How common are engine problems on the 2011 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid?

NHTSA shows 43 engine complaints for the 2011 Sonata Hybrid, which is 45% of the 96 total complaints filed for that model year.

Is there a recall for the 2011 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid engine?

Yes. Recall 20V746000 covers 2011-2013 Sonata Hybrid vehicles for connecting rod bearings that may wear prematurely inside the engine. Dealers inspect the engine and replace it if bearing damage is found.

At what mileage do 2011 Sonata Hybrid engine problems typically occur?

NHTSA data shows a median mileage of 102,000 miles at the time of the reported engine failure.

Did the engine problems cause fires or crashes?

Within the engine-related sample, NHTSA data for the 2011 Sonata Hybrid shows 3 fires and 1 crash reported.

2011 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid Engine Problems

NHTSA lists 43 engine complaints for the 2011 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid, 45% of all 96 complaints filed for the year. Median mileage at failure was 102,000 miles, and Hyundai issued recall 20V746000 for connecting rod bearing wear that can lead to engine failure.

Engine complaints: 43; 45% of 96
Crashes reported: 1
Fires reported: 3
Injuries reported: 0
Median mileage: 102,000 mi
Related recalls: 1

Typical engine symptoms owners report

Owners report sudden loss of power or stalling at highway speeds, sometimes with the engine seizing and needing full replacement.
Some vehicles caught fire under the hood, in one case preceded by a knocking noise and smoke while driving around 55 mph.
Owners describe the engine failing to restart after stalling, leaving the vehicle stranded on the road shoulder.
Several complaints mention warning lights (check engine, charging system, hybrid system) illuminating before power loss or stalling.
One owner reported a blown motor and persistent oil leaks along with poor fuel economy on the hybrid system.

When 2011 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid engine complaints were filed

First complaint Apr 14, 2014, latest Aug 19, 2026.

43 complaints filed with NHTSA from Apr 2014 to Aug 2026; peak May 2017 (4).

Engine recalls for the 2011 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid

NHTSA 20V746000Dec 1, 2020Engine128,948 vehicles
Engine
Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2015-2016 Veloster, 2012 Santa Fe, 2011-2013 Sonata Hybrid, and 2016 Sonata Hybrid vehicles. The connecting rod bearings inside the engine may wear prematurely, which over time can result in engine damage.
Risk: A damaged engine can increase the risk of a fire or it can cause an engine stall, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: 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 March 31, 2021. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 198.

Engine complaints by Sonata Hybrid model year

Raw complaint counts per model year; newer years have had less time to accumulate complaints.

201143 (45%)
201279 (51%)
201345 (42%)
201412 (44%)
201523 (43%)
201679 (60%)
201751 (64%)
20185 (56%)
20192 (50%)
20208 (50%)
202124 (44%)
20222 (11%)
20238 (53%)
20243 (33%)
20251 (9%)

Frequently asked questions

How common are engine problems on the 2011 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid?: NHTSA shows 43 engine complaints for the 2011 Sonata Hybrid, which is 45% of the 96 total complaints filed for that model year.
Is there a recall for the 2011 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid engine?: Yes. Recall 20V746000 covers 2011-2013 Sonata Hybrid vehicles for connecting rod bearings that may wear prematurely inside the engine. Dealers inspect the engine and replace it if bearing damage is found.
At what mileage do 2011 Sonata Hybrid engine problems typically occur?: NHTSA data shows a median mileage of 102,000 miles at the time of the reported engine failure.
Did the engine problems cause fires or crashes?: Within the engine-related sample, NHTSA data for the 2011 Sonata Hybrid shows 3 fires and 1 crash reported.