GradeHyundai Sonata Reliability Grade
Poor reliability
Grade a specific Hyundai Sonata
Reliability changes from year to year. Pick a model year to see its grade, then add mileage and price to get a deal score and estimated miles remaining.
The Hyundai Sonata earns a D overall reliability grade from GradeMyCar, with an F for its engine and a C for its transmission. It ranks 10th of 11 midsize cars we grade. The engine (F) is the weaker of its two major components, so ask for oil-change records and have a mechanic check for leaks and oil consumption. Grades are based on 6,904 owner complaints filed with NHTSA for the 2013-2023 model years, adjusted for how many were sold.
Hyundai Sonata reliability by year
Overall grade for each model year, from owner complaints filed with NHTSA. Tap a year to see its full grade.
Best years: 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004 and 2005
Years to avoid: 2011–2013 (engine failure / knocking) and 2015 (stalling / loss of power)
Faded years are recent, so fewer complaints have come in. Their grades may change.
How long does the Hyundai Sonata last?
A rough estimate for the model across all years, not measured for each model year.
Hyundai Sonata vs. other midsize cars
| Model | Engine | Trans. | Overall |
|---|---|---|---|
| Toyota Camry | A | A- | A |
| Mazda Mazda6 | A- | A- | A- |
| Volkswagen Passat | B | A | A- |
| Nissan Maxima | A | B | A- |
| Nissan Altima | A | B | B+ |
| Honda Accord | B- | B+ | B- |
| Chrysler 200 | C+ | C+ | B- |
| Chevrolet Malibu | C+ | C | C+ |
| Kia Optima | F | C+ | C- |
| Hyundai Sonata | F | C | D |
| Ford Fusion | D | F | D |
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Rate your SonataHyundai Sonata reliability FAQ
Is the Hyundai Sonata reliable?
Poor reliability. The Hyundai Sonata earns a D overall reliability grade from GradeMyCar, with an F for its engine and a C for its transmission. It ranks 10th of 11 midsize cars we grade. The engine (F) is the weaker of its two major components, so ask for oil-change records and have a mechanic check for leaks and oil consumption. Grades are based on 6,904 owner complaints filed with NHTSA for the 2013-2023 model years, adjusted for how many were sold.
How many miles will a Hyundai Sonata last?
We estimate a well-maintained Hyundai Sonata lasts around 190,000 miles. That's a rough figure for the model across all years, not measured for each model year, so check the grade for the year you're looking at.
What are the best years for the Hyundai Sonata?
Based on NHTSA owner complaints, the most reliable Hyundai Sonata model years are 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004 and 2005.
What Hyundai Sonata years should I avoid?
Based on NHTSA owner complaints, the Hyundai Sonata years to be most careful with are 2011, 2012, 2013 and 2015. The 2011 grades an F overall (engine F, transmission C-), and its top engine/transmission problem is engine failure / knocking, which a recall covers. The 2012 grades a D overall (engine D, transmission C-), and its top engine/transmission problem is engine failure / knocking, which a recall covers.
Is the Hyundai Sonata transmission reliable?
GradeMyCar grades the Hyundai Sonata transmission a C (below-average reliability). Reliability varies by model year, so grade the specific year you're looking at.
Is the Hyundai Sonata engine reliable?
GradeMyCar grades the Hyundai Sonata engine an F (poor reliability).