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Model-year record

2010 Hyundai Sonata
Image: Wikimedia Commons contributor · See source file

2010 Hyundai Sonata

See the complaints, recalls, crash rating, and fuel economy in the public record. Then check the mileage and history of the car you found.

This page shows records, not a buy or avoid call.

The same model year can include a well-kept car and a neglected one. Use these records to plan what to check. Use the specific-car check when you know the mileage.

Complaints filed

345

Reports to NHTSA, 2010

Safety recalls

2

NHTSA campaigns on record

NHTSA crash test

Not rated

Overall NCAP rating

Combined MPG

25

EPA estimate

Known issues

Structure issues lead owner complaints (46% of 345 reports), followed by unknown or other (8%).

Structure46% · 160 reports
Unknown Or Other8% · 29 reports
Service Brakes6% · 20 reports
Air Bags6% · 19 reports
Engine6% · 19 reports
Power Train6% · 19 reports
Electrical System4% · 15 reports
Steering4% · 15 reports

+ 10 more component categories with fewer reports.

Share of all 345 NHTSA complaints for this model year, grouped by the component owners named. Bars are scaled to the largest category. Examples: ODI 10515386, ODI 11699964, ODI 11372556, ODI 11354899, ODI 11349720.

Individual complaint reports(345)

Showing the 50 most recent reports
Electrical SystemDec 2025 · ODI 11706241 · fireDetails +

Subject: Non-Collision Engine Compartment Fire - 2010 Hyundai Sonata (VIN: [XXX] ) ​"On dec 19 2025, my 2010 Hyundai Sonata suffered a sudden, non-collision fire that originated in the engine compartment. While there are currently no 'open' recalls on this VIN, I am formally reporting this incident as it matches the failure patterns documented in NHTSA Defect Petition DP18-003 regarding non-crash fires in Hyundai/Kia vehicles. ​Preliminary inspection of the damage shows characteristic signs of a manufacturer defect, specifically potentially related to a connecting rod bearing failure leading to an engine block puncture and oil ignition, or an electrical short in the ABS module—both of which have been subjects of major Hyundai fire investigations and class-action settlements (e.g., Engine II settlement) INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Reported
Dec 2025
Incident date
Dec 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
Fire
Open ODI 11706241 at NHTSA →
StructureNov 2025 · ODI 11699964Details +

External Handles made of plastic continue to break and do not allow access to open car doors

Reported
Nov 2025
Incident date
Nov 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11699964 at NHTSA →
Unknown Or OtherSep 2025 · ODI 11686797Details +

I have had 3 door handles fall off in the last couple months I think this is safety concern i do not see any recalls.I do see that there is a lot of people complaining about this matter door handles should not be fallen off

Reported
Sep 2025
Incident date
Sep 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11686797 at NHTSA →
SteeringSep 2025 · ODI 11686499Details +

Car has had check engine light on for 3 + years. Have taken it to several mechanics including a Hyundai dealership and none of them can figure out what is wrong. Have replaced water pump, belts x2 in a year (same belt) and thermostat x 3 again (all within 2 years). Dash fuel gage and Dash heating/cooling gage are completely erratic. Cruise control does not work. Due to chronic check engine light and mechanics unable to pin point the problem, car has become hazardous to drive. With that in mind, today (9/10/2025) while exiting the high way, car stalled and behaved like it was in neutral. Steering wheel also locked up at this time. Luckily was able to stop. Had to restart car and then it occurred again while driving on a side street at 35mph. The codes that are still popping up are ones that I have spent thousands trying to fix and find the root cause of the problem. What could the issue be if no mechanic can seem to diagnose and fix the issue?

Reported
Sep 2025
Incident date
Sep 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11686499 at NHTSA →
EngineJul 2025 · ODI 11676434Details +

While driving 60–70 mph on [XXX] just north of Sylmar, I suddenly heard a loud, deep “pop” from the lower part of the car. Within seconds, the engine began steaming heavily and leaking oil everywhere. I immediately turned on my hazard lights and began maneuvering toward the right shoulder, crossing multiple lanes with semis and fast-moving traffic approaching behind me. I felt unsafe and feared the car could catch fire or explode, especially with smoke and oil present. After safely exiting the vehicle, a mechanic later told me the rod bearing blew and punched a hole through the bottom of the engine block, calling it a total engine failure. He said it would require a full replacement and matched known issues with this model. There was no warning before the failure. I’m having it inspected at Hyundai of Downtown Los Angeles on July 28. I believe this event posed a serious safety hazard to me and others on the road. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Reported
Jul 2025
Incident date
Jul 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11676434 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemMay 2024 · ODI 11591509Details +

The contact owns a 2010 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated that upon attempting to turn the ignition key in the ignition switch to start the vehicle, the ignition switch failed to turn, and the steering wheel locked. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic, where the ignition switch was replaced; however, the vehicle failed to start. The mechanic determined that an unknown part needed to be replaced. The mechanic contacted the manufacturer for parts and was informed that the unknown part had been discontinued. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was unknown.

Reported
May 2024
Incident date
May 2024
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11591509 at NHTSA →
Fuel/Propulsion SystemMay 2024 · ODI 11591412Details +

Fuel pump failure, causing car to stop immediately on highway.

Reported
May 2024
Incident date
May 2024
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11591412 at NHTSA →
SteeringMar 2024 · ODI 11577080Details +

The contact owns a 2010 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated while driving at various speeds, the steering wheel was constantly pulling to the right. The contact had to steer to the left to keep the vehicle centered. The failure persisted even after wheel adjustments had been made. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed and determined that an alignment was needed. The wheels were aligned. The manufacturer had been made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 70,000.

Reported
Mar 2024
Incident date
Mar 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11577080 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemNov 2023 · ODI 11557588Details +

The plastic housing of the brake lights have turned black. I'm on my second set that I got at wrecking yard. The plastic doesn't hold up to the heat of the tail/brake light. I saw other cars like mine with same problem at the wrecking yard. And my ground wire to my radiator fan burned out as well during COVID. I think Hyundai used cheap plastic that can't hold up to the heat. My dash cracked really bad as well. All over. I saw the same cracked dashes of other car in wrecking yards. They know they had a plastic defect and they changed body styles the next year. My door handles brake off in my hands and the a/c vent broke twice. They have hazzard car because all of this happened early when I purchased the car. And my car has Hyundai and Kia parts old body style 2010 bought end of 2009. Theta 2 engine. All of the recalls but they leave my car out. And that stop brake switch light has broken so many times. Replaced free only 1 time by dealership. Other times I had to pay for. Cheap plastic. If I need repair by dealership , I have to leave car on their lot for 6weeks for them to look at. Not appointment. Leave my car on lot until it's my cars turn. And my car just quit running once while driving in my apartment complex. It also quit running driving down the highway.. everything shutting off and lights turned on dash. The battery light was on first, then the check engine , abs, and all lights coming on. I tried to turn on my hazards but everything was failing. I was lucky I wasn't hit by other highway traffic. My headlights went off or really dim. I was allowed to drive really slow to a roach hotel just there on interstate. I was told it was my alternator. But I think it was something else that caused failure. I did have my car professionally washed, that day. (Hardly do that). And the week before it was at Hyundai shop for retinting of windows which my battery was dead in their dusty lot when pickup. That brake light switch lamp stopper was broken and laying in floor l

Reported
Nov 2023
Incident date
Sep 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11557588 at NHTSA →
Unknown Or OtherAug 2023 · ODI 11540487Details +

I purchased a 2010 Hyundai Sonata in February 2022 from the original owner. In July of this year, my engine failed due to the oil consumption defect found in many of Hyundai's engines produced at the Alabama factory. My oil and check engine light came on before it was time for my following oil change, despite making on-time synthetic oil changes during ownership. The vehicle hesitated and jerked on my commute to work, potentially causing harm to myself and other motorists. I went to take my vehicle to the mechanic on my lunch break. The car failed to turn over and has been inoperable ever since. I need my engine replaced at no charge. It's unconscionable that corporate would turn me away because the engine has 146k miles, which is nowhere near the industry standard 200k. Hyundai has inspected the vehicle and confirmed that an engine replacement is needed.

Reported
Aug 2023
Incident date
Jul 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11540487 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemJun 2023 · ODI 11525889Details +

the alternator failed and after being tested, had to be replaced.

Reported
Jun 2023
Incident date
Jun 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11525889 at NHTSA →
SuspensionMay 2023 · ODI 11524560Details +

I have several recalls on my vehicle and the dealership only scrub and they did not replace the crossmember and other parts. I need help to see if this is OK

Reported
May 2023
Incident date
May 2022
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11524560 at NHTSA →
Power TrainMay 2023 · ODI 11522962Details +

I am contacting the NHTSA regarding a manufacturer's failure to comply with a NHTSA recall campaign. The campaign in question is #13V113000 for a 2010 Hyundai Sonata. The certified Hyundai service center claimed, verbally and on the customer invoice, to have replaced the stop lamp switch with a new OEM part, number 93810-4DR0A-QQH, per the recall's order. After supposedly replacing the defective part, the vehicle is still able to be shifted out of Park without first depressing the brake pedal. This happens with the key in the 'ON' position, 'Accessory' position, and even without the key in the ignition at all. No depression of the brake pedal is currently required to shift the vehicle, in any form, violating the recall's correction order. After contacting Hyundai Motor Company, they informed me via phone and email that because the car is "so old" and "out of warranty", I would remain financially liable for diagnosing and repair of any problems related to NHTSA Campaign #13V113000. Based on the fact my vehicle's current and ongoing issue is EXPLICITLY clarified in the details of Campaign #13V113000, I believe it remains Hyundai's responsibility to ensure the vehicle is safe to operate. Furthermore, Hyundai has seemingly, knowingly and willfully threatened my safety, safety of passengers, and that of the general public by refusing to thoroughly comply with a NHTSA Campaign. This subsequently places the person(s) listed above at risk of injury or even death due to Hyundai Motor Company's negligence. I hope that by reaching out to the NHTSA about this ongoing issue, the problem can be resolved respectfully, as the next course of action and final recourse, with regards to Hyundai Motor Company, may result in legal escalation. Thank you.

Reported
May 2023
Incident date
Apr 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11522962 at NHTSA →
EngineSep 2022 · ODI 11482768Details +

Recently at the Hyundai Dealership in Plantation,Florida I had them repair 2 RECALLS which were the LAMPLIGHT SWITCH & CROSSMEMBER. These RECALLS were not done correctly and caused my ESC Light to come on and my car shakes while driving. I never had these items before until they worked on my RECALLS. Now the Hyundai Dealer service is refusing to fix the damage they caused. I need help right away. The RECALL repair appointment was on June 12, 2022 and had them check the RECALLS again on August 29, 2022. My car is still at the Hyundai Service in Plantation, Florida.

Reported
Sep 2022
Incident date
Jun 2022
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11482768 at NHTSA →
Exterior LightingJul 2022 · ODI 11474945Details +

Junction box failure. No functioning marker lights.

Reported
Jul 2022
Incident date
Jul 2022
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11474945 at NHTSA →
SuspensionMay 2022 · ODI 11463803Details +

Front subframe corrosion, cross member is rusted through at the weld line for the front sub frame. Discovered during annual safety inspection

Reported
May 2022
Incident date
Apr 2022
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11463803 at NHTSA →
Power TrainFeb 2022 · ODI 11454289Details +

Rough jerking downshift transmission when stopping or slow down.

Reported
Feb 2022
Incident date
Jun 2021
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11454289 at NHTSA →
Unknown Or OtherOct 2021 · ODI 11437017Details +

My car check engine light is on for a while.it’s yellow solid light seen on my car dashboard.I went repair center and he advice and changed my car vent valve and light goes out for some days and again appear. I change my car gas cap too but it didn’t work. I spent a lot of money to fix that.

Reported
Oct 2021
Incident date
Oct 2020
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11437017 at NHTSA →
Unknown Or OtherJun 2021 · ODI 11421940 · crash · 1 injuries · 1 deathsDetails +

We were hit on the right front passenger side by a driver on a Suzuki motorcycle. The driver was ejected from the motorcycle, went thru the right passenger window, traveled across the passenger compartment. He came to rest head down on my lap. Accident was fatal for the motorcyclist who died at the site. My adult autistic son was seated in the rear seat behind the passenger seat. The side front passenger window was completely shattered and the rear right passenger window was shattered also. My son hit his head on the interior right side of the vehicle and had a TBI and serious cuts requiring surgery and ICU stay. No airbags in the car deployed including side airbags and no curtainwalls deployed on the right side or anywhere in the vehicle. Car was supposedly equipped with such. Police inspected vehicle, insurance people inspected vehicle; vehicle is available for inspection at salvage lot. Pictures have been taken by insurance company. Right side of vehicle was severely smashed. I had no previous warning of problems with safety features.

Reported
Jun 2021
Incident date
May 2021
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
Crash 1 injuries 1 deaths
Open ODI 11421940 at NHTSA →
EngineMar 2021 · ODI 11398690Details +

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2010 HYUNDAI SONATA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 70 MPH, THE ENGINE THREW A ROD AND THE VEHICLE STALLED WITHOUT WARNING. DUE TO THE FAILURE, THE CONTACT PULLED THE VEHICLE OFF TO THE SIDE OF THE ROADWAY AND HAD THE VEHICLE TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC. THE MECHANIC CONFIRMED THAT THE ENGINE THREW A ROD WHICH LED TO COMPLETE ENGINE FAILURE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE AND INFORMED THE CONTACT TO TOWED THE VEHICLE TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER FOR ASSISTANCE. THE VEHICLE WAS THEN TOWED TO HYUNDAI OF GREELEY (4533 W 29TH ST, GREELEY, CO 80634) AND HE WAS INFORMED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS NO LONGER UNDER WARRANTY. NEITHER THE DEALER NOR THE MANUFACTURER OFFERED ANY FURTHER ASSISTANCE. THE VEHICLE REMAINED IN THE POSSESSION OF THE DEALER. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE ENGINE BLEW AND FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 116,000. *DT *JB *DT

Reported
Mar 2021
Incident date
Feb 2021
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11398690 at NHTSA →
SuspensionJan 2021 · ODI 11386206Details +

SUSPENSION AND TRANSMISSION FAULTY.

Reported
Jan 2021
Incident date
Jan 2021
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11386206 at NHTSA →
Unknown Or OtherDec 2020 · ODI 11377364Details +

ALL BUT ONE DOOR HANDLES ARE BROKEN. THE DRIVER SIDE JUST BROKE AND ITS A SAFETY HAZARD.

Reported
Dec 2020
Incident date
Nov 2020
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11377364 at NHTSA →
StructureNov 2020 · ODI 11372556Details +

IN THE LAST THREE MONTHS, BOTH DRIVER'S SIDE DOOR HANDLES HAVE FALLEN OFF/BROKEN. IN THE FIRST INCIDENT (SEPT 2020), THE DRIVER'S SIDE REAR DOOR HANDLE BROKE OFF THE CAR WHEN I TRIED TO OPEN THE DOOR. IN THE SECOND INCIDENT (NOV 2020), THE DRIVER'S SIDE FRONT DOOR HANDLE REMAINED ON THE CAR BUT BROKE SO THAT IT NO LONGER FUNCTIONS. BOTH INCIDENCES OCCURRED WHEN THE VEHICLE WAS STATIONARY. IT IS UNKNOWN WHY THE DOOR HANDLES BROKE; I DID NOT USE EXCESSIVE FORCE NOR WAS THERE ANY INDICATION OF A PROBLEM PRIOR TO THESE INCIDENCES.

Reported
Nov 2020
Incident date
Nov 2020
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11372556 at NHTSA →
StructureSep 2020 · ODI 11354899Details +

LAST MONTH, THE DOOR HANDLE TO THE DOOR BEHIND THE DRIVER SEAT WAS BROKEN. WHEN I TRIED TO OPEN MY DOOR, IT DID NOT OPEN. THAT IS IN THE PICTURE ATTACHED. ON SATURDAY, I OPENED MY DRIVER'S DOOR AND THE DOOR HANDLE BROKE IN MY HAND. NOW I HAVE ONLY TOW DOORS THAT I CAN OPEN. I LOOKED ONLINE AND MANY PEOPLE ARE HAVING ISSUES WITH THE HYUNDAI SONATA. I FEEL LIKE CUSTOMERS SHOULD NOT PAY FOR THIS BECAUSE THIS A KNOWN SAFETY ISSUE. WHEN THIS HAPPENED, MY CAR WAS PARKED. I AM GOING TO HYUNDAI TO GET THIS REPAIRED BECAUSE I AM SCARED THAT I WILL NOT BE ABLE TO GET IN MY CAR IF ALL THE HANDLES GETS LIKE THIS.

Reported
Sep 2020
Incident date
Sep 2020
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11354899 at NHTSA →
EngineSep 2020 · ODI 11353067Details +

CAR HAS ONLY 77,000 MILES AND WAS WELL MAINTAINED. ON AUGUST 27, I HAD DRIVEN THE CAR LATE AFTERNOON, PARKED. LATER AFTER A COUPLE OF HOURS WHEN I WENT TO START IT, IT WOULD NOT START, JUMP START DID NOT WORK. MECHANIC REPLACED THE STARTER AND STILL WOULD NOT START. HE CHECKED THE ENGINE AND TOLD ME THAT THE ENGINE HAS SEIZED. I TOOK IT TO THE HYUNDAI DEALER WHO CONFIRMED THAT ENGINE HAS SEIZED. I CONTACTED HYUNDAI AS THE COMPLAINT IS SIMILAR TO OTHER CAR ENGINES THAT SEIZED WHEN DRIVEN BETWEEN 60,000 AND 90,000 MILES. HYUNDAI MOTORS IS NOT WILLING TO FIX THIS MAJOR ISSUE.

Reported
Sep 2020
Incident date
Aug 2020
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11353067 at NHTSA →
StructureAug 2020 · ODI 11349720Details +

DRIVER'S EXTERIOR DOOR LATCH BROKE INTO TWO WHEN DRIVER ATTEMPTED TO OPEN DOOR WITH HAND TO ENTER THE CAR. THE DOOR HAD BEEN UNLOCKED VIA REMOTE CONTROL.

Reported
Aug 2020
Incident date
Aug 2020
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11349720 at NHTSA →
SuspensionAug 2020 · ODI 11348953Details +

WHEN THE TRANSMISSION IS COLD, WHILE DRIVING AND SLOWING DOWN TO 20 MHP THE CARD JERKS, HARD DOWNSHIFT FROM 3RD TO 2ND, AND RPM INCREASE BY SEVERAL HUNDRED RPS. ONCE THE TRANSMISSION WARMS UP, ISSUE MOSTLY GOES AWAY. ISSUE STARTED THIS YEAR. SECOND ISSUE IS THE WHITE PAINT EASILY COMES OFF ALL OVER THE CAR, EVEN JUST FROM HOSING THE CAR WITH WATER. ISSUE HAS BEEN GOING ON FOR SEVERAL YEARS. ITS HAPPENING ALL OVER THE CAR PAYMENT. DEALERSHIP SAID THEY HAVE NOT SEEN THE ISSUE BEFORE, HOWEVER I SEE ALOT OF OWNERS WITH WHITE COLOR HAVE THIS ISSUE. SUSPENSION SEEMS TO BE VERY HARD WHILE GOING OVER ANY BUMPS. FEELS LIKE THERE ARE NO SUSPENSIONS MECHANISMS AT ALL.

Reported
Aug 2020
Incident date
Jan 2020
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11348953 at NHTSA →
Unknown Or OtherJul 2020 · ODI 11341411Details +

AS I WAS DRIVING ON THE FREEWAY MY CAR WHICH WAS ON CRUISE CONTROL. THE CAR WENT FROM 60-50-40-30 WITHIN 30 SECONDS WHILE IT STILL SAID CRUISE CONTROL WAS ON AND THE GAS AND BRAKES DIDNT WORK. I HAD TO PULL OVER TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD. THE ELECTRONICS STILL WORK BUT THE CAR NO LONGER WORK AND DID NOT TURN ON. IT SEIZED WHILE I WAS DRIVING. NO WARNING LIGHTS, NO CHECK ENGINE LIGHT, NO GAS LIGHT, ABSOLUTELY NO WARNING BEFORE THE CAR SEIZED.

Reported
Jul 2020
Incident date
Jul 2020
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11341411 at NHTSA →
StructureJul 2020 · ODI 11338763Details +

REAR PASSENGER DOOR HANDLE (EXTERIOR) BROKEN - FEBRUARY 2020. ALL 4 DOOR HANDLES HAVE BROKEN ON THIS CAR BETWEEN 2015-2020! HYUNDAI PAID FOR THE FIRST 1 BUT FOR THE 2ND AND 3RD TOLD ME, ESSENTIALLY, "TOO BAD, DOOR HANDLES BREAK." APPARENTLY THEY DO ON 2010 HYUNDAI SONATA'S AS THERE ARE MANY COMPLAINTS ONLINE AND ALL 4 DOOR HANDLES BROKE ON MY CAR. THAT IS RIDICULOUS. I EXPECT HYUNDAI TO COVER THIS ONE. THE CAR HAS 66K MILES ON IT. IT DOES NOT GET HEAVY USE. THE FIRST 5 YEARS, I TOOK PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION TO WORK, THEN STARTED WORKING FROM HOME. THERE IS NO REASON FOR THE PASSENGER SIDE HANDLES TO BREAK. THE DRIVER'S DOOR HANDLE GOT NORMAL USE; NOTHING EXCESSIVE OR UNUSUAL.

Reported
Jul 2020
Incident date
Feb 2020
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11338763 at NHTSA →
StructureJun 2020 · ODI 11330752Details +

I PURCHASED THE CAR IN FEBRUARY 2016 AND ALMOST IMMEDIATELY 1 DOOR HANDLE CAME OFF, SINCE THEN I HAVE HAD 1 MORE TO COME OFF AND 1 IS JUST HANGING ON SO I DO NOT TOUCH IT. UNFORTUNATELY THAT IS THE DRIVER'S SIDE DOOR. I AM CONSTANTLY CLIMBING OVER MY SEATS OR ATTEMPTING TO OPEN FROM ANOTHER DOOR JUST TO GET INSIDE THE VEHICLE. THIS IS TOTALLY UNACCEPTABLE AND ESPECIALLY FRUSTRATING WHEN I HAVE MY GRANDCHILDREN CAR SEATS IN THE BACK. I CAN NOT AFFORD TO KEEP REPLACING DOOR HANDLES AND THE ONLY ONES AVAILABLE DO NOT MATCH CAR COLOR. AFTER SEARCHING I SEE THAT THIS WAS A PROBLEM BEFORE I PURCHASED MY CAR. I CAN NOT HONESTLY RECOMMEND THIS VEHICLE TO ANYONE FOR THE FACT THAT YOU NEED TO BE ABLE TO GET INSIDE JUST TO TEST DRIVE AND THE DOOR HANDLE MIGHT POSSIBLY COME OFF. THE CAR RUNS FINE BUT I WOULD LIKE IMMEDIATE REPLACEMENTS FOR DOOR HANDLES SO THAT I CAN GET INSIDE THE CAR CORRECTLY AND WITHOUT HAVING TO CLIMB OVER OTHER SEATS ESPECIALLY IN THE RAIN. *TR

Reported
Jun 2020
Incident date
Mar 2016
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11330752 at NHTSA →
StructureJun 2020 · ODI 11327393Details +

DOOR HANDLES FALL OFF. THEY'VE ALREADY BEEN REPLACED 8 TIMES IN THE LAST 3 YEARS. I HAVE NOW LOST TWO MORE HANDLES WHICH AT 58$ A PIECE, I AM BECOMING FRUSTRATED THAT I CANNOT GET IN MY CAR QUICKLY GOD FORBID SOMETHING HAPPENS, NOR GET TO MY BABY IN THE BACK SEAT QUICKLY AS I HAVE TO ROLL DOWN THE WINDOWS, RUN AROUND THE VEHICLE TO OPEN THE DOOR. I HAVE SEEN 2011 HYUNDAI SONATAS RECALL THE HANDLES, HOWEVER MINE IS A 2010 AND THIS SHOULD BE REPLACED BY HYUNDAI AS IT HAS BECOME A NUISANCE. *TR

Reported
Jun 2020
Incident date
Jun 2020
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11327393 at NHTSA →
Power TrainApr 2020 · ODI 11320718Details +

ESC OFF LIGHT COMES ON, AND CHECK ENGINE LIGHT COMES ON SOMETIMES WHEN DRIVING. SOMETIMES, THE CAR LOSES ITS POWER WHEN THAT HAPPENS IN THE MIDDLE OF DRIVING. ACTING AS IF THE CAR WAS TURNED OFF. IT HAS HAPPENED MULTIPLE TIMES.

Reported
Apr 2020
Incident date
Apr 2020
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11320718 at NHTSA →
VisibilityFeb 2020 · ODI 11312271Details +

ON FRIDAY MORNING FEBRUARY 21, 2020 WHILE TRAVELING NORTH ON I75 THE GLASS SUNROOF ON MY 2010 HYUNDAI SONATA FLEW OFF WHILE TRAVELING AT AROUND 65 MILES PER HOUR. I CONTACTED MY INSURANCE AND FLORIDA HIGHWAY PATROL. I AM VERY CONCERNED ABOUT THIS SAFETY ISSUE DUE TO THE SAME THING HAPPENED TO MY WIFE'S 2010 HYUNDAI SANTA FE, VIN [XXX]. I WILL FILE A SEPARATE VEHICLE SAFETY REPORT ON THE SANTA FE. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR

Reported
Feb 2020
Incident date
Feb 2020
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11312271 at NHTSA →
Unknown Or OtherFeb 2020 · ODI 11311610Details +

THE DOOR HANDLES ARE BREAKING

Reported
Feb 2020
Incident date
Feb 2020
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11311610 at NHTSA →
Unknown Or OtherFeb 2020 · ODI 11309825Details +

THE DOOR HANDLES BROKE OFF THE CAR DURING THE WINTER

Reported
Feb 2020
Incident date
Feb 2020
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11309825 at NHTSA →
EngineFeb 2020 · ODI 11309273Details +

WHILE DRIVING THE CAR ON A CITY STREET AT ABOUT 35 MILES AN HOUR, IT SUDDENLY STALLED. I WAS ABLE TO GET TO A SIDE STREET. THE CAR WOULD NOT START. THE ENGINE IS RUINED AND NEEDS TO BE REPLACED. THE CAR HAS HAD ALL OF ITS MAINTENANCE/OIL CHANGES. IT HAS HAD NO ACCIDENTS. IT HAS 70,000 MILES ON IT.

Reported
Feb 2020
Incident date
Jan 2020
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11309273 at NHTSA →
StructureFeb 2020 · ODI 11307904Details +

CAR PURCHASED JUNE 2016. 17,000 MI. THREE MONTHS LATER THE REAR PASSENGER DOOR HANDLE FELL OFF. WITHIN SIX MONTHS THE REAR DRIVERS SIDE HANDLE FELL OFF THEN THE FRONT PASSENGER DOOR HANDLE FELL OFF. THIS HAPPENED WHILE THE CAR WAS PARKED. HYUNDAI WANTS $350.00 FOR EACH HANDLE. I CAN NO LONGER HAVE PASSENGERS IN MY CAR IT IS UNSAFE. MY FEAR IS MY DRIVER'S SIDE DOOR HANDLE WILL FALL OFF. I AM 70 AND TOO OLD TO CLIMB THRU THE TRUNK. IF THIS ISN'T A RECALL IT SHOULD BE. I CAN FILE A COMPLAINT WITH THE BBB IF NECESSARY. THE CAR WAS PARKED WHEN THE HANDLES FELL OFF.

Reported
Feb 2020
Incident date
Jul 2016
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11307904 at NHTSA →
Fuel/Propulsion SystemDec 2019 · ODI 11291088Details +

CARS FUEL TANK HAS RUSTED THRU CAUSING EMISSIONS FAILURES. REMEDY IS TO REPLACE FUEL TANK! $800-1200.00

Reported
Dec 2019
Incident date
Jun 2018
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11291088 at NHTSA →
StructureDec 2019 · ODI 11287158Details +

DOOR HANDLES EASILY SNAPPED OFF AND SENSOR WENT OUT FUEL TANK. THIS HAPPENING ON ALL CARS I HAVE 5 CO WORKERS SAME VEHICLES ALL HAVE SAME PROMBLEM THIS SHOULD BE FIXED WE CANT ENTER IN REAR OF CAR WITHOUT GETTING IN FRONT TO OPEN BOTH BACK DOORS

Reported
Dec 2019
Incident date
Dec 2019
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11287158 at NHTSA →
StructureOct 2019 · ODI 11268047Details +

THE DOOR LOCKING SYSTEM IS ERRATIC. IN ADDITION THE WINDOW UP AND DOWN MECHANISM WORKS INCONSISTENTLY.

Reported
Oct 2019
Incident date
Feb 2019
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11268047 at NHTSA →
StructureOct 2019 · ODI 11268045Details +

DOOR HANDLES CCS ME RIGHT OFF. HAD TO REPLACE ALL OF THEM

Reported
Oct 2019
Incident date
Feb 2019
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11268045 at NHTSA →
Air BagsSep 2019 · ODI 11257609Details +

TWO VERTICAL CRACKS ON EITHER SIDE OF THE PASSENGER SIDE AIRBAGS SHOWED UP THIS MORNING. THE CAR HAS NOT BEEN IN ANY ACCIDENTS. DUE THESE CRACKS I AM AFRAID THE AIRBAG WILL DEPLOY WITHOUT CAUSE WHEN MY GRANDCHILDREN ARE IN THE PASSENGER SEAT, OR DEPLOY WHILE I AM DRIVING. PLEASE ADVISE ON THIS AS SOON AS POSSIBLE. THANK YOU. CINDY L.

Reported
Sep 2019
Incident date
Sep 2019
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11257609 at NHTSA →
EngineAug 2019 · ODI 11241139Details +

I HAVE BEEN HAVING A PROBLEM WITH THE ENGINE LIGHT COMING ON FOR A WHILE NOW AND I HAVE TAKEN IT TO HAVE IT CHECKED OUT, IT HAS BEEN PUT ON THE DIAGNOSTIC MACHINE TO SEE WHAT CAME UP ON THE REPORT. THIS HAS BEEN DONE A NUMBER OF TIMES AND WHATEVER REPORT SHOWS UP I HAVE HAD IT FIXED BUT THE ENGINE LIGHT STILL WOULD COME ON AND IT WAS SUPPOSE TO BE FIXED, I WOULD LIKE SOME HELP IN FINDING OUT WHY THIS PROBLEM CONTINUES THIS BECOMING COSTLY AND STILL NOT FIXED COULD I PLEASE GET SOME HELP WITH THIS. WOULD APPRECIATE A RESPONSE. THANKING YOU IN ADVANCE [XXX] 2010 HYUNDAI SONATA. THIS PROBLEM HAS BEEN GOING ON FOR 1 YEAR AND 3 MONTHS WITHOUT ANY KIND OF SOLUTION TO THE PROBLEM. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR

Reported
Aug 2019
Incident date
May 2018
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11241139 at NHTSA →
SteeringJun 2019 · ODI 11222505Details +

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2010 HYUNDAI SONATA. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 55 MPH OVER A BUMP IN THE ROAD, THE STEERING WHEEL WOBBLED AND SHOOK. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC, BUT WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED IN 2010 FOR A SIMILAR FAILURE. THE DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 162,000.

Reported
Jun 2019
Incident date
Jun 2019
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11222505 at NHTSA →
StructureJun 2019 · ODI 11222315Details +

I HAVE HAD THREE EXTERIOR DOOR HANDLES BRAKE OFF THE DOOR ON THREE DIFFERENT OCCASIONS.. THE ENTIRE HANDLE BROKE OFF UPON GETTING TO GET INTO THE CAR. ONE HANDLE BROKE WHILE UNDER WARRANTY, THE OTHER TWO BROKE ON MAY 5, 2019. AND JUNE 22, 2019.

Reported
Jun 2019
Incident date
Jun 2019
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11222315 at NHTSA →
Unknown Or OtherJun 2019 · ODI 11218950Details +

TWO BROKEN DOOR HANDLE THE CAR WAS STATIONARY AND WAS GOING TO OPEN THE DOOR AND THE HANDLES FALL OFF FRONT AND BACK DOORS HOW TO YOU THINK I CAN GET INTO THE CAR TO GET MY CHILDREN OUT. I AM 58 YEARS OLD AND NEVER HAD A DOOR HANDLE FALL OFF

Reported
Jun 2019
Incident date
Jun 2019
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11218950 at NHTSA →
Air BagsJun 2019 · ODI 11218361Details +

DASHBOARD ABOVE PASSENGER AIRBAG DEVELOPED (2) VERTICAL CRACKS WITHIN (24) HOURS WITHOUT INCIDENT. THERE HAS BEEN NO CONTACT OR INCIDENT OF THE VEHICLE OR DASH AREA AT ISSUE. NOT SURE IF AIRBAG IS TRYING TO DEPLOY, OR HAS DEPLOYED INTERNALLY. TO THE BEST OF MY KNOWLEDGE THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED WHEN THE SAID DAMAGE OCCURRED.

Reported
Jun 2019
Incident date
Jun 2019
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11218361 at NHTSA →
EngineJun 2019 · ODI 11217287Details +

ENGINE LIGHT WAS COMING ON TOOK CAR TO SHOP THE ENGINE LIGHT WAS ON CODE PO449 EVAP SYSTEM FAULT FAILURE IN VAPOR CANISTER HOUSING PERFORMED DIAGNOSTIC AND PINPOINT TESTING FOUND SAID IT NEEDED CANISTER CLOSE VALVE AND CANISTER EASY THE WORK WAS DONE BUT THE ENGINE LIGHT STILL COMES ON.

Reported
Jun 2019
Incident date
May 2019
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11217287 at NHTSA →
StructureMay 2019 · ODI 11209465Details +

I'VE HAD TO REPLACE 3 DOOR HANDLES, TRANSMISSION, LICK SEAT BELT, SUNROOF MOTOR, SINCE BUYING THIS CAR. IT IS 9 YEARS OLD AND THE SEALS ON THE DOORS ARE GOING BAD. AIR AND PESTS ARE GETTING IN THE CAR. AND THE NOISE LEVEL IS HORRIBLE. I WAS TOLD 2 WEEKS AGO THAT THE RATTLING I KEEP HEARING IS THE UNIVERSAL JOINTS AND FRAME AND WILL COST ABOUT $1000 TO FIX. CAR WAS OK UNTIL IT JUST HOT 100000 MILE MARK.

Reported
May 2019
Incident date
Mar 2013
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11209465 at NHTSA →
SteeringMay 2019 · ODI 11209158Details +

THE STEERING WILL RANDOMLY STICK. ITS ESPECIALLY DANGEROUS ON THE HIGHWAY AND HAS ME TERRIFIED OF CURVES. IT CAUSES OVER CORRECTING BECAUSE THE STEERING STICKS AND THEN TURNS LOOSE. I'VE SAW NUMEROUS OVER COMPLAINTS OF THIS SAME ISSUE. IT MAKES THE CAR WANDER ALL OVER THE ROAD WHILE DRIVING. IT MAKES TURNING AT LOWER SPEEDS VERY DIFFICULT. AND TURNING AT HIGHER SPEEDS INCREDIBLY DANGEROUS. THEY RECALLED THE LATER SONATAS, THE 2010 SONATAS SHOULD HAVE BEEN INCLUDED AS WELL.

Reported
May 2019
Incident date
May 2019
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11209158 at NHTSA →

This page shows the latest 50 reports to keep it usable. The count above includes every complaint NHTSA has returned for this model year.

Recalls(2)

Open a recall to read what NHTSA says is wrong, what can happen, and how it gets fixed. Check the VIN and remedy eligibility with a dealer; federal no-charge requirements have an age limit, though a manufacturer may offer more coverage.

SuspensionDec 2013 · 13V354000Details +

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.

Remedy: Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will repair or replace the crossmember assembly. The recall began on October 8, 2013. Owners may contact Hyundai Customer Care Center at 1-800-633-5151. Hyundai's recall number is 113.

Open full NHTSA recall record →
Exterior LightingJan 2013 · 13V113000Details +

Hyundai Motor Company (Hyundai) is recalling certain model year 2006-2009 Accent, model year 2007-2011 Azera, Sonata and Sante Fe,2006-2011 Tucson, 2009-2011 Elantra Touring, 2007-2010 Elantra, 2008-2011 Veracruz, 2009-2011 Genesis, 2010-2011 Genesis Coupe, 2007-2008 Entourage, and 2006-2008 Tiburon vehicles. Originally, in April 2013, Hyundai recalled 1,059,824 model year 2007-2009 Accent and Tucson, model year 2007-2010 Elantra, model year 2007-2011 Santa Fe, model year 2008-2009 Veracruz, model year 2010-2011 Genesis Coupe, and model year 2011 Sonata vehicles. In September 2013, Hyundai informed the agency that it was adding more vehicles to this campaign, representing an additional 652,512 units. The total number of vehicles being recalled is now 1,712,336. In the affected vehicles, the stop lamp switch may malfunction. A malfunctioning stop lamp switch may cause the brake lights to not illuminate when the brake pedal is depressed or may cause an inability to deactivate the cruise control by depressing the brake pedal. Additionally, a malfunctioning stop lamp switch may also result in intermittent operation of the push-button start feature, affect the operation of the brake transmission shift interlock feature, preventing the shifter from being moved out of the PARK position and cause the Electronic Stability Control (ESC) malfunction light to illuminate.

Risk: Failure to illuminate the stop lamps during braking or inability to disengage the cruise control could increase the risk of a crash. Additionally, when the ignition is in the 'ON' position, the transmission shifter may be able to be moved out of Park without first applying the brake. This may lead to unintentional movement of the car which may increase the risk of a crash.

Remedy: Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will replace the stop lamp switch, free of charge. The safety recall began on April 22, 2013. Owners may contact Hyundai at 1-800-633-5151. Hyundai's recall campaign number is 110.

Open full NHTSA recall record →

A campaign can apply to this model year without being incomplete on a specific vehicle. Check the VIN with NHTSA or a dealer to confirm whether a particular car needs repair.

Investigations

3 NHTSA investigations on record

Investigations are agency reviews, not findings that a vehicle is defective.

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 complaints were provided which alleged that the oil drain pans lack sufficient structural integrity and are susceptible to cracking. The petition itself can be reviewed at NHTSA.gov under ODI number 11481745. On September 12, 2022, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened Defect Petition (DP22-003) to evaluate the Petitioners’ request. The Petitioners have provided additional complaints within four supplemental letters dated January 31, 2023, March 21, 2023, May 23, 2023, and August 4, 2023. ODI’s evaluation included the review and analysis of the complaints and supporting information submitted by the Petitioners, as well as additional complaints submitted directly to NHTSA which referenced either the oil drain plug or a crack in the oil pan. After reviewing the available data, ODI has not identified evidence that would support opening a defect investigation into the oil drain pan assemblies of the subject vehicles. Based on a review of the available information, a loss of motive power resulting from an oil drain plug back out has not occurred between the initial sale of a vehicle and the completion of its first oil change. If during an oil change service, a technician fails to remove the existing drain plug gasket before installing a new gasket, it is likely that a proper seal between the drain plug and the oil pan will not be made. An improper seal between the drain plug and oil pan could lead to the backing out on the drain plug, resulting in the sudden loss of oil while driving. Additionally, the provided examples of oil pan cracks were localized to the immediate vicinity of the oil drain plug and/or appeared to be the result of direct-contact with a tool during servicing.  There is no information to support that a vehicle-based defect exists relating to the oil pan assembly, and instead the documented incidents are related to the failure to follow the proper maintenance procedures during oil change service. In October 2023, Hyundai published a Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) that provided detailed instructions for oil change service on its gasoline powered vehicles, specifically highlighting the need to remove and replace the existing drain plug gasket prior to reinstalling the drain plug. After a thorough review of the material submitted by the petitioner, the information already in NHTSA's possession, and the potential risks to motor vehicle safety implicated by the petitioners' allegations, NHTSA does not believe that a formal investigation is warranted. Therefore, the petition is denied. A Federal Register Notice (FRN) further detailing NHTSA’s reasons for denial of the petition will be published. The reference numbers for the complaints to NHTSA cited by the petitioner can be found in the petition submission documents in the public file for DP22-003. To review those complaints and the additional complaints ODI added to its evaluation which are cited in the Closing Resume ODI Report Identification Number document, go to NHTSA.gov.

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 be reviewed at NHTSA.gov under reference (ODI) number 11439675.On November 12, 2021, ODI opened Defect Petition DP21-003 to evaluate the petitioner?s request. ODI performed trend analyses of the VOQs related to vehicle speed control issues for all the subject vehicles and found that none of the 52 Model/Model Year Hyundai/Kia vehicles demonstrated any actionable trend that warranted an investigation.Petitioners submitted 1119 VOQs and non-VOQ cases in which sudden uncommanded acceleration (SUA) or loss of motive power (LOMP) incidents were alleged.For the 1119 reports, 220 were incidents involving crashes, from which 69 subject Hyundai-Kia vehicles were inspected by Hyundai/Kia dealer technicians, Hyundai/Kia engineers, and/or third-party representatives.ODI found the inspections identified no vehicle defects related to the ETC system.Of the 220 crash-involved reports, 13 Event Data Recorder (EDR) records were downloaded successfully and 11 of those indicated driver error: (i.e.) pedal misapplication.A condition where the accelerator pedal is mistakenly applied instead of the brake pedal when the driver wants to stop the vehicle.In addition, ODI reviewed a scientific journal paper published in Forensic Science International in 2016 by Mr. Park et al ., as well as related test videos. ODI does not believe there is any evidence of uncontrollable SUA occurrences in any of the tests reviewed. NHTSA's Office of Vehicle Safety Compliance (OVSC) reviewed the allegations regarding the potential noncompliance with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 124.Based on the information provided, the Agency concludes there is insufficient information for us to determine if a possible non-compliance exists.Finally, both Hyundai and Kia informed ODI that all their vehicles manufactured after 2012 were equipped with an ETC management system, in which the engine speed will go to idle when the system sees signals from both the brake pedal and accelerator pedal at the same time; this is commonly known as the brake-throttle override system.After thoroughly assessing the material submitted by the petitioner, information already in NHTSA's possession, information submitted by Hyundai and Kia in response to an Information Request letter, and the potential risks to safety implicated by the petitioner's allegation, NHTSA does not believe that a formal investigation is warranted. After full consideration of appropriate factors, the petition is denied. A Federal Register Notice (FRN) further detailing NHTSA?s reasons for denial of the petition will be published.

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 District of Columbia: Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, West Virginia, and Wisconsin.Hyundai will also inform dealers to inspect/repair vehicles that were previously registered in salt belt states but are currently registered elsewhere. Hyundai is conducting the recall to remedy a defect involving internal corrosion of the rear sub frame that may lead to separation of the rear upper/lower control arm(s) at their respective mounting points and/or separation of the axle from the transaxle where they meet.This could result in a loss of vehicle control and/or vehicle disablement which may increase the risk of a vehicle crash.In response to NHTSA?s Information Request (IR) letter, Hyundai stated the Azera vehicles utilizes the identical cross member and upper/lower rear control arm components as the subject (Sonata) vehicles.In analysis of both Vehicle Owner Questionnaire (VOQ) data submitted to the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) and consumer complaint data submitted to Hyundai, ODI identified 19 non-duplicative reports alleging excessive corrosion of the rear sub frame. All of the complaint vehicles were either originally sold or registered at the time of the incident in one of the salt belt states.Of these 19 reports, 9 alleged either a suspension component separation or a fracture of the vehicle's rear cross member assembly.Similarly, ODI identified 8 warranty claims of rear sub frame replacement in data submitted by Hyundai due to excessive corrosion, all of which involved vehicles originally sold or operated in a salt belt state. Based on Hyundai's decision to conduct a safety recall, (13V-354) this investigation is closed.The VOQs cited above can be viewed at www-odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/owners/SearchNHTSAID under the following identification numbers: 10535115, 10534110, 10525976, 10524726, 10521520, 10508368, 10505463, 10490073, 10486752, 10486435, 1048354, 10473922, and 10437887.

Crash-test ratings

2010 Hyundai Sonata 4-DR w/SAB NHTSA source

Overall
Not rated
Frontal
Not rated
Side
Not rated
Rollover
Not rated

Source: NHTSA New Car Assessment Program (NCAP).

Fuel economy by trim

TrimEngineDrivetrainCityHwyCombined
Sonata2.4L 4-cylFront-Wheel Drive213225
Sonata2.4L 4-cylFront-Wheel Drive223225
Sonata3.3L 6-cylFront-Wheel Drive192922

EPA laboratory estimates by trim and engine. Actual mileage varies with driving, weather, load, and maintenance. EPA source.

Before you buy

Useful next checks

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Compare the year-by-year record

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2010 Hyundai Sonata: frequently asked

What does the complaint record show for the 2010 Hyundai Sonata?

Owners filed 345 NHTSA complaints about the 2010 Hyundai Sonata. This is raw owner-reported complaint volume with no production or exposure normalization, so it is not a reliability score or a best/worst-year ranking.

What are the most common problems on the 2010 Hyundai Sonata?

The most-reported problem areas are Structure (46% of complaints) and unknown or other (8%).

How many recalls does the 2010 Hyundai Sonata have?

2 recalls have been issued that affect the 2010 Hyundai Sonata, covering components such as suspension. Check the VIN with NHTSA and ask a dealer to confirm remedy eligibility; federal no-charge requirements have an age limit, though manufacturers may offer more coverage.

What gas mileage does the 2010 Hyundai Sonata get?

The EPA rates the 2010 Hyundai Sonata between 22 and 25 mpg combined, depending on trim and drivetrain.