While some drivers let the price of a new car like the Hyundai Sonata be the primary factor influencing their buying decision, there are many other elements to consider when purchasing a vehicle. On top of the general specs you expect to look at (MPG, tech and safety features, engine size, etc.), reliability is a crucial factor to look at.
If you’re impressed by the Hyundai Sonata’s stylish look, turbocharged engine, and a plethora of awesome features, you might be wondering, “Is the Sonata reliable?” Here are some things to consider:
Determining Reliability
When someone asks if a car is reliable, it may not be clear what information they actually want. Does being reliable mean it starts every morning regardless of the weather? Does being reliable mean hitting a certain mileage on the odometer? Is it just a term that has no real meaning?
Reliability isn’t as easy to quantify as other specs on a vehicle, although several rating methods are out there. Reliability takes into account everything from the average longevity of a car to expected maintenance needs/costs and more.
Of course, some manufacturers are just known for building reliable vehicles. Luckily for the Sonata, Hyundai has a strong reputation for dependable and durable automobiles.
How Does the Sonata Score?
While it’s difficult to put an exact number on a vehicle’s reliability, Consumer Reports measures and compares vehicles in this area. This trusted organization looks at data surrounding problems and issues drivers have with a particular vehicle compared to other vehicles. This score is even used to create a predicted reliability rating.
Data is gathered through automotive surveys that ask drivers questions about their cars. In 2020, Consumer Reports received responses regarding 329,000 vehicles covering models released from 2000 to 2020.
An average car typically scores around 57 on this reliability test. The Hyundai Sonata is considered very reliable, with a score of 63.15.
Future Maintenance
No one wants to drive a car that needs constant stops at the mechanic. At the same time, every vehicle should undergo regular, routine maintenance. Things like oil changes, tire rotations, and general tune-ups are a necessary part of keeping your car on the road.
On average, most vehicles cost around $651 per year on maintenance and repairs. The Hyundai Sonata has an average cost of $458 per year. That shows you that this sedan should have fewer overall issues and requires less work to keep it running.
It’s also worth looking at how often a car needs a significant repair. This kind of work is often considered repairing or replacing a component with pricing over $1,000. A frequency score says how many times in the course of three years a vehicle requires significant work. The average car has a frequency score of 1.3. The Hyundai Sonata has an average score of 0.81.
Yes. The Hyundai Sonata is a Reliable Car
While the Sonata may not have scores that blow the average marks out of the water, it consistently proves to be more reliable than average. In fact, it’s not uncommon to see a Sonata put over 250,000 miles on its powertrain. Some drivers have even broken the 300,000 mark.
If you’re looking for a family sedan, a road-trip machine, or something in-between, the Hyundai Sonata is sure to treat you well.
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