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Hyundai—a leading South Korean automotive brand is well known for its innovative technology, stylish designs, & affordable reliability. Still, even remarkable brands like Hyundai face several challenges globally, with owners reporting issues across different models. Discover the 25 most common Hyundai problems and their practical solutions, from engine troubles to electrical glitches. This comprehensive guide with a quick list and detailed categories ensures stress-free ownership. Let’s dive in and keep your Hyundai running smoothly!
Hyundai’s 25 most common problems and solutions:
Engine Ticking/Knocking
Engine Stalling/Seizure
Turbocharger Failure
Timing Belt/Chain Issues
Fuel Pump Failure
Transmission Gear Slippage
Transmission Hesitation/Lack of Acceleration
Electrical Engine Not Starting
Overheating Electrical Outlets
Blue Link System Shutdown
Infotainment System Glitches
ABS System Fires
Airbag Control Unit Failure
Seat Belts Detaching
Steering Wobbling/Clicking
Suspension Noise/Clunking
Paint Peeling/Fading
Windshield Cracking Easily
Exhaust System Corrosion
AC/Heater Malfunction
Window Regulator Failure
Door Lock Actuator Failure
Rodent Damage to Soy-Based Wiring
Inflated MPG Estimates
Brake System Noise/Grinding
What Happens: A repetitive ticking or knocking noise echoes from the engine, like tapping or banging, during operation. The sound often intensifies when you accelerate. The engine may feel unsteady or lose power.
Possible Reasons: Bearings or internal parts wear down or shift improperly. Low oil levels, skipped maintenance, or manufacturing flaws trigger this.
Impact: Neglecting the issue risks severe engine damage. Repairs can be costly, and the car may become unreliable.
How to fix: Maintain regular oil changes to protect engine components. Schedule a visit to a Hyundai service center for a detailed checkup. Recalls or warranties may cover free repairs or engine replacements.
Affected Models: Elantra (2010–2015), Sonata (2011–2012), Tucson (2011–2015), Santa Fe (2010–2013).
What Happens: The engine suddenly stops running while driving or idling, causing the car to lose power. In severe cases, the engine locks up completely. This can feel abrupt and alarming.
Possible Reasons: Faulty bearings or inadequate lubrication damages internal parts. Poor maintenance or defective components are common culprits.
Impact: Stalling creates dangerous driving situations. A seized engine requires expensive repairs or replacement.
How to fix: Keep up with oil changes and routine maintenance. Contact a Hyundai dealer to inspect for recalls. Warranty-covered engine replacements may be available.
Affected Models: Sonata (2011–2012), Elantra (2010–2014), Santa Fe (2012–2014).
What Happens: The turbocharged engine loses power, struggles to accelerate, or emits unusual noises. Smoke may appear from the exhaust. Performance drops significantly.
Possible Reasons: Oil starvation or debris damages the turbo. Overheating accelerates wear.
Impact: A failed turbo reduces engine efficiency. Repairs are expensive and complex.
How to fix: Follow strict maintenance schedules for turbo models. Use recommended oil types. Have a Hyundai technician inspect and replace faulty turbos.
Affected Models: Veloster (2012–2017), Sonata (2015–2018), Tucson (2016–2019).
What Happens: The engine misfires, runs roughly, or makes rattling noises near the timing cover. Power loss occurs during acceleration. In severe cases, the engine stops.
Possible Reasons: Worn or stretched timing belts/chains disrupt engine timing. Lack of maintenance causes failure.
Impact: A broken belt/chain can destroy the engine. Repairs are costly and extensive.
How to fix: Replace the timing belt/chain per the owner’s manual schedule. Have a Hyundai mechanic inspect it during maintenance. Address noises immediately.
Affected Models: Sonata (2006–2014), Elantra (2006–2013), Santa Fe (2006–2012).
What Happens: The car sputters, hesitates, or stalls, especially at low speeds. Starting becomes difficult or impossible. Fuel delivery feels inconsistent.
Possible Reasons: Clogged or worn fuel pumps fail to deliver gas properly. Contaminated fuel accelerates wear.
Impact: Stalling strands drivers and risks accidents. Pump replacement is costly.
Solution: Use high-quality fuel to prevent clogs. Have a Hyundai mechanic test and replace the pump. Check for recalls covering fuel systems.
Affected Models: Sonata (2011–2015), Elantra (2010–2014), Santa Fe (2012–2016).
What Happens: The car struggles to stay in gear, causing unexpected shifts or a slipping sensation. Acceleration feels weak or inconsistent. This often occurs while driving.
Possible Reasons: Worn transmission components or low fluid levels disrupt gear engagement. Manufacturing defects also contribute.
Impact: Gear slippage reduces driving control. It can lead to transmission failure if ignored.
How to fix: Check and replace transmission fluid regularly. Visit a Hyundai service center for diagnostic tests. Recalls may offer free repairs for affected models.
Affected Models: Tucson (2016–2018), Sonata (2015–2017), Veloster (2012–2016).
What Happens: The vehicle pauses or delays when you press the gas pedal, making acceleration sluggish. Merging onto highways feels unresponsive. The car may jerk during shifts.
Possible Reasons: Faulty transmission software or worn clutches cause delays. Fluid contamination worsens the problem.
Impact: Hesitation creates unsafe driving conditions. Transmission damage may require costly fixes.
How to fix: Ensure transmission fluid is clean and at proper levels. Seek a Hyundai technician for software updates or repairs. Check for applicable recalls.
Affected Models: Tucson (2016–2019), Sonata (2014–2016), Elantra (2016–2018).
What Happens: The car refuses to start when you turn the key or push the button. Dashboard lights may flicker or stay off. This can happen randomly or repeatedly.
Possible Reasons: Faulty wiring or a weak battery disrupts the starting system. Defective components like starters fail.
Impact: A non-starting car strands drivers. Repeated issues signal deeper electrical problems.
How to fix: Test the battery and replace it if weak. Have a Hyundai mechanic inspect the wiring and starters. Recalls may address specific electrical faults.
Affected Models: Elantra (2011–2015), Sonata (2010–2014), Santa Fe (2013–2016).
What Happens: Power outlets, like those for chargers, get unusually hot during use. Devices may stop charging properly. A burning smell might occur.
Possible Reasons: Overloaded circuits or faulty wiring causes excessive heat. Poor outlet design exacerbates this.
Impact: Overheating risks electrical fires. Damaged outlets require replacement.
How to fix: Avoid using high-power devices in car outlets. Inspect outlets at a Hyundai service center. Recalls may cover free repairs for faulty wiring.
Affected Models: Sonata (2011–2015), Elantra (2010–2014), Tucson (2011–2016).
What Happens: The Blue Link telematics system stops working, disabling features like remote start or GPS. Notifications prompt subscription renewals. Functionality halts without payment.
Possible Reasons: Blue Link requires an active subscription. Non-payment deactivates services.
Impact: Loss of convenience features frustrates drivers. Subscriptions add ongoing costs.
How to fix: Decide if Blue Link features justify the cost. Renew the subscription if needed. Opt out and use alternative GPS or remote systems.
Affected Models: Various with Blue Link (2015–2020), including Sonata, Tucson, Santa Fe.
What Happens: The infotainment screen freezes, reboots, or displays errors. Bluetooth disconnects frequently, and navigation fails. Controls may stop responding.
Possible Reasons: Software bugs disrupt system performance. Outdated firmware causes glitches.
Impact: Glitches frustrate drivers and reduce functionality. Repairs can be costly.
How to fix: Update infotainment software regularly through Hyundai’s website. Reset the unit if frozen. Visit a dealer for hardware replacements.
Affected Models: Sonata (2015–2019), Tucson (2016–2020), Santa Fe (2014–2018).
What Happens: The anti-lock brake system (ABS) module sparks or catches fire, often when parked. Smoke or flames may appear under the hood. This is a serious safety hazard.
Possible Reasons: Water leaks into the ABS module, causing short circuits. Corrosion worsens the issue.
Impact: Fires can destroy the vehicle. They pose risks to passengers and property.
How to fix: Respond to ABS-related recalls promptly. Ensure the module is sealed during maintenance. Contact Hyundai for free recall repairs.
Affected Models: Azera (2006–2011), Sonata (2006–2010), Elantra (2006–2011), Santa Fe Sport (2013–2015).
What Happens: Airbags fail to deploy during a crash, leaving occupants unprotected. Warning lights on the dashboard may signal this issue. Seat belts may also malfunction.
Possible Reasons: Defective control units misread crash data. Manufacturing errors cause this.
Impact: Non-deploying airbags increase injury risks. Safety systems become unreliable.
How to fix: Check for airbag recalls on Hyundai’s website. Visit a dealership for free control unit replacement. Regularly test warning lights.
Affected Models: Sonata (2006–2014), Elantra (2009–2013), Azera (2009–2011).
What Happens: Seat belts come loose or detach during a crash, failing to restrain occupants. Buckles may feel insecure. Warning lights might activate.
Possible Reasons: Faulty buckles or attachment points weaken over time. Design flaws contribute.
Impact: Detached seat belts increase injury risks. Safety is compromised.
How to fix: Inspect seat belts regularly for secure fastening. Respond to recalls for free replacements. Visit a Hyundai dealer for repairs.
Affected Models: Sonata (2006–2014), Elantra (2009–2013), Santa Fe (2007–2012).
What Happens: The steering wheel shakes or wobbles while driving, especially at low speeds. A clicking noise occurs when turning. Handling feels loose or unstable.
Possible Reasons: Worn steering components, like couplings, loosen over time. Misalignment contributes.
Impact: Poor steering reduces driving control. Accidents become more likely.
How to fix: Schedule a steering system inspection at a Hyundai dealer. Replace worn parts promptly. Align wheels regularly to prevent wear.
Affected Models: Sonata (2011–2015), Elantra (2010–2014), Santa Fe (2012–2016).
What Happens: The car makes clunking or rattling noises over bumps or rough roads. Handling feels loose or bouncy. Ride comfort decreases noticeably.
Possible Reasons: Worn shocks or struts lose damping ability. Loose suspension parts rattle.
Impact: Poor suspension affects handling and safety. Repairs become necessary to restore comfort.
How to fix: Inspect the suspension every 20,000 miles at a Hyundai service center. Replace worn shocks or struts promptly. Tighten loose components.
Affected Models: Tucson (2010–2016), Santa Fe (2009–2015), Elantra (2011–2016).
What Happens: The car’s paint peels off in patches, exposing bare metal. Colors fade unevenly under sunlight. This often affects hoods and roofs.
Possible Reasons: UV exposure weakens self-healing paint. Poor coating application causes peeling.
Impact: Peeling paint lowers resale value. Exposed metal risks rusting.
How to fix: Wax the car regularly to protect the paint. Seek professional repainting for severe cases. Use car covers for UV protection.
Affected Models: Santa Fe (2006–2016), Sonata (2006–2014), Elantra (2006–2013).
What Happens: The windshield develops cracks or chips from minor impacts, like small pebbles. Cracks spread quickly across the glass. Visibility may worsen.
Possible Reasons: Thin or low-quality glass is prone to damage. Temperature changes stress the windshield.
Impact: Cracked windshields impair vision and safety. Replacement costs add up.
How to fix: Apply protective film to strengthen the windshield. Replace damaged glass promptly at a Hyundai service center. Avoid extreme temperature shifts.
Affected Models: Tucson (2010–2016), Elantra (2009–2015), Sonata (2011–2015).
What Happens: The exhaust system rusts, causing loud noises or rattling during driving. Holes or leaks may form. Exhaust fumes might enter the cabin.
Possible Reasons: Moisture and road salt corrode metal pipes. Poor coatings worsen rust.
Impact: A damaged exhaust increases noise and emissions. It fails safety inspections.
How to fix: Inspect the exhaust annually for rust. Replace corroded parts at a Hyundai service center. Apply rust-resistant coatings for protection.
Affected Models: Sonata (2006–2010), Santa Fe (2006–2013), Elantra (2006–2012).
What Happens: The air conditioner blows warm air or fails to cool the cabin. The heater produces weak or no heat. Strange noises may come from vents.
Possible Reasons: Low refrigerant or a faulty compressor disrupts cooling. Blower motor failures affect heating.
Impact: Cabin discomfort affects driving experience. Repairs can be costly.
How to fix: Check refrigerant levels and refill if low. Have a Hyundai technician repair compressors or blowers. Schedule regular HVAC maintenance.
Affected Models: Santa Fe (2010–2016), Elantra (2011–2015), Sonata (2012–2016).
What Happens: Power windows stick, move slowly, or stop working entirely. Windows may drop unexpectedly. Clicking noises occur when operating controls.
Possible Reasons: Worn or broken regulators fail to lift windows. Electrical faults contribute.
Impact: Stuck windows reduce convenience and security. Weather exposure becomes an issue.
How to fix: Avoid forcing stuck windows to prevent further damage. Replace faulty regulators at a Hyundai dealer. Check for warranty coverage.
Affected Models: Sonata (2006–2014), Elantra (2009–2015), Tucson (2010–2016).
What Happens: Doors fail to lock or unlock using the key fob or buttons. Locks may stick or make grinding noises. Manual locking becomes necessary.
Possible Reasons: Actuators wear out or short-circuit over time. Moisture exposure accelerates failure.
Impact: Faulty locks reduce security and convenience. Thieves may exploit weak locks.
How to fix: Test locks regularly and replace faulty actuators at a Hyundai dealer. Keep doors dry to prevent corrosion. Check warranty options.
Affected Models: Sonata (2006–2015), Elantra (2009–2014), Santa Fe (2010–2016).
What Happens: Rodents chew through electrical wires, causing malfunctions like lights failing or the car not starting. Chew marks or nests appear under the hood. This happens in parked cars.
Possible Reasons: Soy-based wire coatings attract rodents. Eco-friendly materials are less durable.
Impact: Chewed wires cause electrical failures. Repairs can be expensive and frequent.
How to fix: Install rodent-repellent tape or sprays around wires. Park in enclosed spaces when possible. Have a Hyundai technician repair damaged wiring.
Affected Models: Various (2012–2020), including Elantra, Tucson, Sonata.
What Happens: The car’s fuel economy falls short of advertised miles-per-gallon (MPG) ratings. Drivers notice higher fuel costs. Real-world driving yields lower efficiency.
Possible Reasons: Manufacturer tests overestimate MPG under ideal conditions. Driving habits vary in results.
Impact: Owners spend more on fuel. Trust in the brand may decrease.
How to fix: Track real-world MPG to set expectations. Drive efficiently, like avoiding rapid acceleration. Check for EPA-related compensation programs.
Affected Models: Various (2011–2013), including Sonata, Elantra, Tucson.
What Happens: Brakes squeal or grind loudly when applied, especially at low speeds. Stopping feels rough or less responsive. Pedal vibration may occur.
Possible Reasons: Worn brake pads or rotors create friction noise. Debris buildup worsens it.
Impact: Noisy brakes signal wear, risking reduced stopping power. Repairs become urgent.
How to fix: Inspect brakes every 10,000 miles at a Hyundai service center. Replace worn pads or rotors promptly. Clean brakes to remove debris.
Affected Models: Elantra (2010–2016), Sonata (2011–2015), Tucson (2011–2017).
Hyundai’s innovative designs and reliability shine in the recent models. However, older models still face some of the above-mentioned challenges, despite now being largely improved in recent years, with fewer reported issues. Our guide covers 25 common Hyundai problems and their solutions, helping you maintain a seamless driving experience. Encountered a different issue or found a fix besides the aforementioned? Share your story in the comments below! For ongoing peace of mind, check for recalls at your Hyundai dealer & seek professional assistance for fixes rather than DIYs to keep your Hyundai running smoothly.
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