2011 Hyundai Sonata Report
Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.
Overall Score
Key Takeaways
- The steering system is the most significant concern, with numerous complaints and recalls related to erratic behavior and loss of assist.
- Engine issues, including stalling and potential failures, are the second most frequent complaint, warranting thorough inspection.
- While safety ratings are high (5-star overall), critical recalls for steering and engine components indicate potential safety risks if not properly addressed.
- Expect average fuel economy for its class, with a combined EPA rating of 26 MPG.
2011 Hyundai Sonata
Critical Failure Risk
Numerous complaints and recalls point to issues with the steering system, particularly the electric power assist system (EPAS). Failures can range from loss of assist to erratic steering behavior.
Early detection can help you avoid a $1,500-$5,000 repair.
Safety & Bulletins
Owner Complaints
Performance & Efficiency
Reliability
Practicality
Who This Car Is For
Best for
Budget-conscious buyers prioritizing initial purchase price over long-term reliability.
+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report
Avoid if
Buyers seeking a trouble-free ownership experience.
+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report
2011 Hyundai Sonata Reliability Analysis
Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2011 Hyundai Sonata.
Vehicle Specs
- Fuel Type
- Regular
- Seating Capacity
- 5
- Transmission
- Automatic 6-spd
- Drivetrain
- Front-Wheel Drive
- Body Style
- Sedan
- EPA Combined MPG
- 26
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Most Common Issues
1. Steering
Most reportedUsage: 1,158 reports
2. ENGINE
Usage: 950 reports
First Service Interval
- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection
Est. shop cost: $70 - $120
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FAQ
Is the 2011 Hyundai Sonata reliable?
The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2011 Hyundai Sonata is 1.5/10. Reliability score is 1.5/10. NHTSA recalls: 19. Owner complaints: 4,566.
How practical is the 2011 Hyundai Sonata for daily use?
Practicality score is 5.7/10. EPA combined economy is 26 MPG. Seating capacity is 5. 4 passenger doors are listed. Boot capacity is 464 litres.
What is the overall score for the 2011 Hyundai Sonata?
The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2011 Hyundai Sonata is 5.9/10. Overall score is 5.9/10 (Mixed). Confidence 82%. Maintenance 8.3/10. Practicality 5.7/10.
What does it cost to own and maintain a 2011 Hyundai Sonata?
Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $400 - $700. Repair prediction highlight: Steering System (typical at 75,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $800 • Max: $2,500).
What engine is in the 2011 Hyundai Sonata?
Engine specs list 4 • 2.4.
What transmission does the 2011 Hyundai Sonata use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2011 Hyundai Sonata, transmission is Automatic 6-spd. The paired drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive.
What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2011 Hyundai Sonata?
EPA combined estimate is 26 MPG.
What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2011 Hyundai Sonata?
1 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Tire Pressure Monitoring System.
How many people fit in a 2011 Hyundai Sonata?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2011 Hyundai Sonata, seating capacity is 5.
What body style is the 2011 Hyundai Sonata?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2011 Hyundai Sonata, body style is sedan.
What drivetrain does the 2011 Hyundai Sonata use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2011 Hyundai Sonata, drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic 6-spd.
What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2011 Hyundai Sonata?
NHTSA ratings: Overall 5/5 • Frontal 4/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 5/5.
What are the most common steering problems on the 2011 Hyundai Sonata?
Top complaint category: steering (1158 reports, 25.4% of complaints).
Are there open safety recalls on the 2011 Hyundai Sonata?
This model year has 19 official safety campaigns listed.
Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2011 Hyundai Sonata?
Alternatives listed in this guide: 2011 Toyota Camry and 2011 Honda Accord.