Great car hands down
Brake rotors had to be turned due to a pulsing brake pedal.
I love this car. My brother has a C-Class 230 Benz and I find my car to be a better value at half the price and double the warranty.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 13th June, 2004
Classy, affordable, and stylish mid-size sedan
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.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Don't Know
Review Date: 24th April, 2004
One of the best cars on the road!
Absolutely nothing! I love it!
I bought this car in 2003 after my 1999 Malibu was totaled in a car crash. I bought this car 1-year used and since the day I bought it, I have loved it! It has been very reliable, comfortable, and has a well-powered engine. Also, it has adequate trunk space and I feel very safe in it with the side air bags! It has very tremendous features, including leather, ABS, V6-Engine, and Moon-roof.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 17th February, 2004
Awesome Car
Nothing Major has gone wrong.
The rear bumper peeled paint shortly after getting it. The bumper was completely repaired/repainted and a loaner car was provided.
This car has been awesome to drive and own. I would highly recommend this car to others looking to buy a affordable, comfortable car that has power.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 2nd November, 2003
It is worth of giving a try!
Drum brakes on the rear side made noise after 8,000 miles. Replaced free after long disputes with the dealership service department.
Water goes into the engine from the bottom, when driving in rainy days. When water goes into the engine, the engine makes noise.
Battery failure which was found during oil change and standard diagnostic exam. It was around 20,000 miles. Warranty covered the cost of replacement.
I regret of buying I4 rather than V6. The engine lacks of torque in first gear. Surprisingly, 2nd gear to 4th gear are relatively better.
Also, the engine is very quiet from inside. It is quiet while driving.
It is very smooth on city or highway.
The back seats are about same as Accord or Camry. There is not enough rooms for adults to fit in. Though, it is relatively comfortable and relaxing.
The handling is very smooth on city or highway. Though, when the car is idle, the handling is confining.
Premium sounds.
Hard to open the trunk or the hood. Though, it is very safe than other cars in that price range.
Very relaxing while driving.
Tops 80 miles/Hr. easily, and capable of going up to 100 or higher without trouble. After all, it has 2.4 L engine.
The transmission is some what rough, but it may only be noticed to sensitive people.
Brakes are not too sensitive like Japanese cars, but not too rough like American cars.
A/C works great. Heater works great as well.
Some dealerships charge differently, but the dealership that I go to charge around 33.00 dollars for oil change. It cost around 14.00 dollars to rotate tires. I'm not pleased when I have to pay close to 50.00 dollars when I go change the oil.
Before I bought the car, I set my priority on warranties; but now, I rather not. Though, for some people who wish to drive their cars more than 7 years or more should set their priority on warranties. As you know, the Hyundai cars do not have good used car price.
Overall, I give the car 8 from 1 to 10, 10 being the best. This car is cheaper than other competitors and it is roomier with acceptable power.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 7th October, 2003
25th Apr 2004, 12:26
I am currently driving a 1999 Sonata GLS with 168,900KM on it and am very happy. Only major maintenace was when I had the timing belt changed at 93,000KM along with the spark plugs. I am a former Camry driver, but could not I would not spend the extreme difference in cost. Car rides well.
Brian.