NHTSA lists 3 safety recalls and 81 owner complaints for the 2017 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid. Most complaints involve engine (46) and electrical system (18). The EPA rates it 40–42 mpg combined, and NHTSA gives it 5 stars overall.
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.
Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2017 Tucson and Sonata Hybrid vehicles. The connecting rod bearings inside the engine may wear prematurely, which can result in engine damage.
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."
Complaints are unverified owner reports to NHTSA and are not normalized for sales volume. One complaint can cite several components.
Complaints for each Sonata Hybrid model year we’ve synced.
| Model year | NHTSA complaints |
|---|---|
| 2011 | 96 |
| 2012 | 155 |
| 2013 | 108 |
| 2014 | 29 |
| 2015 | 54 |
| 2016 | 133 |
| 2017 | 81 |
| 2018 | 9 |
| 2019 | 5 |
| 2020 | 16 |
| 2021 | 55 |
| 2022 | 19 |
| 2023 | 15 |
| 2024 | 9 |
| 2025 | 11 |
| 2026 | 3 |
“My 2017 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid suffered a sudden and dangerous engine failure matching the exact conditions of NHTSA Safety Recall 209 (Hyundai Campaign 209) for premature connecting rod bearing wear. The vehicle entered Limp Mode due to diagnostic trouble code P1326. The mandatory Knock Sensor Detection System (KSDS) software update was successfully completed on this vehicle prior to the failure. The vehicle is currently located at Hyundai of [XXX], where dealership technicians confirmed that the engine is completely failed and requires replacement. However, the dealership and manufacturer are actively refusing to perform the mandatory safety recall remedy, instructing me to pick up the un-repaired, hazardous vehicle. They are citing the vehicle's salvage title as the sole reason for denial. Under federal NHTSA regulations, a manufacturer cannot deny a safety recall remedy based on a salvage or branded title status unless the vehicle cannot be physically or safely repaired. This engine defect poses a documented fire and stalling hazard. I am filing this immediate complaint because Hyundai is violating federal recall mandates by attempting to discharge a vehicle…”
“While traveling 40 mph, car flashes a warning, "Check Hybrid System", and then the car shuts off. No power steering and brakes are difficult. The warning is only 3-5 seconds before everything shuts down. This is definitely a hazard to myself and others. If in traffic at higher speeds, there would certainly be an accident with devastating results.”
“What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? Vehicle stopped accelerating and flashing check engine light went on. Vehicle reported "Check Hybrid System." Dealer believes it was loose pins in a HCULDC connector that may have caused loss of communication. How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? Lost acceleration on a highway and was nearly hit trying to get off of the road. Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? Piazza Hyundai of Pottstown, PA reproduced the issue. Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others? Dealer secured loose pins. Were there any warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, and when did they first appear? No.”
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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sonata Hybrid SE Auto (AM6), 4 cyl, 2.0 L · Front-Wheel Drive | 39 | 45 | 42 | $1,450 | 221 |
| Sonata Hybrid Auto (AM6), 4 cyl, 2.0 L · Front-Wheel Drive | 38 | 43 | 40 | $1,500 | 222 |
| 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 |
3 safety recalls as of Nov 12, 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 81 complaints with NHTSA. The most-cited components are engine (46), electrical system (18), power train (10). Complaints are unverified owner reports and aren't adjusted for how many cars were sold.
The EPA rates the 2017 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid at 40–42 mpg combined, depending on engine and drivetrain (2 versions rated).
NHTSA's New Car Assessment Program gives the 2017 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid 5 out of 5 stars overall.