2008 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Sonata, which was introduced in 1985, was a facelifted version of the Hyundai Stellar with an engine upgrade, and was withdrawn from the market in two years due to poor customer reaction.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.
Social links
Common 2008 Hyundai Sonata problems
Based on the complaints from owners of the 2008 Hyundai Sonata, several common problems have been reported:
- Engine Failure: Engine failure was a significant problem reported by drivers of the 2011, 2012, and 2013 Hyundai Sonatas. Many drivers experienced engines seizing up after hearing knocking noises while driving, leading to a loss of power, brakes, and steering. This issue resulted in a class-action lawsuit against Hyundai, with a settlement fee of $8.5 million in 2016.
- Shifting Problems: Owners of the 2012 Hyundai Sonata faced challenges with shifting gears due to a faulty speed sensor. This issue caused vehicles to shudder, grind, and produce clunking noises when shifting from park to drive. Some owners even reported a lack of gear selection display on the dashboard or gear shift.
- Defective Speakers: Another common issue with the Hyundai Sonata was defective speakers. Some models from 2011-2016 experienced problems with the CD player, navigation, radio, and phone calls not producing audio. A hard reset was often required to resolve this issue by disconnecting and reconnecting the negative battery terminal.
- Other Minor Problems: Additional problems reported included steering issues, premature timing chain tensioner and timing belt failure, corroded suspension components, and faulty lighting. Some models also faced issues with parking lights remaining illuminated after the engine was turned off, leading to a drained battery.
These problems highlight the range of issues that owners of the 2008 Hyundai Sonata faced, from safety concerns to mechanical failures and electrical issues. Addressing these issues promptly and ensuring proper maintenance can help mitigate these common problems.
Is Hyundai Sonata 2008 a good car?
Though lacking refinement in a few areas, the 2008 Hyundai Sonata still ranks highly with us thanks to its fine performance, spacious cabin and value for the dollar.
What is the problem with the 2008 Hyundai Sonata?
There are some serious problems with the 2008 Sonata including engine failures, excessive brake wear, and broken door handles. Seized engines are the most common and serious problem with the Sonata, happening at around 100,000 miles. The only way to fix the problem is to replace the engine, costing over $4,000.
What is the most common problem with Hyundai Sonata?
A list of some of the most common issues Sonata owners have to deal with.
- ZF-TRW Crash Sensor Defect. ...
- ABS Fire. ...
- Rodents Chew Hyundai's Soy Wiring. ...
- Seat Belts Detatch During Crash. ...
- Blue Link Standard Feature? ...
- Hyundai Theta II Engine Knocking, Seizing, and Sludge. ...
- Panoramic Sunroof Explodes. ...
- Hyundai's Self-Peeling Paint.
How many miles can a 2008 Hyundai Sonata last?
200,000 to 250,000 miles
When it comes to longevity, the Sonata is estimated to last 200,000 to 250,000 miles or 13 to 17 years with regular maintenance.
2008 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:
- Air bags problems
- Visibility problems
- Service brakes problems
- Engine problems
- Electrical system problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2008 Hyundai Sonata vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2008 Hyundai Sonata
The NHTSA has received 421 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2008 Hyundai Sonata. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2008 Hyundai Sonata vehicles.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-27
- VIN: 5NPET46C48H
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2008 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated that the air bag warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer to be repaired under NHTSA Campaign Number: 08V161000 (Air Bags); however, the dealer informed the contact that he had to pay for a diagnostic test prior to the recall repair. The contact declined. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure but provided no assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 181,000.
STEERING,SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-24
- VIN: 5NPEU46F58H
- Components: STEERING,SUSPENSION
- Summary: The contact's grandson owns a 2008 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated that while driving on several occasions at various speeds and driving over a bump in the roadway, the rear end of the vehicle started fishtailing from left to right. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed that the tie rod and control arms needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired but the failure persisted. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 142,000.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-02-01
- VIN: 5NPET46C58H
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2008 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the air bag warning light illuminated the instrument panel. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who diagnosed failures with the passenger's side occupancy sensor and occupant classification system. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure but did not assist. The failure mileage was unknown.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-01-16
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 5NPET46F48H
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The car was parked and turned off, not being driven and ignited on its own. The entire front end of the vehicle was on fire, according to the fire department it was some type of electrical short that started the fire. Vehicle was totaled out as it was a complete loss.
AIR BAGS,SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-12-13
- VIN: 5NPEU46F28H
- Components: AIR BAGS,SEATS
- Summary: Took vehicle to independent Hyundai factory trained technician due to air bag light. Was advised this is due to failure of Occupant Classification System sensor in front passenger seat. This is related to NHTSA Campaign 08V161000, but technician advised my VIN was not listed under this recall. Technician advised me to contact Hyundai due to the recall and inquire if my vehicle could be covered, since leaving unaddressed could cause injury or death during collision. Manufacturer is aware of issue due to previous recall cited above. Spoke with Hyundai customer service phone line on 12/13/2022 and informed of issue, asking if the recall would cover my vehicle even though my VIN was not indicated in the previous recall. Customer service advised this could not be done. Asked customer service to file complaint about known safety issue and was given case #20713402. Customer service advised I could pay for repairs out of pocket and receive refund if recall was later issued. Action requested: expand recall 08V161000 to include additional 2008 Hyundai Sonatas exhibiting same manufacturer defect which is a risk to public safety.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-11-05
- VIN: 5NPET46C38H
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: AIR BAG light is on, with defect in Occupant Classification System (passenger weight sensor), with OCS system lights flashing erratically with no passenger in seat. Hyundai dealer and corporation keep telling me that there is no relevant campaign related to my vehicle. There is information for "Campaign 083 – 2006 – 2008 Sonata – Occupant Classification System (OCS) Reprogramming" online. Internally labeled as 08-01-006 Body Electrical issue. Campaign clearly states that problem is to be fixed on individual customer basis, meaning it wouldn't show up as a official recall. Hyundai currently refuses to take responsibility.
VISIBILITY/WIPER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-09-24
- VIN: 5NPET46F68H
- Components: VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: Passenger side sun visor suddenly rotated down and will not stay up. This blocks drivers view. A few weeks prior to total failure, the visor would not stay completely up but was only about 10 degrees down. There is a plastic tube with a metal tube inside which the visor pivots on. The plastic tube is broken allowing it to hang straight down. If/when the same breakage occurs on the drivers side it could cause an accident due to blocking vision.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-04-04
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 5NPEU46F38H
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: Just about 2 months ago i exit my vehicle after parking up. As i exit i smelled a burning smell and heard sparks so i stepped away from vehicle asap and then the horn start honking and lights flashing on own. Then the car started up by itself and started to run without me in car and keys in my hand. Police came from noise distubing and took the battery off to stop. After that i couldnt start car so had towed in shop for 5 weeks. Hot out of shop and can start now but now my a.c. and windows doesnt work because mechanic said that something keep blowing those fuses out and if he puts yhem back in then the car will go back to not starting. I am guessing this is part of the recall.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-09-09
- VIN: 5NPET46C28H
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
- Summary: Manufacturer has REFUSED to return My calls. Dragged me down there for an appointment, made me wait. Just to tell me they didn't order the specific part even though I made the appointment months in advanced.... and to call back in a week. That was September (6 months ago). I called, multiple times. Either I get no answer, voice mail, hung up on, laughed at OR told that they will urgently call me right back. All to no call back . I've reached out on social media, email, called managers, no one has followed up, Horne Hyundai AZ is a joke! And so is the surrounding certified dealers. No one has reached out and I've tried all outlets to dealers (somewhat) near me. No one finds this serious so if I get injured on the campus much longer and i will regret it.
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-07-06
- VIN: 5npet46c68h
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: Hello, I recently purchased a 2008 Hyundai Sonata in Germany and entered the VIN on your website. I noticed that there is an outstanding recall, Manufacturer Recall Number 110 and NHTSA Recall Number 13V113000. I contacted the local dealership in Frankfurt and they informed me that I needed to coordinate with Hyundai North America because my vehicle had U.S. specifications. I contacted [email protected] in July 2021 and provided all of the information/documentation requested. Hyundai assigned a Consumer Affairs Case number: 18365036 and assured me that they would send the part to the dealership in Frankfurt ad that they would notify me once the part arrived so that they could take care of the recall. I never heard back or received any further updates. In December 2021, while I was in the U.S., I called Hyundai and requested to speak to someone at their Executive Office that handled complaints. I spoke with "Momo" who informed me that my case had been closed. I provided my contact information, including email, and asked that she look at the numerous email strings related to my case, including one that confirmed that the issue would be resolved. "Momo" assured me that she would escalate the matter and that someone would contact me to resolve the issue. I have not heard from Hyundai since my conversation with "Momo" and have sent a couple of emails requesting an update but haven't received a response. I would respectfully request that a formal investigation be initiated by your office to look into the negligent and unresponsive attitude by Hyundai towards recalls. My experience has reinforced the concern that I had that Hyundai is not committed to the safety of the American consumer and a complete disregard to your office's authority. Hyundai has al of the information that they need to take fix the issue with their vehicle but choose to ignore it. I have bent over backwards to provide everything requested and Hyundai has the string of emails to confirm.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-11-17
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 5NPET46C88H
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: I put the car in reverse while parked in a parking lot, when I put the car in reverse, the car took off at a high rate of speed striking one vehicle and continued at a high speed in reverse about 20 or 30 feet also hitting a return cart station, knocking it over and the car still proceeded to crash into a large parked pickup truck causing significant damage to the truck and also my vehicle. The brakes would not stop the car. The car finally stopped after the hard impact with the truck. My car has been deemed a total by my insurance.
VISIBILITY/WIPER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-09-13
- VIN: 5NPET46F18H
- Components: VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: The driver side sun visor on my 2008 hyundai sonata is defective. The visor will not stay up and hangs down obstructing the drivers vision. This is a serious safety issue! This seems to be an issue on many 2008 hyundai sonatas The only recall is for 2006-2007. Yet this dangerous issue is happening on other years. Please resolve this
AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-05-01
- VIN: 5NPET46F48H
- Components: AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS
- Summary: "AIR BAG" light stays on. Passenger side seatbelt light blinks on and off. Likely a Sensor issue, but seems to be a recurring problem with 2008 Sonatas.
AIR BAGS,STRUCTURE,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-03-01
- VIN: 5NPET46C18H
- Components: AIR BAGS,STRUCTURE,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: THE FRONT DRIVER SIDE DOOR HANDLE HAS CAME OFF AND SO HAS THE PASSENGER SIDE. THE INSIDE DOOR HANDLE ON THE DRIVER SIDE HAS CAME OFF AND THE DRIVER SIDE DOOR IS TOTALLY INOPERABLE. THIS S A TOTAL SAFETY HAZARD IN THE EVENT OF AN EMERGENCY, A CAR CRASH GOD FORBID OR EVEN THE CAR CATCHING FIRE. GETTING TO SAFETY WOULD BE VERY DIFFICULT. I CANT AFFORD TO CONTINUING FIXING AN ISSUE THAT IS DEFECTED TO BEGIN WITH. THE BRAKE LIGHTS DOESN'T ILLUMINATE ALL TIME WHEN ENGAGED AND MY AIR BAG LIGHTS ARE ON AND MY CAR SWAYS IN THE BACK DUE TO THE CONTROL ARM BEING RUSTED
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-11-16
- VIN: 5NPET46C68H
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 HYUNDAI SONATA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE AIR BAG WARNING LIGHT WAS ILLUMINATED ON THE INSTRUMENT PANEL. THE CONTACT INITIALLY TOOK THE VEHICLE TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO INFORMED HER OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 08V161000 (AIR BAGS) WHICH HE LINKED TO THE FAILURE. THE CONTACT THEN TOOK THE VEHICLE TO GURNEE HYUNDAI (6251 GRAND AVE, GURNEE, IL 60031) WHERE A DIAGNOSTIC TEST WAS PERFORMED AND THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION SYSTEM MAT NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED. THE CONTACT WAS PROVIDED AN ESTIMATE FOR THE REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER HAD YET TO BE NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE HAD YET TO BE REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 82,900.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-03-25
- VIN: 5NPEU46C28H
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: MY ERVIN CEASED UP ON THE HIGHWAY AT 60 MPH. IT THRU AN ENGIN ROD.THE ENGIN OIL MADE IT IMPOSSIBLE TO SEE ANYTHING. NOW AFTER JUST BUYING THIS CAR USED, THERE ARE NO ENGINES AVAILABLE FOR REPLACEMENT. TOO MANY HAVE BLOWN UP. AND HYUNDAI SAYS THEY ARE NOT BEING RECALLED. SAME ENGIN AS THE FAILURES WITH THE FATALITIES.I AM STUCK.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-08-31
- VIN: 5NPEU46F88H
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: WHILE PASSING A VEHICLE TRAVELING APPROXIMATELY 40 MPH IN A 50MPH ZONE, MY 2008 HYUNDAI SONATA EXPERIENCED 'SUDDEN UNINTENDED ACCELERATION' APPROACHING A SPEED OF 65-70 MPH. EVEN AFTER APPLYING FIRM CONTINUOUS PRESSURE ON BRAKE PEDAL WAS UNABLE TO SLOW VEHICLE DOWN. WHILE CONTINUING TO APPLY PRESSURE TO BRAKE PEDAL, I SHIFTED AUTOMATIC GEAR SHIFT INTO NEUTRAL AND WAS ABLE TO GRADUALLY COAST ONTO THE SHOULDER OF THE ROAD. WHEN VEHICLE CAME TO A COMPLETE STOP. THE ENGINE WAS STILL RUNNING AT A VERY HIGH RPM AND SOUNDED AS IF IT WERE A JET AIRPLANE TAKING OFF. TURNED IGNITION OFF AND LET CAR SIT FOR 1-2 MINUTES WHILE I CONTEMPLATED 'NOW WHAT?' WAS UNABLE TO PUT CAR IN PARK, SO STARTED CAR IN NEUTRAL. WAS ABLE TO MOVE GEAR SHIFT TO DRIVE AND CAREFULLY DROVE CAR HOME. CALLED HYUNDAI CORPORATE OFFICE NEXT MORNING (MONDAY AUGUST 31, 2020) TO REPORT MY FRIGHTENING AND VERY DANGEROUS EXPERIENCE. THEN CALLED MY LOCAL HYUNDAI DEALER TO REPORT AND REQUEST THEY COME AND PICK THE VEHICLE UP AS I DID NOT FEEL IT WAS SAFE TO DRIVE.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-06-10
- VIN: 5NPET46C08H
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: THE PASSENGER SEAT AIR BAG SENSOR MAT IS MALFUNCTIONED. THERE HAS BEEN A RECALL FOR THE ITEM AND IT'S EVERYWHERE ONLINE BUT YET MY CAR WASN'T IN THE RECALL BUT IT'S THE SAME EXACT PROBLEM. I HAVE CONTACTED COMPANY THEY WON'T SAY WHY ONLY SOME CARS WERE IN THE RECALL BUT YET MINE WASN'T EVEN THOUGH IT'S SAME PROBLEM.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-07-08
- VIN: 5NPET46F68H
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: THE AIRBAG LIGHT WENT ON ON THE DASHBOARD AND THE 'PASSENGER AIRBAG OFF' LIGHT WAS NO LONGER ILLUMINATED WHEN THERE IS NO ONE SITTING IN THE SEAT. ERROR CODE B1448 WAS FOUND TO BE THE ERROR, WHICH IS A FAULTY PASSENGER SEAT SENSOR MAT. I HAVE SMALL CHILDREN AND THIS MAY BE AN ISSUE BECAUSE THE AIRBAG WILL ALWAYS DEPLOY REGARDLESS OF WHO IS SITTING THERE. THIS HAPPENED WHILE STATIONARY UPON TURNING THE CAR ON ONE DAY.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING,VISIBILITY/WIPER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-06-01
- VIN: 5NPET46F68H
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING,VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: THE HEADLIGHTS ON MY CAR ARE ANGLED TOO LOW WHILE USING LOW-BEAMS AND THE VISIBILITY AT NIGHT IS BAD. THIS HAS BEEN AN ISSUE FOR THE ENTIRE TIME I HAVE HAD THIS CAR AND I AM NOW AWARE THAT I CAN FILE A COMPLAINT AGAINST IT. HIGH-BEAMS SEEM TO FUNCTION OK.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-04-24
- VIN: 5NPET46C28H
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: RED AIRBAG WARNING LIGHT IS ON. PASSENGER AIR BAG LIGHT ALWAYS OFF, EVEN IF SEAT IS EMPTY. RED PASSENGER SEATBELT LIGHT ALWAYS FLASHING UNTIL SEAT BELT IS LATCHED, EVEN IF THERE IS NO ONE SITTING IN SEAT. THIS IS WHILE VEHICLE IS IN MOTION. RECEIVED B1448 ERROR CODE. DEALER SAYS VIN ISN'T IN THE RECALL. I HAVE CALLED 2 LOCAL HYUNDAI DEALERS AND HYUNDAI CORPORATE. SAME ANSWER.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-04-01
- VIN: 5NPEU46F08H
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: AIR BAG LIGHT HAS COME ON AND HASN'T GONE OFF...MECHANIC SAY IT MAY BE A SENOR BUT WHEN I LOOKED UP THE VIN TO CHECK OPEN RECALLS NOTHING POPS UP BUT FROM FURTHER READING THIS IS A MAIN ISSUE WITH THESE VECHILES
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-03-16
- VIN: 5NPET46F08H
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 HYUNDAI SONATA. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING AT 55 MPH, THE VEHICLE OVERHEATED WITH THE LOW OIL LEVEL WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC TO BE DIAGNOSED. THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE ENGINE NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. NEITHER A DEALER NOR THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 236,000.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-02-22
- VIN: 5NPET46F38H
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: AIRBAG LIGHT CAME ON WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS IN MOTION AND HAS NOT TURNED OFF.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-11-29
- VIN: 5NPET46C98H
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: THE AIRBAG LIGHT IS ON AND THE PASSENGER SEAT BELT SIGN IS OFF. THE VEHICLE WAS IN MOTION.
2008 Hyundai Sonata recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 5 recalls for different components of the 2008 Hyundai Sonata.
- Manufacturer: Hyundai Motor Company
- Components: SUSPENSION:REAR
- Summary: Hyundai is recalling certain model year 2006-2010 Sonata vehicles manufactured March 1, 2005, through January 21, 2010; and model year 2006-2011 Azera vehicles manufactured September 27, 2005, through November 22, 2010 originally sold in, or currently registered in, Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, West Virginia, Wisconsin and the District of Columbia. Road salt and water can enter portions of the rear crossmember, leading to corrosion of the crossmember steel. This may lead to detachment of one of the rear control arms.
- Consequence: Control arm separation may suddenly change the rear wheel alignment, affecting the handling of the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will repair or replace the crossmember assembly. The recall began on October 8, 2013. Owners may contact Hyundai Customer Care Center at 1-800-633-5151. Hyundai's recall number is 113.
- Manufacturer: Hyundai Motor Company
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING:BRAKE LIGHTS:SWITCH
- Summary: Hyundai Motor Company (Hyundai) is recalling certain model year 2006-2009 Accent, model year 2007-2011 Azera, Sonata and Sante Fe,2006-2011 Tucson, 2009-2011 Elantra Touring, 2007-2010 Elantra, 2008-2011 Veracruz, 2009-2011 Genesis, 2010-2011 Genesis Coupe, 2007-2008 Entourage, and 2006-2008 Tiburon vehicles. Originally, in April 2013, Hyundai recalled 1,059,824 model year 2007-2009 Accent and Tucson, model year 2007-2010 Elantra, model year 2007-2011 Santa Fe, model year 2008-2009 Veracruz, model year 2010-2011 Genesis Coupe, and model year 2011 Sonata vehicles. In September 2013, Hyundai informed the agency that it was adding more vehicles to this campaign, representing an additional 652,512 units. The total number of vehicles being recalled is now 1,712,336. In the affected vehicles, the stop lamp switch may malfunction. A malfunctioning stop lamp switch may cause the brake lights to not illuminate when the brake pedal is depressed or may cause an inability to deactivate the cruise control by depressing the brake pedal. Additionally, a malfunctioning stop lamp switch may also result in intermittent operation of the push-button start feature, affect the operation of the brake transmission shift interlock feature, preventing the shifter from being moved out of the PARK position and cause the Electronic Stability Control (ESC) malfunction light to illuminate.
- Consequence: Failure to illuminate the stop lamps during braking or inability to disengage the cruise control could increase the risk of a crash. Additionally, when the ignition is in the 'ON' position, the transmission shifter may be able to be moved out of Park without first applying the brake. This may lead to unintentional movement of the car which may increase the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will replace the stop lamp switch, free of charge. The safety recall began on April 22, 2013. Owners may contact Hyundai at 1-800-633-5151. Hyundai's recall campaign number is 110.
- Manufacturer: SABERSPORT
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: SABERSPORT IS RECALLING 16,270 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.
- Consequence: DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: SABERSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 11, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SABERSPORT AT 1-909-598-7589.
- Manufacturer: Hyundai Motor Company
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: HYUNDAI IS RECALLING 393,308 MY 2006-2008 SONATA VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH AN ADVANCED AIR BAG SYSTEM WHICH FEATURES AN OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION SYSTEM (OCS) IN THE RIGHT FRONT SEAT. THE PURPOSE OF THE OCS IS TO DISABLE THE RIGHT PASSENGER SEAT FRONT AIR BAG WHEN IT DETECTS THE PRESENCE OF A CHILD RESTRAINT SYSTEM OR SMALL CHILD IN THE RIGHT FRONT SEAT. THE RIGHT FRONT AIR BAG IS DISABLED TO PREVENT INJURIES TO A CHILD THAT MAY RESULT FROM A RIGHT FRONT AIR BAG INFLATION DURING A CRASH.
- Consequence: MISCLASSIFICATION OF A SMALL STATURE ADULT AS A CHILD IN THE RIGHT FRONT PASSENGER SEAT MAY CAUSE THE RIGHT FRONT AIR BAG TO NOT INFLATE IN AN ACCIDENT THAT MERITS AIR BAG DEPLOYMENT AND MAY RESULT IN INJURY TO THE RIGHT FRONT OCCUPANT.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL VERIFY THAT THE OCS DOES NOT PROPERLY RECOGNIZE A PROPERLY SEATED ADULT OCCUPANT. AFTER VERIFICATION, DEALERS WILL REMOVE THE RIGHT FRONT SEAT CUSHION ASSEMBLY AND SHIP IT TO AN EVALUATION AND REPAIR FACILITY. THIS FACILITY WILL EVALUATE AND REPAIR OR REPROGRAM THE SEAT CUSHION AND OCS AS NECESSARY. THE RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN ON OR ABOUT MAY 26, 2008. OWNERS MAY CONTACT HYUNDAI AT 1-800-633-5151.
- Manufacturer: Hyundai Motor Company
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
- Summary: HYUNDAI-KIA IS RECALLING 4,085 REPLACEMENT HEADLAMP ASSEMBLIES SOLD FOR USE ON 2006-2008 SONATA AND AZERA VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMP ASSEMBLIES MAY NOT HAVE BEEN ALIGNED PROPERLY AND FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE PHOTOMETRIC REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
- Consequence: IMPROPER AIMING OF THE HEADLAMP MAY RESULT IN POOR VISIBILITY POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: HYUNDAI-KIA DEALERS HAVE BEEN NOTIFIED AND INSTRUCTED TO RETURN THEIR SUPPLY TO HYUNDAI MOTOR AMERICA. NONE OF THE HEADLAMPS WERE SOLD AS RETAIL. AS A RESULT, AN OWNER NOTIFICATION LETTER WILL NOT BE ISSUED.
Negative 2008 Hyundai Sonata car reviews
Positive 2008 Hyundai Sonata car reviews
-
I really appreciate your interest in the Sonata! It's great to hear that you had such a positive experience with the car. The 6 has impressive acceleration and is very smooth. Even at 70 mph, the car is incredibly quiet and handles evasive maneuvers with ease. It's also worth noting that the Sonata offers excellent value for money and is highly reliable. It's fantastic to hear that your car has been trouble-free for 15 months and 32000 miles. Overall, I think the Sonata is a top performer in terms of price, performance, and comfort. Thank you for sharing your experience, and I hope you'll consider buying another one in the future!
-
I absolutely love this car! It has only been driven for about 2k miles since I bought it with 30k miles on it, but it has already exceeded my expectations. Getting onto the highway is a breeze thanks to its impressive acceleration. The car has a great amount of power, which I really appreciate. Additionally, it runs quietly and smoothly, making for a comfortable and enjoyable ride. The sunroof is a great feature, and the interior is spacious and comfortable. The gas mileage is also impressive, with about 31 miles per gallon on the highway and 19 in town. While I can't speak to its long-term reliability, it currently runs like a dream and is nearly silent at idle. Overall, this mid-sized 4 door family car is truly exceptional in terms of performance and features.
-
Congratulations on your purchase of the SE V6! It sounds like you got a great deal. The car is extremely comfortable and spacious, even in the back seat. It's great that the safety features come standard, which is not always the case with other manufacturers. The trunk space is also a plus. The stereo sounds amazing, especially XM, although the readout could be improved as it truncates the information. The MPG in city driving is so-so at this point, but the power and smooth ride make up for it. It's understandable that you wish it had a sunroof, but it's hard to argue with the deal you got. Overall, it sounds like you're very happy with your purchase and I hope you continue to enjoy it!
-
I recently purchased a 2007 Audi A4 for 30K dollars. It's a nice car and I absolutely love it. Recently, I went to the Hyundai dealer and bought a 2008 Limited Sonata for my mother who was recently widowed. I was blown away by how nice the Sonata is! The fit and finish is impeccable, and the V6 has plenty of pep. The exterior lines and dual exhausts are quite attractive. The 5 year warranty and standard safety features, along with Hyundai's vastly improved record for quality (JD Power reports) nearly sold the vehicle by themselves. Having driven it, I can't help but think I overpaid for my Audi! The leather seats, quality components and user-friendly controls are nearly on par with my A4. Hyundai really hit this one out of the park!
-
The Sonata wasn't initially on my list of cars. I was considering a Civic hybrid or Accord. However, the fuel mileage, styling, and warranty caught my attention. The final factor was a $3,000 rebate. I ended up saving several thousand dollars over what I thought I'd have to spend to get a high-quality, stylish sedan. After owning it for a full year now, I can honestly say that I am 100% satisfied with the car. The mileage is in the 27-28 range, and I haven't had any service or mechanical issues. I'm really glad I chose the Hyundai. I can't wait to trade it up for a new Genesis in a couple of years!
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2008 Hyundai Sonata problems:
2008 Hyundai Sonata Review, Problems, Reliability, Value, Life ...
May 11, 2022 ... The 2008 Sonata lasts roughly 200,000 miles with a lot of serious engine and brake problems. At $4,587 – 5,676, it's cheaper than rivals, but ...
2008 Hyundai Sonata Reliability - Consumer Reports
Premature pad/rotor wear, pulsation or vibration, antilock system, parking brake, master cylinder, calipers, squeaking, brake failure, regenerative braking.
2008 Hyundai Sonata Problems | Kelley Blue Book
How reliable is the 2008 Hyundai Sonata? See the most common repairs performed and learn if your vehicle is at risk for major repairs in the next 12 months.
2008 Hyundai Sonata Problems and Complaints - 5 Issues
Problem with your 2008 Hyundai Sonata? Our list of 5 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 2008 Hyundai Sonata.
2008 Sonata - Won't Start - Hyundai Forum - Hyundai Enthusiast ...
May 19, 2010 ... The problem discribed is a common problem when the neutral safety switch sticks. The car will not start. neutral safety switch is stuck.
Other years of Hyundai Sonata
Are you having problems with your 2008 Hyundai Sonata?
Webster Schoen 2024-11-09
I purchased this car with 29000 miles on it. Unfortunately, I have experienced some issues such as vibrations at 45 miles per hour and door lock problems. Although the dealer adjusted the transmission and installed new locks, the issues still persist. Additionally, the valves clatter at cold start, which is concerning. I have left the car overnight at the dealer twice so they could hear the noise, but the issue remains. I plan to return to the dealer to try and find a solution. The car also feels every bump in the road, which can be uncomfortable. With 34000 miles on the car, I am worried that it will continue to have problems. In hindsight, I wish I had spent a little more and purchased a Toyota or Honda. It is important to note that I have read many reviews, but most owners only had the car for about a year. Please beware before considering purchasing this car.
Elmo Reynolds 2024-07-18
My 08 has several issues, and all seem common with my fellow owner. Loose molding strips, a failed oxygen sensor, failed tire pressure lights. The warranty is attractive, but read the small print, I was disappointed with a transmission issue. This car looks nice but is sluggish around 30- 40mph. It really should not be compared to a Accord or Camry,, unless of course you can measure intangible issues with the cost savings. It does not have the re-sale value associated with Japanese vehicles.
Devan Ryan 2024-07-06
I had some trouble getting fluid to the brakes and had it looked at by two people. They both suggested that it might be the master cylinder. When I took it to the dealership, they initially recommended that I replace the brakes, but the issue persisted. After I explained the situation again, they argued with me, which was frustrating. However, they eventually discovered that the master cylinder was broken, just as I had suspected. While I was disappointed with the customer service, I am glad that the issue was resolved. I may consider other options in the future, but I appreciate the effort that was made to fix the problem.