Sonata (DN8)
Engine Reliability Comparison
DOHC GDI THETA-II
2.4LView details
Complaint Breakdown
Known Issues
GDI, Nu PE
2.0LView details
Complaint Breakdown
Known Issues
GDI NU PE + HEV
2.0LView details
Complaint Breakdown
Known Issues
T-GDI THETA III
2.5L TurboView details
Complaint Breakdown
Known Issues
GDI THETA III
2.5LView details
Complaint Breakdown
Known Issues
T-GDI GAMMA II
1.6L TurboView details
Complaint Breakdown
Known Issues
Vehicle-Level Issues
These issues affect the Hyundai Sonata regardless of engine variant.
Recalls (9)
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.
Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2024 Hyundai Sonata vehicles. The software for the brake lights may cause the brake lights to flash and not illuminate properly. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
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.
Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2020 Sonata and Sonata Hybrid, and 2019 Genesis G70 vehicles. The trunk latch may become damaged, preventing the opening of the trunk from the inside. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 401, "Internal Trunk Release."
Hyundai Motor Company (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Santa Fe, Sonata, Veloster N, 2022 Santa Cruz, Elantra N, and Kona N vehicles. The vehicle's "fail-safe" limited-mobility drive mode may be impaired, when prompted by a transmission oil pump malfunction, which can result in a complete loss of drive power.
Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Santa Fe, 2021 Sonata, and Elantra vehicles. During manufacturing, the windshield may not have been properly bonded to the vehicle, allowing it to detach in a crash.
Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Santa Fe and Sonata vehicles equipped with 2.5L turbocharged engines. Fuel may leak at the pipe connection between the high-pressure fuel pump and fuel rail.
Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2020 Sonata vehicles produced between October 22, 2019 and February 13, 2020. The tire pressure label inside the driver's door and the owner's manual state an incorrect tire size. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 110, "Tire Selection and Rims."
Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2020 Nexo and Sonata vehicles. The Remote Smart Parking Assist (RSPA) software may fail to prevent vehicle movement upon detection of an RSPA system malfunction.
All Generations
Alternatives in Midsize Sedan
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common 2020-2024 Hyundai Sonata problems?
The 2020-2024 Hyundai Sonata has accumulated 562 NHTSA complaints. The most frequently reported problem areas are Fuel System, Engine, Electrical System. As with any used vehicle, a pre-purchase inspection and vehicle history report are recommended.
Which Hyundai Sonata engine is most reliable?
The 2020-2024 Hyundai Sonata was offered with 6 engine options. Based on NHTSA complaint data, the 1.6L ?-cyl has the lowest complaint density and is considered the most reliable choice for buyers.
Is the 2020-2024 Hyundai Sonata a good used car?
The 2020-2024 Hyundai Sonata can be a solid used car purchase depending on trim, mileage, and maintenance history. With 562 total NHTSA complaints on record, prospective buyers should review the known problem areas and check for open recalls before buying.
How many NHTSA complaints does the 2020-2024 Hyundai Sonata have?
The 2020-2024 Hyundai Sonata has 562 complaints filed with NHTSA as of our latest data pull. Complaint counts reflect owner-reported issues and do not necessarily indicate defects or safety risks on their own.
What recalls affect the 2020-2024 Hyundai Sonata?
There are 9 NHTSA recalls affecting some 2020-2024 Hyundai Sonata vehicles. Recall status varies by VIN — check the NHTSA recall database at recalls.nhtsa.dot.gov with your specific VIN to confirm which campaigns apply.
What should I check before buying a used Hyundai Sonata?
Before buying a used Hyundai Sonata, verify all open recalls are completed via the NHTSA VIN lookup tool. Pay particular attention to Fuel System, Engine, Electrical System, which are the most commonly reported problem areas. Request maintenance records, have an independent mechanic inspect the vehicle, and run a vehicle history report to check for prior accidents or title issues.
Data from NHTSA federal complaints database. 562 complaints analyzed. Data confidence: high. Last updated: 2026-04-06.