Honda Accord vs Hyundai Sonata
For 2005–2022 models, the Honda Accord has 21.0 owner complaints per 10,000 sold, against 51.6 for the Hyundai Sonata. 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 (2005–2022), 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.
Honda Accord
21.0 complaints per 10,000 sold
59% fewer than the Hyundai Sonata
- Complaints
- 11,699
- Sold
- 5,581,915
- Recall campaigns
- 38
- Open NHTSA investigations
- 4
Most complaints: 2008, 2013 and 2018–2019. Fewest: 2006–2007, 2012 and 2021. Every year →
Most-reported problems
-
Airbags, seatbelts and restraints
Typically around 95,870 mi
-
Body control and other modules
Typically around 67,500 mi
-
Harsh, delayed or erratic shifting
Typically around 95,000 mi
-
Driver-assist cameras, radar and calibration
Typically around 15,000 mi
-
Doors, windows, latches, seats and trim
Typically around 31,000 mi
Hyundai Sonata
51.6 complaints per 10,000 sold
2.5× the Honda Accord’s rate
- Complaints
- 13,856
- Sold
- 2,686,273
- Recall campaigns
- 39
- Open NHTSA investigations
- 1
Most complaints: 2011–2013 and 2017. Fewest: 2005, 2010 and 2021–2022. Every year →
Most-reported problems
-
Airbags, seatbelts and restraints
Typically around 81,377 mi
-
Internal engine (bearings, pistons, rings)
Typically around 97,000 mi
-
Stalling and no-start
Typically around 74,750 mi
-
Body control and other modules
Typically around 71,000 mi
-
Wiring harness, grounds and connectors
Typically around 80,000 mi
Common questions
Which has fewer problems, the Honda Accord or the Hyundai Sonata?
For 2005–2022 models, the Honda Accord has 21.0 owner complaints per 10,000 sold and the Hyundai Sonata has 51.6, counting the same model years for both.
What is the most common problem on the Honda Accord?
The most-reported problem on the Honda Accord is airbags, seatbelts and restraints, typically around 95,870 miles.
What is the most common problem on the Hyundai Sonata?
The most-reported problem on the Hyundai Sonata is airbags, seatbelts and restraints, typically around 81,377 miles.
Which Honda Accord and Hyundai Sonata years have the most complaints?
Relative to each vehicle's typical year: Honda Accord: 2008, 2013 and 2018–2019; Hyundai Sonata: 2011–2013 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.