2003 Hyundai Sonata

Introduction The 2003 Hyundai Sonata is a mid-size sedan that was available with two engine options: a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine with 138 horsepower and 156 lb-ft of torque and a 2.7-liter V6 engine with 172 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with a four-speed automatic transmission. The Sonata was praised for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and affordable price, but it was criticized for its lack of power and poor fuel economy.

Engine 2.4-liter Four-Cylinder Engine

• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The intake manifold gasket can fail, causing coolant and oil to leak. This can lead to overheating, engine damage, and a loss of power.
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Timing Belt Tensioner Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The timing belt tensioner can fail, causing the timing belt to slip or break. This can lead to catastrophic engine damage.
  • Solution: Replace the timing belt and tensioner.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800
  • Recalls: 03V027000, 06V143000

2.7-liter V6 Engine

• Intake Manifold Runner Control Valve Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The intake manifold runner control valve can fail, causing poor engine performance, decreased fuel economy, and a rough idle.
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold runner control valve.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Steering Pump Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: The power steering pump can leak, causing a loss of power steering assist.
  • Solution: Replace the power steering pump.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

• Four-Speed Automatic Transmission
• Shifting Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: The transmission may shift hard or erratically, or it may fail to shift gears altogether.
  • Solution: Replace the transmission or have it rebuilt.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Other Major Components

Suspension

• No Issues Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The alternator may fail to charge the battery, leading to a loss of electrical power.
  • Solution: Replace the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Trunk Lid Corrosion
  • Description/Symptoms: The trunk lid can corrode, leading to rust and holes.
  • Solution: Replace the trunk lid or have it repaired.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: The dashboard can crack, particularly on the passenger side.
  • Solution: Replace the dashboard.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found
• Climate Control Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The climate control system may not work properly, leading to insufficient heating or cooling.
  • Solution: Have the climate control system diagnosed and repaired.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary The 2003 Hyundai Sonata has a number of potential issues, including engine problems, transmission problems, electrical problems, and interior issues. The severity of the issues varies, but some of them can be costly to repair. As a result, it is important to consider the potential risks before purchasing this vehicle.