HYUNDAI SONATA · model year

2021 HYUNDAI SONATA

143 NHTSA complaints, 11 crash reports, and 4 active recalls for this specific cohort.

NHTSA overall rating

5 / 5 ★

New Car Assessment Program

The 2021HYUNDAISONATA carries 143 consumer safety complaints in NHTSA's Office of Defects Investigation database for this specific model-year cohort. Within that volume, owners reported 11 crashes, 0 fires, 24 injuries, and 0 fatalities. For crash performance, NHTSA's New Car Assessment Program gave this cohort an overall 5/5 rating, with 4/5 front crash, 5/5 side crash, and 5/5 rollover scores derived from standardized barrier and dynamic tests.

Component-level analysis is where model-year complaints become actionable: the top complaint category for the 2021 SONATA is unknown or other with 27 filings, followed by engine (24) and power train (18). Concentration in one or two component groups is the classic signature of a systemic defect; a flat distribution usually reflects normal aging, warranty complaints, or isolated build-plant variability. This model year has 4 active recall campaigns, which means the manufacturer is obligated to remedy the covered defect at no charge for the life of the vehicle, the full NHTSA campaign numbers are listed below.

NHTSA currently has 37 investigation files overlapping the 2021 SONATA, and 1 remain open. Owners comparing this cohort against neighboring years should pair the counters above with the complaint-by-year trend on the parent model page, a spike in a single year often tracks to a platform refresh, a new transmission supplier, or an updated ECU calibration. Use the related-complaint feed below to read raw owner narratives before deciding whether any pattern here affects your specific use case.

143
Complaints
11
Crashes
0
Fires
24
Injuries
0
Deaths
2021 HYUNDAI SONATA - NHTSA crash-test profile NHTSA NCAP crash-test star ratings for the 2021 HYUNDAI SONATA. Overall composite: 5.0 of 5 stars across 3 safety dimensions. Front CrashSide CrashRollover 5.0 NHTSA NCAP of 5 stars
  • Front Crash 4.0 ★
  • Side Crash 5.0 ★
  • Rollover 5.0 ★
NHTSA overall 5.0/5 stars, with front-crash, side-crash and rollover ratings from standardized NCAP barrier and dynamic tests.

Total Complaints

143 filings

Crashes Reported

11 reports

Source

NHTSA ODI

Federal complaints database

Complaints vs. fleet median (215)

At or below the fleet median complaint volume.

NHTSA NCAP overall: 5/5 - Top NCAP rating · Front: 4/5 · Side: 5/5 · Rollover: 5/5

Complaints by Component

ComponentCount
UNKNOWN OR OTHER27
ENGINE24
POWER TRAIN18
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM14
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM12
VISIBILITY/WIPER6
AIR BAGS4
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: WARNINGS4
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE3
STRUCTURE:BODY3
SEATS2
LANE DEPARTURE: ASSIST2
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL2
STEERING2
VISIBILITY:SUN/MOON ROOF ASSEMBLY2

Recalls (4)

21V00M00028/12/2021

VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD

Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Santa Fe, 2021 Sonata, and Elantra vehicles. During manufacturing, the windshield may not have been properly bonded to the vehicle, allowing it to detach in a crash.

25V79600018/11/2025

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2020-2023 Sonata vehicles. A damaged check valve can allow air to enter the fuel tank, causing it to expand and contact hot exhaust components, melting the tank.

21V52400009/07/2021

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS

Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Santa Fe and Sonata vehicles equipped with 2.5L turbocharged engines. Fuel may leak at the pipe connection between the high-pressure fuel pump and fuel rail.

22V74600006/10/2022

POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION

Hyundai Motor Company (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Santa Fe, Sonata, Veloster N, 2022 Santa Cruz, Elantra N, and Kona N vehicles. The vehicle's "fail-safe" limited-mobility drive mode may be impaired, when prompted by a transmission oil pump malfunction, which can result in a complete l

Recent Complaints

20260216ENGINE

Vehicle suddenly lost heat in 30 degree weather. No warnings, check engine light, or temperature gauge indicators came on. Lucky made it to a parts store and found out I was extremely low on coolant. Bought coolant and put it in. Made it back to the house and was immediately low again. No visible leaking. Oil was completely fine (1 gallon of coolant would have have left some kind indicator). Realized it was more than likely the ehrs. If this happened during the summer, my engine could have blown due to a poor design causing a major accident.

20260216POWER TRAIN

Vehicle suddenly lost heat in 30 degree weather. No warnings, check engine light, or temperature gauge indicators came on. Lucky made it to a parts store and found out I was extremely low on coolant. Bought coolant and put it in. Made it back to the house and was immediately low again. No visible leaking. Oil was completely fine (1 gallon of coolant would have have left some kind indicator). Realized it was more than likely the ehrs. If this happened during the summer, my engine could have blown due to a poor design causing a major accident.

20260209FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

The contact owns a 2021 Hyundai Sonata. While driving at various speeds, the vehicle unexpectedly shut off without warning. There was an abnormal popping sound coming from the vehicle with an abnormally strong fuel odor inside the vehicle. The contact stated that the vehicle was consuming an excessive amount of fuel. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V796000 (Fuel System, Gasoline); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer and the manufacturer were not notified of the failure. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The failure mileage was approximately 70,000.

Mileage: 70,000

20260206FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

The contact owns a 2021 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the accelerator pedal was depressed; however, the vehicle failed to accelerate as intended. In addition, the contact stated that the vehicle was shaking abnormally. The vehicle was taken to the dealer; however, the contact was informed that the part was not available to repair the vehicle. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V796000 (Fuel System, Gasoline); however, the part was not available for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure, and a case was filed. The failure mileage was approximately 92,000.

Mileage: 92,000

20260201UNKNOWN OR OTHER

Will be driving the car and suddenly hear a beep. Then the dashboard will flash with the ABS light engine light tire pressure light check Blindspot sensors, forward collision sensors. once all the lights appear on the dashboard, I can no longer accelerate. i’ve cleaned the throttlebody. I’ve replaced the gas pedal and it’s still kicking back the same code it still does it the same identical thing. It’s given out on me three times since December with an infant in the car. We are now in February.

20260201LANE DEPARTURE: BLIND SPOT DETECTION

Will be driving the car and suddenly hear a beep. Then the dashboard will flash with the ABS light engine light tire pressure light check Blindspot sensors, forward collision sensors. once all the lights appear on the dashboard, I can no longer accelerate. i’ve cleaned the throttlebody. I’ve replaced the gas pedal and it’s still kicking back the same code it still does it the same identical thing. It’s given out on me three times since December with an infant in the car. We are now in February.

20260201FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: WARNINGS

Will be driving the car and suddenly hear a beep. Then the dashboard will flash with the ABS light engine light tire pressure light check Blindspot sensors, forward collision sensors. once all the lights appear on the dashboard, I can no longer accelerate. i’ve cleaned the throttlebody. I’ve replaced the gas pedal and it’s still kicking back the same code it still does it the same identical thing. It’s given out on me three times since December with an infant in the car. We are now in February.

20260123FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

I took my car to the dealer on [XXX] with concerns about the strong gas smell that I have been smelling. The Hyundai dealership kept my car for 3 days and stated they could not smell the gas after driving the vehicle themselves. They did repair a cracked cylinder head however they did tell me that it wouldn't have been the cause of the fuel smell. They stated next time I am out driving, and I notice the smell to "pop" into the dealership to have it checked again. While this is good in theory, it is not something I am just able to do. I am [XXX], one of which is still in a car seat and unable to unbuckle themselves to get out if something terrible like a fire was to arise. This was the 2nd time taking my car in, as it was previously fixed in Feb 2025 due to another recall on the gas tank expanding. I do not feel safe transporting my children in a vehicle that is still reeking of gas and a possible hire hazard with no resolution. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATI

20260115UNKNOWN OR OTHER

Component or system involved and availability for inspection: The issue involves the transmission / drivetrain system. When I entered my VIN on Hyundai’s official dealership website, a safety recall related to the transmission appeared. I took a screenshot of this recall. When I later contacted Hyundai Motor America and spoke with my assigned case manager, I was told that no such recall existed for my VIN. A few days after that call, the recall no longer appeared when checking the VIN online. The vehicle is available for inspection upon request. How safety was put at risk: A transmission-related safety recall presents a risk of loss of power, inability to accelerate, or sudden mechanical failure, which could increase the risk of a crash, especially during normal driving conditions such as merging, accelerating, or driving at highway speeds. The uncertainty and inconsistency regarding whether a safety recall applies to my vehicle has put my safety and the safety of others at risk. Con

20260109ENGINE

I was driving my 2021 Hyundai Sonata at approximately 3:00 AM when the vehicle suddenly began shaking and vibrating. While stopped at a traffic light, the check engine light illuminated, and the engine was shaking severely. I immediately pulled over and shut off the engine. After waiting approximately one hour, I restarted the vehicle, but it was only able to drive very slowly. The following day, the vehicle was towed to a local repair shop. Diagnostic testing showed a cylinder 3 misfire, along with EVAP system errors and faulty fuel injector issues. This failure occurred without warning and created a potential safety risk while driving. I am concerned this may be related to a defective fuel system.

20260109FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

I was driving my 2021 Hyundai Sonata at approximately 3:00 AM when the vehicle suddenly began shaking and vibrating. While stopped at a traffic light, the check engine light illuminated, and the engine was shaking severely. I immediately pulled over and shut off the engine. After waiting approximately one hour, I restarted the vehicle, but it was only able to drive very slowly. The following day, the vehicle was towed to a local repair shop. Diagnostic testing showed a cylinder 3 misfire, along with EVAP system errors and faulty fuel injector issues. This failure occurred without warning and created a potential safety risk while driving. I am concerned this may be related to a defective fuel system.

20260109ENGINE

Engine makes rattling and knocking noises. Transmission hesitates and jerks Suspension front struts and rear shocks are bad. Possible the isolators. Having horrible back pain when riding in car. Starter intermittently doesn't work Lane keep assistance goes over small bump in road will make car drive in opposite lane into on coming traffic. Took car to Tameron hyundai in Birmingham on the 29th of December 2025. Told them everything thats going on with the car. They did nothing about any of the issues. Car has 55,000 miles on it as that is when all problems have incurred. 60000 mile Warranty expires in February of this year.

20260109SUSPENSION

Engine makes rattling and knocking noises. Transmission hesitates and jerks Suspension front struts and rear shocks are bad. Possible the isolators. Having horrible back pain when riding in car. Starter intermittently doesn't work Lane keep assistance goes over small bump in road will make car drive in opposite lane into on coming traffic. Took car to Tameron hyundai in Birmingham on the 29th of December 2025. Told them everything thats going on with the car. They did nothing about any of the issues. Car has 55,000 miles on it as that is when all problems have incurred. 60000 mile Warranty expires in February of this year.

20260109LANE DEPARTURE: ASSIST

Engine makes rattling and knocking noises. Transmission hesitates and jerks Suspension front struts and rear shocks are bad. Possible the isolators. Having horrible back pain when riding in car. Starter intermittently doesn't work Lane keep assistance goes over small bump in road will make car drive in opposite lane into on coming traffic. Took car to Tameron hyundai in Birmingham on the 29th of December 2025. Told them everything thats going on with the car. They did nothing about any of the issues. Car has 55,000 miles on it as that is when all problems have incurred. 60000 mile Warranty expires in February of this year.

20260108FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP

Please see Attachment To Whom It May Concern, I am writing to formally notify you under the Virginia Motor Vehicle Warranty Enforcement Act (Virginia Lemon Law, Va. Code §§ 59.1-207.9 to 59.1-207.16) that my 2021 Hyundai Sonata, has a nonconformity that substantially impairs its use, value, or safety. On June XX, 2025 I delivered my vehicle to Pearson Hyundai for repair due to the fuel pump recall. As of today September XX, 2025 the vehicle has been out of service for more than 89 days, well beyond the 30-day threshold set by Virginia law. Despite this, the manufacturer has failed to complete the required recall repair in a reasonable amount of time. This constitutes a violation of my rights under Virginia’s Lemon Law. Therefore, I am formally demanding relief as provided by law: Repurchase of my vehicle for the full contract price, including taxes, fees, and incidental charges, less a reasonable allowance for use, OR Replacement with a comparable new vehicle acceptable to me.

20251230FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

Recall number (25V796000) There is No remedy available. I am Experiencing fuel system issues that may relate. Dealer and corporate refusing meaningful support and expecting me to pay $1,600 to replace fuel assembly. I feel unsafe driving my vehicle at this time.

20251230FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

I own a 2021 Hyundai Sonata 1.6T, which has an open NHTSA safety recall (25V796000) related to fuel tank pressurization and fire risk. I brought the vehicle to an authorized Hyundai dealership due to a check engine light, reduced performance, and DTC P14EE, which aligns with the recall condition. The dealership refused to treat the concern as recall-related unless I paid a diagnostic fee and later attempted to reclassify the issue as a customer-pay fuel pump repair. During this visit, the dealership replaced a fuel system sensor without my authorization, which I did not approve or consent to. The dealership has not provided documented test results explaining how the recall condition was ruled out and has not documented recall inspection on the repair order. I expressed that I do not feel safe driving the vehicle due to the fuel system recall and drivability issues. The dealership also refused to provide alternate transportation. I am concerned the recall is not being handled in compli

20251230UNKNOWN OR OTHER

I own a 2021 Hyundai Sonata 1.6T, which has an open NHTSA safety recall (25V796000) related to fuel tank pressurization and fire risk. I brought the vehicle to an authorized Hyundai dealership due to a check engine light, reduced performance, and DTC P14EE, which aligns with the recall condition. The dealership refused to treat the concern as recall-related unless I paid a diagnostic fee and later attempted to reclassify the issue as a customer-pay fuel pump repair. During this visit, the dealership replaced a fuel system sensor without my authorization, which I did not approve or consent to. The dealership has not provided documented test results explaining how the recall condition was ruled out and has not documented recall inspection on the repair order. I expressed that I do not feel safe driving the vehicle due to the fuel system recall and drivability issues. The dealership also refused to provide alternate transportation. I am concerned the recall is not being handled in compli

20251230POWER TRAIN

I own a 2021 Hyundai Sonata 1.6T, which has an open NHTSA safety recall (25V796000) related to fuel tank pressurization and fire risk. I brought the vehicle to an authorized Hyundai dealership due to a check engine light, reduced performance, and DTC P14EE, which aligns with the recall condition. The dealership refused to treat the concern as recall-related unless I paid a diagnostic fee and later attempted to reclassify the issue as a customer-pay fuel pump repair. During this visit, the dealership replaced a fuel system sensor without my authorization, which I did not approve or consent to. The dealership has not provided documented test results explaining how the recall condition was ruled out and has not documented recall inspection on the repair order. I expressed that I do not feel safe driving the vehicle due to the fuel system recall and drivability issues. The dealership also refused to provide alternate transportation. I am concerned the recall is not being handled in compli

20251228UNKNOWN OR OTHER

NHTSA: #25V796000 Recall: #286 2020-23MY SONATA (DN8/DN8A) FUEL TANK Issued on 11/18/2025 and there is no remedy yet for this issue. Hyundai of Ocala has not issued me a loaner car. What am I supposed to do? It’s been over a month since the recall was posted and still no remedy. I’m concerned for mine and my families safety. This car is our only means of transportation. I need a solution

Compare 2021HYUNDAISONATA to Similar Vehicles

NHTSA Investigations 1 Open

View all investigations

Frequently Asked Questions

How many complaints does the 2021 HYUNDAI SONATA have?
The 2021 HYUNDAI SONATA has 143 NHTSA complaints, 11 crashes, 0 fires, 24 injuries, and 0 deaths reported.
What is the safety rating for the 2021 HYUNDAI SONATA?
The 2021 HYUNDAI SONATA received an overall NHTSA safety rating of 5/5, front crash rating of 4/5, side crash rating of 5/5, and rollover rating of 5/5.
Are there any recalls for the 2021 HYUNDAI SONATA?
Yes, the 2021 HYUNDAI SONATA has 4 recall(s). The most common affected component is VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD. Recalls are issued by NHTSA and manufacturers must provide a free remedy.
What are the most common problems with the 2021 HYUNDAI SONATA?
The most-complained component for the 2021 HYUNDAI SONATA is UNKNOWN OR OTHER with 27 complaints. Other frequently reported areas include ENGINE and POWER TRAIN.
Is the 2021 HYUNDAI SONATA safe to buy?
Review the complaint history, crash and fire reports, safety ratings, and recall status on this page to make an informed decision. The 2021 HYUNDAI SONATA has an NHTSA safety rating of 5/5. Compare with other model years using the links above.
Where does this data come from?
All complaint, recall, and safety rating data is sourced from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Complaints are filed by vehicle owners through NHTSA's Office of Defects Investigation.

Vehicle Safety Guides

Data as of 2025. Sources: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) complaints database, NHTSA recall campaign API, NHTSA NCAP crash-test ratings, and NHTSA FARS for fatality cross-reference.