Hyundai Sonata research: recalls, reliability and buyer's guide

The Sonata is a roomy, well-equipped midsize sedan that has offered strong value. The 2011-2014 car brought bold styling and a 274-hp turbo; the 2015-2019 car is quieter and more conservative, with Hybrid and Plug-in Hybrid options; and the 2020-on car has fastback styling, up to about 52 mpg in Hybrid Blue form, and a 290-hp N Line. On 2011-2019 four-cylinders, check Theta II engine recall, KSDS and settlement status by VIN.

Model years covered: 2011–2026. Verify 2026 trims (SEL Sport, Hybrid Blue) and specifications against current Hyundai data.

Last updated 2026-10-15.

Strengths

Roomy cabin and trunk
Strong feature content for the price
Hybrid up to about 52 mpg
290 hp n line 2021 and later
Standard automatic emergency braking 2020 and later
Available AWD 2024 and later
Long original powertrain warranty

Things to know before you buy

Theta ii engine recalls and settlement 2011 2019
Key start 2011 2019 models need anti theft update
Dual clutch on eco and n line feels different at low speed
Engine and transmission vary by year resolve by VIN
Resale values trail camry and accord
Recall status should be checked by VIN

Generations

Generation 6 (2011–2014)

The sixth-generation (YF) Sonata introduced Hyundai's 'Fluidic Sculpture' styling and dropped the V6 for direct-injected four-cylinders: a 198-200-hp 2.4L (re-rated to 190-192 hp for 2014) and a 274-hp, 269 lb-ft 2.0L turbo, with a 6-speed automatic (a manual was offered on early base cars). The first Sonata Hybrid used a 2.4L and electric motor and continued into 2015. 2014 brought a new grille and selectable steering modes.

Buyer takeaway: Affordable and stylish, but every gas car's engine recall, KSDS and settlement status must be confirmed by VIN. The 2.0T is quick; the Hybrid is the economy pick if its recalls are done.

Generation 7 (2015–2019)

The seventh-generation (LF) Sonata offered a 185-hp 2.4L, a 245-hp 2.0L turbo (8-speed automatic from 2018) and a 1.6L turbo Eco with a 7-speed dual-clutch, plus a new 2.0L Hybrid (about 193 hp) and the first Plug-in Hybrid (about 27 electric miles) from 2016. A 2018 refresh restyled the front and rear and retuned the suspension.

Buyer takeaway: A quiet, roomy commuter. The 2018-2019 refresh is the nicer buy; the Hybrid is the efficiency pick. Confirm KSDS and settlement status on gas four-cylinders.

Generation 8 (2020–present)

The eighth-generation (DN8) Sonata has fastback styling, a 191-hp 2.5L and (through 2023) a 180-hp 1.6L turbo with an 8-speed automatic, a 192-hp 2.0L Hybrid (up to about 52 mpg), and from 2021 the 290-hp N Line with an 8-speed wet dual-clutch. The 2024 refresh added a light-bar nose, a curved dual-screen dash, column shifter and available AWD; 2026 consolidated trims and added a Hybrid Blue.

Buyer takeaway: The Hybrid is the best value for high-mileage drivers, the N Line suits enthusiasts, and 2024-on models are the choice for AWD and the newest tech.

Hyundai Sonata by model year

2026 Hyundai Sonata

For 2026 Hyundai consolidated the SEL variants into an SEL Sport (the only AWD Sonata) and added a lower-priced Hybrid Blue rated about 51 mpg combined. Powertrains carry over: a 191-hp 2.5L with an 8-speed automatic (about 28/38 mpg in SE), the 290-hp N Line with an 8-speed dual-clutch, and the 192-hp Hybrid. Verify final 2026 trims and specs with Hyundai.

Engines: 2.5 liter I4 191 hp 181 lb ft; 2.5 liter turbo I4 290 hp 311 lb ft n line; 2.0 liter hybrid 192 hp combined
Transmissions: 8 speed automatic; 8 speed wet dual clutch n line; 6 speed automatic hybrid
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive SEL sport only
Body style: 4 door midsize sedan

What changed:

SEL trims consolidated into SEL sport
New lower priced hybrid blue trim about 51 mpg
AWD offered only on SEL sport

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Driver assistance cameras and radar; Digital key and infotainment operation; Hybrid system warning lights; Hybrid battery cooling intake clear; 12 volt battery condition; AWD operation if equipped.

2025 Hyundai Sonata

The 2025 Sonata carries over the refreshed design: the 191-hp 2.5L with an 8-speed automatic and available AWD on the SEL (about 32 mpg combined in front-drive SE form, 28 with AWD), the 290-hp front-drive N Line with an 8-speed dual-clutch, and the 192-hp Hybrid at about 47 mpg combined. Trims include SE, SEL, SEL Convenience, N Line and Hybrid versions.

Engines: 2.5 liter I4 191 hp 181 lb ft; 2.5 liter turbo I4 290 hp 311 lb ft n line; 2.0 liter hybrid 192 hp combined
Transmissions: 8 speed automatic; 8 speed wet dual clutch n line; 6 speed automatic hybrid
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive available on SEL 2.5 liter
Body style: 4 door midsize sedan

What changed:

Largely carryover
SEL convenience trim offered

2024 Hyundai Sonata

The 2024 refresh brought a full-width light bar, a new cabin with dual 12.3-inch curved screens and a steering-column shifter, and the first available all-wheel drive (2.5L SEL). Engines are the 191-hp 2.5L (8-speed automatic, about 25/36 mpg SEL front-drive), the 290-hp N Line (8-speed dual-clutch) and the 192-hp Hybrid (about 47 mpg combined). The 1.6L turbo was dropped.

Engines: 2.5 liter I4 191 hp 181 lb ft; 2.5 liter turbo I4 290 hp 311 lb ft n line; 2.0 liter hybrid 192 hp combined
Transmissions: 8 speed automatic; 8 speed wet dual clutch n line; 6 speed automatic hybrid
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive available on SEL 2.5 liter
Body style: 4 door midsize sedan

What changed:

New front end with full width light bar
Dual 12 3 inch curved displays and column mounted shifter
First sonata with available all wheel drive
1.6 liter turbo dropped

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine and transmission by VIN; Driver assistance cameras and radar; Digital key and infotainment operation; Hybrid system warning lights; Hybrid battery cooling intake clear; 12 volt battery condition; AWD operation if equipped; Dual clutch low speed behavior n line; Maintenance history.

2023 Hyundai Sonata

The 2023 Sonata is the last before the 2024 facelift and the last with the 180-hp 1.6L turbo. The 191-hp 2.5L (about 27-28/37-38 mpg), 290-hp N Line and 192-hp Hybrid (about 47-52 mpg combined) continue. A 2023 can be a better value than a 2024 if the newer look and available AWD are not priorities. Check the fuel tank check valve recall by VIN.

Engines: 2.5 liter I4 191 hp 181 lb ft; 1.6 liter turbo I4 180 hp 195 lb ft; 2.5 liter turbo I4 290 hp 311 lb ft n line; 2.0 liter hybrid 192 hp combined
Transmissions: 8 speed automatic; 8 speed wet dual clutch n line; 6 speed automatic hybrid
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive
Body style: 4 door midsize sedan

What changed:

Final year before the 2024 refresh
Final year of the 1.6 liter turbo

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine and transmission by VIN; Driver assistance cameras and radar; Digital key and infotainment operation; Hybrid system warning lights; Hybrid battery cooling intake clear; 12 volt battery condition; Fuel tank check valve recall completion; Maintenance history.

2022 Hyundai Sonata

The 2022 Sonata carries over the 191-hp 2.5L and 180-hp 1.6L turbo (8-speed automatic, about 27-28/37-38 mpg), the 290-hp N Line with its 8-speed dual-clutch, and the 192-hp Hybrid (about 47 mpg, 52 in Blue trim). It offers a lot of tech and space for the money. Check the N Line's fuel-pipe and transmission recalls and the 2020-2023 fuel tank check valve recall by VIN.

Engines: 2.5 liter I4 191 hp 181 lb ft; 1.6 liter turbo I4 180 hp 195 lb ft; 2.5 liter turbo I4 290 hp 311 lb ft n line; 2.0 liter hybrid 192 hp combined
Transmissions: 8 speed automatic; 8 speed wet dual clutch n line; 6 speed automatic hybrid
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive
Body style: 4 door midsize sedan

What changed:

Largely carryover
N line continues with 290 hp

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine and transmission by VIN; Driver assistance cameras and radar; Digital key and infotainment operation; Hybrid system warning lights; Hybrid battery cooling intake clear; 12 volt battery condition; N line fuel pipe and dct recall completion; Fuel tank check valve recall completion; Maintenance history.

2021 Hyundai Sonata

For 2021 Hyundai added the Sonata N Line: a 290-hp, 311 lb-ft 2.5L turbo with an 8-speed wet dual-clutch (about 23/33 mpg), sportier suspension and styling. The 191-hp 2.5L and 180-hp 1.6L turbo (8-speed automatic) and the 192-hp Hybrid (47-52 mpg combined) carry over. 2021-2022 N Lines have fuel-pipe and dual-clutch oil pump recalls; confirm by VIN.

Engines: 2.5 liter I4 191 hp 181 lb ft; 1.6 liter turbo I4 180 hp 195 lb ft; 2.5 liter turbo I4 290 hp 311 lb ft n line; 2.0 liter hybrid 192 hp combined
Transmissions: 8 speed automatic; 8 speed wet dual clutch n line; 6 speed automatic hybrid
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive
Body style: 4 door midsize sedan

What changed:

New 290 hp n line with 8 speed wet dual clutch
Safe exit warning added

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine and transmission by VIN; Driver assistance cameras and radar; Digital key and infotainment operation; Hybrid system warning lights; Hybrid battery cooling intake clear; 12 volt battery condition; N line fuel pipe and dct recall completion; Dual clutch low speed behavior n line; Fuel tank check valve recall completion; Maintenance history.

2020 Hyundai Sonata

The all-new 2020 Sonata has dramatic fastback styling and new engines: a 191-hp 2.5L (about 27-28/37-38 mpg) and a 180-hp, 195 lb-ft 1.6L turbo, both with an 8-speed automatic. The new Hybrid (2.0L plus motor, 192 hp combined) reaches about 52 mpg combined in Blue trim, and the Limited Hybrid offers a solar roof. Standard automatic emergency braking and lane keeping assist are included.

Engines: 2.5 liter I4 191 hp 181 lb ft; 1.6 liter turbo I4 180 hp 195 lb ft; 2.0 liter hybrid 192 hp combined
Transmissions: 8 speed automatic; 6 speed automatic hybrid
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive
Body style: 4 door midsize sedan

What changed:

All new eighth generation with fastback styling
New 2.5 liter and 1.6 liter turbo with 8 speed automatic
New hybrid with available solar roof hybrid blue about 52 mpg
Available digital key and remote smart parking

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine and transmission by VIN; Driver assistance cameras and radar; Digital key and infotainment operation; Hybrid system warning lights; Hybrid battery cooling intake clear; 12 volt battery condition; Fuel tank check valve recall completion; Suspension and steering noise; Brakes and rotors; Tires and alignment; Maintenance history.

2019 Hyundai Sonata

The 2019 Sonata is the last of the seventh generation and the last with the 2.4L, the 245-hp 2.0L turbo and the Plug-in Hybrid. The 185-hp 2.4L (about 25-26/33-35 mpg) and 1.6L turbo Eco continue, and the Hybrid is rated about 41-42 mpg combined. It is the last Sonata eligible for the Theta II settlement and the anti-theft update, so check both by VIN.

Engines: 2.4 liter gdi I4 185 hp 178 lb ft; 2.0 liter turbo gdi I4 245 hp 260 lb ft; 1.6 liter turbo gdi I4 about 178 hp 195 lb ft eco; 2.0 liter gdi hybrid about 193 hp combined; 2.0 liter gdi plug in hybrid about 200 hp combined
Transmissions: 6 speed automatic 2.4 liter; 8 speed automatic 2 0 turbo; 7 speed dual clutch 1 6 turbo eco; 6 speed automatic hybrid and plug in hybrid
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive
Body style: 4 door midsize sedan

What changed:

Final year of the seventh generation
Final year of the plug in hybrid
Final year of the 2 0 turbo

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine and transmission by VIN; Anti theft software update status if key start; Engine knock or oil pressure warning; Ksds software and engine warranty status; Oil level and consumption; Hybrid system warning lights; Hybrid battery cooling intake clear; 12 volt battery condition; Suspension and steering noise; Brakes and rotors; Tires and alignment; Infotainment and backup camera; Maintenance history.

2018 Hyundai Sonata

The 2018 refresh brought a new nose and tail, retuned suspension and steering, and an 8-speed automatic for the 245-hp 2.0L turbo (about 23/32 mpg). The 185-hp 2.4L (6-speed automatic, about 25/35 mpg), 1.6L turbo Eco, Hybrid and Plug-in Hybrid continue. 2018 gas four-cylinders are covered by the Theta II settlement; confirm the KSDS update.

Engines: 2.4 liter gdi I4 185 hp 178 lb ft; 2.0 liter turbo gdi I4 245 hp 260 lb ft; 1.6 liter turbo gdi I4 about 178 hp 195 lb ft eco; 2.0 liter gdi hybrid about 193 hp combined; 2.0 liter gdi plug in hybrid about 200 hp combined
Transmissions: 6 speed automatic 2.4 liter; 8 speed automatic 2 0 turbo; 7 speed dual clutch 1 6 turbo eco; 6 speed automatic hybrid and plug in hybrid
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive
Body style: 4 door midsize sedan

What changed:

New front and rear styling with cascading grille
2 0 turbo gains 8 speed automatic
Revised rear suspension and steering
More standard safety equipment

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine and transmission by VIN; Anti theft software update status if key start; Engine knock or oil pressure warning; Ksds software and engine warranty status; Oil level and consumption; Hybrid system warning lights; Hybrid battery cooling intake clear; 12 volt battery condition; Driver assistance sensors if equipped; Suspension and steering noise; Brakes and rotors; Tires and alignment; Infotainment and backup camera; Maintenance history.

2017 Hyundai Sonata

The 2017 Sonata carries over the 185-hp 2.4L (about 25/36 mpg), 245-hp 2.0L turbo and 1.6L turbo Eco, plus the Hybrid (about 40-42 mpg combined) and Plug-in Hybrid. It is the last year before the 2018 restyle, so it can be a value buy. Gas four-cylinders are in Hyundai's Theta II settlement and knock-sensor software campaign.

Engines: 2.4 liter gdi I4 185 hp 178 lb ft; 2.0 liter turbo gdi I4 245 hp 260 lb ft; 1.6 liter turbo gdi I4 about 178 hp 195 lb ft eco; 2.0 liter gdi hybrid about 193 hp combined; 2.0 liter gdi plug in hybrid about 200 hp combined
Transmissions: 6 speed automatic 2.4 liter and 2 0 turbo; 7 speed dual clutch 1 6 turbo eco; 6 speed automatic hybrid and plug in hybrid
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive
Body style: 4 door midsize sedan

What changed:

Largely carryover
Final year before the 2018 refresh

2016 Hyundai Sonata

For 2016 the new-generation Sonata Hybrid arrived (2.0L plus motor, about 193 hp, roughly 38-39/41-42 mpg), along with the first Sonata Plug-in Hybrid, which has about 27 miles of EPA electric range. Gas models keep the 185-hp 2.4L, 245-hp 2.0L turbo and 1.6L turbo Eco with a 7-speed dual-clutch. Certain 2016 Hybrids are in a connecting rod bearing recall; check the VIN.

Engines: 2.4 liter gdi I4 185 hp 178 lb ft; 2.0 liter turbo gdi I4 245 hp 260 lb ft; 1.6 liter turbo gdi I4 about 178 hp 195 lb ft eco; 2.0 liter gdi hybrid about 193 hp combined; 2.0 liter gdi plug in hybrid about 200 hp combined
Transmissions: 6 speed automatic 2.4 liter and 2 0 turbo; 7 speed dual clutch 1 6 turbo eco; 6 speed automatic hybrid and plug in hybrid
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive
Body style: 4 door midsize sedan

What changed:

New generation sonata hybrid about 39 43 mpg
First sonata plug in hybrid about 27 electric miles
Hybrid and plug in hybrid use a 6 speed automatic

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine and transmission by VIN; Anti theft software update status if key start; Engine knock or oil pressure warning; Ksds software and engine warranty status; Oil level and consumption; Hybrid system warning lights; Hybrid battery cooling intake clear; 12 volt battery condition; Hybrid engine bearing recall completion 2016; Charging equipment if plug in; Suspension and steering noise; Brakes and rotors; Tires and alignment; Infotainment and backup camera; Maintenance history.

2015 Hyundai Sonata

The redesigned 2015 Sonata is roomier and more conservative-looking. Engines are a 185-hp 2.4L (about 24/36 mpg with the 6-speed automatic), a 245-hp, 260 lb-ft 2.0L turbo tuned for low-end torque, and a new Eco with a roughly 178-hp 1.6L turbo and 7-speed dual-clutch (about 28/36 mpg). The previous-generation Hybrid was sold alongside. 2.4L and 2.0T engines are in Hyundai's Theta II settlement.

Engines: 2.4 liter gdi I4 185 hp 178 lb ft; 2.0 liter turbo gdi I4 245 hp 260 lb ft; 1.6 liter turbo gdi I4 about 178 hp 195 lb ft eco; 2.4 liter hybrid carryover previous generation
Transmissions: 6 speed automatic 2.4 liter and 2 0 turbo; 7 speed dual clutch 1 6 turbo eco; 6 speed automatic hybrid
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive
Body style: 4 door midsize sedan

What changed:

All new seventh generation with more conservative styling
New 1.6 liter turbo eco with 7 speed dual clutch
2 0 turbo retuned to 245 hp for more low end torque
Previous generation hybrid sold alongside

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine and transmission by VIN; Anti theft software update status if key start; Engine knock or oil pressure warning; Ksds software and engine warranty status; Oil level and consumption; Dual clutch low speed behavior eco; Suspension and steering noise; Brakes and rotors; Tires and alignment; Infotainment and backup camera; Maintenance history.

2014 Hyundai Sonata

The 2014 Sonata got a new grille, available HID headlights and LED taillights, and selectable steering modes. The 2.4L was re-rated to 190 hp (192 in SE), while the 2.0L turbo stays at 274 hp; both use a 6-speed automatic (about 24/34 mpg 2.4L). The Hybrid continues (about 37 mpg combined). 2014 gas engines are in the Theta II recall and settlement.

Engines: 2.4 liter gdi I4 190 hp 192 hp se; 2.0 liter turbo gdi I4 274 hp 269 lb ft; 2.4 liter hybrid about 199 hp combined
Transmissions: 6 speed automatic
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive
Body style: 4 door midsize sedan

What changed:

New grille and available hid headlights and LED taillights
Driver selectable steering modes
2.4 liter rerated to 190 hp
Final year of the sixth generation gas models

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine and transmission by VIN; Anti theft software update status if key start; Theta ii engine recall completion 2013 2014; Engine knock or oil pressure warning; Ksds software and engine warranty status; Oil level and consumption; Suspension and steering noise; Brakes and rotors; Tires and alignment; Infotainment and backup camera; Maintenance history.

2013 Hyundai Sonata

The 2013 Sonata keeps the 198-200-hp 2.4L and 274-hp 2.0L turbo, now essentially automatic-only (EPA still lists a manual; verify by VIN). Hyundai reworked the Hybrid around this time, raising combined output to about 199 hp and EPA mpg to about 37 combined. 2013-2014 2.4L and 2.0T engines were recalled in 2017 for possible bearing wear; check the VIN.

Engines: 2.4 liter gdi I4 198 hp 200 hp se; 2.0 liter turbo gdi I4 274 hp 269 lb ft; 2.4 liter hybrid about 206 hp combined
Transmissions: 6 speed automatic; 6 speed manual rare verify by VIN
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive
Body style: 4 door midsize sedan

What changed:

Manual transmission dropped or rare
Heated front seats more widely available
2013 2014 engines in 2017 theta ii recall

2012 Hyundai Sonata

The 2012 Sonata carries over: a 198-hp 2.4L (200 hp in SE) with a manual or 6-speed automatic, a 274-hp 2.0L turbo, and the Hybrid (about 34/39 mpg). Hyundai recalled 2011-2012 Sonatas with 2.4L and 2.0T engines because machining debris could restrict oil flow to the connecting rod bearings and lead to engine failure, so confirm the recall inspection or engine replacement by VIN.

Engines: 2.4 liter gdi I4 198 hp 200 hp se; 2.0 liter turbo gdi I4 274 hp 269 lb ft; 2.4 liter hybrid about 206 hp combined
Transmissions: 6 speed manual base 2.4 liter; 6 speed automatic
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive
Body style: 4 door midsize sedan

What changed:

Largely carryover
2.4 liter and 2 0 turbo in 2015 theta ii engine recall

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine and transmission by VIN; Anti theft software update status if key start; Theta ii engine recall completion 2011 2012; Engine knock or oil pressure warning; Ksds software and engine warranty status; Oil level and consumption; Clutch wear if manual; Suspension and steering noise; Brakes and rotors; Tires and alignment; Infotainment and backup camera; Maintenance history.

2011 Hyundai Sonata

The 2011 Sonata was a dramatic redesign with coupe-like styling and four-cylinder engines only: a 198-hp direct-injected 2.4L (200 hp in the SE) with a 6-speed manual on the base GLS or a 6-speed automatic (about 22/34 mpg), and a 274-hp, 269 lb-ft 2.0L turbo. The first Sonata Hybrid paired a 2.4L with an electric motor (about 34/39 mpg). 2011-2012 2.4L and 2.0T engines are in a Theta II engine recall.

Engines: 2.4 liter gdi I4 198 hp 200 hp se; 2.0 liter turbo gdi I4 274 hp 269 lb ft; 2.4 liter hybrid about 206 hp combined
Transmissions: 6 speed manual base 2.4 liter; 6 speed automatic
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive
Body style: 4 door midsize sedan

What changed:

All new sixth generation with fluidic sculpture styling
Four cylinder only no V6
New 274 hp 2.0 liter turbo
First sonata hybrid

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine and transmission by VIN; Anti theft software update status if key start; Theta ii engine recall completion 2011 2012; Engine knock or oil pressure warning; Ksds software and engine warranty status; Oil level and consumption; Steering and brake recall completion 2011; Clutch wear if manual; Suspension and steering noise; Brakes and rotors; Tires and alignment; Infotainment and backup camera; Maintenance history.

Known issues and what to check

Theta II Engine Recalls (2011-2014 2.4L and 2.0L Turbo) (2011–2014)
Hyundai recalled 2011-2012 Sonatas (NHTSA 15V-568) and 2013-2014 Sonatas (17V-226) with 2.4L and 2.0L turbo direct-injected engines because machining debris or errors could restrict oil flow and cause premature connecting rod bearing wear, leading to knocking and possible engine failure or stalling. A follow-up recall (18V-934) addresses high-pressure fuel pipes that may have been damaged during engine replacement.
What to do: Ask for proof of recall inspection or engine replacement and have the engine listened to before buying.
Theta II Settlement, Lifetime Short-Block Coverage and KSDS Update (2011–2019)
2011-2019 Sonatas with 2.4L or 2.0L direct-injected Theta II engines are included in Hyundai's 2019 engine class settlement, which provides lifetime coverage for short-block repairs caused by connecting rod bearing failure (conditions apply, including installation of the Knock Sensor Detection System software). KSDS flashes the check-engine light and puts the car in limp mode if it detects early bearing wear (code P1326).
What to do: Confirm the KSDS update and ask a Hyundai dealer what engine coverage applies to the VIN.
Sonata Hybrid Engine Bearing and ABS Fire-Risk Recalls (2011–2016)
Certain 2011-2013 and 2016 Sonata Hybrids were recalled because connecting rod bearings may wear prematurely (20V-746), and certain 2011-2015 Sonata Hybrids are in the 2023 ABS-module recall (23V-651), in which brake fluid can leak inside the module and cause an engine-compartment fire; Hyundai advised parking outside until repaired.
What to do: Confirm both recalls on a 2011-2016 Sonata Hybrid before buying.
Dual-Clutch Transmissions (1.6T Eco and N Line) (2015–2026)
2015-2019 Sonata Eco models pair a 1.6L turbo with a 7-speed dual-clutch, and 2021-on N Lines use an 8-speed wet dual-clutch. These can feel different from a conventional automatic at low speed. Certain 2021-2022 N Lines were recalled for a transmission oil pump problem that can cause loss of drive power (22V-746), and for a 2.5L turbo fuel-pipe leak (21V-524).
What to do: Test-drive Eco and N Line models in traffic and confirm recalls are complete.
Anti-Theft Software Update (2011-2019 Key-Start Models) (2011–2019)
2011-2019 Sonatas with a conventional turn-key ignition are eligible for Hyundai's free 2023 anti-theft software update, which requires the key fob to unlock the car before it will start. Push-button-start models are not affected.
What to do: Ask a Hyundai dealer to confirm the update; it is free.
Other Notable Safety Recalls (Seat Belts, Shift Cable, Fuel Tank) (2011–2023)
Other recalls apply to specific years: 2011-2014 Sonatas for front seat belt linkages that may detach from the pretensioners (17V-152/17V-617) and a shift cable that may detach (14V-434); and 2020-2023 Sonatas for a fuel-tank check valve that can let the tank deform and contact hot exhaust parts (25V-796).
What to do: Confirm every open recall for the VIN is complete.

Recalls

Recall applicability varies by model year, engine, transmission, production date and VIN. Check the VIN for open recalls, confirm Theta II engine recall, KSDS and settlement status on 2011-2019 four-cylinders, and confirm the anti-theft update on key-start models.

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Questions this guide answers

What generation is this Hyundai Sonata?
What engine and transmission does this Sonata have?
Is this Sonata part of the Theta II engine recall or settlement?
Has the KSDS software update been installed?
Does this Sonata need the anti-theft software update?
What fuel economy does the Sonata Hybrid get?
What is the Sonata N Line?
Which Sonata years have all-wheel drive?
What changed in the 2024 Sonata refresh?
What similar midsize sedans should I consider?