Chevrolet Sonic vs Hyundai Elantra
For 2011–2021 models, the Chevrolet Sonic has 19.7 owner complaints per 10,000 sold, against 24.5 for the Hyundai Elantra. Below: what each one’s owners report most, when it shows up, and what it costs to fix.
Both rates cover the same model years (2011–2021), counting each complaint once and dividing by US sales, so the more popular vehicle isn’t penalized for being popular. Years too new to judge are left out. How this is calculated.
Chevrolet Sonic
19.7 complaints per 10,000 sold
20% fewer than the Hyundai Elantra
- Complaints
- 952
- Sold
- 483,310
- Recall campaigns
- 16
- Open NHTSA investigations
- 1
Most complaints: 2012–2015. Fewest: 2011, 2018–2019 and 2021. Every year →
Most-reported problems
-
Body control and other modules
Typically around 50,000 mi
-
Airbags, seatbelts and restraints
Typically around 48,000 mi
-
Harsh, delayed or erratic shifting
Typically around 48,500 mi
-
Stalling and no-start
Typically around 31,000 mi
-
Cooling system: radiator, water pump, thermostat, fan
Typically around 62,000 mi · repair $260–$1,910
Hyundai Elantra
24.5 complaints per 10,000 sold
1.2× the Chevrolet Sonic’s rate
- Complaints
- 5,215
- Sold
- 2,128,729
- Recall campaigns
- 27
- Open NHTSA investigations
- 3
Most complaints: 2013 and 2017. Fewest: 2015 and 2021. Every year →
Most-reported problems
-
Airbags, seatbelts and restraints
Typically around 78,500 mi
-
Stalling and no-start
Typically around 59,850 mi
-
Internal engine (bearings, pistons, rings)
Typically around 80,000 mi
-
Body control and other modules
Typically around 45,000 mi
-
Wiring harness, grounds and connectors
Typically around 77,000 mi
Common questions
Which has fewer problems, the Chevrolet Sonic or the Hyundai Elantra?
For 2011–2021 models, the Chevrolet Sonic has 19.7 owner complaints per 10,000 sold and the Hyundai Elantra has 24.5, counting the same model years for both.
What is the most common problem on the Chevrolet Sonic?
The most-reported problem on the Chevrolet Sonic is body control and other modules, typically around 50,000 miles.
What is the most common problem on the Hyundai Elantra?
The most-reported problem on the Hyundai Elantra is airbags, seatbelts and restraints, typically around 78,500 miles.
Which Chevrolet Sonic and Hyundai Elantra years have the most complaints?
Relative to each vehicle's typical year: Chevrolet Sonic: 2012–2015; Hyundai Elantra: 2013 and 2017.
Source: NHTSA owner complaints, recalls and investigations; US sales from public industry figures; repair costs from book labor hours and parts pricing at national rates. Complaints are self-reported and not independently verified. Problem lists cover each vehicle’s full history. This is not a recommendation to buy or avoid either vehicle.