Above Average Reliability

2020 Hyundai Sonata Pre-Purchase Inspection Checklist

8th Gen Generation · 2.5L 4-cylinder (191hp) / 1.6L Turbo (180hp) / 2.5L Turbo (290hp) · $16,000 - $27,000

Known Issues — 2020 Hyundai Sonata

MINOR

Theta II engine bearing failure on 2015-2019 models — critical recall (check VIN)

MINOR

Engine fire risk related to ABS module on some model years — check recalls

MINOR

2.0L turbo oil consumption on 7th gen models

MINOR

Panoramic sunroof stress fracture (exploding sunroof reports on 7th gen)

MINOR

Bluetooth/infotainment software bugs — intermittent disconnects

MINOR

Steering column rattle on high-mileage examples

What to Inspect

  • Run VIN through NHTSA — multiple recall campaigns on 2015-2019 models
  • Check engine oil level and look for consumption signs (dipstick)
  • Inspect panoramic sunroof for cracks or stress marks around glass edges
  • Test all power features: seats, mirrors, sunroof mechanism
  • Listen for engine knock especially at startup and under load
  • Test adaptive cruise control and lane keeping if equipped

Expected Maintenance Costs

ServiceIntervalCost
Oil change (synthetic)every 5,000 miles$50-$85
Transmission service (automatic)every 60,000 miles$120-$200
Spark plugs (iridium)every 60,000 miles$80-$150
Brake pads frontevery 40,000-60,000 miles$130-$220
Air filterevery 15,000-30,000 miles$20-$40
Coolant flushevery 60,000 miles$80-$130

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