1 recall and 375 owner complaints on file with NHTSA for the 2018 Hyundai Sonata.
1
recalls
375
owner complaints
18
complaints mentioning a crash
13
mentioning a fire
Recalls apply to specific production ranges. To see whether a particular car still has an open recall, enter its VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. Repairs for safety recalls are free at authorised dealers.
2018 Hyundai Sonata recalls
Latches/locks/linkages: trunk lid, latch
NHTSA campaign 21V619000 · reported August 6, 2021 · Hyundai Motor America · 348,158 vehicles potentially affected
The problem
Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2017-2018 Sonata, 2016-2018 Sonata Hybrid, 2018-2020 Accent, and 2016-2017 Azera vehicles. The trunk latch may become damaged, preventing the opening of the trunk from the inside. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 401, "Internal Trunk Release."
The risk
A person inside the trunk compartment may become trapped, increasing their risk of injury.
The fix
Dealers will replace the trunk latch base, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 4, 2021. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 208.
Most reported problems
Areas named in owner complaints to NHTSA. One complaint can name several areas.
Engine212
Electrical system60
Unknown or other58
Power train40
Fuel/propulsion system32
Exterior lighting22
Vehicle speed control19
Structure17
Engine and engine cooling14
Service brakes14
What owners report
Recent complaints filed with NHTSA, shortened. These are unverified accounts from owners, not findings.
Oct 22, 2026 · Fuel/propulsion system
The vehicle experiences a severe delayed start/extended crank condition before finally starting. This is caused by a loss of fuel pressure prime due to the defective fuel filter housing leaking internally, creating an unpredictable and unsafe vehicle operation hazard. The dealership is denying coverage under the…
Oct 5, 2026 · Engine
What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? The paint is peeling off the car, when I went to the dealership they said this is a known problem for 2015-2018, but they can't fix it there is no recall. It is causing rust. The valve cover gasket leaks oil and caused…
Sep 21, 2026 · Engine
Hyundai dealership confirms I am in need of a new engine due to large oil consumption which is a known issue on 2018 Hyundai Sonata engines. Hyundai will not approve repairs because I am the second owner and vehicle is out of the 5 year warranty period. I only have 52K miles on my vehicle.
Sep 11, 2026 · Engine
One engine valve has lost pressure and is not repairable
Sep 8, 2026 · Suspension
Vehicle has been making a clunking noise (front passenger area). Brought to independent service center where they determined that the strut tower is failing. Current mileage 66000. Appt set for Checkered Flag Hyundai to evaluate on 9/11/2026.
Yes. NHTSA lists 1 recall for the 2018 Hyundai Sonata, the most recent reported on August 6, 2021 (Latches/locks/linkages: trunk lid, latch). Check a specific car by its VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
What are the most common problems with the 2018 Hyundai Sonata?
Owners have filed 375 complaints with NHTSA. The most frequently reported area is engine (212 complaints), followed by electrical system (60).
How many 2018 Hyundai Sonata complaints mention a crash or fire?
18 of 375 complaints report a crash and 13 a fire; 20 injuries were reported in total. Complaints are unverified reports from owners.
Source: NHTSA recall and complaint data, updated October 27, 2026. Latest complaint received October 22, 2026.