NHTSA Complaint #11649158 — 2017 HYUNDAI SONATA HYBRID

FAIL/MALFUNCTION 3/18/25: Internal engine failure diagnosed by local Avondale, AZ Hyundai dealership service - rod bearing failure suspected. Vehicle currently undergoing Bearing Clearance Test to affirm this or any connecting rod issues, with possible need for total engine replacement. When googling "Hyundai Sonata hybrid 2017 internal engine failure," masses of reports generate from consumers with this model, complaining of same defect, as do numerous recalls for such defects that have been mandated for the model with range of years including 2017.Yet when searching with my VIN, it says no recalls have been mandated, in spite of the undeniable, widespread identical defect. Available for inspection. SAFETY RISK: Driving on the freeway in city traffic at 70-75mph, the engine completely stopped and all dash lights lit up at once. Vehicle had to be coasted to shoulder to wait for roadside assistance. Extremely hazardous to us in vehicle and to all around us with sudden, dramatic speed change in moving, constant freeway traffic. First time: Our usual mechanics at Pep Boys did diagnostic but found nothing, the vehicle drove normally for them, yet they did our regular tune-up, oil change, etc. Two weeks later, the same event happened on freeway, identical to first time. We were very lucky that no crashes happened either time. Pep Boys advised that Hyundai investigate the issue. PRIOR SYMPTOMS: No warning lights or sounds presented until the events themselves, when the entire dash lit up. However, in the couple of months before, there were occasional, slight hesitation moments in the motion while driving at any speed. CONCERNS: 1) It seems Hyundai is on track to want to charge me for an entire engine replacement, or for whatever engine repairs they deem, e.g. connecting rods, for manufacturing defects that they are entirely responsible for, 2) no recall seems to be mandated YET for this VIN batch, and 3) too many consumers are in danger - physically and financially.