2015 Hyundai Sonata

The 2015 Hyundai Sonata marked a significant redesign for the model, offering a more refined and mature aesthetic. Engine options included a 2.4L inline-4 GDI engine producing 185 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque and a 2.0L Turbocharged inline-4 GDI engine producing 245 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Common praises for the 2015 Sonata include its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and strong value proposition. However, some drivers have expressed dissatisfaction with the base engine’s performance and reported various reliability concerns.

Engine

2.4L Inline-4 GDI

• Engine Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Many owners have reported premature engine failure, often attributed to connecting rod bearing failure. Symptoms include excessive engine noise (knocking or ticking), oil consumption, and eventually, complete engine seizure.
  • Solution: Engine replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $4,000 - $6,000+
  • Recalls: 17V224000, 19V027000, 19V747000

2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4 GDI

• Piston Slap
  • Description/Symptoms: Cold start piston slap that goes away after the engine warms up.
  • Solution: There is currently no solution to fix this.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: N/A
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic

• Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Abrupt or jerky shifting between gears, particularly during acceleration or deceleration.
  • Solution: Transmission flush. In some cases, replacing valve body.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Premature battery drain, leading to difficulty starting the vehicle. This can be caused by a parasitic draw from various electrical components.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the parasitic draw by isolating the faulty component (e.g., faulty sensor, module, or aftermarket accessory). In some cases, replacing the battery may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Faulty TPMS Sensors
  • Description/Symptoms: The Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) sensors failing prematurely and throwing warning lights.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty TPMS sensors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+ per sensor
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Navigation/Infotainment System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The navigation or infotainment system freezing, glitching, or failing to respond to inputs. This could include issues with the screen, software, or individual components within the system.
  • Solution: Software update or replacement of the infotainment system.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+ depending on severity.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Panoramic Sunroof Cracking/Exploding
  • Description/Symptoms: The panoramic sunroof suddenly cracking or shattering, often attributed to stress or temperature changes.
  • Solution: Replace the sunroof glass panel.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Suspension Noise
  • Description/Symptoms: Noise, mainly clunking or rattling, coming from the rear suspension, especially when driving over bumps.
  • Solution: Replacement of rear shocks or struts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary The 2015 Hyundai Sonata has some notable issues. The most serious is the potential for engine failure in the 2.4L engine, a costly repair potentially covered by recalls. Other common problems like harsh transmission shifting and electrical issues can also be frustrating and incur moderate repair costs. Addressing these issues proactively can improve the ownership experience.