2008 model year · 0+ owner reports · Updated April 2026
According to Au7o's analysis of 0+ owner reports, the 2008 Hyundai Azera has 5 documented known issues, with 1 rated critical. The most serious is Timing Chain Tensioner Failure (3.3L/3.8L Lambda) ($800-$2,500 repair). Across all issues, repair costs range from $100 to $3,000. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.
On the 2006-2011 Hyundai Azera, the 3.3L and 3.8L Lambda V6 engines in the Azera use timing chains with hydraulic tensioners that can fail due to oil pressure loss or internal wear. The tensioner relies on consistent oil pressure to maintain chain tension, and low oil levels or degraded oil can cause the tensioner to lose pressure, resulting in chain slack and noise. In severe cases, the chain can jump timing, causing valve-to-piston contact on these interference engines. Regular oil changes and maintaining proper oil levels are critical.
Diagnose the concern by verifying oil level/condition, scanning for cam/crank correlation codes such as P0016-P0019, and listening for front cover timing chain rattle on cold start; if noise or correlation faults are present, remove the front timing cover and inspect the primary/secondary chains, hydraulic tensioners, guides, and cam phasers/CVVT components for wear or slack. Repair typically involves replacing the timing chain tensioners, guides, and chains as a complete timing set, changing the engine oil and filter, and addressing any root cause of low oil pressure such as sludge, a restricted pickup, or a worn oil pump. If the chain has jumped timing, perform a compression or leak-down test to check for bent valves before reassembly because these Lambda engines are interference designs. Typical repair cost is about $1,500-$3,000 depending on parts replaced and labor time, with substantially higher cost if cylinder head or valve damage is found.
Parts and tips from 0+ owners who fixed this issue
On the 2006-2011 Hyundai Azera, the hydraulic power steering system on the Azera develops leaks from the high-pressure hose, pump seals, and steering rack seals. The power steering hose is the most common leak point, typically failing at the crimp fitting where the hose connects to the metal line. A leaking power steering system causes whining noise, heavy steering, and can lead to pump damage if fluid runs low. The pump itself can also develop seal leaks from age and heat.
Confirm the leak source by cleaning the power steering system, filling the reservoir with the correct Hyundai-approved fluid, and inspecting the high-pressure hose crimps, pump body/front seal, and steering rack boots while the engine is running and the wheel is turned lock-to-lock. The most common repair is replacement of the high-pressure power steering hose and sealing washers, followed by a fluid refill and bleeding procedure; if fluid is found inside the rack boots or leaking from the pump shaft/seals, the steering rack or pump should be replaced as an assembly. Typical repair costs are about $250-$500 for a hose replacement, $400-$800 for a pump replacement, and $900-$1,500 for a steering rack replacement depending on labor rates and part quality.
Parts and tips from 0+ owners who fixed this issue
On the 2006-2017 Hyundai Azera, front strut mount bearing plates wear out, causing a creaking or groaning noise when turning the steering wheel, especially at low speeds or when stationary. Common after 60,000 miles.
Replace front strut mount bearing assemblies. Replace struts at the same time if over 80,000 miles. Perform front-end alignment after work is complete.
Parts and tips from 0+ owners who fixed this issue
On the 2006-2011 Hyundai Azera, the 2006-2011 Hyundai Azera with the 5-speed or 6-speed automatic transmission develops shift hesitation, particularly a noticeable 1-2 shift delay under wide-open throttle when cold. The torque converter lockup clutch also develops shudder during light-throttle cruising at 35-55 mph. Hyundai issued a PCM recalibration procedure to address the cold-start hesitation. If the transmission fluid is not changed regularly, the shudder progressively worsens and can lead to torque converter failure or internal transmission damage. The Azera shares its transmission with the Sonata and Santa Fe of the same era.
Parts and tips from 0+ owners who fixed this issue
On the 2006-2017 Hyundai Azera, starter motor solenoid contacts wear causing intermittent no-crank conditions. The engine may click once but not turn over, then start normally on a subsequent attempt. More common in hot weather.
Replace starter motor assembly. Inspect and clean battery cable terminals and engine ground strap. Check for proper voltage at starter solenoid terminal during crank attempt to confirm diagnosis.
Parts and tips from 0+ owners who fixed this issue
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:TRUNK LID:LATCH
Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2017-2018 Sonata, 2016-2018 Sonata Hybrid, 2018-2020 Accent, and 2016-2017 Azera vehicles. The trunk latch may become damaged, preventing the opening of the trunk from the inside. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 401, "Internal Trunk Release."
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP:CONTROL UNIT/MODULE
Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2011-2015 Elantra, Genesis Coupe, Sonata Hybrid, 2012-2015 Accent, Azera, Veloster, 2013-2015 Elantra Coupe, Santa Fe, 2014-2015 Equus, 2010-2012 Veracruz, 2010-2013 Tucson, 2015 Tucson Fuel Cell, and 2013 Santa Fe Sport vehicles. The Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) module may leak brake fluid internally and cause an electrical short, which can result in an engine compartment fire while parked or driving.
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:SENSOR/CONTROL MODULE-INACTIVE
Hyundai Motor Company (Hyundai) is recalling certain model year 2012-2013 Azera vehicles manufactured May 22, 2012, through November 23, 2012. The occupant detection system may fail to properly differentiate whether the front passenger seat occupant is an adult, a child or a child restraint seat.
Enter your VIN at NHTSA.gov to check recalls specific to your vehicle.
Don't see your problem? Describe your symptoms to get a diagnosis, or get a full repair guide.
According to Au7o's analysis of 0+ owner reports, the 2008-2008 Hyundai Azera has 5 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: Timing Chain Tensioner Failure (3.3L/3.8L Lambda), Power Steering System Leak, Automatic Transmission Shift Hesitation and Shudder. Of these, 1 is rated critical and should be addressed promptly.
The 2008-2008 Hyundai Azera has 5 known issues documented across 0+ owner reports. 1 issue is rated critical: Timing Chain Tensioner Failure (3.3L/3.8L Lambda). Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.
Repair costs for known Hyundai Azera issues range from $100 to $3,000, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, Timing Chain Tensioner Failure (3.3L/3.8L Lambda), typically costs $800-$2,500 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.
The 3.3L and 3.8L Lambda V6 engines in the Azera use timing chains with hydraulic tensioners that can fail due to oil pressure loss or internal wear. The tensioner relies on consistent oil pressure to maintain chain tension, and low oil levels or degraded oil can cause the tensio… Repairs typically run $800-$2,500. Severity: high.
The hydraulic power steering system on the Azera develops leaks from the high-pressure hose, pump seals, and steering rack seals. The power steering hose is the most common leak point, typically failing at the crimp fitting where the hose connects to the metal line. A leaking pow… Repairs typically run $200-$1,000. Severity: medium.
The 2006-2011 Hyundai Azera with the 5-speed or 6-speed automatic transmission develops shift hesitation, particularly a noticeable 1-2 shift delay under wide-open throttle when cold. The torque converter lockup clutch also develops shudder during light-throttle cruising at 35-55… Repairs typically run $100-$3,000. Severity: medium.
Starter motor solenoid contacts wear causing intermittent no-crank conditions. The engine may click once but not turn over, then start normally on a subsequent attempt. More common in hot weather. Repairs typically run $250-$500. Severity: medium.
Front strut mount bearing plates wear out, causing a creaking or groaning noise when turning the steering wheel, especially at low speeds or when stationary. Common after 60,000 miles. Repairs typically run $250-$500. Severity: low.
Content on this page was compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, owner reports, and public automotive data. While we strive for accuracy, this information may contain errors. Always verify repair procedures and specifications with your vehicle's service manual or a qualified mechanic.
