Segment Competition:
Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Ford Fusion, Nissan Altima
Design Philosophy:
The NF Sonata represented a significant step forward in design and refinement for Hyundai, adopting a more European-inspired aesthetic.
Value Proposition:
Offered a strong balance of features, comfort, and performance at a competitive price point.
Target Audience:
Families, commuters, and individuals seeking reliable and well-equipped transportation.
Powertrain Electrical:
Engine Control Module (ECM), Ignition System, Fuel Injection System, Starting and Charging System, Emissions Control System
Chassis Electrical:
Braking System (ABS, EBD), Steering System (Power Steering), Suspension System (Tire Pressure Monitoring System - TPMS)
Body Electrical:
Lighting System (Headlights, Taillights, Interior Lights), Wiper and Washer System, Horn, Power Windows, Power Door Locks, Remote Keyless Entry, Mirror Control, Seat Adjustment
Comfort And Convenience:
Climate Control System (HVAC), Audio System, Navigation System (if equipped), Instrument Cluster, Warning Lamps and Indicators
Safety And Security:
Airbag System (SRS), Seat Belt Pretensioners, Alarm System, Immobilizer
Troubleshooting Methodology:
Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Symptom-based diagnostics, Wiring diagrams analysis, Component testing procedures
Repair Procedures:
Component replacement, Wiring harness repair, Fuse and relay testing, Sensor calibration
Maintenance Procedures:
Fuse inspection and replacement, Battery testing and charging, Bulb replacement
Depth:
Comprehensive diagnostic procedures, detailed wiring diagrams, component specifications, repair instructions, troubleshooting charts
NHTSA Frontal Crash:
★★★★★ (5-Star)
NHTSA Side Impact:
★★★★ (4-Star)
Braking:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD)
Traction Control:
Traction Control System (TCS)
Stability Control:
Electronic Stability Control (ESC) - Standard on GLS, optional on SE
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags, front side-impact airbags, side curtain airbags
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters
Audio System:
Standard AM/FM/CD player with 6 speakers. Optional Infinity premium audio system available.
Climate Control:
Manual or optional automatic climate control with cabin air filter.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control
Tire Monitoring:
Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) available on higher trims.
Auxiliary Input:
Available auxiliary audio input jack for portable music players.
Oil Change:
Every 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (using synthetic blend or full synthetic oil)
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 105,000 miles (iridium-tipped)
Timing Belt Replacement:
N/A (This engine uses a timing chain)
Engine Oil Capacity:
5.5 quarts (with filter) of SAE 5W-20 or 5W-30 synthetic blend/full synthetic
Coolant Type:
Hyundai Long Life Coolant (or equivalent HOAT coolant)
Engine Oil Consumption:
Some reports of oil consumption issues, particularly with higher mileage vehicles. Regular checks are recommended.
Cv Joint Boots:
Premature wear or cracking of front CV joint boots can lead to failure if not addressed.
ABS Sensors:
Occasional issues with ABS wheel speed sensors, leading to ABS warning lights.
Founding:
Hyundai Motor Company, established in 1967 in South Korea.
Generation Introduction:
The NF Sonata was the fourth generation of the Sonata, launched for the 2005 model year in Korea and for the 2006 model year in North America.
Design Shift:
Marked a significant departure from previous generations, focusing on European styling cues and improved driving dynamics.
Manufacturing Plant:
Asan Plant, South Korea; and Montgomery, Alabama, USA (for North American market)