2023 Hyundai Sonata engine problems
27 owner complaints filed with NHTSA name the engine on the 2023 Hyundai Sonata — 31% of all complaints for this model year.
What owners report
“I own a 2023 Hyundai Sonata SEL. Over approximately three years, the vehicle experienced four separate incidents involving sudden loss of engine power and recurring fuel injector/powertrain problems. Three of these incidents occurred while the vehicle was being driven on interstate highways…”
filed Aug 7, 2026
“This is an extremely common issue plaguing Hyundai & Kia vehicles with the Theta III 2.5L Turbo engine, Such as Kia K5 GT, Hyundai Sante Fe, Hyundai Santa Cruz, & Hyundai Sonata N-Line. Its a failing ITM (integrated thermal management) unit or otherwise known as an ITMS unit. There is a rod within…”
filed May 14, 2026
Verbatim excerpts from complaints filed with NHTSA. Reports are not independently verified.
Related service bulletins
Some Sonata (DN8, DN8A) vehicles may have DTCs P218100, P2181F0, and/or P2181F1 (Cooling System Performance) set in the Engine Control Module, resulting in an illuminated Check Engine warning lamp. Follow the procedure…
26-EM-003H TSB · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions · issued Feb 5, 2026
Engine problems in other Sonata years
| Year | Reports | Share |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 Sonata | 3 | 7% |
| 2022 Sonata | 25 | 27% |
| 2021 Sonata | 34 | 26% |
| 2020 Sonata | 31 | 17% |
| 2019 Sonata | 86 | 53% |
| 2018 Sonata | 210 | 56% |
| 2017 Sonata | 383 | 50% |
| 2016 Sonata | 450 | 62% |
| 2015 Sonata | 623 | 54% |
| 2014 Sonata | 301 | 40% |
| 2013 Sonata | 735 | 39% |
| 2012 Sonata | 567 | 36% |
Other reported problem areas on the 2023 Hyundai Sonata
Counts are unique NHTSA complaints naming this component group. Complaints are unverified owner reports; mileage is computed only from complaints that included a usable odometer reading.