Front suspension (struts, control arms, ball joints, sway bar), rear suspension (multi-link, shocks, springs, control arms, sway bar), alignment specifications.
Steering:
Power steering system (hydraulic or electric), steering column, tie rods, steering gear/rack and pinion, alignment.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (disc brakes), calipers, rotors, pads, brake lines, master cylinder, brake booster, ABS system, parking brake.
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system, starter, lighting (headlights, taillights, interior), fuses, relays, wiring diagrams, body control module (BCM).
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system, blower motor, evaporator, condenser, compressor, refrigerant, controls, ducting.
SPIII or SPIV (Refer to manual for exact specification and capacity, e.g., 7.4 Liters / 7.8 US Quarts)
Optional
Transmission Type Optional:
6-speed Manual Transaxle (Less common in US market for this year)
Features
Shift Modes:
Driver Selectable Manual Shift Mode (Shiftronic)
Torque Converter Lockup:
Yes, provides improved fuel efficiency at cruising speeds.
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
4815 mm (189.6 inches)
Width:
1830 mm (72.0 inches)
Height:
1470 mm (57.9 inches)
Wheelbase:
2795 mm (110.0 inches)
Front Track:
1590 mm (62.6 inches)
Rear Track:
1593 mm (62.7 inches)
Ground Clearance:
Approx. 140 mm (5.5 inches)
Weights
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1500-1600 kg (3300-3530 lbs) depending on trim and equipment.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Available in manual.
Towing Capacity:
Not typically recommended or specified for Sonata.
Cargo
Trunk Volume:
463 Liters (16.3 cubic feet)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
IIHS Rating:
Good in front, side, and rear impact tests (Top Safety Pick for 2012 model).
NHTSA Rating:
5-Star overall safety rating (Frontal Driver, Frontal Passenger, Side Driver, Side Rear Passenger, Rollover)
Active Features
Active Safety Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA), Traction Control System (TCS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC).
Passive Features
Passive Safety Features:
Advanced front airbags, front and rear side-curtain airbags, active front head restraints, front seatbelt pretensioners.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Infotainment System:
Available touchscreen navigation system with Bluetooth, USB/iPod connectivity, satellite radio, and premium audio systems (e.g., Infinity).
Driver Assistance
Driver Assistance Features:
Standard ABS, ESC, TCS. Optional features may include rearview camera, parking sensors.
Connectivity
Connectivity Options:
Bluetooth hands-free calling and audio streaming, USB port for media playback and device charging.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first, using synthetic oil. Refer to manual for severe driving conditions.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months. Inspect more frequently.
Cabin Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months. Inspect more frequently.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 105,000 miles (168,000 km) for Iridium-tipped spark plugs.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Inspect at 30,000 miles (48,000 km). Replace if needed or as per manual's severe duty schedule. Typically around 60,000 - 100,000 miles.
Coolant Replacement:
First replacement at 105,000 miles (168,000 km) or 7 years. Subsequent replacements every 52,500 miles (84,000 km) or 5 years.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Specification:
SAE 5W-20, API SN or ILSAC GF-5 certified.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.8 US Quarts (4.6 Liters) with filter change for 2.4L engine.
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Power Steering Fluid:
Refer to manual. Likely a specific Hyundai power steering fluid or equivalent. Not typically user-serviceable beyond checks.
Known Issues
Engine Issues:
Some reports of oil consumption in certain Theta II engines. Potential for carbon buildup in direct-injection variants (less common on MPI). Check for engine recall notices.
Transmission Issues:
Occasional complaints about harsh shifting or delayed engagement. Ensure proper fluid levels and condition.
Suspension Issues:
Reports of premature wear in front struts or bushings, especially in models driven on rough roads.
Electrical Issues:
Infrequent reports of battery drain or issues with certain electronic modules.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Hyundai History:
Hyundai Motor Company, founded in 1967, is a South Korean multinational automotive manufacturer known for its value-oriented, well-equipped vehicles and increasing focus on design and technology.
Model Evolution
Sonata Evolution:
The Sonata, introduced in 1988, has gone through multiple generations, evolving from a budget-friendly sedan to a stylish and technologically advanced competitor in the mid-size segment. The YF generation (2010-2014) marked a significant design shift with its 'fluidic sculpture' design language.
Production
Production Location:
Asan, South Korea; Montgomery, Alabama, USA; Beijing, China (for Chinese market).
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Safety Award:
Recognized as a Top Safety Pick by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) for the 2012 model year.
Industry Recognition:
Often praised for its design, comfort, and value proposition within the mid-size sedan segment during its launch period.