Used Hyundai Sonata Saloon 2001 - 2005 reliability
Category: Family car
It's fine if you want a large, undemanding, toy-laden saloon that's cheap to buy
What should I look for in a used Hyundai Sonata saloon?
The Sonata is bolted together solidly and, given proper maintenance, reliable. We aren't aware of any major faults and it should be capable of high mileage if it's looked after.
That's one of the reasons why mini-cab drivers like them - so make sure you don't inadvertently end up with one that has been used for that purpose. Only buy one if it has a fully documented service history, backed up, where appropriate, by MoT certificates.
That will also help to verify the mileage. The Sonata wears its miles well and that makes it a target for clockers - criminals who wind back the mileage reading to make an illegal profit.
Ensure all the gadgets work, too, including the air-con. Listen for unusual noises from the suspension, axles and engine. If you're suspicious about anything, walk away. There are enough straight used Sonatas in excellent nick out there, so you can afford to be choosy.
