2019 Hyundai Sonata

The 2019 Hyundai Sonata is a mid-size sedan known for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and user-friendly technology. Engine options include a 2.4L inline-4 producing 185 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque, a 1.6L turbocharged inline-4 producing 178 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque, and a 2.0L turbocharged inline-4 producing 245 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. All engines are paired with a traditional automatic transmission. Owners often praise the Sonata’s value, fuel efficiency, and quiet cabin. Common dislikes include somewhat bland styling and a less engaging driving experience compared to some competitors.

Engine

2.4L Inline-4

• Engine Stalling
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported instances of the engine stalling unexpectedly, particularly at low speeds or when idling. This can occur intermittently and without warning.
  • Solution: The issue may be caused by a faulty Idle Air Control (IAC) valve, a dirty throttle body, or a failing crankshaft position sensor. Diagnosis is needed to pinpoint the exact cause. Replacing the faulty component or cleaning the throttle body may resolve the issue.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

1.6L Turbocharged Inline-4

• Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have noted excessive oil consumption in these engines. This may be indicated by low oil levels between oil changes or the need to add oil frequently.
  • Solution: Possible causes include worn piston rings, valve stem seals, or a PCV valve issue. A compression test and leak-down test can help determine the source of the oil consumption. Depending on the diagnosis, solutions can range from replacing the PCV valve to more extensive engine repairs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found

2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4

• Engine Knocking/Pinging
  • Description/Symptoms: Some drivers have experienced engine knocking or pinging sounds, especially under acceleration. This can be a sign of pre-ignition or detonation, which can damage the engine over time.
  • Solution: The cause can range from using low-octane fuel to a faulty knock sensor or carbon buildup in the combustion chamber. Using premium fuel, replacing the knock sensor, or performing an engine cleaning may alleviate the problem.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

All Transmissions

• Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported rough or jerky shifting between gears. This may be more noticeable during upshifts or downshifts.
  • Solution: This issue could be caused by low transmission fluid, a faulty shift solenoid, or wear within the transmission itself. A transmission fluid flush, replacing the shift solenoid, or a complete transmission rebuild may be required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Suspension Noise
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported a clunking or rattling noise coming from the rear suspension, particularly when going over bumps or uneven surfaces.
  • Solution: This noise could be caused by worn sway bar bushings, loose suspension components, or faulty shocks/struts. Inspecting and replacing the affected components can resolve the noise.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have experienced intermittent freezing or crashing of the infotainment system. This can interrupt navigation, audio, and other functions.
  • Solution: Try to use the factory update feature in the Infotainment settings to download the latest software, if it is not on the latest version. This is a common issue on vehicles and is usually fixed via over-the-air software update.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Free if software update resolves the issue. $100 - $1000+ if hardware is required.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have experienced issues with the battery draining prematurely, especially if the vehicle is not driven frequently. This can result in difficulty starting the car or a completely dead battery.
  • Solution: There could be a parasitic drain from an electrical component that is not shutting off properly, a failing battery, or a faulty alternator. Testing the battery, alternator, and performing a parasitic draw test can help identify the source of the problem.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Headlight Condensation
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported condensation forming inside the headlight assemblies.
  • Solution: Depending on the severity, removing the headlight assembly and drying it out or replacing the headlight assembly may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported problems with the sunroof, including difficulty opening or closing, unusual noises, or leaks.
  • Solution: This issue could be caused by a faulty sunroof motor, damaged seals, or debris in the sunroof tracks. Cleaning and lubricating the tracks, replacing the motor, or replacing the seals may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2019 Hyundai Sonata generally offers a reliable and comfortable driving experience. However, some owners have reported issues such as engine stalling, oil consumption, transmission harsh shifting, suspension noises, and electrical system glitches. While some of these issues are relatively minor and inexpensive to fix, others may require more extensive and costly repairs. Before purchasing a used 2019 Sonata, it’s advisable to have it thoroughly inspected by a qualified mechanic to identify any potential problems and assess their severity.