2018 Hyundai Sonata SEL, SEL w/ Tech, Limited, Limited w/ Ultimate, Sport ,Sport 2.0T, Limited 2.0T
VIN: 5NPE34AF5JH186159 | 2018 | Hyundai-Kia America Technical Center Inc (hatci) | MONTGOMERY, ALABAMA, UNITED STATES (USA)
2018 Hyundai Sonata SEL, SEL w/ Tech, Limited, Limited w/ Ultimate, Sport ,Sport 2.0T, Limited 2.0T — 2.4L 4 Cyl, FWD, Automatic. Sedan/Saloon.
B
70/100
Safety & Recall Score: Good
This score reflects NHTSA safety data only — recalls, complaints, and crash ratings. It does not include title status, accident history, or odometer records. Verify hidden history with VIN Pro Plus →
Composite rating based on recalls, complaints, crash ratings, and vehicle age.
⚠ 1 recall campaign
⚠ 375 owner complaints (high)
✓ VIN fully verified
VIN Decoded
VIN Verified- Official VIN decode record located
- Type: PASSENGER CAR
- Body: Sedan/Saloon
- Plant: MONTGOMERY, ALABAMA, UNITED STATES (USA)
NHTSA Recalls
1 Recall Campaign- Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2017-2018 Sonata,...
Owner Complaints
375 filed with NHTSA- The vehicle experiences a severe delayed start/extended crank condition...
- What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is...
Fuel Economy
31 MPG Combined- City: 28 MPG
- Hwy: 37 MPG
- Combined: 31 MPG
- Fuel: Gasoline
Technical Specifications
Vehicle Overview
VIN
5NPE34AF5JH186159
Model Year
2018
Make
Hyundai
Model
Sonata
Trim
SEL, SEL w/ Tech, Limited, Limited w/ Ultimate, Sport ,Sport 2.0T, Limited 2.0T
Body Style
Sedan/Saloon
Vehicle Type
PASSENGER CAR
Doors
4
Seats
5
Seat Rows
Not reported by manufacturer
Drive Type
FWD/Front-Wheel Drive
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Transmission
Automatic
Engine
2.4L 4 Cyl
Manufacturer
Hyundai-Kia America Technical Center Inc (hatci)
Plant Location
MONTGOMERY, ALABAMA, UNITED STATES (USA)
Country of Origin
UNITED STATES (USA)
VIN Breakdown
Position 1 — WMI Region
5 → United States
Position 2 — Manufacturer
N → Hyundai-Kia America Technical Center Inc (hatci)
Position 3 — Vehicle Type
P → PASSENGER CAR
Positions 4–8 — Descriptor
E34AF → Sonata SEL, SEL w/ Tech, Limited, Limited w/ Ultimate, Sport ,Sport 2.0T, Limited 2.0T
Position 9 — Check Digit
5 → ✓ Valid
Position 10 — Model Year
J → 2018
Position 11 — Plant Code
H → MONTGOMERY, ALABAMA, UNITED STATES (USA)
Positions 12–17 — Serial
186159 → Production sequence
Engine & Powertrain
Engine Model
GDI THETA-II
Engine Manufacturer
HMC
Cylinders
4 Cyl
Displacement
2.4 L
Displacement CC
2400.0
Displacement CI
146.45698582735
Horsepower
187 hp
Valve Train
Dual Overhead Cam (DOHC)
Drive Type
FWD/Front-Wheel Drive
Fuel Type Primary
Gasoline
Fuel Economy & Environmental Impact
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Combined MPG
31 MPG
City MPG
28 MPG
Hwy MPG
37 MPG
Annual Fuel Cost
$2,050
5-Yr Fuel Cost
$10,250
GHG Score
7/10
CO₂ Emissions
284 g/mi
Barrels/Year
9.6
Safety & Driver Assistance
ABS
Included
ESC
Included
Traction Control
Not reported in manufacturer data
TPMS
Standard (Federal Req.)
Forward Collision Warn
Not reported in manufacturer data
Lane Departure Warning
Available
Lane Keep System
Available
Blind Spot Monitoring
Included
Blind Spot Intervention
Not reported in manufacturer data
Rear Cross Traffic Alert
Not reported in manufacturer data
Adaptive Cruise Control
Available
Parking Assist
Not reported in manufacturer data
Dynamic Brake Support
Not reported in manufacturer data
Pedestrian AEB
Not reported in manufacturer data
Rear Auto Braking
Not reported in manufacturer data
Auto Reverse System
Not reported in manufacturer data
Daytime Running Lights
Included
Adaptive Driving Beam
Not reported in manufacturer data
Keyless Ignition
Included
Auto High Beams
Not reported in manufacturer data
Front Airbags
1st Row (Driver and Passenger)
Side Airbags
1st Row (Driver and Passenger)
Curtain Airbags
1st and 2nd Rows
Knee Airbags
Driver Seat Only
Seat Belt Type
Manual
Pretensioner
Not reported in manufacturer data
Brake System
Not reported in manufacturer data
Steering Location
Left-Hand Drive (LHD)
Vehicle Dimensions & Weight
Curb Weight
3,527 lbs
GVWR
Class 1: 6,000 lb or less (2,722 kg or less)
Doors
4
Towing & Utility
GVWR
Class 1: 6,000 lb or less (2,722 kg or less)
Axles
2
Drive Type
FWD/Front-Wheel Drive
Wheels & Tires
TPMS
Standard (Federal Req.)
Manufacturing & Identity
Manufacturer
Hyundai-Kia America Technical Center Inc (hatci)
Manufacturer ID
1034
Make ID
498
Model ID
2459
Plant Company
Hyundai Motor Manufacturing (HMMA)
Plant City
MONTGOMERY
Plant State
ALABAMA
Plant Country
UNITED STATES (USA)
Vehicle Descriptor
5NPE34AF*JH
GVWR
Class 1: 6,000 lb or less (2,722 kg or less)
Recall & Safety Summary
Total Recalls
1
Recall Status
Recall campaigns found
Recall Campaigns
1 recall campaign identified
VIN repair status unknown — verify open recalls with NHTSA or a Hyundai dealer.
ABS
Included
ESC
Included
✅ Pre-Purchase Checklist
📋
Get a Vehicle History ReportUnlock accident history, title status & odometer records with VIN Pro Plus for $4.99 — scroll down to get it.
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Verify All Recalls Are FixedVisit the Hyundai dealer with this VIN to confirm all 1 recall are resolved.
🔒
NICB Stolen Vehicle CheckFree check at nicb.org to confirm no theft, salvage, or total-loss history.
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Negotiate Using This ReportUse the 1 recall campaign as leverage for a lower price.
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Review Title & Lien StatusEnsure no outstanding liens before transfer. Your state DMV can verify title.
Estimated Market Value
Based on vehicle age, class, trim & U.S. market conditions
Market estimate
$8,400–$12,000
Based on vehicle class, age, trim, and U.S. market trends. Verify with Kelley Blue Book or Edmunds for mileage-adjusted value.
💡 This is a general estimate, not real data for this specific vehicle. Get the real, transaction-based Verified Market Value with VIN Pro Plus — $4.99 →
📚 Helpful Vehicle Resources
Safety Ratings
Overall Rating
5 Stars
Front Crash Rating
5 Stars
Side Crash Rating
5 Stars
Rollover Risk
4 Stars
Safety Recalls
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:TRUNK LID:LATCH
Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2017-2018 Sonata, 2016-2018 Sonata Hybrid, 2018-2020 Accent, and 2016-2017 Azera vehicles. The trunk latch may become damaged, preventing the opening of the trunk from the inside. As such, these vehicles fail to comply...
Risk: A person inside the trunk compartment may become trapped, increasing their risk of injury.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the trunk latch base, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 4, 2021. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service...
Service bulletins and open investigations aren't part of this report. You can search them for free on NHTSA's site.
Finance & Cost Estimates
🔧 Service & Parts for this 2018 Hyundai Sonata
$1,270/yr
Estimated Annual Insurance (national avg — varies by driver, location & coverage)
5-Year Cost of Ownership (estimate)
Insurance (5yr)
$6,350
Maintenance (5yr)
$7,500
5-Yr Fuel Cost (EPA)
$10,250
Depreciation (5yr est.)
$5,400
⛽ Fuel Cost Calculator
🏢 Find Hyundai Dealers
Get this VIN's recalls resolved, service appointments, and CPO program details from an authorized Hyundai dealer.
Find Hyundai Dealers →NICB VINCheck is a free federal database. Run a check to confirm this VIN has no theft, salvage, or insurance total-loss history.
Run Free NICB Check for 5NPE34AF5JH186159 →State Emissions & Lemon Law
Emissions Testing & Lemon Law by State
Select any state to see its current emissions testing requirements and lemon law protections.
Select a state above to view its requirements.
OBD-II Check Engine Code Lookup
🔧 Check Engine Light Code Lookup
Enter a code from your OBD-II scanner, pick from the dropdown, or tap a common code chip below.
Common:
Owner Complaints
The vehicle experiences a severe delayed start/extended crank condition...
The vehicle experiences a severe delayed start/extended crank condition before finally starting. This is caused by a loss of fuel pressure prime due to the defective fuel filter...
What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is...
What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? The paint is peeling off the car, when I went to the dealership...
Hyundai dealership confirms I am in need of a...
Hyundai dealership confirms I am in need of a new engine due to large oil consumption which is a known issue on 2018 Hyundai Sonata engines. Hyundai will...
One engine valve has lost pressure and is not...
One engine valve has lost pressure and is not repairable
Vehicle has been making a clunking noise (front passenger...
Vehicle has been making a clunking noise (front passenger area). Brought to independent service center where they determined that the strut tower is failing. Current mileage 66000. Appt...
My car stalls while driving and then I try...
My car stalls while driving and then I try to restart it but nothing happens. After reading online about the fuel pump issues and extended warranty related to...
Since I had Service Campaign 9C2 completed, the car...
Since I had Service Campaign 9C2 completed, the car hesitates to start, does a mini-lurch upon cold start and runs rough. Two weeks ago, it was put in...
I recently had the 9C2 Emissions recall update performed...
I recently had the 9C2 Emissions recall update performed on my car, and since the update my car drives like total garbage after a cold start. It hesitates...
Showing 8 of 375 complaints. View all on NHTSA →
Maintenance Schedule
Current
Oil & Filter Change
Every 7,500 mi
Hyundai recommended interval
Due Now
Air Filter (Engine)
Every 15,000–30,000 mi
Dirty filter reduces fuel economy by up to 10%
Due Now
Cabin Air Filter
Every 15,000–25,000 mi
Affects AC, heat, and air quality
Due Soon
Tire Rotation
Every 5,000–7,500 mi
Extends tire life by 25–40%
Due Soon
Brake Inspection
Every 12 months or 15,000 mi
Brake pads typically last 30,000–70,000 mi depending on driving
Due Now
Spark Plugs
Every 30,000–100,000 mi
Copper plugs every 30k; iridium/platinum every 60–100k
Due Now
Coolant Flush
Every 30,000 mi or 5 years
Old coolant becomes acidic and damages the cooling system
Due Now
Transmission Fluid
Every 30,000–60,000 mi
Neglected fluid leads to expensive transmission repairs
Due Now
Brake Fluid Flush
Every 2 years
Brake fluid absorbs moisture, lowering boiling point
Due Now
Battery Test
Every 3–5 years
12V batteries typically last 3–5 years
Due Now
Drive Belt Inspection
Every 60,000–100,000 mi
Serpentine belt failure leaves you stranded
Due Now
Timing Belt/Chain Service
Every 60,000–105,000 mi (belt) or per manufacturer schedule (chain)
CRITICAL if belt-equipped — timing belt failure destroys engine. Confirm whether this engine uses a belt or chain (chains typically don't require scheduled replacement) before assuming this interval applies.
This schedule is a general reference based on make, model year, and powertrain. Always follow your owner's manual for exact intervals.
Additional Tools & Information
Estimated depreciation for this 2018 HYUNDAI Sonata based on vehicle class and age. These are projections from today’s general estimate, not past sale prices. Verify with KBB or Edmunds for mileage-adjusted value.
Now
$10,200
+1 yr
$9,000
-12%
+2 yr
$8,000
-22%
+3 yr
$6,900
-32%
Estimates based on vehicle class averages. Actual values vary by mileage, condition, and location.
Estimated annual cost to own this vehicle at average U.S. driving conditions.
Insurance
$1,270/yr
21%
Maintenance
$1,500/yr
24%
Fuel/Energy
$2,050/yr
33%
Depreciation
$1,080/yr
18%
Registration
$250/yr
4%
Estimated Total Annual Cost
$6,150/yr
National averages. Registration varies by state. Does not include parking, tolls, or loan interest.
7.6
/ 10
Rank #8 overall
32 issues / 100 vehicles
Hyundai Reliability
Hyundai has improved dramatically since 2010. The Theta II engine recall (GDI engines) was a notable concern on some models.
General editorial reference for this manufacturer, not a live or VIN-specific measurement — see the sources below for detailed, current data.
Use this checklist to track which recalls have been resolved. All recall repairs are free at authorized dealerships.
Jun 8, 2021
Vehicles in a similar class to the 2018 HYUNDAI Sonata:
This vehicle is older, so current-market prices for these alternatives wouldn't be a fair comparison — research period-correct pricing for each instead.
Private Party
$7,400–$11,000
No warranty · Lower price · Inspect first
Dealer (Used)
$8,800–$13,200
Some warranty · Financing available
CPO / Certified
$9,100–$13,800
Manufacturer-backed limited warranty · Inspected · Best protection
Negotiation tip:
This vehicle model has 1 recall campaign on file. Use this as leverage — ask the seller to confirm this specific VIN's recalls are resolved, or reduce the price accordingly. Unresolved recalls cost dealers time and money to fix.
Automated checks against common VIN fraud indicators. Always verify with a paid history report and independent inspection.
✓
Check digit (position 9) validates
✓
VIN is exactly 17 characters
✓
No invalid characters (I, O, Q not present)
✓
Year position (pos 10) matches decoded model year
✓
Manufacturer decodes to a known brand
✓
Not a repeated-character test/placeholder VIN
Manual checks to do in person: Compare the VIN on the dashboard (visible through windshield), driver door jamb sticker, engine block, and title — all must match exactly. A cloned or re-VINed vehicle will show inconsistencies.
⚠ Always check the tire placard on the driver door jamb for the exact manufacturer-specified PSI for your vehicle.
Front Tires
32 PSI (typical)
See door jamb
Rear Tires
32 PSI (typical)
See door jamb
Spare Tire
60 PSI (typical)
Check monthly
Rotation Pattern Guide
FWD: Front to rear straight, rear cross to front
RWD: Rear to front straight, front cross to rear
AWD/4WD: Full X-pattern every 5,000–7,500 mi
Staggered: Side-to-side only if non-directional tires
Recommended rotation interval: every 5,000–7,500 miles. Rotate with every other oil change for best results.
❄ Winter Prep
✓ Check antifreeze concentration (minimum -34°F protection)
✓ Test battery — cold temps reduce capacity 30–60%
✓ Verify tire tread depth (4/32" minimum for snow traction)
✓ Consider winter tires if driving in snow or ice regions
✓ Replace wiper blades and refill washer fluid (-20°F rated)
✓ Test heater, front/rear defroster, and heated seats if equipped
✓ Inspect fuel lines and check for water in fuel system
☀ Summer Prep
✓ Check coolant level and test radiator cap pressure seal
✓ Inspect serpentine belt for cracking or glazing
✓ Test A/C system output and replace cabin air filter if needed
✓ Check tire pressure — heat increases PSI (recheck cold in a.m.)
✓ Inspect brake pads and rotors before summer road trips
✓ Check transmission fluid color and level
✓ Top off all fluids: brake, power steering, coolant, washer
Original Hyundai Factory Warranty
Basic / Bumper-to-Bumper
5yr/60k
Has likely ended
Powertrain
10yr/100k
May still be covered
Corrosion / Rust
7yr/unlimited
Has likely ended
Estimated from the model year only. Factory coverage runs from the vehicle's original sale date, which this report can't confirm, and mileage limits can end coverage sooner. Verify remaining coverage with a Hyundai dealer using the VIN.
Third-Party Extended Warranty Options
CARCHEX
Get Quote →
A+ BBB-rated. 6 plan tiers, up to 500k miles.
Endurance
Get Quote →
Direct-pay at any ASE-certified mechanic.
AUTOPOM!
Get Quote →
Month-to-month plans, high-mileage coverage.
Estimate total fuel cost and stops for any road trip in this 2018 HYUNDAI Sonata.
Steps to get the best price when selling this 2018 HYUNDAI Sonata:
📄 Service records
Buyers pay more for documented maintenance history. Even basic oil change receipts add value.
🔍 Resolve all recalls
Unresolved recalls suppress resale value and are easy objections for buyers. Fix them free at any dealership.
🚗 Professional detail
A full detail ($150–$300) typically returns $500–$1,500 in perceived value, especially on dark-colored vehicles.
📷 Photograph in good light
Listings with 20+ high-quality daylight photos get 3x more inquiries than listings with poor photos.
🗂 Vehicle history report link
Proactively share a VIN Pro Plus or Carfax report link to build instant buyer confidence.
🔍 Price using real comps
Search AutoTrader and CarGurus for same year/make/model/trim within 100 miles. Price within 5% of the median.
⚠ Check recall status first
This vehicle model has 1 recall campaign on file. Confirming this specific VIN's recalls are resolved before listing typically increases sale price by more than the time spent.
⚠ Known Issue — 2018 HYUNDAI Sonata
Same engine concern. Also: transmission hesitation reported in stop-and-go traffic.
NHTSA offers free recall alerts by VIN. Sign up to be notified the moment a new recall is issued for this vehicle.
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VIN 5NPE34AF5JH186159:
1 recall campaign currently on file. Sign up to track when they are resolved.
Get competing insurance quotes for this exact vehicle. Rates vary by 30–60% between carriers for the same driver profile — comparing saves real money.
Estimated national average for this vehicle: $1,270/year. Your actual rate depends on your driving record, location, age, and coverage level.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does VIN 5NPE34AF5JH186159 decode to?
VIN 5NPE34AF5JH186159 decodes to a 2018 HYUNDAI Sonata SEL, SEL w/ Tech, Limited, Limited w/ Ultimate, Sport ,Sport 2.0T, Limited 2.0T, assembled in MONTGOMERY, ALABAMA, UNITED STATES (USA).
How many recalls does this 2018 HYUNDAI Sonata have?
NHTSA shows 1 recall campaign associated with the 2018 HYUNDAI Sonata. This reflects campaigns issued for this model/year — it does not confirm whether this specific VIN's repairs have already been completed. Contact a HYUNDAI dealer with this VIN to check.
Is it safe to buy a 2018 HYUNDAI Sonata with recall campaigns on file?
A recall campaign doesn't necessarily mean the vehicle is unsafe to drive, but any unresolved recall should be addressed promptly. Contact a HYUNDAI dealer with this VIN to confirm which specific recalls apply and whether they've already been completed — repairs are always free of charge.
What is the estimated value of this 2018 HYUNDAI Sonata?
Based on vehicle age, body type, trim level, and U.S. market data, this 2018 HYUNDAI Sonata SEL, SEL w/ Tech, Limited, Limited w/ Ultimate, Sport ,Sport 2.0T, Limited 2.0T is estimated at $8,400–$12,000. Verify with Kelley Blue Book or Edmunds for a precise appraisal based on mileage and condition.
Is this VIN check really free?
Yes — the core VIN check on VinForFree is free with no signup required. All data is sourced from public records including NHTSA, the EPA, and official government databases.
What fuel economy does a 2018 HYUNDAI Sonata get?
According to EPA data, the 2018 HYUNDAI Sonata gets approximately 31 MPG combined (28 city / 37 highway). Estimated annual fuel cost is $2,050.
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