'That's Why They're Giving Longer Warranties:' Mechanic Runs Diagnostics on 2023 Hyundai. Then He Gets the 'Death Code'

Motor 1

2 days ago

A viral TikTok clip is once again stirring debate over Hyundai's engine reliability. The problem this time is with a 2023 model and a so-called 'death code' that recommends immediate engine replacement.
The clip from Colorado-based Accurate Automotive (@accurateautoinc), which has been viewed more than 1.4 million times, doesn't hold back in presenting a maintenance technician's thoughts on Hyundai's long-running engine problems with a number of its vehicles.
'Their engines are terrible, unfortunately. That's also part of the reason why they're giving longer warranties on their engines,' the tech said when asked if Hyundai engines are still problematic in 2025.
Details About Hyundai Engine Problems
Hyundai and its corporate cousin, Kia, have spent the better part of the last decade grappling with
engine-related problems
across millions of vehicles, many of which are centered on their 2.0L and 2.4L Theta II GDI engines. These issues first came into widespread public view in 2015, when both brands
recalled
hundreds of thousands of vehicles due to premature engine bearing wear that could cause stalling or fires.
The problems didn't stop there. In 2019, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) launched an
investigation
into whether automakers had acted promptly enough on known defects, particularly after a growing number of vehicle fires not associated with crashes were reported. The probe ultimately led to Hyundai and Kia paying a combined $210 million in
civil penalties
, one of the most significant enforcement actions in NHTSA history.
The heart of the issue lies in engine debris and wear inside the Theta II's
rotating assembly
. Defects in the manufacturing process could restrict oil flow to critical components, such as connecting rod bearings, increasing the risk of a seized engine or fire.
In response, Hyundai began installing a
Knock Sensor Detection System
in affected vehicles. The system is designed to detect early signs of bearing wear and alert drivers before a failure occurs. When triggered, the sensor often sends what the mechanic in the TikTok clip refers to as a 'death code,' recommending immediate engine replacement.
Hyundai also
significantly expanded
its powertrain warranty coverage for affected vehicles and introduced extended warranties for replacement engines, aiming to restore consumer trust and provide coverage for known defects.
Are Engines Still Failing in 2025?
While Hyundai has taken significant steps to address its engine troubles, persistent complaints suggest that the problem hasn't entirely gone away, at least not in the eyes of mechanics and some owners.
In the TikTok video, the technician references a 2023 Hyundai vehicle that triggered a knock sensor code serious enough to require a new engine. That's notable, given that most of the widely reported engine defects were thought to affect vehicles built before 2022.
However, there are still
active recalls
involving Hyundai vehicles as recently as 2023 and 2024. For instance, in October 2023, Hyundai
recalled
over 3 million vehicles in the US for potential fire risks stemming from brake fluid leaks, faulty anti-lock braking system (ABS) modules, and electrical short circuits, many of which were unrelated to the earlier Theta engine issues but contributed to the company's continued reputation struggles.
Still, it's worth noting that newer Hyundai models use updated engine platforms such as the
Smartstream
G2.5 and G1.6 T-GDi, which have not yet been subject to widespread recalls or confirmed systemic defects.
Tips For Hyundai Owners and Buyers
If you drive a Hyundai or are considering buying one, the TikTok chatter may sound alarming. However, it's essential to distinguish between internet buzz and practical steps you can take. Many Hyundai vehicles are running smoothly well past the 100,000-mile mark, and the company has implemented several programs to protect owners when issues do arise.
Here's what you need to know:
Check Your VIN for Recalls:
The easiest way to find out if your car is affected by an open recall is to enter your Vehicle Identification Number on the
NHTSA recall lookup tool
.
Hyundai also offers its own
recall lookup page
.
Recalls are typically performed free of charge at a certified dealership, and some campaigns may even include towing and rental assistance.
Pay Attention to Warning Lights:
In vehicles equipped with the Knock Sensor Detection System—especially those with Theta II engines—a check engine light, combined with a
knock sensor code
(often described as a P1326 fault), may indicate pre-detonation or internal wear.
If this happens, don't ignore it. According to Hyundai's
recall materials
, continued driving may increase the risk of engine damage. In many cases, dealers
will perform
a bearing clearance test and replace the engine if needed, often under warranty.
Warranty Coverage May Apply:
For affected vehicles, Hyundai extended its
powertrain warranty
to 10 years/120,000 miles, even for second owners in some cases. These extensions were part of both recall actions and class-action settlements.
Hyundai also has a
Lifetime Warranty Registration Program
for some vehicles with replaced engines. Coverage varies by model year and campaign, so it's best to contact your dealership with your vehicle's VIN or review the documentation related to recall campaigns.
Motor1
reached out to Accurate Automotive via direct message.
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