NHTSA lists 6 safety recalls and 103 owner complaints for the 2016 Hyundai Genesis. Most complaints involve electrical system (30) and engine (27). The EPA rates it 18–22 mpg combined, and NHTSA gives it 5 stars overall.
Hyundai Motor America (Genesis) is recalling certain 2015-2016 Hyundai Genesis, and 2017-2020 Genesis G80 vehicles. The front power seat motors may overheat due to a stuck power seat control switch, which can result in a fire while parked or driving.
Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2015-2016 Genesis, 2017-2019 Genesis G80, Genesis G90, and 2019 Genesis G70 vehicles. Water may enter the starter solenoid and cause an electrical short, which can result in an engine compartment fire while parked or driving.
Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2015-2016 Genesis and 2017-2020 Genesis G80 vehicles. The Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) module could malfunction and short circuit.
Complaints are unverified owner reports to NHTSA and are not normalized for sales volume. One complaint can cite several components.
“The contact owns a 2016 Hyundai Genesis. The contact stated that after parking the vehicle in a nearby parking lot, upon returning, there was heavy black smoke coming from under the front passenger’s side seat. Upon further inspection, the contact burned his right hand while attempting to check for the source of the fire. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer while the black smoke was present, where it was diagnosed with a possible wiring harness failure and the vehicle remained with the dealer for further investigation. The vehicle was not repaired. In addition, the contact stated that the method of how the smoke was extinguished was unknown. No medical attention was sought. A Police report was not filed. The contact stated that as per the insurance provider, it was unknown if the vehicle was a total loss. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 70,000.”
“Oil pressure switch in engine fails to accurately read oil pressure due to a lack of voltage, needing replacement. Causes driver to be unable to read proper oil pressure, leading to a possibility of fire through extreme overheating and friction-induced mechanical failure if the oil pressure is too low and unable to be read. The part has not been inspected by the manufacturer in any capacity, but it is a known issue with the Hyundai 3.8L V6 GDI engine. The oil pressure lamp will display at low RPMs and when at idle. A known fix it replacement of the sensor.”
“When headlights are in auto mode, use of the turn signal can result in the headlights flickering or shutting off completely. This is not the result of hitting the light mode switch but rather an electrical short occurring in the stalk. The problem is particularly dangerous at night when signaling for an upcoming turn and loss of all vehicle lighting occurs. The problem has not been reproduced by a dealer. The component has not been inspected by officials. Initial occurrence was winter of 2022 with increasing frequency since then.”
Towing, payload and dimensions aren’t in the EPA or NHTSA data, so we don’t list them.
| Version | City | Hwy | Comb. | Fuel / yr | CO₂ g/mi |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Genesis RWD Auto (S8), 6 cyl, 3.8 L · Rear-Wheel Drive | 18 | 28 | 22 | $2,850 | 411 |
| Genesis AWD Auto (S8), 6 cyl, 3.8 L · All-Wheel Drive | 16 | 25 | 19 | $3,300 | 460 |
| Genesis Coupe Auto (S8), 6 cyl, 3.8 L · Rear-Wheel Drive | 16 | 25 | 19 | $4,050 | 455 |
| Genesis Coupe Man 6-spd, 6 cyl, 3.8 L · Rear-Wheel Drive | 17 | 24 | 19 | $4,050 | 456 |
| Genesis RWD Auto (S8), 8 cyl, 5.0 L · Rear-Wheel Drive | 15 | 23 | 18 | $4,300 | 502 |
| Item | Miles | Time | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine oil & filter | 5,000–10,000 mi | 6–12 months | Follow the oil-life monitor if fitted |
| Tire rotation | 5,000–7,500 mi | Every oil change | Check pressure monthly |
| Engine air filter | 15,000–30,000 mi | 1–2 years | Sooner in dusty areas |
| Cabin air filter | 15,000–25,000 mi | 1–2 years | |
| Brake fluid | — | 2–3 years | Absorbs moisture over time |
| Coolant | 60,000–100,000 mi | 5–10 years | Long-life coolants last longer |
| Spark plugs | 60,000–100,000 mi | — | Iridium/platinum plugs at the long end |
| 12V battery | — | 3–5 years | Heat shortens battery life |
6 safety recalls as of Nov 10, 2026, according to NHTSA. Recall repairs are free at a dealer. Check your VIN to see whether your car is included and whether the repair was done.
Owners filed 103 complaints with NHTSA. The most-cited components are electrical system (30), engine (27), exterior lighting (12). Complaints are unverified owner reports and aren't adjusted for how many cars were sold.
The EPA rates the 2016 Hyundai Genesis at 18–22 mpg combined, depending on engine and drivetrain (5 versions rated).
NHTSA's New Car Assessment Program gives the 2016 Hyundai Genesis 5 out of 5 stars overall.