2022 Hyundai Sonata Safety Report

The 2022 Hyundai Sonata presents a mixed safety picture. While it boasts excellent crash test performance with a 5-star overall NHTSA safety rating, including 5 stars for side and rollover, and 4 stars for frontal impact, there are notable concerns regarding component reliability and recall history. With 79 total complaints, including 7 crashes and 5 injuries, the vehicle has experienced issues that, in some cases, have led to serious incidents. A significant portion of complaints, specifically 10 for POWER TRAIN and 9 for FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM, point to potential systemic problems rather than isolated incidents. The recall history for the 2022 Sonata is particularly concerning, with three recalls directly addressing fire and crash risks. Two recalls (NHTSA Campaign Numbers 25V796000 and 21V796000) relate to the fuel system, specifically a damaged check valve leading to potential fuel tank expansion and contact with hot exhaust components, increasing fire risk, and fuel leaks at high-pressure pipe connections, also increasing fire risk. A third recall (NHTSA Campaign Number 21V796000) addresses a power train issue where a 'fail-safe' limited-mobility drive mode may lead to a loss of drive power, increasing the risk of a crash. These recalls align with the high number of complaints related to fuel and power train components. Common complaint patterns include sudden unintended acceleration, often linked to the automatic braking system or a 'fail-safe' mode, and significant issues with the fuel system, including leaks, stalling, and engine misfires, some of which have been attributed to faulty fuel injectors. Several complaints describe the vehicle stalling or losing power while driving, directly correlating with the power train recall. The high number of complaints (79) for a relatively new model year, combined with the nature of the recalls and reported incidents, suggests that while the vehicle performs well in controlled crash tests, its operational reliability and potential for unexpected failures are areas of concern. The reported 'fuel tank exploded' incident, despite a recall repair, highlights the severity of some of these issues.

Our recommendation: Given the excellent crash test ratings but concerning recall history and complaint patterns, prospective buyers should ensure all recalls are addressed and consider an extended warranty, especially for fuel and power train components.