The Good
The 2013 Sonata offers a compelling blend of advantages. Practically, it boasts good fuel efficiency and strong value for money. Emotionally, the stylish design and comfortable interior appeal to buyers. Performance is adequate for daily driving, and while reliability has some concerns, it remains decent for its class. It's a well-rounded sedan.
The Bad
Key weaknesses of the 2013 Sonata include potential engine problems, particularly with the 2.4L engine (oil consumption, engine failure). Some owners have reported issues with the steering and suspension. Check for recalls and service history relating to these known problems. Transmission issues have also been reported, though less frequently. Interior materials can feel cheap in some areas.
2013 Hyundai Sonata: Quick Overview
Key Specifications for the 2013 Hyundai Sonata:
- Engine Options:
- 2.4L Inline-4 (GLS, SE, Limited): Produces around 190 horsepower.
- 2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4 (SE, Limited): Produces around 274 horsepower.
- 2.4L Hybrid (Hybrid, Limited Hybrid): Combines a 2.4L engine with an electric motor.
- Horsepower:
- 2.4L: 190 hp
- 2.0T: 274 hp
- Hybrid: 190 hp combined
- Fuel Economy (EPA Estimated):
- 2.4L: 24 mpg city / 35 mpg highway
- 2.0T: 22 mpg city / 34 mpg highway
- Hybrid: 36 mpg city / 40 mpg highway
- 0-60 Times:
- 2.4L: Around 8.2 seconds
- 2.0T: Around 6.7 seconds
- Towing Capacity: Not recommended or officially rated.
- Trim-Level Features:
- GLS: Standard features include air conditioning, full power accessories, a CD player, satellite radio, and keyless entry.
- SE: Adds sport-tuned suspension, alloy wheels, a rear spoiler, leather-wrapped steering wheel, and shift paddles (with automatic transmission).
- Limited: Includes leather upholstery, heated front and rear seats, a sunroof, dual-zone automatic climate control, and an upgraded audio system.
- Hybrid: Similar features to the GLS or Limited, depending on the sub-trim, with hybrid-specific displays and features.
2013 Hyundai Sonata Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2013 |
| Make | Hyundai |
| Model | Sonata |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Sedan |
| Category | Large Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | Korea |
| Manufacturing City | - |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | 3578 pounds |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | 57.7 inches |
| Overall Length | 189.8 inches |
| Overall Width | 72.2 inches |
| Wheelbase Length | 110 inches |
| Standard Seating | 5 |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | Gas/Electric I4, 2.4-L |
| Engine Size | 2.4L |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 |
| Transmission | 6-Speed Automatic |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Transmission Speeds | 6-Speed |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | 4-Wheel |
| Steering Type | Power Rack & Pinion |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | $25,650 |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
Vehicle History Report
Specifications
History
Events
History Check
Check
Check
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Listings
Recalls
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Analysis
What Problems Does the 2013 Hyundai Sonata Have?
Other reported problems include issues with the car's steering system, sometimes described as feeling loose or unresponsive. Some owners have also experienced suspension problems, leading to uncomfortable rides or unusual noises. Transmission issues, such as rough shifting or slipping, have also been noted, though less frequently than engine problems.
Several recalls have been issued for the 2013 Sonata, addressing issues like brake light switch malfunctions (affecting cruise control and starting), potential fuel leaks, and airbag control unit problems. Potential buyers should check the vehicle's VIN with the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) to ensure all applicable recalls have been addressed. Long-term, the engine issues pose the most significant reliability concern, potentially leading to costly repairs or replacement.
How long will the 2013 Hyundai Sonata last?
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Driver-assistance features are relatively limited compared to modern vehicles. The Sonata offers standard features like antilock brakes, traction control, and stability control. Higher trims might include features like blind-spot monitoring.
Safety features include front, side, and curtain airbags.
Crash-test ratings from the IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) were generally good, with the 2013 Sonata earning a "Top Safety Pick" award. The NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) also gave it a 5-star overall safety rating.
The Hybrid model features hybrid-specific displays showing energy flow and battery status.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Interior Colors
2013 Hyundai Sonata Prices and Market Value
2013 Hyundai Sonata Cost of Ownership
2013 Hyundai Sonata Fuel Efficiency
2013 Hyundai Sonata Safety Rating
NHTSA
2013 Hyundai Sonata Warranty
Basic
Corrosion
Drivetrain
Roadside Assistance
2013 Hyundai Sonata Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2013 Hyundai Sonata Compare to Other Sedan?
Performance-wise, the Sonata's 2.0T engine is competitive, but the base 2.4L engine is less refined than the base engines in the Camry or Accord. Feature-wise, the Sonata is generally well-equipped for its price point.
Alternatives to the 2013 Sonata worth considering include the Toyota Camry (for superior reliability), the Honda Accord (for a balance of reliability and features), and the Mazda 6 (for a more engaging driving experience). If reliability is a top priority, the Camry or Accord are better choices, even if they might be slightly more expensive upfront. If budget is a primary concern, the Sonata can be a decent option, but thorough inspection and maintenance records are crucial.
Ranks #1087 Sedan
| 1 | 2023 Toyota Camry | (5.0β ) |
| 2 | 2023 Honda Accord | (0.0β ) |
| 3 | 2023 Lexus ES | (0.0β ) |
| 4 | 2024 Subaru Legacy | (5.0β ) |
| 5 | 2022 Mazda MX-30 | (4.0β ) |
| 6 | 2024 BMW M3 | (0.0β ) |
| 7 | 2023 Ford Mustang | (5.0β ) |
| 8 | 2023 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT | (0.0β ) |
| 9 | 2023 Audi A3 | (0.0β ) |
| 10 | 2023 Chevrolet Camaro | (5.0β ) |
| 11 | 2023 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid | (0.0β ) |
| 12 | 2023 Nissan Altima | (4.0β ) |
| 1087 | 2013 Hyundai Sonata | (5.0β ) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2013 Hyundai Sonata a Good Sedan?
Mike Olsen on December 28, 2024
One of the nieces car you can get for money.One of the nieces car you can get for money. Great car and very safe new cylinder ignition lock replace on all these cars so can't be stolen any more.
Mattie on March 7, 2024
Easily Stolen, DO NOT BUY!This car is easily stolen and not worth the risk that this manufacturing issue brings. Available anti-theft software stops theft but not break-ins. There is a 200 million dollar class action lawsuit due to theft issues.
Evan on September 30, 2023
decent carThe car ran great for around 170k miles, then the engine had some issues, but got those sorted and its good. Comfortable, fast and looks good.
Acemims on July 12, 2023
Car not worth it to many problemsI bought this car already 90,000 miles two months in my alternator gave in had at least 10 deffrent recalls in 4years for this vehicle transmission went bad spent a lot of money not worth it
Ann lindmood on May 26, 2023
Cracked dashboardThere is cracks all on my dashboard. No one, No one wants to help. I will not bye this car ever. They said it was do to heat . How can that be when it is garbage keep!!
Female on October 16, 2022
2013 Sonata SE Turbo2013 Sonata SE, Turbo loaded. I've enjoyed driving this car for the past 9, almost 10 years, and plan on driving it for many more years. The only minor complaints is the road noise is a little loud, and the back seat is a bit rough to ride in I hear. I think it's a great car, and the third Sonata we've owned. I've had no problems with it.
C. Thorny on October 5, 2022
Please read my review and look up that LawsuitThis car is not reliable and has been a headache. I purchased it for the design, appeal, accessories and all those are nice and it runs great WHEN IT IS RUNNING. I have had to dealt with the light issues mentioned by others. The rearlights and brake lights go out all the time. I have gotten tickets for this. The headlights go off as well but not as much. This is all small fry compared to the engine seizing, stalling or catching fire per the recall. Worse of all the Hyundai Motors America nor Hyundai dealers want to deal with replacing the engine. I have had to go through so many hoops and perform so many tricks for the dealers to honor the Hyundai engine replacement. I am currently going through the process. My car has been at the dealer for weeks now. This car has given me so much grief. It was fun to drive and be in but that IS NOTHING compared to having to replace the engine at about 70k. And it is due to manufacturing errors but they want to blame on owner negligence. Look up Hyunda Theta II engine lawsuit before purchasing any Sonata years 2011 - 2019. They should place this here on this vehicle review of they are really serving their customers and consumers on this site instead of covering it up.
Donald Brooks on September 17, 2022
LemonHave had nothing but trouble with this car for years! Started right after I bought it and has never stopped! I would never recommend this nake to anyone!
Betsy on August 25, 2022
I like it!This is a great car overall. I first had a Santa Fe, then the Sonata now and our daughter & her husband traded in her little convertible for a Palisade after her second child. Each was affordable, dependable and fun! I was disappointed with the Sonata in regards to the dashboard which now has cracks all over. Yes, Florida is hot but during the last 30 years of living here, we have never had even one crack on the dashboard of any of our cars. And recently we had difficulty shifting from park to reverse or drive, which might be a recall item. But otherwise, the car still looks good and has been very comfortable & dependable.
Lowkie on August 22, 2022
Worse car and purchase ever. Not safeWorse car ever. The car dies not charge android phones only IPhones. MY lights jeep going out. I replace my brake and rear lights and headlights about every 2 to 3 months. I have been given tockets because my brake and tail lights were out when I had just replaced them. It is very unsafe yo drive at knight with your lights out. I have lost count of how many times I have replaced all lights. I keep a case of lights in my trunk for the JIC. And I have replaced the harness 3 times for the rear. My lights for inside does not work when uou open your doors and the fog lights don't work. Replaced those twice. When you search about lights going out there are hundreds of posts of others having the same problem.My paint is peeling in large patches not a chip or scratch. Leaking oil. It is a known thing because of the type of paint they use. Supposed to be non peeling. The lies. Sputtering while stopped at a light then shuts off then the traction light cones on. I hate this car. The dealership or customer service won't help. It has about 10 recalls on it. I fear for my life every time I get in my car based on the majority oth the recalls having to do with the fuel system and watching videos of people cars catching on fire Γ°à ¸Òβ¬ΒΓΒ₯ while driving or while parked. When I purchased the car I was told it was
Drew B
Drew is a seasoned automotive expert and contributor to VinCheck.info. With nearly 15 years of experience as a former Porsche technician, he brings a wealth of hands-on knowledge to his writing. Born in North Carolina, a region renowned for its deep-rooted NASCAR culture, Drew developed a passion for cars early in life, often building and working on vehicles from a young age. At VINCheck, Drew leverages his extensive technical background to provide in-depth analyses of various vehicles. His articles often focus on engine performance, reliability, and maintenance insights, offering readers practical information grounded in real-world experience. Some of his notable contributions include reviews on the Mazda CX-5's longevity and detailed examinations of engine options for models like the 2011 Toyota Camry and Tacoma