1996 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Sonata, which was introduced in 1985, was a facelifted version of the Hyundai Stellar with an engine upgrade, and was withdrawn from the market in two years due to poor customer reaction.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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Common 1996 Hyundai Sonata problems
Based on complaints from owners of the Hyundai Sonata 1996, several common problems have been reported:
- Transmission Problems: Another frequent complaint from Hyundai Sonata 1996 owners revolves around transmission issues. Complaints often mention transmission failure to shift properly, which can result in safety hazards and affect the overall driving experience. Addressing transmission problems is crucial to ensure the vehicle's longevity and safety on the road.
- Electrical System Malfunctions: Owners have reported various electrical system malfunctions in the Hyundai Sonata 1996. These complaints range from issues with the vehicle's electrical components, such as faulty wiring, malfunctioning lights, or problems with the vehicle's speed control system. Electrical system problems can impact the overall functionality and safety of the vehicle, requiring prompt attention and repair.
- Braking System Concerns: Braking system problems have also been a common complaint among Hyundai Sonata 1996 owners. Issues related to brake calipers, ABS warning lamps, and parking brake indicators not functioning properly have been reported. Maintaining a reliable braking system is essential for safe driving, and addressing these concerns promptly is crucial for vehicle safety.
- Steering Assist Issues: Complaints regarding the loss of steering assist have been raised by owners of the Hyundai Sonata 1996. Loss of power steering can significantly impact the vehicle's maneuverability and safety while driving. Ensuring the steering system is in optimal condition is vital for safe operation of the vehicle on the road.
These common problems reported by owners of the Hyundai Sonata 1996 highlight the importance of regular maintenance, prompt repairs, and attention to potential issues to ensure the vehicle's reliability, safety, and longevity. Addressing these concerns promptly can help owners maintain the performance and value of their Hyundai Sonata 1996.
What is the common problem of Hyundai Sonata?
Old and new Sonata model years had similar issues with their timing chain tensioner, which produced rattling noises upon engine startup. Many owners also reported a broken timing belt, which damaged the crankshaft position sensor.
What was a bad year for Hyundai Sonata?
A Hyundai Sonata engine failure lawsuit accuses Hyundai of manufacturing defective engines in model year 2011-2012 Sonatas. The plaintiff alleges Hyundai knew when the connecting rod bearings start to fail, metal debris from the bearings is sent throughout the engine through contaminated engine oil.
Is Hyundai Sonata high maintenance?
A Hyundai Sonata will cost about $5,998 for maintenance and repairs during its first 10 years of service. This beats the industry average for popular sedan models by $1,098. There is also a 17.73% chance that a Sonata will require a major repair during that time.
Is Sonata a good car?
While the Sonata's road manners don't impress us as much as the Honda Accord's, its high style quotient and value-oriented packaging make it a great choice among family sedans—and a great addition to our 2024 Editors' Choice list—nonetheless.
1996 Hyundai Sonata car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Hyundai Sonata problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Power train problems
- Electrical system problems
- Air bags problems
- Equipment problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1996 Hyundai Sonata vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 1996 Hyundai Sonata
The NHTSA has received 29 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1996 Hyundai Sonata. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1996 Hyundai Sonata vehicles.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-07-28
- VIN: KMHFC46F46A
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: HEADLIGHTS BLINK FOR NO APPARENT REASON SINCE NEW IN JULY 2006 ON MY AZERA LIMITED. *TR
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Number Of Deaths: 1
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: A CONSUMER?S FIVE YEAR STEP DAUGHTER WAS KILLED BY THE AIR BAG THAT DEPLOYED IN A 5 MPH COLLISION ACCIDENT. THE CONSUMER INDICATED THAT THE AIR BAG WAS DEFECTIVE, THIS REPORT WAS WRITTEN IN BY CLARENCE DITLOW, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR FOR THE CENTER FOR AUTO SAFETY, 202-328-7700, 1825 CONNECTICUT AVE NW, STE 330, WASHINGTON, DC 20009. *YH
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-03-19
- VIN: KMHCF34T3TU
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: WHILE TRAVELING ON HIGHWAY AND WITHOUT PRIOR WARNING AIRBAG LIGHT APPEARED ON DASHBOARD. DEALERSHIP IS AWARE OF PROBLEM.*AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-07-20
- VIN: KMHCF24F4TU
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: MY ENGINE QUITE AT A LIGHT. THERE WAS NO WARNING, THE CAR HAD BEEN RUNNING FINE. IT HAD BEEN ABOUT 4,000 MILES SINCE MY LAST OIL CHANGE. *AK
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-01-24
- VIN: KMHCF24F9TU
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: CONSUMER WAS CHARGED FOR RECALL REPAIR 97V-026 FOR THE INOPERATIVE WINDSHIELD WIPERS, CONSUMER REQUEST REIMBURSEMENT. NLM
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-01-24
- VIN: KMHCF24F9TU
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: FRONT PASSENGER DOOR HANDLE BROKE. NLM
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: KMHCF24F3TU
- Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
- Summary: DOOR LOCK WOULD KEEP LOCKING ON ITS OWN. WHEN EITHER IN OR OUT OF VEHICLE LOCKS WOULD EITHER KEEP DRIVER/PASSENGER IN/OR LOCKED OUT. HAD DOOR LOCKS REPAIRED 5 TIMES, BUT PROBLEM KEEPS REAPPEARING. MECHANIC INDICATED TO BRING IT IN WHEN IT HAPPENS, BUT IT'S NOT RESOLVED. DEALER URGED CONSUMER TO TAKE VEHICLE TO ANOTHER DEALERSHIP FOR REPAIRS. *AK
POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VISIBILITY,EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: KMHCF24F5TU
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VISIBILITY,EQUIPMENT
- Summary: WHEN DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY AT 65 MPH TRANSMISSION STOPPED CHANGING GEARS, CAUSING VEHICLE TO DECELERATE, AND LOSING ALL POWER. CONSUMER HAS CONTACTED DEALER. DEALER REPLACED TRANSMISSION. ALSO, HAVING OTHER PROBLEMS WITH THE STARTER AND ALTERNATOR. *AK AXLE BROKE , DEFROST MALFUNCTIONS AND CASSETTE PLAYER FAILED. *YH
POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-06-15
- VIN: KMHCF24F0TU
- Components: POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: CAR WANTS TO LURCH FORWARD WHEN STOPPED AT A TRAFIC LIGHT .NEW TRANSMISSION IN CAR . PROBLEM STILL APPEARS.*AK
STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-03-12
- Components: STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: THE POWER-STEERING PUMP S LEAKING DOWN INTO THE ALTERNATOR, AND SHORTING IT OUT. DEALER LOOKED AT IT THREE TIMES AND REPLACED THE HIGH PSI LINE GOING INTO THE PUMP, AS WELL AS THE CRUSH WASHERS. THAT WAS ACCOMPLISHED THE SECOND TIME IT HAPPENED. THE THIRD TIME THEY REPLACED THE HIGH PSI LINE AGAIN, AND IT OCCURRED THREE MORE TIMES AND THEY TOLD US THERE WAS NOTHING THAT THEY COULD DO BECAUSE THE VEHICLE WAS OUT OF WARRANTY. THEREFORE WE HAVE REPLACED THE ALTERNATOR THREE MORE TIMES TO CORRECT THE PROBLEM. I, THE OWNER, BUILT A GUARD OVER THE ALTERNATOR TO PREVENT THE FLUID FROM LEAKING INTO THE ALTERNATOR. SINCE THEN WE HAVE HAD NO PROBLEMS, BUT IT TOOK THE ENGINEERING OF MYSELF TO FIX THE PROBLEM. *AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: KMHCF24T1TU
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: VEHICLE HAS BEEN BACK TO AUTO REPAIR CENTER FOR THE SAME REOCCURRING PROBLEM AT LEAST 10 DIFFERENT TIMES. CAR CUTS OFF AT CRUISE SPEEDS CAR/ BUCKS AND RESTARTS, CAR DIES WHEN YOU TURN CORNERS AT LOW SPEEDS AND YOU MUST PUT CAR IN NUTREL TO RESTART. *AK
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: KMHCF24F0TU
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: THE VEHICLE HAS BEEN SERVICED 3 TIMES IN THE LAST YEAR BECAUSE THE AIR BAG WARNING LIGHT CONTINUED TO COME ON. ONE OF THE AIR BAGS WAS REPLACED, BUT THE AIR BAG WARNING LIGHT CONTINUES TO COME ON. THE VEHICLE WILL BE SERVICED THE 4TH TIME FOR THE SAME PROBLEM. *AK
EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-09-20
- VIN: KMHCF24F3TU
- Components: EQUIPMENT
- Summary: AIR CONDITIONING COMPRESSOR FAILED.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: KMHCF24FXPU
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: WATER LEAKS FROM UNDERHOOD INTO THE INSIDE OF THE VEHICLE. CAUSE UNKNOWN. PLEASE GIVE ANY FURTHER DETAILS. *AK
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: KMHCF24F5TU
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: WHEN THE BRAKES ARE APPLIED THE VEHICLE SHIMMIES AND SHAKES . THE DEALER HAS NOT BEEN ABLE TO CORRECT THE PROBLEM. THE MANUFACTURER HAS BEEN NOTIFIED. *AK
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-03-01
- VIN: KMHCF24F7TU
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: CONSUMER EXPERIENCING PROBLEM WITH ENGINE CHECK LIGHT INTERMITTENTLY COMING ON. VEHICLE BEEN IN/OUT OF DEALER SHOP AND PROBLEM CANNOT BE RESOLVED. DEALER NOTIFIED. *AK
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-01-01
- VIN: KMHCF24F7TU
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: CONSUMER EXPERIENCING PROBLEM WITH RIGHT TAIL LIGHT FAILURE. BULB WOULD LAST EIGHT MONTH OR LESS. DEALER NOTIFIED AND REPLACING BULB AT THE COST TO CONSUMER.*AK
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-07-03
- VIN: KMHCF24F7TU
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: CONSUMER EXPERIENCED BATTERY BLOWING UP WHILE SITTING IN VEHICLE AND THE ENGINE WAS IDLING. CONSUMER HEARD A LOUD NOISE, LOOK UNDER THE HOOD AND FOUND THE BATTERY IN PIECES. DEALER NOTIFIED. *AK
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-03-01
- VIN: KMHCF24F7TU
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: VEHICLE WOULD VIBRATE WHILE DRIVING. AS SOON AS CONSUMER SHIFTED FROM PARK TO DRIVE, THE VEHICLE WOULD START TO VIBRATE. DEALER NOTIFIED. *AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-10-01
- VIN: KMHCF24F7TU
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,EQUIPMENT
- Summary: VEHICLE WOULD STALL EVERY TIME A/C IS USED. DEALER NOTIFIED AND THE PROBLEM STILL HAS NOT BEEN RESOLVED AT THIS TIME. *AK
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-06-14
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: TRANSMISSION HAS FAILED TWO TIMES.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-07-02
- VIN: KMHC24FOTU5
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN
- Summary: TRANSMISSION, BRAKE, ENGINE, AND AIR CONDITIONER FAILURE.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-02-10
- VIN: KMHCF24FXTU
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: BRAKES MAKE SQUEAKING NOISE AND PEDAL GOES TOO FAR TOWARDS THE FLOOR, REPAIRS MADE HOWEVER PROBLEMS STILL EXIST.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-02-10
- VIN: KMHCF24FXTU
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: SPARK PLUGS FAILED SEVERAL TIMES, CAUSING SLUGGISH ACCELERATION.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-10-14
- VIN: KMHCF24FXTU
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: VALVE COVER GASKETS FAILED.
1996 Hyundai Sonata recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 1996 Hyundai Sonata.
- Manufacturer: HYUNDAI MOTOR AMERICA
- Components: VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD WIPER/WASHER:MOTOR
- Summary: THE WINDSHIELD WIPER MOTOR CIRCUIT BREAKER ELECTRICAL CONTACTS WERE CONTAMINATED DURING ASSEMBLY.
- Consequence: THIS CONTAMINATION INTERFERES WITH THE ELECTRICAL CIRCUIT CONTINUITY AND PREVENTS THE WINDSHIELD WIPER MOTOR FROM OPERATING. INOPERATIVE WINDSHIELD WIPERS CAN CONTRIBUTE TO REDUCED VISIBILITY DURING INCLEMENT WEATHER INCREASING THE RISK OF A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REMOVE THE CONTAMINANTS FROM THE WINDSHIELD WIPER MOTOR CIRCUIT BREAKER CONTACTS.
Negative 1996 Hyundai Sonata car reviews
Positive 1996 Hyundai Sonata car reviews
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I really don't think it's fair to blame this car for some trivial problems. In my experience, it's been incredibly comfortable and smooth to drive. I purchased it for $2300 when it had 120000 miles on the clock, and it's still working perfectly. It's so quiet that I barely even feel like I'm driving! I bought it in NJ and drove it all the way to FL - a journey of about 1300 miles - and it didn't give me any trouble at all.
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This car has almost wonderful equipment, and it comes at a great price. However, there are a few minor issues.
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I had some issues with my auto transmission. Unfortunately, I did not have the transmission coolant flushed, which caused it to overheat and eventually fail. However, I was able to purchase a new one and it has been running smoothly ever since. Additionally, I experienced a problem with the auto door locks, as they would sometimes lock unexpectedly when I exited the car, leaving my keys inside. On the bright side, the brakes have held up really well and the car provides a comfortable ride even on the worst frost-heaved roads. The only downside has been the cost and availability of parts. Currently, I am in need of a valve cover gasket, but none of the dealers seem to have it in stock.
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This car is a true survivor! Even after 9 years, it still runs like a dream. I've pushed it to its limits at 190km/h and it's still a blast to drive. Despite being in a front crash at 80km/h, the car took all the impact and I walked away unscathed. Mechanically, it's in excellent condition and performs like a champ. However, there have been some issues with body mouldings rusting inside and swelling, which I've had to replace twice. The door locks also rust and freeze, which can be a bit of a hassle to deal with. Additionally, some of the hardware like the sunshades and doorknobs have fallen apart over time. But, I upgraded the stereo to a Hyundai CD combo and the sound quality is far superior. The A/C still works like a charm and keeps me cool on hot days. I did have to rebuild the fuel tank due to rust, and the manual tranny needed to be rebuilt in its 5th year as the wheel bearings were a bit noisy. Overall, my experience with this car has been quite positive and I'm confident it will continue to serve me well.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1996 Hyundai Sonata problems:
1996 Hyundai Sonata Repair: Service and Maintenance Cost
Get 1996 Hyundai Sonata repair and maintenance costs, common problems, recalls, and more. Find certified Hyundai mechanics near you.
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Other years of Hyundai Sonata
Are you having problems with your 1996 Hyundai Sonata?
Lonnie Larkin 2024-09-16
I bought this car when it had around 50,000 miles and it performed very well until it reached 90,000 miles. Unfortunately, after that point, everything started falling apart and I ended up spending around $3,000 on repairs. Currently, my transmission only has 3rd gear and I have to redline on a highway at 90mph. I also can't take turns at more than 25mph or it will skid out. In my experience, I wouldn't recommend buying a Hyundai. Personally, I would rather have a Civic than this car.
Stephen Zboncak 2024-05-13
Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I wanted to share my experience with my Sonata that I purchased brand new. It's a great car with a five-speed and A/C, but no other power options. Unfortunately, I did have to get a new clutch at 97K, but since then, I've had regular maintenance including a timing belt every 60K, a rebuilt starter and alternator, and a new water pump. I did have a bit of trouble with my local dealer when they changed hands - the second timing belt service was quite expensive and they used some non-factory parts. But overall, I've been really happy with my Sonata. Thanks for listening!
Mustafa Bernhard 2024-02-06
My father-in-law gave me this car with about 100,000 km. Although it's not the nicest car I've ever driven, it has proven to be incredibly reliable. It has never broken down on me, and it starts up in the snow and cold without fail. So far, I've only had to replace the battery, distributor cap, and plugs. Fortunately, getting work done on Korean cars in Korea is very affordable. The only issue I've had is with the power door locks, which tend to lock and unlock on their own. To avoid getting locked out, I always make sure to roll down the window before exiting the car! With 155,000 km (nearly 100,000 mi.) on it now, I'm confident that this car will continue to serve me well for many more miles.
Ismael Hirthe 2024-01-27
I bought this car because it was the only one available that I could afford. Although it has had some issues such as the brakes going out twice, rattling terribly, stalling when the a/c is on (and sometimes when it's not), and the interior fogging up when the heat is on, it is still comfortable and gets good gas mileage. However, I have decided not to buy another Hyundai.
Watson Marquardt 2024-01-25
I purchased my Hyundai last week and unfortunately experienced some issues with it shortly after. The timing belt, trunk lock, glove box lock, and passenger side door handle all malfunctioned. However, I am confident that these issues can be resolved and I still believe in the quality of Hyundai vehicles.