Last updated: 2026-04-20

2023 Hyundai Sonata Reliability Report
The 2023 Hyundai Sonata scores 62/100 ("Good"). With 2 recalls and 87 owner complaints, reliability is acceptable but not class-leading.
Recalls
2
Complaints
87
Complaint Rate
21.4per 10,000 sold
Est. Repair Cost
N/A
Annual Fuel Cost
$1,850–$2,200
Detailed Score Breakdown
Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume
Independent repair cost ratings
Recall count weighted by severity
Breadth of reported problem categories
The Verdict
Acceptable reliability — worth considering with a pre-purchase inspection.
Top Issues to Watch
- FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM (18)
- ENGINE (16)
- POWER TRAIN (15)
Generation & Refresh (US)
2023 received a facelift 2023 update for the Eighth generation (DN8).
- Changes: Updated design language; New tech features.
- Year 4 in this generation (2020–2023).
- 8th generation Sonata (US).
What this means for buyers
Refresh years bring updates but can also introduce new issues. Check early recall data before buying.
2020: Eighth generation (DN8) Launch
Generation start — new platform.
2023: This Model Year (Refresh)
2023 received a facelift 2023 update for the Eighth generation (DN8).
Should You Buy the 2023 Hyundai Sonata?
At 62/100, the 2023 Hyundai Sonata lands in "Good" territory — acceptable, but not class-leading. 2023 received a facelift 2023 update for the Eighth generation (DN8).
Its complaint rate of 21.4 per 10,000 vehicles sold runs above the Sedan segment average of 14.6. The most common reports involve fuel propulsion system (18).
Get a pre-purchase inspection on any used example, with extra attention to fuel propulsion system (18). An extended warranty is worth pricing out.
Compared to the 2024 Hyundai Sonata, which scored 11 points higher. See also the 2022 Hyundai Sonata for an earlier comparison.
Pros
- +Acceptable reliability score
- +Low recall count
- +5-star NHTSA crash rating
Cons
- −Above-average complaint rate for Sedan
- −FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM issues reported (18 complaints)
- −ENGINE: Two primary engine-related issues with the 2023 Hyundai Sonata (16 complaints)
- −Safety recall: park-outside advisory issued
Compare 2023 Hyundai Sonata With

2023 KIA K5
Reliability: 71/100

2023 Toyota Camry
Reliability: 79/100

2023 Nissan Altima
Reliability: 84/100

2023 Honda Accord
Reliability: 74/100

2023 Chevrolet Malibu
Reliability: 81/100
Common Problem Categories
Safety
LOW RISK- 2 manufacturer recalls issued
Other
HIGH RISK- FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM (18)
- ENGINE (16)
Recall Overview
2
recalls on record
The 2023 Hyundai Sonata carries 2 recalls — a low count. Authorized dealers repair any open recall free of charge, regardless of warranty status.
NHTSA.gov →Complaint Breakdown
21.4
per 10,000 soldSegment avg: 14.6
Safety Incidents
6
Crashes
0
Fires
2
Injuries
0
Deaths
NHTSA 5/5 Stars
Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.
2023 Hyundai Sonata Recall Details
2 recalls have been issued for the 2023 Hyundai Sonata. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2020-2023 Sonata vehicles. A damaged check valve can allow air to enter the fuel tank, causing it to expand and contact hot exhaust components, melting the tank.
Consequence
A melted fuel tank can leak, increasing the risk of a fire.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect and replace the check valve. The fuel tank assembly will be inspected for damage and replaced if necessary. Additionally, dealers will inspect and update the engine control unit software. All repairs will be performed as necessary, free of charge. Interim notification letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed beginning January 15, 2026. Additional letters will be sent once the final remedy is available. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 286. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on November 19, 2025.
POWER TRAIN
Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2023-2024 Palisade Tucson, 2023 Sonata, Elantra, and Kona vehicles. The electronic controller for the Idle Stop & Go oil pump assembly may contain damaged electrical components that can cause the pump controller to overheat.
Consequence
An electric oil pump assembly that overheats increases the risk of a vehicle fire.
Remedy
Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures until the recall repair is complete. Dealers will inspect and replace the electric oil pump controller, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed starting September 7, 2023. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 246.
Buying a used 2023 Hyundai Sonata? Check its history first
Every 2023 Hyundai Sonata has a different past. A VIN check reveals hidden accidents, title problems, odometer rollbacks, and open recalls that reliability scores can't show you.
- Accidents
- Open Recalls
- Title History
- Odometer Rollback
2023 Hyundai Sonata NHTSA Safety Ratings
Overall Safety Rating
Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)
Gas Powertrain
Rollover risk: 9.7%
Safety Technologies
HEV Powertrain
Rollover risk: 9.7%
Safety Technologies
Hyundai SonataRepair Costs & Maintenance
Maintenance Rating
3Maintenance rating: 3 out of 5Based on NHTSA complaint patterns, recall severity, and publicly available cost benchmarks.
Category-level averages derived from publicly available industry reports (AAA, CarMD). Model-level estimates produced by Auto Reliability Index.
Hyundai Sonata Resale Value
The Hyundai Sonata is estimated to retain about 56% of its original value after 5 years, based on observed used-car listings.
This benchmark covers the Hyundai Sonata model overall and is not specific to the 2023 model year.
- Value Retained
- 56%
- Depreciation
- 44%
- Listings Analyzed
- 359
after 5 years
over the same period
U.S. used-car listings
Listings observed in . This is a historical market benchmark, not a current price quote.
Explore Hyundai Sonata depreciation and resale value on CarResaleValue.comMPG & Annual Running Costs
Gas
27–32 MPG
Fuel cost: $1,850–$2,200/yr
Fuel only
23–28 city / 33–38 hwy MPG
Hybrid
47–52 MPG
Fuel cost: $1,150–$1,250/yr
Fuel only
45–50 city / 51–54 hwy MPG
Based on EPA fuel-cost estimates. Excludes routine maintenance, depreciation, and insurance. Data as of 2023 EPA label cycle.
Gas trims
| Trim | Drive | Trans. | City | Hwy | Comb | Fuel Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sonata 2.5L 4-cyl | Front-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S8) | 28 | 38 | 32 | $1,850 |
| Sonata 1.6L 4-cyl | Front-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S8) | 27 | 37 | 31 | $1,950 |
| Sonata 2.5L 4-cyl | Front-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S8) | 27 | 37 | 31 | $1,950 |
| Sonata 2.5L 4-cyl | Front-Wheel Drive | Automatic (AM-S8) | 23 | 33 | 27 | $2,200 |
Hybrid trims
| Trim | Drive | Trans. | City | Hwy | Comb | Fuel Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sonata Hybrid Blue 2.0L 4-cyl | Front-Wheel Drive | Automatic (AM-S6) | 50 | 54 | 52 | $1,150 |
| Sonata Hybrid 2.0L 4-cyl | Front-Wheel Drive | Automatic (AM-S6) | 45 | 51 | 47 | $1,250 |
Used Buying Checklist
Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing a 2023 Hyundai Sonata.
Inspect for coolant leaks and check coolant levels
Test for sudden loss of power or stalling during a test drive
Check for any fuel injector replacement history
Verify if the fuel tank or pressure valve has been replaced
Test drive to check for unexpected gear shifts or transmission issues
Check for any unresolved recall repairs related to the fuel system
2023 Hyundai Sonata Common Problems by Component
87 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
18 complaintsOwners report frequent issues with the fuel injectors in the 2023 Hyundai Sonata, often leading to sudden loss of power and engine stalling. Typical symptoms include the vehicle shaking violently, failing to accelerate, and emitting strong gasoline odors. Complaints often occur at various mileage points, with some as low as 5,600 miles and others around 30,000 miles, indicating a potential problem across different usage levels. Safety concerns are significant, as multiple owners describe losing control on highways and busy roads, with some incidents nearly resulting in collisions. Buyers should be aware of these recurring injector failures and the associated risks when considering this model.
ENGINE
16 complaintsOwners report two primary engine-related issues with the 2023 Hyundai Sonata. The first involves coolant system defects, where complaints frequently mention internal coolant leaks leading to engine overheating, white smoke from the exhaust, and loss of interior heating. These issues often occur around 13,500 miles and have left multiple vehicles undriveable, with repairs not always covered under warranty. The second issue involves fuel injector failures, which result in engine power loss, stalling, and occasional fuel leaks, with some incidents occurring as early as 11,000 miles. Both problems pose safety risks, such as sudden power loss in traffic and potential fire hazards, making them significant considerations for prospective buyers.
POWER TRAIN
15 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2023 Hyundai Sonata frequently report issues related to the power train, particularly involving unexpected gear shifts and loss of power. Complaints often describe the vehicle unexpectedly shifting from drive to park or failing to accelerate, with some incidents resulting in crashes. Several owners mention experiencing complete power loss while driving, with dashboard warning lights activating, typically at speeds above 60 mph. These issues commonly appear within the first year of ownership, and mileage varies widely, with some incidents occurring as early as a few hundred miles. Safety implications are significant, with reports of crashes and near-misses due to sudden loss of control or unintended vehicle movement.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (8 complaints)
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
8 complaintsOwners report several electrical system issues with the 2023 Hyundai Sonata, including stalling and loss of power. Complaints frequently mention the car shutting down unexpectedly, often during deceleration or when shifting to park, with some reports describing dashboard lights flashing and media screens blacking out. Multiple owners describe needing to restart the vehicle to regain function, and one report highlights battery discharge within ten days when parked, suggesting inadequate battery capacity for electronic systems. Safety implications arise as these issues occur while driving, posing potential risks of accidents. The problems appear to affect both new vehicles and those with minimal mileage, as indicated by owners who report issues soon after purchase.
FUEL SYSTEM (5 complaints)
FUEL SYSTEM
5 complaintsOwners of the 2023 Hyundai Sonata frequently report issues related to the fuel system, with several complaints highlighting problems such as swollen fuel tanks and faulty fuel injectors. Typical symptoms include illuminated check engine warning lights, unexpected deceleration or stalling, and abnormal fuel gauge readings. Mileage at the time of these issues varies, with some reports occurring around 5,000 miles and others as high as 75,000 miles. Safety implications are noted in cases where vehicles decelerate or stall abruptly, potentially leading to hazardous driving conditions. These patterns could be useful for potential buyers to consider, especially regarding the availability of parts for necessary repairs.
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE (4 complaints)
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
4 complaintsOwners report issues with the forward collision avoidance system in the 2023 Hyundai Sonata, particularly involving unexpected emergency braking. Complaints frequently mention the system activating without apparent cause while driving at highway speeds, leading to sudden deceleration and potential safety hazards, such as the risk of rear-end collisions. One owner notes the system's radar becomes obstructed by snow and ice, rendering it inoperable during adverse weather conditions. Additionally, there are reports of the adaptive cruise control behaving unpredictably, such as abrupt acceleration after braking when another vehicle changes lanes. These incidents typically occur at higher speeds, around 60-70 mph, and suggest potential safety implications for drivers and passengers.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL (4 complaints)
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
4 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2023 Hyundai Sonata report issues with vehicle speed control, including unintended acceleration and loss of acceleration. Complaints frequently mention sudden acceleration when parking, leading to crashes, as well as hesitation and deceleration while driving, sometimes resulting in a complete loss of speed. These issues are reported both shortly after purchase and after several weeks of driving. Two incidents involve crashes with one resulting in two injuries, highlighting significant safety implications. Buyers should be aware of these potential issues, particularly regarding the vehicle's response to accelerator input and the effectiveness of the braking system.
STEERING (2 complaints)
STEERING
2 complaintsOwners report issues with the steering and associated safety features in the 2023 Hyundai Sonata. Complaints frequently mention a loss of power steering and other safety features, such as Lane Assist and Forward Collision Avoidance, particularly in cold weather. One owner describes the problem as recurring and resulting in swerving into oncoming or neighboring lanes. Another owner reports engine shaking and loss of power at around 9,500 and 19,000 miles, leading to an inability to steer the vehicle. Both instances involve safety concerns, with the vehicle becoming difficult to control, and the issue remains unresolved by the dealership.
SERVICE BRAKES (2 complaints)
SERVICE BRAKES
2 complaintsOwners of the 2023 Hyundai Sonata report frequent brake issues, with one owner detailing the need to replace brakes four times within the first 40,000 miles. This owner also mentions replacing rotors once and resurfacing them, indicating potential premature wear of brake components. Another issue noted involves the calipers, which are on backorder, suggesting possible supply challenges. While no crashes or loss of control are reported, the repeated need for brake replacements could imply maintenance concerns for potential buyers. These complaints highlight the importance of monitoring brake system components closely when considering a used 2023 Hyundai Sonata.
STRUCTURE (2 complaints)
STRUCTURE
2 complaintsOwners of the 2023 Hyundai Sonata report issues with water entering the rear left door and becoming trapped between the lower door seals. This results in water pouring out when the door is opened. Complaints frequently mention that this condition is described as common to the model by dealers, and attempts to address the issue with Hyundai have been unsuccessful. There are safety concerns noted, particularly the risk of ice formation in colder climates, which could prevent the door from opening in emergencies. This issue appears to be recognized by multiple owners and is acknowledged by both dealers and Hyundai representatives as a recurring condition.
When Do 2023 Hyundai Sonata Problems Start?
Based on owner complaint patterns, here's when common issues tend to appear.
Best & Worst Hyundai Sonata Years
Comprehensive reliability analysis based on NHTSA data, owner complaints, and historical performance.
Best Hyundai Sonata Years to Buy
Based on reliability index scoreThe best Hyundai Sonata year is 2025 with a reliability score of 76/100, rated good. Other strong picks include 2026 (75/100) and 2024 (73/100).
Hyundai Sonata Years to Avoid
The worst Hyundai Sonata year is 2018 with a score of 61/100, primarily due to engine (116) issues. Also avoid 2023 (62/100).
2018
2023
(Current Model)
Hyundai Sonata Reliability Score Trend
Hyundai Sonata reliability has improved in recent years, with newer models scoring an average of 70/100 compared to 65/100 for older years.
Scores 0–100. Higher is better. Current year highlighted.
| Year | Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| 2018 | 61/100 | Good |
| 2019 | 71/100 | Good |
| 2020 | 62/100 | Good |
| 2021 | 64/100 | Good |
| 2022 | 65/100 | Good |
| 2023 | 62/100 | Good |
| 2024 | 73/100 | Good |
| 2025 | 76/100 | Good |
| 2026 | 75/100 | Good |
Hyundai Sonata Reliability Compared to Other Years
2023 Hyundai Sonata Reliability by Powertrain
The 2023 Hyundai Sonata is available with 2powertrain options. Here's how they compare on reliability.
| Powertrain | Complaints | Recalls | Incidents* | Crash Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gas | 72 | 2 | 3 | 5 out of 5 |
| HEV | 15 | 0 | 3 | 5 out of 5 |
| Total | 87 | 2 | 6 |
NHTSA tracks complaints by vehicle configuration when that detail is available. Model-level reports that do not identify a specific powertrain are included in Total but not assigned to a row. A plus sign indicates a confirmed minimum; — means no complaints could be attributed to that specific powertrain. N/T = Not tested by NHTSA.
* Incidents = crash + fire reports. A single complaint can include multiple incident types.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2023 Hyundai Sonata reliable?
What are the most common problems with the 2023 Hyundai Sonata?
How many recalls does the 2023 Hyundai Sonata have?
Is the 2023 Hyundai Sonata expensive to maintain?
Don’t buy a 2023 Hyundai Sonata without checking its VIN first — hidden accidents, title issues, and open recalls could cost you thousands.
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How We Calculate Reliability Scores
Auto Reliability Index scores are calculated on a 0–100 scale using a weighted formula that combines multiple public data sources. Each factor is weighted based on its predictive value for real-world ownership experience.
Key Ranking Factors
Complaint Severity
NHTSA owner complaints weighted by component category (e.g., powertrain, safety systems, electronics, cosmetic) — safety-critical issues carry more weight than cosmetic ones. Adjusted for sales volume so high-volume models aren't unfairly penalized.
Repair Costs
Independent reliability ratings based on repair frequency, average repair costs, and severity of typical repairs for each model.
Recall Impact
Number of NHTSA recalls weighted by severity. “Stop driving” and fire-risk recalls are penalized more heavily than minor software or labeling recalls.
Issue Diversity
Measures how many major vehicle systems (engine, transmission, electrical, braking, etc.) have recorded complaints. A vehicle with issues spread across many systems may indicate systemic quality issues.
Scores are grouped into four tiers:
- 80–100: Excellent— Top-tier reliability, minimal issues
- 60–79: Good— Reliable with some minor concerns
- 40–59: Mixed— Notable issues, research before buying
- 0–39: Risky— Significant problems, proceed with caution
Data is sourced from NHTSA recall records, owner complaint filings, and independent repair databases. Scores are recalculated as new data becomes available. While the weighting model is proprietary, all underlying data sources are public and traceable.
Get notified when new recalls or reliability data is added for the Hyundai Sonata.
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