Tim G
Mar 5, 2021
Did you just see your neighbor’s new Hyundai Sonata and now you want one too? You’re impressed that J.D. Powers has awarded several Hyundai models as top of class in their category. Despite that, more than one Sonata model developed serious problems you should be aware of.
What are some common Hyundai Sonata problems?
The ones most often mentioned by owners include:
- The Theta II engine knocking and seizing
- ‘Self-healing’ paint peeling
- Seat belts detach during a crash
- Sunroofs that rattle and occasionally explode
Fortunately, we will explore all these Hyundai Sonata problems in this article. Now you can be armed with the information you need to make a wise buying decision as you explore your vehicleoptions.
Hyundai’s Commitment to an Unmatched Car-Owning Experience
Hyundai is known worldwide for ensuring its cars’ owners don’t experience the dreaded buyer’s remorse other manufacturers often ignore. The South Korean car manufacturer has repeatedly shown its commitment to its customers’satisfaction, even when that came at a significant cost to the company.
Advertisements are often heavy on hype while light on offering what they promise. However, this short clip that focuses on Hyundai’s 10-year/ 100,000-milepowertrain warranty makes it plain that Hyundai is serious about its product and commitment to its customers.
2011 – The Difference a Year Can Make
It’s better to start with the worst and move on from there. The 2011 Hyundai Sonata had problems that put it in a class by itself.
The Theta II gasoline direct injection (GDI) engine used in 2011 and 2012 models made a lot of headlines and none of them good. Complaints about the Hyundai Sonata engine included issues with bearing failure, piston ring defects, metal debris riding on contaminated oil, knocking, and seizing.
Catastrophic Engine Failure Included Some Catching on Fire
A class action lawsuit against Hyundai alleged premature engine failure in certain 2011 Hyundai Sonata vehicles. Owners cited engine overheating, piston ring failure and/or connecting rod knock, bearing failure, and abnormal oil consumption.
A 2o11 Sonata owner said:
“Add another one to the list! While out of town yesterday, my 2011 Hyundai Sonata just stopped running in the middle of the highway. No warning lights, nothing, engine just stops running. My oil has been changed every 3000 miles. There has been no oil leaks, nothing, and it just stops running!”
Manufacturing Problems
Much to its credit, Hyundai acknowledged its first engine to be built inside its Alabama engine factory had serious problems. The automaker said the issue resulted from the “mechanical de-burring” process designed to remove any metallic debris from the engines. Obviously, that process didn’t work.
Hyundai solved the problem by changing the process to a high pressure “wet blast” for the 2013 model year. Hyundai offered a settlement that reimbursed Sonata owners who paid for engine block repairs or replacements within 10 years and under 120,000 miles of the car’s original sale or lease.
The agreement also included expenses for towing or rental cars that were needed due to the flawed engines.
Hyundai engines had no such complaints before or after the 2011-2013 model years.
It is wise to remember that one industry hawk labeled the 2011 Hyundai Sonata “Avoid Like the Plague.”
Other Complaints
‘Self-Healing’ Paint Peeling
Hyundai’s ‘self-healing’ paint uses a chemical compound called ‘scratch recovery clear’ that mostly does what it claims to do, self-repair minor scratches and dings. However, there have been complaintsfrom some owners that the compound allowed the paint to peel off in large sheets.
Seat Belts Detach During a Crash
The sixth-generationSonata prompted a recall due to seat belts that detached during a crash. Despite that recall in 2017, Hyundai owners still report occasional problems in getting seat belts to fasten properly.
Sunroofs That Rattle and Occasionally Explode
Though Hyundai denies such failures occur under normal driving conditions, the manufacturer extended its sunroof warranty to 10 years or 120,000 miles. That includes labor, free replacement parts, and any interior damage that occurs after the sunroof breaks.
Blue Link Failure
Beginning in 2015, Hyundai started notifying owners that if they allowed their “Blue Link Telematics System” subscription to remain inactive for more than a year, it would be permanently disabled.
Models of the Sonata affected are 2011-2019.
Ready to Buy a Hyundai Sonata? Check out its History Report
Learning about the most commonplace Hyundai Sonata problems is a good starting place. However, you also will need to invest some time to find out about incidents in each vehicle’s past to prevent any unexpected issues down the road.
Fortunately, that’s easy to do. All you have to do is grab a Vehicle History report so you can dig deep into the Sonata’s past and discover any major issues that would otherwise catch you by surprise.
Owner Reviews
Crystal on June 7, 2023
2011 Hyundai Sonata 2.0T
Had the 2015 recall on the engine. Took my car in to be checked and told it failed the test I needed a new motor.. 2/3 months of having my vehicle I had to take it back several times for issues but was told I had to baby the new motor for the first 15000 miles.. I just had another recall for the pressurized fuel pip that may have gotten damaged during engine replacement. When I took it to a different dealer ship I was informed my motor was never changed. The motor in my vehicle is the original motor that came with the car.... I'm having a lot of issues with it now. I've spent 1000 of dollars replacing sensors etc. My check engine light still comes on. The motor is running rough and acts like it wants to stall.. I really love my car and HIGHLY upset I got lied too. I was left without my fairly new car then so a motor that never got replaced when it didn't. Plus, I was paying payments for a vehicle I couldn't drive..
Kelsey M on August 11, 2021
Brand new engine at 100,000 miles, but was the hassle worth it?
I have had way too many unexpected issues with this car. First, the starter had to be replaced after 1 year, then come to find out there was a factory recall on the starter. Then maybe 2 years later, the engine failed! Again, this was a highlighted factory recall along with 13 other recalls all on a 2011 Hyundai Sonata. Hyundai was great working with me through these recalls, however, it took over 3 months for the engine to come in, then another few weeks for them to install it! My car sat outside in the dead of winter for over 3 months. Then to get the car back finally, and now there is rust on the brakes because it was sitting for so long and Hyundai claimed there was nothing they could do.
Debbie on July 30, 2021
2011 Sonata
Nonstop issues with clicking sound in front end. Fenders feel hot all the time. Had to replace swaybar, cv axel, bearings, wheel hubs. Smell burning smell on ocassion. Tcs constantly coming on out of nowhere. And then wont cut off. When I get gas it wont restart without sputtering without me putting in neutral like the lines are stopped up. Mechanics seem confused by the car and it runs good enginewise. I dont trust this car and that sucks because I love it. I'm more paranoid of it by the day.
Jim on February 12, 2022
Best Warranty in the Business? Hardly!
I have taken very good care of this car since it was new. I even garage it all winter because I am a snowbird and go south with my wife's car for the winter. Now the paint (white) is coming off the hood and the roof down to the primer. Looks awful and Hyundai won't do a thing about it. I was quoted a price of $2800 to paint both surfaces. Are you kidding me? On a 2015. Nice how Hyundai stands behind its products.
Jack Finchum on May 30, 2023
2000 First Sonata 2004 Second Sonata 2008 Third Sonata and this third one now has 346,000 miles.
All 3 were 4 cylinder models and I have just purchased another 2008 Sonata with 6 cylinders. I need to slow down as I will be 84 in September. I have been considering a new Hyundai but probably would opt for the Elantra. After more than a 22 year history with Hyundai I will definitely stay with the brand. I believe taking care of the maintenance has played a big role in my success with Hyundai.
Esther C on April 9, 2021
2011 Hyundai Sonata is unreliable and unsafe.
This car had so many recalls ever since it came out. There were minor problems and major problems like engine stalling. These problems kept occurring and made it unsafe for driving. My car would not start more than 3 times in one year. I took it to the dealership to fix and they could not find the problem. They were not willing to find a solution and charged me for unnecessary repairs.
Kelsey M on September 16, 2021
Wish I knew about the issues before buying a 2011 Sonata.
This car was great at first but then started having multiple issues. The car was only 3 years old when the starter went. There then was an official recall on the starter. Then, another 3 years later, the engine went. When I brought it into the dealership, there was a recall on the engine and 11 other recalls as well! Very scary and unreliable car. I am looking to trade it in soon.
Latonya B on September 18, 2021
2011 Sonata is a car me, my kids and my family love.
I love my car. I had a problem about 2 years ago with my motor where it stopped running. I was ready to trade it or scrap it but I decided to call the dealership and ask them about it and found out it was a recall problem with the engine. It took a couple of months but they gave me a car a new Sonata to drive in the meanwhile while they ordered and replaced the engine.
Ross P on July 8, 2021
2011 sonata is a pretty solid car, but not flawless.
I have come across some problems with this car. Mine has an electrical problem where my lights stay on when the doors are closed and the switch is between on/off. And when I fill gas for the tank, the pump almost always stops even though the tank's not even full. So I wouldn't conclude that this is the most reliable car, but it does the job well.
Christy M on July 5, 2021
2011 Hyundai sonata: reliable car, good gas mileage and sits people comfortably.
One problem I experienced when I first got it was that the passenger seat dashboard began leaking water and got the whole front of the carpet wet. What I ended doing to fix it was to check the ac tubes/pipes and blow air through those to check for any clogs. This gave me good results. After that, I never had a problem with the leaking.
Abby A on September 18, 2021
2011 Sonata is great until you cannot drive.
I am unable to drive my car as there are some issues with it. For example, if I slow down at a stop sign, yield sign or to turn, the car dies. I'd have to stop on the side of the road, restart the car, and rev the engine so it can start. Do not know if this is a known issue or not, but it is very stressful.
Michelle B on August 17, 2021
My 2011 Hyundai Sonata review.
Overall I like the Sonata. It is a nice looking car. It get great gas mileage. It has been very reliable so far. I have had a problem with the check engine light coming on but when I had the codes read it didn't find anything wrong. The headlights are another problem, they are not very bright at all.
Gary B on July 18, 2021
My 2011 Hyundai Sonata in a nutshell
The engine was recalled twice, however Hyundai stepped up and replaced the engine and since fixing it, have not had any motor issues. There are a number of electrical issues. The door lock on the passenger side does not lock, therefore the car is never completely locked, and the alarm cannot be set.
Stephanie M on April 25, 2021
My 2011 Hyundai Sonata GLS has had many issues. This car is a lemon.
Ever since I bought the vehicle used, there have been over 10 recalls on this specific vehicle, as well as it has had multiple electrical issues. Also, the brake pads wear very easily and need replaced frequently. I would not recommend this vehicle to anyone, please do not buy.
Kimberly R on April 29, 2021
Not good quality - 2011 Sonata
This is the first vehicle that I have had that has so many recalls. Not just one at a time usually 3-5 every few months. It seems that before the recall is received by me my car already has the problem going on. Not a very reliable car at all. Check engine light never goes off
Lisa R on November 17, 2021
LRoark
2011 Hyundai Sonata engine seized up and I was getting oil changes every 3,000 or 3 months. I think this model of car should've been recalled. I think .someone should file a lawsuit against Hyundai for this model. Horrible experience with this 2011 Hyundai Sonata
LRoark on November 17, 2021
2011 Hyundai Sonata
120,000 engine seized up without any sensor to let me know I need oil. And I got oil changes every 3,000 miles or 3 months. The whole car should've been recalled. Someone needs to file a lawsuit against Hyundai for this no good car. Wasn't put together right
Maddie S on May 31, 2021
The 2011 Hyundai Sonata has great gas mileage - roughly 31 average on the highway
2011 Sonata's are the model where Hyundai changed It's engines and motor designs which has lead up to several issues to be had and recalls and warranted work - this is something I wish I had been informed of prior to purchasing this specific model.
Abigail A on August 15, 2021
2011 Sonata engine recall
The engine block has been recalled. The factory they were manufactured in switched cleaning systems and fiberglass got into the engine blocks, causing them to die around 100,000 miles. Has had largely inconvenient recall issues.
Melissa P on May 3, 2023
Awful car
I own a 2016 hyundai Sonata and have had nothing but problems. Serious oil consumption issues, and the white pearl paint has slowly chipped off had to have it repainted. I will never buy a hyundai again
Danny wong- Malaysia on June 13, 2022
Simple makes empire down
Fuel efficiency is Hyundai main goal and sonata 2012 no doubt has that which partly due to thermostat 82c but downside increases the Thermo rate in their engine which heat cause everything damage.
Carmen C on May 28, 2021
Problems with my 2011 Sonata
We have to get a new transmission because of a recall and there were 6 other recalls we have to get fixed. It is a comfortable car. I would feel more safe with out all the problems.
M on October 3, 2021
Engine Replacement
2015 Engine found needing to be replaced. Under warranty but concerned about my original warranty being reduced and finding out about so many others having issues with the cars.
Michelle K on August 8, 2021
2011 Sonata is very efficient and it is great on gas. Handle control is awesome.
One issue that does concern me is that there are a lot of recalls on this year and model. But overall I feel like it is great on gas and a very comfortable midsize car.
Christian S on July 10, 2021
The 2011 Sonata is a decent car.
The biggest issue I have with are the steering wheel controls for the stereo and cruise control. The buttons frequently mess up and do the wrong function.
Michael Power on June 6, 2022
2021 Hyundai Sonata N Line
My car has covered 12630 klm, from the start I had a Rattle from the dash, loud wind noise from the sunroof. And Today on my way to work, My car stopped?
Jamie H on September 17, 2021
Engine recall on the 2011 Sonata.
Around 120,000 miles (conveniently when the extended warranty is up), the engine seizes. BIG problem. Be aware of all the recalls on this vehicle.
Mona S on April 6, 2021
Reliable 2011 Sonata
Sonata is very reliable. I purchased in 2010 and the only problem I have had is with the gear shifter needing to be replaced in 2018.
Darian D on March 16, 2021
This 2011 Sonata has many recalls, but it can go long distances.
The air conditioner has had many problems in the last two years, and does not work properly. It has been changed out three times.
Amber H on May 2, 2021
2011 Hyundai sonata details.
There does seem to be several issued recalls. However, they are always addressed by the dealership. My main issue is visibility.
Margie on November 8, 2021
Inconvenience
2011 Sonata Limited. Bought in 2010, No major issue except too many recalls. Inconvenience taking to ABC/Hyundai Las Vegas, NV
Paul B on July 29, 2021
Reliable and comfortable 2011 Sonata with loads of standard features.
Only issue it has had numerous recalls/repairs over past few years including break in steering column.
Emily B on March 25, 2021
Very little maintenance needed on the 2011 Sonata.
I always have issues with the steering. Also, there has been several recalls on the car.
Danny on May 5, 2023
The beginning of problem.
Just check your vvt solenoid and fine is there have a loosen filter.
Tim G
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Hyundai Sonata Problems to Know of Before Buying