What reliability score does the Hyundai Sonata get?

3.8 out of 10, scored from the 8 faults we document for this model and how severe each one is.

Is the 2015–2019 Hyundai Sonata reliable?

Scored from 8 documented faults · reviewed by the VehicleFaults Research Team

Quick answer

3.8/ 10

Buy with caution

On our documented-fault scoring the Hyundai Sonata rates 3.8 out of 10 · buy with caution. We hold 8 known faults for it and 1 of them are rated critical and 2 high, so a bad example can be expensive. The weak points cluster around engine, electrical and steering. A well-serviced example with evidence for the big-ticket items is usually a safe buy; the score describes the model, not the specific car in front of you.

Verdict · Walk unless the history is spotless

What the score is built from

Critical: 1
High: 2
Medium: 3
Low: 2

Weak points cluster around engine, electrical, steering, hvac.

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The faults that decide it

EngineCritical

Theta II 2.0T/2.4L engine failure (bearing/knock) — subject to recalls and warranty extensions.

Typically appears: 60,000+ miles
What to inspect: Listen for a knock, check for the knock-sensor recall completion, and confirm any engine replacement.
Typical repair: Electrical diagnosis & module repair · £120–£900

EngineHigh

Excessive oil consumption.

Typically appears: 70,000+ miles
What to inspect: Check oil level and top-up history.
Typical repair: Oil leak trace & seal / gasket · £180–£700

BodyworkHigh

Panoramic sunroof struggles to open, grinds, or gets stuck in the tilted position.

Typically appears: 5 years or 60,000 miles
What to inspect: Operate the sunroof switch to fully open and close the glass panel. Watch for uneven movement, hesitation, or loud grinding noises from the roof tracks, which points to imminent motor or cable failure.
Typical repair: Body & corrosion repair · £250–£1,800

SteeringMedium

Electric power steering faults.

Typically appears: 80,000+ miles
What to inspect: Confirm steering is consistent with no warning lights.
Typical repair: Steering rack / column repair · £400–£1,500

GearboxMedium

Vehicle refuses to crank, harsh gear engagement, or blank dashboard gear indicator.

Typically appears: 60,000-100,000 miles
What to inspect: Cycle the automatic gear selector through P, R, N, and D several times. Verify the dashboard indicator instantly matches the physical selector position and check for delayed or violent engagement caused by a failing inhibitor switch.
Typical repair: Routine repair · £180–£700

Costs are indicative UK independent-garage bands for budgeting and negotiation · never a quote.

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What the score is built from

The faults that decide it

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