I have 100k miles. Just to start, I was aware there might be engine issues ahead and I’m still unsure about what to do in this situation.
While driving, my car began misfiring, the yellow engine light started flashing, there were strange engine noises, and I lost acceleration. I barely made it to AutoZone to get a code readout, and of course, it came back as P1326.
I had my car towed to the nearest Hyundai dealership and left them a message. They called back the next day, mentioned that the only reason for my car breaking down was that there was no oil on the dipstick and that my spark plugs looked a bit worn. I was confused and disappointed because I thought I had just put oil in it less than 2k miles ago. I told them about the lifetime warranty on the engine, but they insisted that since my engine passed their bearing rod test, there was nothing they could do. They assured me that if my engine fails, it would be covered. They charged me $300 for an oil change and new spark plugs and sent me on my way.
What should I do now? Should I keep pressing them, or just wait for my car to break down in a risky spot like the highway where I might not have help? If they know my engine will fail, why can’t they replace it now? I got the P1326 code, which means I should be covered by the warranty, yet they still claim my engine is fine.
It seems like they took advantage of you for that $300. The code usually indicates a problem with the knock sensor which isn’t related to the spark plugs. Did it go into limp mode, like unable to go over 30 mph? If your oil light came on, you might have been down at least two quarts. It could be that it’s just a knock sensor issue, which is relatively easy to fix. If they say they actually did the rod bearing test, that would probably cost you hundreds on top of the $300 you paid. You should reach out to Hyundai directly; they’ll intervene with your dealership, and it might be a good idea to visit a different dealership if you have one nearby. If you’re hearing any knocking noises, your rod bearings may already be on their way out and could fail soon. My engine made a slight knocking sound when starting up, and just 10 minutes later, while on the highway, the rod blew a hole in my engine block. Hyundai may require you to go through an oil consumption test.
@Briar
Mine also went into limp mode, but they said it passed the bearing test. They are taking their time getting back to me and meanwhile, I’m going broke with a rental.
My 2015 Sonata is currently in the shop for the same issue as yours. How did you find out about the lifetime warranty? Was it due to the lawsuit? I’m worried they might not treat me fairly.
Journey said:
My 2015 Sonata is currently in the shop for the same issue as yours. How did you find out about the lifetime warranty? Was it due to the lawsuit? I’m worried they might not treat me fairly.
I found out about the lifetime warranty after I got the P1326 code. I started searching online and found a lot of threads about the warranty and the lawsuit. Then, I checked my VIN on the Hyundai recall website and saw that my vehicle was included in the same campaign.
From what I’ve read from others, I’d say about 90% of Hyundai dealerships are quite stubborn about this issue. If you feel your dealership isn’t treating you right, make sure to refuse any upsells. Like Coach pointed out, they definitely took $300 from me for giving me new spark plugs, which shouldn’t even have been necessary for that code. I accepted the charge because I wanted my car back and couldn’t remember the last time I had my spark plugs changed. Only accept charges for an oil change or if they claim you needed more oil. Make sure they clearly explain what they say the problem was.
In the worst-case scenario, you get your car back in a few days, but you’ll be driving a ticking time bomb and might end up needing a rental anyway.
Look for others in this forum who are dealing with similar issues. Start saving all your oil change receipts because you’ll need them later in the process.
@Dallas
One of my problems was oil. I had to add oil every few days. It was disappearing but not leaking on the ground. All they’ve told me in three weeks is that there’s no compression. I’ve already spent my Social Security check for December and then some on a rental. They don’t care. I was promised a loaner if Hyundai approves a new motor. I haven’t heard anything in five days. I think I’ll contact the consumer affairs department like someone else suggested. This is one of six Sonatas my family has bought WITH CASH from this dealership! No loyalty at all!
@Dallas
My car threw the same code and almost shut down on the highway. They referred to it as limp mode. I’m a 65-year-old woman. I really don’t need the anxiety of it being ‘patched’ and I definitely can’t afford to pay for any more repairs.