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2020 Hyundai Sonata Owner Complaints

Updated May 30, 20262 Critical Recalls
Daniel Wilson
2020 Hyundai Sonata Owner Complaints

Complaint Summary

The 2020 Hyundai Sonata has 217 reported complaints.

  • Top issues involve fuel/propulsion system and electrical system.

Reliability Score

Reliability Score

6.2/ 10

Based on 217 complaints

Most Frequent Issues

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

36 16.6%

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

28 12.9%

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

25 11.5%

POWER TRAIN

21 9.7%

ENGINE

19 8.8%

Quick Insights

  • The top category is FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM, accounting for 16.6% of all complaints.

  • Owners have reported issues across 35 distinct vehicle systems.

  • Note: Complaint data reflects owner reports and may not always indicate a verified defect. Compare with Recalls and TSBs for a complete picture.

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Complaint Summary

What owners keep reporting on the 2020 Hyundai Sonata

The 2020 Hyundai Sonata has 217 owner complaints in this dataset. FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM is the most common complaint category, representing about 17% of the reports shown here.

Most common complaint categories

The top complaint groups for the 2020 Hyundai Sonata are FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM (36), ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (28), UNKNOWN OR OTHER (25).

Are these complaints a serious red flag?

Potentially. 107 complaint reports involve higher-attention systems like brakes, steering, engine, powertrain, fuel, suspension, airbags, or electrical components, which is enough to justify a focused inspection.

What should buyers inspect on a used 2020 Hyundai Sonata?

Start with the top complaint systems, compare them against the recall report, then inspect service records for evidence that those same areas were already repaired or monitored.

Read the full buyer guideRecall report and remedy notesMaintenance costs and intervals2019 Sonata complaints2021 Sonata complaints2018 Sonata complaints

Detailed Complaint Log

Showing 35 of 35 systems

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

36 Reports17% of total

Previewing the first 2 complaint summaries.

AS THE VEHICLE WAS AT A COMPLETE STOP AND WAITING FOR A CHANCE TO GET IN TRAFFIC, THE CAR HESTIATED AND WOULD NOT RESPOND TO THE DEPRESS OF THE GAS PEDAL, FOR A SECOND OR TWO... VERY STRANGE INDEED!....IS IT A TRANSMISSION ISSUE OR SOMETHING ELSE....THE TRANSMISSION SHIFTS STRANGE FROM THE COMPLETE STOP POSITION...THIS HAPPENES MORE THAN ONCE! AND ONE INSTANCE IT ACTUALLY JERKED ( BUCKED) SOMEHOW...CONCERNED ABOUT THIS...

11/27/2020

While driving at about 45mph a warning flashed on my dash. I couldn't read it before it disappeared, but it was something about front collision., contact dealer. the car immediately lost all power. Everything was still running, but I had no acceleration. I had to back down a busy road into a vacant lot. I had just come off of the highway when this happened, if I had still been driving on the Highway, I would have been hit by a car from behind, since there was no warning at all. The car was towed to a Hyundai dealership. After a diagnosis, it was said to be the Throttle body. I had to wait for the repair because the part was on back order. I was told that there was another car there waiting on the same part. I am afraid to drive the car now, even though the repair was made. I feel this is a safety hazard, and that someone could be injured or killed because of this issue with the car.

3/14/2024

34 more complaints are available in this category.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

28 Reports13% of total

Previewing the first 2 complaint summaries.

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2020 HYUNDAI SONATA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT APPROXIMATELY 55 MPH, THE VEHICLE SHIFTED INTO SAFE MODE AND LOST MOTIVE POWER. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO ST. CHARLES AUTOMOTIVE LOCATED AT 5601 VETERANS MEMORIAL PKWY, ST PETERS, MO 63376, (636)441-4481 BUT WAS NOT DIAGNOSED NOR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT CONTACTED OR INFORMED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 1,500.

2/6/2020

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2020 HYUNDAI SONATA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE PASSENGER'S SIDE BLIND SPOT DETECTION SYSTEM FAILED TO ACTIVATE. THE CONTACT ALSO STATED THAT THE FORWARD COLLISION WARNING LIGHT INTERMITTENTLY ACTIVATED WHILE STOPPED AT A RED LIGHT. THE CONTACT STATED THE REAR BRAKE ASSIST ACTIVATED INTERMITTENTLY ON SEVERAL OCCASIONS. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO NASSIEF HYUNDAI LOCATED AT 1059 OH-46 NORTH, JEFFERSON, OH 44047, AND PRESTON HYUNDAI OF SHARON LOCATED AT 1251 E STATE ST, SHARON, PA 16146, WHERE THE MECHANICS WERE UNABLE TO DUPLICATE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE HAD NOT BEEN DIAGNOSED NOR REPAIRED AS OF YET. THE MANUFACTURER HAD NOT BEEN INFORMED OF FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 623. *BF *TR

8/31/2020

26 more complaints are available in this category.

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

25 Reports12% of total

Previewing the first 2 complaint summaries.

WHEN IT RAINS WATER GETS INSIDE THE DOORS WHILE PARKED. ESPECIALLY THE BACK DOORS. IF IT RAINS HARD A CUP FULL OF WATER WILL COME OUT THE DOOR UPON OPENING. I'VE BEEN TOLD IT'S A DESIGN FLAW. I'VE HAD IT LOOKED AT TWICE AND IT'S STILL NOT FIXED. CUSTOMER SERVICE CAN'T HAVE SOMEONE COME OUT AND LOOK AND IT BECAUSE OF THE VIRUS, SO THERE'S NOTHING THAT THEY CAN DO.

4/30/2020

REAR DOORS RETAIN WATER EVERY TIME IT RAINS. WHEN YOU OPEN THE REAR DOORS WATER DRAINS OUT OF THE CAR. BROUGHT CAR TO HYUNDAI DEALERSHIP WHO VERIFIED THE PROBLEM AND CONFIRMED THE PROBLEM WITH OTHER NEW CARS ON THEIR LOT, ON APRIL 21, 2020. DEALERSHIP CONTACTED HYUNDAI CORPORATE FOR GUIDANCE AND THERE HAS BEEN NO RESPONSE TO DATE. *TR

5/27/2020

23 more complaints are available in this category.

POWER TRAIN

21 Reports10% of total

Previewing the first 2 complaint summaries.

VEHICLE ROUGH IDLED & EVENTUALLY SHUDDERED TO A STOP. THIS HAPPENED FOUR TIMES WHILE IN GEAR AND IDLING AT APPX 1000-1500 MILES. BETWEEN 1500-2000 MILES, VEHICLE SHUT DOWN WHILE DRIVING APPX 60MPH ON A COUNTY ROAD. AT APPX 2700 MILES, MPGS DRASTICALLY IMPACTED WHEN VEHICLE SUDDENLY STOPPED SHIFTING GEARS PROPERLY WHILE IN MOTION AT APPX 70MPH ON THE HIGHWAY. CHECK ENGINE LIGHT APPEARED WITH MESSAGE REGARDING ECS ISSUES. VEHICLE STILL DRIVES, IT JUST SEEMS TO STRUGGLE WITH EFFICIENCY AND SHIFTING CORRECTLY.

7/8/2020

VEHICLE ABRUPTLY STOPPED IN A TRAFFIC SIGNAL WITHOUT GIVING ANY INDICATIONS WHAT SO EVER. WHEN TRIED TO RESTART IT STALLED PRETTY BADLY CAUSING EXCESSIVE VIBRATIONS. THIS HAD JUST 1900 MILES ON IT. VEHICLE DIDN'T HAVE ANY MIL OR ANY VISIBLE INFORMATION ABOUT THE ISSUE. IT CREATED A HUGE TRAFFIC PILE UP DUE TO THE PEAK HOUR IN WHICH THIS PROBLEM STARTED. FEW DAYS AGO THERE WAS ISSUE WITH STARTING BUT IT RESOLVED AFTER COUPLE OF MINUTES, THIS TIME THE VEHICLE HAD TO BE TOWED TO THE DEALERSHIP AND I LOST MY DAYS WORK AND PAY. BIGGEST CONCERN IS HOW ABRUPTLY IT STOPPED IN A BUSY STREET.

7/13/2020

19 more complaints are available in this category.

ENGINE

19 Reports9% of total

Previewing the first 2 complaint summaries.

VEHICLE ROUGH IDLED & EVENTUALLY SHUDDERED TO A STOP. THIS HAPPENED FOUR TIMES WHILE IN GEAR AND IDLING AT APPX 1000-1500 MILES. BETWEEN 1500-2000 MILES, VEHICLE SHUT DOWN WHILE DRIVING APPX 60MPH ON A COUNTY ROAD. AT APPX 2700 MILES, MPGS DRASTICALLY IMPACTED WHEN VEHICLE SUDDENLY STOPPED SHIFTING GEARS PROPERLY WHILE IN MOTION AT APPX 70MPH ON THE HIGHWAY. CHECK ENGINE LIGHT APPEARED WITH MESSAGE REGARDING ECS ISSUES. VEHICLE STILL DRIVES, IT JUST SEEMS TO STRUGGLE WITH EFFICIENCY AND SHIFTING CORRECTLY.

7/8/2020

VEHICLE ABRUPTLY STOPPED IN A TRAFFIC SIGNAL WITHOUT GIVING ANY INDICATIONS WHAT SO EVER. WHEN TRIED TO RESTART IT STALLED PRETTY BADLY CAUSING EXCESSIVE VIBRATIONS. THIS HAD JUST 1900 MILES ON IT. VEHICLE DIDN'T HAVE ANY MIL OR ANY VISIBLE INFORMATION ABOUT THE ISSUE. IT CREATED A HUGE TRAFFIC PILE UP DUE TO THE PEAK HOUR IN WHICH THIS PROBLEM STARTED. FEW DAYS AGO THERE WAS ISSUE WITH STARTING BUT IT RESOLVED AFTER COUPLE OF MINUTES, THIS TIME THE VEHICLE HAD TO BE TOWED TO THE DEALERSHIP AND I LOST MY DAYS WORK AND PAY. BIGGEST CONCERN IS HOW ABRUPTLY IT STOPPED IN A BUSY STREET.

7/13/2020

17 more complaints are available in this category.

SEATS

13 Reports6% of total

Previewing the first 2 complaint summaries.

While exiting the vehicle there was a loud pop from under the drivers seat. Upon inspection the left front weld attaching the drivers seat to the positioning bar to raise and lower the seat bottom had failed and separated completely. This causes the front seat bottom to sit at an angle and not fully attached to the structure of the car, causing a severe safety issue in the event of an accident as the driver is not properly aligned for the airbag, the seat belt no longer aligns correctly on the body, and there is a greater risk of full seat detachment in a collision or while simply driving.

9/20/2023

An independent service center advise us that the gas tank had expanded which could have put my family at risk if exploding or catched on fired. This happend on June 15th 2024 while driving, a sudden explosion coming from the back of the car was heard. Little after the explosion like sound we perceived as if air was coming through the back as if we had a window rolled down. When pulled to check, i notice that the back seat was popped up. No warning on the car was giving prior to the incident. Will take car to Hyundai dealership to have it inspect by them and have a solution.

6/17/2024

11 more complaints are available in this category.

STRUCTURE:BODY

10 Reports5% of total

Previewing the first 2 complaint summaries.

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2020 HYUNDAI SONATA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE DOORS OPENED INDEPENDENTLY WITHOUT THE UNLOCK BUTTON BEING DEPRESSED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO WALLACE HYUNDAI LOCATED AT (3801 SE FEDERAL HWY A, STUART, FL 34997) HOWEVER, THE MECHANIC WAS UNABLE TO DETERMINE THE CAUSE OF FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS INFORMED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 600.

3/23/2020

I LOOKED UP UNDER THE HOOD, IT START RUSTING IN FRAME IN DRIVER SIDE. I CHECKED OTHER 2020 SONATA FROM DEALERSHIP AND THOSE CAR ARE EVEN WORST. THOSE CAR RUSTING DRIVER AND PASSENGER SIDE TOO. *TR

5/9/2020

8 more complaints are available in this category.

FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: WARNINGS

8 Reports4% of total

Previewing the first 2 complaint summaries.

I first begin having an issue with the idle speed. It would jump up to 1,500 RPM, which is twice the normal 750 RPM level It started almost from the very beginning when I purchased this car new in early 2020. I mentioned it at first oil change at dealer at 3,500 miles. I was told it was normal. In the beginning it would come and go. Sometimes not happening for weeks in-between episodes. Then it started to have the check engine light come on after it would happen and stay on. I took it back while light was still on and they kept the car for several days. Said it was the EPV valve and replaced it. Car operated fine for a few days then started up again. It also started to idle up and down from 1500 down to 500 in a rapid succession. I was able to get it to stop sometimes by turning engine off and them back on. Again I contacted dealership and took car back in. They gave me a loaner car and kept my car for over a month. This time they replaced the computer they told me. I did not have car for more than a week before it started doing it again. It has gradually gotten worse and happens more often now. It has also started to have the Forward Collision Avoidance warning come on in addition to check engine light as well. Just this week it actually just died on me while driving and forced me to pull to side of road. Turn off the engine and restart the engine. This happen 3 times in succession. Dealership does not seem to have any idea on what is going on and have been not very helpful. 3 week wait to get an appointment to bring in and no loaner cars available. This problem with the 2020 vehicle is very dangerous. It can idle up at anytime and car will lurch, requiring forceful brakeing . Car dying while driving and losing power as well.

7/25/2022

Tonight on 7/29/2023 after driving between 5-10 miles at night with very light traffic, my dashboard flashed a message telling me "Forward Safety system disabled. Radar blocked." After receiving this message and it clearing from the digital instrument cluster, a small triangle appeared with a exclamation mark. After driving between 1 to 5 miles further down the interstate the triangle cleared from the screen. There is no damage to the grill, or sensor, and no indication of mechanical issues as I was driving down the road. The grill and sensor both also have little to no dirt as I routinely wash my car each weekI have read through multiple other comments like me stating nothing whatsoever is on the front grill that could be obstructing the sensor. And like the other complaints, if there is no warning light, there is no code stored!

7/30/2023

6 more complaints are available in this category.

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

7 Reports3% of total

Previewing the first 2 complaint summaries.

MESSAGE ON INSTRUMENT PANEL STATED'COLLISION AVOIDANCE SYSTEM WAS DISABLED AND RADAR WAS BLOCKED.THE ELECTRIC POWER STEERING ALSO BEGAN TO FUNCTION ERRATICALLY AND A STEERING WHEEL SYMBOL APPEARED AND KEPT CHANGING COLOR FROM GREEN TO WHITE.THIS HAPPENED AFTER DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 400 MILES FROM THE DEALER IN NJ TO CHARLOTTE NC.MILEAGE IS 975.

10/12/2020

Driving, car started making a weird sound followed by a warning light on dashboard with dinging sound to correlate... car became difficult to gas, vehicle motion was lagging where I just knew I had to pull over Bc this car was going to literally stop began to slowly (Bc that’s all car would allow) to proceed forward and I was forced to come to a haunt as I pulled onto side of highway. I then could no longer move it. Turned car off for minute then returned to try to start again, car would not accelerate at all nor turn on fully.. I was forced to wait hour to get a tow... took to shop, no problem such was found , car started & ran again ... this is 3 days later the car again continued the same exact pattern & I was unable to drive any further and forced to once again to get tow. This has to be something of bearings with engine, this car mode is not on list but IT certainly is an issue that I believe is related & should be rectified by Hyundai.

6/9/2021

5 more complaints are available in this category.

STEERING

7 Reports3% of total

Previewing the first 2 complaint summaries.

MESSAGE ON INSTRUMENT PANEL STATED'COLLISION AVOIDANCE SYSTEM WAS DISABLED AND RADAR WAS BLOCKED.THE ELECTRIC POWER STEERING ALSO BEGAN TO FUNCTION ERRATICALLY AND A STEERING WHEEL SYMBOL APPEARED AND KEPT CHANGING COLOR FROM GREEN TO WHITE.THIS HAPPENED AFTER DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 400 MILES FROM THE DEALER IN NJ TO CHARLOTTE NC.MILEAGE IS 975.

10/12/2020

WHEN MAKING TURNS THERE IS A VERY NOTICEABLE SOUND WHEN TURNING BOTH LEFT AND RIGHT, WITH FOR TO MUCH PLAY IN THE STEERING WHILE TO THE POINT THAT IT ALL MOST GOES COMPLETELY AROUND. ..WHILE IN NORMAL DRIVE MODE IT SOUNDS SOUNDS SOMEWHAT LIKE A WASH CYCLE/

10/21/2020

5 more complaints are available in this category.

AIR BAGS

6 Reports3% of total

Previewing the first 2 complaint summaries.

PASSENGER AIR BAG DOES NOT WORK IF PASSENGER USES A CUSHON OR A HEAVY COAT. DEALER SAID THEY CAN NOT CHANGE THIS I WAS TOLD TO CONTACK HYUNDAI. I DID SO NO HELP YET. I BELEAVE THIS A PROBLEM WITH MADEAL AND IT SISTER KIA. A RECALL MAY BE NECESSARY TO GET THIS MATTER TAKEN CARE OF.

8/27/2020

MY PASSENGER AIR BAG WILL NOT WORK WITH A CUSHION.. I TRIED IT WITH NO CUSHION BUT WITH A LONG WINTER COAT AND THE IS NO AIR BAG. HYUNDAI SENT BE BACK TO THE DEALER WHO WAS NOT. ABLE TO SOLVE PROBLEM.. I WILL FILE ANOTHER ONE IF THE SAFETY CAN NOT BE RESOLVEDIF YOU ARE SHORT NO AIR BAG IF YOU NEED A CUSHION

8/27/2020

4 more complaints are available in this category.

VISIBILITY/WIPER

5 Reports2% of total

Previewing the first 2 complaint summaries.

I WAS DRIVING LONG-DISTANCE ON A HIGHWAY AT APPROX 55-60 MPH. THE WHOLE TRIP THROUGH THE ARIZONA DESERT WAS MARKED BY PERIODIC RAIN, AT TIMES VERY HEAVY. IN THE VERY HEAVY BURSTS OF RAIN, THE WINDSHIELD WIPERS DID A TERRIBLE JOB. I HAVE NEVER BEEN SHOCKED BY POORLY PERFORMING WINDSHIELD WIPERS. MY COMPANION EVEN COMMENTED ON HOW UNSAFE IT IS. THE PROBLEM MAY BE TWO-FOLD: (1) IT SEEMS LIKE THE WIPERS NEEDED ONE MORE SPEED SETTINGS, A FASTER ONE. (2) THE FACTORY BLADES MAY NOT BE EFFECTIVE. THIS IS A 2 MONTH OLD CAR. IT ALSO SEEMED TO BE A PROBLEM ANYTIME I HAD TO TURN THE WIPERS ON THEIR HIGHEST SETTING EVEN LATER ON URBAN FREEWAYS - I NEEDED A HIGHER ONE. I PLAN TO REPLACE THE BLADES AND HOPE THAT HELPS. I'VE NEVER BEEN DRIVING AND FEARED I WAS IN DANGER BECAUSE OF THE WIPERS. I DON'T HAVE ANY DOCUMENTATION. NOTHING IS VISIBLY BROKEN.

2/24/2020

Sunroof shattered/exploded for no known reason while driving. Resulted in glass falling towards cabin of vehicle as well as loud bang.

9/19/2023

3 more complaints are available in this category.

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

4 Reports2% of total

Previewing the first 2 complaint summaries.

The contact owns a 2020 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated while driving approximately 65 MPH, there was a booming sound heard and suddenly there was an abnormal fuel odor inside the cabin of the vehicle. The vehicle was towed to the local dealer who replaced a fuel sensor. The contact stated that later, while driving, the rear seats started to raise up, and became extremely hot. The contact parked to inspect the vehicle and discovered that the fuel tank had expanded underneath the vehicle. Due to the failure, the rear seats became burned and melted. The cause of the failure was not yet determined, and the vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 52,000.

7/25/2024

The contact owns a 2020 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, there was an abnormal gasoline odor inside the vehicle. The contact then heard a loud pop and pulled over to the shoulder of the roadway. After a visual inspection, the contact observed gasoline leaking from the fuel tank filler neck, even though the access door and gas cap were both securely closed. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who diagnosed a failure with the canister purge valve, causing the fuel tank to swell, resulting in damages to the fuel pump. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, and a case was opened. The failure mileage was 47,000.

8/5/2024

2 more complaints are available in this category.

BACK OVER PREVENTION

3 Reports1% of total

Previewing the first 2 complaint summaries.

The contact owns a 2020 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated that after shifting into reverse(R), the back over prevention camera screen temporarily displayed an image before the screen went black. The contact stated that the failure had become a recurring failure, but recently became a constant failure. The contact had not taken the vehicle to a dealer or independent mechanic to be diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 64,000.

6/3/2025

The contact owns a 2020 Hyundai Sonata. While the contact's wife was reversing, the back over prevention camera system displayed a black screen. The dealer was made aware of the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The contact referenced an unknown recall with a similar failure; however, the VIN was not associated. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and a case was filed. The failure mileage was approximately 46,000.

9/12/2025

1 more complaint is available in this category.

STRUCTURE

2 Reports1% of total

Previewing the first 2 complaint summaries.

REAR DOORS RETAIN WATER EVERY TIME IT RAINS. WHEN YOU OPEN THE REAR DOORS WATER DRAINS OUT OF THE CAR. BROUGHT CAR TO HYUNDAI DEALERSHIP WHO VERIFIED THE PROBLEM AND CONFIRMED THE PROBLEM WITH OTHER NEW CARS ON THEIR LOT, ON APRIL 21, 2020. DEALERSHIP CONTACTED HYUNDAI CORPORATE FOR GUIDANCE AND THERE HAS BEEN NO RESPONSE TO DATE. *TR

5/27/2020

The contact owns a 2020 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated that upon exiting the vehicle during a rainstorm, she became aware that water had filled the interior of the rear driver's side door panel, which began to leak when the door was open. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who was unable to determine how the water was entering the door panel. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, and a case was opened. The failure mileage was 47,000.

8/21/2024

WHEELS

2 Reports1% of total

Previewing the first 2 complaint summaries.

ON AUGUST 14TH,2020, I PURCHASED A VEHICLE FROM THE SHOWROOM FLOOR FROM CRAIN HYUNDAI OF CONWAY, ARKANSAS. THE CAR WAS AESTHETICALLY PLEASING AND ONLY HAD 46 MILES ON THE SPEEDOMETER. AT THE TIME OF THE PURCHASE I WAS NOT AWARE OF THE TERM "MODIFICATION" NOR THE RAMIFICATION ASSOCIATED WITH HAVING A VEHICLE MODIFIED. I ASSUMED THE DEALERSHIP WERE RESPONSIBLE FOR PROVIDING ME WITH A SAFE AND EFFICIENT VEHICLE. THE CAR HAD ADDED EQUIPMENT: CRAIN CARE PKG: $1,397.00 - WHEEL LOCKS: $89.00 - WINDOW TINT: $189.00 - BLACK OUT PACKAGE: $4,295.00, WHICH I LATER LEARNED THE AMERICAN RACING RIM #AR934 FASTLANE, DOES NOT FIT A 2020 HYUNDAI SONATA, THEY ARE 20 INCH RIMS AND HAD EXTENSA HP 225/35R20 90W TIRES AND THE RECOMMENDED TIRE IS 235/45R18. WITHIN A MONTH AFTER THE NEW CAR PURCHASE IT RAIN AND THE CAR LOST TRACTION AND BEGAN TO SLIP AND SLIDE. I PROPOSE IMPLEMENTING LAWS TO GOVERN DEALERSHIP MODIFICATION OF VEHICLES AND HOLD SAID DEALERSHIP RESPONSIBLE FOR INFORMING THE CONSUMER OF THE NEGATIVE RAMIFICATIONS INVOLVED WITH KNOWINGLY PURCHASING A VEHICLE FOR AESTHETIC DESIRES. AFTER LEARNING OF MY MISTAKE THE HYUNDAI CORPORATION WOULD NOT NEGOTIATE A REASONABLE AGREEMENT WITH ME, AND CLOSED THE COMPLAINT LEAVING ME WITH AN UNSAFE VEHICLE THAT WAS ALTERED BY A THIRD PARTY COMPANY WITHIN THE DEALERSHIP, NAME: MOTOR SPORTS AUTHORITY. THE DEALERSHIP WOULD NOT RELEASE FROM THAT CONTRACT AND THE WORKMANSHIP OF THE BLACK OUT PACKAGE IS UNRAVELLING AND I DISCOVERED THE MODIFICATION HAS DECREASE THE VALUE OF THE CAR, WHEN I THOUGHT IT WOULD INCREASE IN VALUE. I ALSO LEARN THE ADDED EQUIPMENT STATED ABOVE WAS NOT INCLUDED ON THE VEHICLE PURCHASE INVOICE WHICH EFFECTS POSSIBLE REPAIRS AND/OR REPLACEMENT CONCERNING AUTOMOBILE INSURANCE COVERAGE. DEALERSHIP SHOULD BE HELD ACCOUNTABLE AND RESPONSIBLE FOR INFORMING CUSTOMERS OF MODIFICATION AND BE HELD LEGALLY BINDING FOR THE VEHICLE SAFETY

10/23/2020

So I was driving down the highway and I went to pass a car, (I never get close when passing) I was probably at least a quarter mile away from the car I was passing. I have every safety feature turned off, as I have, since buying the car almost 2 years ago. All of a sudden, I’m not sure if my sensor was off or what, but I’m assuming it thought I was too close to that car and it just started swerving all over the highway. I went left/right 4 times before I was finally able to regain control, I couldn’t couter-act the swerves, nor could I hold my steering wheel straight to stop them. Luckily there were very few people on the highway as it was early in the morning. Had the time of day been different, I probably wouldn’t be here today, and some others probably wouldn’t be either, at least lots of injuries I’m sure. It hasn’t been confirmed, i don’t even know how to do that honestly, I was the only one in the car. I didn’t call anyone/say anything until right now because I was already running late for work, I was shaken up but I just called my parents and they said to look up recalls/file a report, which it seems like this is how I do it? There were no warning signs, nothing, I was driving for already about 30 minutes and everything was fine, never had any issue like this ever before. Like I said I’ve had this car for almost 2 years and she has been an absolute dream, aside from this mishap. But now I am very terrified to drive it, i don’t know what happened honestly, I don’t know what could have caused it, but this is why I hate smart cars. My safety was put at risk by what I assume was a safety feature malfunction of some kind.

6/3/2025

LANE DEPARTURE: ASSIST

2 Reports1% of total

Previewing the first 2 complaint summaries.

GASES FROM THE DASHBOARD HEATING CAUSE A FILM TO FORM BETWEEN THE WINDSHIELD AND THE CAMERA. BECAUSE OF THIS, IN HEAVY DIRECT SUNLIGHT, LANE KEEP ASSIST TOGGLES ON AND OFF WITHOUT WARNING CAUSING UNINTENDED LANE DEPARTURES WITH OUT WARNING. ALSO, WHEN USING SMART CRUISE CONTROL, THE VEHICLE SLOWS TO A STOP BUT MAY CONTINUE MOVING SLOWLY EVEN AFTER DISPLAYING THE PRESS GAS TO CONTINUE SCREEN. THE AUTO HOLD LIGHT DOES NOT ILLUMINATE.

11/4/2020

The driver seat belt pops out sometimes for reasons unknown. The speakers suddenly stop working at random times so I got lost while listening for navigation directions safely paying attention to the road instead of watching the screen for upcoming turns. And the biggest one, a few times I almost crashed into oncoming cars and guard rails because if the road has a dip the sonata decides to jerk hard to the side and overcorrect itself when lane assist is on. When the road is level it just beeps annoyingly loudly when it can't see the lines or you accidentally cross over it, but does not actively assist even tho active lane assist is on. This is a major safety issue!!!!!

7/19/2021

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

2 Reports1% of total

Previewing the first 2 complaint summaries.

I took my vehicle into the dealership when it was under 12,000 miles for another issue and mentioned a problem with the headlight on the right fogging up with moisture. I was immediately told that this had to be seen with their eyes because light cost more than $1,000. It has continued for over 1 1/2 years. Early this month, I took a picture at night and in the morning. The service manager wanted to add another hoop; can you get a picture of the water in it? The water is droplets on the light, decreasing visibility on the road. Pictures are attached. There is one picture that shows the left headlight with no issue.

12/17/2022

My vehicle is missing it's third brake light. We have confirmed that it was forgotten during manufacturing. The dealer won't cover it. They say call corporate. Corporate says dealer has to fix it. In the mean time I'm pulled over for improper equipment, and brake light being out. It's a serious safety issue, covered by federal law. They quoted over $1000 to have it fixed at my expense.

5/2/2024

LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES

1 Report0% of total

Previewing the first 1 complaint summaries.

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2020 HYUNDAI SONATA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE DOORS OPENED INDEPENDENTLY WITHOUT THE UNLOCK BUTTON BEING DEPRESSED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO WALLACE HYUNDAI LOCATED AT (3801 SE FEDERAL HWY A, STUART, FL 34997) HOWEVER, THE MECHANIC WAS UNABLE TO DETERMINE THE CAUSE OF FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS INFORMED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 600.

3/23/2020

LANE DEPARTURE: BLIND SPOT DETECTION

1 Report0% of total

Previewing the first 1 complaint summaries.

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2020 HYUNDAI SONATA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE PASSENGER'S SIDE BLIND SPOT DETECTION SYSTEM FAILED TO ACTIVATE. THE CONTACT ALSO STATED THAT THE FORWARD COLLISION WARNING LIGHT INTERMITTENTLY ACTIVATED WHILE STOPPED AT A RED LIGHT. THE CONTACT STATED THE REAR BRAKE ASSIST ACTIVATED INTERMITTENTLY ON SEVERAL OCCASIONS. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO NASSIEF HYUNDAI LOCATED AT 1059 OH-46 NORTH, JEFFERSON, OH 44047, AND PRESTON HYUNDAI OF SHARON LOCATED AT 1251 E STATE ST, SHARON, PA 16146, WHERE THE MECHANICS WERE UNABLE TO DUPLICATE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE HAD NOT BEEN DIAGNOSED NOR REPAIRED AS OF YET. THE MANUFACTURER HAD NOT BEEN INFORMED OF FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 623. *BF *TR

8/31/2020

SERVICE BRAKES

1 Report0% of total

Previewing the first 1 complaint summaries.

I OWN A 2020 HYUNDAI SONATA. I PURCHASED THE CAR ON JANUARY THIS YEAR THE MILES IN THE CAR IS 700 MILES. A MONTH AFTER THE CAR STAR GIVING ME PROBLEM WITH BREAK. SOMEHOW THE CAR APPLIES THE EMERGENCY BREAK BY ITSELF AND DOESN'T WANT TO MOVE. WHEN I DRIVE THE CAR SUDDENLY STOP BY ITSELF AND GIVING ME MESSAGE LIKE: TO MOVE THE CAR PUT YOUR SEAT BELT, LOCK ALL THE DOOR EVEN WHEN I HAVE MY SEATBELT AND DOORS ARE LOCK THE CAR DO THAT WHEN EVER THE LESS I EXPECTED. I TOOK THE CAR THREE TIME FOR REPAIR AND UPDATE AND THE CAR GIVE ME THE SAME PROBLEM. THE DEALER GAVE ME A LOANER ANOTHER 2020 SONATA AND HAVE THE SAME PROBLEM. THIS IS A VERY DANGEROUS ISSUES BECAUSE IF IS RAINY OR SNOWING. THE DEALER DOESN'T FIND ANYTHING WRONG WITH THE CAR WHEN THEY DRIVE THE CAR. I TOLD THEM THAT HAPPEN WHEN THE LEES EXPECTED

9/18/2020

ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)

1 Report0% of total

Previewing the first 1 complaint summaries.

I OWN A 2020 HYUNDAI SONATA. I PURCHASED THE CAR ON JANUARY THIS YEAR THE MILES IN THE CAR IS 700 MILES. A MONTH AFTER THE CAR STAR GIVING ME PROBLEM WITH BREAK. SOMEHOW THE CAR APPLIES THE EMERGENCY BREAK BY ITSELF AND DOESN'T WANT TO MOVE. WHEN I DRIVE THE CAR SUDDENLY STOP BY ITSELF AND GIVING ME MESSAGE LIKE: TO MOVE THE CAR PUT YOUR SEAT BELT, LOCK ALL THE DOOR EVEN WHEN I HAVE MY SEATBELT AND DOORS ARE LOCK THE CAR DO THAT WHEN EVER THE LESS I EXPECTED. I TOOK THE CAR THREE TIME FOR REPAIR AND UPDATE AND THE CAR GIVE ME THE SAME PROBLEM. THE DEALER GAVE ME A LOANER ANOTHER 2020 SONATA AND HAVE THE SAME PROBLEM. THIS IS A VERY DANGEROUS ISSUES BECAUSE IF IS RAINY OR SNOWING. THE DEALER DOESN'T FIND ANYTHING WRONG WITH THE CAR WHEN THEY DRIVE THE CAR. I TOLD THEM THAT HAPPEN WHEN THE LEES EXPECTED

9/18/2020

FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: ADAPTIVE CRUISE CONTROL

1 Report0% of total

Previewing the first 1 complaint summaries.

GASES FROM THE DASHBOARD HEATING CAUSE A FILM TO FORM BETWEEN THE WINDSHIELD AND THE CAMERA. BECAUSE OF THIS, IN HEAVY DIRECT SUNLIGHT, LANE KEEP ASSIST TOGGLES ON AND OFF WITHOUT WARNING CAUSING UNINTENDED LANE DEPARTURES WITH OUT WARNING. ALSO, WHEN USING SMART CRUISE CONTROL, THE VEHICLE SLOWS TO A STOP BUT MAY CONTINUE MOVING SLOWLY EVEN AFTER DISPLAYING THE PRESS GAS TO CONTINUE SCREEN. THE AUTO HOLD LIGHT DOES NOT ILLUMINATE.

11/4/2020

EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:INFOTAINMENT:BLUETOOTH/WIFI

1 Report0% of total

Previewing the first 1 complaint summaries.

2020 HYUNDAI SONATA. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO LACK OF NORMAL BLUETOOTH FUNCTIONALITY MAKING VEHICLE UNSAFE. *LD *JS

12/18/2020

LANE DEPARTURE: LANE KEEP: AUTOMATIC STEERING

1 Report0% of total

Previewing the first 1 complaint summaries.

The driver seat belt pops out sometimes for reasons unknown. The speakers suddenly stop working at random times so I got lost while listening for navigation directions safely paying attention to the road instead of watching the screen for upcoming turns. And the biggest one, a few times I almost crashed into oncoming cars and guard rails because if the road has a dip the sonata decides to jerk hard to the side and overcorrect itself when lane assist is on. When the road is level it just beeps annoyingly loudly when it can't see the lines or you accidentally cross over it, but does not actively assist even tho active lane assist is on. This is a major safety issue!!!!!

7/19/2021

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:DISC:ROTOR

1 Report0% of total

Previewing the first 1 complaint summaries.

The contact owns a 2020 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated that while depressing the brake pedal, the front of the vehicle was wobbling. The vehicle was taken to a dealer where it was diagnosed that the rotors needed to be resurfaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 11,000.

10/25/2021

FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE

1 Report0% of total

Previewing the first 1 complaint summaries.

The contact leased a 2020 Hyundai Sonata. The contact state that the radar in the vehicle interacted with the radar in Ford vehicles. While parking in a parking spot there was a beeping sound detected. While at a stoplight with a vehicle in front to the side, the radar engaged when a Ford vehicle drove up. The contact stated while turning nearby another Ford vehicle the radar engaged and the driver applied the brakes. The Forward Collision-Avoidance warning light was illuminated. The contact called the local dealer, but the vehicle was not taken to be diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was approximately 6.

12/10/2021

BACK OVER PREVENTION: WARNINGS

1 Report0% of total

Previewing the first 1 complaint summaries.

Whenever I am close to a Tesla in traffic or at a stoplight, my parking sensors go off. I believe that the frequency of my Sonata parking sensors is being interfered with by Tesla sensors. This could lead to unexpected braking in traffic. This problem has not been reproduced by a dealer or independent service center. It has not been inspected by the manufacturer, police, or insurance representatives. Warning sensors go off.

5/19/2022

VISIBILITY:SUN/MOON ROOF ASSEMBLY

1 Report0% of total

Previewing the first 1 complaint summaries.

The Panoramic sunroof has a line fracture crack which exploded for unknown reasons. A rock or any foreign object DID NOT hit the sunroof to cause it to shatter. Residue from the glass shattering got into my eyes. Freeman Hyundai stated that an object hit the sunroof it would not be covered under their warranty. A object did not hit the sunroof and it looks like Hyundai has a history of sunroof shattering unexpectedly. There were no warning signs prior to the sunroof shattering.

9/26/2022

STRUCTURE:FRAME AND MEMBERS:UNDERBODY SHIELDS

1 Report0% of total

Previewing the first 1 complaint summaries.

2020 HYUNDAI SONATA. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARD TO GRINDING NOISE WHILE DRIVING. THE CONSUMER STATED UPON INSPECTION BY TOYOTA, IT WAS DISCOVERED THAT THE UNDERSHIELD HAD COME LOOSE AND DRAGGING.

10/19/2022

CHEST CLIP, BUCKLE, HARNESS

1 Report0% of total

Previewing the first 1 complaint summaries.

I have the Chicco Fit360 and the magnetic chest clip is no longer magnetic it was coming apart with little to no movement. I would buckle the chest clip and then move it to put it in position and it would come apart. I know this is a common problem with this particular car seat and something needs to be done before a child dies or gets seriously injured because the chest clip comes apart while driving!

11/14/2024

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE:AUXILLARY TANK

1 Report0% of total

Previewing the first 1 complaint summaries.

The contact owns a 2020 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated while the contact was refueling the vehicle, the fuel was coming back out of the fuel tank onto the ground surface. The contact stated that the failure had occurred while traveling out of town. In addition, the contact stated that the failure had occurred several times and the check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed a failed fuel tank sensor. The contact was informed that the fuel tank sensor light. The contact stated that when the independent mechanic pulled out the rear seat to perform the repair, the mechanic noticed that the metal sheet under the rear seat was fractured due to the pressure of the fuel tank. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact was advised to take the vehicle to the dealer. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, however the dealer declined the repair. The contact was advised not to drive the vehicle and informed that the vehicle was a ticking bomb. In addition, the contact was advised to take the vehicle to a collision shop, prior to the repair being performed. The vehicle was not repaired or diagnosed by an independent mechanic or the dealer. The contact's insurance declined the repair stating that the failure was due to a manufacturer defect. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and a case was filed. In addition, the contact was informed that the repair was not covered under warranty because the contact was the second owner of the vehicle. In addition, the contact's vehicle mileage was above the 60,000 mileage warranty coverage. The failure mileage was approximately 99,230.

11/14/2024

FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: AUTOMATIC EMERGENCY BRAKING

1 Report0% of total

Previewing the first 1 complaint summaries.

while driving my car on 3 different days the car slowed down, and the lights came EPB on, on the dashboard the EPB light came on the check engine light came on , forward collision light, auto hold light, slippery road light , and caution light with a ! mark.

12/9/2024

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP

1 Report0% of total

Previewing the first 1 complaint summaries.

The contact owns a 2020 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated while driving at 35 MPH, the vehicle made a booming sound. There were no warning lights illuminated. The contact then started to hear the sound outside the vehicle and noticed that the vehicle was losing gasoline very quickly. The vehicle started to stall, and the gas tank was almost empty when the contact arrived home. The vehicle was then taken to a dealer where it was diagnosed with floor damage, and the floor damage showed deformation on the rear passenger’s seat, and the fuel cover had popped off due to the deformation, which caused the noise in the cabin. The vehicle was towed to another dealer where the vehicle was repaired, with a new fuel pump cover, and the rear seats were replaced. On another occasion, the fuel pump failure reoccurred. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 77,524.

3/11/2025

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:STARTER ASSEMBLY

1 Report0% of total

Previewing the first 1 complaint summaries.

The contact owns a 2020 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked, the vehicle failed to start as intended. The contact stated that several unknown warning lights were illuminated. The contact stated that the vehicle eventually started and drove normally. The vehicle was then taken to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed and determined that the starter needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 27,000.

11/20/2025

About This Data

Data and Methodology

MethodologyHow we score →

Scores are derived from NHTSA recalls and owner complaints, normalized by vehicle segment averages.

FAQ

What are the most common owner complaints for the 2020 Hyundai Sonata?

The most reported complaint category for the 2020 Hyundai Sonata is FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM, with 36 owner reports. That is about 17% of all complaints logged here. Other recurring themes include FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM, ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, UNKNOWN OR OTHER.

Are complaints about the 2020 Hyundai Sonata a serious warning sign?

Potentially. 107 complaint reports fall into higher-attention systems such as brakes, steering, engine, powertrain, fuel, suspension, airbags, or electrical components. That does not prove every vehicle has a defect, but repeated complaints in those systems justify a more careful pre-purchase inspection.

How should buyers use complaint data for the 2020 Hyundai Sonata?

Use complaints as an early pattern to investigate, not a standalone verdict. Start with the top complaint categories, compare those themes against the recall report and maintenance guide, then inspect service records for evidence that the same problem areas were already addressed. If the same issue appears repeatedly across complaints and recalls, treat it as a real ownership-risk flag.

Are complaints about the 2020 Hyundai Sonata severe?

107 complaint reports involve higher-attention systems such as brakes, steering, engine, powertrain, fuel, suspension, airbags, or electrical components, which is enough to justify a focused inspection before purchase.

Complaint list entries are sourced from owner-submitted NHTSA ODI records.

Read complaint summaries

Hyundai Sonata: How should complaint data influence buying decisions?

Use complaint patterns together with recalls and maintenance guidance to estimate ownership risk and inspection priorities.

Carfocal links complaint data directly to recall and maintenance routes for the same model year.

Return to full vehicle report
Complaint entries
217
Top-topic view
5 grouped topics shown
Primary source
NHTSA ODI owner complaint records

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In this guide

  1. 01Overview
  2. 02Common Problems
  3. 03Owner Complaints
  4. 04Data and Methodology

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