CarBrief

The 2015 Sonata has 1,207 owner complaints on file with NHTSA, and more than half name the engine[1][2]. It also has 12 recalls, but it earns a top overall rating in NHTSA crash tests[3][4].

1,207owner complaints[1]
12recalls[3]
24–37MPG combined (EPA)[5]
5★NHTSA overall rating[4]

Most reported problems

NHTSA lists 1,207 owner complaints for this model year[1]. Of those, 38 mention a crash, 51 a fire, and 38 an injury[1]. Two deaths were reported[1]. These are unverified owner reports, and one complaint can name more than one part of the car.

The engine group is the biggest by a wide margin, with 669 complaints[2]. It includes 39 fires and 10 injuries, and the median mileage at failure is 66,684[2]. In a sample of engine complaints we read, owners describe losing power or struggling to accelerate when merging, and some describe the engine stalling or shutting off while driving[2].

The other groups are smaller:

Component group Complaints
Engine[2] 669
Electrical system[6] 191
Unknown or other[7] 172
Power train[8] 142
Brakes[9] 93
Fuel/propulsion system[10] 79
Steering[11] 75
Speed control[12] 65

In the power train sample, owners describe hesitation or a delayed response when accelerating, and some describe rough or erratic shifting[8]. In the brakes sample, owners describe brakes locking up, sticking or not stopping the car, and two describe an ABS warning light that did not come on at startup[9]. In the electrical sample, owners describe stalling and odd warning lights or gauges[6].

Brakes complaints include 12 crashes out of 93 complaints, the most crashes of any group[9]. Speed control has 9 crashes out of 65 complaints[12]. Complaint counts are not adjusted for how many cars were sold, so they show what owners reported, not how often a failure happens.

Recalls

NHTSA lists 12 recalls for the 2015 model year[3]. Newest first:

Several of these recalls cover only certain build dates or equipment, so a given car may not be affected[18][19][20][21][22][23][24]. Remove the sentence.

Fuel economy

EPA ratings depend on the engine. Annual fuel cost uses EPA's current fuel price assumptions, not the price when the car was new.

Version City / Highway / Combined MPG Annual fuel cost
2.4L, Automatic (S6)[25] 24 / 36 / 28 $2,400
Sport Limited 2.4L, Automatic (S6)[26] 24 / 34 / 27 $2,500
Hybrid 2.4L, Automatic (AM6)[5] 35 / 38 / 37 $1,800
Hybrid Limited 2.4L, Automatic (AM6)[27] 35 / 38 / 37 $1,800
1.6L turbo, Automatic (AM7)[28] 28 / 36 / 31 $2,150
2.0L turbo, Automatic (S6)[29] 22 / 31 / 26 $2,600
Limited 2.0L turbo, Automatic (S6)[30] 21 / 30 / 24 $2,800

The Hybrid is the most economical at 37 combined MPG[5]. The Limited with the 2.0L turbo is the thirstiest at 24 combined MPG[30]. All listed versions use regular fuel and front-wheel drive[25][29].

Safety ratings

NHTSA rates the 4-door front-wheel-drive Sonata at 5 stars overall, 5 stars in the frontal test and 5 stars in the side test[4]. Rollover is 4 stars, with a 10.5% rollover risk[4]. The Sonata Hybrid has the same ratings[31].

Engine and size

EPA lists three engines for this model year. The 1.6L 4-cylinder is rated at 178 hp[32]. The 2.0L 4-cylinder is rated at 245 hp[33]. The 2.4L 4-cylinder is rated at 159 to 185 hp depending on version[34].

The sizes below are Canadian-market specifications and can differ slightly from US cars[35].

Version Length Width Height Wheelbase Curb weight
GL/GLS/Limited/Sport sedan[35] 191 in 74 in 58 in 111 in 3,252 lb
Hybrid/Limited sedan[36] 190 in 72 in 58 in 110 in 3,508 lb
Sport 2.0/2.0T Ultimate sedan[37] 191 in 74 in 58 in 111 in 3,505 lb

How 2015 compares with other years

1995: 66 complaints, 2 recalls19951996: 23 complaints, 1 recalls1997: 49 complaints, 2 recalls1998: 49 complaints, 1 recalls1999: 170 complaints, 4 recalls19992000: 276 complaints, 4 recalls2001: 205 complaints, 3 recalls2002: 320 complaints, 7 recalls2003: 199 complaints, 6 recalls20032004: 202 complaints, 1 recalls2005: 165 complaints, 1 recalls2006: 1,047 complaints, 9 recalls2007: 696 complaints, 5 recalls20072008: 425 complaints, 3 recalls2009: 460 complaints, 2 recalls2010: 345 complaints, 2 recalls2011: 3,474 complaints, 17 recalls20112012: 1,712 complaints, 11 recalls2013: 2,024 complaints, 11 recalls2014: 778 complaints, 8 recalls2015: 1,207 complaints, 12 recalls1,20720152016: 886 complaints, 9 recalls2017: 879 complaints, 5 recalls2018: 383 complaints, 2 recalls2019: 172 complaints, 0 recalls20192020: 197 complaints, 4 recalls2021: 189 complaints, 4 recalls2022: 113 complaints, 3 recalls2023: 103 complaints, 2 recalls20232024: 55 complaints, 1 recalls2025: 28 complaints, 0 recalls2026: 6 complaints, 1 recalls
Owner complaints filed with NHTSA for each Sonata model year. The 2015 is highlighted[3].
Show the numbers
Model yearComplaintsRecalls
1995662
1996231
1997492
1998491
19991704
20002764
20012053
20023207
20031996
20042021
20051651
20061,0479
20076965
20084253
20094602
20103452
20113,47417
20121,71211
20132,02411
20147788
20151,20712
20168869
20178795
20183832
20191720
20201974
20211894
20221133
20231032
2024551
2025280
202661

NHTSA's counts for each Sonata model year put 2015 near the top of the list. It has 1,207 complaints and 12 recalls[3]. Only three years have more complaints: 2011 with 3,474, 2013 with 2,024 and 2012 with 1,712[3]. On recalls, only 2011 has more, with 17[3]. The 2012 and 2013 model years each have 11[3].

The years right next to it are lighter. The 2014 model year has 778 complaints and 8 recalls, and 2016 has 886 complaints and 9 recalls[3]. Complaints are not adjusted for sales, so a higher count can partly reflect more cars on the road.

Should you buy a used 2015 Sonata?

The 2015 Sonata has strong crash ratings and a range of fuel economy choices, including a 37 MPG Hybrid[4][5]. Against that, it has 12 recalls and a heavy engine complaint count, including 39 engine-related fires reported in complaints[3][2]. Before buying, check the VIN for open recalls and ask for proof that the recall repairs were done. Ask whether the car has had stalling or power-loss problems, since owners describe these in the complaints we read[2]. A car with a clean recall record and a good service history looks like a fair choice, while one with open recalls or unexplained engine trouble deserves caution.

Frequently asked questions

What are the most common problems with the 2015 Hyundai Sonata?
Engine complaints lead with 669 of 1,207 total on file with NHTSA[2][1]. In a small sample of those complaints, owners describe power loss and stalling[2]. Electrical (191) and power train (142) are the next named parts[6][8].
How many recalls does the 2015 Hyundai Sonata have?
NHTSA lists 12 recalls for the 2015 model year[3]. They cover issues such as ABS fire risk, seat belts, brake calipers, an air bag and a sunroof[13][17][23][19][18].
What is the gas mileage of the 2015 Hyundai Sonata?
The 2.4L Sonata with Automatic (S6) is rated 28 combined MPG[25]. The Hybrid is rated 37 combined MPG[5]. The 2.0L turbo Limited is rated 24 combined MPG[30].
Is the 2015 Hyundai Sonata safe?
NHTSA gives it 5 stars overall and 4 stars for rollover[4]. It also has 12 recalls, so check the VIN for open ones[3].
Is 2015 a good year for the Hyundai Sonata?
It has the 4th most complaints and the 2nd most recalls of the model years NHTSA lists, while 2014 and 2016 have fewer of both[3].

Facts and sources

  1. NHTSA has 1,207 owner complaints on file for the 2015 Hyundai Sonata (38 mention a crash, 51 a fire, 38 injuries, 2 deaths reported). NHTSA vehicle records
  2. 669 complaints name the engine component group (4 crashes, 39 fires, 10 injuries, median mileage at failure 66,684). NHTSA vehicle records
  3. Owner complaints and recalls for every Hyundai Sonata model year (chart above). NHTSA recall database
  4. NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings, 4 DR FWD: overall 5 stars, frontal 5 stars, side 5 stars, rollover 4 stars; rollover risk 10.5%. NHTSA vehicle records
  5. EPA rating for Sonata Hybrid, 2.4L 4-cyl, Automatic (AM6), Regular, Front-Wheel Drive: 35 city / 38 highway / 37 combined MPG; EPA estimated annual fuel cost $1,800. EPA / DOE fueleconomy.gov
  6. 191 complaints name the electrical system component group (5 crashes, 17 fires, 11 injuries, median mileage at failure 55,000). NHTSA vehicle records
  7. 172 complaints name the unknown or other component group (5 crashes, 12 fires, 5 injuries, median mileage at failure 47,750). NHTSA vehicle records
  8. 142 complaints name the power train component group (2 crashes, 0 fires, 4 injuries, median mileage at failure 50,000). NHTSA vehicle records
  9. 93 complaints name the brakes component group (12 crashes, 6 fires, 10 injuries, median mileage at failure 46,500). NHTSA vehicle records
  10. 79 complaints name the fuel/propulsion system component group (3 crashes, 5 fires, 4 injuries, median mileage at failure 44,000). NHTSA vehicle records
  11. 75 complaints name the steering component group (4 crashes, 0 fires, 4 injuries, median mileage at failure 59,500). NHTSA vehicle records
  12. 65 complaints name the speed control component group (9 crashes, 0 fires, 3 injuries, median mileage at failure 50,000). NHTSA vehicle records
  13. Recall 23V651, filed September 22, 2023: Service Brakes, Hydraulic › Antilock / Traction Control / Electronic Limited Slip › Control Unit / Module . NHTSA recall database
  14. Recall 21V749, filed September 24, 2021: Electrical System › Software. NHTSA recall database
  15. Recall 17V617, filed October 4, 2017: Seat Belts › Pretensioner. NHTSA recall database
  16. Recall 17V359, filed June 5, 2017: Parking Brake › Indicator Light. NHTSA recall database
  17. Recall 17V152, filed March 8, 2017: Seat Belts › Front › Anchorage. NHTSA recall database
  18. Recall 16V726, filed October 11, 2016: Visibility › Sun / Moon Roof Assembly. NHTSA recall database
  19. Recall 16V232, filed April 21, 2016: Air Bags › Frontal. NHTSA recall database
  20. Recall 15V678, filed October 20, 2015: Electrical System › Instrument Cluster / Panel. NHTSA recall database
  21. Recall 15V414, filed June 30, 2015: Seat Belts › Front › Buckle Assembly. NHTSA recall database
  22. Recall 14V784, filed December 9, 2014: Power Train › Axle Assembly › Axle Shaft. NHTSA recall database
  23. Recall 14V368, filed June 24, 2014: Service Brakes, Hydraulic › Foundation Components › Disc › Caliper. NHTSA recall database
  24. Recall 14V325, filed June 12, 2014: Electrical System › Wiring. NHTSA recall database
  25. EPA rating for Sonata, 2.4L 4-cyl, Automatic (S6), Regular, Front-Wheel Drive: 24 city / 36 highway / 28 combined MPG; EPA estimated annual fuel cost $2,400. EPA / DOE fueleconomy.gov
  26. EPA rating for Sonata Sport Limited, 2.4L 4-cyl, Automatic (S6), Regular, Front-Wheel Drive: 24 city / 34 highway / 27 combined MPG; EPA estimated annual fuel cost $2,500. EPA / DOE fueleconomy.gov
  27. EPA rating for Sonata Hybrid Limited, 2.4L 4-cyl, Automatic (AM6), Regular, Front-Wheel Drive: 35 city / 38 highway / 37 combined MPG; EPA estimated annual fuel cost $1,800. EPA / DOE fueleconomy.gov
  28. EPA rating for Sonata, 1.6L 4-cyl turbo, Automatic (AM7), Regular, Front-Wheel Drive: 28 city / 36 highway / 31 combined MPG; EPA estimated annual fuel cost $2,150. EPA / DOE fueleconomy.gov
  29. EPA rating for Sonata, 2.0L 4-cyl turbo, Automatic (S6), Regular, Front-Wheel Drive: 22 city / 31 highway / 26 combined MPG; EPA estimated annual fuel cost $2,600. EPA / DOE fueleconomy.gov
  30. EPA rating for Sonata Limited, 2.0L 4-cyl turbo, Automatic (S6), Regular, Front-Wheel Drive: 21 city / 30 highway / 24 combined MPG; EPA estimated annual fuel cost $2,800. EPA / DOE fueleconomy.gov
  31. NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings, 4 DR FWD: overall 5 stars, frontal 5 stars, side 5 stars, rollover 4 stars; rollover risk 10.5%. NHTSA vehicle records
  32. EPA Test Car List, 2015 Hyundai Sonata with 1.6L 4-cylinder: rated 178 hp. www.epa.gov
  33. EPA Test Car List, 2015 Hyundai Sonata with 2.0L 4-cylinder: rated 245 hp. www.epa.gov
  34. EPA Test Car List, 2015 Hyundai Sonata with 2.4L 4-cylinder: rated 159 to 185 hp depending on version. www.epa.gov
  35. Transport Canada specifications via NHTSA vPIC, SONATA 4DR SEDAN GL/GLS/LIMITED/SPORT: length 191 in, width 74 in, height 58 in, wheelbase 111 in, curb weight 3,252 lb (converted from centimeters and kilograms). vpic.nhtsa.dot.gov
  36. Transport Canada specifications via NHTSA vPIC, SONATA 4DR SEDAN HYBRID /LIMITED: length 190 in, width 72 in, height 58 in, wheelbase 110 in, curb weight 3,508 lb (converted from centimeters and kilograms). vpic.nhtsa.dot.gov
  37. Transport Canada specifications via NHTSA vPIC, SONATA 4DR SEDAN SPORT 2.0/2.0T ULTIMATE: length 191 in, width 74 in, height 58 in, wheelbase 111 in, curb weight 3,505 lb (converted from centimeters and kilograms). vpic.nhtsa.dot.gov

Complaints submitted to NHTSA by owners; unverified reports, one complaint can name several components. Complaint counts are not normalized by sales; compare years of the same model, not different models. EPA annual fuel cost uses EPA's current fuel price assumptions, not the price when the car was new. Horsepower is the rating listed for EPA test vehicles. Dimensions are Canadian-market specifications and can differ slightly from US models.