1997 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Sonata, which was introduced in 1985, was a facelifted version of the Hyundai Stellar with an engine upgrade, and was withdrawn from the market in two years due to poor customer reaction.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 1997 Hyundai Sonata problems
The Hyundai Sonata 1997 is known for certain common problems that owners have reported over the years. Here are some of the most frequently mentioned issues and their details:
- Valve timing belt: If the engine is making a ticking or tapping noise, it may be a sign of a bent valve or improperly aligned timing belt.
- Transmission problems: Some owners have reported harsh shifting and transmission issues, which can be caused by low transmission fluid levels or software errors.
- Seatbelt problems: Some sixth and seventh-generation Hyundai Sonata vehicles have experienced problems with the driver restraint system, specifically with the seatbelt connections.
- Timing belt: The timing belt is a common issue for Hyundai Sonata cars of all generations, and it is crucial to check and replace it if needed.
- Engine problems: The sixth generation Hyundai Sonata faced engine problems, specifically with the turbocharged four-cylinder engines and the hybrid engine.
These are some of the most common problems reported by Hyundai Sonata 1997 owners. It is essential to maintain the car properly and address any issues promptly to ensure the car's longevity and performance.
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 year is a bad year for Hyundai Sonata?
Avoid: 2012-2013 Hyundai Sonata
The 2012 Hyundai Sonata gathered over 2,000 complaints and eight recalls, so while it's better than the 2011 Sonata, its issues don't inspire much confidence. Meanwhile, the 2013 Hyundai Sonata is also another stinker for this generation.
What is the fuel consumption of a 1997 Hyundai Sonata?
Hyundai Sonata 1997 Fuel consumption
Fuel consumption for the 1997 Hyundai Sonata is dependent on the type of engine, transmission, or model chosen. The Hyundai Sonata currently offers fuel consumption from 8.3 to 10L/100km.
Is Sonata good car to buy?
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.
1997 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:
- Fuel system problems
- Gasoline problems
- Power train problems
- Air bags problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1997 Hyundai Sonata vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 1997 Hyundai Sonata
The NHTSA has received 60 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1997 Hyundai Sonata. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1997 Hyundai Sonata vehicles.
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-05-02
- VIN: 5NPET46C27H
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: FAILURE/BREAKAGE OF PASSENGER SIDE SUN VISOR AS ADDRESSED IN HYUNDAI TSB 09-01-003 NHTSA ID:10028945 RESULTING IN VISOR BEING UNABLE TO STAY IN POSITION BLOCKING VISIBILITY. *TR
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-05-01
- VIN: KMHCF24F9VU
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: AFTER ATTEMPTING TO CALL HYUNDAI, I AM ABSOLUTELY FED UP WITH EVERYTHING THEY ARE DOING. I HAVE "REPAIRED" MY VEHICLE ON NUMEROUS OCCASIONS TO NO AVAIL. AFTER AT LEAST 5, DEFINITELY MORE, TRIPS TO THE MECHANIC I HAVE REPAIRED THE ALTERNATOR TWICE, THE IDLE AIR CONTROL VALVE, BRAKES, MOTOR MOUNTS, DONE A TRANSMISSION FLUID CHANGE, AND HAVE HAD TO REPAIR 2 FLYWHEELS IN THE TRANSMISSION. THAT LIST DOES NOT INCLUDE THE GENERAL MAINTENANCE OF PLUGS, FILTERS, AND OIL. I CAN'T DEAL WITH THIS ANYMORE. THIS IS NOT ACTUALLY MY VEHICLE, THIS IS MY MOTHERS VEHICLE, BUT REGARDLESS OF WHO'S VEHICLE IT IS, THIS IS NOT ACCEPTABLE. WHAT IT BASICALLY IS DOING IS WHEN IT REACHES A CERTAIN MILEAGE IT WILL BASICALLY "KICK/JERK/PUSH FORWARD" (FOR A LACK OF TERMS) WHEN IT REACHES 12 MPH AND 32 MPH AND I'M CERTAIN OF OTHERS BUT MY MOTHER VIRTUALLY NEVER DRIVES ABOVE 45 MPH SO ANYTHING ABOVE THAT I'M UNCERTAIN OF. IT ALSO HAS A VERY HARD TIME ACCELERATING TO 20 MPH. ONCE IT'S ABOVE 20 MPH IT'S EASY AND ACCELERATES VERY FAST. MY MOTHER HAS NEARLY BEEN HIT TWICE DUE TO THIS INABILITY TO ACCELERATE AS FAST AS IT SHOULD. I HAVE TAKEN IT TOO HYUNDAI AND THEY REFUSED TO LOOK AT THE VEHICLE SAYING IT IS OUT OF WARRANTY, SO I TOOK IT TOO NUMEROUS DIFFERENT MECHANICS. I AM GETTING 3 DIFFERENT ANSWERS, SOMETHING IN THE FUEL/AIR LINE, ENGINE COMPUTER MODULE, AND TRANSMISSION. I DO NOT WANT TO HAVE TO PAY FOR ANY OF THESE REPAIRS SO I HAVEN'T DONE ANY OF THEM, BUT I AM THINKING THAT THIS DEFINITELY NEEDS TO BE REPORTED. THERE ARE TRANSMISSION AND ELECTRICAL ITEMS BEING REPORTED WHICH MAY BE RELATED TO THIS. IF THIS IS AS NUMEROUS AS I'M SEEING ON HERE, YOU MAY WANT TO ISSUE A RECALL ON THIS VEHICLE. ONCE IS A COINCIDENCE, 5 TIMES IS PHENOMENA, BUT OVER 20 TIMES IS AN EXPLICIT FAILURE BY THE COMPANY, NO MATTER IF THE VEHICLE IS 30 DAYS OLD OR 30 YEARS OLD.
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-04-22
- VIN: KMHCF34T1VU
- Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
- Summary: THE DRIVER SIDE DOOR LATCH ON MY '97 HYUNDAI SONATA BROKE AND ITS REALLY BIG SAFETY CONCERN. I'VE BEEN LOOKING ON THE INTERNET AND ITS NOT JUST ME WHO HAS THAT PROBLEM THE DOOR LATCH BREAKS EASILY AND IT COSTS A LOT OF MONEY TO GET IT FIXED SINCE THE PART COSTS $93 +. AND SINCE THE DOOR CAN'T OPEN ITS GOING TO COST A LOST OF MONEY FOR LABOR BECAUSE THEY HAVE TO GET THE DOOR OPENED SOMEHOW AND LABOR GOING TO BE VERY EXPENSIVE. HERE'S THE WEBSITE THAT REFERRED ME: HTTP://WWW.CARSURVEY.ORG/VIEWCOMMENTS_REVIEW_46625.HTML. *NM
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-06-30
- VIN: KMHCF24FXVU
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: 1997 HYUNDAI SONATA HAS DEFECTIVE FUEL TANK. LEAKING GAS FROM THE UPPER PART OF ON THE FUEL TANK. THERE WAS A RECALL ON THE TANK IN THE YEAR 2001..AND MY CAR WAS FIXED, HOWEVER IT HAS REOCCURED (SAME PROBLEM). I TOOK TO DEALER AND THEY WOULD NOT HONOR THE RECALL, DUE TO THE FACT IT HAD ALREADY BEEN DONE. I ALSO CALLED THE MANUFACTUROR AND THEY WOULD ALSO NOT HONOR. THERE IS ALSO A DEFECT IN THE DOOR LOCK, NOT ALLOWING THE DOOR TO EVEN OPEN.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-05-29
- VIN: KMHCF24F1VU
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: RECALL # 00V314001 1997 HYUNDAI SONATA I HAD CALLED DEALER TO ASK OF RECALL THEY HAD INFORMED ME THAT THIS VEHICLE HAS BEEN SERVICED FOR THIS PROBLEM THREE TIMES. AND THEY HAD SAID THAT IT IS OUT OF WARRANTY AND THEY WILL NOT REPAIR. MY QUESTION IS ARE THEY STILL RESPONSIBLE FOR THE DEFECT THAT HAS BEEN REPAIRED THREE TIMES. I AM LEAVING THE VIN # ALSO [XXX] PLEASE HELP THANKS. *JS INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-03-06
- VIN: KMHCF24F4VU
- Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
- Summary: THE POWER LOCKS ARE DEFECTIVE, WHEN PLACING THE KEY INTO THE LOCK THE PASSENGER LOCK WOULD NOT OPEN, WHEN THE CONSUMER WAS INSIDE THE VEHICLE ,THE LOCKING DEVICE WOULD NOT LIFT.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-11-12
- VIN: JMHEF24S0YU
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: RECALL 001V314001 CONCERNING FUEL TANK. AFTER HAVING RECALL REPAIRS DONE CONSUMER SMELLED GASOLINE ODORS, AND CHECK ENGINE LIGHT ILLUMINATED WHILE DRIVING. VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED ON FIVE SEPARATE TIMES BY THE DEALER, BUT PROBLEM RECURRED. CONSUMER COMPLAINED THAT THE DEALER WANTED TO CHARGE FOR THE NEXT REPAIRS. *AK
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-07-10
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: RECALL 00V314001 CONCERNING FUEL TANK. AFTER REFILLING THE FUEL TANK CONSUMER SMELLED STRONG GASOLINE ODOR. CONTACTED THE DEALER CONCERNING THIS RECALL. DEALER INFORMED CONSUMER THAT THIS VEHICLE WAS NOT COVERED UNDER THE RECALL DUE TO VIN. *AK
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-12-01
- VIN: KMHCF24F8VU
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: RECALL REGARDING GAS TANK PROBLEM.*MR WHILE DRIVING THE CONSUMER HIT A POTHOLE IN THE ROAD. SHORTLY AFTER ALL THE FUEL IN THE FUEL TANK LEAKED OUT. THE DEALER DID NOT SAVE THE TANK OR INSPECT IT FURTHER BECAUSE THE CONSUMER HIT A POTHOLE. SOMETIME IN 2001 THE CONSUMER RECEIVED A RECALL (00V-314001) REGARDING A GAS TANK PROBLEM. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A DEALER AND THE RECALL WORK WAS DONE. *NM
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-11-26
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: TRANSMISSION FAILURE
FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER,VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-03-01
- VIN: KMHCF24F5VU
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER,VISIBILITY
- Summary: FUEL TANK RECALLS BELOW HAVE NOT BEEN PROPERLY FIXED. FUEL TANK STILL TAKES ON TOO MUCH PRESSURE AND VEHICLE HAS ALSO FAILED EMISSIONS INSPECTION. WINDSHIELD WASHER MOTOR HAS FAILED TWICE (CURRENTLY BROKEN). HAZARD LIGHT SWITCH HAS FAILED 4 TIMES.*AK 1997 HYUNDAI SONATA L4-1997CC 2.0L DOHC MFI SAFETY RECALLS TSB NUMBER ISSUE DATE TSB TITLE 01-01-004 MAR 01 RECALL - CANISTER AIR FILTER REPLACEMENT EMISSIONS RECALLS TSB NUMBER ISSUE DATE TSB TITLE 01-01-004-1 APR 01 RECALL - CANISTER AIR INTAKE/FUEL TANK REPLACEMENT
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-07-02
- VIN: KMHCF24T1VU
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: AFTER MAKING SEVERAL APPOINTMENTS TO HAVE THE FUEL TANK RECALL 00V314001 PERFORMED THE PARTS WEREN'T AVAILABLE. *AK
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-09-18
- VIN: KMHCF24F8VU
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: ON SEPTEMBER 18, 1999 WHILE DRIVING ON BALTIMORE/WASHINGTON PRKWY, I APPROACHED AN AREA OF HIGHWAY WERE WORK WAS BEING DONE. I WAS NOW TRAVELING AT APPROXIMATELY 3-5 MPH. AT ONE POINT TRAFFIC CAME TO A COMPLETE STOP. AS I GLANCED DOWN AT MY INSTRUMENTAL PANEL THE AIRBAG INDICATOR LIGHT APPEARED TO BE FLICKERING, THE LIGHT STAYED ON FOR A FEW SECONDS, THEN WENT OUT. WHILE IN A STOPPED POSITION APPROXIMATELY (2) MINS AFTER AIRBAG LIGHT CAME ON, THE AIRBAGS BOTH THE DRIVER AND PASSENGER DEPLOYED. I WAS STARTLED BY THIS AND DID HOWEVER RELEASE THE PRESSURE ON THE BRAKES SLIGHTLY BUMPING THE VEHICLE AHEAD OF ME. THERE WAS NO DAMAGE TO THE OTHER VEHICLE AND LITTLE DAMAGE TO THE BUMPER OF MY CAR. THE MAJOR DAMAGE IS FROM THE INTERIOR OF MY CAR FROM THE AIRBAGS. PLEASE BE AWARE THE AIRBAGS DEPLOYED BEFORE MY CAR CAME INTO CONTACT WITH THE OTHER VEHICLE. *SCC *JB
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-09-01
- VIN: KMHCF24F3VU
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: CHECK ENGINE LIGHT STAYS ON AFTER DEALERSHIPS TRIED TO FIX MULIPLE TIMES. I HAVE SPEND ABOUT 3,000 DALLORS OF MY MONEY TO FIX THE CAR. THE DEALERSHIP HAS FINALLY TOLD ME THAT THEY DO NOT KNOW WHAT IS WRONG WITH THE CAR. THE CAR WANTS TO STALL AT A STOP AND THE IDLE JUMPS AROUD WHILE DRIVING DOWN THE ROAD. THE CAR REALLY ACTS UP WHEN YOU HAVE THE A/C ON.*AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-03-01
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,EQUIPMENT
- Summary: MY VEHICLES CHECK ENGINE LIGHT HAS BEEN ON FOR WELL OVER A YEAR NOW. I BELIEVE THIS PROBLEM IS DUT TO A MANUFACTURER'S DEFECT AND I SHOULD NOT HAVE TO COME OUT OF MY POCKET TO PAY FOR A COMPANY'S MISHAP. I WOULD LIKE THE PROBLEM TO BE CORRECTED AS SOON AS POSSIBLE.*AK
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-11-25
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Number Of Deaths: 1
- Crash: 1
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: PASSENGER SIDE AIR BAG DEPLOYED AT LOW SPEED, UNDER 5 MPH, KILLING FRONT SEAT PASSENGER.*AK THE SONATA HIT THE REAR END OF A VEHICLE DEPLOYING BOTH THE DRIVER AND PASSENGER FRONT BAG. THE CONSUMER DOES NOT KNOW FOR CERTAIN IF THE 5 YEAR OLD CHILD IN THE FRONT PASSENGER SEAT WAS BELTED. THE CONSUMER DOES NOT BELIEVE THE CHILD WAS. THE CHILD SUSTAINED LACERATIONS TO THE NECK, SPINAL CORD INJURIES AND BRAIN DAMAGE. THE CHILD WAS PRONOUNCED DEAD AT THE SCENE.CW
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-05-28
- VIN: KMHCF24F9VU
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: THE EVAPORATIVE EMISSION CONTROL SYSTEMS MAY APPLY EXCESSIVE VACUUM TO THE FUEL TANKS DURING THE CANISTER PURGE CYCLE. MINOR FUEL TANK DISTORTION COULD RESULT. A SMALL CRACK COULD DEVELOP ON THE UPPER FUEL TANK SURFACE. THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT WOULD THEN ILLUMINATE AND, IN SOME CASES, THE VEHICLE DRIVER NOTICED A GASOLINE ODOR. THIS RECALL FAILED . *TT
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-01-25
- VIN: KMHCF24T2VU
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: I AM WRITING TO COMPLAIN AGAINST DIFEO HYUNDAI, HUDSON MALL, RT. 440, JERSEY CITY, NJ. I HAD THE FOLLOWING RECALLS DONE ON MY HYUNDAI SONATA 97 (VIN [XXX]) FROM DIFEO IN JANUARY, 03: NHTSA CAMPAIGN: 97V026000. NHTSA CAMPAIGN: 00V314001 DIFEO HAD TO REPLACE THE FUEL TANK AS A PART OF THE RECALL. SOON AFTER THE RECALL WAS DONE, I NOTICED THAT THE FUEL GAUGE NEEDLE WAS STUCK ON THE UPPER END. SPOKE TO DIFEO SERVICE MANAGER [XXX] ABOUT THIS PROBLEM ON 2/14/03 AND TOOK AN APPTMENT FOR 2/18/03 MORNING. CONFIRMED THE APPTMENT BEFORE LEAVING ON 2/18/03. HOWEVER, ON REACHING THE SERVICE CENTER I WAS TURNED AWAY BECAUSE IT WAS CLOSED FOR THE DAY. THIS IS NOT THE FIRST TIME DIFEO HAS SHOWN SUCH UNPROFESSIONAL ATTITUDE IN SERVICING THE RECALL. 1.WHEN I APPROACHED DIFEO THE FIRST TIME IN NOVEMBER 2002, THE DEALER REFUSED ANY KNOWLEDGE OF A RECALL. HAD TO HAVE HYUNDAI USA CALL THEM UP TO INFORM ABOUT THE RECALL. 2.AFTER THIS WHEN I WENT TO THE SERVICE CENTER ON 1/11/03 THE REPRESENTATIVE THERE (MIKE), AGAIN REFUSED ANY KNOWLEDGE OF SUCH A RECALL. 3.AGAIN HAD TO GO BACK TO HYUNDAI USA FOR HELP. HAD [XXX] AT 1800 633 5151 X [XXX] TALK TO [XXX]. ONLY THEN DID DIFEO AGREE TO SERVICE THE RECALL. 4.FINALLY DROPPED OFF THE CAR ON 1/25/03. MIKE FROM DIFEO INFORMED ME THE SAME EVENING THAT THE CAR WAS READY FOR PICKUP. HOWEVER, ON REACHING THE SERVICE CENTER I WAS INFORMED THAT CAR WAS NOT READY YET AND THE GAS TANK WOULD HAVE TO BE REPLACED. 5.FINALLY THE FUEL TANK WAS REPLACED. AM SURE THE PROBLEM WITH THE FUEL GAUGE HAS OCCURRED BECAUSE OF DIFEO'S POOR WORKMANSHIP. I AM APPREHENSIVE IF DRIVING THE CAR IN ITS PRESENT STATE MIGHT ENDANGER MY SAFETY. DIFEO WAS HESITANT TO SERVICE THE RECALL IN THE BEGINNING AND WHEN FORCED, DID A SHODDY JOB OUT OF IT. I DEMAND THAT DIFEO PICK UP THE CAR FROM MY RESIDENCE AND DROP IT BACK AFTER DOING A THOROUGH JOB OF THE RECALL. I REQUEST YOU TO GET ME SOME RELIEF FROM THIS HARASSMENT. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-03-07
- VIN: KMHCF24F5VU
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: THE FUEL TANK CRACKED AND LEAKED GASOLINE. *JB
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-02-20
- VIN: PLEASE PROV
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: THE VEHICLE EXPERIENCED THE SAME PROBLEM AS STATED IN RECALL #97V026000, HOWEVER THE VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION NUMBER WAS NOT INCLUDED IN THE RECALL.*JB
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-09-02
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: FUEL TANK WAS LEAKING GAS WHILE DRIVING. CONTACTED DEALER, AND THE DEALER STATED THAT LEAK CAME FROM THE UPPER PART OF THE FUEL TANK.*AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-06-01
- VIN: KMHCF24F8VU
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: CONSUMER STATES THE VEHICLE WOULD NOT START, DEALER SAID TIMING BELT BROKE AND CAUSED THE CRANK SENSOR AND TIMING SENSOR TO BREAK, HOWEVER AFTER REPAIRS THE VEHICLE STILL WOULD NOT START, CONSUMER WAS INFORMED THAT THE PROBLEM WAS NOT WITH THE STARTER, BUT POSSIBLY WITH THE HEAD. *YD
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-02-25
- VIN: KMHCF24F6VU
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: RECALL 00 V 314 001/FUEL TANK: RECALL REPAIRS WERE DONE IN APRIL 27, 2001, AND PROBLEM HAS REOCCURRED. DEALER/MANUFACTURER WERE NOTIFIED. *AK WHEN CONSUMER INFORMED DEALER THAT FUEL TANK WAS LEAKING AS A RESULT OF THE RECALL REPAIRS, THEY INDICATED THAT THE LEAK WAS CAUSED BY CONSUMER'S PERSONAL MECHANIC AND WOULD NOT ATTEMPT TO FIX THE PROBLEM OF EXCESSIVE VACCUM NOR REPLACE THE FUEL TANK WITHOUT CHARGE. *TT
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-02-23
- VIN: KMHCF24F0WA
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: CONSUMER STATES HAVING PROBLEMS WITH THEIR BRAKES CAUSING VEHICLE UNABLE TO STOP.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-12-07
- VIN: KMHCF24F1VU
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: FUEL TANK HAS DEVELOPED CRACKS AND A FUEL SMELL IS PRESENT. 1) IN DEC 2000 AND MAR 2001 FUEL TANK REPLACED BECAUSE OF CRACKS ON TOP OF FUEL TANK; 2) IN APRIL 2001 SERVICE FOR RECALL 00V314001 WAS PERFORMED; 3) IN OCTOBER 2001 FUEL WAS LEAKING FROM A SEAL BETWEEN FUEL TANK AND A PIPE, LEADING TO ENGINE, RESULTING IN FUEL TANK BEING REPLACED FOR FOURTH TIME AND 4) IN NOVEMBER 2001 FUEL SMELL WAS PRESENT AGAIN AND DEALERSHIP WAS DIAGNOSING THE PROBLEM. *AK THE FUEL GAUGE OPERATION STAYS ON FULL THEN DROPS DRASTICALLY DUE TO FUEL SENDER/PUMP FAILURE. THE DEALER REPLACED THE GAS TANK CAP. THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT COMES ON DUE TO PURGE VALVE FAILURE. CONSUMER WAS ASKING FOR REIMBURSEMENT. *YH
1997 Hyundai Sonata recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 1997 Hyundai Sonata.
- Manufacturer: HYUNDAI MOTOR COMPANY
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: ACCENT GT MODEL VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH DOHC ENGINES MANUFACTURED FROM DECEMBER 19, 1996 THROUGH JUNE 30, 1997; 1998 ACCENT MODEL VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM MAY 6, 1997 THROUGH JUNE 25, 1998; 1997 SONATA VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM AUGUST 1, 1996 THROUGH JULY 9, 1997 AND 1998 SONATA VEHICLES PRODUCED FROM JULY 9, 1997 THROUGH APRIL 24, 1998. THE EVAPORATIVE EMISSION CONTROL SYSTEMS MAY APPLY EXCESSIVE VACUUM TO THE FUEL TANKS DURING THE CANISTER PURGE CYCLE. MINOR FUEL TANK DISTORTION COULD RESULT. A SMALL CRACK COULD DEVELOP ON THE UPPER FUEL TANK SURFACE. THE "CHECK ENGINE" LIGHT WOULD THEN ILLUMINATE AND, IN SOME CASES, THE VEHICLE DRIVER COULD NOTICE A GASOLINE ODOR.
- Consequence: FUEL LEAKAGE IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE CAN RESULT IN A FIRE.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL PRESSURE CHECK THE VEHICLE'S FUEL TANK TO DETERMINE IF IT HAS CRACKED. IF IT IS CRACKED, A NEW FUEL TANK WILL BE INSTALLED. A NEW FUEL FILLER CAP THAT DECREASES THE AMOUNT OF VACUUM INSIDE THE FUEL TANK WILL ALSO BE INSTALLED. NOTE: THE 1997-1998 SONATA FUEL TANKS HAVE ALSO EXPERIENCED CRACKING. HOWEVER, AT THIS TIME, THE CAUSE FOR THE CRACKING HAS NOT BEEN IDENTIFIED. THIS PORTION OF THE CAMPAIGN WILL BEGIN AFTER HYUNDAI HAS DETERMINED THE CAUSE AND CORRECTIVE PROCEDURE.
- 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 1997 Hyundai Sonata car reviews
Positive 1997 Hyundai Sonata car reviews
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I hope you're doing well! I just wanted to share that I purchased my 1997 Sonata 5 1/2 years ago with 80,000 miles at a cash price of $3,500 and it's still running great! I absolutely adore it and I'm actually considering purchasing another one. I haven't had any major issues with it, which is fantastic!
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The car ran great until 90,000. However, I had to redo the transmission and air conditioning.
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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 still didn't give me any trouble.
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If this car is not better than the Honda Accord, then the Accord isn't either. I absolutely loved this very cool car and highly recommend it. It's also very affordable and compatible. It's simply beautiful!
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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.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1997 Hyundai Sonata problems:
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Get 1997 Hyundai Sonata repair and maintenance costs, common problems, recalls, and more. Find certified Hyundai mechanics near you.
Common 2007 Hyundai Sonata Transmission Problems - Q&A
Nov 29, 2018 ... 07 Hyundai Sonata, auto transmission, 4 cyl. I'm having shifting problems. When the engine is cold the car will lurch - Answered by a ...
2002 Hyundai Sonata Problems and Complaints - 8 Issues
... known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 2002 Hyundai Sonata ... common issues based on car owner complaints ... 1997 Hyundai Sonata problems. (2).
1997 Sonata Central Locking Problem | Hyundai Forums
Feb 1, 2005 ... Also sometimes when you open the door the locks just go up and down by themself... Is this a common issue, and if so, are there any common ...
Other years of Hyundai Sonata
Are you having problems with your 1997 Hyundai Sonata?
Ewell Douglas 2024-11-25
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!
Fidel Prohaska 2024-07-23
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.
Erling Kris 2024-05-27
I really like this car a lot. I drove it for about a week some time ago and when I heard that it was for sale, I immediately offered to buy it. What left a lasting impression on me about this car was the power of the engine. It really makes the most of its 3.0 V6. I've driven cars with comparable engines, but this one outperforms them by far. The interior is very comfortable and of good quality. Power windows, locks, and a moon roof are all nice features to have. Overall, it's a pretty nice car.
Waino Sawayn 2024-04-11
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!
Valentin Howe 2024-01-07
I bought my Sonata used a couple years ago. It ran fine for about six months. However, when it hit 100,000 it started to have some issues. Unfortunately, I've had to take it to the shop about twice a month for the last year and a half. It has been quite a headache. I would suggest considering other options before purchasing this car.