2017 Hyundai Sonata Safety Report
2017 Hyundai Sonata Safety and Reliability Report
Safety Decision Cockpit for the 2017 Hyundai Sonata
This page is the hub for deciding what to inspect next on the 2017 Hyundai Sonata. It connects recall campaigns, owner complaint patterns, service bulletins, sibling model years, component issue hubs, and the model buying guide so a shopper or owner can move from a single report into the wider safety graph.
| Signal | Value | What to inspect next |
|---|---|---|
| Recall burden | High (3) | Review campaign numbers, affected components, and dealer remedies below. |
| Owner complaints | High (739) | Scan complaint narratives for recurring symptoms, mileage, crashes, fires, injuries, and dates. |
| Crash and fire reports | 39 | Treat any crash, fire, injury, or fatality-linked pattern as a priority pre-purchase inspection item. |
| Primary component hub | Engine | Compare engine issues across vehicles. |
| Cleaner nearby model year | 2021 | Compare against the 2021 Hyundai Sonata with 109 complaints and 4 recalls. |
| Riskier nearby model year | 2015 | Check the 2015 Hyundai Sonata before buying across this generation. |
Hyundai Sonata Year-by-Year Comparison
The safest purchase decision usually comes from comparing neighboring model years, not reading a single page in isolation. The table below uses only validated Hyundai Sonata years already present in the cleaned NHTSA dataset, so each comparison links to a real vehicle safety report rather than a generated combination.
| Model Year | Complaints | Recalls | Use case |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2018 Hyundai Sonata | 350 | 1 | Compare as a potentially cleaner alternative. |
| 2016 Hyundai Sonata | 695 | 6 | Compare as a potentially cleaner alternative. |
| 2019 Hyundai Sonata | 140 | 0 | Compare as a potentially cleaner alternative. |
| 2015 Hyundai Sonata | 1100 | 9 | Inspect as a potentially higher-complaint year. |
| 2020 Hyundai Sonata | 151 | 4 | Compare as a potentially cleaner alternative. |
| 2021 Hyundai Sonata | 109 | 4 | Compare as a potentially cleaner alternative. |
2017 Hyundai Sonata Complaint Theme Map
Complaint counts become more useful when they are grouped into inspection themes. For the 2017 Hyundai Sonata, these are the component areas with the clearest NHTSA complaint signals. Use each link to jump from this single vehicle into broader component hubs and make-specific issue pages.
Engine
256 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Engine issues Hyundai onlySteering
144 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Steering issues Hyundai onlyUnknown Or Other
51 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Unknown Or Other issues Hyundai onlyStructure
22 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Structure issues Hyundai onlyLatches/Locks/Linkages
16 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Latches/Locks/Linkages issues Hyundai onlyAir Bags
15 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Air Bags issues Hyundai onlyAI Safety Analysis for the 2017 Hyundai Sonata
Reliability Score
The 2017 Hyundai Sonata receives a reliability score of 28 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates below-average reliability. Significant issues have been reported by owners and should be carefully evaluated before purchase.
NHTSA Safety Ratings for the 2017 Hyundai Sonata
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) evaluates vehicles through controlled crash tests and assigns star ratings from 1 to 5, with 5 being the safest.
Known Issues for the 2017 Hyundai Sonata
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2017 Hyundai Sonata:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine Knocking And Stalling The engine has experienced knocking, stalling, and inoperability, leading to a Hyundai recall for certain 2017 models. |
Medium | Common | 30k-60k miles |
| Steering Lock-Up The steering wheel has locked up while driving, causing a hard stop. This issue has occurred twice. |
Medium | Common | 30k-60k miles |
| Exterior Lighting Failure The turn signal has malfunctioned, requiring a recall by Hyundai Motor America. |
Low | Common | 30k-60k miles |
| Air Bag Malfunction The frontal air bag in the driver's side has an inflator module issue, necessitating a recall. |
Medium | Common | 30k-60k miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2017 Hyundai Sonata:
Engine issues, including knocking, stalling, and inoperability, are common.
Steering lock-up issues have been reported.
Turn signal failures have been reported.
Air bag malfunctions have been reported.
Recall Details for the 2017 Hyundai Sonata
The following 3 recalls have been issued for the 2017 Hyundai Sonata by NHTSA:
Summary: Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2015-2017 Sonata, 2016-2017 Sonata Hybrid, and Sonata Plug-In Hybrid vehicles. The Smart Junction Box (SJB) software logic may not properly interpret the signals received from the multifunction switch, which could cause the turn signal to activate in the opposite direction of what the driver intended.
Consequence: A turn signal that activates in the opposite direction of what was intended by the driver increases the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will update the SJB software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed November 19, 2021. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 210.
Summary: 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."
Consequence: A person inside the trunk compartment may become trapped, increasing their risk of injury.
Remedy: 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.
Summary: Hyundai Motor Company (Hyundai) is recalling certain model year 2017 Hyundai Elantra vehicles manufactured April 15, 2016, to September 13, 2016, and Sonata vehicles manufactured May 27, 2016 to September 16, 2016. In these vehicles, the end seal for the driver's frontal air bag inflator may not have been properly installed, possibly resulting in reduced inflation of the frontal air bag in the event of a crash.
Consequence: In the event of a crash, an air bag that does not inflate fully increases the risk of injury.
Remedy: Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will replace the driver's frontal air bag module, free of charge. The recall began February 13, 2017. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 156.
NHTSA Complaint Summaries for the 2017 Hyundai Sonata
Below are complaint narratives filed by owners of the 2017 Hyundai Sonata with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. 3 complaints involved crashes. 1 involved fires. 1 reported injuries or fatalities.
Care recently became inoperable. The engine was knocking, then stalling and then inoperable. Checked Hyundai website to find Engine Recall describing exactly what my Hyundai was/is experiencing. I brought vehicle to Clay Cooley dealership (39444 Lyndon B Johnson Fwy, 75232) and explained that I see the recall on the Hyundai website describing what my vehicle is experiencing. After their servi...
The contact owns a 2017 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated that while his wife was driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle experienced engine failure. The vehicle made a knocking sound prior to the failure. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the residence and eventually towed to the dealer, but was not diagnosed or repaired. The dealer acknowledged the engine failure...
The contact owns a 2017 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated that the vehicle had experienced excessive oil consumption, caused by engine rod bearing failure. The engine rod bearing failure caused excessive oil consumption and premature spark plug fouling, requiring the frequent replacement of the spark plugs. The dealer was notified of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was...
Sun roof flew off while driving, the metal framing was twisted and dent. Sun Roof was closed at the time. Pictures were sent to insurance company but no one has looked at it yet. No warning. Sun roof was working properly.
I have a 2017 hyundai sonata sport,it started using a lot of oil,one day I was driving and it just lost speed and the car just started jerking. I checked the spark plugs and oil had gotten on them. I changed the spark plugs,drove it for about 2 weeks and it did it again. I was constantly having to put oil it and changing the spark plugs every 2 weeks. The check engine light would come on every tim...
Here is your updated review with that included: ⸻ I am very disappointed with Hyundai Motor America and the service I received at Hyundai of Renton. I own a 2017 Hyundai Sonata and received a letter about a required software update and ignition cylinder protector due to known theft issues. I went to the Renton dealer for the recall service. They performed the software update and were supposed t...
While driving around 45 mph, the steering wheel locked up and car came to a hard stop. Luckily cars swerved to avoid me. This was the second time it happened. The first time I was in a parking garage and the steering wheel locked up. After restarting the vehicle, the steering wheel worked again. The dash showed no fault codes or engine light. I found out there is a service bulletin and took it in ...
My 2017 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid has a permanent and recurring DTC P1326 (Knock signal range/performance) from the Knock Sensor Detection System (KSDS), indicating potential connecting rod bearing wear in the Nu 2.0L engine. The vehicle enters limp mode (reduced power, limited acceleration/speed) on the highway under load, with hard engine vibration, tinkling/knocking noise from under hood, and signi...
This car is becoming more of a headache than it’s worth. Turned the car on, My car started shaking and my check engine light came on. then I got this message “A possible condition with your engine control system has been detected on a 2017 Hyundai Sonata”
Car just sputtered and then the engine stopped working in cyclinder 2
My car stayed with up to date oil changes and everything. One day I noticed it was leaking oil and had to stay on top of adding oil. When took to a mechanic they said my motor was blown and needed a new one. I took very good care of this car and it’s crazy that I need a new motor after babying the car.
Was just driving and lost steering, basically very hard to turn the wheel. Traction control light and a red steering wheel light came on.
My 2017 Hyundai Sonata is exhibiting a severe metallic knocking noise and metal debris in the engine oil—primary indicators of the Theta II engine defect (NHTSA Campaign 17V578). These symptoms indicate imminent engine failure, posing a significant stall and crash risk. On or around 8/20/25, I took the vehicle to Earnhardt Hyundai-San Tan. I informed the technician of the oil burning and metal sh...
The 2017 Hyundai Sonata has had an ongoing engine malfunction defect that is causing engine knocking, stalling, and smell and rapid depletion of oil. The continuous issues are concerning especially when the car is not driven on a regular basis as it is utilized as a second vehicle. This has been a noticeable issue for quite sometime now. I have taken the car to the Hyundai dealership on multiple ...
My vehicle has a documented excessive oil‑consumption defect. After a 1,000‑mile oil‑consumption test performed by a Hyundai dealership, the engine was found to have consumed 2.8 quarts of oil, which is far above normal and poses a safety risk. The dealer referenced TSB 23‑EM‑008H and recommended a chamber cleaning but could not guarantee it would resolve the issue. Hyundai Motor America declined ...
Please see the attached paperwork and I have more if needed. I am not receiving any help from the local Hyundai dealership in which I purchased the car, and I have reached out to the main Headquarter. This is the 2nd Hyundai I purchased, and I was not made aware of the oil consumption issue.
I was involved in a severe motor vehicle collision in a 2017 Hyundai Sonata. The airbags failed to deploy during the crash. I sustained serious injuries and was transported from the scene by EMS. This vehicle has known safety recalls, and I believe the airbag non-deployment may indicate a safety defect.
Manufacturer has refused engine replacement under federal KSDS recall settlement without providing causation proof. Owner has maintenance records. Request NHTSA compliance review.
Manufacturer is refusing recall engine replacement alleging neglect without proof of causation. Vehicle has documented maintenance. Denial appears improper under recall compliance law.
Airbags did not deploy no indicator light came on before nor after I was struck from my driver side front area and yes it is available for inspection upon request. My safety along with my sisters safety was put at risk due to the negligence and cheapness of the dealership I purchased the car from also from there misleading information and improper inspection before selling me the car Car has not...
Showing 20 of 739 complaints. Additional complaints are available via the NHTSA database.
NHTSA Defect Investigations for the 2017 Hyundai Sonata
NHTSA defect investigations are higher-signal than ordinary complaints because they indicate the agency opened a formal review of a potential safety defect. Some investigations later connect to recall campaigns; others close without a recall after review.
Component: Air Bags:Frontal:Driver Side:Inflator Module
Opened 2025-10-21
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) has become aware of eight vehicle crashes in which a rupture of a Jilin Province Detiannuo Automobile Safety System Co., Ltd. (DTN) air bag inflator occurred during the deployment of the driver side air bag. All eight drivers in these crashes sustained serious or fatal injuries that appear linked to the ruptures. Six of those drivers sustained fatal injuries and two sustained severe injuries. In all eight incidents, the subject inflators had been install...
Component: Air Bags: Air Bag/Restraint Control Module
Opened 2019-04-19 · Closed 2024-09-19
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened this investigation to determine if the failure of airbags to deploy during severe crashes, in certain vehicles, was the result of a safety related defect. During the investigation a complex failure was studied that can result in non-deployment of subject vehicle air bags and other restraint system devices in severe crash events. The subject vehicles may be equipped with an airbag control unit (ACU) for the supplemental restraint system (SRS) Elec...
Component: Engine
Opened 2022-09-12 · Closed 2023-12-12
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) received a letter dated July 13, 2022, petitioning the Agency to initiate a safety defect investigation into loss of motive power allegations attributed to oil drain pan assembly failures on certain Hyundai Motor America, Inc. and Kia America, Inc. vehicles spanning Model Years (MY) 2005-2021. The Petitioners cited examples of complaints indicating that the subject vehicles were experiencing rapid loss of engine oil due to oil drain plug...
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2017 Hyundai Sonata
Has the 2017 HYUNDAI SONATA been recalled?
Yes, the 2017 HYUNDAI SONATA has 3 recalls on record with NHTSA. Each recall addresses a specific safety defect identified by the manufacturer or NHTSA.
How many complaints does the 2017 HYUNDAI SONATA have?
The 2017 HYUNDAI SONATA has 739 complaints filed with NHTSA. Of these, 28 involved crashes. 12 injuries and 1 deaths have been reported.
What is the safety rating for the 2017 HYUNDAI SONATA?
The 2017 HYUNDAI SONATA received an overall NHTSA safety rating of excellent (5/5). Frontal crash: 5/5. Side crash: 5/5. Rollover: 4/5.
What are the most common problems with the 2017 HYUNDAI SONATA?
The most commonly reported problems with the 2017 HYUNDAI SONATA involve engine (256 complaints), steering (144 complaints), unknown or other (51 complaints). Other affected components include structure, latches/locks/linkages, air bags.
How many crash reports does the 2017 HYUNDAI SONATA have?
There are 28 crash reports associated with the 2017 HYUNDAI SONATA out of 739 total complaints (3.8% of complaints involved crashes).
How many fire reports does the 2017 HYUNDAI SONATA have?
There are 11 fire reports for the 2017 HYUNDAI SONATA out of 739 total complaints. Fire reports are among the most serious safety concerns tracked by NHTSA.
Are there any deaths reported for the 2017 HYUNDAI SONATA?
Yes, 1 death has been reported in NHTSA complaints for the 2017 HYUNDAI SONATA. These are self-reported by complainants and do not imply the vehicle caused the death.
How many injuries are reported for the 2017 HYUNDAI SONATA?
12 injuries have been reported in NHTSA complaints for the 2017 HYUNDAI SONATA. These are self-reported by vehicle owners as part of their safety complaints.
Should I buy a 2017 HYUNDAI SONATA?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2017 HYUNDAI SONATA is extreme caution advised. It has 739 complaints, 3 recalls, and a excellent (5/5) safety rating. Note: 1 death(s) have been reported. Always have a pre-purchase inspection done by a qualified mechanic.
What components fail most on the 2017 HYUNDAI SONATA?
The components with the most failures on the 2017 HYUNDAI SONATA are: 1. ENGINE (256 complaints), 2. STEERING (144 complaints), 3. UNKNOWN OR OTHER (51 complaints), 4. STRUCTURE (22 complaints), 5. LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES (16 complaints). ENGINE is the single most-reported problem area with 256 complaints.
What should I know before buying a 2017 HYUNDAI SONATA?
Be cautious of engine knocking, steering issues, and air bag malfunctions. Check for recalls and service your vehicle regularly. The 2017 HYUNDAI SONATA has 739 NHTSA complaints and 3 recalls on record. NHTSA rates it excellent (5/5).
How reliable is the 2017 HYUNDAI SONATA?
The 2017 HYUNDAI SONATA receives a reliability score of 28/100, indicating below-average reliability. This is based on 739 owner complaints, 3 recalls, and 39 crash/fire reports in the NHTSA database. Key known issues include Engine Knocking and Stalling and Steering Lock-Up.
What are the known issues with the 2017 HYUNDAI SONATA?
Known issues with the 2017 HYUNDAI SONATA include: Engine Knocking and Stalling, Steering Lock-Up, Exterior Lighting Failure, Air Bag Malfunction. These are based on patterns found across 739 NHTSA complaints. 3 of these patterns resulted in formal recalls.
What are the common issues with the 2017 Hyundai Sonata?
Common issues include engine knocking, steering lock-up, exterior lighting failures, and air bag malfunctions.
Is the 2017 Hyundai Sonata safe to drive?
While generally safe, the vehicle has been recalled for engine and air bag issues. Check for recalls and service your vehicle regularly.
What should I do if I experience engine problems?
Contact Hyundai for a recall check and service your vehicle as soon as possible.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: Be cautious of engine knocking, steering issues, and air bag malfunctions. Check for recalls and service your vehicle regularly.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2017 Hyundai Sonata
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2017 Hyundai Sonata. The data includes 739 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 3 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 28 reported crashes, 11 fire incidents, 12 reported injuries, and 1 fatalities associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2017 Hyundai Sonata an overall safety rating of 5 out of 5 stars, with a frontal crash rating of 5 stars, a side crash rating of 5 stars, and a rollover rating of 4 stars. These ratings are determined through controlled crash testing conducted by the NHTSA.
All data presented in this report is sourced from public NHTSA databases. Our AI analysis identifies patterns across complaint narratives, correlates them with recall history, and produces the safety assessment above. This analysis is updated as new complaints and recalls are filed with the NHTSA.
Consumers are encouraged to report vehicle safety problems to the NHTSA at nhtsa.gov. If your vehicle is subject to a recall, contact your dealer to schedule the free repair.
Disclaimer: This analysis is AI-generated from NHTSA public data and does not constitute professional automotive or safety advice. Always verify recall status at NHTSA.gov and consult a qualified mechanic.
Analysis last updated: 2026-05-16