210 of the
2,651 complaints about the 2013 Hyundai Sonata are about the
fuel system — 8% of everything
reported for this model year.
Half of the failures with a mileage on record happened before
103,000 miles.
D
210
Complaints
7
Crashes
27
Fires
6
Injuries
Exactly what failed
Fuel/Propulsion System
13363.3%
Fuel System, Gasoline
7234.3%
Fuel System, Diesel
21.0%
Fuel Pump
10.5%
Hybrid Propulsion System
10.5%
Hoses, Lines/Piping, AND Fittings
10.5%
Fuel & Propulsion across every Hyundai Sonata year
When my father was driving, the vehicle stalled out with no prior odd activity. He pulled over to the side of the road and attempted to start the vehicle. He saw smoke, opened the hood, saw flames and cleared the area of the vehicle. Due to the large Hyundai/Kia engine recall for his year of vehicle, the engine had been replaced 2-3 times and ONLY EVER been serviced by the dealership. We do not know if all recall repair work had been done, because there was also a fuel line recall which was "fixed" in 2020 and 2022.
NHTSA complaint #11751024 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Boerne, TX
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
This is a well-known and widely reported issue: 2013 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid car, which has recently experienced the following dashboard alert: "Hybrid system warning! Safely stop and do not drive." When the car is pulled over and shut down and sits for roughly 10 minutes, it starts up just fine and runs again for an undetermined amount of time, and then the alert will go off unexpectedly. This has happened twice, once the car was driven about 4 miles, and the alert came on, and the second time the alert came on as the car was started for the first time of the day. The car repair shop indicates that there are no codes saved when this happens. This is apparently a documented issue, where the codes are not saved, and difficult to diagnose by repair shops and dealers. It could lead to the vehicle completely shutting down while driving at highway speeds within traffic, which could cause a serious accident involving multiple vehicles and people. Why is this not recalled by the dealer and fixed? This has been reviewed by the dealer and by an independent repair shop. Is the NHTSA waiting for the death count to require the manufacturer to address the issue?
NHTSA complaint #11738768 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Norfolk, VACrash
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
Engine was replaced in 2023. In March 2026 there was a fuel line leak to include fuel misting near heat components. The vehicle was in a fender bender but Hyundai determined this did not cause the leak which eludes to this being a faulty installation of the engine replacement associated with the recall. I’ve reviewed my 2023 engine replacement invoice. I see the Service Kits were used to transfer parts from my old engine, but the High-Pressure Fuel Pipe (35340-2G710) is not listed. Per Hyundai's GDI service protocols and Recall 180, that pipe is a one-time-use safety component that should not be reused during an engine swap due to fire risk. Since it is leaking now, it’s clear the old pipe was reused and has failed. I'm asked for a goodwill replacement because this was a procedural error during the 2023 warranty work and was denied. This is a safety issue.
NHTSA complaint #11737231 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
National City, CA
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
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)
NHTSA complaint #11736459 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Hialeah, FLFire
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
Car engine caught fire. Allstate notified pictures provided below.
NHTSA complaint #11734019 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Port Saint Lucie, FL
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
NHTSA Recall Number22V312000 I am writing to formally file a complaint regarding my 2013 Hyundai Sonata (VIN: [XXX] ), which is subject to a manufacturer recall #189 due to a fuel line defect posing a fire risk and potential severe injury. Today, I visited Wallace Hyundai in Fort Pierce, Florida, and the service manager Mr. Louis LaRussa and associate employed what I can only describe as a warranty circumvention tactic. They repeatedly delayed my recall repair by claiming I must first complete other optional recalls, unrelated to the fuel issue. They stated that they would not be paid by the manufacturer unless all recalls were done together. This is not only unprofessional but also a disregard for the serious safety hazard posed by this fuel line defect,they prioritize dealership financial interests over customer safety and contradicts the purpose of a safety recall. Furthermore, I was told I would need to leave my car for days or even weeks because parts supposedly must be ordered. As this is a nationwide recall, I expect a swift, ready-to-implement solution. I demand immediate action from Hyundai to honor the recall and ensure my safety is prioritized. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11733349 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Phoenix, AZFire
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
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
NHTSA complaint #11728167 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 81,000 milesSnellville, GA
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Sonata. The contact’s wife stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, there was a fuel odor coming from the vehicle. There was no warning light illuminated. After inspecting the vehicle, the contact became aware that the high-pressure fuel pipe was leaking. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed, and determined that the high-pressure fuel pipe had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 81,000.
NHTSA complaint #11725335 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 170,000 milesBrooksville, FLFire1 injured
FUEL SYSTEM, DIESEL
The contact owned a 2013 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated that while the contact's son was driving at an undisclosed speed, the brake pedal was depressed, the vehicle failed to stop as intended. The contact's son noticed an unusual sound coming from the hood compartment. The contact stated that the sound was as if something was coming through the hood. The contact's son lost control of the vehicle. The contact's vehicle rolled four times before rolling into a ditch. The contact's vehicle caught on fire. The contact's son was still inside the vehicle. The contact's son exited the vehicle. The fire department arrived and extinguished the fire. The vehicle was towed to a local tow yard. The contact's son was transported by a medical helicopter to a local medical facility. The contact's son sustained a punctured left lung, seven broken ribs, a fractured right hip, and additional bruises, minor burns, and bumps. The contact was advised by the insurance company to report the failure to the NHTSA Hotline. In addition, the contact was informed of an unrepaired recall associated with the VIN, NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V312000 (Fuel System, Gasoline), which the contact was not aware of the unrepaired recall. The contact was unsure if the vehicle had been inspected by the insurance company. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 170,000.
NHTSA complaint #11724176 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Silver Spring, MD
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
My 2013 Hyundai Sonata has a replacement 2.0T Theta II engine. Recently, it developed a fuel leak that identically matches the description of Hyundai recall Recall 22-01-047H (NHTSA #22V-312). I have attached a description of my fuel leak as assesed by a Hyundai dealership alongside a .pdf of the NHTSA safety recall report to demonstrate that the issue is identical. Hyundai corporate is refusing to acknowledge that this is an identical issue and that my exact VIN group for 2013 Sonatas should be included in this recall. This issue represents a serious risk to life and property that Hyundai is refusing to officially address. They have refused to cover repairs for this issue. Additional info: my car has 124,047 miles on the odometer, but this replacement engine only has about 26,000 miles on it.
NHTSA complaint #11721724 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Hayneville, AL
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
See attached document for complaint.
NHTSA complaint #11708880 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Sandy, UT
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
I started smelling a little gas in the 20th. And on the 21st it got a lot worse so I took it to the dealership. This is the same place that replaced the engine because it failed and it was a recall. I let them know of the recall and they said it is not covered. They told me it was the high-pressure fuel line that connects to the pump. I have provided a picture of what the tech said.
NHTSA complaint #11707934 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Frisco, TX
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
My vehicle had Hyundai Safety Recall 227 (fuel tube replacement) completed on December 7, 2022. After the recall repair, the same fuel-system symptoms returned. A Hyundai dealership diagnosed failure of the high-pressure fuel pump and high-pressure fuel pipe and stated the condition was critical and a safety risk due to fuel system involvement and potential fire hazard. Hyundai Motor America declined assistance, citing vehicle age and mileage, despite this being a recurring fuel-system safety issue following a recall repair. The vehicle continues to present fuel-related safety concerns, and operating the vehicle poses a potential fire risk. In addition, the estimated repair cost exceeds $2,000, which represents a significant financial hardship for a safety-related defect that occurred after a recall repair. I am submitting this complaint due to concern for vehicle safety and the recurrence of a fuel-system defect after a manufacturer safety recall.
NHTSA complaint #11706048 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Cincinatti, OH
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
See attached document for complaint. I am reporting a safety incident involving my 2013 Hyundai Sonata Limited 2.0T (VIN# [XXX] ), which was subject to an open recall at the time of sale. On XXXXXXXXXXXXXX, the vehicle stalled and caught fire within minutes. It was declared a total loss. Two elderly passengers were in the car; one suffered breathing issues due to smoke inhalation. NHTSA records show Recall 22V312000 / Hyundai Recall #227 was issued August 31, 2022, for a defective low-pressure fuel hose that can leak and cause fires. The remedy was available before I purchased the car on April 11, 2025, but was never performed by the selling dealer, Auto Express of [XXX] . I request NHTSA investigate: 1.Why the recall was not performed prior to resale; 2.Whether Hyundai and its dealers are meeting notification and repair obligations; 3.Whether enforcement action is warranted. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11689532 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Las Vegas, NV
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
Theres a know recall for this issue. Recall 189 AND 227 for hyundai. Fuel leak right by the regulator on the hose. Mine is doing the exact thing. My motor isnt covered for some reason. Same make and model. So id like to make a complaint and make it know the exact same issue is happening STILL, 2013 hyundai sonata and they wont cover it. So if another recall could be opened to help others. I mean its the exact same issue.
NHTSA complaint #11684854 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 192,000 milesDyersburg, TN
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated that while her sister was driving at various speeds, there was an abnormal, fuel odor coming from the vehicle. Despite the odor, the contact's sister resumed normal driving operation and later refueled the vehicle. After fueling the vehicle, the fuel odor was stronger, and the tire pressure warning light was illuminated. The contact's sister pulled over to inspect the vehicle, but found no failure. The next day, upon starting the vehicle, there was smoke coming from under the hood of the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where the mechanic immediately smelled a fuel odor and later discovered a fuel leak while inspecting the vehicle. The mechanic showed the contact the fuel leak and diagnosed the vehicle with a defective fuel system. Upon investigation, the contact linked the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 18V934000 (Engine, Fuel System, Gasoline); however, the VIN was not included. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact attempted to reach the manufacturer but was unsuccessful. The failure mileage was 192,000.
NHTSA complaint #11682372 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Strawberry Plaines, TNFire
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
We were sitting in our car at a Hardees drive through when we noticed smoke coming out from under the hood. I pulled forward to a parking space and opened the hood. Flames shot up at least 6 feet. I quickly ran a short distance into the fast food place and right near the door was a fire extinguisher, which i grabbed and put the fire out with. The fire burned for about a total of 2-3 minutes, and did not do excessive damage. Coil packs and wiring harness got most of the damage. With the hood closed, you cannot even tell there was a fire. I had the car towed to Grayson Hyundai for the recall part, but then entered a claim to Hyundai. Long story short, they stalled me for over a month and then denied the claim. Citing no damage to the cam. Unlike most of the fires with this carline, my car fire was put out very quickly. The recalled fuel line/tube was not damaged much at all. You could inspect the part and see the wear on it and tell it was the culprit. It didn't take a trained mechanic to see this. After i put the fire out and it cooled, i tried starting it, and there was fuel squirting out from the recalled part. There is absolutely no doubt that the recalled part was the cause of the fire. But Hyundai has given me a denial letter that does not state the reason for denial. The Hyundai rep on the phone told me it had to do with no damage to the cam. I then asked, Thats because i got the fire out so fast right? and he said no, didn't have anything to do with it. But he lied. First of all, the cam has nothing to do with the cause of the fire. a damaged cam only happens when the fire was long lasting and severe. They should have inspected the obvious recalled part right in front of them. This denial is completely unprofessional and hints of a concerted effort to categorically deny claims. They don't usually have this much evidence, they did this time and still blew it. had i let it burn to the ground,=approved
NHTSA complaint #11676387 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Rochester, IN
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
So my car started to stall when I started it an when I started goin down the road like it wanted to die. Then I started to smell gas very strong so had a code tester put to my car an i have 6 permanent codes. An not only that im smelling oil strong an noticing big oil spots under my car. So I look under the hood an behind the turbo I see oil behind an underneath the turbo. I definitely didnt feel safe driving but now its not even drivable. I purchased it couple months ago from an individual an i cant belive the amount of problems this car has. Im a single mom an trying to support my family an its hard to now with a non running car. I've put quite a few parts hoping it would fix some of the problems an nothing has. I absolutely love the car an very beautiful but unfortunately to many problems with it. Eninge, gas leaks, timing
NHTSA complaint #11663453 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Atlanta, GA
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle inadvertently lost motive power. The contact was able to pull over to the shoulder of the roadway, where the vehicle failed to restart. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who diagnosed the vehicle with engine failure. The vehicle was not repaired. After investigating the failure, the contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 18V934000 (Engine, Fuel System, Gasoline); however, the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.
NHTSA complaint #11657974 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Irmo, SCFire
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
Unknown, caught fire. 😳
NHTSA complaint #11655836 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Washington, DC
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
On [XXX], in Washington, D.C., my 2013 Hyundai Sonata experienced sudden engine failure, leaving the vehicle inoperable. My goodwill repair request was denied within 30 minutes, without a proper inspection of the rod bearings (a known failure point covered under the TXXI extended warranty) or the fuel pipe recall—a known issue that could pose a fire hazard. Hyundai cited suspected maintenance neglect, but I have documentation of regular synthetic oil changes. Despite having over 200,000 miles, a Firestone inspection from September 2024 confirmed the vehicle was in good condition prior to the failure. Additionally, Hyundai Theta II engines are widely known to suffer from excessive oil consumption, a defect that can lead to premature engine failure even in well-maintained vehicles. Hyundai has replaced engines in vehicles with similar mileage under the same extended warranty, yet in this case, no proper inspection was conducted before denial. Safety Concerns: The fuel pipe recall was not inspected, raising concerns about whether unresolved recall defects are leading to engine failures or fire risks. The airbag clock spring, covered under Hyundai’s TXXA extended warranty, was not inspected, despite the airbag light being illuminated, potentially affecting airbag deployment in a crash. The vehicle failed without warning lights or error messages, creating an unsafe situation. Hyundai’s failure to inspect recall-related issues before denying repairs could impact other affected vehicles on the road. I request that the NHTSA: Ensure Hyundai properly inspects recall-related components before denying repairs. Investigate whether Hyundai is improperly denying warranty and recall-related repairs, even in cases where similar vehicles have received replacements. Determine if the unresolved fuel pipe recall and airbag clock spring defect pose broader safety risks. This issue has been reported to Hyundai corporate, but no proper inspection has been performed. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATIO
NHTSA complaint #11649300 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Pompano Beach, FL
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
The vehicle has begun to vibrate/shake badly but manageable. When a code reader was connected to the vehicle both codes 7E9 and 7E8 showed up. Upon researching, information has been found that these specific vehicles have been known for recalls due to fuel hose issues. If I continue to drive this vehicle without the issues being resolved which is not my fault, I jeopardize my son and I’s lives as well as any potential future passengers.
NHTSA complaint #11640507 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Wilson, OK
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
After starting, got a warning stating check hybrid braking, do not drive. When going forward, brake pedal went to floor, heard heavy grinding noise and vehicle stopped accelerating. Had to use the emergency brakes to avoid an accident. Hyundai says they can’t find a problem. Now I can’t even drive it back to the dealer! Did an internet search and many other hybrid owners have reported the same issue. I just want to have Hyundai buy the car back at this point. It only has a little over 50,000 miles on it.
NHTSA complaint #11629416 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Rancho Cucamonga, CAFire
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
2013 Hyundai Sonata engine caught on fire after being replaced TWICE.
NHTSA complaint #11624071 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Litchfield Park, AZ
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
My low pressure fuel hose has a leak. The amount of gasoline that is spraying on my spark plugs and engine is concerning. The gas fume smell coming in through the vent was horrible. After finding this leak I came to the conclusion that I am very lucky My car didn’t catch fire while I was driving. For some reason there is already a recall in place that includes my vehicle year but does not include my vehicle Vin. How do I get my vehicle included in this recall so that it can get repaired? The recall in question is NHTSA number 227 or 22V – 314. At this time, the car is sitting in my driveway and I am not inclined to move it until I know it can get repaired. At that time, I will have it towed to the dealership.
NHTSA complaint #11612142 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Ooltewah, TNFire
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
While accelerating on the highway, several warning lamps (battery, engine, others that I forget) came on. When I pulled over the hood was smoking, and a fire flared up after I opened the hood. My son and I escaped the car with no injury. Still waiting for report from insurance company.
NHTSA complaint #11596021 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Vista, CA
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated while an acquaintance was driving the vehicle at an unknown speed, the vehicle made an abnormal banging sound and the engine seized. The vehicle failed to restart and was towed to the dealer where it was diagnosed with engine seizure caused by rod bearing wear. The dealer determined that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired under NHTSA Campaign Number: 17V226000 (Engine and Engine Cooling). Additionally, the recall repair of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V312000 (Fuel System, Gasoline) was performed on the vehicle. The contact stated upon checking the engine oil level more than a year later, she noticed that there was fuel intrusion into the engine oil. The contact stated that an oil change was performed; however, the failure persisted. The vehicle was then taken to the dealer, where the contact was informed that there was significant fuel intrusion in the oil, and the dealer determined that the fuel pump needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and a case was opened; however, no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was unknown.
NHTSA complaint #11583807 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 51,803 milesHudson, MA
HYBRID PROPULSION SYSTEM
The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated that while driving approximately 60 MPH the vehicle was losing forward momentum. The contact stated that a warning message illuminated "Hybrid System Fault Stop Driving" and the check engine and battery lights illuminated as well as a warning chime sounded. The contact was able to pull off of the road and turn the vehicle off and on and regain normal vehicle functionality. The contact stated that the failure was intermittent but had become a recurring failure. The contact had taken the vehicle to a local dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that the propulsion battery needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was informed of the failure. The failure mileage was 51,803.
NHTSA complaint #11578626 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Verona, NJ
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
Car smells like it’s burning, been told it’s oil. Dealership after seeing leakage on the engine replaced the valve gasket. Car still smells like it’s burning and apparently there is no leaking. I went to the same dealership to inform them and they recommended replacing a hose but not a guarantee it will fix the overall problem which is smelling of burning. I’m concerned! I’m 37weeks pregnant and don’t want to inhale burning or any other chemicals pre and post postpartum with a newborn
NHTSA complaint #11578094 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Winston Salem, NCFire3 injured
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
Wires, reverse osmosis system unauthorized and unknown
NHTSA complaint #11573380 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.