general problems of the 2004 Hyundai Sonata

Eight problems related to steering have been reported for the 2004 Hyundai Sonata. The most recently reported issues are listed below. Please also check out the statistics and reliability analysis of the 2004 Hyundai Sonata based on all problems reported for the 2004 Sonata.

1 Steering problem

Failure Date: 12/12/2022

Nhtsa campaign 09v124000 (Hyundai recall #089) - excessive corrosion, thinning of the metal and perforation of the front sub-frame steel, due to road salt, resulting in separation of the forward mounting of the lower control arm increasing the risk of a crash. The recall was issued in 2009 for 1999-2004 Hyundai Sonatas. The present owner purchased the vehicle in 2014 with no knowledge of previous recall. The excessive corrosion and perforation of the sub-frame was brought to the owner's attention in December 2022 during a routine oil change by a meineke shop and reported as unsafe to drive. The vehicle was towed to route 1 Hyundai in monmouth junction, new jersey, for inspection and repair estimate on December 30, 2022 and an online complaint filed with Hyundai motor America for the recall (case #20721726). Following numerous email communications to Hyundai consumer affairs, it was confirmed by a national consumer affairs representative that the vehicle was covered in Hyundai recall #089. Route 1 Hyundai took photos of the front sub-frame and h-frame, completed a report and submitted it to Hyundai motor America. Hyundai motor America responded that they are declining assistance due to the failure being out of warranty caused by the time in service and mileage of the vehicle. The vehicle has 80,000 miles on the odometer. I am of the understanding that safety recalls are never out of date. Please verify if the response made by Hyundai motor America is justified.

2 Steering problem

Failure Date: 05/24/2019

Takata recall my steering get tight while I'm driving which makes it hard to turn while on the highways.

3 Steering problem

Failure Date: 01/19/2019

The contact owns a 2004 Hyundai Sonata. While the vehicle was undergoing routine maintenance due to steering issues and front end noise an independent mechanic diagnosed that there was extensive rust and corrosion concerning the front cradle frame near the front passenger side tire and near the concentrix brake adjustment for both rear tires pertaining to the subframe. The independent mechanic advised the contact to contact the local dealer for the manufacturer for a recommendation. Dealer recommends the entire cradle be replaced as it will not last much longer and can be dangerous to drive as it is almost rusted through and the rear brakes cannot be adjusted due to rust. There is a recall 09v124000 for this for cars from the rustbelt states but I am in TN and it is not covered. I am in the mountains of north east TN and it should be covered as we also get snow and they salt the roads. This car is dangerous to drive in its present condition and Hyundai needs to have this fixed as obviously from the complaints there is lots of this. Mfg in sept of 2003 so it is within the time frame.

4 Steering problem

Failure Date: 10/06/2017

The 2004 Hyundai Sonata has a recall for the front sub frame rusting to the point where the front suspension mount rust to the extent that the lower control arm separates from it's mounting bracket which can cause loss of control and possible accident. There is a recall for this for cars that were sold or registered in the salt belt states. Every state in my area are listed except my state of virginia. My cars sub frame completely rusted through to where the lower control arm separated from it's brackets while moving entering an exit onto a major highway i95 causing severe damage which isn't covered. The recall is 09v124000. I believe virginia should be added to this recall due to it being in the same area as the other states with the same weather pattern.

5 Steering problem

Failure Date: 05/03/2017

Tl-the contact owns a 2004 Hyundai Sonata. The contact stated while driving at unknown speeds the steering was unstable and the vehicle was shaking. The check engine was illuminated the vehicle was taken to a independent mechanic where it was diagnosed that the cradle had a large rust spot. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The vehicle mileage was 188,000. Ap.

6 Steering problem

Failure Date: 08/19/2016

Severe corrosion on front subframe. It is a recall but no feedback from Hyundai. Salt belt corrosion (lawsuit) again no feedback. Extremely dangerous , could result in injury.

7 Steering problem

Failure Date: 11/18/2015

Front sub frame rusted. Crack in the sub frame near the right front wheel. Car has 70,000 miles on it. Danger of subframe breaking and control arm disconnect.

8 Steering problem

Failure Date: 03/08/2013

The right side of the engine cradle broke (due to corrosion); the result of this broke the right front half axle, and detroyed right front tire.


Other Steering related problems of the 2004 Hyundai Sonata



Safety Ratings of Sonata Cars
Fuel Economy of Sonata Vehicles
Sonata Service Bulletins
Sonata Safety Recalls
Sonata Defect Investigations