Recalls · problems · safety

2016 Hyundai Sonata: recalls and problems

8 recalls and 881 owner complaints on file with NHTSA. The most-reported problem area is engine.

8recalls
881complaints
23crashes reported
31fires reported
20injuries reported

Recalls

Check recalls for your exact VIN

Most common problems

  • Engine538 · 61%
  • Electrical System133 · 15%
  • Unknown Or Other114 · 13%
  • Power Train76 · 9%
  • Service Brakes49 · 6%
  • Exterior Lighting44 · 5%
  • Fuel/Propulsion System42 · 5%
  • Steering35 · 4%
  • Vehicle Speed Control34 · 4%
  • Structure33 · 4%

What owners report

Electrical System

Backup vision system failed. couldn't see vision because screen was blank. radio didn't work either. went to dealership with the problem they said it was not covered by the warranty. paid to have it fixed.

Engine

The vehicle experienced a theta ii engine failure at under 57,830 miles while driving on northbound [xxx] near the [xxx] parkway u-turn in [xxx]. the engine made a loud noise and lost power. i was able to coast to the far right side of the u-turn under the bridge. i called hero (austin's emergency roadside assistance). they responded, determined it was not a battery issue, and pushed the vehicle to the southern leisu

Engine

I am concerned that the engine may seize or stall without warning while driving, creating a risk of crash, injury, or death. the theta ii engine defect is known to cause engine seizure, stalling, and fire. hyundai has denied warranty coverage based on mileage and second-owner status — both of which are explicitly prohibited as denial grounds under the settlement — leaving me driving an unsafe vehicle.

Power Train,Electrical System

Vehicle impact:while driving, the vehicle suddenly displayed a "check hybrid system" warning on the dashboard and suffered a complete, sudden loss of propulsion while on the road. the vehicle dropped power completely and would not restart, creating an immediate, severe safety hazard to myself and surrounding traffic.diagnostic & component confirmation:the vehicle was towed to a certified hyundai dealership (hyundai o

Excerpts from complaints filed with NHTSA. They are owner reports and have not been verified.

Crash-test ratings

VersionOverallFrontalSideRollover
2016 Hyundai Sonata 4 DR FWD★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★

Source: NHTSA recalls, complaints and NCAP APIs, covering SONATA HYBRID, SONATA, SONATA PLUG-IN. Last refreshed 2026-09-29.