2002 Hyundai Sonata used buying checklist

Test for the problems owners report most

The most reported problems of this model year, with what to look for on the test drive.

• Ball joint or control arm failure24 owner complaints, usually around 127,000 miles

  Drive over bumps and listen for clunks or rattles. Look for uneven tire wear.

• Doors won't lock, open or latch22 owner complaints, usually around 65,000 miles

  Test every door handle, lock and latch from inside and outside, including the trunk or tailgate.

• Airbags did not deploy in a crash16 owner complaints, usually around 51,000 miles

  Make sure the airbag warning light turns off after start-up, and that every airbag recall was completed.

Make sure these recalls were done

Recall repairs are free at any dealer of the brand. Ask the seller for proof, or have a dealer check the VIN.

• Latches/locks/linkagesRecall number 09V317000, Aug 7, 2009
• Latches/locks/linkagesRecall number 09V171000, May 21, 2009
• SuspensionRecall number 09V124000, Apr 16, 2009
• Fuel system, gasolineRecall number 04V369000, Jul 26, 2004
• Fuel system, gasolineRecall number 04V178000, Apr 9, 2004
• TiresRecall number 03V097000, Mar 17, 2003
• Air bagsRecall number 02V145000, May 24, 2002

Service bulletins worth asking about

Repair instructions the maker sent to dealers for known problems. Ask whether any of these repairs were done.

• The federal safety agency has issued an urgent safety advisory regarding dangerous, counterfeit...Apr 10, 2026
• The federal safety agency has identified the presence of substandard and dangerous driver’s-side airbag...Apr 10, 2026
• Hyundai applies a Paint Protection Film (PPF) on new vehicles before delivery to dealershipsApr 24, 2023
• This bulletin describes the procedure to inspect and identify fluid which may appear around the brake...Nov 30, 2020
• This bulletin describes the requirements for all wheel alignment and/or vehicle tracking claims and best...Feb 5, 2020
• Hyundai: all sonata hybridsMay 1, 2011

Before you pay

• Decode the VIN and make sure it matches the title, the registration and the car itself.
• Get a vehicle history report to check for accidents, salvage or flood titles and odometer problems.
• Ask for service records, especially oil changes and any transmission fluid service.
• Start the car from cold, and drive it at city and highway speeds for at least 20 minutes.
• Have an independent mechanic inspect the car before you sign anything.