Although the Hyundai Sonata started as an entry-level family car, it has steadily become more stylish and performance-minded over the years. Fast-forward to the 2015 model, and it was still one of the best-selling Hyundai models on the market. However, even the hot-sellers have recalls.
Has there been issued any recalls for the 2015 Hyundai Sonata?
As of September 2020 – 8, which include:
- Faulty parking brake illumination
- ABS warning lamp failure
- Unresponsive power steering assist
- Sunroof panel may detach
- Improper airbag inflation
- Defective front passenger seat belt
- Brake caliper might fracture
- Left axle shaft might separate
Thankfully, in this article, we’ll cover each of these 2015 Sonata recalls in detail. We’ll also provide the steps you can take to get each resolved free-of-charge.
Faulty Parking Brake Illumination
NHTSA Recall ID: 17V359000
When you put on the parking brake, a dash light should illuminate to let you know that it is set.
In the 2015 Hyundai Sonata, corrosion in the switch can prevent that light from working, keeping you in the dark about the status of your parking brake. If you forget and drive away with it engaged, you could end up losing control due to excess drag on the brakes.
To fix the issue, technicians just have to inspect and replace the parking brake switch as a whole. Then, it will send the right signal to the dash light and turn it on when the brake is set.
ABS Warning Lamp Failure
NHTSA Recall ID: 15V678000
When any ABS components malfunction, a dash light should turn on to let you know about the problem.
In the 2015 Sonata, the light does not come on when ABS issues arise due to a problem with the control unit software. You may then end up driving away without knowing that you do not have anti-lock brakes on your side.
Fixing the lighting problem only requires a quick software update. After that, the system will correctly relay issues to the dash lights to let you know when your car needs ABS service.
Unresponsive Power Steering Assist
NHTSA Recall ID: 14V325000
The power steering system in the 2015 Sonata provides electronic assistance that makes it easier to maneuver around corners and obstacles. This system operates using signals that travel through its wiring harness in an instant.
Unfortunately, one or more faulty connections can prevent/delay those signals, resulting in power assist failing at inopportune times. The lack of proper signals can even prevent you from shifting the vehicle out of Park and into gear.
To remedy the situation, Hyundai dealers were instructed to stop selling the affected cars. Additionally, techs were issued a technical service bulletin detailing the repair process. They must use that bulletin to inspect the wiring harness and repair the faulty connections to fully resolve this issue.
Sunroof Panel Could Break Free
NHTSA Recall ID: 16V726000
The panoramic sunroof option provides an incredible view of the sky above plus looks great too. However, Sonatas equipped with this option may need repairs due to the risk of the panel detaching and flying off while driving.
Many of these sunroofs were poorly bonded with the wind deflector, resulting in this issue.
Techs just have to repair the anchor plate to secure the sunroof in place and keep it securely attached on all your travels.
Improper Airbag Inflation
NHTSA Recall ID: 16V232000
The airbags must fully inflate when deployed to cushion you and your passengers from impacts during a collision.
This may not happen in the 2015 Hyundai Sonata due to the absence of the chemical enhancer needed for its second stage of inflation. Without that enhancer, the airbags will remain partially inflated, potentially resulting in severe injuries.
Technicians have to replace the entire frontal airbag module to resolve this problem and ensure the safety system works as intended.
Defective Front Passenger Seat Belt
NHTSA Recall ID: 15V414000
Seat belts can only serve as a protective restraint when the latch clicks together securely. The assembly on the front passenger seat of the 2015 Sonata may not fully latch, leaving that individual in peril if an accident occurs.
Since it is the full latch assembly that is faulty, techs must replace it with a new one to remedy this issue.
Potential for Brake Caliper Fracture
NHTSA Recall ID: 14V368000
The brake calipers squeeze the pads against the rotors to smoothly bring your vehicle to a stop. When the calipers fail, your stopping power markedly decreases and could cause a severe accident.
On the 2015 Sonata, the caliper may not just fail, but it could fracture as well, leaving your car without working brakes.
Due to the high risk of an accident occurring, Hyundai asks that drivers have affected vehicles towed into the shop. While it is there, techs will replace the brake calipers with new ones that do not have the potential to fracture.
Separation of Left Axle Shaft
NHTSA Recall ID: 14V784000
During the manufacturing process, some 2015 Sonatas may have received the wrong left axle shaft. When operating the car with this incorrect shaft, the whole assembly could come out of the transaxle differential without warning.
If that occurs while driving, the car could stop moving forward, resulting in a crash. If the axle shaft comes out while the vehicle is parked, it could roll away.
To remedy this issue, technicians can simply inspect the axle shaft to confirm it is the wrong one, then replace it with a new one. That will keep it firmly attached to the differential while driving and when the car is parked.
How Do You Handle an Open Recall on a 2015 Hyundai Sonata?
To find out if your Sonata has an open recall, input the VIN into the Safety Recalls and Safety Campaigns page on the Hyundai site. Once you hit search, the system will let you know if any recalls are pending for the vehicle in question.
