By Josh RosenbergIn today's very high-priced used car market, many shoppers are now looking for "older" models that have aged well as a way to save significant dollars. This makes a vehicle's history of reliability all the more crucial.
Has the Sonata aged well? Well, the Hyundai Sonata has made big improvements in reliability over the last 20 or so years. In fact, history has proven that a well-maintained older Sonata (generally more than 10 years old) can last in the 200,000 - 250,000 mile range. But the key is "well-maintained".
So here, ...
- We'll do an overview of some earlier Sonata generations, specifically the fifth and sixth, covering the 2006 - 2014 model years.
- Then we'll list possible mechanical issues that have been reported by some owners for these models, because all vehicles have them, so they can be checked before buying one today.
But first, and very importantly ...
Things To Do When Considering An "Older" Vehicle
Locate Lower Mileage Vehicles: They are certainly out there to be found with careful and patient shopping. Be willing to drive a distance if you have to.
Vehicle History and Maintenance: Ask for the vehicle history report (CarFax or AutoCheck) as well as documented maintenance and repair records. If not provided by the Dealer or private seller, it's usually best to move on.
Pre-Purchase Inspection: Have the vehicle independently inspected before making a final decision. This usually will cost in the $150-$200 range but is well worth it given the potentially thousands in savings over the long term.
And My #1 Price Tip: Please, always get online price quotes at auto sites such as CarsDirect.com and Edmunds.com (both, actually), whether looking for a new or used car. Competition among dealers for your business does amazing things to prices, and it's so easy. It really does make a difference.
And quickly, while we're at it, my #2 Tip is to always know the up-to-date trade-in value of your current car. You can get a quick and surprisingly accurate one at Edmund's Trade-In Quotes.
It's free and just takes a couple of minutes. I think what helps its accuracy is the inputs will include either your plate# or VIN# followed by many simple, but specific, yes/no questions. It really focuses in on the detail of the specific vehicle.
Fifth Generation Hyundai Sonata (2006 - 2010)
It was in 1999 that the Sonata finally came into its own with a an improved look, far better engines and big improvements in noise and ride quality. And with its attractive pricing, car buyers began to take notice.
That generation of Sonata, its fourth, was produced through the 2005 model year, and some lower-mileage examples can still be found out there with careful and patient shopping. But it's really the next two generations that are more plentiful and that can be an attractive value today.
In the Sonata's fifth generation, produced from 2006 through 2010, there were three initial trims: GL, GLS and LX. In 2007, the GLS became the equivalent to the original GL, while the LX model was replaced by the Limited. And in 2008, the more sport-oriented Sonata SE was introduced.
The standard features you'll find on the already well-equipped base Sonata GLS models include full power accessories, air conditioning, keyless entry, cruise control, heated sideview mirrors, a leather-wrapped shift knob and steering wheel (on the V6 only), and a 6-speaker audio system with a CD/MP3 player, satellite radio and an auxiliary audio jack.
Again, that's just an awful lot of quality features for the dollar. In addition, some of these older Sonata GLS models can be found with uplevel options such as an 8-way power driver seat, sunroof, a trip computer and steering-wheel-mounted audio controls.
The Sonata SE is equpped with all of the above except the sunroof, and it adds a combination leather/cloth upholstery, a tilt and telescoping steering column, performance tires, 17 inch alloy wheels and foglights.
These SE models can also be found with optional features such as the sunroof, a universal garage door opener, an auto-dimming rearview mirror and an upgraded stereo with a six-disc CD changer and subwoofer.
A top-of-the-line Sonata Limited has all of the above, plus full leather upholstery, heated front seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, wood-grain interior accents, chrome exterior trim and a premium Infinity sound system. And some Limited models can also be found with the optional touchscreen navigation system.
Both of this Sonata's engines are solid performers. The 2.4-liter, 162 horsepower, four-cylinder engine found in the GL and GLS is surprisingly lively and capable, whether driving the five-speed manual (GL only) or the four-speed automatic transmission that also comes with a manual shift capability.
It should benoted that for the 2008 model year, the four-cylinder engine became standard on all models while the V6 became optional.
And the very capable 3.3-liter 235 horsepower V6 comes with a five-speed automatic transmission, also with the manual shift capability.
This generation's EPA-estimated gas mileage is very respectable for a family sedan at 22 mpg city and 32 mpg on the highway with the four cylinder, and 19 mpg city and 29 mpg highway with the V6.
We've found this Sonata to have plenty of headroom, a spacious rear seat and a very large and useful trunk. The interior is also attractive with a two-tone dashboard and metallic trim.
This Sonata also comes with abundant safety features such as antilock brakes (ABS), traction control, stability control, front seat side airbags and curtain airbags. And in government crash testing, it was awarded perfect five-out-of-five-star ratings in all front and side-impact tests for both driver and passenger protection.
2006 - 2010 Hyundai Sonata Possible Mechanical Problems
While experiencing a solid improvement over the previous generation in terms or reliability, this version still had mechanical problems reported by some owners. These issues should therefore be included in a pre-purchase inspection:
Transmission Issues: Some Sonata models equipped with automatic transmissions experienced problems such as rough shifting, delayed engagement, or transmission failure.
Suspension and Steering Concerns: Owners reported issues with suspension components such as ball joints, control arms, and bushings, leading to noises, vibrations, or uneven tire wear. Some also experienced problems with the power steering system, including leaks, stiffness, or loss of power assistance.
Brake Problems: There were reports of premature wear of brake pads and rotors, as well as problems with the ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), including sensor failures or malfunctions.
Engine Issues: Some models experienced problems with the engine, such as oil leaks, overheating, or issues with components like the timing belt or water pump. Some owners also reported engine misfires or rough idling.
Electrical System Malfunctions: Like many vehicles, the Sonata could experience electrical problems such as issues with power windows, door locks, or dashboard warning lights. Some owners also reported problems with the vehicle's audio system or climate control.
Air Conditioning Failures: There were reports of air conditioning system failures, including issues with the compressor, evaporator, or refrigerant leaks. This could lead to reduced cooling performance or complete system failure.
Sixth Generation Hyundai Sonata (2011 - 2014)
The Sonata was then redesigned for the 2011 model year, its sixth generation, and produced through the 2014 model year. And this version elevated it from a "very solid choice" to "the top of its segment".
This generation offers a myriad of appealing qualities, including its sleek design, smooth drive, capable handling, spacious interior, impressive feature list, large trunk, excellent safety ratings, and strong value for the dollar.
In addition to its impressive materials quality and solid construction, this version's powertrain offers both surprising athleticism and power while still delivering high fuel mileage. It again included more standard features than its competitors while priced less.
This Sonata has a standard 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine which produces 197 horsepower yet with improved fuel economy. Also available is a 278-hp 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbo.
In 2014, the Sonata got a mild facelift which added a new grille, redesigned front fog lights and LED taillights, slimmer LED mirror indicators, and a new alloy wheel design.
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Standard features on the already well-equipped base Sonata GLS include power windows, power door locks, power mirrors, air-conditioning, keyless entry, cruise control, 16-inch steel wheels, heated mirrors, Bluetooth, a trip computer, steering-wheel-mounted audio controls, a tilt/telescoping steering wheel, a 60/40-split rear seatback and a 6-speaker audio system with satellite radio, a CD player, a USB/iPod audio interface and an auxiliary audio jack.
Moving up to the sportier SE model added all the above plus a sport-tuned suspension, 18-inch alloy wheels, performance tires, keyless entry/ignition, leather/cloth upholstery, a dark chrome grille and foglights.
Also found on some models is the optional Navigation and Sunroof package which includes a touchscreen navigation system, a rearview camera, a sunroof and Infinity speakers for the sound system, while the turbocharged SE has steering-wheel-mounted transmission paddle shifters and dual-zone automatic climate control.
The top-of-the-line Sonata Limited comes with everthing on the SE (except it is equipped with 17-inch alloys rather than the SE's 18-inchers) plus a softer suspension, full leather upholstery, heated front and rear seats, a panoramic sunroof, side mirror turn signal repeaters, special interior trim accents, an auto-dimming rearview mirror and an upgraded stereo system with a 6-disc CD changer and HD radio.
The turbocharged Limited model goes on to add the 18-inch alloy wheels, steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters and dual exhaust tips. Some Limited's can also be found with the optional touchscreen navigation system, a back-up camera and the premium Infinity speakers.
2011 - 2014 Hyundai Sonata Possible Mechanical Problems
This generation also represented a significant improvement in reliability compared to earlier generations. However, problems reported by some owners which should therefore be included in an inspection before buying include:
Engine Failures: Certain models experienced engine failures or severe engine problems, often related to issues with the timing chain tensioner. This could lead to engine damage or complete failure if not addressed promptly.
Transmission Issues: Some Sonata models equipped with automatic transmissions experienced problems such as rough shifting, hesitation, or premature failure.
Brake Problems: Owners reported various brake-related issues, including premature wear of brake pads and rotors, brake pedal pulsation, or problems with the anti-lock braking system (ABS).
Suspension and Steering Concerns: There were reports of premature wear of suspension components like ball joints, control arms, and bushings. Steering problems, including stiffness or noises when turning, were also reported by some owners.
Electrical System Issues: Some owners experienced electrical problems such as issues with power windows, door locks, or dashboard warning lights. Some also reported problems with the vehicle's audio system or navigation unit.
Air Conditioning Failures: There were reports of air conditioning system failures, including issues with the compressor, evaporator, or refrigerant leaks.
Fuel System Problems: Some Sonata models experienced issues with the fuel system, such as fuel leaks, problems with the fuel pump, or issues with fuel injectors.
It's important to note that most Sonatas did not experience these problems, and the severity of issues varied among individual vehicles. Regular maintenance and prompt repairs may have mitigated potential mechanical problems and ensured the better longevity of the vehicle.