704 of the
22,259 complaints filed about the Hyundai Sonata
are about the suspension —
3% of everything owners reported.
The worst model year for it is 2011.
The contact owns a 2003 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated that while the vehicle was at Valvoline for a service appointment, the contact was made aware of NHTSA Campaign Number: 09V124000 (Suspension). The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who informed the contact that the subframe assembly and additional unknown parts were not included in the recall repair. In addition, the contact was informed that the recall could not be performed because other repairs were needed prior to the recall repair. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact stated that the vehicle was unsafe to drive. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure, and a case was filed. The contact was informed that the repair was not covered under the recall. The failure mileage was approximately 170,000.
NHTSA complaint #11743571 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
[XXX] [XXX] [XXX]; [XXX] [XXX] [XXX] Date: XXX To: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) Subject: Formal Safety Defect Complaint – 2017 Hyundai Sonata Theta II Engine Failure, Excessive Oil Consumption, Intake/Engine Component Failure and Safety Hazard Dear Sir or Madam: I am submitting this formal complaint and request for immediate investigation into the dangerous and ongoing mechanical failures involving my 2017 Hyundai Sonata equipped with the Theta II engine. I believe this vehicle contains a serious manufacturing and/or engineering defect that presents a substantial safety hazard to consumers. My vehicle has experienced a pattern of progressive mechanical failure beginning with abnormal and excessive oil consumption, which appears to be directly associated with malfunctioning engine airflow and intake-related components. Specifically, the lower engine airflow system and intake functionality appear defective, placing excessive strain on the intake manifold system and contributing to cascading engine failures. As a result of these failures, the vehicle has experienced: Severe and excessive oil burning/consumption Intake manifold malfunction and abnormal operating stress Suspected overheating and/or premature head gasket failure Ignition coil failure and electrical shorting/misfires Progressive engine deterioration rendering the vehicle unsafe and unreliable Increased risk of sudden engine shutdown, stalling, fire hazard, or catastrophic engine failure while operating The vehicle has become increasingly unreliable and inoperable due to these conditions. These failures raise significant concerns regarding public safety, especially given the known history of complaints and recalls associated with Hyundai Theta II engine defects. I am deeply concerned that this vehicle may reflect a broader pattern of defective manufacturing, insufficient quality control. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11742419 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
My 2009 Hyundai Sonata was taken to the Hyundai of Lincolnwood dealership on May 19th. The certified technician formally diagnosed severe structural corrosion on both front and rear subframes (engine cradles), declaring the vehicle completely unsafe to drive. The dealership is withholding the vehicle under safety custody but refuses to provide a loaner or rental car. Hyundai Motor America states the replacement parts are on indefinite backorder with no ETA, leaving me stranded with no safe alternative transportation since May 19th. This severe structural corrosion poses an imminent risk of suspension failure while driving
NHTSA complaint #11742084 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Ecm, p0303, yes, not yet, no, cel light before the car was brought to the dealership, 2019 Hyundai Sonata SE, 2.4L Theta II GDI. Perryville Hyundai IL refused applicable TSB in writing 5/4/26 despite active P0303 misfire, fuel-in-oil smell, crankcase pressure. I have Photos prove falsified multi-point inspection: 1.0 inch (.0833') wheel well discrepancy, same mileage in/out. Vehicle has stall risk. Case Manager [XXX] non-responsive 2hr 45min after requesting written tow instructions on safety matter. RSPM escalated 1:00 PM CDT 5/5/26 with 3:00 PM deadline. No contact received as of 3:03 PM. Vehicle unsafe to drive. Theta II Lifetime Warranty Settlement violation. Case #XXX. Requesting federal investigation. Photo upload is not working, I'll need a email to send them in apparently INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11735872 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
2004 Hyundai Sonata GLS front sub frame (K Frame) has rusted out but I guess for certain VIN numbers there was a recall. Mine has the same issue and has caused suspension issues with the control arms and axles, subframe has snapped due to rusting in Michigan.
NHTSA complaint #11734599 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
On February, 16th 2026, I took my vehicle into the Automotive shop for an oil change. They inspected the car as well and they found that the front passenger side of the vehicle subframe has a substantial amount of the metal rusted through. The file attached was a photo of the repair invoice from Luke’s Auto in Upper Arlington, OH. I see that there is an open safety recall for this exact issue on the 2004 Hyundai Sonata. Although this recall was sent out in 2009, am I able to take this to a local Hyundai dealership to have this fixed?
NHTSA complaint #11718609 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
This complaint concerns a repeat failure of both front CV axles on my 2015 Hyundai Sonata. The CV axles and boots were replaced by Gettel Hyundai of Charlotte County using OEM parts in November 2024. The same components failed again just 7,876 miles later in January 2026; requiring a second full replacement. A CV axle replaced with factory OEM parts by a certified Hyundai tech should not fail within 7,876 miles under normal driving conditions. This pattern of repeat failure indicates either * A defect in the OEM replacement parts supplied by Hyundai * An installation defect at the authorized dealership * An unresolved underlying mechanical condition that causes accelerated CV axle wear The rapid repeat failure represents a potential safety hazard. CV axle failure can result in sudden loss of drive power, difficulty controlling the vehicle, and in severe cases, wheel separation --all of which create dangerous conditions for the driver and others on the road. Chronological Timeline of Events: Nov 5, 2024 55,579 miles; both front CV axles replaced by authorized Hyundai dealership using OEM parts. Labor and parts performed per Hyundai standards. Jan 29, 2026 63,451 miles Same CV axles failed again. Second replacement performed at same authorized Hyundai dealership. Total repair cost $3227.16 paid out of pocket by me. Feb 16, 2026 Hyundai Motor America denied goodwill reimbursement request (Case #XXX), citing the malfunction being out of time in service of the vehicle. Reported to Hyundai Motor, their response did not address the repeated nature of failure, the short mileage interval, or the possibility of a defective OEM part or improper installation. I believe the NHTSA should be aware of this pattern and investigate other 2015 Hyundai Sonata owners have reported similar rapid repeat CV axle failures, which could indicate a systemic defect in either OEM parts or dealership repair procedures. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11718659 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Engine makes rattling and knocking noises. Transmission hesitates and jerks Suspension front struts and rear shocks are bad. Possible the isolators. Having horrible back pain when riding in car. Starter intermittently doesn't work Lane keep assistance goes over small bump in road will make car drive in opposite lane into on coming traffic. Took car to Tameron hyundai in Birmingham on the 29th of December 2025. Told them everything thats going on with the car. They did nothing about any of the issues. Car has 55,000 miles on it as that is when all problems have incurred. 60000 mile Warranty expires in February of this year.
NHTSA complaint #11709919 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
During multiple dealership visits in 2025, my 2018 Hyundai Sonata Limited 2.0T was repeatedly returned in unsafe condition. Southern Hyundai installed both front CV axles and torqued them incorrectly. The right axle was later confirmed under-torqued by about 50 ft-lbs, and the left axle was later found over-torqued 40ft-lbs Priority Hyundai later identified and corrected the under-torqued right axle, which briefly improved symptoms but did not resolve the underlying issue. When I returned for a follow-up on October 29, 2025, for a documentation-only appointment due to an active corporate case, the dealer ignored my instructions and altered evidence by loosening and re-torquing the left axle nut without consent. They recorded the torque at 250 ft-lbs in the repair order but failed to capture the required photos or before/after readings and referenced the wrong vehicle’s torque specification (Hyundai Elantra) in the documentation. Since then, the vehicle has continued to show steering pull, vibration, and instability at speed. Several visits showed only 0–3 miles of verification driving after safety-critical repairs involving brakes, suspension, and driveline components. Aftermarket parts were installed when OEM parts were promised, and uneven tire wear developed quickly. Safety risks include wheel-bearing damage, steering loss, and driveline separation due to repeated improper torque and altered evidence. Independent Firestone and Honda technicians have verified these issues. The matter remains under active Hyundai Corporate Case #[XXX]. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11698025 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
To whom it may concern, I have own my vehicle since Jan 2018, which was purchased from the dealership's owner w/less than 10k miles. Maintenance has been performed iaw Hyundai's recommended schedule. However, yesterday, I was informed that my vehicle needed a new engine and other replacements totaling $13,934.89. This is OUTRAGEOUS. How can a well kept vehicle w/106445 miles, need such replacements? Thus your assistance will be greatly appreciated.
NHTSA complaint #11688064 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The contact owns a 2003 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated that upon taking the vehicle to an independent mechanic, the mechanic discovered severe corrosion on the suspension. Upon investigation, the contact discovered NHTSA Campaign Number: 09V124000 (Suspension). The vehicle was taken to a dealer, and the contact was informed that due to the severe corrosion, the recall repair could not be performed. The mechanic at the dealer described the vehicle as being unsafe to drive. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 58,000
NHTSA complaint #11685113 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The contact owns a 2002 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated that while his girlfriend was driving at a slow speed, the sub frame snapped and fractured the axle. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic, and the contact was made aware of NHTSA Campaign Number: 09V124000 (Suspension). The vehicle was towed to the local dealer, who confirmed that the part had been discontinued. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was contacted and confirmed that the part had been discontinued. No additional assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 86,000.
NHTSA complaint #11681942 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
I got this car a Hyundai sonata 2004 about 2 to 3 years ago. At first I didn't notice the problem until a couple months into me having the car I was on the freeway and it suddenly felt like I was out of control of my car and the back end was like swerving like I was pulling a trailer. And ever since then it's gotten worse now my front right tire goes flat randomly. A friend mechanic of mine looked at it and said that it is a suspension He just doesn't know what part of the suspension. This is dangerous because I could lose control of my car I have at any time. That could be detrimental and there is a recall in it seems like almost every other state but Utah. For the exact issue that I'm having and I don't think that's right. I've had issues with this car ever since I got it. If you guys could look into this that would be great Also this form asks the approximate date that something happened it happens all of the time. To the point where I'm afraid to drive it at all. I also it's gotten so bad that sometimes when I'm going only 35 mph and I hit like a pothole it will severely swerve and I will lose control of my car or if I turn my car I turn my car my steering wheel the right way and I lost control of my car it started swerving and I was on a mountain..
NHTSA complaint #11681163 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
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.
The contact owns a 2018 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle lost motive power. The check engine warning light was illuminated. Additionally, engine oil was leaking onto the ground while the vehicle was parked. The contact stated that the dealer had previously replaced the spark plugs, and cylinders #3 and #4 twice, and an independent mechanic had replaced the front driver's side CV axle. The vehicle was towed back to the dealer, who determined that the engine had internal defects. The contact was informed that the engine and front CV axles needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure but refused to replace the engine. The failure mileage was approximately 86,800.
NHTSA complaint #11639130 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
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.
The contact owns a 2002 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated while driving approximately 15 MPH and slowing for a right turn, the contact heard an abnormal popping sound coming from the front end of the vehicle. The contact was in the middle of the turn when the vehicle lost motive power. The contact stated that the engine was still running, but the vehicle was not responding as needed. The contact turned off the vehicle and observed that the passenger’s side control arm had detached and fallen onto the street. The contact had the vehicle towed to an independent mechanic. The vehicle was diagnosed, and it was determined that the entire front end was extremely corroded. The contact was informed that the vehicle was not drivable. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The contact researched online and related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 09V124000 (Suspension). The failure mileage was approximately 204,000.
NHTSA complaint #11610010 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The contact's grandson owns a 2008 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated that while driving on several occasions at various speeds and driving over a bump in the roadway, the rear end of the vehicle started fishtailing from left to right. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed that the tie rod and control arms needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired but the failure persisted. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 142,000.
NHTSA complaint #11605123 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The contact owns a 2015 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated while depressing the brake pedal, the vehicle veered to the right. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer and the brake rotors were modified, and the failure was corrected. Additionally, while driving at speeds over 65 MPH, the front driver’s side of the vehicle was shaking and vibrating abnormally. The cause of the failure was not yet determined, and the vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 70,000.
NHTSA complaint #11604420 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.