80 of the 1,080 complaints about the 2014 Hyundai Sonata are about the other systems — 7% of everything reported for this model year. Half of the failures with a mileage on record happened before 77,500 miles.
80
Complaints
3
Crashes
4
Fires
0
Injuries
Filed with NHTSA, in their own words.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
I was driving my 2014 hyundai sonata that I only had for 3 months when it just quit on me. I pulled over and seen when white smoke was coming from the wires.
NHTSA complaint #11747161 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
I was driving my vehicle on multiple occasions in which the car started to alarm and say, "Check charging system" at which point the car stopped all together. Also, when the cruise control is engaged, it will turn off automatically. It doesn't matter the speed the cruise control is set at, it will turn off.
NHTSA complaint #11735260 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
1. Dash Board has several cracks especially over airbag. 2.The location and severity of the cracks raises concerns regarding the structural integrity of the dashboard during a collision and the potential for obstructed airbag deployment. 3.It has not been inspected. I plan to carry it to the dealer tomorrow. 4.There were no warnings. I just realized the cracks a few weeks ago. I had seen them prior but thought they were part of the design until they became more pronounced.
NHTSA complaint #11727822 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
I had recall 162 - engine replacement completed in 2024 , now I have fuel leak at high pressure fuel pump, the pump that is a component of the engine has now failed which was installed during the engine replacement which can cause a major fire
NHTSA complaint #11713805 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
I was driving my 2014 Hyundai Sonata in a rural area when smoke suddenly entered the cabin from the engine compartment. Two bystanders waved me down, alerting me that they could see fire underneath the engine compartment. I immediately stopped the vehicle, turned it off, and exited safely. I attempted to contact 911, but reception was poor. The fire spread from the engine compartment and engulfed the vehicle, producing thick smoke that created a serious safety risk. Emergency services arrived approximately 15 minutes after being notified and extinguished the fire. The vehicle burned for approximately 30 minutes in total resulting in total loss. There were no warning lights or messages prior to the fire. The vehicle has not yet been inspected by the manufacturer, police, or insurance representatives beyond the fire report. It was towed and is being stored on private property awaiting investigation.
NHTSA complaint #11707840 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
My car has had excessive oil consumption for over a year. Hyundai looked at it. Did something to fix it for a couple months and now it’s back worse then ever and they don’t want to do anything about it.
NHTSA complaint #11690979 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Formal Complaint – Hybrid System Failure, Safety Risk (VIN: [XXX] | Hyundai Case #[XXX]) Dear Sir/Madam, I am writing to file a formal safety complaint regarding a dangerous incident involving my Hyundai hybrid vehicle (VIN: [XXX] ) and Hyundai Motor America's failure to respond meaningfully to repeated requests for assistance. Incident Summary: On [XXX], while driving with my two young children (ages [XXX] and [XXX] ), my vehicle suddenly displayed the following critical warnings: “Hybrid System Warning! Safely Stop and Do Not Drive” “Check Charging System” Immediately after these messages appeared, the car lost all power and came to a complete stop in the middle of the road. This created an extremely hazardous and distressing situation for me and my family. Although the vehicle is a few years old, it has very low mileage (38,345 miles), and I did not expect such a catastrophic failure. I submitted a report to Hyundai Customer Support on May 30, 2025 (Case #[XXX]) and followed up on June 9, 2025, but have only received an automated acknowledgment—no response, investigation, or support to date. Attachments: A video clip showing the warning messages at the time of the incident (I cannot upload the video clip since the option is not there, but I do have it if required) Requested Actions: A formal investigation into the safety and reliability of Hyundai's hybrid systems. A determination as to whether this incident qualifies under Hyundai’s warranty or federal safety defect regulations. Immediate contact from Hyundai with the next steps regarding inspection, resolution, or compensation. I am cc’ing Hyundai Motor America to ensure this matter is escalated appropriately and receives the attention it warrants. Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to your timely response. Sincerely, [XXX] [XXX] [XXX] [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11666942 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Car transmission replaced with only 38,000 miles. Car shutters, skip gears, loss of power. Very dangerous especially when pulling out from side road on to main road. Transmission problem starts out as intermittent at first, so you never know when it will happen next. Lots of near misses where I would have been rear ended, due to shifting problems. New Transmission is already starting to shift erratically at times with only 2,000 miles on new rebuilt trans. Cost of repair is 5 to 6,000. Also own 2012 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid with the same exact transmission problems. Transmission replaced at 67,000 and now at repair shop for replacement Trans at 124,000 miles. Vin [XXX] . Both of these cars are dangerous to drive. These problems start out intermittently, and if the dealership cannot duplicate the problem, they will not fix anything, hoping to string you along past the warranty period. I tell them to check the fault code history and they tell me that they did not find any error codes. Both these cars also have the defective engine too- but so far my engines are working correctly. Invoices can be provided if needed. Found research shows that there are transmission problems with almost all generations of the Sonata's especially my 2 years - 2012 and 2014. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11657892 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
I am having an issue with the driver's front airbag clock spring assembly in my 2014 Hyundai Sonata. I see that there is a recall on the 2011-2014 Elantra vehicles, 2011-2013 Sonata vehicles, and 2011-2014 Sonata Hybrid vehicles for up to 15 years, but my 2014 Sonata is having the same issue. My car is not a hybrid, but what do I need to do in order to get this covered? Everything that the recall is describing is going on with my vehicle. The airbag light stays on, a non-functional horn, and/or inoperative steering wheel controls, the steering column makes a noise when turned.
NHTSA complaint #11653408 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
My family purchased the vehicle as a gift to me in 2018. It had 17,000 miles on it and was previously owned by an older woman who hardly used it, according to the salesman at North Freeway Hyundai in Spring, TX. In 2019, the AC compressor failed in the middle of summer. In Texas, being in a car with no AC in the summertime can and has been deadly. I had the part replaced at the same dealership as mentioned above. The part began to fail again at the end of 2024. When doing research on the issue, it came to my attention that this is a known issue pertaining to my vehicle, and that Hyundai is aware. Again, particularly in the south, this IS a safety hazard. Hyundai confirms that a couple different issues with the car can cause a “premature failure” of the compressor. I’ve replaced it once before and it’s incredibly expensive, and I don’t think it should already be failing again, and it sounds like Hyundai agrees with me. The logical thing to do here is to issue a recall on the part, which would allow myself and others with this issue to get it fixed at no cost. I can’t afford a major repair like this, as I just recently replaced the catalytic converter and o2 sensors as well. This cost should not be placed on the consumer when Hyundai is seemingly aware there is an issue.
NHTSA complaint #11646124 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Unknown
NHTSA complaint #11634472 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
I was driving the car to take to emissions because the car was recently purchased and as I was driving the car turned off and doesn’t turn back on.
NHTSA complaint #11629153 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
The vehicle suddenly spiked in RPMs, and suffered from a rattling noise. The following day after taking it to a known skilled service location, they advised to contact the dealership due to two open recalls. They found zero oil in the vehicle as well as issues with the valve seals. They then put the blame on the customer and did not acknowledge the engine recall that states clear problems with oil and engine valves resulting in a loss of oil and a failure in monitoring systems. At no time did the oil light show on the dash and there was no oil in the driveway where the vehicle has been parked. They advised us to contact the company for assistance. After doing so, the dealership, and Hyundai themselves have refused to acknowledge the engine issues or repair the car under the two known open recalls. We have spoke with reps from both the dealership and the company an have received no assistance in reclaiming confidence in the vehicle or Hyundai as a whole. This happened in September 2024 and there is no resolution in sight here in December. How a customer can be expected to repair at their own cost during a known recall with a class action lawsuit is ludicrous.
NHTSA complaint #11629097 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
The entire dashboard is cracking and has caused the airbag light warning light to come on, due to the compromised dashboard. This makes me feel unsafe because I'm not sure if the airbag will launch prematurely. I see online that many Hyundai owners have experienced this same issue and have the same concerns.
NHTSA complaint #11622460 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Extremely rough idle when stopped. Trying to accelerate to merge into traffic the my. Car had no power and I almost got creamed ! I had to pull over so other cars could go around me. Several other issues with car like oil every month or so. I had gas pouring from a hose on my engine and when I brought it to dealership they wanted 1100.00 knowing it was a recall. I hope the dealership and Hyundai rot. !
NHTSA complaint #11607720 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
I was driving at approx 30mph and all of a sudden I get a warning on my dashboard that says "Hybrid System Warning - Check brakes- safely stop and do not drive". My car slowed down and the brakes went to the floor. I was able to coast it to the side and turn off my car. I waited a few minutes, turned it back on and it was fine. The same thing happened 3 months ago. I took it to the dealer the first time it happened and they replaced the 12v battery and cleared all the codes. They couldn't find out exactly what was wrong. Suggestion was if it continues, then replace the hydraulic module for over $5k. It did happen again, but didn't take it to the dealer, but to a local mechanic. They checked the brakes and are fine. The codes were the same and said it might be the Hydraulic Booster High Pressure Accumulator (HPA). I was reading the Hyundai forum and this seems to happen to many Hyundai hybrids. I'm concerned for my safety and the safety of others if I was driving on the freeway and the same thing happens. There's no advance warning. I could cause an accident because of it. Seems that Hyundai needs to issue a recall on the hydraulic module and replace it.
NHTSA complaint #11606010 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
I was driving the car and suddenly it started showing ‘hybrid malfunction do not drive’ It doesn’t go over 40km/hr. The Hyundai dealership wants me to trade it in. It’s only been 2.5 years that I have this car. Mechanics couldn’t figure out the solution
NHTSA complaint #11597971 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
The brake lights fail with no warning. Bulb replacement used to work. Since ownership at +70,000 miles, I have had to replace one or both of the tail light sections as they melted. The lighting harness has been changed multiple times. In January 2024 Hyundai issued a warranty extension to 15years/200,000miles. There is no date on the letter. When I tried to get my car serviced there were charges for testing to ensure that this was the problem and it was difficult to find someone to service the car in a timely manner. The police continue to issue me tickets for no rear brake lights. The Dealer who finally serviced the car indicated that the Warranty was Void as the replacement parts were not Hyundai parts. Servicing the car was well after the original warranty was already over, so why would you worry about warranty claims for original parts. They claim that they cannot diagnosis the problem without original parts. Hyundai Corporate Customer Service was no help in this matter, but they did apologize for the problem. Can't drive a car without tail lights and paying 850 for the repair is one month of my disability check.
NHTSA complaint #11589230 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
[XXX] While driving down [XXX] into Kansas City Kansas all of the sudden there was a loud explosion, sounded like a gun shot. Then we heard the air coming in the sunroof/moonroof. Nothing hit us it just exploded! INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11586416 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
I was driving my 2014 Hyundai Sonata, with my 3 year old twins in the car. The car would not accelerate properly. All the lights came on on the dashboard. I pulled over. It was just smoking then caught fire.
NHTSA complaint #11585291 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
I was driving on the freeway when the check engine turned on and was blinking. I pulled off the roadway as flames began coming from the hood of the car. The car became completely engulfed in flames within minutes. It was a total loss in a matter of 15-20 minutes.
NHTSA complaint #11581826 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
The two struts that hold the engine hood in the upright position fail abruptly without warning causing the hood to randomly slam shut that can result in a traumatic brain injury, amputation, etc. that may result in an injury or death. Some other vehicles with engine hoods that are held up by two struts have a metal prop to ensure the hood is held in the upright position in the event the hood struts fail. This safety issue put me at risk as I narrowly avoided severe injury and potential amputation of my hand and/or fingers when the hood randomly slammed down. This problem has not yet been confirmed by a dealership or independent service. This vehicle component has not yet been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others. There were no warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure.
NHTSA complaint #11561588 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
The trunk lid on my 2014 Hyundai Sonata will not open. This is a safety issue since there is no way to access the spare tire if needed and there is no emergency exit. The left rear passenger seat is able to be folded down but it is the narrow one and there is no way to reach the seat release for the right-hand side which would allow someone to climb into the trunk and try to release from inside. Even then, it may not release based on what has been reported online. It seems there is a recall for later Hyundai Sonata model years (NHTSA report 21V619000 recall #208 for the 2016/2017 model year) but the problem exists as well in the 2011-2017 Sonatas. NHTSA should expand the model years in the recall or issue a new recall that covers the 2011-2017 Sonatas.
NHTSA complaint #11551996 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Rear Driver Side door latch actuator assembly. Part failed and door cannot be opened even to change/repair the part. This is a major safety issue as the door cannot be opened by rear passengers.
NHTSA complaint #11549071 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Over past 2 years, repeat alarm & message on dashboard, says, “Hybrid System Warning! Safety Stop and Do not Drive.” During attempts to back vehicle from garage, brakes grind. Seemed to be on auto-stop, trying to stop the vehicle from moving. On 01/03/22, brought car to Laguna Niguel Hyundai. Invoice notes “Caused by HISTORY CODES IN AHB C2112 C1102 C1237; NO CODES CURRENT CLEARED HISTORY CODES AND TEST DROVE VEHICLE NO CODES OR LIGHTS ON AT THIS TIME.” Was told history codes related to something about “voltage too high” and “Accelerator switch circuit [ABS switch]” and “wheel rear input signal.” On 11/28/22, brought car to Laguna Niguel Hyundai to address the ‘check engine light’ that was on. Service manager said “battery was not corresponding with the engine”, something about “HECU” and how it’s needed to “check brake reservoir for fluid – so I should pump it due to air bubble inside.” On 6/12/23, was driving more than 70mph; began losing speed, down to 0 mph. Stepping on gas did nothing. Drifted toward side of road & got alarm sound and message on dashboard, “Hybrid System Failure.” Terrified. No control of vehicle, 4 passengers, stranded. Towed to La Quinta. Notes on Hyundai La Quinta invoice: “VERIFIED CUSTOMER CONCERN SCANNED CODES P1B25 HIGH VOLTAGE PATH FAULT; P1B77 HIGH VOLTAGE PRECHARGE FAULT; POWER RELAY ASSEMBLY FALUTY SAFETY PLUG ASSEMBLY ARE FAULTY.” Notes also said BATTERY REPLACEMENT: BATTERY FAILED TEST Caused by BATTERY FAILED LOAD TEST. On 7/31, “HYBRID WARNING MESSAGE” returned. Alarm sound, grinding brakes – car undriveable. Towed for service. Invoice: “Caused by LOW BATTERY STATE OF HEALTH 53%. RECHARGE BATTERY TO 100% AND CLEAR DTC AND ROAD TEST.” While 7/31 work was covered under warranty, felt unsafe. Why battery health poor, when it was replaced 6 weeks before? Then came 8/30. Car disabled. Alarm sound & message says, “Hybrid System Warning! Safety Stop and Do not Drive.” Service manager said “hydraulic power unit failure”.
NHTSA complaint #11546978 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Im not aware what is malfunctioning or failing but I get a warning to not drive the vehicle and I start hearing a beeping sound, when I try to break it makes a harsh screeching sound and tugs the car a bit. It’s putting my safety at risk bc I drive for work and I can’t keep having this problem happen on the freeway. I’m afraid my brakes will fail and not break. Idk what the cause to this is, I’ve had two different mechanics take a look at this and no codes pop up. No warnings pop up either. This has been going on for almost 3 months. I can’t drive this vehicle with this problem and it’s the only one I rely on for work and my everyday needs. If you guys can please help me out or look into it I will be waiting for a response. Thank you
NHTSA complaint #11535947 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
o2 sensors
NHTSA complaint #11535172 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
My tail lights, brake lights and head lights continue to go out. I have replaced them many times myself and have taken it to the Hyundai dealership. They temporarily fixed them but couldn’t promise how long they would work. They said to fix them would cost over 1000$. This is a safety hazard as not having brake lights could cause serious accidents. This doesn’t seem Normal as I have never In my entire time I have been driving had to continually replace lights. Sounds like a manufacturer defect and I feel like the dealership should have to pay, not out of my pocket. I have been pulled over by the police and have had to explain why my lights don’t work. It’s scary because I never know if they are working or not. I did not get any warnings on my dashboard that lights were out. I have also googled this problem and it seems like a lot of the same year of Hyundai vehicles are having the same issues.
NHTSA complaint #11534708 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
The engine appears to have seized. No engine light, smell, sounds or warnings to indicate there was an issue. However, now my car will not start. The engine also will not turn over manually.
NHTSA complaint #11529888 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
My engine is burning oil and the mechanics are telling me it is very unusual for this to happen, there is a recall on my type of car and engine.
NHTSA complaint #11527187 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.