Faults:

Windshield washer fluid pump burnt out at 130000km.

Vapour release valve in the gas tank filler tube malfunctions occasionally, forcing me to pump gas into the tank very slowly.

Rear passenger side power window occasionally fails to operate.

General Comments:

With the 2.5 V6 engine, the Sonata is an excellent performer. Acceleration is almost neck-breaking, helped along by a surprisingly high red-line. As well, the auto transmission allows the engine to reach max speed before shifting while under heavy acceleration.

Braking ability is uninspiring, but sufficient.

Noise is well taken care of. Except under heavy acceleration, engine noise is almost nil, and road and environment noise is quieter than one would expect.

Visibility is excellent, due to the large windscreen, and long side windows in both front and back.

Fuel economy is decent, at about 32 mpg.

The entire interior is comfortable, in any seat. Long distance driving is rather enjoyable.

Cargo capacity is outstanding, due to a huge trunk that seems to go forever, as well as the 60/40 split rear foldable seats. With the seats folded down, one easily has enough room for almost anything.

It is exceptionally reliable, costing just $45 dollars for unexpected repairs in almost 2 years of ownership. Combined with the low price ($5000 in 2003), this Sonata has been an ideal car for the whole family.

Faults:

My car kept stalling at intersections, and almost causing me and my son to be in an accident. I took the car to the dealership, and they said it was a sensor and replaced it. Months later the car is stalling again. I took the car back to the dealership and now their telling me it needs a new electrical harness which is 1200.00 not including the 800.00 for labor. I thought I would check online to see if there is a recall on the harness, and there IS. So, I'm writing this to everyone who owns a Hyundia in which your car is stalling to have it checked out, and to file a complaint with the DOT 1-888-dash2dot.

General Comments:

My Sonata is stalling almost getting me killed by being t-boned, and rear ended in a intersection in Las Vegas.

Faults:

The "check engine" light came on at about 41,000 miles; replacement of spark plugs fixed this problem.

The "check engine" light came on intermittently at 51,000; oxygen sensors need to be replaced.

The body seems to dent easily.

General Comments:

The 1999 Hyundai Sonata GLS has proved to be a decent, reliable vehicle. Most of the money I have spent on this car is related to normal maintenance. My Hyundai has spent far less time in the shop than my previous car, the more expensive Acura Integra. I have to park my vehicle on the street outside my house; consequently, I have a lot of dings and scratches, and the body looks worn. Even so, I have found this car to be a dependable means of transportation, and would certainly consider buying another one.

Faults:

The brake fluid was leaking, but the dealer later fixed it.

The airbag light came on a couple of times so the car had to be taken to the dealership. After a whole day at the dealership it still wasn't fixed, but later it fixed by itself. The second time the light came on, the dealer fixed it.

Sometimes it won't start in the morning when it's cold.

The check engine light came on, but was fixed. The spark plugs had to be changed. One time when the light was on the engine was shaking and vibrating, but it was fixed.

The battery had to be replaced.

The tires wear very quickly.

The bulb in the right headlight blew out twice.

General Comments:

Good horsepower.

A lot of safety features, front driver & passenger airbags and side airbags for both the driver and passenger.

Good warranty.