2007 Hyundai Sonata

The 2007 Hyundai Sonata was a popular mid-size sedan known for its affordability and spacious interior. Engine options included a 2.4L inline-4 cylinder engine producing approximately 162 horsepower and 164 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.3L V6 engine producing approximately 235 horsepower and 229 lb-ft of torque. The 2.4L engine was paired with either a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic transmission, while the 3.3L V6 came standard with a 5-speed automatic transmission. Owners often appreciated the Sonata’s comfortable ride and generous features for its price point. Common dislikes included the somewhat uninspired styling and potential reliability issues.

Engine

2.4L Inline-4 Cylinder

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Owners reported higher than normal oil consumption, requiring frequent top-offs between oil changes. Some owners noticed blue smoke from the exhaust, indicating burning oil.
  • Solution: Depending on the severity, solutions ranged from using a thicker oil to replacing valve stem seals or piston rings. In severe cases, engine replacement was necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $4000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Check Engine Light - P0011 (Camshaft Position Timing Over-Advanced or System Performance)
  • Description/Symptoms: The check engine light illuminates, often accompanied by rough idling, decreased fuel economy, and potential loss of power.
  • Solution: Replacement of the camshaft position sensor or the variable valve timing (VVT) solenoid. In some cases, the timing chain or related components needed replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

3.3L V6

• Timing Belt Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Ticking noise from the engine, misfires, engine stalling, or complete engine failure. As a maintenance item, the timing belt is supposed to be replaced at certain mileage intervals. However, failure to replace it can lead to catastrophic damage.
  • Solution: Timing belt replacement with associated components like water pump and tensioners. If failure occurred, engine repair or replacement might be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic (Paired with 2.4L Engine)

• Harsh Shifting/Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Abrupt or delayed gear changes, slipping between gears, and general transmission unresponsiveness.
  • Solution: Fluid flush and filter change might help in minor cases. More severe cases required valve body replacement or complete transmission rebuild/replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $3500+
  • Recalls: None Found

5-Speed Automatic (Paired with 3.3L Engine)

• Torque Converter Shudder
  • Description/Symptoms: A shaking or vibrating sensation, particularly at lower speeds or during light acceleration. This is often attributed to torque converter clutch failure.
  • Solution: Transmission fluid flush with fluid specifically formulated for torque converter shudder or replacement of the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Strut Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the rear suspension, particularly when going over bumps. The rear strut mounts can deteriorate and crack.
  • Solution: Replacement of the rear strut mounts and potentially the struts themselves, if damaged.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Power Window Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent or complete failure of power windows, requiring multiple attempts to operate.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty power window motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Airbag Light On
  • Description/Symptoms: Airbag light is on due to a faulty clock spring, seat belt sensors, or other faulty components.
  • Solution: Scan the airbag system with a scan tool to diagnose the fault code. Once the fault code is identified, replace the faulty component.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust Issues (Certain Regions)
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust formation on the undercarriage, wheel wells, and other body panels, especially in areas with heavy road salt use.
  • Solution: Rust repair, which can range from surface treatment to panel replacement depending on the severity.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracking of the dashboard material, often in sun-exposed areas.
  • Solution: Replacement of the dashboard (expensive) or use of a dashboard cover to conceal the damage.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 2007 Hyundai Sonata presented a mixed bag of potential issues. Engine problems, particularly oil consumption in the 2.4L, can be a significant concern, potentially leading to costly repairs. Transmission issues, while less common, also warrant attention. Suspension and electrical problems are more typical for a vehicle of this age and mileage. Rust can be a serious problem in colder climates. While some fixes are relatively inexpensive, major engine or transmission work can be costly, making it crucial to thoroughly inspect the car before purchase.