEEN ALIGNED PROPERLY AND FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE PHOTOMETRIC REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
Risk: IMPROPER AIMING OF THE HEADLAMP MAY RESULT IN POOR VISIBILITY POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
06V234000
EQUIPMENT:OTHER:LABELS
ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, THE AIR BAG WARNING LABEL INSTALLED ON THE SUNVISORS HAD LOST ADHESION TO THE SUNVISORS AND HAD DISTORTED OR SEPARATED FROM THE SUN VISORS.
Risk: IF THE LABELS ARE DISTORTED OR MISSING, THE DRIVER OR FRONT SEAT PASSENGER WILL NOT HAVE INFORMATION AVAILABLE THAT MAY HELP PROTECT THEM IN THE EVENT OF A CRASH.
Canada — Transport Canada
Canada runs its own recall programme, and its campaigns do not
always mirror the American ones.
Recall 20180333,364 units in Canada
Brakes
On certain vehicles equipped with an anti-lock brake system (ABS), the ABS module remains powered on when the vehicle is turned off. If moisture were to enter the module, over time, an electrical short could occur, which could increase the risk of an underhood fire causing injury and/or property damage. Correction: Dealers will install a relay in the vehicle’s main junction box to ensure the ABS module is powered off upon the vehicle being turned off.
Recall 201328052,317 units in Canada
Structure
On certain vehicles, road salt can corrode the rear crossmember assembly, which may ultimately lead to separation of the control arm at the mounting point. This would allow the wheel to rotate off its designed axis, and could result in a loss of vehicle control and a crash causing property damage and/or personal injury. Correction: Dealers will repair or replace the rear crossmember assembly.
Recall 200912067,976 units in Canada
Lights And Instruments
On certain vehicles, the stop lamp switch may have been incorrectly installed during vehicle assembly. This could prevent proper brake lamp operation. Failure of the brake lamps to illuminate when the brakes are applied may result in the following road users being unaware of the driver's intentions, increasing the risk of a crash causing injury or death. A malfunction of the switch may also cause the brake lamps to remain illuminated when the brake pedal is released. Additionally, a faulty switch may affect the operation of the brake-transmission shift interlock on automatic transmission-equipped vehicles so that the transmission shifter would not be able to be shifted out of PARK position. It may also cause the Electronic Stability Control (ESC) light to illuminate, and it may not deactivate the cruise control when the brake pedal is depressed. Correction: Dealers will replace the stop lamp switch assembly.
Recall 200814031,542 units in Canada
Airbag
On certain vehicles equipped with an advanced airbag system, the Occupant Classification System (OCS), installed in the right front seat of the vehicle, may misclassify a small stature adult as a child and deactivate the passenger airbag. This would cause the right front airbag to not inflate in a crash that merits airbag deployment, and may result in injury to the right front seat occupant. Correction: Dealers will verify that the OCS does not recognize a properly seated adult occupant. After verification, the right front seat cushion assembly will be removed and reprogrammed.
Recall 2006117203 units in Canada
Lights And Instruments
Certain vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of CMVSS 108. Improper dimensions of front turn signal lens mounting bosses affect lens photometric performance, causing them to fail Transport Canada compliance testing. Incorrect turn signal lens performance could reduce the vehicle's visibility to other drivers, which could cause a crash. Correction: Dealers will replace both front headlamp assemblies.
Recall 20052534,936 units in Canada
Seats And Restraints
During a government 65 km/h 40% offset frontal barrier test, the driver's seat belt may have interfered with the manual front seat back recliner knob, inadvertently releasing the seat back recliner mechanism. The release of a seat back recliner during a vehicle crash could result in injury to vehicle occupants. Correction: Dealers will replace the front seat back recliner knob with an revised part. Note: The revised part was placed into vehicle production on July 28, 2005 on four cylinder engine equipped models and on August 16, 2005 on six cylinder models.
Recall 200520570 units in Canada
Brakes
On certain vehicles, while cornering under conditions where Electronic Stability Control (ESC) activation may not be needed, a sensitive ESC may cause the engine to reduce power and the brake at one of the wheels to be applied without brake pedal application by the driver. This may cause the vehicle to slow and may affect the path that the vehicle is traveling. Brake application caused by inadvertent ESC activation may result in a crash. Correction: Dealers will reprogram the ESC Hydraulic Electronic Control Unit (HECU).
Reports where the owner recorded a crash, a fire, an injury or a death.
El Cajon, CACrash
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
On 5/30/23 while in traffic I pressed the brake to slow down and the car kept moving forward. I pressed the brake all the way down and I was still unable to stop the car from accelerating. I rear-ended the vehicle in front of me. My car is currently being inspected by a mechanic that my insurance company recommended.
NHTSA complaint #11524519 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Joplin, MOFire2 injured
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
MY SON WAS DRIVING AND HEARD LOUD POP AND SAW FLAMES COMING FROM HOOD FIRE DEPARTMENT PUT OUT FIRE CAR IS COMPLETE LOSS
NHTSA complaint #11523016 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Joplin, MOFire2 injured
ENGINE
MY SON WAS DRIVING AND HEARD LOUD POP AND SAW FLAMES COMING FROM HOOD FIRE DEPARTMENT PUT OUT FIRE CAR IS COMPLETE LOSS
NHTSA complaint #11523016 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Oxon Hill, MDFire
AIR BAGS
I financed my 2006 Hyundai Sonata from a Maryland state car dealer. At the time of my purchase, the dealer didn’t disclose to me that the vehicle had a branded title. The branded title was discovered by Toco Warranty when I requested a auto extended warranty quote. I contacted the MVA, and was informed that it’s illegal to finance a vehicle in the state of Maryland with a branded title since the actual miles are unknown and this is required by dealers in Maryland in order to finance vehicles to consumers. Although I was no longer required to make payments to the dealer, my vehicle has a ABS malfunction, brake line failure, that has caused brake fluid leakage and brake failure as well as a critical control arm needed repair. I’m disabled and on a fixed income, and purchased this vehicle to assist in getting to and from medical appointments. The total cost of repair from Mr. Tire Auto service centers estimâtes at $2700 and Triple AAA Auto repair centers estimates $ 4700 with $ 2800 to get my vehicle in safe driving condition. Because of my low fixed income, I’m unable to make another vehicle purchase without at least $4,600 for a down payment and I don’t have the money for a new purchase nor to make needed repairs.
NHTSA complaint #11473277 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 155,175 milesSAN Antonio, TXFire
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
AROUND 5:30 PM DURING THE DAY I PARKED THE VEHICLE BY THE CURB ON THE STREET WITH NO LIGHTS ON AND NOTHING LEFT PLUGGED IN. WHEN I TURNED THE CAR OFF THE WINDOWS WERE ROLLED ALL THE WAY UP AND THE SUNROOF WAS CLOSED. I LOCKED THE DOORS THEN WENT INSIDE THE APARTMENT AND ABOUT 30 MIN LATER THE NEIGHBORS INFORMED ME OF A FIRE INSIDE MY VEHICLE. I REACTED QUICKLY GRABBED A FIRE EXTINGUISHER, RAN TO THE VEHICLE UNLOCKED THE DRIVER DOOR MANUALLY WITH THE KEY AND WAS ABLE TO PUT THE FIRE OUT BEFORE IT SPREAD. THE CENTER COUNSEL AND CENTER DASH AREA WITH CONTROLS FOR THE AC, AND RADIO WERE ALL BURNED AND MELTED DOWN. AFTER THE FIRE DEPARTMENT FINALLY ARRIVED AND TOOK THEIR REPORT AND LEFT I RESEARCHED WHAT MAY HAVE BEEN THE CAUSE OF THIS INCIDENT. I LEARNED THIS IS A VERY COMMON PROBLEM AMONGST THESE PARTICULAR TYPES OF VEHICLES AND IN 2016 THE FIRST RECALL WAS ANNOUNCED. THESE VEHICLES HAVE ABS MODULES AND HYDRAULIC ELECTRONIC CONTROL UNITS THAT ALLOW MOISTURE TO ENTER CAUSING CORROSION RESULTING IN A SHORT CIRCUIT. AND BECAUSE THEY STAY ELECTRICALLY POWERED WHETHER THE VEHICLE IS ON OR OFF THESE SHORT-CIRCUITS CAN START A FIRE. HYUNDAIS NUMBER FOR THIS RECALL IS 172.
NHTSA complaint #11366323 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 155,175 milesSAN Antonio, TXFire
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
AROUND 5:30 PM DURING THE DAY I PARKED THE VEHICLE BY THE CURB ON THE STREET WITH NO LIGHTS ON AND NOTHING LEFT PLUGGED IN. WHEN I TURNED THE CAR OFF THE WINDOWS WERE ROLLED ALL THE WAY UP AND THE SUNROOF WAS CLOSED. I LOCKED THE DOORS THEN WENT INSIDE THE APARTMENT AND ABOUT 30 MIN LATER THE NEIGHBORS INFORMED ME OF A FIRE INSIDE MY VEHICLE. I REACTED QUICKLY GRABBED A FIRE EXTINGUISHER, RAN TO THE VEHICLE UNLOCKED THE DRIVER DOOR MANUALLY WITH THE KEY AND WAS ABLE TO PUT THE FIRE OUT BEFORE IT SPREAD. THE CENTER COUNSEL AND CENTER DASH AREA WITH CONTROLS FOR THE AC, AND RADIO WERE ALL BURNED AND MELTED DOWN. AFTER THE FIRE DEPARTMENT FINALLY ARRIVED AND TOOK THEIR REPORT AND LEFT I RESEARCHED WHAT MAY HAVE BEEN THE CAUSE OF THIS INCIDENT. I LEARNED THIS IS A VERY COMMON PROBLEM AMONGST THESE PARTICULAR TYPES OF VEHICLES AND IN 2016 THE FIRST RECALL WAS ANNOUNCED. THESE VEHICLES HAVE ABS MODULES AND HYDRAULIC ELECTRONIC CONTROL UNITS THAT ALLOW MOISTURE TO ENTER CAUSING CORROSION RESULTING IN A SHORT CIRCUIT. AND BECAUSE THEY STAY ELECTRICALLY POWERED WHETHER THE VEHICLE IS ON OR OFF THESE SHORT-CIRCUITS CAN START A FIRE. HYUNDAIS NUMBER FOR THIS RECALL IS 172.
NHTSA complaint #11366323 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The most recent complaints
In the owners' own words, exactly as filed with NHTSA.
at 112,000 milesHuntington, NY
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
The contact owns a 2006 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle experienced a loss of automotive power. No warning light was illuminated. The contact was able to pull over to the shoulder of the roadway and noticed that engine oil was leaking onto the ground and the coolant level was abnormally low. The contact stated that the vehicle failed to restart and was towed to a local independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed with a valve cover leak. The vehicle was repaired at the owner's expense; however, the failure reoccurred. The local dealer was not contacted. In addition, the contact stated that several other unknown repairs were made; however, the failure reoccurred. The contact related the failure to an unknown NHTSA Campaign; however, the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 112,000.
NHTSA complaint #11706449 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 112,000 milesHuntington, NY
ENGINE
The contact owns a 2006 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle experienced a loss of automotive power. No warning light was illuminated. The contact was able to pull over to the shoulder of the roadway and noticed that engine oil was leaking onto the ground and the coolant level was abnormally low. The contact stated that the vehicle failed to restart and was towed to a local independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed with a valve cover leak. The vehicle was repaired at the owner's expense; however, the failure reoccurred. The local dealer was not contacted. In addition, the contact stated that several other unknown repairs were made; however, the failure reoccurred. The contact related the failure to an unknown NHTSA Campaign; however, the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 112,000.
NHTSA complaint #11706449 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Wilton, WI
POWER TRAIN
I am filing this complaint regarding a serious engine issue with my 2006 Hyundai Sonata equipped with a 2.4L GDI engine. My vehicle experienced [engine knocking, stalling, and then seized up indicating complete Engine failure] without warning, posing a potential safety hazard while driving. The issue appears to be identical to the known manufacturing defects that Hyundai has acknowledged in its recall of 2013–2014 Sonata models with the same engine Class Type. Although my vehicle is not currently included in the official recall “ SONATA ENGINE RECALL CAMPAIGN it contains the Theta II MPI Engine which constitutes and Further solidifies proof of the ongoing Manufacturing Defects of Theta Model Engine design and exhibits the same symptoms of sudden engine failure. This raises concerns that the defect may affect a broader range of model years than Hyundai has acknowledged. I urge NHTSA to investigate this issue and determine whether the scope of the current recall should be expanded to include earlier model years such as 2006. The defect creates a significant safety risk to drivers and passengers, and Hyundai should be held accountable for all affected vehicles—not just those produced within a narrow window.
NHTSA complaint #11663025 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Wilton, WI
ENGINE
I am filing this complaint regarding a serious engine issue with my 2006 Hyundai Sonata equipped with a 2.4L GDI engine. My vehicle experienced [engine knocking, stalling, and then seized up indicating complete Engine failure] without warning, posing a potential safety hazard while driving. The issue appears to be identical to the known manufacturing defects that Hyundai has acknowledged in its recall of 2013–2014 Sonata models with the same engine Class Type. Although my vehicle is not currently included in the official recall “ SONATA ENGINE RECALL CAMPAIGN it contains the Theta II MPI Engine which constitutes and Further solidifies proof of the ongoing Manufacturing Defects of Theta Model Engine design and exhibits the same symptoms of sudden engine failure. This raises concerns that the defect may affect a broader range of model years than Hyundai has acknowledged. I urge NHTSA to investigate this issue and determine whether the scope of the current recall should be expanded to include earlier model years such as 2006. The defect creates a significant safety risk to drivers and passengers, and Hyundai should be held accountable for all affected vehicles—not just those produced within a narrow window.
NHTSA complaint #11663025 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Riverton, UT
STEERING
There is a recall for the rear lower control arms for the 2006 Hyundai sonata getting rusty and not performing. My car was taken in for an alignment and the mechanic said he isn’t able to make the toe match up to be in good driving standards. I tried reaching out to a Hyundai dealership and they checked the VIN and said they couldn’t do anything about it because my car isn’t in a certain part of the United States. If I don’t get this fixed soon the mechanic said my when could fall out of alignment and cause some serious damage to me or someone else.
NHTSA complaint #11659574 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Riverton, UT
SUSPENSION
There is a recall for the rear lower control arms for the 2006 Hyundai sonata getting rusty and not performing. My car was taken in for an alignment and the mechanic said he isn’t able to make the toe match up to be in good driving standards. I tried reaching out to a Hyundai dealership and they checked the VIN and said they couldn’t do anything about it because my car isn’t in a certain part of the United States. If I don’t get this fixed soon the mechanic said my when could fall out of alignment and cause some serious damage to me or someone else.
NHTSA complaint #11659574 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 176,000 milesMandan, ND
SUSPENSION
The contact owns a 2006 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the contact heard a loud bang and scraping sound coming from the vehicle. The ABS and check engine warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer to be diagnosed. The contact was informed that the control arm and suspension had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was made not aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 176,000.
NHTSA complaint #11617849 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 140,000 milesLas Vegas, NV
AIR BAGS
The contact owns a 2006 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the air bag warning light illuminated. The vehicle was not taken to the dealer or an independent mechanic. After investigating the failure, the contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 08V161000 (Air Bags); however, the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was notified of the failure but provided no assistance. The failure mileage was 140,000.
NHTSA complaint #11607317 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Dover, DE
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
I have a 06 sonata 2.4l that had rear control arms rotted out plus the subframe. And my esc light is on not really sure what to wit that. But my car is down now due to rear control arms needed replaced.
NHTSA complaint #11581825 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Dover, DE
SUSPENSION
I have a 06 sonata 2.4l that had rear control arms rotted out plus the subframe. And my esc light is on not really sure what to wit that. But my car is down now due to rear control arms needed replaced.
NHTSA complaint #11581825 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Dover, DE
SERVICE BRAKES
I have a 06 sonata 2.4l that had rear control arms rotted out plus the subframe. And my esc light is on not really sure what to wit that. But my car is down now due to rear control arms needed replaced.
NHTSA complaint #11581825 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 97,000 milesPoughkeepsie, NY
SUSPENSION
The contact owns a 2006 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated that while making a turn at 10-15 MPH, the contact heard a loud bang and scraping sound coming from the vehicle. The contact pulled over and discovered that the rear crossmember had detached. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic, who diagnosed that the lower and upper control arm bolts were severely corroded; however, the contact was not yet informed of what needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The vehicle had previously been repaired under NHTSA Campaign Number: 13V354000 (Suspension); however, the failure occurred. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 97,000.
NHTSA complaint #11573621 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Thornhurst, PA
SUSPENSION
Rear lower control arm snapped
NHTSA complaint #11562819 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 70,000 milesClearwater, FL
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
The contact owns a 2006 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated that while his wife was driving at an undisclosed speed, the ABS warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed that water had entered the ABS module and caused an electrical short. The contact was informed that the vehicle was included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 18V026000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic). The vehicle was not repaired. An undisclosed dealer and the manufacturer were notified of the failure and confirmed that the VIN was not included in a recall. The failure mileage was approximately 70,000. The VIN was unavailable.
NHTSA complaint #11549752 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Columbus, OH
SUSPENSION
The rear suspension became corroded and one of the coils or bars broke off while driving. After the coil from the suspension broke off, it punctured a tire, which blew while driving. Thankfully, I had just exited the interstate, otherwise this would've happened at high speeds. This is a known issue that has previously been reported in a recall (113). The vehicle is registered in Ohio and has been since 2014.
NHTSA complaint #11529847 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Crescent City, CA
SUSPENSION
UNKNOWN
NHTSA complaint #11526092 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Crescent City, CA
ENGINE
UNKNOWN
NHTSA complaint #11526092 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
El Cajon, CACrash
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
On 5/30/23 while in traffic I pressed the brake to slow down and the car kept moving forward. I pressed the brake all the way down and I was still unable to stop the car from accelerating. I rear-ended the vehicle in front of me. My car is currently being inspected by a mechanic that my insurance company recommended.
NHTSA complaint #11524519 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Joplin, MOFire2 injured
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
MY SON WAS DRIVING AND HEARD LOUD POP AND SAW FLAMES COMING FROM HOOD FIRE DEPARTMENT PUT OUT FIRE CAR IS COMPLETE LOSS
NHTSA complaint #11523016 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Joplin, MOFire2 injured
ENGINE
MY SON WAS DRIVING AND HEARD LOUD POP AND SAW FLAMES COMING FROM HOOD FIRE DEPARTMENT PUT OUT FIRE CAR IS COMPLETE LOSS
NHTSA complaint #11523016 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 48,000 milesOreland, PA
AIR BAGS
The contact owns a 2006 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated that the air bag warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic to be diagnosed. The dealer was notified of the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed nor repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 48,000.
NHTSA complaint #11520229 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 168,000 milesElgin, IL
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
The contact owns a 2006 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated that while driving into the driveway and depressing the brake pedal, the brake pedal went to the floorboard. The failure caused the vehicle to roll to a stop instead of stopping immediately. The brake failure warning light was illuminated. The contact, who is a certified mechanic, inspected the vehicle and found that the rear brake lines and the cross over line was completely rusted and there was a hole from the rust in the lines. The vehicle had not been repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 168,000.
NHTSA complaint #11510743 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Kelseyville, CA
AIR BAGS
Passenger occupant classification sensor fails to properly identify whether an adult or child is sitting in the front passenger seat causing the airbag to deploy when it shouldn't. If a child is in the front passenger seat and we get into an accident, the child could be hurt or killed by the airbag. We brought it into the Hyundai dealership after receiving a recall notice that it may fail to properly detect whether a child is in the seat or not. At the time of the recall, the dealerships instructions were to place a certain amount of weight on the seat and if the airbag was still disabled then it was determined to be working correctly. I have since been made aware of a Hyundai TSB that came out a couple of years later that stated in all cases the seat cushion was to be removed and sent back to Hyundai for recalibration. In June 2021 the airbag light came on due to a code B1448. In September 2021 I found another TSB by Hyundai stating that they have extended the warranty on the passenger OCS to 15 years, unlimited mileage. The inspection report for the B1448 was on June 7, 2021 and we purchased the car in July 2006. When I called the closest Hyundai dealership regarding the issue they said I was 2 months past the 15 year warranty and there was nothing they could do. I explained that that the code presented itself before the 15 year warranty. It upsets me that I took it in for the airbag recall and the faulty OCS was not replaced at that time. Now I'm stuck driving around a car with the airbag light on or purchase an OCS emulator to fool the system into thinking there is someone sitting in the seat. While this won't fix the problem of the airbag deploying when it shouldn't it doesn't fix the root cause of a faulty OCS mat that Hyundai is well aware of. The vehicle is available for inspection.
NHTSA complaint #11478910 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 150,000 milesRancho Mirage, CA
AIR BAGS
The contact owns a 2006 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated the air bag warning light remained illuminated. The contact also stated that the air bag warning light was related to the seat belt which was repaired before; however, the air bag light continued to remain illuminated. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 150,000.
NHTSA complaint #11476301 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Oxon Hill, MDFire
AIR BAGS
I financed my 2006 Hyundai Sonata from a Maryland state car dealer. At the time of my purchase, the dealer didn’t disclose to me that the vehicle had a branded title. The branded title was discovered by Toco Warranty when I requested a auto extended warranty quote. I contacted the MVA, and was informed that it’s illegal to finance a vehicle in the state of Maryland with a branded title since the actual miles are unknown and this is required by dealers in Maryland in order to finance vehicles to consumers. Although I was no longer required to make payments to the dealer, my vehicle has a ABS malfunction, brake line failure, that has caused brake fluid leakage and brake failure as well as a critical control arm needed repair. I’m disabled and on a fixed income, and purchased this vehicle to assist in getting to and from medical appointments. The total cost of repair from Mr. Tire Auto service centers estimâtes at $2700 and Triple AAA Auto repair centers estimates $ 4700 with $ 2800 to get my vehicle in safe driving condition. Because of my low fixed income, I’m unable to make another vehicle purchase without at least $4,600 for a down payment and I don’t have the money for a new purchase nor to make needed repairs.
NHTSA complaint #11473277 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.