VehicleVerdict

2011 Hyundai Sonata transmission problems

The 2011 Hyundai Sonata has 175 transmission complaints filed with NHTSA — 4% of the year's total, and up sharply from the prior model year.

175

Transmission complaints

4%

Share of year

7

Crash-involved

1

Related recalls

Transmission complaints by year

Related recalls

14V434000TransmissionJuly 18, 2014 · 883,000 units

Defect

Hyundai Motor Company (Hyundai) is recalling certain model year 2011-2014 Sonata vehicles manufactured December 11, 2009, through May 29, 2014. In the affected vehicles, the transmission shift cable may detach from from the shift lever pin.

Consequence

If the transmission shift cable detaches, the transmission gear selection may not match the indicated gear and the vehicle may move in an unintended or unexpected direction, increasing the risk of a crash. Furthermore, when the driver parks the vehicle, despite selecting the 'PARK' position, the transmission may not be in 'PARK.' If the vehicle is not in the 'PARK' position and the parking brake is not applied, there is a risk the vehicle will roll away as the driver and other occupants exit the vehicle or anytime thereafter. A vehicle rollaway increases the risk of injury to exiting occupants and bystanders.

Remedy

Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and, as necessary, repair the connection between the shift cable and shift lever, free of charge. The recall began in September 2014. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-800-633-5151. Hyundai's number for this recall is 123.

Common questions

How many transmission complaints does the 2011 Hyundai Sonata have?

NHTSA has 175 complaints about the 2011 Hyundai Sonata transmission — 4% of all complaints filed for that model year.

Are there recalls for the 2011 Hyundai Sonata transmission?

Yes — 1 NHTSA recall campaign for this model year is tied to the transmission: 14V434000.

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.