How common are engine problems in the 2013 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid?

NHTSA lists 45 engine-related complaints for the 2013 Sonata Hybrid, which makes up 42% of the 108 total complaints filed for that model year.

Is there a recall for the 2013 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid engine?

Yes. Recall 20V746000 covers the 2011-2013 and 2016 Sonata Hybrid, among other models, for connecting rod bearings that may wear prematurely inside the engine. Hyundai dealers inspect the engine and replace it if bearing damage is found.

At what mileage do engine problems typically show up?

The median mileage at failure for engine complaints on the 2013 Sonata Hybrid is 90,000 miles.

Have engine problems on the 2013 Sonata Hybrid led to fires or crashes?

NHTSA data for this model year lists 3 fires and 4 crashes across all complaint categories, with some fire reports tied to engine-area failures.

2013 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid Engine Problems

NHTSA lists 45 engine complaints for the 2013 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid, 42% of all 108 complaints that year, with a median failure mileage of 90,000. A related recall (20V746000) covers worn connecting rod bearings that can lead to engine failure or fire.

Engine complaints: 45; 42% of 108
Crashes reported: 4
Fires reported: 3
Injuries reported: 3
Median mileage: 90,000 mi
Related recalls: 1

Typical engine symptoms owners report

Owners report a knocking sound from the engine at low speeds, sometimes with no cause found by the dealer.
Some owners report loss of motive power while driving at highway speed, with 'Do Not Drive' or blinking warning lights on the instrument panel.
Several complaints describe engine fires, including one where smoke entered the cabin after a recall notice was already received but the repair part was unavailable.
Owners describe the hybrid starter generator (HSG) belt breaking, causing the car to die while driving and stall on the road.
Some owners report the vehicle surging or lurching forward unexpectedly when stopping or decelerating.

When 2013 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid engine complaints were filed

First complaint Oct 29, 2013, latest Aug 11, 2026.

45 complaints filed with NHTSA from Oct 2013 to Aug 2026; peak Mar 2021 (3).

Engine recalls for the 2013 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 in the 2013 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid?: NHTSA lists 45 engine-related complaints for the 2013 Sonata Hybrid, which makes up 42% of the 108 total complaints filed for that model year.
Is there a recall for the 2013 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid engine?: Yes. Recall 20V746000 covers the 2011-2013 and 2016 Sonata Hybrid, among other models, for connecting rod bearings that may wear prematurely inside the engine. Hyundai dealers inspect the engine and replace it if bearing damage is found.
At what mileage do engine problems typically show up?: The median mileage at failure for engine complaints on the 2013 Sonata Hybrid is 90,000 miles.
Have engine problems on the 2013 Sonata Hybrid led to fires or crashes?: NHTSA data for this model year lists 3 fires and 4 crashes across all complaint categories, with some fire reports tied to engine-area failures.