2014 Hyundai Sonata: sudden loss of power

Filed Aug 20, 2026 · Engine · VA

The vehicle suffered an abrupt, internal engine seizure while operating in active traffic at highway speeds. This sudden loss of power created an immediate crash hazard, as the vehicle decelerated rapidly in the travel lane, narrowly avoiding a rear-end collision and putting my family and other motorists at extreme risk. The vehicle was towed immediately to an authorized Hyundai dealership service center where it is currently awaiting the physical recall inspection. Prior to the complete engine failure, there were no warning lights, abnormal gauge readings, dashboard messages, or noticeable performance symptoms. The engine seized completely without warning. The vehicle has an open, uncompleted Federal Safety Recall 162 (the federal safety agency Campaign Number: 16V729000) for this exact engine manufacturing defect and bearing failure.

Filed May 31, 2026 · Engine, Fuel system · PA

I am submitting this complaint regarding a serious safety issue involving my Hyundai Sonata. While driving under normal conditions, my vehicle suddenly entered a low-power ("limp") mode without warning. The vehicle would not accelerate beyond approximately 30–35 mph, creating a potentially hazardous situation in traffic. At the same time, the check engine light began blinking. The sudden loss of power significantly reduced my ability to maintain traffic speed and safely maneuver the vehicle. This condition could have increased the risk of a rear-end collision or other accident. I brought the vehicle to an authorized Hyundai dealership (Fred Beans Honda Of Abington PH# 215‑392‑9020) for diagnosis. The dealership confirmed that the vehicle stored Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) P1326, related to the Knock Sensor Detection System (KSDS). According to the dealership, the vehicle entered limp mode as a result of this fault. The abrupt reduction in vehicle power and speed occurred without sufficient warning and created a safety concern. I am reporting this incident so that the federal safety agency can investigate whether this condition represents a broader safety defect affecting Hyundai Sonata vehicles equipped with the KSDS system. Vehicle Information: Make: Hyundai Model: Sonata Model Year: 2014 I request that the federal safety agency review this issue and evaluate whether additional action is warranted regarding vehicles experiencing DTC P1326 and associated limp-mode operation.

Filed May 5, 2026 · Engine · NC

Vehicle Information: Year/Make/Model: 2014 Hyundai Sonata Mileage: less than 120,000 miles Ownership: Second owner Complaint: I am filing a complaint regarding a serious engine failure in my 2014 Hyundai Sonata. My vehicle experienced issues beginning with a faulty knock sensor, which escalated into complete engine failure. This issue appears to be identical to problems that have already been identified in recalls involving similar Hyundai Sonata models. Despite experiencing the same symptoms and failure pattern, my specific VIN is not included in the recall. My vehicle has been well maintained, has under 120,000 miles, and should not have experienced a total engine failure under normal conditions. Based on the known recall issues related to engine defects and knock sensor failures, I believe my vehicle is affected by the same underlying defect. I am concerned that vehicles like mine are being excluded from the recall despite having identical safety-related issues. Engine failure while driving presents a serious safety risk, including potential loss of power, stalling, or inability to accelerate in traffic. I have had the car looked by a professional and advised of the engine failure and this is a common issue with this make and model.

Filed Feb 17, 2026 · Electrical · GA

Odometer Fraud. The contact owns a 2014 Hyundai Sonata. The contact purchased the vehicle on April 28, 2025, with 28,974 miles from a dealer. On January 20, 2026, while attempting to start the vehicle after being parked for a while, the vehicle lost power and failed to start. The contact walked to an AutoZone nearby, where a mechanic diagnosed that the battery and starter needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired while with the mechanic, and the contact was informed that the actual mileage on the vehicle was 170,123. The contact reported the issue to the dealer and was informed that it would be investigated; however, the contact had not received any additional information. The dealer had taken possession of the vehicle and informed the contact that payments were still expected despite the odometer discrepancy. The manufacturer was informed of the failure and the odometer discrepancy. The failure mileage was not provided.

Filed Jan 16, 2026 · Electrical, Engine · OH

While driving with my family on a busy freeway at approximately 70 mph, our vehicle suddenly displayed a loud, urgent warning: “Hybrid System Warning – Safely Stop and Do Not Drive!” At the same moment, the car lost the ability to accelerate without any prior signs of trouble. We were extremely fortunate to have enough momentum to coast to the shoulder and shut the vehicle off, unsure of how serious the issue might be. Being stranded without warning on a high‑speed highway put my entire family in a dangerous situation. After a few minutes, we restarted the car to see if we could at least get it off the freeway. The warning had disappeared, and the vehicle drove normally, allowing us to take back roads home. The lack of any prior symptoms makes this even more concerning. Losing acceleration at highway speeds with no warning is a major safety hazard. We took the vehicle to a dealership immediately, but because the warning light was no longer active, they were unable to diagnose the problem. A few days later, the same warning appeared again—this time only a couple minutes from home. I turned around immediately for safety, parked the car, and once again the warning disappeared as soon as the vehicle was shut off. At this point, we have a car sitting in our driveway that we do not feel safe driving. The dealership cannot identify or repair the issue unless the warning is active, & even then, they cannot guarantee that a diagnostic code will appear. After researching this problem online, it’s clear that many other Hyundai owners are experiencing the same issue, often spending thousands of dollars without a definitive fix. Despite how common & dangerous this problem appears to be, there are no recalls & no consistent guidance from dealerships. This situation is unacceptable from a safety standpoint. A vehicle that can suddenly lose power at highway speeds—with no warning and no reliable way to diagnose the cause—poses a serious risk to EVERYONE and needs to be investigated

Filed Jan 11, 2026 · Engine · NC

The engine failed in my 2014 Hyundai Sonata for the 2nd time while driving in evening traffic on a major interstate with my elderly father in the car with me. The engine completely shut down while in mid drive on the interstate with no power. The engine and oil lamp indicators immediately came on right before the engine lost power on the interstate. This caused my safety and the safety of my father to be put at risk by not being able to have any power while in the lane of evening traffic. My vehicle was towed to the nearby Hyundai dealership, Modern Hyundai of Concord, where their service department conducted inspection of the engine issue and where it was kept for 4 months with no repairs made per the orders of Hyundai Motor America. Hyundai Motor America refused to honor their own warranty to replace the engine (engine in need of replacement for the 2nd time).

Filed Dec 16, 2025 · Engine · TX

The vehicle experienced a sudden engine failure and loss of power while traveling at freeway speed. Two days earlier, the vehicle had been taken to an authorized dealership for factory recall service. During that visit, concerns were raised about known engine issues associated with this model, but the vehicle was returned to service. While driving on the freeway, the engine abruptly stalled without warning, causing immediate loss of propulsion and power. This created a dangerous situation in moving traffic, requiring rapid maneuvering to avoid a collision and safely exit traffic lanes. The vehicle became inoperable and could not be restarted. The failed component appears to be the engine or related internal engine system. The vehicle was towed back to the dealership following the incident and has remained inoperable since that time. The vehicle is currently available for inspection. The failure placed the driver at significant risk due to the sudden loss of power at highway speed. No collision occurred, but the risk of serious injury or death was present. The problem has not been reproduced because the vehicle has remained disabled since the incident. The dealership and manufacturer have inspected the vehicle after the failure. The manufacturer is reviewing the incident under an internal process. There were no prior warning lights, messages, or symptoms indicating imminent engine failure before the stall. The failure occurred suddenly and without advance notice.

Filed Nov 24, 2025 · Electrical · CT

The High-Voltage (HV) Hybrid Battery Pack Assembly failed, resulting in a system shutdown and the required replacement. The primary code is DTC P0A80 ("Replace Hybrid Battery Pack"), which indicates an internal manufacturing or design flaw, specifically a weak battery module or compromised internal connection, not normal wear. The defective component (the high-voltage battery) is currently at and is available for inspection. The entire vehicle is also compromised by the Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) Module defect (the federal safety agency Recall 23V-651000). My safety was put at risk in two primary ways: 1. Immediate Loss of Power: The hybrid system failure resulted in a loss of drivetrain power, rendering the vehicle nearly immobile. This occurred on at approximately mph, placing me at high risk of a collision. 2. Latent Fire Risk: My vehicle is covered under the federal safety agency ID 23V-651000 fire risk recall due to the ABS module. Hyundai specifically advised owners of these vehicles to "park their vehicles outside and away from structures" until the remedy is complete, confirming the severity of the latent fire hazard. The failure of the secondary HV battery system occurred within this already dangerous, electrically unstable environment. Yes, the vehicle was inspected by the Hyundai dealership / independent shop at the time of failure.. The manufacturer's corporate division has been contacted and is aware of the defect and the resulting $10,000 replacement estimate, as they offered a 50% "goodwill" subsidy which I am rejecting, asserting 100% coverage is required for a defect. Yes. The primary preceding warning was the intermittent appearance of the "Check Hybrid System, Turn off engine" warning.

Filed Jul 15, 2025 · Fuel system · FL · fire

After having work done to repair the head gasket and spark plug. I was on mile ~300 after repairs and was nearing to fill up at a gas station, I started losing power and notice the check engine light was on and Gas smell filled the cabin. When I stopped the hood started smoking and there was a fire under the engine cover. My Vin is not listed on the fuel line recalls and I believe this is an oversite as it lists, faulty High Pressure hose can rupture and cause engine fires and that is exactly what happen in my case. I believe this Vin was Overlooked and I need the repairs complete. I have not completed any repairs because I believe this should have been recalled.

Filed Jul 9, 2025 · Engine · MD

My engine seized and I lost power. This is the second engine this has happened to. I was given a extended warranty, but Hyundai is refusing to pay for a new engine. The mechanic advised me they are replacing engines three times a week. Mine was denied even though my engine only has 76,000 miles and my warranty is still good. This engine problem should be a new recall since the same problem is still occurring. The engine light did come on blinking. When I took it to the dealer. They knew the problem before looking at my engine since so many others need to have thiers replaced. The dealership confirmed i need a new engine. They made me send in my oil changes. They were upset I didn't have any oil receipts for my previous engine even thought it was replaced at a Hyundai dealership the first time. Consumers should not have to replace two engines. This is a safety concern with it losing power so quickly.

Filed Jul 7, 2025 · Electrical, Engine · CA

Dear Sir/Madam, I am writing to file a formal safety complaint regarding a dangerous incident involving my Hyundai Sonata Hybrid (VIN: [XXX] ) and Hyundai Motor America’s failure to fully correct the issue. Incident Summary: While driving on the freeway, the vehicle suddenly displayed the following alarming warnings: “Hybrid System Warning! Safely Stop and Do Not Drive” “Check Charging System” Immediately after these messages appeared, the car lost all power and shut down in the middle of the road. I had my two young children (ages XXX and XXX) in the car, making the situation extremely unsafe and traumatic. The vehicle lost all mobility and provided no opportunity to safely pull over. After contacting Hyundai Corporate multiple times, a case manager was eventually assigned to my case. At Hyundai’s request, I towed the vehicle to AutoNation Hyundai Valencia for diagnostic evaluation. The dealership diagnosed the issue as error code P0A78, indicating a transmission failure. Hyundai Corporate offered to cover 60% of the repair cost, leaving me responsible for the remaining 40%—an amount that exceeds the current value of the vehicle. This proposed resolution is not reasonable considering the severity of the safety risk and the vehicle’s low mileage. My primary concern is that this is an extremely dangerous defect, as the vehicle loses all power without warning, leaving the driver unable to move the car to a safe location. Requested Actions: A formal investigation into the safety and reliability of Hyundai’s hybrid systems, specifically in 2014 Sonata Hybrid vehicles. A determination of whether this defect qualifies under Hyundai’s warranty or federal safety defect regulations. Full compensation from Hyundai Corporate to cover 100% of the repair costs to correct this serious safety issue. Thank you for your time and attention to this critical matter. I look forward to your prompt response and appropriate action. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5

Filed Jun 14, 2025 · Electrical, Transmission · CA

Formal Complaint – Hybrid System Failure, Safety Risk (VIN: [XXX] | Hyundai Case #[XXX]) Dear Sir/Madam, I am writing to file a formal safety complaint regarding a dangerous incident involving my Hyundai hybrid vehicle (VIN: [XXX] ) and Hyundai Motor America's failure to respond meaningfully to repeated requests for assistance. Incident Summary: On [XXX], while driving with my two young children (ages [XXX] and [XXX] ), my vehicle suddenly displayed the following critical warnings: “Hybrid System Warning! Safely Stop and Do Not Drive” “Check Charging System” Immediately after these messages appeared, the car lost all power and came to a complete stop in the middle of the road. This created an extremely hazardous and distressing situation for me and my family. Although the vehicle is a few years old, it has very low mileage (38,345 miles), and I did not expect such a catastrophic failure. I submitted a report to Hyundai Customer Support on May 30, 2025 (Case #[XXX]) and followed up on June 9, 2025, but have only received an automated acknowledgment—no response, investigation, or support to date. Attachments: A video clip showing the warning messages at the time of the incident (I cannot upload the video clip since the option is not there, but I do have it if required) Requested Actions: A formal investigation into the safety and reliability of Hyundai's hybrid systems. A determination as to whether this incident qualifies under Hyundai’s warranty or federal safety defect regulations. Immediate contact from Hyundai with the next steps regarding inspection, resolution, or compensation. I am cc’ing Hyundai Motor America to ensure this matter is escalated appropriately and receives the attention it warrants. Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to your timely response. Sincerely, [XXX] [XXX] [XXX] [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)