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Hyundai Sonata: which year should you buy?

Across the 2011 to 2026 model years, the public record is strongest on the 2024 (85/100). Every year below is scored on its own NHTSA complaint and recall history. Pick the year, not just the nameplate.

Best years to target

2024 85 · 2022 76 · 2021 74 · 2020 74

Years to approach with caution

2011 33 · 2013 38

Every model year, scored

Same math for every year (how we score). A neutral Unproven or Too New stamp means too few owner reports are on file to affirm the year, not that it’s clean.

202696/100
Too New

2 complaints · 1 recalls

202485/100
Buybest year

41 complaints · 1 recalls

202364/100
Caution

83 complaints · 2 recalls · ⚠ park-it recall

202276/100
Buy

88 complaints · 3 recalls

202174/100
Buy

119 complaints · 4 recalls

202074/100
Buy

165 complaints · 4 recalls

201868/100
Buy

364 complaints · 1 recalls

201761/100
Caution

758 complaints · 3 recalls

201655/100
Caution

715 complaints · 6 recalls

201542/100
Caution

1,123 complaints · 9 recalls · ⚠ park-it recall

201454/100
Caution

741 complaints · 7 recalls

201338/100
Avoid

1,892 complaints · 9 recalls

201245/100
Caution

1,551 complaints · 8 recalls

201133/100
Avoid

3,368 complaints · 14 recalls

Zeroing in on the 2024?

The full year-by-year verdict is free. When you’re ready to inspect and negotiate one specific car, the Full Report turns the 2024 Hyundai Sonata’s complaint breakdown and recall list into an inspection-ready, shareable PDF.

Recalls, complaint breakdown & inspection checklist, all in a shareable PDF

Cross-shopping a different nameplate? Compare the 2026 Hyundai Sonata head-to-head →

The fine print: each year’s verdict is computed from public NHTSA complaint and recall records for the Hyundai Sonata as a model, not for any individual car. A well-kept example of a weaker year can outlast a neglected strong one. Informational only, so always get a professional pre-purchase inspection.