The Sonata’s engine seizing problem is at the top of the always expanding list of concerns. More than 180 written complaints described how their engine just stalled or seized suddenly and without any kind of warning. The worst part is that most of it took place while the car was traveling at a high rate of speed. At about 96,550 miles, this problem surfaced and required a $5,150 repair. It makes sense why some people decided to junk the car.
Another typical criticism about the 2011 Sonata is the excessive engine noise. Owners who were upset said that the engine created awful knocking noises that would make anyone pause. Again, the standard remedy involves replacing the engine, which costs $5,000 or more.
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The worst Hyundai Sonata model years are 2011–2013.
The 2011 Hyundai Sonata has received the most complaints overall, and it is also considered the worst model year when factors like repair cost and average miles when the faults manifest themselves are taken into account, according to the CarComplaints website.
The 2011 Hyundai Sonata has serious engine problems. Numerous complaints claim that the engine of this model year has a tendency to seize suddenly. “This car’s third and last engine failure had occurred. I’m not going to go through this again, so I’ll carefully drive the car to a junkyard and hand it over to the people there.
The identical issue as the last two occasions, a knocking noise that occurs suddenly, and the vehicle is prepared to throw a rod once more. When I started looking into the problem and realized that it was a persistent and very regular problem with this specific vehicle, I finally made the decision to complain.” a Sonata owner claimed on CarComplaints. This is a pretty serious issue, and it costs a lot. The standard remedy is to replace the engine, which typically costs $5150.
A few steering issues, such as clicking noises or shaking and wobbling while turning, are also present in this model year. The steering coupler replacement appears to fix this very major issue.
Unsurprisingly, the same engine and handling problems that plagued the 2011 model year persist in the 2012 model year. The 2012 model has a number of electrical and interior issues in addition to the engine seizure and steering issues.
Some interior problems with this model include the dashboard cracking, the radio dying, and the cruise control not working. Despite being less significant, these can be quite a problem. On the electrical side, the battery in this model frequently fails. Although it might not be an expensive problem, it might be discouraging when it occurs on low mileage vehicles.
The fact that all vehicles all have the same engine issue is now outdated information, and the 2013 model is no exception. However, this model year also has problems with excessive oil consumption and a lack of engine acceleration.
Numerous owners have voiced complaints about the 2013 model’s more insignificant but troublesome problems, including as cruise control glitches and persistent brake light failure.
Although it excels in most years, the Hyundai Sonata struggled from 2006 to 2015
While it is obvious that you should stay away from Hyundai Sonatas from 2011 to 2015 and from 2006, all other years are a good option on the secondhand car market. 2016 and subsequent models have significantly less reported complaints and recalls, making them the more reliable option, especially if they are still covered by a factory warranty.
Avoid Hyundai Sonata Years (List of Years)
Hyundai experienced a number of difficult years. Many of the Sonata models had significant production issues, which was to be expected for any brand of automobile. However, they also succeeded in producing several excellent automobiles and SUVs.
The following years should be avoided:
- Honda Sonata 2011
- Hyundai Sonata 2012
- Sonata 2013 Hyundai
- Hyundai Sonata 2015
The engines of the Sonata models from 2011 and 2012 share similar issues. Poor fuel efficiency as well as a few other minor transmission and engine issues were present.
There are numerous issues with these two models. However, the number of complaints did not surpass those for the earlier versions.
The transmission issue is the most frequently cited difficulty by consumers. Other than that, there were difficulties with the inside and the electricity.
Hyundai Sonata 2011
It’s a poor car, the 2011 Hyundai Sonata. In the history of the whole sedan business, it has received the most complaints.
The engine stalling at odd times is the problem with the most reports. Additionally, it makes a lot of noise. Other models are by no means comparable.
Another issue is the steering mechanism, which makes a clicking noise anytime it is turned. Additionally, it wobbled or shook, which alarmed some drivers.
Additionally, owners stated that the 2010 model’s starter would occasionally malfunction. Overall, it is best to stay away from this model at all costs.
Which model years have the best track record?
Although owners of the more recent model years (2016–2018) have reported less issues, the 2011 Hyundai Sonata’s subpar performance shouldn’t deter you from purchasing a used car.
Owners of older model years report that they are generally reliable, with model years 2011 to 2015 receiving the greatest complaints. The one exception to this is the 2014 Sonata, which has only had 58 owner complaints.
Only 117 complaints have been made against the 2010 Sonata, compared to 75 and 49 complaints for the 2009 and 2008 models, respectively. Are you trying to find a secondhand Sonata that won’t cause you too many issues? A used Hyundai Sonata might be the best option.
Airbag Issues
On Sonata models 2011, 2012, 2013, as well as 2005, 2006, 2007 and 2008, airbag-related issues are rather widespread, and there have been a number of high-profile recalls. Owners have frequently reported that the airbag light remains on and won’t turn off.
Due to a potential short circuit that would prevent the front and side airbags from inflating in the event of a collision, Hyundai recalled 154,753 of its 2011 Sonata vehicles.
The curtain side airbags on some Hyundai Sonata sedans from the model years 2012 to 2013 may inflate without receiving a command to do so owing to a manufacturing defect.
The occupant categorization system (OCS), which was intended to detect whether a young child was seated in the passenger seat, malfunctioned in some 2006–2008 Sonata models. Around 400,000 autos were recalled as a result of this.
Some Hyundai Sonatas from the 2016 model year were recalled. The driver-side frontal air bag in the impacted vehicles may not provide enough neck protection in the case of a collision.
most typical Hyundai Sonata issues
An engine failure issue with older Sonatas led to a class-action lawsuit in 2016 as a result. Other issues include malfunctioning lights (2012) and gearshifting troubles (2003-2015).
Owners of newer Sonatas have reported a variety of difficulties, including faults with the electrical system and XM satellite antennas.
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A gasoline pipe issue has resulted in one recall for the 2022 Sonata. The 2022 year model did receive a JD Power reliability rating of 83/100, which is regarded to be excellent.
Hyundai axed the Sonata for what reasons?
Although we assume that the sustained desire for SUVs also plays a significant factor in the decision, the Sonata is apparently being canceled in favor of future electric vehicles. Hyundai wants to be an all-electric brand by 2035, so it doesn’t make much sense to invest in gas-powered cars like the Sonata.
Hyundai is scrapping the Sonata for what reason?
In the upcoming years, Hyundai may remove the Sonata moniker from its lineup of international models, according to a media report.
According to reports, Hyundai is not creating a Sonata for a new generation. The automobile, however, is anticipated to see one more makeover before being finally discontinued around 2025. The current Hyundai Sonata is part of the eighth generation, which debuted back in 2020.
The current-generation Hyundai Sonata is available with two gasoline engines and a hybrid powertrain in other countries. The brand is rumored to be phased out the sedan in favor of EVs. The Ioniq 6 EV, which Hyundai is presently developing and may eventually replace the Sonata in its lineup, will go on sale soon.
According to reports, the product’s poor sales may have also been a factor in its cancellation. In comparison to the preceding models, which sold over a million units, the Hyundai Sonata sedan is reported to have sold only 4,40,000 units in the last three years. With almost 9 million units sold since its 1985 debut, the sedan is one of Korea’s most durable vehicles.
What is the expected lifespan of a Hyundai Sonata?
In my search for a new vehicle, the Hyundai Sonata drew my attention. I believe itad be ideal, but I keep hearing how unreliable ita is. How long should a Hyundai Sonata last, exactly?
In less than two minutes, find out if your auto insurance is being overcharged.
The Hyundai Sonata is one of the most durable vehicles available because to its reputation for dependability and minimal maintenance expenses. In actuality, Sonatas are frequently reported to endure between 200,000 and 250,000 kilometers. Even some owners claim that their Sonata has lasted for well over 300,000 miles.
Given that the typical American drives 15,000 miles per year, it is reasonable to assume that your Hyundai Sonata will last between 13 and 17 years. Of course, you can only expect your car to last that long if you maintain it properly.
Although they may keep up reasonably well over time, cars are still just machines. Without routine maintenance, your car is likely to break down soon. To further understand what a proper maintenance schedule comprises, consider the following major auto maintenance tasks:
- freshening air filters
- Check the belts and hoses.
- Change and cleanse the fluids
- turn the tires
- alter the spark plugs
Remember that maintaining your Hyundai Sonata on a regular basis can help you keep it in peak condition for as long as feasible. However, no amount of maintenance will be able to keep you safe from auto accidents. Use the Jerry app to get the auto insurance you require at the most affordable price to guarantee that you always have the resources to repair your Sonata.
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Hyundai Sonatas: excellent or bad?
In fact, the Hyundai Sonata is a great vehicle. With the exception of the strong turbo-four in the N Line, its engines are a little lackluster, and competitors are more enjoyable to drive. Most of this sedan’s problems are minor. The Sonata features one of the best cabins in the midsize car class and gets good gas mileage.