2002 Hyundai Sonata Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.44/5 Average
162 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

The 2002 Sonata receives a new look, a refined suspension and an available automanual transmission. The standard features list is lengthened to include such niceties as remote keyless entry and, on GLS and new-for-2002 LX models, 16-inch wheels. In September 2002, Hyundai announced that it had misstated the horsepower ratings for all of the models in its lineup -- the Sonata's 2.4-liter four-cylinder is now rated for 138 hp, while the V6 is now at 170, the previously advertised 2002 power upgrade (11 horsepower) apparently notwithstanding. To compensate, the company is offering owners (of 2000 models and newer) three options: 10 years of roadside assistance, 6-year/72,000-mile basic warranty coverage or 12-year/120,000-mile powertrain coverage.

Pros:
  • Excellent warranty, stylish sheetmetal, lots of bang for your family-sedan buck.
Cons:
  • Noisy four-cylinder engine, some cheap interior bits.

User Reviews:

Showing 11 through 20 of 162.00
  • Good Car - 2002 Hyundai Sonata
    By -

    I purchased my car brand new back in 2002. It now has 123,000 miles on it and Im now just experiencing a few problems. The power steering line is leaking power steering fluid. From other reviews, it seems like this is a common problem and should possibly be a recall because of a poor design flaw. The paint is also peeling on my roof. A few other minor complaints were the antennae broke, but it was still under warranty, the O2 sensor went out a few times and chrome inside door handles peeled, all covered by a recall. Also, the maintenance is a bit pricey. Now for the good. It handles great and has such a smooth ride. No major problems the first 7 years of ownership. Ill buy a Hyundai again.

  • Solid Transportation But - 2002 Hyundai Sonata
    By -

    I now have 94K miles and the car has provided 100% reliable transportation. Most reliable car Ive ever owned. BUT - the electric antenna never worked right from day one, the clock goes on and off and I cant turn the radio off. It keeps coming on at random times. Love the car, it drives wonderfully, very comfortable, no repairs except oil and tires. Good mileage. Still looks shiny and new. The Rick Case purchasing experience was horrible (very manipulative) and their service dept isnt any better. They charged me $460 to do back breaks but only did one and charged me for both. Found a work light hanging from my car when I got home! Ill buy another Sonata soon but not from them.

  • Hasnt cost me a cent in repairs - 2002 Hyundai Sonata
    By -

    Ive owned this car for 8 years and other than oil changes and brakes, it hasnt cost me a cent. There was only one minor steering problem a few years ago, which was covered under warranty. It still rides like new. I would keep this car forever, but Im ready to try out a Hyundai Santa Fe. Hands down, best car Ive ever owned, and Ive owned quite a few over the years.

  • Best car owned - 2002 Hyundai Sonata
    By -

    I have over 140,000 miles on my car and so far Ive only replaced minor parts due to wear and tear. Its very reliable and easy to repair for the do-it-themselves type. Parts are cheap and durable. I expect to at least drive another 100,000 before considering another car.

  • very happy - 2002 Hyundai Sonata
    By -

    i recently purchased my sonata, i love the car. i have owned a for taurus and liked the car but it was to long. this car is a great size nice interior looks very classy. you get a lot for your money.

  • Super car ! - 2002 Hyundai Sonata
    By -

    Sonata was my first car. I have driven many cars as rentals or those that belong to friends, including Ford mustang, oldsmobile alero, chrysler sebring, dodge neon, ford taurus and toyota avalon. I think Sonata beats all these other cars hands down. The audio for a 2002 model is quite good, the looks (i think!) are extraordinary, the drive is smooth as butter. After more than 100,000 miles of driving I can say that its been quite reliable. I havent used the 100,000 mile road-side assistance at all except once when my old batteries ran out while it was sitting in my driveway. Its time to buy my second car and Sonata 2010 is one of my first choices for the test-drive. Great job,Hyunda!

  • After 6 months, I still love it. - 2002 Hyundai Sonata
    By -

    I am very happy with this car. I believe it is one of the best values on the market. Compared to what other car companies are offering for the same price. I stack this sedan toe to toe against comparable sized sedans at a 5 to 8 thousand dollar savings.

  • can it get any sweeter? - 2002 Hyundai Sonata
    By -

    my wife and I had our 92 Buick LeSabre catch fire on the way to work and lost the car.We went on line and looked at everything that might meet her tastes. The Sonata was the one for her. After the test drive we bought the car in less than 10 minutes, there is not a better car when it comes to style, feel and performance. Its a Lexus-Jaguar all rolled into a Hyundai price.Power and speed-a Ferrari it is not;bang for the buck-can it get any sweeter?

  • shake rattle and vear off the road - 2002 Hyundai Sonata
    By -

    test drove this car on the suggestion of a friend it was NOT at all what was promised, all the while the sales person is sitting next to me talking up the car, especially the warranty, but I dont think I would ever keep this car around long enough to even tap the warranty, it is dull car that has shakes and creaks new

  • 2002 Sonata LX - 2002 Hyundai Sonata
    By -

    Ive owned a Tiburon for a year and a half, so I wasnt afraid of the quality. The Sonata seems to be a well built car. It drives smooth and is quiet inside. After owning several GM products that ended up costing me a fortune on repairs, I decided to get a vehicle that had some warranty to it, and a company that would stand behind it. I am very satisfied with the hyubdai products, and can safely say if the quality stays up, my next vehicle will most likely be another hyundai.

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