Hyundai Sonata Engine Recall and Theta II Settlement Help
Certain 2011–2019 Hyundai Sonata vehicles with 2.0L or 2.4L Theta II GDI engines may fall under the Hyundai Theta II settlement pathway. Coverage still depends on VIN, engine type, KSDS/software update status, maintenance records, symptoms, and dealer review.
Lifetime
Warranty Coverage
2011 – 2019
Covered Model Years
6
Active Recall Campaigns
1-800-633-5151
Hyundai Consumer Affairs
Eligible Hyundai Sonata Model Years
The following Hyundai Sonata model years may fall under engine settlement, recall, or warranty-extension pathways. Eligibility depends on your exact engine, VIN, KSDS/software update status, maintenance history, and dealership findings — not the model year alone.
No Mileage Limit
For qualifying vehicles, the Theta II settlement provides a lifetime warranty on the engine short block assembly with no mileage restrictions — but eligibility still depends on VIN, engine type, KSDS status, and manufacturer review.
Active Recall Campaigns for Hyundai Sonata
Reference these NHTSA recall numbers in all communications with the dealer and manufacturer.
20V750
NHTSA Recall Campaign
20V751
NHTSA Recall Campaign
21V077
NHTSA Recall Campaign
21V078
NHTSA Recall Campaign
NHTSA 177
NHTSA Recall Campaign
NHTSA 178
NHTSA Recall Campaign
Common Hyundai Sonata Engine Failure Symptoms
Document any of these symptoms with dates and photos before contacting the dealer.
Engine knocking or ticking at startup
Oil pressure warning light on dashboard
Check engine light with P1326 or P0011 codes
Engine stalling while driving
Excessive oil consumption
Engine vibration or rough idle
Burning oil smell
Engine seized or complete failure
Why Hyundai Dealers Deny Sonata Warranty Claims
These are the most common denial tactics — and why each one can be challenged.
"KSDS not installed" — Hyundai's own April 2022 Dealer Best Practice (Service Campaign T3G) explicitly removed KSDS as a prerequisite for bearing failure claims.
"No maintenance records" — Magnuson-Moss Act applies. Hyundai must prove the lack of maintenance caused the failure.
"High mileage" — No mileage limit under the Theta II settlement. Lifetime coverage applies to all eligible Sonata models.
"Engine failure not related to recall" — Request a written explanation of the inspection findings and the specific reason for exclusion.
"Prior repair by independent shop" — Independent shop repairs do not void your Hyundai warranty under the Magnuson-Moss Act.
Watch: Hyundai Sonata Engine Recall Explained
Carl Adams from Carl's Garage walks through exactly what Hyundai Sonata owners need to know about the engine recall, how to fight warranty denials, and what steps to take right now.
Video by Carl's Garage on YouTube — subscribe for the latest Kia & Hyundai recall updates.
Hyundai Sonata Engine Recall — FAQ
Important: This page is for educational recall, warranty, and settlement guidance only. It does not guarantee that your vehicle qualifies for a free engine replacement, reimbursement, recall repair, or warranty approval. Eligibility depends on your exact year, model, engine, VIN, recall/campaign history, KSDS or software update status, maintenance records, mileage, failure symptoms, dealership inspection, and current manufacturer policy. Always verify your VIN through NHTSA, Kia, Hyundai, or the official settlement lookup before assuming coverage.