2013 Hyundai Azera Problems
Compared with other Hyundai Azera years
Typical for this model
50/100 1.0× a typical year · 50 = typical
- Complaint rate is 1.0× that of a typical Hyundai Azera year, weighted for crashes, fires, injuries, recalls and mileage, and allowing for the era and for how long each year has had to collect complaints.
- 12 of its 112 complaints were filed by the end of 2015.
- Most reported problem: Clicking/clunking steering column (steering coupler) (31 complaints, median 60,500 mi).
- 2 recall campaigns on record. A VIN search at nhtsa.gov/recalls shows open recalls for a specific vehicle.
Nearby years with fewer complaints than typical and no open NHTSA investigation: 2014
Based only on NHTSA complaints, recalls and investigations. Not adjusted for how many vehicles were sold, and not a reliability rating. How this is calculated
- Complaints
- 112filed with NHTSA
- Median mileage
- 60,000miles, 55 complaints with mileage
- Recalls
- 2campaigns on record
- Trend
- StableComplaints filed in the last 3 full calendar years are within 25% of the 3 years before.
- NHTSA crash rating
- —no overall rating published
- EPA fuel economy
- 23 mpgcombined, 3.3L 6-cyl FWD · 20 city / 29 hwy
Sources: NHTSA records for the 2013 Hyundai Azera (complaints, recalls, investigations), EPA fuel economy. Report an error
What owners report
Owners of the 2013 Azera most often report steering problems, especially a clicking or clunking noise and looseness in the steering wheel, typically between roughly 30,000 and 115,000 miles. Complaints also describe an airbag warning light that stays on, often traced to the clock spring or occupant sensor, and, at higher mileage, brake fluid loss from the ABS unit. Many reports tie these symptoms to parts that were recalled or given extended warranty coverage on other Hyundai models.
- Steering
Clicking/clunking steering column (steering coupler)
- 31 complaints (28%)
- median 60,500 mi at 7.1 yrs old (20 state mileage)
- filed 2016–2023
Complaints describe a click, clunk or rattle from the steering column when turning the wheel, often just off center or over bumps, sometimes with play or vibration in the wheel and wandering on the highway. Owners say mechanics identified a star-shaped rubber steering coupler as the cause, and dealers varied in whether they covered the repair, with several owners noting the same part was handled under recall or extended warranty on other Hyundai models. Some describe the looseness getting worse over time. Reported from about 28,000 to 115,000 miles, and complaints often note the noise became louder the longer the car was driven.
What to check: Turn the wheel slowly left and right with the car parked and listen for clicking or clunking, then repeat over a rough road. Ask for service records showing whether the steering coupler or clock spring has been replaced.
2 excerpts from owner complaints in NHTSA records
“Loud clunking noise in steering and vibration when at highway speeds, took to repair shop and seen steering coupling needs to be replaced. After reseraching online I see that this is a very common complaint and should be recalled. My sonata had the same issue but was recalled and repaired. Clunking happens when driving or still and, sounds like metal loose in the column.”
NHTSA complaint #11258828, filed 2019-09, 115,000 miles“The coupling is broken and I don't even have 60,000 miles on the vehicle. The steering rattles and shakes while driving at any speed and is dangerous if not fixed. Hyundai has recalled other coupling systems but none on the Azera. I have owned cars with over 100,000 miles and have never experienced this error.”
NHTSA complaint #11251881, filed 2019-08, 64,455 miles - Air bags
Airbag warning light on (clock spring or occupant sensor)
- 13 complaints (12%)
- median 83,000 mi at 6.5 yrs old (8 state mileage, few)
- filed 2013–2023
Owners report the airbag warning light coming on and staying on after an ordinary start, sometimes with a front passenger seated. Complaints say dealers diagnosed a faulty clock spring in some cases and the occupant classification system in others, with codes such as B1763 and B1764 noted. Some owners describe the issue recurring after a reset or replacing the part. Mostly reported between roughly 40,000 and 111,000 miles, often on a start after the car sat overnight.
Recall 13V2640004 related service bulletins
What to check: Confirm the airbag light comes on briefly and then goes out at startup, and ask whether the clock spring or occupant classification sensor has been replaced, since service bulletins describe extended warranty coverage for the sensor on this model.
2 excerpts from owner complaints in NHTSA records
“When I crank up my 2013 Hyundai Azera the airbag light came on.I waited and the light never went out.had my car scanned and it stated the error is the clock spring in the steering wheel.I feel as if my safety is compromised if the air bag isn't working properly.I keep all maintenance up on my vehicle but this is out of my control.”
NHTSA complaint #11244346, filed 2019-08, 111,000 miles“Car was parked overnight in my driveway. The next morning I got up, started my car and now the air bag light is on. Dealer says I need a new clockspring. My car has 53000 miles. No accidents, oil changes every 3000 miles. How does this happen. Its clearly a manufacturing problem with Hyundai.”
NHTSA complaint #11286980, filed 2019-12, 53,000 miles - Brakes
Brake fluid loss and ABS unit issues
- 23 complaints (21%)
- median 94,000 mi at 11.3 yrs old (7 state mileage, few)
- 3 mention a crash, fire or injury
- filed 2018–2025
Complaints describe brake fluid disappearing quickly from the reservoir, abnormal brake noise, and in one case a buzzing sound from the engine bay that continued after the car was shut off. Owners say mechanics traced the loss to leakage around the ABS control unit, and some complaints about the related recall note the remedy did not address a possible fluid leak. Others mention the brake fluid warning light or a check engine light. Mostly reported from about 65,000 to 160,000 miles.
Recall 23V6510002 related service bulletins
What to check: Check the brake fluid level and look for fluid residue or wetness around the ABS module, and ask whether recall 23V651000 was completed.
2 excerpts from owner complaints in NHTSA records
“The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Azera. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed and attempting to slow the vehicle, the brakes made an abnormal squeaking sound. After a visual inspection of the engine compartment, the contact observed that the brake fluid reservoir was low. Upon refilling the brake fluid reservoir, the contact became aware that the brake fluid was draining abnormally fast. No warning lights were illuminated. …”
NHTSA complaint #11554831, filed 2023-11, 94,000 miles“The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Azera. The contact stated while driving approximately 35 MPH the vehicle began to vibrate and was losing forward momentum. The contact stated that he depressed the accelerator and the vehicle was not gaining forward momentum. The contact stated that several warning lights had been illuminated, but he was not sure which lights were illuminated. The contact stated that he pulled into a parking lot, stopped the vehicle, and turned it off. …”
NHTSA complaint #11580463, filed 2024-04, 160,000 miles - Engine
Engine knock, oil loss and stalling
Mentioned in 7 of 60 sampled complaints
Complaints describe knocking sounds, low oil level and stalling or loss of power, with dealers in some cases saying the engine was receiving little or no oil and needed replacement. A few owners report smoke, overheating or a fire after an oil change, and one notes the oil warning light came on before the trouble. Some complaints mention exhaust fumes and soot on the rear bumper described by dealers as normal. Reported from very low mileage (a few thousand miles) up to about 160,000 miles.
What to check: Check the oil level and condition and listen for knocking at idle and under light acceleration. Ask whether oil consumption has been monitored or any engine repairs were done, and whether the timing chain bulletin was applied.
2 excerpts from owner complaints in NHTSA records
“There is heavy black carbon buildup on the tailpipes and rear of my Azera. The Hyundai dealer said it is normal due to the type of catalytic converter they use. My lexus mechanic (our other car) said it probably a problem with the fuel to air ratio the car is using.”
NHTSA complaint #10567715, filed 2014-03, 3,000 miles“My engine seized up a few weeks ago while doing about 38 MPH on a city street. There was no warning prior to the engine seizing (I.e. Check engine light, oil temp gauge) nothing. The car made a rattling noise and started to shake violently as I tried to pull it off the road. I had it towed to a Hyundai dealership to have the engine looked at. The mechanic could not figure out what caused the engine to seize and wrote it up as an engine parts malfunction. …”
NHTSA complaint #11252361, filed 2019-08, 115,540 miles - Body and structure
Panoramic sunroof glass cracking or shattering
Mentioned in 4 of 60 sampled complaints
Owners report the front glass panel of the panoramic sunroof cracking or shattering suddenly, sometimes with a loud pop, while driving on the highway or with no impact observed. Complaints say glass pieces scattered inside the car and that the cause was not identified. Some owners were outside warranty coverage when it happened. Reported from new (under 10,000 miles) to higher mileage, often at highway speed.
What to check: Open the sunroof shade and inspect the front glass panel for chips, cracks or repairs, and ask whether the panel has ever been replaced.
2 excerpts from owner complaints in NHTSA records
“I was driving along on I-95 when I heard a loud, explosive popping sound. It freaked me out at first as it sounded like I had blown a tire, but the car didn't shake, bump or swerve. I hadn't seen anything in the road I could have hit, and I wasn't driving behind any construction type trucks dropping pebbles or sand. The car was driving as if nothing had happened, so I continued to the nearest exit. …”
NHTSA complaint #11113977, filed 2018-07, 90,900 miles“While driving on the highway the front glass panel of my 2013 Azera panoramic sunroof cracked from both corners, see pictures. I did not hear anything that would cause this type of damage. It just started to fall apart, glass pieces everywhere.”
NHTSA complaint #11352277, filed 2020-08, 7 miles
Buying note. On a used 2013 Azera, the steering coupler and airbag light are the most frequently reported items, so test the steering carefully and check for service records on both. Also confirm whether the ABS recall was completed and check brake fluid level and engine oil before buying.
Summary written with AI from a sample of 60 NHTSA complaints for this model year (picked at random, with complaints that state a mileage and recent ones taken first), then checked automatically against the source records. Where a problem shows a complaint count, every complaint for this model year was matched with fixed keyword rules (written with AI and tested against the sample), and the mileage, age and repair figures are calculated from those complaints; owners' figures are as stated, not verified. Other counts refer to the sample. The excerpts come from NHTSA's public complaint records and are unverified; capitalisation is normalised, NHTSA staff notes are removed, and shortened text ends with “…”. Something wrong? Request a correction.
NHTSA recorded 112 consumer complaints for the 2013 Hyundai Azera. 55 of the complaints include a mileage, and 44% of those were filed for vehicles with under 50,000 miles; the median is 60,000 miles. Of all complaints, 3 involved a crash, 6 a fire, 6 an injury, according to the filers. NHTSA lists 2 recall campaigns and 70 technical service bulletins for this model year. Compared with the other 4 Hyundai Azera model years that have at least 25 complaints and are old enough to compare, this one scores 50 out of 100, where 50 is a typical year for the model (typical for this model). The comparison allows for the era and for how long each year has had to collect complaints, but not for how many vehicles were sold.
Which parts are reported most
Complaints can name more than one part, so the counts add up to more than the total. Select a part to see its complaints, recalls and bulletins.
- Steering33 29%
- Brakes24 21%
- Air bags18 16%
- Engine17 15%
- Electrical system14 13%
- Body and structure9 8.0%
- Fuel system5 4.5%
- Other or unknown5 4.5%
- Engine cooling3 2.7%
Also reported: Suspension (3), Transmission and drivetrain (3), Wheels (3), Seat belts (2), Seats (2), Vehicle speed control (2), Exterior lighting (1), Tires (1), Visibility (wipers, defrost, mirrors) (1).
Example complaints
Steering: “The streeing wheel started clicking and or sticking a few months ago while turning. The clicking/sticking has progressively gotten worse and the steering wheel feels loose and unsecured. When driving on uneven roads the steering wheel rattles loudly and shakes constantly. I feel as I do not have any control of my vehicle at times and have to adjust contstantly when turning or driving over uneven roads.”
NHTSA complaint #11265971, filed 2019-10, 34,000 milesBrakes: “After my ABS system was activated after sliding straight on snow and ice on a side road (my speed was less than 15 MPH prior to braking), I heard a grinding noise. Shortly afterward, I could smell burnt rubber. I investigated my front right tire and noticed that a huge groove was scraped into the sidewall of the tire (on the back side of the wheel). The vehicle had to be towed to the dealership and they confirmed that the coil spring had broken in two places and was tearing into the back side of my tire. It almost tore all the way through the sidewall of the tire. …”
NHTSA complaint #11065967, filed 2018-01, 49,864 milesAir bags: “As of 7/26/19 my airbag light came on when I started my car it was still overnight and hasn't gone off I took it to nalley Hyundai in lithonia g.a 8/12/19 where I was told theirs no recall but the clock screw needs to be replaced and my steering column to fix the click in the steering wheel and was then given an estimate I feel this is a faulty item that is conducive to my safety and I shouldn't have to pay for it”
NHTSA complaint #11243387, filed 2019-08, 98,888 milesEngine: “This vehicle had been same issues from very beginning after purchased yr 2013. Shaking entire vhehcle every morning and exhaust furnes so I took sevices severial times on dealer shop on pharr,texas. Nothing changed and nothing improved they just mentioned it came from original engine design and typical problems but nothing serious. Oct.24th 2017 drop off my car at the dealer shop at pharr,texas and they did diagnosis and replaced some parts of the engin day by day. However they still do not know what is roots causes until today. …”
NHTSA complaint #11046019, filed 2017-11, 48,345 milesMileage when problems were reported
44% of the 55 complaints with a mileage were filed for vehicles with under 50,000 miles; the middle half falls between 33,364 and 90,900 miles.
Complaints by year filed
Trend: stable. Complaints filed in the last 3 full calendar years are within 25% of the 3 years before.
Fuel economy and running cost
EPA ratings for each 2013 Hyundai Azera version. Annual fuel cost is the EPA's estimate at its current fuel prices for 15,000 miles a year (55% city driving).
| Version | Engine | Transmission | City | Hwy | Comb. | Fuel / yr |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Azera FWD | 3.3L 6-cyl | 6-speed automatic | 20 | 29 | 23 | $2,900 |
Source: U.S. EPA and Department of Energy, fueleconomy.gov. Ratings are for comparing vehicles; real-world mileage varies with driving and conditions.
Recalls and investigations
- Service brakes, hydraulic › Antilock/traction control/electronic limited slip › Control…Covers: Hyundai Azera 2012–2015, Tucson 2010–2013, 2015, Elantra 2011–2015 +9 more
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…
- 13V264000Jun 25, 2013Air bags › Frontal › Sensor/control module-inactiveCovers: Hyundai Azera 2012–2013
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…
Recall details for the 2013 Hyundai Azera → · Check a VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls
Technical service bulletins
TSBs are manufacturer notes to dealers about known repair procedures. They are not recalls and do not by themselves mean a vehicle has a fault. 70 on record; the latest 10 are shown.
- 11038722Oct 15, 2026Back-over prevention (rear camera). Some Hyundai vehicles may be equipped with a parking distance warning (PDW) sensor(s) that may trigger various DTCs and display warning messages on the instrument cluster, resulting in the PDW…
- 11038456Oct 7, 2026Engine. Certain vehicles equipped with internal combustion engines may exhibit higher-than-expected engine oil consumption. This bulletin provides the inspection and repair procedures for vehicles…
- 11033679May 23, 2026Air bags, Electrical system. Certain 2012 – 2017 model year Accent, 2012 – 2017 model year Azera, 2013 – 2018 model year Santa Fe Sport, 2013 – 2019 model year Santa Fe, and 2012 – 2017 model year Veloster vehicles may exhibit…
- 11032526Apr 25, 2026Electrical system, Air bags. Some vehicles listed below may exhibit an intermittent airbag warning light and DTC(s) B1763 (OCS ECU Defect), and/or B1764 (OCS Mat Defect) may be stored. Hyundai is extending the warranty coverage…
- 11032525Apr 25, 2026Air bags, Electrical system. Some vehicles listed below may exhibit an intermittent airbag warning light and DTC(s) B1763 (OCS ECU Defect), and/or B1764 (OCS Mat Defect) may be stored. Hyundai is extending the warranty coverage…
- 11032523Apr 10, 2026Air bags. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has identified the presence of substandard and dangerous driver’s-side airbag inflators manufactured by Jilin Province Detiannuo Automobile…
- 11032522Apr 10, 2026Air bags. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued an urgent safety advisory regarding dangerous, counterfeit driver‑side airbag inflators manufactured by Jilin Province Detiannuo…
- 11025476Nov 6, 2025Exterior lighting. This bulletin provides information regarding condensation related to the accumulated moisture in the headlamp, rear combination lamp, daytime running lamp (DRL), or fog lamp. This TSB illustrates…
- 10253275Apr 9, 2024Transmission and drivetrain. This TSB provides a procedure to diagnose and replace, if necessary, an automatic transmission with Incorrect Ratio DTC (transmission clutch slip in gear above limit) listed on Page 2.
- 10251285Feb 14, 2024Visibility (wipers, defrost, mirrors). This bulletin contains information about the proper removal of the windshield wiper blade protective cover on all models. If the protective cover is not removed correctly, there is a possibility of…
Other model years of the Hyundai Azera
| Year | Complaints | Median mi | Recalls | Crash ★ | MPG | Score (50 = typical) | Trend |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2017 | 12 | 25,000 | 1 | — | 23 | — | Not enough data |
| 2016 | 15 | 34,196 | 1 | — | 23 | — | Falling |
| 2015 | 9 | 67,700 | 1 | — | 23 | — | Not enough data |
| 2014 | 48 | 21,200 | 1 | — | 23 | 30 · Fewer | Rising |
| 2013 | 112 | 60,000 | 2 | — | 23 | 50 · Typical | Stable |
| 2012 | 74 | 67,000 | 2 | — | 23 | 37 · Typical | Stable |
| 2011 | 20 | 42,000 | 3 | — | 22 | — | Falling |
| 2010 | 8 | 40,000 | 3 | — | 21 | — | Not enough data |
| 2009 | 26 | 47,669 | 5 | — | 21 | 51 · Typical | Falling |
| 2008 | 69 | 62,500 | 6 | — | 21 | 66 · More | Falling |
| 2007 | 132 | 56,000 | 8 | — | 20 | Not compared (before 2008) | Falling |
| 2006 | 188 | 56,500 | 5 | — | 20 | Not compared (before 2008) | Falling |
All Hyundai Azera model years · Best and worst years by complaints
Frequently asked questions
What are the most common problems with the 2013 Hyundai Azera?
Owners of the 2013 Azera most often report steering problems, especially a clicking or clunking noise and looseness in the steering wheel, typically between roughly 30,000 and 115,000 miles. The issues reported most often: Clicking/clunking steering column (steering coupler); Airbag warning light on (clock spring or occupant sensor); Brake fluid loss and ABS unit issues.
How many NHTSA complaints does the 2013 Hyundai Azera have?
NHTSA recorded 112 consumer complaints for the 2013 Hyundai Azera as of Oct 30, 2026. Complaints are unverified consumer reports and may be duplicated or inaccurate.
What part of the 2013 Hyundai Azera is reported most often?
Steering is named most often, in 33 complaints (29% of the total), followed by brakes with 24.
Has the 2013 Hyundai Azera been recalled?
NHTSA lists 2 recall campaigns for this model year. To check a specific vehicle, enter its VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
What gas mileage does the 2013 Hyundai Azera get?
The EPA rates the 2013 Hyundai Azera (Azera, 3.3L 6-cyl) at 23 mpg combined, 20 city and 29 highway, with an estimated annual fuel cost of $2,900 at 15,000 miles a year. Other engine and drive versions are rated differently.
At what mileage are problems with the 2013 Hyundai Azera reported?
Among the 55 complaints that include a mileage, the median is 60,000 miles and the middle half falls between 33,364 and 90,900 miles; 44% were filed for vehicles with under 50,000 miles.
About this data. Data from NHTSA (ODI) complaints, recalls, TSBs and investigations, updated Oct 30, 2026. Complaints are unverified consumer reports and may be duplicated or inaccurate. Fuel economy is from the EPA and DOE (fueleconomy.gov).
Complaint counts come from NHTSA’s public complaint database; we count each complaint once. The source records for this vehicle are on nhtsa.gov. Scores and trends are our own summaries of that data, described in the methodology. This page is not legal, safety or repair advice: for a specific vehicle, check its VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls and ask a qualified mechanic. See an error? Tell us.