AI-generated · grounded in NHTSA data
Reliability & 5-year cost of ownership — 2021 Hyundai Sonata
Overall rating NHTSA-grounded
Average
Estimated 5-year repair + maintenance cost: $5,000–$8,000
The 2021 Hyundai Sonata has an average reliability rating due to several recalls and complaints, particularly involving the fuel system, powertrain, and windshield bonding concerns. However, it doesn't show excessive or highly unusual patterns of failure compared to peers.
Most-common failures
| Part | Typical mileage | Cost range | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| fuel system | 20,000–40,000 miles | $500–$1,500 | very common |
| transmission | 30,000–50,000 miles | $1,200–$3,000 | common |
| windshield bonding | 10,000–30,000 miles | $500–$1,000 | common |
Scheduled maintenance to budget
Routine items every owner should plan for.
- Oil and filter changes
- Brake fluid replacement
- Tire rotation
- Coolant checks
- Transmission fluid change
- Brake pad replacement
- Air filter replacement
Warning signs to watch for
Symptoms that signal a major upcoming repair.
- Fuel smell or leaks
- Loss of drive power
- Windshield rattling or detaching
- Warning lights on dash
- Unusual transmission noises
Generated by gpt-4o on 8/24/2026. Cost ranges are conservative estimates that account for typical regional variation.