2020 HYUNDAI Sonata

Recalls, Specs & Safety Report

Expert Verdict
ℹ️Average Safety Profile

This 2020 model shows average reliability, primarily driven by 4 recalls affecting the electrical system system.

Key Factor:electrical system recalls

📋Why This Matters

Understanding recall history helps predict future ownership costs. Each unaddressed issue represents potential repair expenses.

Insurance companies review vehicle reliability data when setting premiums. Models with elevated recall rates often see adjusted pricing.

Focus Area:general reliability
📊

Expert Analysis

The 2020 Sonata analysis highlights key safety metrics.

Safety & Reliability Score

58/100

Score Breakdown

Recall Impact-32
Complaint Impact-5
Investigation Impact-5

Technical Specifications

Key specifications for the 2020 HYUNDAI Sonata

Model Year2020
MakeHYUNDAI
ModelSonata
Fuel TypeGasoline
Body ClassPassenger Vehicle

Safety History Timeline

Scroll for more →
Jan20
NEWProduction
Jan20
RECALLRecall Issued
Jan20
RECALLRecall Issued
Jan20
RECALLRecall Issued
Sep20
RECALLRecall Issued
Nov21
ISSUEFirst Report
Apr23
INVInvestigation Opened

Consumer Complaint Analysis

⚠️

Most Reported Issue

37 complaints (37% of total)
➡️

Complaint Trend

Stable
No trend data

Safety Incidents

No critical incidents

Complaint Severity Distribution

Breakdown of 100 consumer complaints by severity level.

🟠High
27(27%)
🟡Medium
17(17%)
🟢Low
56(56%)

Mileage Failure Analysis

⚙️Engineering Insight

Based on consumer reports, issues for this vehicle tend to peak around the 0-20k mileage range. The average reported failure mileage is 41,177 miles.

📊 Mileage data extracted from 22 of 100 complaints (22% coverage)
0-20k
7 reports (32%)
20k-40k
4 reports (18%)
40k-60k
6 reports (27%)
60k-80k
3 reports (14%)
80k-100k
0 reports (0%)
100k+
2 reports (9%)
* Analysis based on mileage data extracted from consumer complaint descriptions. Actual failure rates may vary.

🛠️ DIY Diagnosis Center

Experiencing an issue? Select a symptom to find official manufacturer solutions (TSBs).

Primary Risk Areas

ELECTRICAL SYSTEMEQUIPMENTLATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGESFUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

Official Safety Recalls (4)

Campaign: 20V213000

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE

Summary

Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2020 Nexo and Sonata vehicles. The Remote Smart Parking Assist (RSPA) software may fail to prevent vehicle movement upon detection of an RSPA system malfunction.

Consequence

Unintended vehicle movement increases the risk of a crash.

Remedy

Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will reprogram the RSPA software, free of charge. The recall began June 3, 2020. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 191.

Additional Notes

Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.

Manufacturer: Hyundai Motor America

Campaign: 20V122000

EQUIPMENT:OTHER:LABELS

Summary

Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2020 Sonata vehicles produced between October 22, 2019 and February 13, 2020. The tire pressure label inside the driver's door and the owner's manual state an incorrect tire size. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 110, "Tire Selection and Rims."

Consequence

The incorrect tire information may mislead the vehicle owner to install the wrong tire size, potentially affecting vehicle handling, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy

Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will install new label stickers over the tire pressure label and in the owner's manual, free of charge. The recall began April 22, 2020. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 190.

Additional Notes

Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.

Manufacturer: Hyundai Motor America

Campaign: 22V196000

LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:TRUNK LID:LATCH

Summary

Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2020 Sonata and Sonata Hybrid, and 2019 Genesis G70 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 inspect the trunk latch and replace the trunk latch base, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed May 26, 2022. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 221/010G.

Additional Notes

Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.nhtsa.gov.

Manufacturer: Hyundai Motor America

Campaign: 25V796000

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

Summary

Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2020-2023 Sonata vehicles. A damaged check valve can allow air to enter the fuel tank, causing it to expand and contact hot exhaust components, melting the tank.

Consequence

A melted fuel tank can leak, increasing the risk of a fire.

Remedy

Dealers will inspect and replace the check valve. The fuel tank assembly will be inspected for damage and replaced if necessary. Additionally, dealers will inspect and update the engine control unit software. All repairs will be performed as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed January 16, 2026. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 286. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on November 19, 2025.

Manufacturer: Hyundai Motor America

NHTSA Investigations

1 investigation

Official NHTSA safety investigations for 2020 Sonata.

INV-2020-1000🟢 Closed

NHTSA opened investigation after receiving consumer complaints regarding Sonata performance issues.

Opened: Affected Units: 5,121

Consumer Complaints

100 total complaints

Consumer-reported issues submitted to NHTSA for 2020 Sonata.

Common Reported SymptomsAI Analysis

Warning37%
Check Engine Light22%
Explode12%
Acceleration Issues11%
Noise11%
Leak9%
Smell9%
Fire8%
Burn7%
Display6%
Body/Interior🔶 Medium
STRUCTURE

I own a 2020 Hyundai Sonata with factory-applied paint. The vehicle developed paint peeling/clear-coat failure on the driver-side rear quarter panel without any prior damage, accident, or repainting. The paint began separating from the body, exposing the underlying surface. I brought the vehicle to an authorized Hyundai dealer. The dealer acknowledged a paint adhesion failure and submitted the issue to Hyundai. Hyundai declined to fully cover the repair, stating the model year was not included in their paint warranty extension, even though similar peeling paint defects have been acknowledged and covered by Hyundai on earlier Sonata model years. The dealer ultimately repainted both rear panels due to the nature of the failure, but Hyundai required me to pay approximately 20% of the repair cost as a goodwill arrangement. I was not offered a full repaint or full reimbursement. I have also observed early signs of potential paint adhesion issues around the rear window frame, raising concern that the defect may progress to other areas of the vehicle. This appears to be a manufacturing paint adhesion defect rather than normal wear, and similar issues have been widely reported on Hyundai vehicles. I am reporting this issue to document a recurring paint adhesion defect on the 2020 Hyundai Sonata and to assist in identifying a potential pattern affecting additional vehicles.

Engine/Powertrain🔵 Low
SEATS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

My 202 Hyundai Sonata is involved in the current hyundai fuel system recall. on 10/26/25 the fuel tank expanded and caused three explosive "boom" sounds inside the vehicle while I was driving with passengers. The backseat began heating and rising upward due to fuel tank swelling. The tank became pressurized, hissing, bubbling, and would not accept fuel. The vehicle became inoperable. The car has now been at hyundai of camelback since 10/27/25 (30 days). Hyndai Corporate has repeatedly delayed providing a remedy and keeps telling me they "need another week". I have received no repair plan, and no decision. This violates the requirement for a timely recall remedy. The defect caused structural damage and created a serious safety hazard. "

Electrical🔵 Low
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

The contact owns a 2020 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked, the vehicle failed to start as intended. The contact stated that several unknown warning lights were illuminated. The contact stated that the vehicle eventually started and drove normally. The vehicle was then taken to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed and determined that the starter needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 27,000.

Other⚠️ High
UNKNOWN OR OTHER

Coolant is leaking again after being fixed at a Hyundai dealer. If I don't fix it, my car will overheat and catch fire in the middle of a public road. My warranty has now expired, so I'll have to pay for the repairs myself. However, this problem is a design flaw, not related to the car's age or mileage. Hyundai should fix this problem. I'm not the only one; there are a lot of people complaining about this.

Safety Systems🔵 Low
BACK OVER PREVENTION

The contact owns a 2020 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated that while reversing, the back-over prevention camera malfunctioned, and there was no image of the rear of the vehicle displayed. The contact stated that the display screen only displayed lines. The contact stated that the failure caused a visibility hazard for the driver. The vehicle was examined by an independent mechanic who determined that the camera was faulty and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The local dealer and manufacturer were not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 130,000.

Electrical⚠️ High
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VISIBILITY/WIPER

Wiring harness under fuse box is not making a consistent connection and is causing the blower amp to overheat and disconnect. When this happen, cabin air doesn’t blow and the front and rear defrost stops working. The only way to make the blower engage is by removing the fuse box cover and tapping the 30 amp fuse things. I’ve taken my car to the dealership for this specific problem 5 separate times, and it was supposed to be corrected. Due to this poor connection, I am now about $1200 into repairs / replacing parts that aren’t the root cause. I am not taking my car back to the dealership for a 6th time to have it “fixed” but the service guy looked me in the face and said “you should trade it. We see this issue all the time in sonatas and elantras. It won’t be fixed”. I’ve replaced the blower motor, had the Freon charged, this is one of the vehicles with the exploding gas tank, and I’ve already paid to replace gaskets.

Safety Systems🔵 Low
BACK OVER PREVENTION

The contact owns a 2020 Hyundai Sonata. While the contact's wife was reversing, the back over prevention camera system displayed a black screen. The dealer was made aware of the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The contact referenced an unknown recall with a similar failure; however, the VIN was not associated. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and a case was filed. The failure mileage was approximately 46,000.

Engine/Powertrain🔵 Low
POWER TRAIN,ENGINE

The contact owns a 2020 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated that the vehicle hesitated while depressing the accelerator pedal, with the check engine warning light illuminated on the instrument panel. The vehicle was taken to several independent mechanics and dealers to be diagnosed; however, the cause of the failure was not determined. The contact stated that one mechanic replaced an unknown sensor, but the failure returned soon after the repair. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 101,000

Engine/Powertrain🔵 Low
STRUCTURE,SEATS,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

In early May 2025 while driving around 40mph, I heard a very loud pop which startled me. Pulled over and looked back and noticed my backseats were push up out of place. I attempted to put the seat back into place but it wouldn’t fit into the latch anymore. The framing underneath the seats looked pretty damaged so I took it to a local mechanic. After doing some research, he found information for a check valve/fuel tank recall (Service Campaign 9B1) and then advised me to go a Hyundai dealership. I attempted to take it to the dealership, whom sent me away after I advised them of what happened. I came back the next day asking them to take a look at while informing them about the recall that could be related. Later that evening, they called and said the issue was directly related to the recall and the repairs would be covered. My car was in their possession for from 5.12.25 to 7.25.25 without any updates or instructions on what is happening. I was told they’re waiting to hear back from Hyundai Manufacturer on how to proceed. They returned my car to me on 7.25.25 stating everything was repaired. On 7.31.25 they called me back stating my tank needs to be replaced and bring the car back asap. My car was again being repaired and was returned to me on 8.25.25. Now my vehicle will not start randomly sometimes. At this point, I’m under the impression my vehicle is no longer safe as all the issues I’ve been facing are fuel related.

Engine/Powertrain🔵 Low
POWER TRAIN

My certified pre-owned 2020 Hyundai Sonata has experienced the same critical transmission failure three times since October 2024, creating dangerous safety conditions on highways and city streets. Component/System Failed: Transmission control system with consistent P0768 error code (Shift Solenoid D Circuit Fault). Safety Risks: The transmission failures cause sudden power loss and inability to accelerate while driving, including on highways at speed. This creates immediate danger to myself, passengers, and other drivers when the vehicle unexpectedly loses power during traffic situations requiring acceleration or merging. Problem Reproduction: The failure has been confirmed and reproduced by authorized Hyundai dealership three separate times: - [XXX]: P0768 error, replaced shift control solenoid valve - [XXX]: Same P0768 error returned, replaced entire transmission control unit - [XXX]: Same P0768 error again, replaced complete control wiring harness with extensive dashboard removal Warning Signs: Each failure was preceded by transmission hesitation, rough shifting, and check engine light activation before complete power loss occurred. Manufacturer Inspection: Hyundai technical assistance case #[XXX] was opened for the third failure, acknowledging the recurring nature of this defect despite multiple repair attempts. Assessment: This appears to be a systematic manufacturing defect in the transmission control system affecting safety. Despite three different repair approaches by Hyundai, the identical P0768 error continues to recur, suggesting a fundamental design or manufacturing flaw that creates ongoing safety risks for drivers. The vehicle was out of service for 44 total days across these three incidents, indicating the severity and complexity of this recurring safety defect. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there any recalls for the 2020 HYUNDAI Sonata?

Yes, the 2020 HYUNDAI Sonata has 4 recorded recalls from NHTSA. These recalls cover various components including ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE, EQUIPMENT:OTHER:LABELS, LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:TRUNK LID:LATCH.

Is the 2020 HYUNDAI Sonata safe to drive?

The 2020 HYUNDAI Sonata has 4 recalls. If you own this vehicle, check with your dealer to ensure all recall repairs have been completed. Most recalls have free remedies available.

Where can I check if my 2020 HYUNDAI Sonata has open recalls?

You can check for open recalls by visiting NHTSA.gov and entering your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), or by contacting your local HYUNDAI dealer.

🎯Risk Areas & Recommended Actions

Based on recall data, these components require verification:

1

Electrical system

Issue: increases crash or loss-of-control risk

If you already own this vehicle: Contact your dealer immediately to confirm electrical system recall is complete. Recall repairs are always free.

🔍

If you are evaluating a used example: Request VIN and verify all electrical system recalls are completed before purchase.

Campaign:20V213000
2

Equipment

Issue: increases crash or loss-of-control risk

If you already own this vehicle: Contact your dealer immediately to confirm equipment recall is complete. Recall repairs are always free.

🔍

If you are evaluating a used example: Request VIN and verify all equipment recalls are completed before purchase.

Campaign:20V122000
3

Latches/locks/linkages

Issue: increases occupant injury risk

If you already own this vehicle: Contact your dealer immediately to confirm latches/locks/linkages recall is complete. Recall repairs are always free.

🔍

If you are evaluating a used example: Request VIN and verify all latches/locks/linkages recalls are completed before purchase.

Campaign:22V196000
💡Visit NHTSA.gov or contact your HYUNDAI dealer to verify recall completion status.

🧭What This Means for You

Both current owners and prospective buyers benefit from reviewing this safety analysis before making decisions.

If you're unsure, we recommend starting with a VIN check or consulting a certified mechanic.

🔑

If You Own This Vehicle

  • Verify all 4 recalls have been completed using your VIN at NHTSA.gov or through your HYUNDAI dealer.
  • If any recalls are open, schedule service immediately—recall repairs are always free.
  • Consider setting up VIN-specific alerts to receive notification of future recalls.
🛒

If You're Buying Used

  • Request documentation proving all recalls were addressed before finalizing purchase.
  • Factor potential recall-related service time into your ownership cost estimates.

This page is designed to help you decide, not alarm you.

Compare with Similar Vehicles

Data sourced from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Last updated: January 10, 2026.