Known issues
High recall count or documented complaint patterns. Inspect carefully.
Seventh-gen — 2.4L GDI is reliable; Sport 2.0T adds performance at maintenance cost.
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If the sunroof detaches from the vehicle it could become a road hazard, increasing the risk of a crash.
If the parking brake indicator is not illuminated when the parking brake is applied, the driver may operate the vehicle with the parking brake partially engaged, increasing the risk of a crash.
An air bag that does not inflate increases the risk of injury.
If the driver is alerted there is a brake system malfunction, but not specifically with the ABS system, the driver may operate the vehicle unaware that the vehicle's brakes may lock up during hard braking, increasing the risk of a crash.
If the front passenger seat belt cannot be latched, an occupant sitting in the front passenger seat has an increased risk of injury in the event of a crash.
If a brake caliper fractures, brake effectiveness would be reduced, lengthening to distance required to stop the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
The reduction of power steering assist can increase the steering effort needed, increasing the risk of a crash.
If the left axle shaft separates from the transaxle, the vehicle may stop moving, increasing the risk of a crash. Additionally, a separated axle shaft may allow the vehicle to 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.
Known issues contribute -3.00 pts to the score (capped at −3.0 total).
Theta II 2.0T and 2.4L GDI engine seizure — manufacturing defect allows metal debris to contaminate oil and destroy rod bearings. 5,000+ NHTSA complaints, multiple recalls, and class-action settlements. Hyundai extended warranty to 15yr/150k miles. Verify VIN eligibility.
Theta II 2.4L GDI and 2.0T engine seizure — manufacturing debris in oil passages destroys rod bearings without warning. 2015–2019 model years are among the most complained-about in NHTSA history for this defect with 3,000+ complaints. Subject to multiple recalls and a Hyundai extended warranty to 15yr/150k miles. Verify VIN eligibility for recall and warranty coverage before purchase — complete engine replacement is otherwise $5,000–$9,000.
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