The Recall Desk
Our severity:SevereNHTSA·20V746000·Announced 2020-12-01

Hyundai Recalls Sonata Hybrid, Santa Fe, and Veloster for Engine Bearing Wear

Hyundai is recalling specific 2011-2016 models because engine connecting rod bearings may wear prematurely, potentially causing engine damage, fire, or stalling.

What this means for you

Our assessment, not the agency’s: severity 4/5 (Severe).

The hazard poses a serious risk of illness, injury, or structural failure. Stop using the product immediately and contact the manufacturer for a refund or repair.

Our severity reasoning: The recall involves a structural vehicle defect (engine bearing wear) that can lead to significant injury or property damage via fire or crash, meeting the criteria for a Severe rating.

Plain-English summary

Hyundai Motor America is recalling certain 2015-2016 Veloster, 2012 Santa Fe, 2011-2013 Sonata Hybrid, and 2016 Sonata Hybrid vehicles. The recall involves approximately 128,948 vehicles where the connecting rod bearings inside the engine may wear prematurely. Over time, this wear can result in engine damage.

A damaged engine can increase the risk of a fire or cause an engine stall, which increases the risk of a crash. Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the engine. If bearing damage is found, the engine will be replaced. Dealers will also install a software update containing a new Knock Sensor Detection System (KSDS). Repairs will be performed free of charge.

The recall began on March 31, 2021. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 198. Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.

The recalled product

Product
HYUNDAI SONATA HYBRID, SANTA FE, VELOSTER
Brand
HYUNDAI
Manufacturer
Hyundai Motor America
Category
Vehicle — Engine Component
Hazard
Affected units
128,948

Is your product affected?

Check your packaging against the codes below. If any of them match, the product is part of this recall.

Model numbers (3)

  • SONATA HYBRID
  • SANTA FE
  • VELOSTER

Distribution

Distributed nationwide across the United States.

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