I purchased a brand new 2006 Sonata with the 3.3L V6/ auto trans in
May.

I traded my 1997 Honda Accord (I4, 5pd manual) with 167,000 miles.

Just over 3,700 mostly highway (80%+) miles later, I wanted to check in
with my first Hyundai experience.

Overall, I have very satisfied.

Some comments/observations:

1) On the afternoon I took it home from the dealer, I was trying to
parallel park. As the steering wheel was turned fully right, I heard a
spring popping sound from the steering wheel. The dashboard airbag
light came on, and the horn stopped working (???). I took it back to
the dealer two days later. They said the clockspring had broken in the
steering column. They had to order the part. Three days later, I
received a postcard in the mail that the part came in. I called the
dealer, and had the part replaced in less than an hour. The first
(albeit way too soon) service experience was positive.

2) I think the stereo and the climate control dash regions should have
been reversed. Its uncomfortable to change the stereo settings (sits
way too high in the dashboard). Now I may be nitpicking, but the stereo
"next track"/"previous track" buttons and the "fwd"/"rev" buttons
should function horizontally, not vertically. Just not as intuitive to
use. Also, not having "change station up/down" button on the steering
wheel remote radio control makes the steering wheel mounted control
much less useful than it should be. Fader control emphasizes too much
power to the front speakers, and not enough to the rear. Native MP3
play capability is nice.

3) I havent noticed the sloshing sound from the gas tank others have
reported.

4) 12v accessory power outlet in the trunk? Good idea.

5) Havent had to use the heater yet; overall, the A/C has performed
well during 90 deg+ days.

6) Trip computer avg MPG, driving 55-65MPH interstate driving, is
around 30-31 MPG. City driving drops to computer-reported 23-24 MPG
avg.

7) I thought it was decorative at first- the narrow metal chrome trim
piece on the lip of the hood. It should provide extra protection from
stone chips on the hood lip and reduce chance of rust there- well
thought out.

8) Trunk is huge, and the split fold down rear seats make hauling
longer items a breeze.

9) I am concerned with how well the cloth interior will wear...I notice
fabric fraying on the edges of the sun visors already. Keeping an eye
out for any extraordinary signs of wear from normal use.

10) The rear wide windows roll down completely into the doors! Trivial,
but a feature appreciated by rear passengers.

11) The "lag" when the accelerator is pressed -the same thing
mentioneed previously here- is definitely present. But it's just
something that I've gotten used to- especially since there doesnt seem
to be much options here.

12) I havent had any problems with the headlights being aimed too high.
In fact, I never gave it a thought until I saw several postings about
it here.

13) Plenty of headroom and leg room (I'm 6'2"), although the front
seats do feel a little short.

14) I agree that the cubby holes and storage nooks dont seem to be
sized well. Yes, the console cup holders should be called the "console
cup-tippers". A previous poster was spot-on with the Yahoo drink bottle
fit reference...they're right!

15) I do have a question though: how do you clean the dashboard? It has
kind of a tacky feel that seems to really attract and hold dust/road
grit. It is a matte finish...I certainly wouldn't try Armor All or any
cleaner/conditioner like that. What do you clean/protect your
dashboard/ interior plastic trim with???

Just wanted to share my experience, since I've learned so much from the
posters in this group.

Overall, I'd buy this car again without hesitation. Its good value, and
my insurance DROPPED almost $140 annually vs. my 9 year old Honda
Accord.

Cheers.
Mark Space

 

mattcg1@yahoo.com wrote:

> 15) I do have a question though: how do you clean the dashboard? It has
> kind of a tacky feel that seems to really attract and hold dust/road
> grit. It is a matte finish...I certainly wouldn't try Armor All or any
> cleaner/conditioner like that. What do you clean/protect your
> dashboard/ interior plastic trim with???

I use a damp cloth like a dish rag or similar. DON'T use a paper towel!
In my other vehicles, after I clean the windshield with Windex or
similar, I use the paper towel to wipe the over spray from the dash. In
the Sonata, the dash will pull paper fibers from the towel making the
dash a mess. I've also noticed that the plastic under the chrome trim
bar (glovebox door and area around it) are very soft and easily
scratched. Mine has several scratches already from watches, rings,
pocket book buckles, etc. These materials are very cheap compared to
other cars I own and have owned. I hope Hyundai improves them in later
models.


Matt

 

mattcg1@yahoo.com wrote:

> 15) I do have a question though: how do you clean the dashboard? It has
> kind of a tacky feel that seems to really attract and hold dust/road
> grit. It is a matte finish...I certainly wouldn't try Armor All or any
> cleaner/conditioner like that. What do you clean/protect your
> dashboard/ interior plastic trim with???

I use a damp cloth like a dish rag or similar. DON'T use a paper towel!
In my other vehicles, after I clean the windshield with Windex or
similar, I use the paper towel to wipe the over spray from the dash. In
the Sonata, the dash will pull paper fibers from the towel making the
dash a mess. I've also noticed that the plastic under the chrome trim
bar (glovebox door and area around it) are very soft and easily
scratched. Mine has several scratches already from watches, rings,
pocket book buckles, etc. These materials are very cheap compared to
other cars I own and have owned. I hope Hyundai improves them in later
models.


Matt

 

On 26 Aug 2006 20:27:05 -0700, mattcg1@yahoo.com wrote:


>15) I do have a question though: how do you clean the dashboard?

I use Meguiars Quick Detailer detailer on the vinyl only. It maintains
the matte OEM look. (afraid to use it on painted or other plastic
interior parts)
-

Bob

 

On 26 Aug 2006 20:27:05 -0700, mattcg1@yahoo.com wrote:


>15) I do have a question though: how do you clean the dashboard?

I use Meguiars Quick Detailer detailer on the vinyl only. It maintains
the matte OEM look. (afraid to use it on painted or other plastic
interior parts)
-

Bob

 

How come you didn't notice all this before you bought the vehicle?

Tom

<mattcg1@yahoo.com> wrote in message
news:1156649225.042938.207080@b28g2000cwb.googlegr oups.com...
>I purchased a brand new 2006 Sonata with the 3.3L V6/ auto trans in
> May.
>
> I traded my 1997 Honda Accord (I4, 5pd manual) with 167,000 miles.
>
> Just over 3,700 mostly highway (80%+) miles later, I wanted to check in
> with my first Hyundai experience.
>
> Overall, I have very satisfied.
>
> Some comments/observations:
>
> 1) On the afternoon I took it home from the dealer, I was trying to
> parallel park. As the steering wheel was turned fully right, I heard a
> spring popping sound from the steering wheel. The dashboard airbag
> light came on, and the horn stopped working (???). I took it back to
> the dealer two days later. They said the clockspring had broken in the
> steering column. They had to order the part. Three days later, I
> received a postcard in the mail that the part came in. I called the
> dealer, and had the part replaced in less than an hour. The first
> (albeit way too soon) service experience was positive.
>
> 2) I think the stereo and the climate control dash regions should have
> been reversed. Its uncomfortable to change the stereo settings (sits
> way too high in the dashboard). Now I may be nitpicking, but the stereo
> "next track"/"previous track" buttons and the "fwd"/"rev" buttons
> should function horizontally, not vertically. Just not as intuitive to
> use. Also, not having "change station up/down" button on the steering
> wheel remote radio control makes the steering wheel mounted control
> much less useful than it should be. Fader control emphasizes too much
> power to the front speakers, and not enough to the rear. Native MP3
> play capability is nice.
>
> 3) I havent noticed the sloshing sound from the gas tank others have
> reported.
>
> 4) 12v accessory power outlet in the trunk? Good idea.
>
> 5) Havent had to use the heater yet; overall, the A/C has performed
> well during 90 deg+ days.
>
> 6) Trip computer avg MPG, driving 55-65MPH interstate driving, is
> around 30-31 MPG. City driving drops to computer-reported 23-24 MPG
> avg.
>
> 7) I thought it was decorative at first- the narrow metal chrome trim
> piece on the lip of the hood. It should provide extra protection from
> stone chips on the hood lip and reduce chance of rust there- well
> thought out.
>
> 8) Trunk is huge, and the split fold down rear seats make hauling
> longer items a breeze.
>
> 9) I am concerned with how well the cloth interior will wear...I notice
> fabric fraying on the edges of the sun visors already. Keeping an eye
> out for any extraordinary signs of wear from normal use.
>
> 10) The rear wide windows roll down completely into the doors! Trivial,
> but a feature appreciated by rear passengers.
>
> 11) The "lag" when the accelerator is pressed -the same thing
> mentioneed previously here- is definitely present. But it's just
> something that I've gotten used to- especially since there doesnt seem
> to be much options here.
>
> 12) I havent had any problems with the headlights being aimed too high.
> In fact, I never gave it a thought until I saw several postings about
> it here.
>
> 13) Plenty of headroom and leg room (I'm 6'2"), although the front
> seats do feel a little short.
>
> 14) I agree that the cubby holes and storage nooks dont seem to be
> sized well. Yes, the console cup holders should be called the "console
> cup-tippers". A previous poster was spot-on with the Yahoo drink bottle
> fit reference...they're right!
>
> 15) I do have a question though: how do you clean the dashboard? It has
> kind of a tacky feel that seems to really attract and hold dust/road
> grit. It is a matte finish...I certainly wouldn't try Armor All or any
> cleaner/conditioner like that. What do you clean/protect your
> dashboard/ interior plastic trim with???
>
> Just wanted to share my experience, since I've learned so much from the
> posters in this group.
>
> Overall, I'd buy this car again without hesitation. Its good value, and
> my insurance DROPPED almost $140 annually vs. my 9 year old Honda
> Accord.
>
> Cheers.
> Mark Space
>

 

How come you didn't notice all this before you bought the vehicle?

Tom

<mattcg1@yahoo.com> wrote in message
news:1156649225.042938.207080@b28g2000cwb.googlegr oups.com...
>I purchased a brand new 2006 Sonata with the 3.3L V6/ auto trans in
> May.
>
> I traded my 1997 Honda Accord (I4, 5pd manual) with 167,000 miles.
>
> Just over 3,700 mostly highway (80%+) miles later, I wanted to check in
> with my first Hyundai experience.
>
> Overall, I have very satisfied.
>
> Some comments/observations:
>
> 1) On the afternoon I took it home from the dealer, I was trying to
> parallel park. As the steering wheel was turned fully right, I heard a
> spring popping sound from the steering wheel. The dashboard airbag
> light came on, and the horn stopped working (???). I took it back to
> the dealer two days later. They said the clockspring had broken in the
> steering column. They had to order the part. Three days later, I
> received a postcard in the mail that the part came in. I called the
> dealer, and had the part replaced in less than an hour. The first
> (albeit way too soon) service experience was positive.
>
> 2) I think the stereo and the climate control dash regions should have
> been reversed. Its uncomfortable to change the stereo settings (sits
> way too high in the dashboard). Now I may be nitpicking, but the stereo
> "next track"/"previous track" buttons and the "fwd"/"rev" buttons
> should function horizontally, not vertically. Just not as intuitive to
> use. Also, not having "change station up/down" button on the steering
> wheel remote radio control makes the steering wheel mounted control
> much less useful than it should be. Fader control emphasizes too much
> power to the front speakers, and not enough to the rear. Native MP3
> play capability is nice.
>
> 3) I havent noticed the sloshing sound from the gas tank others have
> reported.
>
> 4) 12v accessory power outlet in the trunk? Good idea.
>
> 5) Havent had to use the heater yet; overall, the A/C has performed
> well during 90 deg+ days.
>
> 6) Trip computer avg MPG, driving 55-65MPH interstate driving, is
> around 30-31 MPG. City driving drops to computer-reported 23-24 MPG
> avg.
>
> 7) I thought it was decorative at first- the narrow metal chrome trim
> piece on the lip of the hood. It should provide extra protection from
> stone chips on the hood lip and reduce chance of rust there- well
> thought out.
>
> 8) Trunk is huge, and the split fold down rear seats make hauling
> longer items a breeze.
>
> 9) I am concerned with how well the cloth interior will wear...I notice
> fabric fraying on the edges of the sun visors already. Keeping an eye
> out for any extraordinary signs of wear from normal use.
>
> 10) The rear wide windows roll down completely into the doors! Trivial,
> but a feature appreciated by rear passengers.
>
> 11) The "lag" when the accelerator is pressed -the same thing
> mentioneed previously here- is definitely present. But it's just
> something that I've gotten used to- especially since there doesnt seem
> to be much options here.
>
> 12) I havent had any problems with the headlights being aimed too high.
> In fact, I never gave it a thought until I saw several postings about
> it here.
>
> 13) Plenty of headroom and leg room (I'm 6'2"), although the front
> seats do feel a little short.
>
> 14) I agree that the cubby holes and storage nooks dont seem to be
> sized well. Yes, the console cup holders should be called the "console
> cup-tippers". A previous poster was spot-on with the Yahoo drink bottle
> fit reference...they're right!
>
> 15) I do have a question though: how do you clean the dashboard? It has
> kind of a tacky feel that seems to really attract and hold dust/road
> grit. It is a matte finish...I certainly wouldn't try Armor All or any
> cleaner/conditioner like that. What do you clean/protect your
> dashboard/ interior plastic trim with???
>
> Just wanted to share my experience, since I've learned so much from the
> posters in this group.
>
> Overall, I'd buy this car again without hesitation. Its good value, and
> my insurance DROPPED almost $140 annually vs. my 9 year old Honda
> Accord.
>
> Cheers.
> Mark Space
>

 

How does that compare with actual measurements?

> 6) Trip computer avg MPG, driving 55-65MPH interstate driving, is
> around 30-31 MPG. City driving drops to computer-reported 23-24 MPG
> avg.

 

How does that compare with actual measurements?

> 6) Trip computer avg MPG, driving 55-65MPH interstate driving, is
> around 30-31 MPG. City driving drops to computer-reported 23-24 MPG
> avg.

 

twfsa wrote:

> How come you didn't notice all this before you bought the vehicle?

What a stupid comment. Much of what he listed can't be noticed without
driving for a while. Things such as MPG in varying conditions. Things
such as what will or won't fit in the cubby holes. It wasn't until I
got my Sonata home and tried to fit standard size things in the cubbies
that I found that they were just a little too small for almost all of
the standard things I use. The dash compartment isn't deep enough for a
CD without leaving the door open. The console compartment isn't big
enough for a standard size square box of tissues. The cup holder won't
hold most cups. I generally don't take a cup of coffee on a test drive,
but probably should in the future. The sloshing gas tank only occurs
when the tank is nearly full. All of the Sonatas I test drove (3
different ones) has less than 1/4 tank.


MAtt

 

twfsa wrote:

> How come you didn't notice all this before you bought the vehicle?

What a stupid comment. Much of what he listed can't be noticed without
driving for a while. Things such as MPG in varying conditions. Things
such as what will or won't fit in the cubby holes. It wasn't until I
got my Sonata home and tried to fit standard size things in the cubbies
that I found that they were just a little too small for almost all of
the standard things I use. The dash compartment isn't deep enough for a
CD without leaving the door open. The console compartment isn't big
enough for a standard size square box of tissues. The cup holder won't
hold most cups. I generally don't take a cup of coffee on a test drive,
but probably should in the future. The sloshing gas tank only occurs
when the tank is nearly full. All of the Sonatas I test drove (3
different ones) has less than 1/4 tank.


MAtt

 

Thanks Matt. Wiped it down this weekend, and it looks fine. On the
cheap to boot

Matt Whiting wrote:
> mattcg1@yahoo.com wrote:
>
> > 15) I do have a question though: how do you clean the dashboard? It has
> > kind of a tacky feel that seems to really attract and hold dust/road
> > grit. It is a matte finish...I certainly wouldn't try Armor All or any
> > cleaner/conditioner like that. What do you clean/protect your
> > dashboard/ interior plastic trim with???
>
> I use a damp cloth like a dish rag or similar. ...

 

Thanks Matt. Wiped it down this weekend, and it looks fine. On the
cheap to boot

Matt Whiting wrote:
> mattcg1@yahoo.com wrote:
>
> > 15) I do have a question though: how do you clean the dashboard? It has
> > kind of a tacky feel that seems to really attract and hold dust/road
> > grit. It is a matte finish...I certainly wouldn't try Armor All or any
> > cleaner/conditioner like that. What do you clean/protect your
> > dashboard/ interior plastic trim with???
>
> I use a damp cloth like a dish rag or similar. ...

 

Generally falls within 10-15% of actual miles vs. actual gas used.
Highway is MUCH more accurate than the mixed city driving (which makes
sense).

Partner wrote:
> How does that compare with actual measurements?
>
> > 6) Trip computer avg MPG, driving 55-65MPH interstate driving, is
> > around 30-31 MPG. City driving drops to computer-reported 23-24 MPG
> > avg.

 

Generally falls within 10-15% of actual miles vs. actual gas used.
Highway is MUCH more accurate than the mixed city driving (which makes
sense).

Partner wrote:
> How does that compare with actual measurements?
>
> > 6) Trip computer avg MPG, driving 55-65MPH interstate driving, is
> > around 30-31 MPG. City driving drops to computer-reported 23-24 MPG
> > avg.