2018 Hyundai Sonata

The 2018 Hyundai Sonata is a mid-size sedan known for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and value for money. Engine options include a 2.4L GDI 4-cylinder engine producing 185 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque, a 1.6L Turbo GDI 4-cylinder engine producing 178 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque, and a 2.0L Turbo GDI 4-cylinder engine producing 245 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. The 2.4L and 2.0L engines are typically paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission, while the 1.6L is paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. Owners often praise the Sonata’s fuel efficiency and user-friendly infotainment system. However, some common complaints involve engine issues and electrical glitches.

Engine

2.4L GDI 4-Cylinder Engine

• Engine Failure/Knocking Noise
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine develops a loud knocking noise, often accompanied by the check engine light illuminating. This can eventually lead to engine failure due to connecting rod bearing failure.
  • Solution: Replacement of the entire engine assembly is often required. Some vehicles may be covered under extended warranty programs related to previous recalls/service campaigns addressing connecting rod bearing issues.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $4,000 - $7,000+
  • Recalls: 17V226000, 19V119000, 20V750000

1.6L Turbo GDI 4-Cylinder Engine

• No Issues Found

2.0L Turbo GDI 4-Cylinder Engine

• No Issues Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic Transmission (paired with 2.4L and 2.0L Turbo)

• No Issues Found

7-Speed Dual-Clutch Transmission (DCT) (paired with 1.6L Turbo)

• Hesitation/Jerking During Low-Speed Acceleration
  • Description/Symptoms: Hesitation or jerking, especially when accelerating from a stop or at low speeds. This can be more pronounced in stop-and-go traffic.
  • Solution: Software updates to the Transmission Control Module (TCM) may improve shift quality. In some cases, clutch replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (Software Update) - $2,000+ (Clutch Replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• No Issues Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: The car battery drains overnight or within a short period, making it difficult to start the car. This can be intermittent.
  • Solution: Identifying the parasitic draw is crucial. Common culprits include faulty door lock actuators, the infotainment system, or aftermarket accessories. Repair or replacement of the affected component is needed.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the source of the draw.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment screen freezes, becomes unresponsive, or crashes intermittently.
  • Solution: A software update may resolve the issue. If the problem persists, replacement of the infotainment unit might be required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (Software Update) - $1,000+ (Replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• No Issues Found

Interior

• Sunroof Rattling/Squeaking
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling or squeaking noises coming from the sunroof area, especially when driving on rough roads.
  • Solution: Tightening the sunroof frame or lubricating the sunroof tracks may reduce the noise. In some cases, replacing worn sunroof components is necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2018 Hyundai Sonata, while generally a reliable vehicle, has some known issues that prospective buyers should be aware of. The most concerning is the potential for engine failure in the 2.4L GDI engine, which can be a costly repair. Electrical issues, such as battery drain and infotainment system malfunctions, are also relatively common. The 7-speed DCT can exhibit hesitation/jerking. Overall, the severity of the potential issues ranges from minor inconveniences to major mechanical failures. Being aware of these common problems can help buyers make a more informed decision and potentially negotiate a better price or budget for potential repairs.