One problem related to steering noise has been reported for the 2002 Hyundai Sonata. The most recently reported issues are listed below. Please also check out the statistics and reliability analysis of the 2002 Hyundai Sonata based on all problems reported for the 2002 Sonata.
1st week of June 2014, noticed steering was making noises when turning. Checked psf and was low. Added and worked fine for about tree weeks. Then bam !! something busted behind engine. Lots of fluid between engine and firewall. Psf of coarse. Steering became extremely stiff and barely got the vehicle home. Lucky I didn't have an accident. Car wouldn't turn except with excessive force. And I'm 76 yr f. I could have injured or killed myself or others under certain conditions like much higher speeds. How's anyone to know something like will occur at any given totally unexpected moment. I know of a recall about under carriage or sub-frame rust and serious parts breaking off. Something gave and something broke down there and the vehicle is now inoperable.