At the shop, Hyundai brake issues have a recognizable signature. 3,093 documented complaints across 126 year-model entries from 2005 to 2025 is consistent with what we see come in. Complaint volume is spread across the lineup rather than parked on one bad year. That's the signature of a platform or supplier issue, not a single-year flub. 1 fatality report on file with NHTSA tied to this category on Hyundai vehicles. That elevates this from nuisance to safety-critical. Across the 1,125 complaints reporting odometer mileage, the median failure lands at about 58,107 miles. Repair cost runs around $450 on average — relatively low for an aggregated category. Pulsing, grinding, soft pedal — none of those should sit more than a week. Brake problems compound fast on a vehicle already on the list.
Hyundai brakes problems
3,093 owner complaints filed with NHTSA against Hyundai vehicles for brakes issues. 13 active recall campaigns. See brakes across all makes →
Worst-affected Hyundai model-years for brakes Top 25 by complaint volume
Active recalls — Hyundai brakes 12 on file
Hyundai Motor Company (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2013-2014 Elantra sedan, coupe and GT vehicles
If the brake light switch plunger does not retract as it should when the brake pedal is not being pressed, the brake lights may stay illuminated preventing accurate communication to following vehicles that the vehicle is slowing or stopping. Additionally, if the brake switch plunger is not retracted, then the transmission can be shifted out of PARK without depressing the brake pedal. Either condition increases the risk of a crash.
Hyundai is recalling certain model year 2009-2012 Genesis vehicles manufactured April 30, 2008, through March 28, 2012
If the module corrodes, reduced brake effectiveness may result, increasing the risk of a crash.
Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2013-2015 Santa Fe Sport vehicles
An electrical short in the ABS module can increase the risk of an engine compartment fire while parked or driving.
Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2018 Santa Fe Sport vehicles
An engine compartment fire while parked or driving can increase the risk of injury.
Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2021 Palisade vehicles
Reduced braking performance can extend the distance required to stop the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2013-2015 Santa Fe Sport vehicles
If the ABS module short circuits, there is an increased risk of an engine compartment fire.
Hyundai Motor Company (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2017 Elantra vehicles
A loss of power brake assist can lengthen the distance needed to stop the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Hyundai Motor Company (Hyundai) is recalling certain model year 2015 Sonata vehicles manufactured April 25, 2014, through June 16, 2014
If a brake caliper fractures, brake effectiveness would be reduced, lengthening to distance required to stop the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2011-2015 Elantra, Genesis Coupe, Sonata Hybrid, 2012-2015 Accent, Azera, Veloster, 2013-2015 Elantra Coupe, Santa Fe, 2014-2015 Equus, 2010-2012 Veracruz, 2010-2013 Tucson, 2015 Tucson Fuel Cell, and 2013 Santa Fe Sport vehicles
An engine compartment fire while parked or driving can increase the risk of injury.
Hyundai Motor Company (Hyundai) is recalling certain model year 2011 Sonata vehicles manufactured from December 11, 2009, through September 1, 2010
If the brake lines leak brake sufficient fluid, the brake warning lamp in the instrument cluster will illuminate and longer stopping distance will be required, increasing the risk of a vehicle crash.
Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2025 Hyundai IONIQ 5 "N" vehicles equipped with left-foot braking (LFB) and N e-shift features
Reduced braking performance and unexpected, continued acceleration increase the risk of a crash.
Hyundai is recalling certain model year 2011 santa fe vehicles manufactured from september 28, 2010, through november 25, 2010
As a result, brake fluid will leak, followed by illumination of the malfunction indicator light indicating the brake fluid level is low and should be checked, then a soft or spongy brake pedal feel, and if not serviced, reduced braking power which could increase the risk of a crash.
Common questions
How many Hyundai brakes complaints are on file with NHTSA?
3,093 complaints across 126 model-year entries from 2005 to 2025. 13 active recall campaigns cover brakes issues across the Hyundai lineup.
Which Hyundai model has the most brakes complaints?
The 2013 Hyundai Elantra leads with 192 complaints in this category. Next: 2024 Palisade (184) and 2009 Genesis (106).
What does it cost to fix Hyundai brakes problems?
Independent shops average $450 for brakes repairs across the Hyundai lineup. Dealer pricing tends to run twenty to forty percent higher. Specific cost depends on the failure mode and parts availability.
Are there Hyundai brakes recalls?
Yes — 12 active recall campaigns cover brakes on Hyundai vehicles. Recall fixes are free regardless of mileage or warranty status. The list below shows current campaigns with their NHTSA numbers.