Vehicle report
2019 Hyundai Sonata
Free recalls, owner complaints, and NHTSA safety ratings for the 2019 Hyundai Sonata, plus how to check this specific vehicle before you buy.
The 2019 Hyundai Sonata has no open NHTSA recalls on record and 15 owner complaints filed with NHTSA. Its overall NHTSA crash-test rating is 5 out of 5. Below is the full breakdown, plus how to check this specific vehicle by VIN before you buy in Alberta.
0
Open recalls
15
Complaints
5
Overall safety
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2019 Hyundai Sonata recalls (0)
No open NHTSA recalls were found for the 2019 Hyundai Sonata. Verify by VIN for the specific vehicle, as recalls can be issued at any time.
2019 Hyundai Sonata safety ratings
5
Overall
5
Front
5
Side
4
Rollover
Source: NHTSA NCAP ratings.
2019 Hyundai Sonata owner complaints (15)
- POWER TRAIN
2019 Hyundai Sonata Sport. (Original owner). Problem: Transmission. [XXX] (9,912 miles). Lack of power, vehicle did not move when trying to merge onto freeway. Very unsafe. Also, hesitation and jerking. [XXX] (10,619 miles). Lack of power, hesitation, jerking. Hyundai tech performed TSB, TCU updates, ECU update for knock sensor performance, reset engine & transmission updates. [XXX] (41,332 miles). Harsh shifts, hesitation, jerking, clunk sound, gear grabs, bursts of power, lack of power. Unsafe to drive. February 2, 2026 (41,751 miles). Hyundai tech found leak at case seal. Hyundai replaced transmission. [XXX] rough start, vibration in pedals. March 9, 2026 Hyundai tech found transmission fluid leak at case seal. Hyundai replaced transmission. March 25, 2026 Hyundai service advisor voicemail said, have to submit to Hyundai another transmission replacement because new transmission is not good. Issues shifting in reverse, hard slams, loses gears. [XXX] picked up vehicle from Hyundai service dept. Harsh shifting, hesitation, jerking, clunk sound, gear grabs, bursts of power. Clunk sound in steering wheel when turned back-and-forth. Front end vibration & wobbly. Vehicle unsafe. May 26, 2026. I notified Hyundai Motor America. Case #[XXX]. June 10, 2026 (43,000 miles). Hyundai service dept. informed me of right and left front axle replacement, universal steering joint replacement. Vehicle unsafe. [XXX] (43,000 miles). Test drove car with Hyundai tech. Verified front end vibration & shaking. Vehicle unsafe to drive. Hyundai service manager said that Hyundai should recall the transmissions. To date, my car is still at Hyundai service dept. Hyundai's service manager said that the Hyundai service dept. will have a meeting regarding my car and include Hyundai's service director, etc. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
- ENGINE
The engine is the component or system failed or malfunctioned, and it is available for inspection upon request. Sudden loss of engine power while driving, including during highway speeds or intersections, increasing the risk of a crash. Engine stalling or failure to accelerate, preventing me from safely maneuvering away from hazards. Overheating events, which resulted in complete engine seizure and an unexpected loss of vehicle control, all which can potentially causing catastrophic incident without warning. To include, the increased risk of collision, especially if the failure occurs during traffic, merging, passing, or emergency situations. It has been reported to CC Transmission Auto Repair and independent service center. It was previously inspected by Hyundai dealer. Check engine light present September 2025.
- STEERING
after the car is driven for a while in warm weather, the steering can feel sticky after doing a slight turn doing more than 30 MPH. It takes extra force to return the steering wheel to the straight/neutral position. It acts as though the steering wheel is stuck in this slight turn position. The problem is intermittent but does create a safety hazard with the risk of the car being unable to easily remain in its correct lane position. Symptom summary: Intermittent; Worse in warm weather; happens after small steering inputs; Feels like the wheel is “hung up”.
- POWER TRAIN,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
For the past several years, this vehicle has experienced a recurring and unresolved engine malfunction that creates a safety hazard. The problem manifests as follows: Symptoms when check engine light illuminates: • Idle RPM elevation to approximately 1500 RPM (normal idle: 800 RPM) • Sudden unintended forward acceleration when foot is removed from brake pedal • Significantly reduced acceleration performance during normal driving • Vehicle becomes difficult to control safely The malfunction occurs intermittently but follows a consistent pattern. This is not an isolated incident but a recurring defect that has persisted for years. Multiple diagnostic and repair attempts have been unsuccessful: • Coconut Creek Hyundai service center - unable to diagnose [DATE(S)] • Independent mechanics - unable to resolve [DATE(S)] • Issue remains unresolved despite multiple service visits Despite multiple attempts by qualified technicians, the root cause has not been identified and the defect has not been corrected. This malfunction creates a significant safety hazard: • Unintended acceleration increases risk of collision • Reduced acceleration capability limits ability to merge or accelerate safely • Check engine light indicates undiagnosed system failure • Problem is intermittent and unpredictable, making it unsafe to drive I am concerned this may represent a defect pattern affecting multiple 2019 Sonata vehicles. NHTSA should: 1. Investigate whether this represents a defect pattern in 2019 Hyundai Sonata vehicles 2. Determine if a safety recall is warranted 3. Contact Hyundai Motor America to address this systemic issue
- SUSPENSION,ENGINE
Ecm, p0303, yes, not yet, no, cel light before the car was brought to the dealership, 2019 Hyundai Sonata SE, 2.4L Theta II GDI. Perryville Hyundai IL refused applicable TSB in writing 5/4/26 despite active P0303 misfire, fuel-in-oil smell, crankcase pressure. I have Photos prove falsified multi-point inspection: 1.0 inch (.0833') wheel well discrepancy, same mileage in/out. Vehicle has stall risk. Case Manager [XXX] non-responsive 2hr 45min after requesting written tow instructions on safety matter. RSPM escalated 1:00 PM CDT 5/5/26 with 3:00 PM deadline. No contact received as of 3:03 PM. Vehicle unsafe to drive. Theta II Lifetime Warranty Settlement violation. Case #XXX. Requesting federal investigation. Photo upload is not working, I'll need a email to send them in apparently INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
- SERVICE BRAKES,LANE DEPARTURE,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
Automatic Emergency Braking Blind Spot Warning/Blind Spot Detection Forward Collision Warning Antilock Brake System/ABS Lane Departure Warning Lane keeping Assistance I bought this vehicle last month from a dealer and two days later all the warning lights start popping up on the dashboard so I contacted the dealer and told them what was going on with the car they told me to bring it in so that the technician can check to see what’s wrong with it they told me that there’s nothing wrong with the vehicle so I went back home and the same day all the warning lights came back on so now I’m concerned about my daughter’s safety because she use the vehicle to drive to and from school and you never know when the brakes might fail, again I just bought this vehicle a month ago just one month not even a year and it’s having all this problem even though it’s a pre-owned vehicle I shouldn’t have to take it to the shop after one month please help… thank you
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
I wanted to report the failure of my rear camera and/or the electrical circuit that is tied to it. It's my understanding that Hyundai has issued multiple recalls across different years/vehicles for issues in this area. My 2019 Sonata is NOT included in those current recalls. I was without my vehicle for a week and was charged over $1600 to repair. The issue was diagnosed and repaired by an independent mechanic. When they system failed numerous error lights/warning went off and continued to cycle thru (plus beeping). I wanted to report this in hopes of continued pressure on Hyundai to add this model/year to their recalls.
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
On April 14, 2026, my 2019 Hyundai Sonata was parked at a retail store parking lot. Returning from the store, I attempted to start the car, and it did not start. I attempted to start it again, and I saw smoke coming out from under the hood. I immediately exited the vehicle and opened the hood. I saw open flames coming out of the engine area, about 4” high. I called 911 and waited about 10 minutes for the fire department to arrive. During this time, the flames engulfed the entire engine compartment and extended vertically above the hood height. The hood eventually melted and fell back onto the engine area. The fire department came and put out the fire. The car is totaled. There were no injuries, thank God!
- ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
My 2019 Hyundai Sonata has been experiencing excessive oil consumption since I purchased it. The vehicle requires oil to be added approximately every two weeks, which indicates a serious internal engine issue. Recently, the check engine light turned on, and I took the vehicle to a dealership for inspection. I was told that the engine is “operating normally,” despite the ongoing oil consumption problem. I was also informed that the engine would only be replaced under warranty if it fails completely, such as through connecting rod bearing damage. This means I am expected to continue driving a vehicle that may suddenly fail without warning. I drive daily with my children, and I am concerned about the risk of sudden engine failure, loss of power, or engine seizure while driving, which could lead to a serious accident. I believe this is a known issue with these engines, and it represents a significant safety hazard that should be addressed before a catastrophic failure occurs.
- ENGINE
I was driving on the interstate when my engine started shutting down on me and I’m glad I had moved to the right lane because someone would’ve hit me from the back because I never had this problem and now the mechanic telling me it jumped timing.
- ENGINE
My oil pan cracked. I’ve never had any issues with oil pans until this one. Hyundai will not replace this under warranty.
- STRUCTURE,VISIBILITY/WIPER,LANE DEPARTURE
I respectfully submit the following additional information.In connection with this matter, the dealer in question asserted in writing that I "should have refused to participate" in the manufacturer-authorized "Z05 Service Campaign"—a measure designed to prevent potential damage—and characterized the program as nothing more than "free paint work." Service campaigns administered by manufacturers are conducted within the framework of federal safety regulations pursuant to Title 49, Chapter 301 of the U.S. Code; they are neither optional nor merely cosmetic in nature. Rather, they constitute systematic procedures intended to preserve vehicle integrity and support public safety. Statements suggesting that consumers should decline participation in such campaigns—or that they may bear financial responsibility for damage incurred during their execution—raise concerns regarding how these federally supervised programs are communicated and implemented and may discourage participation and undermine public confidence in the national vehicle safety campaign system. Although the dealership subsequently offered to replace the windshield at no cost, I have not received confirmation that the repair has been completed. This offer was made only after the vehicle remained at the facility for an extended period, during which I was repeatedly placed under pressure to assume financial responsibility for damage that occurred while the vehicle was under dealership custody. I was presented with two conditional options; however, in either scenario, I would ultimately be required to accept financial responsibility for the outcome. Ultimately, I was required to assume financial responsibility for issues arising during the work. On 2/23, I was told the loaner could be reported as "stolen," and I returned it immediately. After returning the vehicle, no alternative transportation was provided while my own vehicle remained unrepaired.
- VISIBILITY/WIPER
Safety Concern — Damage to Windshield During Manufacturer Recall Repair (Z05) My vehicle was brought to an authorized Hyundai dealership on January 14, 2026 for a manufacturer-directed paint recall repair (Campaign Z05), which required removal and reinstallation of the windshield as part of the procedure. The repair was originally expected to be completed between January 14 and January 28, 2026. However, I received no explanation for the delay during that period. On February 13, 2026 — nearly one month after check-in — I was informed for the first time that the windshield had cracked during the reinstallation process while the vehicle was in the dealership’s custody. As of March 18, 2026, the windshield has not been replaced, and the vehicle remains at the dealership without this safety-critical component restored. Because the windshield is a structural element essential to roof strength, airbag deployment performance, and overall crash integrity, the prolonged failure to properly restore it raises serious safety concerns. The unresolved condition of this component creates uncertainty regarding the vehicle’s crashworthiness and may expose occupants to significant risk of injury in the event of a collision. Damage occurred during a manufacturer-mandated recall repair while the vehicle was under the exclusive control of an authorized service provider, and the vehicle has not been returned to a safe, operable condition for an extended period. This situation raises broader concerns regarding the handling of safety-critical components during recall procedures and the timely restoration of vehicles to safe operating condition. This matter is also currently under review by the Arkansas Motor Vehicle Commission (AMVC), Case #26-009, due to the prolonged inability to restore the vehicle to a safe condition. I am submitting this complaint in the interest of vehicle safety oversight and to help prevent similar situations from affecting other consumers.
- UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE
consuming oil a quart every 2-3 weeks sonata hyundai in 2000 miles 3 quarts of oil were used. what happens when the motor locks up from be extremely low on oil. Possible accident! I cannot expect my wife to be checking the oil level every time she drives.
- STEERING,ENGINE
Steering wheel panel glued/tampered (Safety Hazard) Motor/Pump assembly broken. Recall couldn't be done due to tampered parts.
Checking a used Hyundai Sonata before you buy
The recall, complaint, and safety data above describes the 2019 Sonata in general. To know the condition and history of the specific vehicle you're looking at, check it by VIN. A VIN check shows whether this particular Sonata's recalls are still outstanding, and a full history report adds accident, title, and ownership records the data above can't show.
Before you buy a 2019 Hyundai Sonata in Alberta:
- Run a free VIN check on the exact vehicle for its own recalls and safety data.
- Run an Alberta Personal Property Registry lien search so you don't inherit debt.
- Get an independent pre-purchase inspection.
- If it's a dealer, confirm their AMVIC licence.
See other model years of the Hyundai Sonata, or browse more Hyundai models.
2019 Hyundai Sonata — questions and answers
Does the 2019 Hyundai Sonata have any recalls?+
Our check found no open NHTSA recalls for the 2019 Hyundai Sonata. Recalls can be issued at any time, so still verify by VIN for the specific vehicle you're considering — a VIN check reflects whether any recall work has already been completed.
How many complaints does the 2019 Hyundai Sonata have?+
NHTSA lists 15 owner complaints for the 2019 Hyundai Sonata in our results. Complaints are problems reported by owners and don't always lead to a recall, but a pattern of similar complaints is worth weighing before you buy.
Is the 2019 Hyundai Sonata safe?+
The 2019 Hyundai Sonata has an overall NHTSA crash-test rating of 5. Review the front-crash, side-crash, and rollover ratings above, and pair safety ratings with a mechanical inspection of the specific vehicle.
How do I check a 2019 Hyundai Sonata VIN?+
Enter the vehicle's 17-character VIN into our free VIN check to see recalls, complaints, and safety ratings for that exact vehicle, then run an Alberta Personal Property Registry (PPR) lien search before you pay.
Are recall repairs on a Hyundai free?+
Yes. Safety recall repairs are performed at no cost by a franchised Hyundai dealer, even for a used vehicle and even if you're not the original owner. Confirm the required parts are in stock before relying on the fix.
Get the full vehicle history report
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