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    GREEN CHOICE

    Hyundai Sonata Hybrid

    EPA MPG: 42 mpg

    RECALL ALERT:
    There are 5 recalls on this vehicle. Learn More.

    Reliability

    Overall Reliability

    The 2016 Sonata Hybrid is less reliable than other cars from the same model year.

    The 2016 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid has been recalled 5 times by NHTSA. View Recalls
    Most Common Trouble Spots
    Common Trouble Spot
    Common Trouble Spot

    Owner Reported Trouble Spots

    The Reliability score is based on our latest subscriber survey of 2016 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid owners. The owner comments describe problems respondents experienced with this vehicle.

    Exhaust

    Muffler, pipes, catalytic converter, exhaust manifold, heat shields, leaks.

    What Owners Say

    Other/unsure

    "Just about every year the crank shaft and stability control sensors have gone out on my vehicle"

    Anonymous, MD (2016 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid Hybrid 2.0-L 4 Cyl hybrid)

    "2 Faulty ignition coils."

    Anonymous, SC (2016 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid Hybrid 2.0-L 4 Cyl hybrid)

    ""water pump for hybrid system $1,600 dealer repair""

    Anonymous, CA (2016 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid Hybrid 2.0-L 4 Cyl plug-in hybrid)

    ""A message warning of something that threatened the viability of the hybrid system (and a "check engine" light) told us to turn off the car immediately. After 10 minutes, we were able to start the car again, by which time the message had disappeared, but the check engine light stayed on for the rest of the day. The local Hyundai dealer couldn't get us for 3 months, so we took it to AAA who determined that it was the water pump and a thermostat. We were told that, as a hybrid, the water pump is buried deep within the engine, so it cost us altogether over $2,100, and we had a rental car (paid for by AAA) for about a week while the repairs were done.""

    Anonymous, AZ (2016 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid Hybrid 2.0-L 4 Cyl hybrid)

    Engine Major

    Engine rebuild or replacement, cylinder head, head gasket, turbocharger or supercharger, timing chain or belt.

    What Owners Say

    Cylinder head

    "Cylinder head scoring"

    Anonymous, CA (2016 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid Hybrid 2.0-L 4 Cyl hybrid)
    Engine rebuild or replacement

    "The car power just shut off on the freeway and I slowly cruised to shoulder. Lots of alerts and beeping. Engine had some sort of failure and had to be replaced via a warranty thank goodness."

    Anonymous A., CA (2016 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid Hybrid 2.0-L 4 Cyl hybrid)

    ""there was a recall on the engine. It wasnt working properly. They tried to charge me for it, but my former dealer back in Chicago tow Jenkins Hyundai of Jacksonville that I was covered and it should be free for me to have this done. Thank God they contacted me. It wouldve cost me $9000 to replace the engine and Im talking only the cost of the eand . Labor was separate.""

    Anonymous, FL (2016 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid Hybrid 2.0-L 4 Cyl hybrid)

    Noises/Leaks

    Squeaks, rattles, wind noises, seals and/or weather stripping, air and water leaks.

    What Owners Say

    Squeaks or rattles

    "The front suspension is shot and needs to be replaced. The parts are only available through Hyundai I have found."

    Anonymous A., CA (2016 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid Hybrid 2.0-L 4 Cyl hybrid)

    Engine Cooling

    Radiator, cooling fan, water pump, thermostat, antifreeze leaks, overheating.

    What Owners Say

    Cooling fan

    ""because of the heat in the summer of 2023, my fan that cool the engine melted it plus other parts. Hyundais estimate was $1023.52 for the part I managed to go to a junkyard purchase one for $268.75 and head Jenkins Hyundai of Jacksonville put it in my car at that point I had to pay for labor, which wasnt that expensive after arguing with them for a day or two.""

    Anonymous, FL (2016 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid Hybrid 2.0-L 4 Cyl hybrid)

    EV Battery

    What Owners Say

    Electric/hybrid battery pack cooling problem

    "A coolant line started leaking. Lost all coolant. No warning until empty. Dealer replaced line or clamp. No issues since."

    Anonymous, IA (2016 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid Hybrid 2.0-L 4 Cyl hybrid)

    Electrical Accessories

    Cruise control, clock, warning lights, body control module, keyless entry, wiper motor or washer, tire pressure monitor, interior or exterior lights, horn, gauges, 12V power plug, USB ports, alarm or security system, remote engine start, heated or cooled seats, heated steering wheel, headlights, automatic headlights, automatic wipers, wireless charging pad.

    Climate System

    AC compressor, blower (fan) motor, condenser, evaporator, heater system, automatic climate system, electrical failure, refrigerant leakage.

    Engine Electrical

    Alternator, starter, hybrid battery replacement, hybrid battery related systems, regular battery, battery cables, engine harness, coil, ignition switch, electronic ignition, spark plugs and wires failure, auto stop/start.

    Fuel System/Emissions

    Sensors (O₂, or oxygen, sensor), emission-control devices (includes EGR), fuel-injection system, fuel gauge/sender, fuel pump, problems filling up the tank.

    Suspension/Steering

    Shocks or struts, ball joints, tie rods, wheel bearings, alignment, steering linkage (includes rack and pinion), power steering (pumps and hoses, leaks), wheel balance, springs or torsion bars, bushings, electronic or air suspension.

    In-car Electronics

    Infotainment system (audio, GPS, phone), rear entertainment system, backup or other camera/sensors, head-up display.

    Brakes

    Premature pad/rotor wear, pulsation or vibration, antilock system, parking brake, master cylinder, calipers, squeaking, brake failure, regenerative braking.

    Body Hardware

    Windows, locks and latches, doors or sliding doors, tailgate, trunk or hatch, mirrors, seat controls (power or manual), seat belts, sunroof, convertible top, glass defect.

    Drive System

    Driveshaft or axle, CV joint, differential, transfer case, four-wheel-drive/all-wheel-drive components, driveline vibration, electrical failure, traction control, electronic stability control.

    Transmission Major

    Transmission rebuild or replacement, torque converter, premature clutch replacement.

    Transmission Minor

    Gear selector and linkage, transmission computer, transmission sensor or solenoid, clutch adjustment, rough shifting, slipping transmission, leaks.

    Paint/Trim

    Paint (fading, chalking, peeling, or cracking), loose interior or exterior trim or moldings, rust.

    Engine Minor

    Accessory belts and pulleys, engine computer, engine mounts, engine knock or ping, fuel leaks, oil leaks.

    2016 Sedans & Hatchbacks Reliability

    This Car
    vs. Similar Cars

    Hyundai vs. Other New Car Brands Reliability

    Reliability History
    * Redesign year
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    Overall Reliability Verdict
    NA
    NA
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    NA

    NA
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    POTENTIAL TROUBLE SPOTS
    Powertrain
    NA
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    NA
    Electric Motor
    NA
    NA
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    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    EV Battery
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Engine Major
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
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    NA
    NA
    NA
    Engine Minor
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Engine Cooling
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Engine Electrical
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
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    NA
    Transmission Major
    NA
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    NA
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    NA
    NA
    Transmission Minor
    NA
    NA
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    NA
    NA
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    NA
    NA
    NA
    Drive System
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Fuel System/Emissions
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Exhaust
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Suspension/Steering
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Brakes
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Climate System
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Build Quality
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Electrical Accessories
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Body Hardware
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Paint/Trim
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Noises/Leaks
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    In-car Electronics
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Reliability indicates how models have performed in the past, providing the basis for predicting how the vehicles will hold up in the year ahead. These charts provide the most comprehensive reliability information available to consumers. Based on information received from our latest subscriber survey for about 380,000 vehicles, our reliability history charts give you a rundown on how 2000 through 2025 vehicles are holding up in 20 potential trouble spots, ranging from the engine, transmission, electric motor, EV charging, and brakes, to power equipment and the electrical accessories.
    Recalls
    PROVIDED BY
    ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, EXTERIOR LIGHTING
    Sep 24, 2021
    A turn signal that activates in the opposite direction of what was intended by the driver increases the risk of a crash.
    Summary:
    Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2015-2017 Sonata, 2016-2017 Sonata Hybrid, and Sonata Plug-In Hybrid vehicles. The Smart Junction Box (SJB) software logic may not properly interpret the signals received from the multifunction switch, which could cause the turn signal to activate in the opposite direction of what the driver intended.
    What should you do:
    Dealers will update the SJB software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed November 19, 2021. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 210.
    For more information:
    Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.nhtsa.gov.
    NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 21V749000
    Potential Number of Units Affected: 469377
    LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
    Aug 06, 2021
    A person inside the trunk compartment may become trapped, increasing their risk of injury.
    Summary:
    Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2017-2018 Sonata, 2016-2018 Sonata Hybrid, 2018-2020 Accent, and 2016-2017 Azera vehicles. The trunk latch may become damaged, preventing the opening of the trunk from the inside. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 401, "Internal Trunk Release."
    What should you do:
    Dealers will replace the trunk latch base, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 4, 2021. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 208.
    For more information:
    Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.nhtsa.gov.
    NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 21V619000
    Potential Number of Units Affected: 348158
    ENGINE
    Dec 01, 2020
    A damaged engine can increase the risk of a fire or it can cause an engine stall, increasing the risk of a crash.
    Summary:
    Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2015-2016 Veloster, 2012 Santa Fe, 2011-2013 Sonata Hybrid, and 2016 Sonata Hybrid vehicles. The connecting rod bearings inside the engine may wear prematurely, which over time can result in engine damage.
    What should you do:
    Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the engine. If bearing damage is found, the engine will be replaced. Dealers will also install a software update containing a new Knock Sensor Detection System (KSDS). Repairs will be performed free of charge. The recall began March 31, 2021. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 198.
    For more information:
    Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
    NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 20V746000
    Potential Number of Units Affected: 128948
    VISIBILITY
    Oct 11, 2016
    If the sunroof detaches from the vehicle it could become a road hazard, increasing the risk of a crash.
    Summary:
    Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain model year 2015-2016 Sonata Hybrid vehicles manufactured December 8, 2014, to August 18, 2015, and Hyundai Sonata vehicles manufactured May 28, 2014, to March 18, 2016, equipped with the panoramic sunroof option. Due to a bonding issue with the sunroof wind deflector, the sunroof panel on the affected vehicles may detach while driving.
    What should you do:
    Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will repair the wind deflector anchor plate, free of charge. The recall began December 2016. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-800-633-5151. Hyundai's number for this recall is 152.
    For more information:
    Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
    NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 16V726000
    Potential Number of Units Affected: 62811
    AIR BAGS
    Apr 21, 2016
    An air bag that does not inflate increases the risk of injury.
    Summary:
    Hyundai Motor Company (Hyundai) is recalling certain model year 2015-2016 Sonata vehicles manufactured May 29, 2014 to February 11, 2016, 2017 Elantra vehicles manufactured January 12, 2016 to February 22, 2016, and one 2016 Sonata Hybrid vehicle manufactured October 15, 2015. In these vehicles, the driver's frontal air bag may be missing a chemical enhancer required for the second stage air bag deployment, resulting in the second stage not deploying in certain crashes. The primary stage will deploy as intended.
    What should you do:
    Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will replace the driver's frontal air bag module, free of charge. The recall began on May 5,2016. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 144.
    For more information:
    Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
    NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 16V232000
    Potential Number of Units Affected: 33
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