Three problems related to side/window air bag have been reported for the 2003 Hyundai Sonata. The most recently reported issues are listed below. Please also check out the statistics and reliability analysis of the 2003 Hyundai Sonata based on all problems reported for the 2003 Sonata.
The airbag indicator light intermittently comes on, my 2003 Hyundai Sonata with 70k miles. This vehicle has never been in an accident and the seats have not been damaged in any way. The dealership used their scan tool and the code is b1382, the side air bag resistance is too high. The dealership told me that I have to replace the airbag harness (part #917003d010) and this is not covered under my standard warranty. This is a safety issue that the mechanic said is due to insufficient wiring being used in the design of the airbag system. The estimated cost to replace this harness is $1,349 plus the $98 diagnostic fee I had to pay.
: the contact stated while driving on the highway, another vehicle entered and started spinning. The contact moved the vehicle to the far lane, but the other vehicle still hit the passenger side door. When this occurred, none of the airbags deployed. There was a police report taken at the scene. Both occupants were wearing seatbelts, but the passenger sustained minor injuries including a broken finger. The vehicle was deemed totaled by the insurance company.
In 2005 while driving my girl friends 2003 Hyundai Sonata, I went to make a left turn of a main street in oakland, CA. And was hit by a 2006 Mercedes Benz own the passenger side. No air bags where deployed at all. $8. 000 dollars in damage was done. Hyundai corporation never came out to look at the car, but ruled that the sensors acted properly. The car wa equipped I believe with front and side air bags.