The Hyundai Sonata is NOT what you THINK it is | Buying 2012 Hyundai Sonata in Nigeria

The 4 Million naira 6th generation Hyundai Sonata is now getting popular on the streets of Nigeria and it just felt right to find one for the sake of breaking it down for potential buyers.
This car is not a good car to buy in the Nigerian used car market because it is a car with a very poor resale value and second hand value.
This Sonata is a very refined car that has a lot of cool features.
0:00 - INTRO
1:25 - EXTERIOR
4:13 - INTERIOR
8:32 - DRIVING
11:18 - COMPATIBILITY
12:34 - PROBLEMS
16:02 - FINAL VERDICT
This video is sponsored by Tecno Mobile

[@akinmadeemmanuel4385]

Amazing review!! I love it I drive this, there's also a common problem this car has, 1.STEERING CLUNK, it's a very common problem, all sonatas from 11-14 would have this issue at least once, 2. This car is not suitable for bad roads! It's not bad roads friendly at all. 3. Use Coolant for this car not water, change oil at 3,700 millages 4. My own speakers are actually pretty loud! Very loud. 5. The engine is somewhat noisy 6.The acceleration is actually very good!! And yes!! Use a good mechanic oooo! I tried fixing my steering clunk one time, the mechanic turn my steering wheel upside down 😂..

[@victorolaosebikan]

The clunking of the steering is actually set of ratchets in the steering column that are made of rubber which fails time to time. It's not only Sonata but one or too Hyundai products (Elantra for instance) of the same generation. When the gears are fully worn, you may even turn the steering and the front wheel will not move at all. Like you warned, we need our mechanics to UNDERSTAND the make-up of these cars (and other brands) and STOP expecting them be modelled after Toyota or Honda and the moment they are different they are bad !! As per the steering clunking, its just to change these gears in the steering column and we are good.

[@paganizondasroadster1660]

You get sense.

[@paganizondasroadster1660]

@@victorolaosebikan you’re right

[@lh8625]

It's called steering coupler

[@yhemysun]

There’s a recall on the engine too. You’ll be luck to a car that’s gone thru the recall and fixed.

[@kunleakoleowo723]

It’s actually a good brand. Drove it for a while. Apart from a few bad bushings in front that took a while to detect because of my funny mech, everything tap. Used the thumb start without wahala too. The car is grossly underrated.

[@Mike-en6to]

Thanks for making the review it really helped

[@victorolaosebikan]

Great review again. Always a delight watching.. About the rattling timing components (initially at cold starts before oil flows round, but will be extended) can be prevented by using QUALITY recommended oil. High grades oil like "synthetic" or even "high mileage" rated oil (GF-6A stamped for non-turbo engines as reviewed here) since these generation are getting older now. To prevent oh, NOT to cure the rattling sound. Hence Crank emphasis on buying quality toks so we can continue from where Oyinbo stopped 😂 My real issue with these Theta engine series (also shared with Cousin car Kia Optima) is the rod bearing failures due to factory error in the engine block . Because in Nigeria, we like holding on to our cars for relatively longer period for obvious reason. ANOTHER REASON to invest in not only specified but higher grade engine oil and to also do TIMELY oil changes. But Hyundai (and Kia) "try" for these generations of their cars sha, dem shocked the Japanese. And the rest of us: designs, features, affordability , even quality to a great extent.. INNOSON, NORD, DangotePAN etc: There is hope!

[@21izah]

Been waiting for a new video 🙂 known a lot abt cars from here, especially wen it comes to Nigerian conditions, u know wat to buy and d problem b4 hand, nice job 👏

[@eventionsgifts4937]

Nice review. It's a decent looking car that I've been anxious to know how reliable it is and I think you've given me good overview. Dope video as usual 👍🏾👍🏾

[@wizdomihanachu9456]

Oowwhh Finally some one from my country, Dude I will like to see more videos on jdm cars haw they survive in Nigeria and there performance act like a real enthusiasm on them,not like a regular car guy,good work make money while having fun

[@chukwuemekagodson1322]

Nice one Crank. Your video was as captivating and educative as usual.

[@theCreativeSav]

This video is brought to you by Tecno.....Yayyy!🎉 congrats guys.

[@emekaugoanyanwu]

I have the 2010 version for two years now and I love it 100%. Like till today I am happy that I left the Toyota and Honda brand after what I went through driving a Toyota Camry 2007 & Honda Accord. So I tell everyone to go for this.

[@MRREVILOable]

I'm about paying for a 2010 toks this evening.. I won't regret it. I'm sure 😂😂

[@hillaryisemhenbita6292]

Update bro​@@MRREVILOable

[@ogunoyeadetunji2736]

Thanks for the review. I’ve been waiting for it. I’m a first time car owner and I’ve been enjoying it since I got it.

[@onoriodeanuta3121]

Did you get it as a Tokunbo or Niaja used?

[@nnamdiugo4766]

Nice video 💯. Could you talk about Acura TL 09-14 model specifically. Thank you 🙏

[@ahmednuhuosodura436]

Weldone Crank. Always delivering and on point. Please review Ford Escape SUV for us. Thanks bro

[@okpiabhelefranklyn5616]

Awesome review Crank as always 💥...Can you please review the Hyundai Tucson and the ix36 🙏

[@mmenyeneleo5163]

I love Yur videos. ah was really anticipating a video on Hyundai cars thanks Boss. Ah wil also like yu to do a review on Audi A4 2007 and above.

[@victorokolo7937]

Great review. I like the modernity of the car

[@sauce8277]

“A big teddy bear and I just want to hug it”. Omygosh so true. 😱😅 It’s like a blue panda! *For sporty driving:* I believe 4th gear is where the electronic limiters stop. Go into Manual mode and keep your RPM to 3.5K I believe. 4.2k is maximum torque I think. Will need to play with it more but that’s what I learned. It has a learning curve to drive sporty and that’s annoying but mine has paddle shifters for that 3rd and 4th gear switching. 1st gear launch with a late gear switch in manual mode is actually pretty fun but I doubt it’s the best for the car.

[@beyondthesuits6931]

Thank you for this amazing content.

[@davidezima9118]

Brooo... this hyndai sonata is fast oooo. No think am. I own one. And I bought it Nigerian used. Over 2 years now and it's still fast and incredible. The maintenance is just like every other Toyota cars because, generally, with the situation of the economy, every car parts are now expensive. Sonata is a good buy! Period!

[@TheBaseet]

Which year is the sonata?

[@awesamuel9526]

Thank you Crank, for the great review. I've been waiting to see it. Now I can compare it to camry b4 making a purchase. Could you please review the Elantra too?

[@emekaasoegwu313]

Nice review. Please can you also do a review on the 2005-2009 Hyundai tucson

[@moyo_fa]

Nice video. Thanks for the info Shank!

[@234drive]

🐐 😡

[@pelumitemp7498]

Sponsorships rolling in 🔥🔥🔥

[@mobichibuikem496]

I’ve really enjoyed and learnt from your videos boss. Thanks for the informative videos. Please can you do a review on Mercedes Benz C400, C450 and C43

[@HenryEgonu]

Nice video. But a misconception most Nigerian car owners and reviewers make on trim levels. SE is not Sport Edition, rather it is Standard Equipment and it is usually the lowest trim level of the car model. Sport Editions will always have certain key features that make it stand out from the pack, plus a Sport Badge will be on it as well.

[@powerpower2653]

If there's way you can drop videos everyday please do I've been patiently waiting for next videos.

[@UduakobongPatrick]

You are the real OG! Thanks crank

[@Victor-jf5jt]

Been waiting for this one!

[@SamuelOla-o2o]

You’re very very accurate I use an Hyundai sonata 2011 6 years and it feels incredible without proper maintenance

[@Ramen959]

Wonderful review, the sonata sometimes develops horn issues, I remember having to turn my steering a certain way to be able to use the horn, I had to change the faulty part twice. It’s a really nice snd economical car is you maintain it properly.

[@cuterebornmilo]

you need to replace the clock spring inside the steering

[@hadeyeencah]

I live in Illinois and mehnnn, Hyundai's are killing it. Before you see a Toyota, you'd have seen 12 Hyundai's. Amazing cars, I'm a BMW and Infiniti fan and still keeping both rides in Nigeria but when I drove this Sonata, I fell in love with the speaker, how quick it is and it's space. Couldn't resist, I drove one out of the dealership. Just avoid the 2011 models, 89% of their engines have been replaced due to engine ish

[@fabbyokosi5589]

Should we avoid the 2010 models also

[@seanboi2836]

I'm using 2013 limited edition, never had any issues with it and my speakers sounds great

[@francisobi9738]

Nice content 234 drive. I was wondering if you guys could do a review on cars that are good for those who like to travel long distances. Grateful.

[@olanrewajufestus7377]

Regular mechanic spoilt my first hyundai. Now using second hyundai I love them. My next car will be hyundai

[@mbamgboji8444]

Nice Review. Please I'll like you to do a Nigerian review of the 2nd Generation Acura MDX (2008). I'm interested in that car.

[@damilolaakanni]

IMO, Nissan lost its reputation for reliability when they started using CVTs (Continuous Variable Transmission) in almost all their cars. Also, some of the cars they have were not updated regularly or even at all for a long time, so they were behind the competition. The management crisis they had from 2019 didn't help them either. But they're coming back up with the new cars they're making now, like the new Z, Frontier, Rogue and Pathfinder.

[@oseboodigie8406]

I can’t even believe he mentioned Nissan 😅

[@benjaminomeiza9801]

Great Review Bro, when will you review made or assembled in Nigeria cars? Nord and Innoson

[@malachiosobase9796]

Thanks keep it coming

[@lordemperorpaschal3122]

Good Work 234 Drive, you guys are doing well... Please Can You Do A Review On Ml 350 2010, i want to buy the car so i want to know whats up with the car. Thanks

[@seunigeclearwaters]

Nice one Crank, can you do a review on Elantra 6th generation with comparison to a Corolla & Civic, fuel economy, maintenance & suitability with Nigeria roads

[@marthaadolphus9726]

Please do this 234drive

[@notjustyouraverageguy]

My favorite car reviewer 🔥🔥😮‍💨

[@timilehinare]

Krank... Please can you review the C320 W203. I LOVE THE INTERIOR OF THAT CAR. Thank you.

[@SwagboiDaveyy]

My dad had this exact model he had the turbo model and got it from a dealership and the turbo disappointed him at his office and is still there to this day

[@daneigbadon2685]

Does he wants to sell

[@emmanuelchima1676]

Please review 2015/16 Hyundai Azera. I love that model but I don't know much about it and how it feels

[@JoeSef09]

I've been waiting for a review of this car for long Please do one for Pontiac Vibe too

[@iamseunlucas]

Do you have a Hyundai mechanic to recommend in Lagos...lovely review by the way @234drive

[@sauce8277]

I have the sparkly blue 2012 Hyundai Sonata. No turbo is the only way to go for reliability and the styling is GROSSLY underrated. Every sound from the car is fantastic. Horn, unlock, lock….sounds like instruments or a video game. Steering clunk is real. Got it at 100,000k miles, like clockwork. Plastic coupler for me within steering wheel. Not sure why people are saying rubber pieces. HOWEVER, These cars have serious AC problems….they were not properly designed and the only bandaid is a new compressor….when in reality it could actually just be the sensor that kicks the compressor on. Unfortunately, 90% of the time, you will probably get a wrong diagnosis and your only solution is a new expensive compressor fix. VERY important to know about these cars if you live in a hot climate and don’t have the money for a AC fix. Generally, the car can have some electrical problems. IMO. I would recommend getting the trim with the cloth seats and lumbar support for a perfect daily experience that will make you happy to drive everyday.

[@garciadavid582]

My sister works for assembly plant for Ford n a buddy who works for Subaru. Ponit is they pressure all the workers from the smallest item's to big to get numbers. I believe if slow down some we can avoid lots issue's or recalls etc. Built them properly

[@sauce8277]

@@garciadavid582 gotcha. Thx for insight

[@idiangulu3072]

Nice. Can you do a 406 review ?

[@wunderkinddarlington3100]

Please can you do a preview of the Kia Optima 2015/16? 🙏🙏🙏

[@iykfrancis1203]

I have the Sonata 2013 2.4 ltr. Presently it's in the mechanic because of the timing chain issue. I was advised to change the chain and the adjuster too. I love the cool smooth drive. It's executive too and it has presence. Just have a good mechanic wey sabi and enjoy the ride

[@ayomidedavid4103]

You guys should talk about Passat cc (Volkswagen cc) too

[@sirbarnd-val574]

I have the 010 of that car, the late 07 body style but different interior..... Omo that car is super okay especially on fuel consumption..... Don't get me wrong when I say I love the body style much more than dis 012 model that has narrow back. Customise ur 010 and 012 and see how Good d 010 will look better compare to 012 but in all elentra has d most beautiful body style in all.... My opinion Hyundai is much better than toyota after driving two Toyota cars. Good stabilisation and handling compare to my previous owned Toyota Camry 08.

[@lawhimself]

Please do a review on the Hyundai Elantra and Mazda CX-5/7

[@nueljoe1209]

@234drive its called the instrument cluster not odometer... odometer is where the mileage and trips are. Instrument cluster houses everything including Tachometer I.e rpm, speedometer, temperature and fuel gauge, odometer etc

[@234drive]

Thanks 🙏

[@tntbrown9075]

I have always loved this car,but always scared,then i came to see if I'd see a review on it and boom,i just paid for it... God bless you

[@OneAfricaProject]

Are you still using the car? What has been your experience?I want to pay for one

[@6atlantis]

You failed to mention the massive recall for the Theta 2 engines between 2011-2019

[@olukayodeadedapo]

You just saved my money! Samething someone told me today after a year. The turbo engine is zero

[@olabodevictor3164]

Hyundai to Toyota and Honda is Like Lexus to BMW and Benz. Please do a Ford Fusion review. I think the car is underrated.

[@kevinnwoke2227]

Im stuck between sonata, acura, and edge, but with fuel wahala, edge is out. Great video, and the community here don give me ginger. Sonata is a go, Nigerian used probably 😅, costs no be here😂😂

[@TundeAjibawo]

I've seen a 2012 Sonata with JBL speakers. My friend drives one. It's fast and drives smoothly. It's the American spec though.

[@best-of-me]

Avoid American spec of Hyundai cars. The worst come from the USA

[@oyedejiayodeji4397]

Please do a video on ODO, miles, trip A, trip B

[@c4rn199]

I paused the video at 14:43 after you said EGR valve. I hope you realize this car is GDI and has an electronic throttle body so there is no EGR valve. Also saying the 2.4 is less problematic than the 2.0T is misinformation, the 2.0T probably is more reliable. It has much stronger internals and doesn't have weak connecting rods shaped like pencils. That "ka ka ka ka" sound you described is called rod knock and it happens when the connecting rod bearing is damaged. The normal ticking you hear is the high pressure fuel pump that lives under the plastic engine cover. Both the 2.4L and the 2.0T are theta II engines and both have the connecting rod issue (well those made in the US at least). The steering is electronic and there are 3 different levels that are tied to tire size on these cars, there are also different suspension parts between the limited and sport models. 2014 models have modes to switch the steering and have a different cluster. The only electrical issues you'll see in this car are with the brake light bulbs, if you replace them with red leds you'll never have to change them again. The battery in the key fob takes a cr2032 battery, same one that goes in most desktop computers so it's very easy to find. If the key fob goes dead there is a spot in the center console that you can insert the key fob and it will power the key enough to start the car. There are a number of recalls but they are all pretty easy to fix yourself, the clockspring for the airbag seems to go out at higher mileage, and the steering coupler for the mdps deteriorates as well. If you want to see a modified and tuned 2.0T check out the short videos on my channel. I have a 2.0T approaching 225k miles on the original engine.

[@lh8625]

John from the Sonata group?

[@c4rn199]

@@lh8625 you got it

[@awesamuel9526]

Your channel?

[@hardeyshinanurudeen446]

Thank you for all your review and all your thought you use to share, Please we need you to give us a tour on Geely coolray and azkarra pro and if it advisable to buy in Nigeria

[@snrbrothermedia]

Even without a review. If I can afford it, I'm getting that Geely Coolray sport. That car is mad

[@hardeyshinanurudeen446]

@@snrbrothermedia are you sure sir. How good is it, is it better than lexus rx350

[@tonystark701]

If you can find certified Geely mechanics and original parts and have the money to bankroll repairs, they yes, go for it. If not, steer clear.

[@hardeyshinanurudeen446]

@@tonystark701 okay, thank you sir

[@johnpaulnwodo9414]

Please do a review on the Volkswagen Passat CC 🙏🏽

[@oloyededamilolajr782]

I have the sport edition for 2 years now.. My area road is very bad... But I can assure you these car is very very very rugged and sweet to drive... Like very sweet car

[@Nnadi_II]

Please do a video on the ford fusion se 2014

[@akanbilincoln1307]

Good review. This means its no-go area.

[@234drive]

Not at all🤣 that’s not what the video is implying…the Turbo engines can just be problematic

[@edemnsikak3047]

Crank please do a review on 2008 Hyundai Sonata

[@mrkingshok]

@crank timing chain tensioner cannot be seen outside the engine. it's always an internal item, as against the physical tension for timing belts. meanwhile, it seems that any coupe looking 4 doors always have timing chain issues.

[@bamideleoluwaseunademuyiwa8488]

Please do review for Kia Optima 2012 too

[@temitopeemmanuel2735]

Crank it would be nice if you can do a review of Acura ZDX 😊

[@adebayoadediranbfc]

I have actually used 3 different hyundai cars. Just last year, I got the 2022 hyundai palisade calligraphy. That car is on another level.

[@bhyyrttf]

Baller! What do you think of sonata 2016, I'm torn btw toyota and that car as my dream car as money nor dy.

[@adebayoadediranbfc]

@Abraham Anireto Toyota seem better with Nigeria roads.

[@bhyyrttf]

@@adebayoadediranbfc Ok, thank you

[@ifeanyinwobodo2318]

@@bhyyrttf what Toyota do you have in mind

[@kehindebabalola8968]

Bro please can you do a review of Passat CC 2010 - 2013

[@randomstuff159]

tbh I think hyundai is one of those under rated brands, I love my 2004 santa fe its beaten up but it keeps chugging along even though it has almost 270k miles on it. Everyone says "cAnT wAiT fOr YoUr EnGiNe BlOwS" but with proper matinance these cars can last, I highly rec changing oil every 3 to 4k miles any longer I usually see engines go left and right. Other then some quality issues here and there they are great cars. If I get the oppertunity to buy a newer one for a good price I will 100% buy another hyundai.

[@abelblackzm]

Can you please do a video about the Toyota Axio?

[@Sfdi123]

Please do a review for ix35

[@MarceloMarcelo-ug6mc]

Please 🙏 what about the 2009 Acura TL is it a good car 🚘 and cheap to maintain in Nigeria 🇳🇬?

[@michaeltoreno4836]

2010-12 EX-L accord has rear AC vents as well

[@234drive]

But it’s not 4 million 😤

[@cryptoelai4380]

How much is the limited edition tokunbo? Those it have second value? Are the parts are available & affordable?

[@powerpower2653]

Do a review for Range Rover evoque 2015

[@Cameronnp]

내가 몰던 똑같은 sonata입니다. 10년동안 잘 탔어요. 멋진 차네요

[@agutobechukwu]

Baba where u dey since??? Missed you

[@thefelixsaba]

What do you think of their sonata 2008 to 2010 editions? I am planning on getting anyone of those models. Btwn 2008 to 2010. Advise pls

[@FrancisEze_MMO]

Yes, the sonata is a great feel and “luxurious” car to drive. I drive the sport trim. This car engine is not reliable. Oil pump always failing, and if you’re not a big bag, this car can send you back to village because of repairs and pricey parts. In 2022, instead of buying a toks 2011-13 sonata, go buy a Toks 2014 Honda Accord. That Honda accord is everything in 011-013 sonata plus less engine noise, more reliability, smoother drive and less maintenance cost.

[@victordaji6234]

Crank please make a video for Acura MDX 07/08, that car is just everywhere right now. It has flooded the street of Lagos so much.

[@victordaji6234]

@Andrei why run from the car when it’s everywhere ? Do you have one ? You know one of the signs of a good car is you must be able to find it all around.

[@ademolamorgan5481]

@@victordaji6234 no mind the novice jor 😂

[@victordaji6234]

@Ademola Morgan I wanted him to give me his view before I give him my beautiful and awesome experiences with the car in the past 8 months and still counting. 🥰

[@victordaji6234]

@Andrei it makes sense, very comfortable and reliable. It serves the purpose of both car and as an SUV. 😍

[@nstrevo_]

Please review Hyundai Elantra 2021/22

[@frebethcollections3490]

Please make review on hyundai ix35

[@Pndchris]

I had a 2012 2.0T... awesome sporty car... maintained it so well until it had turbocharger issues and I gave it to the wrong mechanic. Ended up selling it. Miss it. Would buy it again... maybe not the turbocharged one this time... it was fun tho

[@omotayoomotay2723]

Please what was the cause of the bad turbocharger issue/problem???

[@JCTheLawnCareGuy]

It’s usually the electronic waste gate actuator that causes the issues with the turbo. Generally an easy fix

[@Yushy09]

The shiny panel in the front of Hyundai sonata 20113/15 makes the car looks like a small car

[@fawoleoladipo987]

They are good brand as I'm using it now

[@KebinMalvan]

Please any good mechanic for Hyundai sonata in portharcourt?? If yes please reach out to me

[@eguasaogiamien1755]

Nice review once again. I’m thinking of getting either a 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport or 2018 Hyundai Tucson Limited. Please what do you think about these cars? Are they reliable enough and good for our roads?

[@234drive]

These are two reliable SUVs with quite expensive parts but because you are going for a 2018, you would have a lot of years to enjoy the car before things start to break. The SantaFe has a bigger interior and third row seating incase you have a family you would be moving with in the car. You should also have in mind that the major parts you will be changing bi-anually would be suspsension parts. If you are trying to buy one we can give you futher advice...just send us an E-mail : [e-mail]

[@Osahense]

Do Kia Optima Next pls!!!

[@cyrilkoopaofficial2420]

How about Nissan maxima 2012 what’s ur thought about it

[@Knowledgepluggin]

Would you rate the 2012 model above 2012 Toyota Camry?

[@ogundelemorakinyo1481]

You didn’t mention that it also comes in a hybrid version

[@davesmith1297]

Talk about the azera 2013

[@akinjoleakinbola8188]

can we please do for toyota sienna ?

[@bennelson7916]

pls which car will you advice me to buy? reply me pls thanks

[@tap_image_for_contact_info_YT]

I want to buy the 2015 sonata, any reviews on it

[@oplynxxyt9974]

Crank please review 2008 Honda Accord (evil spirit)🙏🏻