Common problems with the 2021 Hyundai Sonata primarily revolve around engine issues. While the Sonata has been a popular midsize sedan, some owners have reported experiencing significant engine-related concerns.
Several complaints have also been filed regarding the 2021 Sonata’s engine performance. These issues include unexpected power loss while driving, engine stalling, excessive oil consumption, and faulty batteries. Some owners have also reported frequent illumination of the check engine light.
As of now, there haven’t been as many recalls for the 2021 Sonata as some other vehicles, but the engine problems have been a cause for concern among owners and potential buyers alike.
Reliability is a crucial factor for most consumers when researching and purchasing a new vehicle. New cars represent a significant investment, and conducting thorough research before making a purchase is always advisable.
However, with the abundance of information available about every vehicle model released, it can be challenging to determine which details are most relevant to your purchasing decision.
In this article, we’ll summarize the most common complaints about the 2021 Hyundai Sonata, focusing on the reported engine problems. We’ll also explain California’s Lemon Law and how it might apply if you’re experiencing persistent issues with your 2021 Sonata.
2021 Hyundai Sonata Engine Problems
Engine problems in the 2021 Hyundai Sonata can be serious and costly, potentially leading to complete engine failure and expensive replacements.
Some Sonata owners have reported concerning symptoms including:
- Sudden engine stalling
- Coolant leaks
- Unexpected power loss while driving
- Engine surging
These issues affect performance and pose safety risks, especially at high speeds or in heavy traffic.
Stalling or sudden power loss often indicates severe underlying problems. If you experience these, seek immediate attention from a qualified mechanic or Hyundai service center.
Coolant leaks or engine surging, if ignored, can lead to catastrophic engine failure, resulting in extensive damage and higher repair costs.
Recalls for 2021 Hyundai Sonata
There have been three recalls for the 2021 Hyundai Sonata:
- A recall of 56148 units on October 6, 2022, for the loss of drive power that would increase the risk of a crash – NHTSA Recall Number: 22V-746.
- A recall of 26413 units on December 28, 2021, for the windshield that detaches from the vehicle during a crash, which can increase the risk of injury – NHTSA Recall Number: 21v-00M.
- A recall of 15752 units on July 9, 2021, for the fuel leak that would increase the risk of a fire – NHTSA Recall Number: 21V-524.
Complaints From 2021 Sonata Owners
From NHTSA:
“My car will power off randomly, or will seem as though there is no power. I have to revert back to the manual key to enter the vehicle and hit the 12vlt reset to power it back on. This happened at least 3 times. Once while operating the vehicle, and twice while the vehicle was left parked. This is not a low battery issue as, the car will only do this occasionally, and not every time I enter and turn on the vehicle. There is no error code to follow this mishap as all power goes out and the dealer maintenance has nothing to work with.”
From CarComplaints.com:
“The cabin heater started blowing cold air in February. One shop said the car was low on coolant and topped it off. I made an appointment to take the car to a dealer because it’s still under warranty (<37k miles). I had to wait 3 weeks. A few days before my appointment, the cabin heater started blowing cold air, again. There is no indicator that the coolant is low. The engine temperature is one of a dozen gauges one can scroll thru, but the “engine overheating” warning started flashing before I thought to check the temperature guage. Smoke came out of the exhaust and, once stopped, from under the hood. There was a risk of an engine fire and/or permanent damage to the engine.”
From CarComplaints.com:
“While driving, engine alerted that it was overheating. Pulled over and coolant was very low, so I refilled it and then while driving to my family’s garage to use the lift, saw white exhaust smoke. Took it to an independent mechanic, and in the ~10 mile trip there, over a quart of coolant had been burned off. He was able to reproduce the issue. No issues with the engine operation, it runs well and efficient, no check engine light. Mechanic found that a coolant line runs to the middle of the exhaust system and that this seems to be the issue. Other owners seem to have reported this same issue with this same model and roughly the same year, in which the muffler assembly needs replaced due to coolant leaking into the exhaust. Only prior issue was less warm air out of the vents for the previous week or so, but no other issues or warnings.”
California Lemon Law and Your Rights
If you’re dealing with persistent engine problems in your 2021 Hyundai Sonata, California’s Lemon Law might provide you with important protections. This law is designed to help consumers who have purchased or leased vehicles with ongoing defects. Here’s what you need to know:
Key Points of California’s Lemon Law
- Warranty coverage: The law applies to defects or problems covered under the manufacturer’s warranty.
- Timeframe: Issues must occur within 18 months of receiving the vehicle or before it reaches 18,000 miles, whichever happens first.
- Repair attempts: The manufacturer must be given a reasonable number of attempts to fix the problem. This typically means at least two attempts for serious safety issues, or four attempts for less severe problems.
- Out of service: If your Sonata has been in the shop for repairs for a total of 30 days or more, it may qualify under the law.
- Substantial impairment: The defect must significantly affect the vehicle’s use, value, or safety.
Your Rights Under the Law
If your 2021 Sonata meets these criteria due to engine problems, you may be entitled to:
- A replacement vehicle of similar value
- A refund of the purchase price (minus a reasonable amount for usage)
- Coverage of incidental expenses related to the defect
It’s important to understand that the manufacturer may dispute your claim. They might argue that the problem doesn’t substantially impair the vehicle or that they haven’t had a reasonable number of repair attempts.
Got a Lemon? We’ve Got Your Back
Consumer rights are protected by various laws, with the Lemon Law being particularly powerful. However, these rights are only enforced when consumers take action.
Manufacturers may continue selling defective vehicles if not held accountable by consumers and their legal representatives.
If you’re considering a Lemon Law claim for your 2021 Hyundai Sonata with engine problems, working with an experienced Hyundai lemon law attorney can significantly strengthen your case. At Consumer Action Law Group, we’re ready to assist and represent you.
For a free case evaluation, contact us today by calling (818) 254-8413.
Taking this step can help ensure your rights are protected and you receive fair treatment under California’s Lemon Law.
