Last updated: 2026-10-10

Hyundai Sonata

Hyundai Sonata Years to Avoid

9 scored model years (2018–2026) · model average 68/100

The Hyundai Sonata years to avoid are 2018, 2023 based on reliability scores, NHTSA recalls, and owner complaints. The worst year is 2018 with a reliability score of 61/100. The best Hyundai Sonata year to buy is 2024 73/100.

Verdict

The 2018, 2023 Hyundai Sonata score significantly below the model average of 68/100. The weakest year is 2018 with a score of 61/100 due to engine (116) issues. The best year to buy instead is 2024 73/100. Newer model years (2025–2026) score higher partly because they've had less time to accumulate owner complaints.

See years to avoid ↓See best year ↓See all years ranked ↓

Hyundai Sonata Years to Avoid

These model years score significantly below the Hyundai Sonata average of 68/100.

#YearScoreRatingRecallsComplaintsTop Issue
1201861/100Good3353Engine (116)
2202362/100Good287Fuel Propulsion System (18)

Why These Years Should Be Avoided

61
GoodReliability score: 61 out of 100, rated Good

2018 Hyundai Sonata

Weakest of the nine scored Sonata years, with heavy engine oil burning, three recalls and far more complaints than the 2019 model.

3 recalls353 complaintsEst. repair:

Top issues: Engine (116), Electrical System (52), Unknown Or Other (44), Power Train (30), Exterior Lighting (20), Engine And Engine Cooling (14)

View full 2018reliability report →
62
GoodReliability score: 62 out of 100, rated Good

2023 Hyundai Sonata

A facelift-year Sonata that ranks among the weaker years, with repeat fuel injector failures and shifter trouble standing out against better-rated 2022 and 2024 neighbors.

2 recalls87 complaintsEst. repair:

Top issues: Fuel Propulsion System (18), Engine (16), Power Train (15), Electrical System (7), Unknown Or Other (6), Fuel System, Gasoline (4)

View full 2023reliability report →

What Are Common Hyundai Sonata Problems?

ENGINE

239 complaints

Most reported in 2018, 2019, 2021

2018: Heavy oil burning with no visible leak is the dominant complaint, sometimes a quart every 750 to 1,000 miles or faster.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

161 complaints

Most reported in 2018, 2021, 2020

2018: Sudden power loss at highway speed is the main pattern.

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

125 complaints

Most reported in 2018, 2021, 2020

2018: These reports cover a mix of problems.

POWER TRAIN

125 complaints

Most reported in 2018, 2022, 2021

2018: Cars drop into limp mode with a flashing check engine light, shake, and will not accelerate.

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

55 complaints

Most reported in 2023, 2020, 2022

2023: A fuel injector sticks open or leaks.

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

40 complaints

Most reported in 2018, 2019, 2024

2018: Low-beam headlights light only a short distance ahead, often described as 15 to 20 feet or one to two car lengths.

Best Hyundai Sonata Year to Buy Instead

73
GoodReliability score: 73 out of 100, rated Good

2024 Hyundai Sonata

Good standing with fewer complaints and recalls than 2023, though the main concern is brief electrical cutouts while driving.

Score: 73/100 (Good)1 recalls41 complaints
View full 2024reliability report →
VIN History Report

Found a Safe Year? Check the Specific Car

Even the 2024 Hyundai Sonata has 1 recall on file. A VIN check confirms the recall work on the exact car and shows its accident, title, and service history.

No VIN? Just hit “Check VIN” to look one up.

  • Accidents
  • Open Recalls
  • Title History
  • Odometer Rollback

All Hyundai Sonata Years by Generation

Frequently Asked Questions

What Hyundai Sonata years should you avoid?
Based on our data, you should avoid the following Hyundai Sonata years: 2018 (score: 61/100), 2023 (score: 62/100). These model years score significantly below the Hyundai Sonata average of 68/100.
What is the best year for the Hyundai Sonata?
The best year for the Hyundai Sonata is 2024, with a reliability score of 73/100 ("Good"). It has 1 recalls and 41 owner complaints. Newer model years (2025–2026) score higher partly because they've had less time to accumulate owner complaints.
How many recalls does the Hyundai Sonata have?
Across all years in our database, the Hyundai Sonata has a total of 20 recalls. Recall counts vary by year — check individual model year reports for details.
Is a used Hyundai Sonata worth buying?
Yes, especially the 2024 model year, which scores 73/100. Stick to years at or above the model average of 68/100 for the best ownership experience.
What are common Hyundai Sonata problems?
The most common Hyundai Sonata problems are engine (239 complaints), electrical system (161 complaints), unknown or other (125 complaints). These issues are reported across multiple model years based on NHTSA owner complaint data.
Is the Hyundai Sonata reliable long-term?
The Hyundai Sonata has an average reliability score of 68/100 across all model years in our database, rated "good". Overall, it is a reliable vehicle, though some model years perform better than others.
Which Hyundai Sonata generation is most reliable?
The most reliable Hyundai Sonata generation is the Seventh generation (LF) with an average score of 65/100. Compare generations in our all-years-by-generation section above.
Is the 2024 Hyundai Sonata a good used buy?
Yes, the 2024 Hyundai Sonata is our top-recommended model year with a reliability score of 73/100 ("Good"). It has 1 recalls and 41 owner complaints, making it a solid used buy.

How we score every Hyundai Sonata model year

Scores weight complaint severity at 35%, repair costs at 30%, recall impact at 20%, and the spread of complaints across systems at 15%, with complaint counts adjusted for US sales. Read the full methodology.

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