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2017 Hyundai Sonata Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated May 30, 2026·Ryan Davis·1 Critical Recall
2017 Hyundai Sonata Report

Overall Score

6.8/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • Significant engine issues, including stalling and power loss, are a primary concern, reported by over 37% of owners.
  • The steering system is another weak point, with frequent reports of power steering failure and lock-up, even at low mileage.
  • A high complaint volume across multiple systems suggests potential systemic quality control issues.
  • Excellent NHTSA safety ratings (5-star overall, frontal, and side crash) provide some reassurance.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2017 Hyundai Sonata

The 2017 Hyundai Sonata offers a comfortable ride and respectable fuel economy, but its appeal to used car shoppers is tempered by notable reliability concerns. While it boasts a strong overall safety rating, the prevalence of engine and steering issues, including reports of power steering failure and stalling, demands careful consideration. With four recalls issued, including one for the driver's frontal airbag, and a high volume of owner complaints, vigilance is key when evaluating this model.

Critical Failure Risk

Owners report engine stalling and sudden power loss, sometimes at very low mileage. This is a significant safety concern that can occur without warning.

Early detection can help you avoid a $500-$2,500 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls4
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

930
Engine348
Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
26
MPG
City
22
MPG
Highway
31
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

4.6/ 10

Practicality

5.4/ 10
Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Budget-conscious buyers prioritizing upfront cost 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

2017 Hyundai Sonata Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2017 Hyundai Sonata.

  • Recall TimelineOfficial safety notices
  • Owner ComplaintsReal driver reports
  • Failure AnalysisKnown part defects
Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Regular
Seating Capacity
5
Transmission
Automatic (S6)
Drivetrain
Front-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Sedan
EPA Combined MPG
26

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Most Common Issues

1. ENGINE

Most reported

Usage: 348 reports

2. Steering

Usage: 168 reports

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brakes - Inspect Steering System

Est. shop cost: $100 - $200

7,500 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist
Complete maintenance schedule (5 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
4 recall campaign details & remedy notes
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2017 Hyundai Sonata reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2017 Hyundai Sonata is 4.6/10. Reliability score is 4.6/10. NHTSA recalls: 4. Owner complaints: 930.

How practical is the 2017 Hyundai Sonata for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 5.4/10. EPA combined economy is 26 MPG. Seating capacity is 5. 4 passenger doors are listed.

What is the overall score for the 2017 Hyundai Sonata?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2017 Hyundai Sonata is 6.8/10. Overall score is 6.8/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.3/10. Practicality 5.4/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2017 Hyundai Sonata?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brakes - Inspect Steering System at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $400 - $800. Repair prediction highlight: Power Steering System (typical at 50,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $800 • Max: $1,500).

What is the MSRP range for the 2017 Hyundai Sonata?▾

Base MSRP is $38,600.

What engine is in the 2017 Hyundai Sonata?▾

Engine specs list 4 • 2.0.

What transmission does the 2017 Hyundai Sonata use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Hyundai Sonata, transmission is Automatic (S6). The paired drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2017 Hyundai Sonata?▾

EPA combined estimate is 26 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2017 Hyundai Sonata?▾

12 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.

How many people fit in a 2017 Hyundai Sonata?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Hyundai Sonata, seating capacity is 5.

What body style is the 2017 Hyundai Sonata?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Hyundai Sonata, body style is sedan.

What drivetrain does the 2017 Hyundai Sonata use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Hyundai Sonata, drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (S6).

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2017 Hyundai Sonata?▾

NHTSA ratings: Overall 5/5 • Frontal 5/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.

What are the most common engine problems on the 2017 Hyundai Sonata?▾

Top complaint category: engine (348 reports, 37.4% of complaints).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2017 Hyundai Sonata?▾

This model year has 4 official safety campaigns listed.

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2017 Hyundai Sonata?▾

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2017 Toyota Camry and 2017 Honda Accord.

Start Here

Maintenance guide

Costs + intervals

Recall report

Campaigns + remedy notes

Owner complaints

Issue volume + categories

In this guide

  1. 01Overview
  2. 02Who This Car Is For
  3. 03Reliability & Problems
  4. 04Vehicle Specs
  5. 05Unlock Full Report
  6. 06FAQ

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