Hyundai Sonata problems
The Hyundai Sonata (Korean: 현대 쏘나타) is a mid-size car that has been manufactured by Hyundai since 1985. The first generation Sonata, which was introduced in 1985, was a facelifted version of the Hyundai Stellar with an engine upgrade, and was withdrawn from the market in two years due to poor customer reaction. While the nameplate was originally only sold in South Korea, the second generation of 1988 was widely exported.
The Sonata is currently manufactured in South Korea where their headquarters are located, China and Pakistan. It was named after the musical term, sonata.
First generation (Y1; 1985)
The first Sonata was introduced to compete with the Daewoo Royale series and was a more luxurious version of the Stellar. It included cruise control, power seats, head lamp washers, power brakes, electric operated adjustable side mirrors and chrome bumper trims. The Sonata was available with two trim options in Korea: Luxury and Super (the latter only available with a 2.0-liter engine). In the domestic market Hyundai attempted to sell the Sonata as an executive car using catchphrases like "Luxury car for VIP"; however, as the Sonata was based on the Stellar without any major changes, it was seen by the public as no more than a luxury version of the Stellar. In 1987 Hyundai added two tone color schemes and a trip computer option, but sales soon went down and the car was discontinued in December of that year. The Sonata was sold only in the South Korean domestic market. The vehicle was unveiled in South Korea on 4 November 1985.
Engine choices included 1.6-liter Mitsubishi Saturn (only available outside the domestic market), 1.8- and 2.0-liter Mitsubishi Sirius inline-fours. The latter unit also found its way into the 1987 and later Stellar, and in MPI form the 1986 Hyundai Grandeur. The body was a largely unchanged Hyundai Stellar.
It was sold in New Zealand (right hand drive) with the 1.6-liter Mitsubishi engine with the five-speed manual gearbox; an automatic transmission was an optional extra. The original importer was a unit of the Auckland-based Giltrap Motor Group.
The final version of the Stellar was known as the Stellar 88 and was launched to celebrate the 1988 Summer Olympics in Seoul. Afterwards, Hyundai discontinued the Stellar and replaced it with the all-new Sonata.
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Hyundai Sonata model years
Common Hyundai Sonata problems
The Hyundai Sonata, a popular midsize sedan, has had its fair share of problems over the years, as reported by owners. Here are some of the most common issues:
- Faulty Steering Wheel Column Coupling: Another common problem in Hyundai Sonatas is a steering wheel that clicks and wobbles when turning due to a faulty steering wheel column coupling. This issue has been reported across various model years.
- Seatbelt Linkage Recall: Hyundai recalled certain Sonata models in 2017 due to a seatbelt linkage that’s not properly connected to the pretensioner. The detached linkage may not be able to restrain the passenger during a collision and other road accidents, increasing the risk of injury.
- Airbag and Seatbelt Pretensioner Recall: In 2018, Hyundai recalled the same model years (excluding the 2014 redesign) due to disabled frontal airbags, side airbags, and seatbelt pretensioner. The automaker installed a warning label on the affected vehicles to prevent future detachment.
- Faulty Speed Sensor: Many owners of the 2012 Hyundai Sonata had problems shifting their gears due to a faulty speed sensor. This caused their vehicles to grind, shudder, and produce clunking noises when shifting from park to drive.
- Defective Speakers: Some 2011-2016 Hyundai Sonatas have been reported to have defective speakers, which can result in poor sound quality or complete failure of the audio system.
- Excessive Oil Consumption: The 2015 Sonata was plagued with major mechanical problems, including excessive oil consumption. Unhappy owners reported that the car consumed abnormal amounts of oil between oil changes, and some even had to replace their engines.
- Engine Stalling: Many 2015 Sonata owners also reported that their engines stalled or died while driving, which can be a dangerous situation, especially when it happens at high speeds.
These issues are based on owner complaints and may not represent all Hyundai Sonatas. It's essential to research and consider various factors, including the specific model year and maintenance history, before purchasing a used vehicle.
What is the main problem with the Hyundai Sonata?
Compared to its competitors, annual repair and maintenance costs for the Sonata were below average. The problems that commonly plague the Hyundai Sonata include safety issues, seizing engines, and shifting problems.
Is a Hyundai Sonata a reliable car?
Hyundai Sonata Reliability Rating Breakdown. The Hyundai Sonata Reliability Rating is 4.0 out of 5.0, which ranks it 5th out of 24 for midsize cars. The average annual repair cost is $458 which means it has excellent ownership costs.
What years did the Hyundai Sonata have engine problems?
Our attorneys filed a federal class action lawsuit on behalf of 2011-2014 model year Hyundai Sonata owners whose vehicles suffered premature and catastrophic engine failures.
What was a bad year for Hyundai Sonata?
Easily the worst model year for the Sonata, the 2011 model year is one you should absolutely avoid. The 2011 Sonata earned the “Avoid Like the Plague” seal by CarComplaints.com with a dizzying 4,000+ NHTSA complaints and 14 recalls. This was just a massive fail by Hyundai.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Hyundai Sonata years
We have researched Hyundai problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Hyundai Sonata cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Hyundai Sonata model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Hyundai Sonata model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Hyundai Sonata years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Hyundai Sonata car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Hyundai Sonata , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Engine problems
- Steering problems
- Air bags problems
- Electrical system problems
- Unknown or other problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Hyundai Sonata vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Sonata model years
A total of 712 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Sonata model years
There were a total of 474 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Sonata model years
There were a total of 676 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with deaths by Sonata model years
There were a total of 13 complaints that resulted in a death. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 14978 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Hyundai Sonata . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Hyundai Sonata vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Hyundai Sonata 2011
- Date Of Incident: 2024-01-05
- Date Complaint: 2024-11-19
- VIN: 5NPEC4AC2BH
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: The interior and exterior driver side door and driver side rear door handles are no longer functional on this vehicle. This is a well known problem with these vehicles that poses a grave safety hazard. In the event of a fire or accident, it would be impossible to exit or gain access to my vehicle without breaking the side glass. I have spoken to my Hyundai dealer and they agreed that it is a known, dangerous problem, however no TSB or recall has been issued. My only recourse is to pay to have this defect repaired. This is the first vehicle I have ever owned that has had this type of issue.
Hyundai Sonata 2011
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-06
- Date Complaint: 2024-11-14
- VIN: 5NPEB4AC1BH
- Components: SEAT BELTS,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: My car will randomly shut off while I’m driving. My seatbelt comes undone My door has opened while I was driving down the highway.
Hyundai Sonata 2011
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-10
- Date Complaint: 2024-11-11
- VIN: 5NPEB4AC5BH
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: The car engine seized while driving on the highway.
Hyundai Sonata 2011
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-23
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-30
- VIN: 5NPEC4ACXBH
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Engine consumes oil profusely. 175000miles. Complaint #: [XXX], 8/23/24. Car is not drivable parked. Common complaint. Should have been RECALLED. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Hyundai Sonata 2011
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-30
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-30
- VIN: 5NPEC4AC8BH
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2011 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, there was a loud knocking sound coming from the engine with the check engine warning light illuminated. The contact stated that the vehicle lost motive power. The vehicle was restarted; however, the failure recurred. The vehicle was towed to the dealer but was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and confirmed that the VIN was not included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 15V568000 (ENGINE) because the maintenance records were not provided and the dealer deemed that the vehicle was poorly maintained. The approximate failure mileage was 280,000.
Hyundai Sonata 2011
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-07
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-30
- Number Of Injuries: 2
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 5NPEC4AB9BH
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The contact owned a 2011 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated that while her husband was driving at 60 MPH, the instrument panel started flickering, the engine started to rev, and the vehicle stalled. The vehicle veered to the side of the road and was parked. The contact then noticed that there was smoke coming from the vehicle and proceeded to open the hood of the vehicle. Soon after, flames were discovered coming from under the vehicle. The contact and her husband removed all personal items and watched from a safe distance. The fire department arrived at the scene however the vehicle was entirely consumed by the fire. The ambulance also arrived at the scene however no medical attention was provided since there were no physical injuries. The contact and her husband sustained emotional distress due to the incident. A police report was filed. The vehicle was destroyed. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.
Hyundai Sonata 2011
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-29
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-29
- VIN: KMHEC4A49BA
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER,SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE
- Summary: Leaking
Hyundai Sonata 2022
- Date Of Incident: 2023-11-11
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-27
- VIN: KMHL54JJ8NA
- Components: STEERING,AIR BAGS,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: When outside temperature drops, car starts in morning with several warning lights illuminated, indicating fault with several safety systems including airbags, brake, power steering, front camera, blind-spot collision warning system, traction control and smart cruise control. Car key fobs have consistently failed, disabling access to the vehicle. The vehicles 12V reset recently failed which required Hyundai Roadside Assistance (10/25/24). According to BlueLink application, cars 12V battery has been reset dozens of times, which is information visible to the service centers. However, at several past service appointments it has been verbally stated that "problem can not be replicated" and was not documented. Problem was confirmed by Hyundai service center on March 13, 2024. Problem was not resolved at the time of service, vehicle was returned back without resolution. With temperatures now dropping at night, said issues are occurring daily with warning indicators for failing safety systems illuminating upon cold start and electrical system failing daily.
Hyundai Sonata 2018
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-27
- VIN: 5NPE34AF7JH
- Components: POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE
- Summary: My car is part of a campaign due to rod-bearing failure where the engine experiences problems such as complete failure, vibrating, hesitating, engine light on, and oil light on. I've been communicating with Hyundai who is not helping me with this issue. I was advised by them to continue driving the car "until the engine seizes", or I hear "a loud knocking noise". Upon inspection, three local Hyundai employees "agreed 100%" I need a new engine. However, per these employees Hyundai Corporate will not approve the replacement even though the vehicle is constantly experiencing the above symptoms above, simply because there is not a "loud knocking noise" coming from the engine. Even though ALL the other issues are present. This is very unsafe. I have a minor child I take to school daily, for an advisor to advise to drive the vehicle until "the engine seizes" is extremely dangerous, especially when they are aware my VIN is associated with engine replacement. My car exhibits symptoms of a rod-bearing failure and this multi-billion dollar company is taking advantage of hard-working urban mothers, by turning a blind eye and trying to require me to pay thousands of dollars up front for a problem THEY created by selling a vehicle with faulty engine. Again, the technicians indicated i in fact do need the engine replaced, but that Hyundai Corporate will require me to pay for a diagnostic test, rod-bearing test, and engine compression test because Corporate does not take their word for it. The fact a auto manufacturer is advising people to drive in such an unsafe manner is disheartening. If my child and I get injured in an accident by following their advice, our blood will be on their hands!
Hyundai Sonata 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2023-10-13
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-26
- VIN: 5NPE24AF4HH
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: I have had many problems with my car since 1st day of purchase timing belt oilpans valve cover gasket burning excessive oil caliper brake hose last few events I have experienced my ABS light coming on in the car stop moving while am in traffic very dangerous I work for the hospice reserve one day while driving the car started shaking compulsive and the check engine light came on I was informed oil was leaking onto my spark plug and engine was going out I experienced extreme hot air inside the car coming out vents back firing etc my warranty in finical company seems to be ripping me off more concerned about money I have reported all these problems to them the past 13-14 months i was suppose to hear back from lisa warranty about this problem this past week no contact I reached out to Hyundai Corporation after visiting local dealership on Bedford automile a service rep by the name of aaron basically told me they cannot help me car will need a engine
Hyundai Sonata 2023
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-26
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-26
- VIN: KMHL14JC9PA
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
- Summary: For like the fifth time while I'm driving the car just dies. I can be going 55 I can be going 70 and the dashboard lights up like a Christmas tree and the car just dies. I have to pull the car over to the side and I have to turn it off and restart it again. And then about 3 days later the check engine light will go away. This seems like a software issue but Hyundai and my local dealer cannot help me I'm going to get killed in this thing. I can't take it on the highway I can barely take it down the street because it could go out on me while I'm driving and I could be in the middle lane and I could get killed. They tell me they can't replicate the issue but it's a software issue somebody needs to do something before I get killed. Every single light on the dashboard turns on and the engine just dies. This is like the fifth time this has happened. I think this car is a lemon but no one will help me.
Hyundai Sonata 2013
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-19
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-25
- VIN: 5NPEC4AC0DH
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Vehicle had been low on oil for multiple months and was brought to the dealership and then to independent body shop for repair. Low oil light NEVER came on, but vehicle initially leaking oil (puddle on floor under car). Car serviced every 3 months/miles. While driving on highway, engine started knocking, and the MIL (malfunction indicator light started blinking). Knocking got louder and all sensor lights illuminated. Pulled off side of road and waited for tow truck. Attempted to drive to safer location off highway to wait. Car towed home. Would not start next day. Jumped battery and MIL light came back on and knocking sound continued. Car towed to mechanic who performed diagnostic and advised that the Rod Knock was broken and engine would need to be replaced. Vehicle has approximately 130,000 miles, however was running perfectly prior to this incident.
Hyundai Sonata 2012
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-15
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-25
- VIN: KMHEC4A43CA
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: The passenger rear door will not open from the inside OR the outside. The door lock on the inside of the car will not open. Door is in locked position. Problems like this are all over the internet regarding Hyundai cars. This is a safety issue because someone in the back seat can NOT open the door and are potentially locked inside the car with no way out. This could be life and death if there was a fire, accident, etc. Independent repair center has inspected and confirms. No warning lights. Just happened in September 2024.
Hyundai Sonata 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-24
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-24
- VIN: 5NPE24AF2HH
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Vehicle is burning oil. Have been using fully synthetic oil at regular 3000 miles. And have been increasing “burned” more oil before each oil change. Valvoline Instant Oil Change is the shop I’ve been going to for my oil serviced maintenance. My last visit I had 1 quart of oil left in my engine.
Hyundai Sonata 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-22
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-24
- VIN: 5NPE24AF1HH
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: In early June 2024 while driving 65 MPH vehicle started shaking, engine and oil light came on, losing power, noisy and only would go 50 MPH max. When destination reached, checked oil level (was low) added oil.Took the vehicle to auto repair shop. Review showed a misfire in cylinder #2 with plug oil fouled and recommended new engine. The car was taken to the Hyundai dealer who performed various diag. procedures via communicating with their Techline who ended up rejecting the request to replace the engine due to the milage (136K) being out of warranty. They would replace engine if the connecting rod bearings had wear or damage. Hyundai national consumer affairs contact given for the case refuses to listen to any information given and only states vehicle is out of warranty. Hyundai knows this engine has manufacturing issues causing them to wear out prematurely including excessive oil consumption. They should extend the warranty to at least 150K. Afraid to drive car as engine may suddenly stop or catch fire causing accident/injury to occupants. Please help!
Latest 5 recalls Hyundai Sonata
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 135 recalls for different components of the Hyundai Sonata.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Hyundai Sonata 2023
- Report Received Date: 2023-07-27
- Manufacturer: Hyundai Motor America
- Park Out Side: 1
- Park Out Side: 1
- Components: POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:FLUID/LUBRICANT:PUMP
- Summary: Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2023-2024 Palisade Tucson, 2023 Sonata, Elantra, and Kona vehicles. The electronic controller for the Idle Stop & Go oil pump assembly may contain damaged electrical components that can cause the pump controller to overheat.
- Consequence: An electric oil pump assembly that overheats increases the risk of a vehicle fire.
- Remedy: Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures until the recall repair is complete. Dealers will inspect and replace the electric oil pump controller, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed starting September 7, 2023. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 246.
- Model: Hyundai Sonata 2021
- Report Received Date: 2022-10-06
- Manufacturer: Hyundai Motor America
- Components: POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
- Summary: Hyundai Motor Company (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Santa Fe, Sonata, Veloster N, 2022 Santa Cruz, Elantra N, and Kona N vehicles. The vehicle's "fail-safe" limited-mobility drive mode may be impaired, when prompted by a transmission oil pump malfunction, which can result in a complete loss of drive power.
- Consequence: Loss of drive power increases the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace the transmission, as necessary. Dealers will also update the transmission control unit software. All repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 10, 2023. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 236.
- Model: Hyundai Sonata 2022
- Report Received Date: 2022-10-06
- Manufacturer: Hyundai Motor America
- Components: POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
- Summary: Hyundai Motor Company (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Santa Fe, Sonata, Veloster N, 2022 Santa Cruz, Elantra N, and Kona N vehicles. The vehicle's "fail-safe" limited-mobility drive mode may be impaired, when prompted by a transmission oil pump malfunction, which can result in a complete loss of drive power.
- Consequence: Loss of drive power increases the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace the transmission, as necessary. Dealers will also update the transmission control unit software. All repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 10, 2023. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 236.
- Model: Hyundai Sonata 2013
- Report Received Date: 2022-05-06
- Manufacturer: Hyundai Motor America
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
- Summary: Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2013-2014 Sonata vehicles. The low pressure fuel hose that connects the low pressure fuel pump to the direct injection fuel pump may crack over time, due to heat generated within the engine compartment.
- Consequence: A cracked fuel hose may leak fuel, which can increase the risk of a fire.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the low pressure fuel hose, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed October 10, 2022. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 227. This recall replaces NHTSA recall number 20V-121. Vehicles previously repaired under recall 20V-121 that did not receive a replacement fuel hose will need to have this new recall remedy performed.
- Model: Hyundai Sonata 2014
- Report Received Date: 2022-05-06
- Manufacturer: Hyundai Motor America
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
- Summary: Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2013-2014 Sonata vehicles. The low pressure fuel hose that connects the low pressure fuel pump to the direct injection fuel pump may crack over time, due to heat generated within the engine compartment.
- Consequence: A cracked fuel hose may leak fuel, which can increase the risk of a fire.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the low pressure fuel hose, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed October 10, 2022. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 227. This recall replaces NHTSA recall number 20V-121. Vehicles previously repaired under recall 20V-121 that did not receive a replacement fuel hose will need to have this new recall remedy performed.
Latest negative Hyundai Sonata car reviews
Latest positive Hyundai Sonata car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2016
I purchased the 2016 Sonata four years ago to replace my new 2016 Civic. Although the Civic was uncomfortable on long drives, the Sonata has been a great car. With 54,000 miles on it, I have not had to replace any tires and nothing has gone wrong. It is a simple, well-maintained, and reliable car. However, I do wish it was more exciting to drive. To solve this issue, I purchased a used 2015 Mazda 6 with a manual transmission, which is now my daily driver. I use the Sonata for long road trips. The only maintenance I have done is change the transmission fluid, had the oil changed a few times, and replaced the air and cabin filters. Other than that, it is all good! If you have ever owned a Camry, this is the Korean version of one. The 2.4L engine is rather tepid, but it accelerates well enough for regular surface streets. The handling is kind of on the sloppy side, so if you whip it around a corner at high speed, don't be surprised if it tries to whip you back. In other words, it gets a little bit floaty and may not go exactly where you point it. However, it will eventually settle down. Tire grip is okay, but the Kumho tires on it are not as quiet as some BF Goodrich's that I've used on other cars. They will be replaced by Pirelli's or BF Goodrich's. The first reason I purchased it was for fuel economy. This car gets about an average of 34 to 36 miles per gallon when driven continuously on the highway at around 70mph. Even in mixed traffic, I very seldom get less than 32 mpg.During a recent 250 mile drive, I was able to achieve an impressive 39.75 miles per gallon while cruising at 65mph. This car can easily accommodate four adult passengers or five passengers with children in the back, making it a great choice for families. The car is also a very quiet cruiser, which reduces driver fatigue on long drives. The entertainment system is user-friendly, with large fonts and easy-to-use push buttons for phone, media, radio, Bluetooth, and more. It works seamlessly with Android phones as well. The car's visibility is excellent, providing a clear view of the front, sides, and rear. The trunk is spacious and can hold a lot of items. The interior layout is simple and the materials used are of decent quality. The Sports model, with its twin exhausts, LED daytime running lights, and darker chrome in the front, looks sporty and stylish. At just over $21K, this car is a great value for the equipment and features it offers. I have had no major issues with this vehicle, and with 39,000 miles on the odometer, it still has another 20,000 miles left on the bumper-to-bumper warranty and over 100,000 miles on the powertrain. Overall, this car is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a reliable and feature-packed mid-size car.
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Vehicle year: 2011
I bought my 2011 2.0 Turbo SE on March 1st and have already driven 1600 miles, which shows how much I love driving this car. I did experience some pulling to the left, so I brought it back to the dealership. They informed me that Hyundai was aware of the issue and was waiting for a computer update for the steering. I decided to call consumer care to verify this, and I was pleasantly surprised by the great service. They took my name and serial number of the car, called the dealership where we bought it, and helped me make an appointment. Shortly after, I received a call from Paul, the regional service manager from Hyundai in New Jersey. He informed me that they had changed the specifications and fixed the issue, so there would be no more pulling.
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Vehicle year: 2008
247,000 miles and still going strong! Even though I haven't been good about regular maintenance, my vehicle has held up remarkably well.
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Vehicle year: 2004
This car has been my dream since childhood, when my mom bought a gold loaded one in 2004. Finally, in 2019, I got the chance to buy one for cash. I absolutely love this car! It's good-looking, comfortable, fuel-efficient, and extremely reliable. As a full-time Uber Eats and DoorDash driver, I primarily use a new Hyundai, but I decided to give it a break and drive the '04. Even with 160,000 miles on it, it still runs perfectly and has given me no problems. In just two months, I've already put 7,000 miles on it. The radio sounds perfect, all the buttons look new, everything is just perfect!
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Vehicle year: 2001
I had an Excel before which was great, but I must say that the quality and value of the Sonata is outstanding. It does the job really well, whether I'm using it for short commutes or long trips with the family. I did have one problem with the power windows, but it was fixed under warranty.
Are you having problems with your Hyundai Sonata?
Ervin Emmerich 2025-04-17
Vehicle year: 2023
I leased a 2023 Hyundai Sonata in December 2022 and unfortunately, I have had some major problems with the engine. The first engine failure occurred at 1,600 miles and it was towed to a dealership. The car was bucking and lost engine power, so I couldn’t drive. They diagnosed a faulty fuel injector. The same thing happened at 8100 miles and this time we were on the highway and almost hit from behind before we could pull off the road. We were towed to a Hyundai dealership where they replaced a second faulty fuel injector. We are a bit concerned about taking this car on the road for fear this could happen again. Even driving locally is very troublesome, and we take 500 mile road trips so taking this car on the highway is out of the question because another failure could happen at any time and we could be stuck far away from home. We called Hyundai Consumer Affairs and they told us that since the car was repaired there was nothing more they could do for us. While I would not recommend this car to anyone that needs a safe and reliable car, I hope that Hyundai can address these issues and improve their vehicles in the future.
Frank Smith 2025-04-17
Vehicle year: 1998
It's great to hear that you got such a good deal on your car! I paid $3500 CAN for my '92 Civic, which is worth the same amount, but I have to say that the '95 Sonata is better in every way. It's so smooth, and with the 5-speed model, the Mitsubishi engine (137 hp) responds really well. Even at 175,000 km, the engine looks like new!
Houston O'Reilly 2025-04-15
Vehicle year: 2001
I received this car as a hand-me-down from my parents when it had around 55K miles. They bought it brand new in 2001 and it had zero issues until recently. Unfortunately, after 50,000 miles, the engine had to be replaced. However, it has been running great since then. The only problem I have noticed is that the auto-tranny is lagging (at 65K miles), but thankfully, the 10-year/100K mile warranty will cover it. The power you get from this 4-cylinder car is surprisingly impressive. Passing people on freeways is no problem, and it handles corners very well for a sedan. While I wouldn't necessarily recommend this car, it is fairly reliable. If you happen to be stuck with it, it will get you from point A to B without many problems.
Maximillian Leffler 2025-04-14
Vehicle year: 2016
My first new car was a 2016 Hyundai Sonata. While I loved the car for its great gas mileage and comfort, I experienced an issue where it started to lose about a quart of oil a month, despite only driving 600 miles a month. Although I was initially turned off to Hyundai, I decided to trade it for a Toyota RAV4. I have been informed that this issue may be related to GDI engines. However, I remain confident in my decision to switch to Toyota and will not be purchasing another Hyundai.
Schuyler Hickle 2025-04-14
Vehicle year: 2011
The car is fantastic, but there is one minor flaw that you may run into: it rattles when going between 2000-3500 RPM. Unfortunately, there is a TSB from Hyundai stating that the rattle is expected and they won't fix it. During normal engine operation, natural engine vibrations are transmitted to the turbocharger waste gate actuator rod, the pivot point, and the waste gate valve. The rattle or buzzing sound that may occur results from the required tolerances in the waste gate pivot point and the waste gate valve. These tolerances are necessary to allow operation under the extreme operating temperatures experienced by the turbocharger. I understand that this is frustrating, but please know that the car is still a great choice overall. Thank you for your understanding.