The Sonata offers more standard convenience and safety features than its competition. Plus, the midsize car typically lasts over 200,000 miles or 20 years–with some owners reporting reaching over 300,000 miles. But beware of the four-cylinder engine used between 2011 and 2013, which can suffer major mechanical failure.
Key Points
- Since 2010, Hyundai has offered four generations of Sonata sedans, including the current model that debuted for 2020.
- The lineup has included everything from mainstream four-cylinder models to turbocharged four-cylinders, V6s, and hybrids.
- A well-maintained Sonata can last upward of 200,000 miles with regular maintenance.
- The weakest link in the Sonata is the four-cylinder engine used between 2011 and 2013, which can suffer major mechanical failure.
- Several recalls have attempted to address problems with the 2011-2013 Sonata, but owners continue to report problems.
- It may be more complex, but the Sonata Hybrid has a good reliability record.
Hyundai’s Sonata Can Last from 200,000 to 300,000 Miles in its Lifetime, which Equals About 20 Years of Service
Generally speaking, the Sonata has been well-received by owners and the media. Ratings from Sonata owners on Vehicle History are typically in the mid- to upper-four-star range (out of five stars), from a low of 4.1 stars for the 2013 model to five stars for the newest models.
It’s not hard to find used Sonata sedans for sale online with 200,000 or more miles, which suggests good longevity. While most of the high-mile Sonatas currently for sale with upward of 200,000 miles are from the 2015 model year or older, some newer models are beginning to approach those high odometer readings.
Owners on Hyundai-Forums report upward of 300,000 miles in some instances. At an average of around 14,000 miles a year, that means some drivers may be able to get as many as 20 years out of a Sonata.
Regular Maintenance is Critical to Getting the Most out of a Sonata, but the 2011 Through 2013 Models Should Be Avoided
A redesign for the 2011 model year brought fresh, low-slung styling to the Sonata. Unfortunately, that model year was accompanied by a four-cylinder engine called Theta II that can be problematic, if not catastrophic.
Complaints registered by owners online largely center around internal issues such as bearing failures and defective piston rings that can lead to metal shards in the engine, resulting in potential mechanical seizure. The cost of replacing an engine may outweigh the value of the car.
According to Car Complaints, the 2011 model year is one to avoid due to the high potential of engine failures. Similar complaints follow the Sonata through 2013, which suggests that internal changes made the engine more reliable beginning with the 2014 model year.
So problematic was the Sonata’s Theta II engine that the automaker has issued several recalls to address internal components used in 2011 through 2013 Sonata models. These concerns are echoed by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, which has logged over 3,000 complaints from 2011 Sonata owners. Drivers have noted as recently as March 2022 that the four-cylinder engine may seize while driving.
When Considering a Pre-owned Hyundai Sonata, Look to 2016-or-newer Models for the Best Reliability Record
While the redesigned 2015 Sonata’s more conservative styling may not be as visually appealing, this generation of the mid-size sedan has a better reliability track record than its predecessor.
By the 2016 model year, Car Complaints rates the Sonata as “Pretty Good.” Reported problem areas taper off considerably closer to the current model year.
J.D. Power agrees, rating the 2016 Sonata as “Great” for its reliability. Even newer models are roughly the same, aside from a small dip for the 2020 model year when the Sonata was redesigned again.
The Hyundai Sonata’s Longevity Makes it a Good Used-car Buy, but the Hybrid Model Has a Problem with Battery Failure that Can Eventually Add Over $1,500 to the Cost
Hyundai has offered a gasoline-electric version of the Sonata sedan since the 2012 model year. With its electric motor and lithium-polymer battery pack, the Sonata Hybrid can run on electric power alone for short stints to save fuel.
Even though this powertrain is more technically complex than the base four-cylinder, there are fewer complaints from owners online. The biggest problem is battery failure. A replacement battery can cost around $1,500, plus another $300 to $400 to have it professionally installed, according to retailer Best Hybrid Batteries.
So, while Hyundai Sonata gas and hybrid models are decent used-vehicle options, it’s important to consider the bigger issues that may end up costing more money in the long run.
Photos: Hyundai
