2018 Hyundai Sonata recalls, problems & safety ratings
NHTSA lists 1 recall for the 2018 Hyundai Sonata and 374 owner complaints. The most-reported problem areas are engine (212), electrical system (60), unknown or other (58). It earned a 5-star overall NHTSA safety rating. EPA-rated fuel economy is 28–41 mpg combined, depending on engine.
The 2018 ranks #8 of 14 Sonata model years for fewest complaints (2012–2025), with fewer complaints than the average year (569). It has 1 recall vs. an average of 4.1 per model year.
Recalls 1
Every recall NHTSA lists for the 2018 Hyundai Sonata. Not every recall applies to every vehicle, so check your VIN. Recall repairs are free at a franchised dealer.
Latches/locks/linkages · trunk lid · latch
Problem: Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2017-2018 Sonata, 2016-2018 Sonata Hybrid, 2018-2020 Accent, and 2016-2017 Azera vehicles. The trunk latch may become damaged, preventing the opening of the trunk from the inside. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 401, "Internal Trunk Release."
Risk: A person inside the trunk compartment may become trapped, increasing their risk of injury.
Fix: Dealers will replace the trunk latch base, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 4, 2021. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 208.
Common problems
From complaints owners filed with NHTSA. Complaints aren't verified, but patterns across hundreds of owners point to known weak spots.
Most-reported problem areas
By the numbers
Recent owner reports
What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? The paint is peeling off the car, when I went to the dealership they said this is a known problem for 2015-2018, but they can't fix it there is no recall. It is causing rust. The valve cover gasket leaks oil and caused spark plugs to blow twice. How was your safety or the safety…
Hyundai dealership confirms I am in need of a new engine due to large oil consumption which is a known issue on 2018 Hyundai Sonata engines. Hyundai will not approve repairs because I am the second owner and vehicle is out of the 5 year warranty period. I only have 52K miles on my vehicle.
One engine valve has lost pressure and is not repairable
Safety ratings
2018 Hyundai Sonata 4 DR FWD
Fuel economy
EPA ratings for common configurations of the 2018 Hyundai Sonata.
Sonata
Auto (AM7) · 4 cyl · 1.6 L · Turbo
Regular
Sonata
Auto (S6) · 4 cyl · 2.4 L
Regular
Sonata Hybrid
Auto (AM6) · 4 cyl · 2.0 L
Regular
Other model years
Questions
How many recalls does the 2018 Hyundai Sonata have?
NHTSA lists 1 recall for the 2018 Hyundai Sonata, most recently for latches/locks/linkages · trunk lid · latch (08/06/2021). Recall repairs are free at a franchised dealer. Enter your VIN to check whether a recall applies to your vehicle.
What are the most common problems with the 2018 Hyundai Sonata?
Based on 374 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the most-reported areas are engine (212), electrical system (60), unknown or other (58).
Is the 2018 Hyundai Sonata safe?
The 2018 Hyundai Sonata earned a 5-star overall rating in NHTSA's 5-star safety ratings.
Is the 2018 a good year for the Hyundai Sonata?
The 2018 ranks #8 of 14 Sonata model years for fewest complaints (2012–2025), with fewer complaints than the average year (569). It has 1 recall vs. an average of 4.1 per model year.
What gas mileage does the 2018 Hyundai Sonata get?
EPA ratings for the 2018 Hyundai Sonata range from 28 to 41 mpg combined, depending on engine and drivetrain.
Own a 2018 Hyundai Sonata in South Carolina?
Our mobile mechanics diagnose and fix the problems above at your home, office or fleet lot in Lexington, Columbia and the Midlands, with dealer-grade scan tools.
Related vehicles
Sources: NHTSA recalls, complaints and 5-Star Safety Ratings APIs; EPA fueleconomy.gov. Data retrieved October 21, 2026. NHTSA model names used: SONATA, Sonata.