Recalls ·2016 Hyundai Sonata Plug-in Hybrid

2016 Hyundai Sonata Plug-in Hybrid recalls and complaints

NHTSA lists 2 recalls for the 2016 Hyundai Sonata Plug-in Hybrid; the most frequently affected component is exterior lighting — turn signal. Owners filed 40 complaints, most often about engine. Among the 4 model years of this model in the database, 2016 ranks #1 for number of recalls.

Recalls2
Complaints40
Crashes reported1in stored complaints

Check your own vehicle by VIN at NHTSA →

Recalls (2)

Exterior lighting — Turn signalCampaign 21V749000 · 24 Sep 2021

Problem: Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2015-2017 Sonata, 2016-2017 Sonata Hybrid, and Sonata Plug-In Hybrid vehicles. The Smart Junction Box (SJB) software logic may not properly interpret the signals received from the multifunction switch, which could cause the turn signal to activate in the opposite direction of what the driver intended.

Risk: A turn signal that activates in the opposite direction of what was intended by the driver increases the risk of a crash.

Remedy: Dealers will update the SJB software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed November 19, 2021. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 210.

Hybrid propulsion systemCampaign 18V166000 · 12 Mar 2018

Problem: Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2016-2018 Hyundai Sonata Plug-In Hybrid vehicles. These vehicles are equipped with a Voltage Protection Device (VPD), designed to protect the high voltage battery module, that may activate inadvertently.

Risk: If the VPD activates while the vehicle is being operated in Electric Vehicle (EV) mode, there may be a loss of power, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy: Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will remove the VPD switch and install a new Battery Management System (BMS) that contains an Overvoltage Protection Device (OPD). The recall is expected to begin May 2018. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 175.

What owners complain about

Share of the 40 most recent complaints stored for this model year, by component. Owners can list more than one component.

Engine32 · 80%
Power train7 · 18%
Unknown or other5 · 12%
Electrical system4 · 10%
Fuel/propulsion system4 · 10%
Vehicle speed control2 · 5%
Engine and engine cooling2 · 5%
Service brakes2 · 5%

From owner complaints

Backup vision system failed. Couldn't see vision because screen was blank. Radio didn't work either. Went to dealership with the problem they said it was not covered by the warranty. Paid to have it fixed.

Electrical system · Sep 2026 · NHTSA complaint record

The vehicle experienced a Theta II engine failure at under 57,830 miles while driving on northbound [XXX] near the [XXX] Parkway U-turn in [XXX]. The engine made a loud noise and lost power. I was able to coast to the far right side of the U-turn under the bridge. I called HERO (Austin's emergency roadside…

Engine · Sep 2026 · NHTSA complaint record

I am concerned that the engine may seize or stall without warning while driving, creating a risk of crash, injury, or death. The Theta II engine defect is known to cause engine seizure, stalling, and fire. Hyundai has denied warranty coverage based on mileage and second-owner status — both of which are explicitly…

Engine · Sep 2026 · NHTSA complaint record

The car died while going 70 on a highway with no warning signs. The car completely shut off and will not turn over or move at all.

Engine · Mar 2026 · NHTSA complaint record

How this year compares

Recalls per model year for this model.

20162
20172
20181
20190

Related pages

Full specificationsAll model years2016 Hyundai lineup

Source

Recall and complaint records from the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). A recall listed here may not apply to every vehicle of this model year — always check your VIN with NHTSA or a dealer.

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