Complaints tend to deal with various interior and exterior components that are less durable than expected. Some owners report having to replace items like door handles and trim pieces, as well as premature wear of various finishes including the paint itself. Squeaks and rattles may become annoying as the Sonata ages, and lead-footed drivers often complain about a lack of low-end pulling power with the V6.
A few complaints popped up about the shifting response of the automatic transmission, as did a few gripes about brake feel and performance. Starting your test-drive with a check of the Sonata’s brakes is, thus, advisable. Be sure to check whether the pads and rotors are in need of replacement, too.
Ensure proper operation of all interior accessories, paying special attention to all power windows and the air conditioning system. These items aren’t trouble-free on older Sonata models, and they can be pricey to repair.
Also, be sure the automatic transmission functions as expected. Several used Hyundai models are known for issues relating to sensors and electronics that control their four-speed automatic gearbox. If the vehicle in question shifts roughly, erratically or with considerable hesitation, further investigation or selection of another used Sonata candidate is recommended.
Note that the Sonata uses a timing belt in its engine. This is a vital part that needs to be replaced before it fails, or catastrophic engine damage could result. Timing belt changes are somewhat costly, so you’ll want to ensure the car you’re considering isn’t due or overdue for this important service. If it is, budget a few hundred dollars extra for a timing belt replacement.
A trip to your local Hyundai dealership can help determine when the timing belt in your used Sonata candidate will need to be replaced. While visiting, be sure to bring the VIN number to the service department and see if the vehicle has any outstanding recall work that needs to be performed. Some earlier Sonata’s in this generation were subject to recalls that addressed a possible fuel-system fault and an intermittent stalling problem.
 |
| Ensure proper operation of all interior accessories, paying special attention to all power windows and the air conditioning system. |
A few complaints popped up about the shifting response of the automatic transmission, as did a few gripes about brake feel and performance. Starting your test-drive with a check of the Sonata’s brakes is, thus, advisable. Be sure to check whether the pads and rotors are in need of replacement, too.
Ensure proper operation of all interior accessories, paying special attention to all power windows and the air conditioning system. These items aren’t trouble-free on older Sonata models, and they can be pricey to repair.
Also, be sure the automatic transmission functions as expected. Several used Hyundai models are known for issues relating to sensors and electronics that control their four-speed automatic gearbox. If the vehicle in question shifts roughly, erratically or with considerable hesitation, further investigation or selection of another used Sonata candidate is recommended.
Note that the Sonata uses a timing belt in its engine. This is a vital part that needs to be replaced before it fails, or catastrophic engine damage could result. Timing belt changes are somewhat costly, so you’ll want to ensure the car you’re considering isn’t due or overdue for this important service. If it is, budget a few hundred dollars extra for a timing belt replacement.
A trip to your local Hyundai dealership can help determine when the timing belt in your used Sonata candidate will need to be replaced. While visiting, be sure to bring the VIN number to the service department and see if the vehicle has any outstanding recall work that needs to be performed. Some earlier Sonata’s in this generation were subject to recalls that addressed a possible fuel-system fault and an intermittent stalling problem.
 |
| Several used Hyundai models are known for issues relating and electronics that control their four-speed automatic gearbox. |