Hyundai Push Button Start Problem Persists
Are you having problems with your Hyundai push button start? Have your keyless start problems left you stranded because your Hyundai won’t start?
We have been frequently writing about the dilemmas Hyundai drivers are encountering, including alignment issues and transmission troubles.Now comes a new one on the horizon: A problem with the Hyundai push button start.
The message boards are blowing up with folks who are being left stranded by the Hyundai push button start problem.
The issue has to do with a failure in the brake pedal sensor. Ideally, a driver is supposed to put their foot on the brake and push the button. Provided the Hyundai identifies a key fob in the vicinity (a pocket or purse), the car should start up with no problem. However, the sensor in the brake pedal appears to be defective. As a result, the car cannot comprehend that the driver has their foot on the pedal and the car will not start.
We know of many drivers who are regularly going back to their Hyundai dealer to address this problem, and some folks have been told that there is no fix being that it is intermittent. Others have been told that the problem will correct itself. That is not the case.
We believe the manufacturer has yet to identify a proper fix and many more Hyundai drivers are going to have this push button start problem ‘down the road.” This issue could certainly leave many drivers stranded in driveways, parking lots, and gas stations.
If you are suffering with a Hyundai push button start problem, it is important that you keep track of your repair invoices and you continue to have the matter addressed under your warranty until the issue is resolved. If you find that you have been back to the shop repeatedly for the matter, look into your rights under State Lemon Laws (including lemon laws in New York and New Jersey) and Federal Warranty Laws and contact a Lemon Law Lawyer in your state who may be able to assist you.
July 28th, 2012 at 9:30 am
I have a 2012 Hyundai Sonata. This car is driving me crazy. I wish i never traded in my 1999 Altima. The brake sensor was replaced 3 times in 1 week ! I have been stranded at supermarkets and at work. Sometimes i leave car running when i go to store now…because you never know if car will start or not. The Dealership told me after the 3rd time that it wasn’t the brake pedal sensor, that it was something wrong with key FOB. I think they lied because they knew my car would qualify under Lemon Law. I just want to get my money back…
July 30th, 2012 at 1:25 pm
Tim: Please call us at 1800 LEMON LAW to discuss your situation and how we can help.
October 31st, 2012 at 1:18 pm
The Sonata will start as long as the key fob is close enough to start the car when no problem exist. The owners manual identifies the procedure on how to do it. Simply push the start button until the screen icons for car systems are displayed on the screen in front of you. Hold the start button in until the car starts – this should be about 10 seconds.
I just had the brake stop under the pedal worked on this morning for the no start issue. The service representative said he didn’t know what the problem was, but, there were “some” other people complaining. I suspect the brake stop switch that allows the car to sense the brake is pushed comes loose over time – but – I do not know that for sure.
March 19th, 2013 at 7:01 pm
I have been having problems with my 2012 Elantra. I have had the master brake cylinder replaced when the car was only 6 months old. I’m going on my 3rd steering wheel due to it coming apart and now this push button thing … It hasn’t left me stranded yet but stalled out when I turned onto a busy feeder rd. So I have been debating on trading this car in for a Toyota now I think I might. I don’t want to be stuck with a car that the. “warranty” in no good.My dealership said that if the steering wheel comes apart again they can’t guarantee that it will be covered a third time so what’s the point of paying for the extended warranty. Other than these technology issues I love the car
Sarah.
March 28th, 2013 at 1:59 pm
@Sarah: It’s time look into your rights. Click here https://www.lemonlaw.com/lemon-law-firm.html and see if an attorney can help you seek remedy.
February 25th, 2014 at 10:43 pm
2011 Hyundai. I now need a “jump”anytime I want to drive. The push button does not work but radio & lights run fine. Tomorrow is 2nd trip to dealership. We have replaced battery in key foband dealership assured me the car battery is fine. When the car is “jump” the brake drops and car turns right over. It has been extremely cold here – is there anychance this brake sensor needs juice from battery and holds it in some reserve and that is the problem? I literally drove for 1.5 hrs this morning to work. I parked the car and then thought of moving it to a better spot – guess what – it wouldn’t start! I am concerned I will get the run around from dealer tomorrow as I have 73k miles on the car.
February 26th, 2014 at 8:00 pm
The push start ignition works with the brakes, there is a sensor that I think would be going bad. I had a similar issue with mine (I traded it in before more issues arose). I had to have the master brake cylinder replaced after only having the car for 6 months. After it was replaced I started having glitches with the push start. And my dealership gave me a bit of a problem after I had the steering wheel replaced twice for coming apart. I purchased the extra warrany as well but they said the could not guarantee it would be covered. Hopefully they don’t give you a problem. If so trade up for a Toyota never had a problem with any of the ones we have (one truck is 16 yrs old and going strong). Good luck to you.
July 28th, 2014 at 9:30 am
I am having the same problem with my 2012 Sonata. This all started about a month ago the same day I have my front brakes replaced. I thought it was the battery so I got a jump and it started. The next day i went to the dealership and they said nothing was wrong. A few days later it did it again. After I sat for a few minutes it started. Yesterday the problem occured again and I was 166 miles from home with two kids. I had to call roadside assistance and it still wouldn’t start. It was towed to the dealership and I am being told yet again nothing is wrong. It is obvious that something is wrong and it sounds like it has to do with the braking system and the push button start. These cars need to be recalled and fixed.
August 16th, 2014 at 2:58 am
I have gone in for this issue three times already. March, May, and now August. It happened in May and right after it FINALLY started I was driving and my car started super smoking and they had to replace the engine. It has had to get towed twice already and it’s only a 2013. They replace the brake switch AGAIN… I know it is going to happen again be use they already tried that… They can’t replicate the issue when I bring it in so they say they don’t know what’s wrong or how to fix it… I’ve missed days of work and been late sooo many time because of this…I’m very frustrated and wish I could just get rid of this troublesome car…
August 18th, 2014 at 11:03 am
Push start issues…
1st time they said it was the battery in key fob
2nd time they said it was my battery and they said it was a bad cell and gave me a new one
3rd time I had to have it towed and we had tried to jump it and also the tow truck driver tried, 4 times total within a 24 hour period (it was the weekend) called dealer this morning and they said that it started right up????
I am very frustrated….2013 bought brand new….
August 21st, 2014 at 1:17 pm
@Mary: Visit https://www.lemonlaw.com/lemon-law-firm.html to find a lemon law firm in your state. You need to have a lawyer review your claim and discuss your rights.
September 21st, 2014 at 9:55 am
We are having the same push button start problem with are tucson what we found is if you use the keyfob to push the button it starts. Are dealership don’t have have an answer to the problem either, your almost afraid to drive it anywhere, we are looking to trade it in for a honda we have a honda pilot 2003 and never had a problem!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
October 1st, 2014 at 1:40 pm
@William: How many times have you been back to the shop? Visit https://www.lemonlaw.com/lemon-law-firm.html to find a firm in your state to discuss your rights.
October 1st, 2014 at 2:31 pm
It has happened again, exactly one month from the third time it happened.. replaced the brake switch again. Im ready to trade this car in.
October 16th, 2014 at 6:40 pm
2011 Sonata with push button start. I bought this used to replace an ’05 Sonata that never gave me a problem. Right after I signed the papers, I walked out to start the car and it wouldn’t start. They eventually jumped the car and it started. Brought it home, went to work the next day, in and out for lunch with no trouble. Then when I went to go home, it wouldn’t start. Got it towed back to where I bought it and they brought it to a Hyundai dealer. They replaced the shifter, saying it was binding. I have continued to have issues but have gotten it started each time, usually by walking away from the car with the fob and then returning. It has been back to the Hyundai dealer twice, the second time for two days, but it starts each time there and they say there is nothing they can do.
October 29th, 2014 at 11:24 am
This has happened to my wife on a few occasions. I have never myself experienced this issue. I think the issue is with the brake sensor. She doesn’t press down on the brake hard enough or something. When you get in the car you’ll see that the power button is lit up white which indicates that the brake button has not been pressed, and if you push the button at this time, just the power will come on to the car, but the car won’t start. If you press on the brake (And the sensor is working), the light behind the power button will go off, indicating if you now push the button the car should start.
December 18th, 2014 at 8:08 am
Push button star problems began happening about 6 months ago on my 2011 Hyundai Elantra. It would start after two or three attempts. Last week the car would not turn over at all after 7 attempts. The dealer was able to reproduce the problem and a ECU update and/or ECM upgrade was performed. I hope that is the solution and the problem has been fixed.
June 8th, 2015 at 6:16 pm
We have had several issues with this 2013 Hyundai Elantra.
Everything that everyone is stating regarding this push button start elantra is 110% accurate. Worst nightmare…..who would think a brand new car would cause me so many issues.
I have been stranded at a gas station, my driveway , work, at a mall parking lot.
This has been to the dealer so many times and now I am done with it!!!!! Biggest POS every made ….why can’t they FIX the problem????????? Over 9X it has been to the dealer and its still
NOT FIXED.
FINDING A Lawyer to take care of the Hyundai LEMON wannnabee HONDA!!
June 16th, 2015 at 1:43 pm
@George: Visit https://www.lemonlaw.com/lemon-law-firm.html to find a firm in your state.
July 17th, 2015 at 10:54 am
2015 Sonata will not recognize either key fob. will not start. abandoned in my garage. been to dealer who says nothing wrong.
September 2nd, 2015 at 6:40 pm
Interesting about the brake pedal. This is happening to my 2013 Sonata, purchased brand new. First time dealer said it was a secondary dealer installed alarm. They took it off and all was fine for.a week. THEN, happened again.and my husband was stranded.for 2 hours. Tow truck came and was just ready to tow and car started. Fine for the.past few days but it is scary wondering if it will start or not.
Think I will not trade for another Hyundai.
September 23rd, 2015 at 12:02 pm
I am having the same problems with my 2012 Elentra. I push the button and everything lights up but won’t start. The brake pedal gets more and more pressure behind it as I try. I have had it to the dealer multiple times and they claim no knowledge of the problem. I have made numerous videos of it and sent them as well. I am so frustrated!
September 27th, 2015 at 10:03 am
We purchased our 2011 Hyundai Nov 2014 used was having starting issues first few days they said was key fob has been running fine since then on Friday 9/25/15 I was going in for major surgery and was late due to starter issue will not start then starts after 3-9 times trying was VERY stressful. Now home from surgery and we could not get it to start to go get my meds. I have an appointment Monday to see if they will fix I am going to show tr them all that you have said as well and call and see if Hyundai has a fix for any of this yet. Very sad we normally are very happy with every other Hyundai we have owned is this brake sensor covered under their warrant????
September 28th, 2015 at 10:49 pm
I have a 2011 sonata 2.0T.
If you suspect the remote battery is bad, place the entire remote in the slot in the arm-rest compartment and it should start by pushing the start. If so replace the remote battery with a 2032 coin battery.
If you suspect the brake pedal switch is bad, press start once, then press and hold start for 15 seconds, the car starts without pushing brake pedal down.
I bought the car recently and first notice a hesitation to start, that is a few engine turn before starting. Then I park the car at the restaurant and going back it cranks, but does not start. Tried few times and battery was cranking engine strongly, but would not start. Left the car overnight.
Next day cranks, no start. Pushed the car back to towe it, tried again and it starts right away. Drove it to home and parked in the garage. Drove the car few places and next day made appointment to take to dealer, it does not even crank. Removed battery negative and placed back few times to reset the car computer. Now it does not detect the remote. Press lock on the remote the parking lights come on and stays on forever.
Placed the entire remote in the slot located in the arm-rest compartment and try to start. It clicks to turn the engine over and it cuts off right away.
Next day towed to dealer and they said a cell in the battery is bad. They replaced the battery and it started.
I believe the problem is with the computer software and dealers have now fix for it. They keep replacing what they think off and car starts, just like when you started it even without replacing a part. The is called intermitting . Interesting to know is that the computer does not generate a fault code as why engine did not start. After the car starts the engine light is off(no fault).
It sounds like if a cell in the battery is bad, the car computer is not working properly and all of such problems is caused by computer due to low power source.. This could be the case if the computer is operating with 12 volt source, however, if the 12 volt is regulated to 5 volt source for the computer this should not be the case.
Not sure what else they have done to start the car, like somehow resetting the car computer.
I suspect the computer program since dealer cannot fix the problems and they keep changing parts at the customers expense and as I have not seen any one claim an absolute fix. In all the sites no one has ever suspected computer program. may be not even Hyundai.
October 23rd, 2015 at 10:26 am
I have a one year old 2015 Hyundai Tucson, purchased in 2014 BRAND NEW. I’ve had the push button start issue twice now. First time was within the first 4 months of owning it, that time it eventually started working, as roadside assistance was on it’s way. Second time I was out to lunch, came out and it wouldn’t start. Had coworkers with me who witnessed the whole thing, even the remote start app on my phone won’t start the car. Had a tow truck tow it to the dealer, and of course then it started for them. Today I dropped it off for them to do a thorough diagnostics on the electrical system. My fear is they’ll say the same thing they said the last two times; “it’s nothing”. If they don’t do anything, and it happens again, I’m done with this car. It’s my 3rd Hyundai and 2nd Tucson and love it. I didn’t buy a brand new car to be left stranded and in a bind.
October 24th, 2015 at 11:49 am
We have a 2013 Tucson with only 17,000 miles and since the beginning there has been intermittent problems starting the car. I can always get it started, but can take one, two or more times to push the button. It is difficult to reproduce for the dealer since it is so randomly intermittent . Last time the sensor for “park” was replaced. Then several days later same old problem. It’s at the dealer right now. Again.
October 24th, 2015 at 1:51 pm
Just picked my my 2013 Tucson from dealer service. Was a faulty brake sensor. Replaced. Fingers crossed.
December 20th, 2015 at 2:17 pm
My 2013 Hyundai Sport has been giving me problems. First it was the battery. Of course, when they charged it to check it out (after it being towed) it start right up and they said that it checked out just fine. This happened a half dozen times until they finally agreed (out of the goodness of their hearts) to replace the battery. No problems in that area since.
Now it won’t start intermittently. All lights go on, seat slides forward, radio comes on….but it doesn’t turn over. We have had it towed in, and upon arriving, when they got around to checking it, the car started! So they say, we can’t fix it unless the problem is duplicated here. Grrrr! Whatever happened to the person who took pride in begin able to check under the hood and find a problem. Now, they require a computer to do the diagnostics for them. It also probably tells them which screws to turn. I am just short of hiring a LEMON LAW attorney because I cannot afford to be stranded. The problem is that I LOVE this car! And I have told numerous people what a wonderful vehicle it is. It won’t take me long to withdraw all those accolades. I don’t love it at the moment.
December 30th, 2015 at 6:16 pm
I have had the issue on 2013 Santa Fe. Noticed breaks were harder than normal to press when it happened. Started watching the wife on each start till I saw no break lights and that time no start. After a couple trips to service They finally found a bad vacuum regulator. Took 3 days….. Been fixed 9 months.
January 7th, 2016 at 4:59 pm
Have you tried to put it in the armrest mine starts right up.
January 13th, 2016 at 5:42 pm
@Balson: 9 times???? You should certainly look into your rights. Visit https://www.lemonlaw.com/lemon-law-firm.html to find a lemon law lawyer in your state.
January 18th, 2016 at 11:53 am
I own a Hyundai I40 from 2012. My problem with the Start Button is that the car starts without pressing any pedal. So I cannot put the car on “ACC” mode. I cannot open a window or a headlight without starting the car. Does anybody know what the problem might be?
February 16th, 2016 at 2:27 am
Just bought 2013 Sonata…..after 3 days push start is not working.
I read about putting the FOB into the slot that is located in the lower armrest compartment (forward wall) ….IT WORKED!
Try it. Hope that solves the problem. I need to check into why this works & how I can get the car started the way it is supposed to.
I bet the seller is smiling all the way to the bank. (no wonder he quickly dropped the price by $1,000).
March 6th, 2016 at 11:01 am
I have a Hyundai 2014 Azera. I have not had any issues until 3/5/16. Everything lights up, radio comes on but there is a clicking sound when I push on the brake and hit the start button. Unfortunately I have been left stranded. Hours later it will start. This morning I got ready to leave and guess what? No start again. I love my car but I cannot have this.
March 11th, 2016 at 5:29 pm
We bought a 2014 Sante Fe in Lewiston, Id. The day after our purchase they closed the dealership because Hyundai refused to share a building with another name.
My problem is with the FOB falling apart. My husbands came apart in his pocket without any purposeful effort from him; just moving around in pocket.
Mine came off while i was shopping and is gone. The nearest dealer to us now is about a 4 hour drive away.
This FOB is a very poor design. You are supposed to have to push a small button to take the FOB cover off of the key inside. This should be a purposeful effort but apparently it can be rubbed inadvertently on something and cause it to separate. The “key” inside only opens the doors if need be and it stays attached to the key ring. The black body of the FOB falls off and is easily lost….this can cause a person to be stranded and possibly endangered depending on circumstances. The car will not run without the FOB.
April 7th, 2016 at 3:51 pm
Hi I have a 2015 Tuson I bought in May 2015 new it locked me out of the car 2 weeks after in 115 heat. I called the dealership in California they told me to push my remote to the push button to start it worked. But dealership could not find problem. This happens to me 2 to 3 times a month. I have taken back to dealership 3 times but they cannot find a problem. They did change the chip on car computer 2 days later I was straded at 3 different places. The last time in March 2016 the car was in for 11 days no result. I have started video on car. I I’ve no help from Natasha from hyundai. I did start a claim. Hyundai does not want to take responsibility for this. I am a diabetic I live in Las Vegas fearing summer and being stranded with a dead phone along with a dead car.
April 14th, 2016 at 6:34 am
I have a 2013 Hyundai Sonata turbo with 16000 miles been having a issue with the push button start press the brake pedal nothing happens i replaced the battery in the key remote,made a trip to the dealer they claim everything is working today is April 14 2016 im on the phone not to happy
April 16th, 2016 at 4:01 pm
This totally makes sense…I’ve been having starting problems intermittently too. The latest this week I had the neighbor jump my ’13 Tucson. The next afternoon it would not start. I left it since I was home and didn’t need to go anywhere. The next day asked a friend for a jump but decided to try it just for the heck of it, and it started.
Back up to the day before- I noticed that I couldn’t push the brake pedal when I went to start it. This is the first time I’ve had a keyless star so didn’t connect the two. It’s going for a diagnostic test Tuesday -when I took it s month and a half ago they checked the battery and it was fine but didn’t have time to run in depth test…now I have somewhere they can start.
Side note, I’ve had electrical issues since last year- the dash was light up like a Christmas tree one day and the guages were swinging all over. They cleaned the ground..hope it’s not related to this.
April 21st, 2016 at 4:23 pm
I have a 2014 Hyundai Elentra limited. I am so glad that I’m not the only one! Ugh this problem started about 6-8 weeks ago. At first it wouldn’t start the first time and then I would hit it again and it would start. Now I can sit there for hours and it won’t start. I’ve had it towed twice and brought it in myself once and still they cannot find the problem. At this point they’ve had my car for 7 days and have had it in total 15 days. They adjusted the break sensor and still it won’t work, but every single time I bring it it works for them! It’s absolutely infuriating! I’m starting my lemon law paper work tonight!
April 22nd, 2016 at 12:27 am
I bought a Hyundai Elantra GT in November 2014. Today, it only has 10k miles. Two months ago, the car didn’t recognize the key inside the car and wouldn’t start when I pressed the engine start button. I had to take the key out of my purse and put it next to the button for the car to start. That has not happened again. However, I could swear that the Engine Start Button indicator light used to turn green when car was on until a week ago, but doesn’t anymore. I took it to the dealer and they said that the indicator light never turns green! Am I imagining this?!
April 22nd, 2016 at 2:21 pm
@Sally: I would visit https://www.lemonlaw.com/lemon-law-firm.html to find a firm in your state who can help you.
May 26th, 2016 at 6:34 pm
My 2013 Hyundai Sonata Turbo been in the shop now 5 times for the same problem the replace the transponder in the PDM module inside the dash still doing the same thing not starting Dash goes out then restart again finally starts I had to call the rep now they are involved my situation hearing Manchester New Hampshire Hyundai dealer as I speak guys back at the shop got to keep it over the holiday weekend one good thing I got a rent a car
May 26th, 2016 at 6:38 pm
Why can’t they ever fix this issue with the push button start a 2013 Hyundai Sonata Turbo only has 17000 miles when I’m going through is so stressful asked me if I press the brake and push button I say am I that stupid course I do clicks then Dash goes out crank but no start I repeat the second time and starts go figure intermittent issues No Doubt
June 5th, 2016 at 8:30 am
I have a 2016 Santa Fe Sport Turbo with 4,800 miles. In April, the first day the temp reached about 85 mid afternoon, the car wouldn’t start. Was fine on 2 store trips earlier in the day. Brake pedal more firm than is should be, like an older power brake car not running. It was a Saturday of course and had it towed. Dealer said dead cell in battery, replaced and car good till next Saturday. Same as before, go to store, go to post office earlier and no issues. About 4pm try to go to store and no start. All lights on dash flashing, going thru system checks, but so start. I forgot to mention, no engine turn over, no clicks, nothing. All power works fine, air, radio, locks, even sun roof. Towed in again. I’m not a wizard, but seems heat affecting start. Dealer calls, car ready, a vacuum hose the issue. Right. I go to pick up the car and it won’t start at the dealership. Now I have the attention of service manager. See, I’m not an old fool. Get a call a couple days later, car fixed, pump bad. Ok, let’s see who is smarter. I tell service manager, park the car outside in the sun and call me in 4 hours. I get a call latter that day and the car won’t start. This 2nd trip to the shop started on May 1st. It is now June 5th and Orange Park Hyundai, Hyundai of America and their field techs don’t have a clue.
June 11th, 2016 at 4:20 pm
Try this.
I have a 2012 Hyundai Elantra that on 2 occasions, when the weather was extremely hot (around 100º), wouldn’t start even though the remote opened the door and all the lights, radio, dash lights worked. The battery was fully charged. It seems to be a computer issue, possibly the security system or, more likely, the break pedal sensor.
My car has the button starter. You have to press the brake at the same time as the button. Today, I noticed that the brake felt like it wouldn’t depress so the starter wouldn’t work. It is a failure of the brake sensor. I found that if you disconnect the battery and then reconnect it resetting the computer, the car starts.
June 25th, 2016 at 9:08 pm
I have a 2011 sonata.. Absolutely love my car until few weeks ago it wouldnt start!! Same problem like u all are having.. Al the lights come on the battery is 100%! I have to keep starting car over n over to finally get it to start! Thinking its the starter. I have 2 babies and my pregnant w my 3rd i cant afford being stranded again especially in this heat! It eventually starts but sometimes i have to walk away from car come back in and then it starts. Or i hold button in for 20 seconds and shut off and then start it up and works but sometimes it takes longer!! Boyfriend is gonna take it to garage tmrw and try n diagnose the problem! Ive has car 5 months now and am kicking myself in the a$$!
June 30th, 2016 at 7:59 am
sounds like I’m in the same boat regarding the push button starter. IM sitting in the dealership right now and they can’t find the problem so let’s replace the battery that is testing okay but its only 15 dollars. Last night I tried about 30 times for about 30 minutes. Went for a walk, tried again and it started. I drive a 2013 Elantra GT and love it but if this starter problem continues we might go from a 2 Hyundai family to a 0.
July 10th, 2016 at 11:08 am
I have a very similar problem just bought a Hyundai 2013 santa fe two months ago with 80000 miles. Everything’s been running great and then just this morning my wife went out to start the car and it wont turn over. All lights turn on windows work radio works so I know it’s not the battery. Gas pedal is very stiff I can put the car in neutral but it still won’t turn over. And I’m looking at my paperwork and I have an as-is warranty buyer’s guide. I was just hoping but there has been maybe a recall or something on this matter so that I don’t have to spend the time and money replacing it myself.
September 15th, 2016 at 8:31 pm
I purchased a Certified Pre-Owned 2013 Hyundai Elantra GT exactly one month ago today. It’s already heading back to the dealer a second time for this push button start issue. Last week they had my car for three days and told me they couldn’t duplicate the problem. They returned the car to me without having fixed or replaced anything so I knew it was only a matter of time before it happened again. They told me if it happened again, I need to have the car towed without trying to get it started because once it starts, all error codes are cleared and their computers would not be able to diagnose the issue. I accepted that as a reasonable explanation. Sure enough this morning the car wouldn’t start. I called Hyundai roadside assistance for the tow, only to be told when they arrived that their policy is to try to get the vehicle running before towing. I called the dealer and told them this and they said it is what it is. I explained that starting the car and bringing it in again only to be told they can’t duplicate the problem again is not an acceptable option. They told me it’s the chance I’ll have to take. I asked at what point do they start replacing parts with the hopes of getting it right instead of just going back and forth and they told me they can’t just throw parts into cars without knowing what the problem is. I understand that, however, nothing is being done to correct the problem and I’m being told there’s nothing they can do! So who exactly is responsible for finding and fixing the issue – me?!? I’m done with this dealer; trying a different Hyundai dealer on Saturday. Hopefully they can resolve this as I am extremely frustrated and inconvenienced. I haven’t even made my first payment but I can’t drive my car!
September 21st, 2016 at 2:05 pm
I have a 2014 Sonata Hybrid. Over the past 6 months the push button has started to have issues every once in a while. I push the button, the lights come on but the car does not start. I have been stuck at softball, stuck at home trying to get to work, stuck at the store on my lunch break. I have called the dealership each time but after 5-10 minutes it seems to start so the dealership says that there is no way for them to tell what is wrong unless it is actually doing it when they get it. It is so frustrating.
October 9th, 2016 at 11:33 am
So glad I found this blog. I first had the problem of the push button starter not working about a month ago. I have a 2013 Hyundai Tucson with only 17K miles on it. Last night I was at a friend’s house about 20 miles away and I come out in pouring rain and wind and the push button does nothing. The brake pedal seemed to be stuck in the down position. The little “car” light appeared on the dash but the vehicle book was of no help. “See your Hyundai dealer” is useless information on a Saturday night! I waited an hour and a half for the AAA tow truck and of course it started right away. Going to the dealer tomorrow and I am now equipped with information to help.
October 24th, 2016 at 6:39 pm
How is it possible hundai is not doing recall to fix this? Class action suit?
October 27th, 2016 at 9:01 pm
2013 Santa Fe Sport Turbo. “no key present” issue just started. Will be watching here.
October 28th, 2016 at 5:54 pm
Similar problems on my 2013 santa fe sport turbo. 27,000 miles. By the way, 2013 santa fe does NOT have a smartkey slot anywhere.
November 2nd, 2016 at 1:53 pm
I have a 2011 2.0t sonata. I love this car. I thought it was the best car I ever owned until now. I bought two new fobs and had them programed by a locksmith because I had lost my original. everything was fine for three months then the first fob was not being recognized so I started using the other one. I thought, okay the battery is out I will change it later. Everything was good again with the second fob until it started doing the same thing. I called the locksmith thinking the program went out. He asked if the car started with the fob in the fob holder and I said yes. I changed both batteries and still will not be recognized by the vehicle. No problem starting car so far. I just enjoyed not having to pull my key out of my pocket all the time.
November 3rd, 2016 at 10:27 am
2015 Santa Fe….sitting here at dealership with same starting issue. Been dealing with it for last month. Brought it to dealership and I’m told there is nothing wrong with vehicle. Battery tested fine and problem cannot be duplicated. A quick search on my phone and I find this blog. Frustrating as I am queationed on this issue that obviously Hyandai knows they have had for years.
November 22nd, 2016 at 2:01 pm
problems just beginning with push button starting…happened twice that it wouldn’t start but eventually did. Scarey!
December 27th, 2016 at 4:49 pm
I have a 2013 Hyundai Tucson with the keyless entry…..which I have loved until the past 5 weeks. First time I was out running errands and couldn’t lock the doors with the FOB. I was just running in to mail a couple packages so I didn’t think much of it. When I came out the car would not start. Not a light anywhere on the dashboard and radio not working. I tried a couple times, then tried the alternate location in the console. Still nothing. Kept trying and trying. Finally lights blinked on the dash and the next time it started. However it was like the car did an electronic reboot….all radio & Sirus presets were gone. About a week ago same thing…..couldn’t lock the doors, then the car wouldn’t start. This time it only took a couple times to start BUT now my drivers window doesn’t work. Everything else works fine. Now after reading all of these reports I’m more concerned.
December 28th, 2016 at 4:33 pm
2013 SantaFe Sport, having the same push start problems. Happened twice. Both times waited for about an hour, and tried to move my power seat back and forward, and it started working. Not sure about the connection yet, will be speaking with the dealership.
January 2nd, 2017 at 4:12 pm
Just made my first payment on a used 2012 genesis 5.0 r spec. With 41000 miles. Went to start it and engine will not turnover. Same problem as everyone…class action time
January 5th, 2017 at 1:38 pm
My 2014 Elantra gt started having problems around 35k miles when the pedal wouldn’t engage in order to activate the start button so I could start the car.
It went away after a while, but it started happening again (52k) & im beginning to think it could be effected by the cold or by how many things I may have on in the car when I turn it off. Anyway…
I have found the work around – at least on my car. This is what always works for me!
Keep your foot off of the brake. Hit the start button (maybe twice – I just know the dashboard engages). Then put your foot on the brake. Hold down the start button. Wahlah! For some reason this always works on my car.
February 1st, 2017 at 3:57 pm
I have a Tucson 2014, purchased new and currently has less than 10K miles on it. I have a second car I drive to work every day. Today I happened to drove the Tucson park it, got out to walk into the office and noticed how poorly it was parked. I got back into it to re-park and it wouldn’t start. I called the dealer and was told it was the battery….no, because remote start works but once I get into the car the engine shuts off. I get a icon shaped like the truck with a key in the center. I tried looking up the icon in the manual to see what it meant but it isn’t there! After reading all the stories here, I’m starting to regret my decision to purchase this vehicle and it has only happened to me just this one time. The reason for buying a new car was having a “dependable” vehicle when I’m out and about by myself. I’m a single female and I need to know my car will start every time.
February 8th, 2017 at 2:49 pm
I just started having issues with starting my 2013 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid push button start. A few days ago, it took 6 tries before I finally got it started. I thought maybe I wasn’t pushing the brake in the right spot. Dumb since I’ve been starting it for over 3 years without even thinking about it! Then I remembered this had happened once the previous month. Should I make an appointment now or wait and see if it happens again?
February 13th, 2017 at 7:32 pm
Bought a brand new 2016 Genesis Coupe from the dealership. Driving it for two weeks, and the no starts began. Towed it to dealership, suddenly starts fine. So they claim that I’m not doing it right. Mine is a stick shift, so maybe the clutch sensor? Furious that I have to deal with this on a brand new car. This is my second Genesis, not sure I will get a third.
March 6th, 2017 at 5:34 pm
I’m hearing it could be an ‘inhibitor switch”/”range switch” located by the transmission. Estimated to be +/-1hr labour + 120$ part. Anyone else find this to be the case? Since this issue started with me i’ve been carrying a spare battery+cables in the trunk until I find time to visit a shop.
April 27th, 2017 at 12:17 pm
Same problem push the start button nothing happens. I tried pushing the lock/ unlock on fob and then it starts, it not a fix but then it does start Hyundai Volister not very good bad tires, starter fried the battery nothing under warranty. Never again that’s for sure.
May 4th, 2017 at 11:02 am
I have a Sonata Sport 2015 purchased new in August 2015. Starting this year I had a couple of incidents where the car won’t start. I used the remote to lock and unlock the car and some how I was able to start it. 2 weeks ago the push button won’t work at all and the remote trick did not work. I called CAA as I thought the battery was dead. The CAA guy was smart and checked my battery before jumping the car. He told me your battery is good. He got into the car shifted the gear to R and then back to P and the car started. since then I’m using this trick to start the car; I’m taking it to the dealership soon.
By the way, I notice that this only happened to me when I turn on the car after leaving it parked for a long time. i.e in the morning and when I’m heading home after work. The push button works fine when the car is left for short times.
May 9th, 2017 at 10:48 am
My 2013 Sonata Hybrid has issues with the electric start. I took it to the dealer who said all seemed well but, thankfully, when I went to leave the issue resurfaced. They now have the car and I have a rental. We’ll see what they identify but this message board concerns me a great deal.
May 12th, 2017 at 11:53 am
Not 2nd payment yet stranded on busy highway 3 hours no start pusbutton tried everything. Fustrated. This one. Might go back before further issues.
June 2nd, 2017 at 8:31 pm
Hi all I have hyandai sonota 2015 touch system.
The problem is that touch didt full off.only acc and start button.also remote not working can some one help me to find this problem.
July 18th, 2017 at 9:29 pm
I have a 2012 Sonata LE, the first time it said it wasn’t in park. Drove it around, turned off no problem. Now the start / stop engine button stays LIT. Car is completely off, but power to the button will not disengage and it drains the battery. Just got the car back from a full engine replacement in January. Had the starter replaced within 2 weeks after that and now this.
From what I’ve read it doesn’t sound like the brake switch nor the inhibitor switch, car still starts right up after the battery is charged. So if anyone has an idea I’m open to it.
July 25th, 2017 at 7:13 pm
I have a 2012 hyundia genesis 3.8 within the last couple of months i have start up problems in which it loses power in all and i have to wait in between 5 to 15 minutes (last encounter it took 45 mins while getting gas) before i get the car started.. It feels like u disconnecting the battery n everything resets including my radio n satellite settings n on occasionally I have problems of opening the doors with the push button on the door handles n remote… I have taken it for service n they can’t duplicate the problem n it doesn’t show up on their scans.. It’s getting to a boiling point of UUGGHH…
August 2nd, 2017 at 11:46 am
I have taken my 2013 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid in for the push button start failure and after they looked at it I was told they can’t get a computer reading as to what the issue is. I have called them several time since then and they have guided me through several “quick fixes” in order to get it started so I can get to work. I have called the corporate office to no avail except they suggest taking it to another dealership in another city that is about 45 minutes away. I have documented every day that it has not started, which is not almost daily. I have to first start the battery only, then after the electronics are on I pull back on the gear shift and then it will start with the brake depressed and push button. I want to trade it in, but I can’t because it won’t start.
August 30th, 2017 at 10:23 am
A couple options.. 1) put the car in N and then back in P and try 2) insert the key fab into the center console space you will find on the side facing the hood 3) call the dealership because there were some defective push to start installed into the 2013 Sonatas. My dealership is fixing it at no charge this week. ALSO!!! apparently there are 2 recalls on the Sonata so check yours out. One is in the engine and the other is with the seat belts.
September 19th, 2017 at 11:57 am
I own a 2012 Hyundai Sonata LE turbo purchased new. The past month I started having thenstarting issue mentioned. It doesn’t matter if my car sits 2 min or 2 days, starting is intermittent. My husband already fixed the brake switch and inhibitor. I have tried putting the key fob in the spot in the arm rest, doesn’t work. I have tried moving the gear shift to N. I haven’t had time to bring it in to the dealship, so my husband purchased an automatic starter for me to jump the car when it doesn’t start (which is sometimes 2 times a day). If I try to start it more than once I have to get jumped by another car. The battery was replaced a fewweeks ago. The car has all sorts of electrical problems, the lights go out when I have the turn signal engaged to make a left hand turn, sometimes it refuses to go in gear and I have to restart it (hopefully it starts), backup camera doesn’t always engage, and a few times it started 10-20 seconds after I pushed the push to start button. I will never buy another Hyundai. I spent almost $400 fixing a steering wheel problem I read online a lot of others had, the need to start recalling these issues.
September 27th, 2017 at 9:05 pm
2010 hyundai genesis coupe cranks fine for a week then all of sudden nothing won’t start.. Replace battery in remote for new battery still nothing..so tired going through this..I’m been going through this for 6 months or month hyundai dealership has still yet to find problem..I don’t have time or money for this..wanted to get newer on but I doubt will ever get another hyundai
October 20th, 2017 at 4:51 pm
2011 Hyundai Sonata Limited could not start for me this morning for work. Had started fix at the dealer for $750. It has been running great for a year and a half. Same issue happened again. I tried are the tricks to get car started but nothing worked. A concerned husband and father does not want my family stranded somewhere. A car should be reliable and not having to worry if my car will start or not. Still waiting for the car to get fixed lets just hope it will be permanently fixed.
October 26th, 2017 at 2:07 pm
2015 Sonata bought in 2014 March I think… Not a single problem untill yesterday. Car would not start in morning. worked fine the previous night at 10PM.. Car cranks with a remote start but not with the push button.. either way car does not start..
its at the dealer and I hope the after market remote start doesnt get blamed for this. Because that remote start was there since the 1st month I had the car.
October 30th, 2017 at 7:48 pm
This just started happening today to my 2012 Genesis sedan. Like everyone else says, lights come on, then starts clicking and brake pedal gets stiff. As soon as i jump start it with cables it turns on, but after a while it stops turning on again. Hyundai needs to recall these vehicles, unfortunately my warranty already expired.
November 30th, 2017 at 2:31 pm
HAVE A 2011 SONATA LTD WHICH HAS HAD 14 RECALLS ON IT SO FAR. DOES THIS CONSTITUTE A “LEMON.”
December 9th, 2017 at 12:26 am
2013 genisis sedan car wont recognize the keyless remote FOB used the emergency key to get in and key fob to press the starter button . Some months ago my battery died and I jumped it and it started . I like the car and wonder if Hyundai will adress these issues my car only has 29 thousand miles and its alarming to have these issues ..
December 15th, 2017 at 8:03 am
I have 2013 Genesis, with in the last couple of months I was having some issues with starting the car. I had to take my key out of my pocket and place it on the push start button. Now check this out, it would not start until I took my foot off the brakes. That is the total opposite of what it suppose to do. My wife key was working just fine until today. She got ready for work and the car would not start . It had a clicking sound. I tried to jump it and nothing happened. When I got to work I looked up this problem and discovered that this is something rather common with Hyundai. This appears to be a manufacture problem, not a consumer’s problem.
December 17th, 2017 at 12:54 pm
My 2015 Sonata Hybrid would not start when pushing button (FOB not Recognized). Drove my Honda to church and looked this p when we got home. Since others said it was intermittent I went out in the garage and pushed the FOB button to open trunk and it worked. I then tried all FOB buttons and they worked. Got back in car and it started….hopefully it won’t leave me stranded somewhere. If others have problems and post please post what worked. thanks
December 19th, 2017 at 8:15 am
I️ own a 2016 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport purchased new. Previously owned, a purchased new 2008 Hyundai Santa Fe Limited, that had 96,000 plus miles until purchasing the 2016.
Loved the 2008 beginning to really dislike/hate the 2016.
The panoramic sunroof rattles over slight imperfections in the various roadways. I️ travel in Northern VA. Had Chantilly Hyundai where the 2016 iwas purchased, lubricate the sunroof, not the solution to solving the rattles. The headliner may be the issue but of course the techs can’t replicate the problem and I️ don’t have any loose items moving around while I’m driving. And now after the 18,000 mile service, my POS Santa Fe is having a sluggish start when pushing the start button while fully depressing the brake pedal.
Hoping on my 12-20-2017 dealership visit both problems can be solved.
Love the Hyundai Warranty but hate the Hyundai product!
January 2nd, 2018 at 10:47 pm
My 2012 Sonata SL with turbo etc has 11,000 miles. I had a recall problem a year ago and all was fine but I needed a new battery (had 9000 miles). Dealer said not using my car enough and it sitting in the cold etc. Told him my car is in the garage of our Co-op. He says “still cold” I advise him it’s heated. He says not using car enough can cause not starting. I buy new battery. Now I have 11,000 miles and my auto key is a problem…..freezing in NY and my car would not start when I came from store (left unlocked due to a problem recently). Try starting the car & it says “No key detected” several times…..walked home & left car in lot. A retired friend who owned a body shop and is good at fixing problems but not familiar with the new systems, said…his friend unscrewed disconnected a part (?) in the engine, waited a few minutes, reconnected it and everything worked. I’m 71 n not great with computers but have learned that when I reboot/power off and restart problems are often fixed. He says these button operated cars are like a computer. I’ll have him look at my engine, show me the part to disconnect/reconnect etc as it makes sense.
Dealerships are privately owned and mechanical geniuses are not hired…good BS sales people are. My other car my son uses is a Honda Accord. Should have stuck with them. I do love the Sonata if only it were reliable & dealerships had trained mechanics.
January 24th, 2018 at 5:41 pm
I have a 2011 Sonata Limited 2.0 Turbo.
I started to have problems 1st with keyless entry not working, then push button start not working. Took to dealer and was told Smart Key module needs to be replaced. Cost $946.27 for replacement! Ouch!!! I ordered my part online and hopefully saving $250.00. I hope this is the fix! I love my car and really don’t want to buy another vehicle at this time.
January 26th, 2018 at 9:43 pm
2016 Hyundai Elantra just started doing same thing , will not start I had AAA boost it off and it started. Drove around about 20 min. got home turned it off and I am back at square one, will not start. I am going to take it to dealer in morning.
February 6th, 2018 at 11:48 am
2018. Hyundai Santa Fa Sport. Bought from Carbone Hyundai Yorkville, New York, brand new.
We traded in our GMV TERRAIN for This Hyundai. We have owned 2 Hyundai’s, 2003 Santa Fa and a 2007 Santa Fa both with not one problem.
We have traveled to Florida and all along our route not one problem. On Feb 5, w018 stopped at a restaurant for dinner. Returning to our Santa Da with the key fab in the vehicle we tried to start with the push button, nothing. We tried again 3 times still no start. We called Road Sude Assists and had our vehicle towed to a local Hyundai dealer. The vehicle is in the repair shop?
February 6th, 2018 at 4:15 pm
@Douglas–Make sure you stay on top of the days the car is out of service and the number of times it is back to the repair shop for the same issue. If the car is in 4x for the same issue, or 30 days out of service, you may have a claim under New York Lemon Law. Feel free to call us at 1800 536 6652 to discuss your rights.
February 9th, 2018 at 9:04 pm
I currently own a 2014 Hyundai Elantra Limited that was purchased in August of 2014. I never had any issues with my vehicle until May 2017 when I noticed that my car would not start. I depressed the brake and pushed the button but nothing happened. I continued to press on the button and keep my foot depressed when the A/C, navigation system and radio came on. I have a push button for my starter. This problem had never occurred before so I attempted to start it for about 10 more minutes and decided that it wasn’t going to start. I contacted Hyundai Roadside Assistance and explained that my car would not start. The wait time for the tow company to assist was approximately 2 hours. When the tow truck finally arrived, he jumped started my car and it immediately started. He explained that it was probably a battery issue. I took my car to Auto Zone on the same day to have the battery tested and they said that the battery was fine. I assumed it was just a minor error and did not investigate further until it happened again on June 1st, 2017. Since then the issues has occurred intermittently for the past year. I have taken it to the dealership twice now and they stated that since they can’t replicate the problem there is nothing they can do. I’m not sure what to do beyond this point.
February 12th, 2018 at 3:11 am
i have a 2011 huyndi sonata 2.4 executive. dash displays ” no key detected” or ” insert key” i am not sure if smartkey is faulty since there is no ” low battery” indicator on dash board.
March 9th, 2018 at 12:35 am
I have a 2015 hybrid sonata 20000 miles bought 5 months ago ran great September October November in December it got down in 30s we walked around town wit key in pocket and car would not start. Finally started. Now in March starting again. The kicker I warmed the keys both of them by stove and both will start the car I drove around parking lot turned car off they were still warm so started back up went inside cool keys wouldn’t start warmed them again started right up did this three times same thing
May 6th, 2018 at 4:30 pm
I have a hyundai tucson model 2011 my problem l have 2 keys with 4 bottons the other 1 totally not puctioning and my spare key the battery only 1 month to use how you can help me
June 5th, 2018 at 9:55 am
2012 Hyundai Sonata my push start is not working this is the 3 time in the past week, with this being the worst, now I’m just reading the reviews smh, checking for recalls
July 21st, 2018 at 8:54 pm
I had the same problem.
Hello From the Dominican Republic. I have a Hyundai Sonata 2011 Limited. Since a month ago my car stopped detecting my fob key. Couldn’t start my car without inserting the key inside the console, doors and trunk buttons were not responding either. What was kind of weird was that I still able to open and close the doors using the remote.
Sometimes in the early morning when I was ready to head to my job my car could detect the key and start the engine, but it was only one shot. For the rest of the day I had to insert the key in the console in order to start the car. I changed the fob’s battery about 4 times I did not work at all. I took the car to the dealer to buy and program a new fob key, and they did so. They programmed a new key and the same problem was still happening, only detecting the key when it was inside the console.
Days later, I took the car to dealer again to see if sensors and antennas were fine. They disassembled the car and tested each antenna and all of them were just fine. At that point I was frustrated and worrying about the car’s main computer. The dealer’s technicians said that the fuse box inside the car was damaged and I had to buy a new one.
Well, it happens that today when I wanted to head to my job the car’s battery was dead. I bought a brand new LHT battery and brought the store’s technician to my house to check my car’s energy generation. Generation was good and we installed the new car’s battery and BOOOOOOOM KEY DETECTED! I tested the door buttons and they are working great. I turned on and off the car about 6 o 7 times today and key was detected 100%.
So, go to the store and test a brand new battery for your vehicle. If key is detected buy the battery.
August 14th, 2018 at 2:38 am
I have had my 2013 Veloster for 5 weeks now. I don’t have a problem with it starting with the push button start.I am having issues with it not shutting the engine off when I go somewhere.It takes about 6 minutes of trying different things and push it again and it shuts off. Does anyone know,What this could be?
August 22nd, 2018 at 9:08 pm
2015 Genesis won’t start with the push button intermittently. 27,000 miles and it sometimes just won’t start. Dealer doesn’t have a clue. Bad car never again will I own or recommend a Hyundia.
September 7th, 2018 at 2:04 am
2012 Hyundai Sonata Bought this car used from Hyundai dealer – Certified pre-owned 35k miles at the time. In the past 2 years it has been to the dealer for this same push button start button issue 4 times. I will have to go back and check the service records, but I believe they replaced the brake switch only once, 3 other times they told me it was the starter and charged me to replace the starter, just out of parts warranty. This time it has been less than two months. Broke down over an hour away and my local dealer wants me to have it towed there rather than the closer dealer. Every time I tell them and can’t be the starter but they insist it is. Clearly it is NOT has the problem persist. Seems it is intermittent problem so rather that “troubleshooting” they just are replacing the starter. Frustrated would be an under statement.
September 20th, 2018 at 6:03 am
we have a 2015 Santa Fe and it will randomly not start car completely dead,, they replaced battery a year ago, I put on a charger for 1/2 hr and car started right up, and has not been a problem for several days but we are nervous to drive it, It can not be a dead battery or it would have lost charge again by now, I was prepared to get a new one , its out of warranty, but now I am not sure seams like a short or malfunction on the electrical not battery, maybe this pedal sensor, I have left messages for dealer 2 days in a row not a return call yet form service dept., I’m sure they know the issue,, very annoying
October 9th, 2018 at 3:23 pm
I just had the same problem with my manual 2010 Genesis Coupe. After reading about the clutch sensor (or brake sensor in automatics) I took a look under the dash to check the sensor. A small plastic disc that mounts into the arm of the clutch and depresses the clutch switch had broken apart. After holding a piece of it in place, where it would have been mounted, depressing my clutch, and hitting the START button, my car started. Maybe that’s not the solution to everyone’s problem, but figuring that out sure as hell saved me a ton of cash in towing and repair expenses.
October 12th, 2018 at 8:48 am
My car Sonata 2012 2.0 turbo wont start on cold weather under 60F. The FOB was detected but the push button did not work. no radio and lights. I have to try to start button several times. After average 10 minutes it does work. But when i try to turn off the car the push button does not work and after about 5 times it finally works. Any idea?
October 14th, 2018 at 9:29 am
2014 hyundai elentra limited, will not start, had oil and filter changed and tires rotated yesterday, 10-13-2018, got home and had to go to store car would not start. brake pedal very hard to push, pushed start button several times all i get is a click—click—click—click, this goes on for about 15 seconds then nothing, will not recognize key fob. have tried all tricks i have read, nothing works, just click—click—click. tried jump starting, did not help.dont know what to try any help will be appreciated
October 15th, 2018 at 2:48 pm
I have a 2017 Hyundai Elantra that we bought about 18 months ago, brand new. Friday after work, I went to get gas and the car wouldn’t start so I shut it off and waited for a few minutes. I went to start it again and the brake was tight when I pushed it (I have the keyless start) but it did start. I didn’t think anything of it – drove him as normal. Saturday afternoon, I went to leave and my car wouldn’t start. So I waited again and nothing. I called the dealer and they said it sounds like a dead battery – I had probably left a light on. Not likely but I guess its possible. My neighbor came over and jumped my battery – car started. the dealer was already closed so I figured I would make an appointment when I got to work today. I go out to start my car this morning – it won’t start again. everything else works – radio, windows, lights, etc. I call Hyundai Roadside assistance and he comes out, attempts to jump it and says after two attempts that it’s my starter. he did get it started, told me to go to my mechanic. I took it to the dealer. after sitting there for over 2 hours, they attempted to start it over 20x and it worked every time. They told me that the battery is fine and if it happens again, to not have it jumped, to have it towed to the dealership so they can look at it as is. I’m going to be very upset if this results in a costly repair on a car that is less than 2 years old. Seems this is a common issue.
December 2nd, 2018 at 4:14 pm
I have a 2013 Hyundai Santa fe and mine is saying no key detected and won’t let me start my car its happened 4 times already smh this is so frustrating!!!!!!
December 17th, 2018 at 8:41 pm
Have a push button start problem. When putting foot on the break pedal and then pushing the start button car won’t stop.when this happens the break pedal is hard to push
January 7th, 2019 at 12:12 pm
I purchased a 2016 brand new Elantra for my son and we have the same issue getting the car to start from the push button. This has been an ongoing problem for a long time…and the dealership tells me THEY NEVER HEARD IF THE PROBLEM. It is at the dealership right now. I think I’m going to pursue the lemon law route and see what, if anything, can be done. I purchased this Limited edition car with cash..and purchased the platinum warranty. Thank goodness I just purchased a new 2019 Subaru for me. Hopefully it won’t have as many issues.
January 12th, 2019 at 7:00 pm
2013 Genesis Coupe 3.8 MT Track with 80k miles has been flawless until last month when driver side push button doorlock stopped working. FOB worked. About a week later, the push button start button and FOB no longer worked. Start Button was replaced at the dealer for $293 and worked well for a week. Repeated pressing on the start button will ultimately start the car. Not looking forward to repeating the stories of unsuccessful “repairs” I have been reading . I have a suspicion that the door handle button is somehow related to the problem as just before the start button stopped working, the door handle button worked once, but then did not. After that, the start button quit…
January 16th, 2019 at 2:27 pm
I have a 2018 Sonata with the same issue. My dealership also stated that they have never heard of the problem before. I had to laugh because you can google it and 100 blogs come up. I referenced this article and many more with my service writer. I am currently waiting on feedback from them on what solution they are going to provide. Next time it happens i am going to record it as mine normally happens on first start of the day and when it is 32 degrees outside. Flashing lights on dashboard and nothing else. My battery and starter are both good which i knew they were. Will not start in Park or Neutral.
February 18th, 2019 at 2:34 pm
I have a 2013 Hyundai Elantra bought new from a dealership. It has less than 12,000 miles. In the past week it is not starting with the Smart Key. It is worrisome that I could get stranded. The batteries have been changed in both Smart Keys but to no avail. From the other comments it seems this is a problem that should be addressed by Hyundai. I had a Sonata prior for about 8 years and had few problems.
February 24th, 2019 at 8:53 am
Hyundai denies all problems with their vehicles, some how they have to be held accountable
March 23rd, 2019 at 1:49 pm
I bought a fully loaded beautiful used 2012 Hyundai Genesis 3 years ago. Not 1 problem until now. The darn thing wouldn’t start. It turns over but it won’t start at times. Will I be able to trade it in, does anyone know? I see I am not the only one with the problem and seeing as I have no warranty I have no choice but to get rid of it. I cannot believe with this many problems Hyundai will not fix the problem for free.
March 29th, 2019 at 10:08 am
2012 Elantra 4 days ago started not starting first thing in the morning until after pushing button several times, the rest of the day it would start on first try. Sometimes it would make a small sound when trying to start it then stop. Has a new battery and does not act like a battery problem.
April 2nd, 2019 at 12:54 pm
Purchased 2017 Hyundai Elantra in July 2017. Have approx. 22,000 miles on it and in the last 3 weeks I go to get in my car and I can’t get in using the press button or fob. I have to remove key from fob to get in to car. When I try to start car, it won’t start. I can see the dashboard come on, but doesn’t start. Had it towed to dealership – told they couldn’t find anything – told me I must have left a light on. NOT!!!. Approximately 3 weeks later, the same scenario – no start. I had it jumped, it started. I drove the car in to the dealership and after 3 1/2 hours later told again, they couldn’t find anything. The car has been fine for almost a week. Waiting to see the next time it doesn’t start. Very frustrated. What is a person supposed to do if they continue to say they can’t find anything wrong? Does that mean I get stuck with a car that can leave me stranded at any time, and a car that I’m still paying on? It’s only been about 18 months old.
April 3rd, 2019 at 3:22 pm
@Betty: Hold on to all repair records. If and when they figure it out, call us at 800 536 6652 and we may be able to help. Keep pushing them to find a fix!
May 6th, 2019 at 1:38 pm
I have the same issue with the push button starter on my 2012 Elantra. I learned that if I put my foot on the brake, push the button one time, then push and hold the button down for approximately 12 seconds, the car starts. Before I realized I could do this, I went through all the normal fixes. 1. new battery 2. had the alternator checked 3. Service man tells me something is draining the battery but cannot find out what. No one could help. My husband started messing with it and learned the trick to getting the car to crank. Still worried I will be stranded somewhere before we find out the real reason this car is messed up.
May 26th, 2019 at 4:57 pm
2011 Hyundai Sonata push start will not start. Been dealing with this a year and a half now. 🙁
June 23rd, 2019 at 7:08 pm
My 2012 Sonata equipped with push button start has 33000 miles. For the first time today I tried starting the car after completing two trips. I pressed the brake pedal pushed starter button and heard a faint sound similar to a dead battery. I called AAA the technician tested the battery which was good, he even tried boosting to give extra power but the car wouldn’t start. I noticed that as we attempted to start the car the engine cooling fan came on. I also wasn’t able to lock the door with the door switch. I was only able to lock the door
with the key inside the FOB.
July 29th, 2019 at 9:05 pm
I have a 2014 Sonata Limited that is in beautiful condition however for the past few months I have been dealing with the “push button start” issue. Today for the first time I was unable to cajole it into working. I had a new battery installed a couple of months ago and all other systems work. I just made an appointment today for the ECU recall. I hope I don’t have to wait two weeks to be able to use my car.
July 30th, 2019 at 2:27 pm
I am scared for my 18 year old brand new driver do to push to start problems on her 2013 Hyundai Elantra GT. It sounds like there are a lot of problems regarding the break not working to get the push to start to work.
The dealer is not acknowledging the sensor in the brake pad as the issue. This was replaced by the previous owner once before. I feel they are scamming her for money. The car starts sometimes when you override the system by depressing the push to start button without the brake for 30 seconds. She is having to spend money that she has saved for her books for her first year in college on something that should be covered by Hyundai.
September 7th, 2019 at 2:12 pm
Our 2013 Elantra is having the same issue. It has been at the dealer all summer. They fixed all recalls and told us it was fixed. It happened two days later. We took it back, and since they can’t replicate it and no codes appear, they are unable to do anything with it. They did finally admit that they have another vehicle with the same issue. Any suggestions on what we can do?
September 11th, 2019 at 9:16 pm
I have a 2012 Elantra , with 74,000 miles, the push button start is clicking and car will not start.Battery is charged up. The Elantra is a Lemon car, and they know it. My mechanic cannot fix the problem. I’m calling the dealership for an answer to this problem, next I’m calling my lawyer. Seems like a lot of people are having the same problem with the push button start and Hyundai won’t fix this major problem.
September 19th, 2019 at 4:50 pm
9/19-19
Ditto all of the above. They can have the push button start. I own a 2012 Elantra and have had the same issues. It is not the dealer who has the issue, it’s the manufacturer. There should be a recall.
September 21st, 2019 at 3:32 pm
Faye King
I FEEL A RECALL ON THE BRAKE SENSOR NEEDS TO BE ADDRESSED. MY PUSH BUTTON ON MY 2013 HYUNDAI ELANTRA LTD IS HAVING ALL THE SAME ISSUES THE OTHER 121 AND MORE PEOPLE HAVE COMPLAINED ABOUT. NO MORE HYUNDAI’S FOR ME, UNLESS THEY DO A RECALL CAUSE I LIKE MY CAR.
September 24th, 2019 at 8:31 am
I have this issue as well with a 2011 Sonata 2.0T. Intermittently when I push the brake the push button won’t start. This has been happening for a few years now. I used the override trick where you hold the brake pedal and the button for 20 seconds to start the car but that no longer seems to be working as well.
I’ve brought to the dealer to diagnose and no results. The last time I brought it in they replaced the battery terminals and put a new battery in the key fob and called it fixed. It happened again the next day. To me, it only happens on cold starts…so far. Considering bringing it in again because its getting more frustraing.
September 25th, 2019 at 12:23 am
My Hyundai 2014 has left me in tears more than once.i have no one to rescue me and here’s the thing ,if I can’t get to work,I can’t make the car payment!It’s funny how I’m reading this and now it makes perfect sense, as to why sometimes I put my foot on the break and it feels like a concrete block,and other times it feels like it’s supposed to, when you apply your foot,I must of tried 12 times to start it and it keeps saying that the key is not detected, then I open my door to get out and tried once more and it starts.i just went in debt to buy this car and was really excited to have a beautiful Hyundai ,huh,but beautiful will get me nowhere fast!I’m no longer happy,proud,or even wanting to drive the car.the truth is I get sick to my stomach knowing I have to go anywhere.dealership all of a sudden hates to see me comming,since it’s been worked on twice now,and now I have to pay a deductible on the work ,well it’s only been 3 mts,and thanks for telling me that when you gave me a 12000 mile warranty ! I thought Hyundai was such a great car,,well they are no help either! RECALL THE PUSH START!
November 7th, 2019 at 8:32 am
I have a Hyundai Tucson 2013 Limited, purchased brand new at the official dealer in Guatemala. 0km- It stranded me at 2 months of use. it didn’t started and i have to tow. they took 1 month to check the car, and then they returned to it to me without telling me what war wrong, but working.
I had no problem, until now, 7 years after. The remote control was not being recogniced from outside ocassionaly. Then, it didn´t work at all, from outside. no open, no close, no back door, no alarm.
the start key doesn´t detect the remote control, nor the original or the replacement. I have to start the car using the alternate key repository inside the arm rest.
I like my car very much, but i am considering not to buy Hyundai anymore.
January 28th, 2020 at 3:25 pm
My key fob just abruptly quit working. We have only had the car, a 2019 bought as new, a few weeks. This is extremely frustrating and only adds to a myriad of problems we are going through right now. I thought Hyundai was dependable. Am I wrong after I have read through some of the problems above?
February 7th, 2020 at 11:58 am
@Dawna: If the problems continue, call us at 800 536 6652 to discuss your rights.
February 18th, 2020 at 12:25 pm
This just happened to my wife yesterday February 17, 2020. She came back from the supermarket, unloaded the groceries from the 2015 Hyundai Santa Fe, and when she had to go back out, it didn’t start. I attempted to start it. Pressed the Start button, the car started going through a systems check, headlights flickering, A/C came on but not the vehicle. The start button displayed the vehicle was on but it did not crank. I tried several times to start it but the same thing kept happening. Flickering lights, A/C on and Systems Check. I had no problems with the start button until the dealership replaced my brakes about 2 weeks ago. Let’s see what they have to say.
September 11th, 2020 at 6:28 pm
Just bought a 2020 Hyundai Sonata about 2 Weeks ago and I can’t seem to get the car to start by pushing the remote. It seems to happen in the morning. As I’m stepping out of my house, I push the door lock button then the start and it doesn’t work. It sounds like it wants to start, but it doesn’t. When I do it a second time, the exact same way, then it starts. It’ll never work the first time. Why is that?
September 17th, 2020 at 11:29 am
Bought my 2014 Sonata in 2016. Worked great until this past spring. My car was not detecting the fob. Locking/unlocking doors and push to start worked only intermittently. It was a slow progress. Happened one time, then worked fine for a couple weeks. Then stopped working a couple times, but slowly made the change of working mostly to not working.
Read a couple different fixes.
Changed batteries in fobs.
Checked the fuses, they were good, but replaced them anyway. Nothing changed.
Replaced car battery even though mine was fine. About a week after the car battery replacement, EVERYTHING worked 100%….. for about 2 months… now it has started back to not recognizing the key.
Locks and unlocks about 30% of the time.
Push to start works about 5% of the time.
(Luckily, still starts when fob is plugged into console)
Weird thing is, even though the car says key not detected, it is to a point, because their is an annoying long beep that happens when my keys are inside the car.
If I hold the fob outside the window it stops, bring the fob back inside, it starts beeping again. But when I push to start it tells me no key is detected.
First time I brought to the dealer, it would not detect my fob ONCE for a solid 9 days. Bring it to the dealership, it started up right away. They said without the
Issue present, they couldn’t do anything……
took my car and that same night it started acting up again. Brought it back 2 days later. “Luckily” it was acting up that time.
They had it for 3 days. Said they didn’t know what the problem was, there were no codes detected, but noticed a pin on my wiring harness was broke. Suggested replacing whole harness for $2500, but no guarantee that was the problem. OR finding someone to do a pin repair.
I’m not a mechanic not an electrical engineer, but a broken pin to me didn’t seem to be the issue, since it still sometimes worked.
Got the pin replaced, and still nothing.
Had two different shops look at it and called an auto key guy who works with electrical, fobs, push starts, etc.
All 3 suggested it MIGHT be the RF receiver. All of them can replace it, but stated they could not program it because Hyundai had a special machine that only works with their cars. Not one of these shops feel the need to drop thousands of dollars on a machine that is manufacturer Specific. They said “it’s a Hyundai thing”
September 24th, 2020 at 6:17 am
I bought my 2011 Sonata used with pretty high miles 2 years ago. It’s my work car. It has failed to start a few times in the past but I would just replace the battery in the fob. Lately, it has stranded me twice now in the last 2 weeks. On Tuesday this week, it happened in a very bad neighborhood!! I tried to put the fob in the “secret bypass spot” but it didn’t work. I just sat there for a few minutes and then it miraculously started right up. I finished my deliveries but didn’t turn the dang thing off for 3 hours because I was scared it would happen again. Now I can’t trust to drive it. I can’t afford to take it to a dealership either.
Another thing it does is when you try to turn it off, the engine shuts off but the accessories stay on. I have to start it up again, put it in gear, put it back into park, and push the button again. Sometimes I have to do this 3-4 times before the accessories turn off. I love the look of the car but I’m starting to regret the purchase.
October 28th, 2020 at 11:58 pm
I have 2014 Elantra limited, I am having intermittent starting problem. I have used key to lock/unlock the door then the car starts and problem disappears for a while. I will try to contact dealer to get their opinion.
October 28th, 2020 at 11:59 pm
I have 2014 Elantra limited, I am having intermittent starting problem. I have used key to lock/unlock the door then the car starts and problem disappears for a while.
December 7th, 2020 at 11:57 pm
I have a 2018 Hyundai kona and it has been working fine until the last few months when I got in to go somewhere. pushed the pedal and hit the button and it just clicked. I did it over and over again then it started. I thought it was my fob so I went in and got the other one. Went out shopping then got back in the car and click. Everything came on just the car wouldn’t start. Im not sure why this just started happening all of a sudden though. Everything else works perfectly
April 21st, 2021 at 3:25 pm
I’m reading all these comments about the push button not working and the brake pedal hard to depress. I have a 2017 Elantra that I just bought in January. This issue has just started with my car. I push the brake and hit the start button, the car won’t start. I do this numerous times and still nothing. I changed the key fob batteries and had my car battery checked. Both are fine. My radio and the panel all come on as well as the lights but the car won’t start. Then all of a sudden, I’ll try again, and boom! It starts. I too called the dealership and they told me that they’ve not heard of anything like this happening! I have an appointment next month to see if they can figure it out. Crossing my fingers I don’t get stranded anywhere.
June 5th, 2021 at 8:07 pm
I have a 2015 Hyundai Sonata and the push start is acting up. Everything comes on just as everyone said. But will not crank up. This been going on a while, why the hell they still making cars and haven’t fixed this.. Being stranded not cool!! It’s 2021!!!!!This issue dates back to 2012
June 5th, 2021 at 8:08 pm
I have a 2015 Hyundai Sonata and the push start is acting up. Everything comes on just as everyone said. But will not crank up. This been going on a while, why the hell they still making cars and haven’t fixed this.. Being stranded not cool!! It’s 2021!!!!!This issue dates back to 2012.
August 23rd, 2021 at 5:48 am
Like many others I have been having the same issues. I have a 2009 Hyundai Genesis. The problem started if extremely intermittent and would only take 1-2 attempts to get started although that’s still unacceptable it was tolerable. It got to a point where it would take me 20-30 minutes to get the car started, stranded sometimes in scorching hot weather desperate to get my car to start so I can get some AC and go home. The whole bypass of holding the button for 30 seconds didn’t work and every time I thought I found out how to get it to start I found next time that I was wrong. I’ve replaced the battery. I’ve tried starting from neutral, shifting from neutral back into drive, I’ve tried cycling the button. I’ve tried everything I’ve seen online along with my own theories of it being a security issue with the key. Needless to say nothing worked. I would get ACC power but no run. Eventually I decided to leave it at the dealership for a week since the issue got so bad there was no way that over a weeks time they could say it wouldn’t duplicate. They called me and said they got it to duplicate and that it was the starter. I expressed my concern that I’ve seen post that people have replaced the starter and still had the issue and they said it likely wasn’t a Hyundai part and if I still had issues they’d trouble shoot again and fix at no charge. The job was $1,079 and the car has been doing fine since. It even sounds different when it turns over. A stronger more powerful turnover sound. So fingers crossed. I usually don’t do public post this long but I understand the frustration because I was ready to trade the car in but the used car market pricing is really high and they weren’t offering much for trade in and I figured I’d rather have no car payment anyway. So I hope this helps someone
November 13th, 2021 at 10:34 am
My 2019 Tucson intermittently won’t start as well, has no dashboard lights or any electrical functions. I’m at the dealer now and he says he’s never had anyone with trouble in 6 years. I’m going to the other local dealer next time. Where do you put the key fob to unlock it? One salesman said it may be an anti theft feature if I turn the steering wheel to the left as I’m getting in or out and locks up the car, but without a key I can’t use their method to unlock it. Battery is good, key fobs good. I got it jumped last week and that cleared it. Help.