This page covers 5 recalls, 826 owner complaints, NHTSA crash-test ratings and EPA fuel economy for the 2017 Hyundai Sonata.
26–40 mpg combined
5.9–9 L/100km
Large Cars
Fuel economy data from fueleconomy.gov (EPA / U.S. Dept. of Energy). Annual cost based on 15,000 mi/yr at 55% city driving and current fuel prices. MPG is U.S. gallons; L/100km converted. Ranges reflect the 4 tested variants for this model year.
5/5 Overall
NHTSA 5-Star Safety Rating
The dominant complaint pattern for the 2017 Sonata centers heavily on the engine, which accounts by far the largest share of reports, followed by steering. Owners of the 2.4L four-cylinder frequently describe sudden knocking noises, loss of power, and outright engine seizure, often while driving. Excessive oil consumption comes up repeatedly, with owners reporting near-empty dipsticks well before any scheduled oil change interval. Many describe the vehicle entering limp mode, and a recurring error code related to engine knock detection appears across multiple reports. Bearing failure is specifically mentioned by owners who had dealer inspections, with failed bearing clearance tests cited in several cases. Steering complaints make up the second-largest group, though at roughly half the volume of engine reports. Engine issues in this model year are consistently tied to internal failures rather than external or maintenance-related causes, with oil consumption and bearing wear being the most commonly described symptoms.
826
Total Complaints
29
Crash-Related
15
Fire-Related
9
With Injuries
By System
The 2017 Hyundai Sonata has 5 recalls, the most serious involving the engine control software, where a prior repair may not have fully resolved the issue and a second update is needed to prevent sudden power loss or an engine fire.
A separate engine recall affects Sonata Hybrid models specifically: the connecting rod bearings inside the engine can wear prematurely, leading to engine damage that raises the risk of a stall or fire. On the safety equipment side, the driver's front airbag on certain vehicles built in mid-2016 may not inflate fully in a crash, reducing its ability to protect the driver. There is also an electrical concern where the turn signal software can misread the driver's input and activate the signal in the opposite direction intended. The trunk latch can become damaged and prevent the trunk from being opened from the inside, which could trap a person in the trunk compartment.
At a glance
What can fail
A previous software update may not be working correctly. Without it, the engine control module cannot detect problems, potentially causing sudden engine failure and loss of power.
What the fix does
Hyundai will send you a letter. Take your vehicle to a Hyundai dealer to install an updated engine control module software.
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Driver Assistance
Ratings from NHTSA's New Car Assessment Program (NCAP).
Complaints are owner-reported and reflect individual experiences, not confirmed defects. They are distinct from recalls. Data sourced from the national vehicle safety complaint database. See trending complaints →
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The Smart Junction Box software may misinterpret turn signal switch commands, causing the turn signal to activate in the opposite direction from what the driver intends.
What the fix does
Dealers will update the Smart Junction Box software at no cost to correct the signal interpretation.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The connecting rod bearings inside the engine may wear too quickly, potentially causing engine damage.
What the fix does
Dealers will inspect the engine, replace it if bearing damage is found, and install a software update with a new knock sensor detection system.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The trunk latch can become damaged, which may prevent you from opening the trunk from inside the vehicle.
What the fix does
Dealers will replace the trunk latch base at no cost to you.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The driver's front airbag inflator end seal may not be properly installed, which could reduce airbag inflation during a crash.
What the fix does
Dealers will replace the driver's front airbag module at no cost.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
