2021 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid
This year had at least 30% fewer complaints than this model's typical year.
This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.
COMPLAINTS PER YEAR
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 2011 | 95 |
| 2012 | 154 |
| 2013 | 107 |
| 2014 | 27 |
| 2015 | 51 |
| 2016 | 132 |
| 2017 | 79 |
| 2018 | 9 |
| 2019 | 4 |
| 2020 | 16 |
| 2021 | 53 |
| 2022 | 19 |
| 2023 | 15 |
| 2024 | 9 |
| 2025 | 11 |
| 2026 | 2 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
Percentages can add to more than 100% -- a complaint can name more than one system.
49% of complaints: electrical system — 26 distinct reports on file, most commonly citing 12v/24v/48v battery.
Show complaint excerpts
The vehicle experiences sudden, complete electrical power loss while driving at speed on highways and city streets or on the parking.
NHTSA ODI report, 20260805
Also filed under ENGINE
My 2021 Sonata Hybrid Limited has been in the shop for over 3 months. At least 4 times while driving on city streets, I'd receive an error stating problem with hybrid system please turn off vehicle.
NHTSA ODI report, 20231014
40% of complaints: engine — 21 distinct reports on file.
Show complaint excerpts
Discovered that I had no engine heat to use in the cabin with cooler outside temps. Checked coolant tank. Was nearly bone dry. 2021 hybrid is under warranty with only 35K miles on it and regular scheduled maintenance.
NHTSA ODI report, 20231003
9% of complaints: forward collision avoidance — 5 distinct reports on file, most commonly citing automatic emergency braking and warnings.
CRASH INJURYShow complaint excerpts
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.
NHTSA ODI report, 20230222
6% of complaints: power train — 3 distinct reports on file.
6% of complaints: fuel/propulsion system — 3 distinct reports on file.
Show complaint excerpts
Battery keeps dying randomly. Approximately once every other week and I drive 12k miles a year⦠dealership reassures me itâs find. Found numerous reports of other Sonota Hybrid users experiencing a similar issue.
NHTSA ODI report, 20231012
SAFETY TIMELINE
No recalls on file for this model year.
Pedestrian alert sounds
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
2021 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for electrical system issues (26 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for engine issues (21 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for forward collision avoidance issues (5 reports on file for this year).
OTHER YEARS OF THIS MODEL
BEST YEARS
WORST YEARS
FAQ
Is the 2021 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid reliable?
Based on NHTSA complaint volume compared to this model's typical year, the 2021 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid is rated "better than typical".
What are the most common problems with the 2021 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid?
The most-reported component is electrical system, accounting for 49% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 2021 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid have?
No recalls are on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-09-15 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.