2011 Hyundai Sonata

mexjohn

As it constantly sends and receives information, it will not last as long as a regular remote control for opening doors.

Yeah, I was just thinking about that after my last post and wondered if it would last as long. I think you're right, the smart key gets used a lot more than a regular "just lock and unlock" type like I have on the Toyota.

xmech

Think about it, this whole train of thought is pretty pointless. 'I love this cars looks, the rest suck', 'I hate how this car looks','This car would look great if they would just'.....

Personal preference, that's all. And be glad we all have different tastes, or we'd all be driving the same car, color and all! Appreciate the differences, and enjoy that to you, your car is the best. :shades:

shot_mos

For those so inclined, here is information on -2- 2011 Hyundai Sonatas that were total losses recently. (I hope that there were no injuries, and especially that none were forum readers).

One SE, and one GLS

CoPart

schdy

And here are 3 pages for 2010 Hondas.

http://www.copart.com/c2/homeSearch.html?criteriaType=detailedSearch&returnPage=- - home&searchType=HOME&filterBaseLabel=Automobile+HONDA&filterCode=&freshRequired=- - true&vehicleType=V&startYear=2010&endYear=2011&make=HOND&model=&titleGroupCode=&- - location=facility&stateFacility=*&zipPostalCode=&mileageRange=99999

Actualy Hyundai 2011 Sonata is one of the least listed.
Maybe that's why my insurance rate is lower.

shot_mos

CoPart is a salvage vendor; it's the last place cars go to before they get chopped up after they've been involved in an accident. These are "real" cars owned by "real" people, not test vehicles.

The reason you see just 2 11s and 3 pages of 10, is that the 11s have only been on the road since February.

:sick:

jlflemmons

Why would that second Honda be totalled? Just for a few scratches and minor dings? Must be more to that one than what appears.

schdy

Can you tell us what was the reason for your original post. I'm smart enough to know there are less 2011 Sonatas on the road than 2010 Hondas. I was just pointing out that Sonatas are not the only cars listed in the salvage yard. Do the numbers on that website help a potential buyer of a 2011 Sonata make their decision? If so then that would be a good reason for the post be it negative or positive. As of now in my opinion I see it as very positive supporting the safety of the Sonata.

mexjohn

Sure looks like the safety built in worked. I see airbags came out and driver and passenger areas appear to be well protected.

I get why you're asking this. I found it interesting, but wondered how it relates to buying a new Sonata.

syitalian25

If I were considering this car and saw these pictures, I would definitely consider it a positive. Look how well the passenger compartment appeared protected in both cases... even the direct side impact there was very little change to the interior dimensions of the vehicle. I am impressed (and sad that anyone can crash such a beautiful car with only 661 miles on it!!)

dash5

I think your site must be mistaken. The 2011 Hyundai Sonata is incapable of being in an accident. Says so right on the sticker. They all come with Iron Man full body repulsor rays and Inspector Gadget wheels that spring the car up off the road if another vehicle gets too close.

Kirstie_H

Finally! The perfect vehicle to recommend in our discussion about best vehicle for a new teenage driver.

m6user

I was just pointing out that Sonatas are not the only cars listed in the salvage yard.

Gee, thanks for letting us know that. Most of us here would never have figured that out by ourselves. Don't know exactly why the OP posted about the salvage yard. Maybe he thought people might need parts or curious as to what they might be going for at salvage. Didn't get the impression that it was bashing but it sure seems many on here did. Why are you so quick to argue and bash other posters. Does this forum say "only for those wishing to buy a new Sonata" or does it just say "2011 Sonata". That title infers a general discussion about the car not just info for those considering buying it. The fact that there are two cars in salvage versus many Hondas means absolutely nothing and trying to make a case on how safe the Sonata is by this small sample is absolutely ridiculous.

Maybe an open mind and a little less blind bias would go a long way here.

schdy

I was under the impression this Forum was for owners, potential buyers and anyone else interested in the 2011 Hyundai Sonata. I agree it's an open Forum but how does it help you with an Infiniti, Toyota and a Mazda. Are you getting any helpful info from our posts? I certainly haven't learned anything about my Sonata from your posts. And if this sounds like bashing I suggest you stand in front of a 6ft mirror (assuming you are 6ft tall) and ask yourself the same question.
Please enjoy your automobiles and let us enjoy ours. I have better things to do than to join the Infiniti, Toyota, or Mazda Forum and discuss their automobiles since my opinion would be with zero experience like your is in reference to the Sonata!

m6user

You know there are many people that post on these forums that don't own the car that is being talked about. I follow this thread because I may purchase a Sonata when the turbo comes out. So I guess I fall into the "anyone else interested in the 2011 Hyundai Sonata" you mention. I do get a lot of useful information from the posts here to find out what people like and don't like about the car.

Don't know what 6ft tall has to do with anything.....pretty childish comment actually. Is that another one of YOUR requirements to post here?

larry134

How do you open the key fob to replace the battery. Thanks

schdy

Don't know what 6ft tall has to do with anything.....pretty childish comment actually. Is that another one of YOUR requirements to post here?

I do not set the requirements for posting here. I offered my comment questioning why you were posting here since you have 3 other non Hyundai vehicles and it appears you have nothing to offer about the 2011 Sonata.
However since you presented your reason I now understand. And if you are seriously interested in purchasing a 2011 Sonata you may want to hear and read all the comments from present owners from 16yrs old to 90 yrs old. Already being an owner I get useful info on acessories, driving tips, and other helpful info from cooperative posters.
The mirror comment was a retorical comment that if you are accusing me of bashing maybe you should look at your comments to me. I detected a tone of sarcasim.
In reference to being chidish as a requirement to post here I suggest you direct that question to the Host.

m6user

You need to read the posts you're replying to. I said YOUR comment about being 6ft tall was childish, not that being childish was a requirement. I've been a member of the forums for awhile and post a lot so I think I have a good handle on what is allowed and not allowed.

And if you are seriously interested in purchasing a 2011 Sonata you may want to hear and read all the comments from present owners from 16yrs old to 90 yrs old.

What would make you think I don't? But even if I wasn't interested in buying a Sonata at all it is still perfectly alright to comment here. Take a look at other make/model forums once in a awhile, it might open your eyes.

This stems from your jumping all over some guy posting about a salvage site which had a couple of Sonatas on it and which it wasn't clear at all as to why he posted it. You assumed the worst and, very sarcastically I might add, offered links to the Honda Accord. I guess you have appoinited yourself sheriff here.

schdy

Don't know what 6ft tall has to do with anything.....pretty childish comment actually. Is that another one of YOUR requirements to post here?

You need to read the posts you're replying to. I said YOUR comment about being 6ft tall was childish, not that being childish was a requirement.

Your comments above can only be taken one way.
And I only mentioned Honda as an example. I could have shown Infiniti's,or Mazdas or Toyotas. The point I was making is that the site referral has nothing to do with the performance, quality or safety of the Sonata, so what was the reason for the post. I think that was a fair question! And I'm sure the original poster does not need your help in personaly attacking me. I'm sure he or she is mature enough to comment to me without your coaching. Some times meddling into other peoples business can be harmful especialy when you don't know who you are medeling with. One thing for sur it is very rude.
And of course it's alright to post your comments here. I never said it wasn't. But if you don't own or want a Sonata I can't understand why you are so interested in posting. That's the reason I don't waist my time on other Forums. Like you, not owning a Sonata, I don't have experience with their cars so how can I post valid experiences or be critical of the cars.
And finaly please put an end to the personal attacks. I don't appreciate you trying to portray me as some evil person looking to badger other posters. There is no requirement for you to like or agree with my posts and you can disagree all the time but don't make it personal.
That's what the mirror comment was all about!
I'm looking forward to any info you can provide on the 2011 Sonata that will aid me in enjoying my purchase.

windjammer

I personally wouldn't buy a first year model change like this from any car manufacture. I have been down that road, and as you know Hyundai is not exactly synonymous with quality. For the first twenty five years or so they produced mostly junk, but was very inexpensive with a good warranty. However I concede that over the past several years they have improved the appearance and quality of there vehicles, along with introducing a couple of nice new models. However it's going to take some time for Hyundai and/or KIA to shake that old image, and time will tell if they continue to improve and maintain a resale value for there vehicles .

Until recently I and most of the people I know wouldn't even have considered a Hyundai or KIA. So for now I will take a wait and see attitude. It's going to be interesting to see what happens.

The 2011 Sonata SE with a few extras on it will run you around 27 to 30K. You can buy quite a few nice family sedans with a proven track record and resale value for that amount.

best,
Jammer

marsha7

I change my Ford and Chrysler 2032/2016 batteries once yearly, and it always seems that the units work much faster...how folks can go over 2 years amazes me...but then, I change my wiper blades every Jan 1 and July 1, so maybe I'm just too retentive...Freud, where are you when I need you???

syitalian25

The Sonata SE is $22,595, there are no options except the Nav/Sunroof/upgraded stereo package for $2600. Even then, you are only at $24,200 + $750 delivery = $24,950 before any discount from the dealer- not $30K. Unlike other manufacturers like Nissan, Honda, and Toyota, Hyundai includes most of the options as standard instead of nickle-and-diming you for everything. That is why the new Sonata is such a great bargain and unmatched by any sedan being sold in that price range IMO.

windjammer

A 2011 Sonata Limited with Nav/Sunroof list for $28,410.00 +$750.00 delivery comes to a little over 29K. This does not include tax and other closing cost. So I stand corrected the range is from about 25K - 29K. for the 2011 Sonata.

Jammer

ewg54

I was ready to pull the trigger on a 2010 LTZ Malibu, I looked at all the other midsize cars, don't care for Honda or Toyota, as they use timing belts instead of chains on their engines. The Altima uses a chain and I have an Infiniti and it has been a good car. But was determined to get the Malibu. Then I read about this Sonata, and I couldn't believe the content of the car and the asking price. Went and drove the Limited and was truly impressed and 3 hours later I was Hyundai owner. Being a car guy I knew they were bringing up their quality in the last few years, the Genesis really opened my eyes. 3000 miles later and I am really pleased with the purchase.

m6user

You win. I shouldn't be here at all. Happy Trails.

lightfootfl

On the bottom of the fob, there is a slot...insert a coin, or flat screwdriver, twist, and there it is. Replace with a new one and close it back up again.
Van

syitalian25

Yeah that is a top of the line, loaded Sonata for $29K including backup camera, nav, front and rear heated seats, and a ton more features. The GLS is $19,900 - the SE is $23,050, and the Limited is just over $25,000 - all including destination charge. This is lower than almost any comparable sedan and includes a lot more features. The Nav package is $2600 on the SE, $2100 on the Limited and that's the only option, everything else is included for no extra cost. Try optioning out a Camry or Accord or Altima to have all those features and it will easily top $30K. Tax is not included in any vehicle's price.

denp3

This was my 3rd time buying a first year model, a 2002, 2006 and now a 2011 of Hyundai. Haven't been disappointed with any. With the warranty, you have some satisfaction. You can have problems with any make, weather being a first model year or later.

backy

For the first twenty five years or so they produced mostly junk, ...

You have GOT to be joking. Hyundai started selling cars in the US in 1985--25 years ago. Do you realize you are calling vehicles such as the 2007-10 Elantra (CR's Top Pick for compacts), the Genesis sedan (2009 NA COTY and CR's top-ranked upscale sedan), the Veracruz (which beat the Lexus RX in MT's comparo), the 2006-2010 Sonata (rated only behind the Passat in the mid-sized class by MT), and the 2007-10 Santa Fe (tied with the Murano for CR's top midsized 2-row SUV) "junk"?

Not to mention even older designs like the 2001-6 Elantra and 2001-6 Santa Fe which have proven to be solid, reliable cars.

Please do take a wait and see attitude on the Sonata. It might help reduce demand, and prices, for those interested in buying one.

schdy

This was my 3rd time buying a first year model, a 2002, 2006 and now a 2011 of Hyundai. Haven't been disappointed with any. With the warranty, you have some satisfaction. You can have problems with any make, weather being a first model year or later.

I have also bought the 2002 Sonata and Elantra, the 2006 Sonata and Elantra 5dr and now the 2011 Sonata SE. Other than a minor horn failure on my 2006 Sonata which was covered under warranty, I haven't had a problem.
Try this website and check the few owner complaints for Hyundai.
http://www.carcomplaints.com/

jsmit86

Replying to: windjammer (May 18, 2010 2:28 pm)
For the first twenty five years or so they produced mostly junk, ...

Got to disagree on this...
Early on, OK bad cars, but by the late 90's these were decent cars.

My mother in law had a 2001 Sonata. Great car with no issues. In 2001, I bought my kids a used 2000 Sonata GLS 4Cyl. with about 14K miles on the odometer for about $11K.

We just traded it with 160K miles last summer on a new 2009 GLS. Original tranny and engine. No major issues until the end. Trans was starting to slip a little, and it was due for a timing chain or belt. I put 3 sets of tire on it, and did the normal maintenance.

I have traveled to Korea at least 2x a year since the early 1990's. In those days my Korean Vendors would never have us ride around in Korean cars; they always picked me up in Cadillac's etc.. As the years progressed, I saw the quality of Hyundai's improving dramatically. Eventually I got to ride in Grandeur's, (XG350) and Equus and the occasional Sonata. I was impressed.

After purchasing the first 2 Sonata's, we bought a Santa Fe for my wife in 2002. Again, a great vehicle, with no issues. We traded it with about 80K miles on a larger Chrysler Pacifica due to the need for additional seating

My last 2 cars were Infiniti's (I30t and G35). I just traded the G on my 2011 Sonata Limited. Between the deal on the car, and the trade, I spent about $17K less on the Sonata than a new G37. So far I am very pleased with the new Sonata. No, it won't out run or out corner a G37, but it is quieter, and represents a great value.

I did not pay full MSRP, (saved about $2K) but even if I had, that would be a better value than many of the competitor's including Camry, Fusion and Accord.

schdy

Go to http://www.carcomplaints.com/ and you can get a better reading on the few complaints on Hyundai cars since 2001.
I wonder what Toyota will be like at this website next year based on what happened this year.
And if I remember when I purchased my 1985 Honda Accord the problems were numerous and Honda had a very bad rep. Now they are in the top 3 in quality.

jlflemmons

Some of those complaints are hysterical. I really liked the three that claim their engine overheating was caused by a manufacturing defect in the head.

After they each had over 80,000 miles on the car. Umm, I think a manufacturing defect would show up a bit sooner???

mexjohn

and as you know Hyundai is not exactly synonymous with quality

I know no such thing. I asked a lot of Hyundai owners about their experiences before buying my Sonata Limited ( for several thousand less than any comparable I checked) and they all reported they have had little to no problems after many miles.

That does not connote to your misinformed comment.

I have known a lot of people who have said, "Never buy the first year of a model," but my last car, and this one, are both first year. The last car lasted me 11 years and I never had anything go wrong but one oxygen sensor in all those years. So far, with about 1500 miles, the Sonata is just great.

I had heard many disparaging remarks about Hyundai over the years, all from people who had NEVER owned one. It's a good thing I have sense enough not to heed the warnings of the uninformed.

schdy

I had heard many disparaging remarks about Hyundai over the years, all from people who had NEVER owned one. It's a good thing I have sense enough not to heed the warnings of the uninformed.

Smart move! Add to the uninformed the unexperienced,Jealous and Competitors.
Yes at one time like Honda and Toyota, Hyundai had serious quality problems.
They worked hard to improve quality and their efforts have put them right up with their competition. The 2011 Sonata may be the largest seller this year. And it is made in America.
Good luck with you purchase and happy motoring.

skdriver

After owning owning 6 Hyundai & 1 Kia product over the last 26 years (between my wife, myself & Daughter) 2 Hyundai Excel's, 1 Accent, 1 XG 300, 1 Kia Amanti, 2009 Santa Fe and now a 2011 Sonata Limited w nav. I have to disagree. We have not had any major problems with any of the vehicles. These cars have cost me NOTHING to operate beyond normal maintenace. My Kia Amanti had a spot that the leather in the seat wore through where my wallet is kept in my back pocket after 4-1/2 years. The dealers comment "that should not have happened, I'll order you a new seat cover, it was installed at no cost under warranty. If, as you say, Hyundai produces 'junk' I would not have continued buying S. Korean products.
The XG 300, Kia Amanti and 2011 Sonata were all first year products. I could not have been happier with these auto purchases.
We have recommended Hyundai products to many friends, some who have purchased them and have not been sorry.
With a quality product, great warranty and competitive prices where can you go. wrong

jlflemmons

I am on my fourth Hyundai product (almost forgot the wife's Tucson). We are also very fortunate to have a top-notch dealer here (owned by the Penske Automotive Group). These guys bust their butts to make the other three local dealers in the Penske Group (Honda, Toyota, Smart) look "average". A good product will boost your image, but tie that to great customer focus from the sales floor to the parts counter and you can take it to the next level.

In this day and age where the quality of 'most' vehicles has improved significantly, customer service is what will make you stand out.

schdy

In this day and age where the quality of 'most' vehicles has improved significantly, customer service is what will make you stand out.

I agree with you. I live in the NY area and I have been dealing with Huntington Hyundai for over 8 yrs with 5 different vehicles and they go out of there way to please their customers.They make service appointments so short time waiting for service and they provide transportation if necessary. So far in 8 yrs I only have required the normal service and state inspections plus a horn replacement.
I always get a questionaire from Hyundai whenever I go for service asking for a Dealer rating. Hyundai is very concerned about their customers.

jlflemmons

The service manager of the dealer I use told me that if they get a bad survey, they don't get a letter or phone call, they get a visit from the Hyundai zone manager. Hyundai has stated before that the goal is to be the #1 Asian marque, with a bulls eye on Toyota, Honda, and Nissan. Somewhere I read that they had surpassed Nissan in quality and customer loyalty, but I don't remember what the actual sales numbers were.

Kirstie_H

There's absolutely no reason for you to leave, m6user!
Unfortunately for a few, someone has to be in charge. Fortunately for me... that's me.
This discussion is for ANYONE interested in the 2011 Sonata. You don't have to own one. You don't have to be interested in owning one. You don't have to know anything about the vehicle. You don't have to contribute anything at all if you don't want to.

Our only requirements are that you don't "troll," and that posts be on-topic. That requirement is largely being met. If there weren't so many posts to be removed, I'd zap all of the nonsense; as it stands, I'll simply say that every member's opinion, questions, and information are welcome, and those who try to "take over" this discussion by mandating who can post and what should be posted are only putting their own posting privileges in jeopardy.

co_car_nut

Hi Folks,
I just took possession of a 2011 GLS. So far, very impressed with the total package, especially for the price paid. My early impression is that the EPA numbers, impressive as they are, might actually be UNDERSTATED. I was wondering what kind of gas mileage other owners are getting (6sp Auto).

Thanks.

chalirebrown

I just bought the 2011 in March and the button doesn't control anything it is the part that looks like part of the body that controls the air flow actually-still it works really well-very nice car for the money!!!Pacific Blue Pearl-never looks dirty even after a dirty rain as they say

bobad

I have been down that road, and as you know Hyundai is not exactly synonymous with quality

Live in the past much?

2011limited

I have been down that road, and as you know Hyundai is not exactly synonymous with quality

Live in the past much?

Fourth in the World, just behind Lexus, Porsche, and Cadillac

http://www.jdpower.com/autos/ratings/quality-ratings-by-brand/sortcolumn-1/ascen- ding/page-#page-anchor

schdy

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/37239533/ns/business-autos/

Fortunately it's not related to our Sonatas.

mexjohn

Fourth in the World, just behind Lexus, Porsche, and Cadillac

Well then, for me, Hyundai must be third, because I bought a Cadillac Eldorado in 96, and an STS in 97 and both left a lot to be desired. The 2011 Sonata Limited has more back leg room than either of those, and I had warranty problems from the outset with both of them.

Of course, I realize that was some time ago, but I was really disappointed in the lack of quality from a marque I'd always thought was top notch until owning it.

The Cadillac was the last US brand I intend to own.

mexjohn

Fourth in the World, just behind Lexus, Porsche, and Cadillac

To be fair, Hyundai and Honda both had the same ratings: **** *** *** *** *****

Read the legend at the bottom of the chart for the actual meaning of the ratings.
***** is among the best, **** better than most *** about average ** the rest

I suspect the 2011 Hyundai models are going to see more **** dots where *** are now.

bobad

Fortunately it's not related to our Sonatas.

Indeed.

However, cars have way too may computerized functions. As we all know, computers are very unreliable, and sooner or later, will fail in unpredictable ways. Automatic parking, anyone?

scottg10

This is good to know. Hopefully representatives from Hyundai take an interest that my car was delivered with a broken door latch, rattles and a scratch. Less than 350 miles on my new car and my drivers seat is fraying at the seams. I expected more from a company that wants to be Number 1.

pegasus17

REF: 3114
Use what little leverage we have as consumers. I have a road/tire noise issue with my GLS. Hyundai corporate has called me 4 times for the initial "sales experience" survey. Each time i asked them to defer the survey until my initial problem has been addressed/resolved. They agreed and will be calling me next week. I have a Friday appt to deal with my noise complaint. FWIW, I consider the initial sales experience survey should include my 30 day complaints (if any) and the dealer's willingness to address such issues. So far, both my dealer and Hyundai corporate have been very consumer-oriented; i hope that continues. i don't mind giving 10's on surveys as long as they do superior "10" quality work. my initial gripes are about noise, loose lug nuts (3 of 20) and a spare tire inflated to 55 psi when it should have been 60 psi. minor issues to be sure but i am very picky and anal. As i have said before, I enjoy driving this car and look forward to many miles of trouble free motoring. On a newly designed vehicle, you have to expect some growing pains as long as they are not major ones.

shot_mos

1) I own the 11 Sonata
2) I am in the business (insurance adjuster)
3) I have a vested interest in the "safety" of a vehicle as well - you hear about "safety" as a selling point; so it's just interesting to point out where and how the passengers are protected.