2021 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid problems
Verdict · NHTSA data
One of the years to avoid
With 69 complaints filed to NHTSA — about 2.0 times the median Sonata Hybrid year — the 2021 model ranks #7 of 16 Sonata Hybrid years for complaint volume. It lands on the years-to-avoid list.
Electrical System leads the complaint categories with 25 reports (36% of the total). In government crash testing it earned 5 of 5 NCAP stars overall.
69
NHTSA complaints
0
Recalls
1
Investigations
3
Crash-involved
0
Fires reported
6
Injuries
0
Deaths
5
NCAP overall · of 5 stars
How does 2021 compare to other Sonata Hybrid years?
What are the most common 2021 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid problems?
| Component | Complaints | Share | vs prior year |
|---|---|---|---|
| Electrical System | 25 | 36% | ▲ up |
| Engine | 23 | 33% | ▲ up |
| Other | 7 | 10% | ▲ up |
| Driver Assistance | 5 | 7% | ▲ up |
| Fuel System | 3 | 4% | ▲ up |
| Transmission | 3 | 4% | ▲ up |
| Body & Structure | 1 | 1% | — flat |
| Tires & Wheels | 1 | 1% | — flat |
| Visibility & Wipers | 1 | 1% | — flat |
Consumer complaints filed with NHTSA
Representative excerpts, cleaned of personal information. These are consumer statements, not verified defects.
“The Battery dies randomly (like I have to open the car with they physical key to access the car dead) there isn't a pattern. I have taken it to the dealership and they can't diagnose it because they cant replicate the issue and say nothing is wrong. Sometimes the car dies while I'm INSIDE and just…”
“Antifreeze is coming out of the exhaust. Heater is only blowing cold air. Repair shop said it is a common problem with the Hyundai hybrids. Was told I had to take it back to the dealership. The y repair shop said this is very common and is wondering why a recall has not been issued by the NTHSB.…”
“The Battery dies randomly (like I have to open the car with they physical key to access the car dead) there isn't a pattern. I have taken it to the dealership and they can't diagnose it because they cant replicate the issue and say nothing is wrong. Sometimes the car dies while I'm INSIDE and just…”
“The forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking and adaptive cruise control failed as the first 2 activated when there were no oncoming collisions in front of me and the nearest cars around me were 1/4 of a mile away. The cruise control failed as it turned back on after the vehicle…”
“When I arrived in the parking lot and selected the R (reverse), the vehicle stayed in the D (Drive) although that it was moving backwards and was able to park it. The shift selector was stuck in DRIVE (Drive) leaving the vehicle on but not operational. After several attempts to allow the vehicle to…”
2021 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid — common questions
Is the 2021 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid reliable?
NHTSA data argues against it: 69 complaints put the 2021 model at #7 of 16 Sonata Hybrid years. It is one of the Sonata Hybrid years to avoid.
What are the most common 2021 Sonata Hybrid problems?
According to NHTSA complaint data, the leading problem areas are electrical system (25 complaints), engine (23 complaints), other (7 complaints).
Does the 2021 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid have recalls?
No. NHTSA lists no recall campaigns for the 2021 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid.
Is the 2021 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid under NHTSA investigation?
NHTSA opened one investigation into this model year; all are now closed.
Which Hyundai Sonata Hybrid years should you avoid?
Based on complaint rates and open investigations, the Sonata Hybrid years to avoid are 2012, 2016, 2013, 2011, 2017, 2015, 2021, 2014. The cleanest record among Sonata Hybrid years belongs to 2026.
How safe is the 2021 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid?
In NHTSA's NCAP crash testing, the 2021 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid earned an overall rating of 5 out of 5 stars.
Related
Based on NHTSA ODI data through June 2026. Complaints are consumer-reported and unverified. Updated July 5, 2026.
Compiled by Sharon Ben-Moshe, Founder.