The 2013 Hyundai Sonata is a midsize sedan with a price range of $10,809 to $15,194. Pricing is higher than some competitors and frequent engine failures make the 2013 Sonata a car buyers should avoid.
2013 Hyundai Sonata: Quick Overview
- New features for the 2013 model year include heated rear seats, and navigation system improvements.
- Reliability ratings are average, according to J.D. Power, but there are more issues than the 2014 model.
- Two engines are available, including a powerful turbocharged 4-cylinder.
- Fuel economy is average and ties for 5th place out of 14 midsize cars with a combined rating of up to 27 miles per gallon.
- Safety ratings are excellent, getting a perfect 5-star rating in government crash tests and earning the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety’s Top Safety Pick award.
- The 2013 Sonata ties for 9th place out of 13 midsize cars based on owner reviews. There are just too many mechanical problems with the Sonata to earn our recommendation over much more reliable midsize sedans.
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Problems Does the 2013 Hyundai Sonata Have?
The 2013 Hyundai Sonata has more complaints than other midsize sedans, with some serious mechanical issues. There are improvements in the 2014 model, making the $2,000 price difference worth the cost.
Seized engines are the most common, and serious, problem owners encounter. The engines are a known failure point on the Sonata, and cost over $6,000 to replace. Hyundai has addressed the issue by covering the costs of engine replacements through a class-action lawsuit.
Steering problems, including worn-out couplers, are another frequent issue. The components wear out prematurely and cost about $300 to replace.
Cruise control problems are also mentioned by owners. Replacing the harness and buttons helps solve the issue in some cases, but there are many different sources to the problem.
There are 8 recalls affecting the car, which is average for a car from 2013. The recalls include airbags, transmission shift cable, seat belt linkages, engine bearing wear, high pressure fuel pipe, and low pressure fuel hose. The most serious is the bearing wear since failures lead to the engine seizing.
What are the Prices, Models & Specs?
The 2013 Hyundai Sonata is more expensive than the competition, with a price range of $10,809 to $15,194 depending on the model and mileage. When new, the price range was $20,895 to $27,595. Depreciation is average, dropping about 40% in value over the first 5 years.
- GLS is the entry-level model with 16-inch steel wheels, cloth seating, keyless entry, cruise control, heated mirrors, and an AM/FM/CD stereo system with satellite radio, AUX connectivity, USB inputs, and Bluetooth.
- SE is in the middle of the lineup and has 18-inch alloy wheels, leather and cloth sports seats, black exterior trim, a sport-tuned suspension, and paddle shifters.
- Limited is the flagship model with 17-inch wheels, full leather seating, soft suspension, sunroof, heated rear seats, 7-inch touchscreen navigation, and 7-speaker Infinity stereo system.
How Long Will the 2013 Hyundai Sonata Last?
A properly maintained 2013 Hyundai Sonata will last about 200,000 miles, which is average for a midsize car. Engine failures are common, and can mechanically total the car if the 10 year/100,000 mile warranty doesn’t cover a replacement. Routine maintenance costs are more affordable than other vehicles. Repair Pal estimates them to be $486 per year.
No issues at all. Great gas mileage and extremely reliable and safe. I feel good taking trips alone and with young kids because I know we will not have any problems on the road.
Extremely, there was a problem with the airbags system as per the recall instructions we took it in immediately and the problem was corrected by the dealer, and beside that hiccup we have had no problem ever since.
No it does not have any problems. I like it a lot and it does a great job of getting me too and from places. It works very well.
The only problems I have had with it is a weird noise while breaking and the battery died twice and the tired run quickly.
It has a lot of recalls on it. But other than that it is pretty good with gas and pretty reliable. I drive it to college everyday.
Problems I have had were mostly the brakes wearing out. Also the seems like the lights run out soon and have to constantly change it.
Yes the Hyundai sonata is a reliable vehicle. Haven't had any problems with it. I thoroughly enjoy driving it.
It is reliable for major issues. I was only impacted by a recall related issue that was resolved quickly. Overall I have not had any major repair issues with this car.
What Technology & Safety Features Are Included?
Technology is basic in the 2013 Hyundai Sonata, missing some of the latest features found on other midsize sedans.
- Base technology includes an AM/FM/CD stereo system with USB, AUX, and Bluetooth connectivity, as well as 6 speakers.
- Upgrades include a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, and an improved 7-speaker Infinity stereo system.
- Standard safety features include BlueLink emergency telematics, antilock brakes, traction and stability control, as well as airbags. Optional upgrades include a rearview camera with the navigation system.
What Engine Options are Available?
The 2013 Hyundai Sonata offers trifecta of four-cylinder engines with turbocharged and hybrid options to suit any need. Performance is better than some other budget-friendly midsize sedans on the market. With the upgraded engine, the 2013 Sonata goes from 0 to 60 miles per hour in 6.2 seconds.
- The base engine is a 2.4L 4-cylinder with 198 horsepower.
- An upgraded 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder is available and produces 274 horsepower.
What Color Options are Available?
How Big is the Sonata?
The 2013 Sonata is larger than some other midsize cars, and has plenty of legroom for passengers in the back seats. The sloping roofline of the Sonata limits headroom, so taller passengers will not be as comfortable. Cargo space is good with 16.4 cubic feet of room in the trunk, more than enough space for 4 suitcases.
How Does the 2013 Hyundai Sonata Compare to Other Cars?
Ranking 9th out of 14 midsize cars based on owner reviews, the 2013 Hyundai Sonata is near the bottom of the class.
In first place is the Honda Accord, which is slightly more expensive. Reliability is much better in the Honda with no serious mechanical issues, and there’s more up-to-date standard technology. Where the Sonata wins out is with better interior materials, and a smoother suspension. Overall, the Accord is a better choice since they tend to last longer than the Sonata.
A close rival is the more affordable Nissan Altima. Both sedans are not very reliable, with transmission problems in the Altima, and engine failures in the Sonata. Passenger space is better in the Nissan, but interior materials are higher quality in the Sonata. Neither sedan is a great choice since they both are expensive to own, and have serious failures.
Final Verdict: Is the 2013 Hyundai Sonata a Good Car?
No, the 2013 Hyundai Sonata is not a good car based on 1,052 verified owner reviews, and information from 18 government and automotive websites. Positives include good safety ratings, and high-quality interior materials. The engine failures outweigh everything good with the Sonata. The technology is also outdated compared to the rivals. Overall, the 2014 Sonata is a better choice for shoppers interested in a Hyundai.