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Hyundai · Known Issues

2006-2017 Hyundai Azera Problems: 5 Known Issues

2006-2017 model years · NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports · Updated September 2026

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Issue summary

According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 2006-2017 Hyundai Azera has 5 documented known issues, with 1 rated critical. The most serious is Timing Chain Tensioner Failure (3.3L/3.8L Lambda) ($800-$2,500 repair). Across all issues with published estimates, repair costs range from $100 to $3,000. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.

In This Article

  • Azera Engine1
  • Azera Suspension2
  • Azera Electrical1
  • Azera Transmission1
  • Recalls3
  • FAQ
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In This Article

  • Engine1
  • Suspension2
  • Electrical1
  • Transmission1
  • Recalls3
  • FAQ

All 5 Known Issues

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ALL YEARS201720162015201420132012201120102009200820072006

The 3.3L and 3.8L Lambda V6 engines in the Azera use timing chains with hydraulic tensioners that can fail due to oil pressure loss or internal wear. The tensioner relies on consistent oil pressure to maintain chain tension, and low oil levels or degraded oil can cause the tensioner to lose pressure, resulting in chain slack and noise. In severe cases, the chain can jump timing, causing valve-to-piston contact on these interference engines. Regular oil changes and maintaining proper oil levels are critical.

This issue also affects: Hyundai Accent, Hyundai Elantra, Hyundai Genesis Coupe

Common Symptoms

  • Rattling or chain noise on cold start
  • Check engine light with timing codes
  • Rough idle
  • Reduced engine power
  • Engine noise increases with RPM

How to Fix

Diagnose the concern by verifying oil level/condition, scanning for cam/crank correlation codes such as P0016-P0019, and listening for front cover timing chain rattle on cold start; if noise or correlation faults are present, remove the front timing cover and inspect the primary/secondary chains, hydraulic tensioners, guides, and cam phasers/CVVT components for wear or slack. Repair typically involves replacing the timing chain tensioners, guides, and chains as a complete timing set, changing the engine oil and filter, and addressing any root cause of low oil pressure such as sludge, a restricted pickup, or a worn oil pump. If the chain has jumped timing, perform a compression or leak-down test to check for bent valves before reassembly because these Lambda engines are interference designs. Typical repair cost is about $1,500-$3,000 depending on parts replaced and labor time, with substantially higher cost if cylinder head or valve damage is found.

What you need to fix it

Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

  • Melling 3-1045S 18-piece stock-replacement timing set
    OEMMelling 3-1045S; JEGS 689-3-1045S

    complete chains/guides/tensioners/sprockets repair set after oil-pressure, correlation and mechanical inspection confirms timing-system wear Fitment/availability: Melling application bulletin covers 2006-2011 Hyundai 3.3L and 2006-2012 H…

    JEGS

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

Typical repair cost:$800 - $2,500

Research This Issue

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Community Reported
Medium Confidence

The hydraulic power steering system on the Azera develops leaks from the high-pressure hose, pump seals, and steering rack seals. The power steering hose is the most common leak point, typically failing at the crimp fitting where the hose connects to the metal line. A leaking power steering system causes whining noise, heavy steering, and can lead to pump damage if fluid runs low. The pump itself can also develop seal leaks from age and heat.

Common Symptoms

  • Power steering fluid on ground under vehicle
  • Whining noise when turning steering wheel
  • Heavy or stiff steering
  • Low power steering fluid level
  • Groaning noise at full lock

How to Fix

Confirm the leak source by cleaning the power steering system, filling the reservoir with the correct Hyundai-approved fluid, and inspecting the high-pressure hose crimps, pump body/front seal, and steering rack boots while the engine is running and the wheel is turned lock-to-lock. The most common repair is replacement of the high-pressure power steering hose and sealing washers, followed by a fluid refill and bleeding procedure; if fluid is found inside the rack boots or leaking from the pump shaft/seals, the steering rack or pump should be replaced as an assembly. Typical repair costs are about $250-$500 for a hose replacement, $400-$800 for a pump replacement, and $900-$1,500 for a steering rack replacement depending on labor rates and part quality.

What you need to fix it

Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

  • Genuine Hyundai 57510-3L100 power-steering pressure hose assembly
    OEMHyundai 57510-3L100

    Hyundai Azera 3.3L hydraulic steering branch; verify VIN/build date and engine.

    HyundaiPartsDeal
  • Genuine Hyundai 57510-3L300 power-steering pressure hose assembly
    OEMHyundai 57510-3L300

    Hyundai Azera 3.8L hydraulic steering branch; verify VIN/build date and engine because retailer catalogs also contain high-grade/market distinctions.

    HyundaiPartsDeal

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

Typical repair cost:$200 - $1,000

Research This Issue

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Community Reported
Medium Confidence

Front strut mount bearing plates wear out, causing a creaking or groaning noise when turning the steering wheel, especially at low speeds or when stationary. Common after 60,000 miles.

This issue also affects: Hyundai Scoupe

Common Symptoms

  • Creaking noise when turning
  • Groaning from front end
  • Steering wheel vibration
  • Noise at low speed maneuvers

How to Fix

Replace front strut mount bearing assemblies. Replace struts at the same time if over 80,000 miles. Perform front-end alignment after work is complete.

What you need to fix it

Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

  • KYB SM5618 front strut mount and bearing kit, quantity one
    OEMKYB SM5618

    early-generation front mount/bearing replacement after loaded steering inspection confirms binding or mount failure Fitment/availability: 2006-2011 Hyundai Azera, front left or right; quantity two per vehicle when replacing both sides. C…

    ShockWarehouse
  • KYB SM5777 front strut mount and bearing kit, quantity one
    OEMKYB SM5777

    later-generation front mount/bearing replacement after loaded steering inspection confirms binding or mount failure Fitment/availability: 2012-2017 Hyundai Azera, front left or right; quantity two per vehicle.

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

Typical repair cost:$250 - $500

Research This Issue

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Community Reported
Medium Confidence

Starter motor solenoid contacts wear causing intermittent no-crank conditions. The engine may click once but not turn over, then start normally on a subsequent attempt. More common in hot weather.

Common Symptoms

  • Single click no crank
  • Intermittent no-start
  • Starts on second or third try
  • Worse in hot weather

How to Fix

Replace starter motor assembly. Inspect and clean battery cable terminals and engine ground strap. Check for proper voltage at starter solenoid terminal during crank attempt to confirm diagnosis.

What you need to fix it

Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

  • Genuine Hyundai 36100-3CA00 starter assembly
    OEMHyundai 36100-3CA00; replaces 36100-3C130

    early-generation OE starter branch after in-vehicle electrical testing confirms starter failure and the VIN catalog calls for original 36100-3C130 or replacement 36100-3CA00 Fitment/availability: 2006-2010 Hyundai Azera DOHC-MPI High Gra…

    HyundaiPartsDeal
  • Genuine Hyundai 36100-3C150 starter assembly
    OEMHyundai 36100-3C150; replaces 36100-3C180

    alternate early-generation OE starter branch after electrical testing confirms starter failure and the VIN catalog calls for this Remy-family assembly Fitment/availability: 2006-2010 Hyundai Azera DOHC-MPI sedan as cataloged; replaces 36…

    HyundaiPartsDeal
  • Genuine Hyundai 36100-3C221 starter assembly
    OEMHyundai 36100-3C221

    later-generation OE starter replacement after electrical testing confirms starter failure Fitment/availability: 2011-2016 Hyundai Azera DOHC-GDI sedan as cataloged. Confirm VIN because the record spans a generation change and 2017 is int…

    HyundaiPartsDeal

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

Typical repair cost:$250 - $500

Research This Issue

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Community Reported
Medium Confidence

The 2006-2011 Hyundai Azera with the 5-speed or 6-speed automatic transmission develops shift hesitation, particularly a noticeable 1-2 shift delay under wide-open throttle when cold. The torque converter lockup clutch also develops shudder during light-throttle cruising at 35-55 mph. Hyundai issued a PCM recalibration procedure to address the cold-start hesitation. If the transmission fluid is not changed regularly, the shudder progressively worsens and can lead to torque converter failure or internal transmission damage. The Azera shares its transmission with the Sonata and Santa Fe of the same era.

This issue also affects: Hyundai Accent, Hyundai Genesis Coupe, Hyundai Kona

Common Symptoms

  • Delayed or hesitant 1-2 upshift, especially when cold
  • Shudder or vibration at 35-55 mph during light throttle
  • Harsh shift from 2nd to 3rd gear
  • Transmission slipping sensation on acceleration
  • Check engine light with transmission-related codes
  • Hesitation as if transmission cannot decide whether to shift

How to Fix

Typical repair cost:$100 - $3,000

Research This Issue

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Community Reported
Medium Confidence
NHTSA Recalls3 recalls

LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:TRUNK LID:LATCH

Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2017-2018 Sonata, 2016-2018 Sonata Hybrid, 2018-2020 Accent, and 2016-2017 Azera vehicles. The trunk latch may become damaged, preventing the opening of the trunk from the inside. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 401, "Internal Trunk Release."

Campaign #21V61900006/08/2021

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP:CONTROL UNIT/MODULE

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. The Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) module may leak brake fluid internally and cause an electrical short, which can result in an engine compartment fire while parked or driving.

Campaign #23V65100022/09/2023

AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:SENSOR/CONTROL MODULE-INACTIVE

Hyundai Motor Company (Hyundai) is recalling certain model year 2012-2013 Azera vehicles manufactured May 22, 2012, through November 23, 2012. The occupant detection system may fail to properly differentiate whether the front passenger seat occupant is an adult, a child or a child restraint seat.

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Other Hyundai Models

Hyundai Elantra42Hyundai Sonata31Hyundai Tucson23Hyundai Veloster22Hyundai Palisade19Hyundai Santa Cruz17

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common Hyundai Azera problems?

According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 2006-2017 Hyundai Azera has 5 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: Timing Chain Tensioner Failure (3.3L/3.8L Lambda), Starter Motor Intermittent No-Crank, Automatic Transmission Shift Hesitation and Shudder. Of these, 1 is rated critical and should be addressed promptly.

Is the Hyundai Azera reliable?

The 2006-2017 Hyundai Azera has 5 known issues compiled from NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports. 1 issue is rated critical: Timing Chain Tensioner Failure (3.3L/3.8L Lambda). Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.

How much does it cost to fix common Hyundai Azera problems?

Repair costs for known Hyundai Azera issues range from $100 to $3,000, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, Timing Chain Tensioner Failure (3.3L/3.8L Lambda), typically costs $800-$2,500 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.

What year Hyundai Azera is the most reliable?

Reliability varies across model years of the Hyundai Azera. Based on documented issues, problems are most commonly reported in earlier model years. Au7o recommends checking the specific known issues for your target year before purchasing, and having a pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified mechanic. Our known issues database covers the 2006-2017 Hyundai Azera with 5 documented issues compiled from NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports.

What is the 2006-2011 Hyundai Azera Timing Chain Tensioner Failure (3.3L/3.8L Lambda)?

The 3.3L and 3.8L Lambda V6 engines in the Azera use timing chains with hydraulic tensioners that can fail due to oil pressure loss or internal wear. The tensioner relies on consistent oil pressure to maintain chain tension, and low oil levels or degraded oil can cause the tensio… Repairs typically run $800-$2,500. Severity: high.

Content on this page was compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, owner reports, and public automotive data. While we strive for accuracy, this information may contain errors. Always verify repair procedures and specifications with your vehicle's service manual or a qualified mechanic.

Data compiled from NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, automotive forums, and AI-assisted research. No aggregated owner-report counts available for this vehicle yet.

Campaign #13V26400025/06/2013

Enter your VIN at NHTSA.gov to check recalls specific to your vehicle.

What is the 2006-2017 Hyundai Azera Starter Motor Intermittent No-Crank?

Starter motor solenoid contacts wear causing intermittent no-crank conditions. The engine may click once but not turn over, then start normally on a subsequent attempt. More common in hot weather. Repairs typically run $250-$500. Severity: medium.

What is the 2006-2011 Hyundai Azera Automatic Transmission Shift Hesitation and Shudder?

The 2006-2011 Hyundai Azera with the 5-speed or 6-speed automatic transmission develops shift hesitation, particularly a noticeable 1-2 shift delay under wide-open throttle when cold. The torque converter lockup clutch also develops shudder during light-throttle cruising at 35-55… Repairs typically run $100-$3,000. Severity: medium.

What is the 2006-2011 Hyundai Azera Power Steering System Leak?

The hydraulic power steering system on the Azera develops leaks from the high-pressure hose, pump seals, and steering rack seals. The power steering hose is the most common leak point, typically failing at the crimp fitting where the hose connects to the metal line. A leaking pow… Repairs typically run $200-$1,000. Severity: medium.

What is the 2006-2017 Hyundai Azera Front Strut Bearing Plate Wear and Creaking?

Front strut mount bearing plates wear out, causing a creaking or groaning noise when turning the steering wheel, especially at low speeds or when stationary. Common after 60,000 miles. Repairs typically run $250-$500. Severity: low.