Last updated: 2026-04-20

2023 Hyundai Sonata
RELIABILITY SCORE: 62/100 (GOOD)

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

Complaint Severity50/100

Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume

Repair Costs60/100

Independent repair cost ratings

Recall Impact71/100

Recall count weighted by severity

Issue Diversity84/100

Breadth of reported problem categories

The Verdict

Consider

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)

Refresh Year

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

Common Problem Categories

Safety

LOW RISK
  • 2 manufacturer recalls issued

Other

HIGH RISK
  • FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM (18)
  • ENGINE (16)

See detailed breakdown by component ↓

Recall Overview

2

recalls on record

Park Outside

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 sold

Segment avg: 14.6

LowAvgHigh
Moderate

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.

25V7960002025-11-18

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.

23V5260002023-07-27Park Outside

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.

VIN History Report

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.

Affiliate link — we may earn a commission at no cost to you. No VIN? Just hit “Check VIN” to look one up.

  • Accidents
  • Open Recalls
  • Title History
  • Odometer Rollback

2023 Hyundai Sonata NHTSA Safety Ratings

Overall Safety Rating

Overall safety rating: 5 out of 5
Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)

Gas Powertrain

Driver: 4/5Passenger: 5/5

Rollover risk: 9.7%

Safety Technologies

Dynamic Head Restraints (Not Available)Head Restraint (Driver, Front Passenger, 2nd row)Advanced Belt Feature (Not Available)Seat Belt Pretensioners (Driver, Front Passenger)Seat Belt Load Limiters (Driver, Front Passenger)Adjustable Upper Belt Anchorage (Driver, Front Passenger)Seat Belt Reminder System (Driver, Front Passenger)Frontal Air Bag (Driver, Front Passenger)Head Protection (Driver, Front Passenger, 2nd row)Torso and/or Pelvis Protection (Driver, Front Passenger, 2nd row)Knee (Driver)Additional Air Bags (None)Meets Side Air Bag Out-of-Position Requirements (Yes)LATCH Locations (2nd row)Safety Power Windows (Anti-Pinch) (Standard/Optional)Safety Power Windows (Anti-Pinch) locations (Driver/Front Passenger, Roof)

HEV Powertrain

Driver: 4/5Passenger: 5/5

Rollover risk: 9.7%

Safety Technologies

Dynamic Head Restraints (Not Available)Head Restraint (Driver, Front Passenger, 2nd row)Advanced Belt Feature (Not Available)Seat Belt Pretensioners (Driver, Front Passenger)Seat Belt Load Limiters (Driver, Front Passenger)Adjustable Upper Belt Anchorage (Driver, Front Passenger)Seat Belt Reminder System (Driver, Front Passenger)Frontal Air Bag (Driver, Front Passenger)Head Protection (Driver, Front Passenger, 2nd row)Torso and/or Pelvis Protection (Driver, Front Passenger, 2nd row)Knee (Driver)Additional Air Bags (None)Meets Side Air Bag Out-of-Position Requirements (Yes)LATCH Locations (2nd row)Safety Power Windows (Anti-Pinch) (Standard/Optional)Safety Power Windows (Anti-Pinch) locations (Driver/Front Passenger, Roof)
View full safety data on NHTSA.gov →

Hyundai SonataRepair Costs & Maintenance

Maintenance Rating

3Maintenance rating: 3 out of 5

Based 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%

after 5 years

Depreciation
44%

over the same period

Listings Analyzed
359

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.com

MPG & 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
TrimDriveTrans.CityHwyCombFuel Cost
Sonata 2.5L 4-cylFront-Wheel DriveAutomatic (S8)283832$1,850
Sonata 1.6L 4-cylFront-Wheel DriveAutomatic (S8)273731$1,950
Sonata 2.5L 4-cylFront-Wheel DriveAutomatic (S8)273731$1,950
Sonata 2.5L 4-cylFront-Wheel DriveAutomatic (AM-S8)233327$2,200
Hybrid trims
TrimDriveTrans.CityHwyCombFuel Cost
Sonata Hybrid Blue 2.0L 4-cylFront-Wheel DriveAutomatic (AM-S6)505452$1,150
Sonata Hybrid 2.0L 4-cylFront-Wheel DriveAutomatic (AM-S6)455147$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.

18
16
15
11
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM (18)ENGINE (16)POWER TRAIN (15)ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (8)UNKNOWN OR OTHER (6)FUEL SYSTEM (5)FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE (4)VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL (4)Other (11)

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

18 complaints

Owners 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.

18 complaints total

ENGINE

16 complaints

Owners 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.

16 complaints total

POWER TRAIN

15 complaintsSafety-related

Owners 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.

15 complaints total3 crashes
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (8 complaints)

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

8 complaints

Owners 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.

8 complaints total
FUEL SYSTEM (5 complaints)

FUEL SYSTEM

5 complaints

Owners 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.

5 complaints total
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE (4 complaints)

FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE

4 complaints

Owners 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.

4 complaints total
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL (4 complaints)

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

4 complaintsSafety-related

Owners 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.

4 complaints total2 crashes2 injuries
STEERING (2 complaints)

STEERING

2 complaints

Owners 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.

2 complaints total
SERVICE BRAKES (2 complaints)

SERVICE BRAKES

2 complaints

Owners 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.

2 complaints total
STRUCTURE (2 complaints)

STRUCTURE

2 complaints

Owners 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.

2 complaints total

When Do 2023 Hyundai Sonata Problems Start?

Based on owner complaint patterns, here's when common issues tend to appear.

13,000–14,000 milesCoolant system defects
5,000–30,000 milesFuel injector failures
500–10,000 milesPower train issues

Best & Worst Hyundai Sonata Years

Comprehensive reliability analysis based on NHTSA data, owner complaints, and historical performance.

Best Hyundai Sonata Years to Buy

The 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).

61
Good

2018

3Recalls
353Complaints
62
Good

2023

(Current Model)

2Recalls
87Complaints

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.

Hyundai Sonata reliability scores by year
YearScoreRating
201861/100Good
201971/100Good
202062/100Good
202164/100Good
202265/100Good
202362/100Good
202473/100Good
202576/100Good
202675/100Good

Hyundai Sonata Reliability Compared to Other Years

Reliability scores compared across model years
YearScorevs Prior YearRatingRecallsComplaints
202675/100-1Good20
202576/100+3Good016
202473/100+11Good141
2023(selected)62/100-3Good287
202265/100+1Good395
202164/100+2Good4151
202062/100-9Good5163
201971/100+10Good0144
201861/100Good3353

2023 Hyundai Sonata Reliability by Powertrain

The 2023 Hyundai Sonata is available with 2powertrain options. Here's how they compare on reliability.

Reliability comparison across powertrain options
PowertrainComplaintsRecallsIncidents*Crash Rating
Gas72235 out of 5
HEV15035 out of 5
Total8726

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?
The 2023 Hyundai Sonata has a "Good" reliability rating with a score of 62/100. It is reasonably reliable with 2 recalls and 87 owner complaints, though some issues have been reported.
What are the most common problems with the 2023 Hyundai Sonata?
The most commonly reported problems with the 2023 Hyundai Sonata include: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM (18 complaints), ENGINE (16 complaints), POWER TRAIN (15 complaints), ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (8 complaints), UNKNOWN OR OTHER (6 complaints). These issues were identified from owner complaints analyzed by Auto Reliability Index.
How many recalls does the 2023 Hyundai Sonata have?
The 2023 Hyundai Sonata has 2 recalls on record. Recalls are safety or compliance fixes issued by the manufacturer and repaired at no cost at authorized dealerships.
Is the 2023 Hyundai Sonata expensive to maintain?
The 2023 Hyundai Sonata should have average maintenance costs for its class. With a reliability score of 62/100, some repairs may be needed, but overall ownership costs are manageable.

Don’t buy a 2023 Hyundai Sonata without checking its VIN first — hidden accidents, title issues, and open recalls could cost you thousands.

Affiliate link — we may earn a commission at no cost to you.

Look Up a VIN →

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

1

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.

2

Repair Costs

Independent reliability ratings based on repair frequency, average repair costs, and severity of typical repairs for each model.

3

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.

4

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.

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