2002 Hyundai Sonata Standard review from North America

Occasional random shifting glitches. They feel like 'hiccups' when accelerating and the transmission seems to have a difficult time finding which gear to be in.

I have learned that you should only have Hyundai brake pads installed. I had a cheaper place do the job, and the standard pads they use squeel constantly. Not just in the beginning, but all the time. I had Hyundai swap them out for theirs (for the cost of the pads)

About now, at 70k, I notice the automatic locks are starting to have problems unlocking via the remote or the actual button on the door. I will need to bring it in for service for this issue shortly.

I have put a lot of miles on my car since I bought it over 2 years ago, and have put this car through a lot. With three kids and long commutes, this car has held up very well.

I have brought the car in for most scheduled service. All of the major ones (including replacing the timing belt at 60k) though I have not been good on changing the oil all the time. Once I went about 9k before changing. The car has no major issues.

My driving pattern, ranges from steady 70-85 MPH on highways, to bumper to bumper city traffic. Aside from the odd shifting issue stated above, the Sonata handles very well. The auto-stick shifter is fantastic. perfect for the 4 cylinder, as you can control and greatly improve upon its relative weakness on hills, and getting up to speed on highways. It is a lot of fun as well.

I have added a car starter, and new stereo, as well as the wood grain kit (that is normally on the LX and GLS models).

I am very happy with the fuel millage. I get between 25 and 27 Mpg with mixed driving patterns.

Being in New England, it handles OK in snow and rain. I don't feel as connected to the road as I have with my past vehicles, when it comes to heavy in-climate weather. Though that is more of my opinion, than hard facts.