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2023 Hyundai Sonata Report

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

Updated May 30, 2026·Daniel Wilson·2 Critical Recalls
2023 Hyundai Sonata Report

Overall Score

7.6/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • Significant engine and fuel system issues are the primary reliability concern for used 2023 Sonata models.
  • A high volume of complaints points to potential early-life failures, particularly in the powertrain.
  • The vehicle achieved a strong overall NHTSA safety rating of 5 stars, indicating good crash protection.
  • Fuel economy is a strong point, with a combined EPA rating of 27 MPG.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2023 Hyundai Sonata

The 2023 Hyundai Sonata offers a compelling blend of style and efficiency, but used car shoppers should approach with caution. While it boasts excellent NHTSA safety ratings, with an overall score of 5 stars, its reliability record is a significant concern. The vehicle has accumulated 104 complaints and 5 recalls, with a notable emphasis on engine and fuel system issues. These problems can manifest as sudden power loss or stalling, impacting drivability and potentially leading to costly repairs. Despite these drawbacks, its 27 MPG combined fuel economy remains attractive for budget-conscious buyers.

Critical Failure Risk

A significant number of complaints relate to the fuel/propulsion system, including injector issues and potential problems with fuel tank integrity. These can lead to reduced engine performance or stalling.

Early detection can help you avoid a $1,500-$5,000 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls5
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

104
Fuel/Propulsion System31
Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Horsepower
191–290HP
Torque
181–311 lb–ftLB-FT
Fuel Efficiency
Combined
27
MPG
City
23
MPG
Highway
33
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

6.9/ 10

Practicality

5.7/ 10
Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Buyers prioritizing fuel efficiency and modern styling over long-term mechanical dependability.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Buyers seeking a trouble-free ownership experience with minimal risk of unexpected repair bills.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2023 Hyundai Sonata Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2023 Hyundai Sonata.

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

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Regular
Seating Capacity
5
Horsepower
191-290 hp
Torque
181-311 lb-ft
Transmission
Automatic
Drivetrain
Front-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Sedan
EPA Combined MPG
27

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Most Common Issues

1. Fuel System

Most reported

Usage: 31 reports

2. ENGINE

Usage: 21 reports

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter (Hyundai 26300-35056 or equivalent)) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brakes - Inspect Wiper Blades

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
5 recall campaign details & remedy notes
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2023 Hyundai Sonata reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2023 Hyundai Sonata is 6.9/10. Reliability score is 6.9/10. NHTSA recalls: 5. Owner complaints: 104.

How practical is the 2023 Hyundai Sonata for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 5.7/10. EPA combined economy is 27 MPG. Seating capacity is 5. 4 passenger doors are listed. Boot capacity is 453 litres.

What is the overall score for the 2023 Hyundai Sonata?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2023 Hyundai Sonata is 7.6/10. Overall score is 7.6/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.6/10. Practicality 5.7/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2023 Hyundai Sonata?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter (Hyundai 26300-35056 or equivalent)) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brakes - Inspect Wiper Blades at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $400 - $600. Repair prediction highlight: Fuel Injector (typical at 75,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $600 • Max: $1,500).

What engine is in the 2023 Hyundai Sonata?▾

Engine specs list Inline-4 • 4 • 2.5. Output is 191-290 hp • 181-311 lb-ft.

What transmission does the 2023 Hyundai Sonata use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2023 Hyundai Sonata, transmission is Automatic. The paired drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2023 Hyundai Sonata?▾

EPA combined estimate is 27 MPG.

What kind of powertrain does the 2023 Hyundai Sonata use?▾

Powertrain classification is Hybrid (HEV).

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2023 Hyundai Sonata?▾

16 standard and 1 optional driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.

What is the fuel economy range for the 2023 Hyundai Sonata?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2023 Hyundai Sonata, fuel economy range is 27-32 mpg combined.

How many people fit in a 2023 Hyundai Sonata?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2023 Hyundai Sonata, seating capacity is 5.

What body style is the 2023 Hyundai Sonata?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2023 Hyundai Sonata, body style is sedan.

What drivetrain does the 2023 Hyundai Sonata use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2023 Hyundai Sonata, drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic.

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2023 Hyundai Sonata?▾

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

What are the most common fuel/propulsion system problems on the 2023 Hyundai Sonata?▾

Top complaint category: fuel/propulsion system (31 reports, 29.8% of complaints).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2023 Hyundai Sonata?▾

This model year has 5 official safety campaigns listed.

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2023 Hyundai Sonata?▾

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2023 Toyota Camry and 2023 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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