No one wants to hear the dreaded sound of the engine turning over but not starting up. There are many reasons your vehicle may not start like it’s supposed to, and a faulty alternator is one of them.
Your Hyundai Sonata’s alternator helps to ensure that your vehicle will start when you need it to, keeps your battery charged, and powers your electrical system while the car is running.
A new alternator for a Hyundai Sonata costs between $50 and $300, depending on your vehicle’s specifications and which type or brand of alternator that you purchase, and whether it’s new, remanufactured, OEM, or aftermarket. Having it replaced professionally usually costs between $450 and $900.
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How Much is a New Alternator for a Hyundai Sonata?
You may be able to find a replacement alternator for your Hyundai Sonata for as cheap as $30 to $50, depending on which one you purchase and its condition.
You can find used alternators on eBay or other online retailers, or you could visit a junkyard or salvage yard for a usable part.
However, in most cases, you can find a new alternator for a reasonable price, especially if you purchase a good quality aftermarket model. The final price will depend on your vehicle’s year and specifications and where you purchase it from.
For example, a genuine Hyundai brand alternator (the same as what’s used in the factory) would be the most expensive option. These are priced on eBay for up to $1,100.
On the other hand, you can find a compatible alternator that fits your vehicle at an auto parts retailer for as little as $50 to $150.
Replacement Alternator for Hyundai Sonata
| Advance Auto Parts | $108 – $550 |
| AutoZone | $115 – $350 |
| Parts Geek | $50 – $300 |
| Amazon | $50 – $350 |
| eBay | $30 – $1,100 |
In some cases, you can purchase a higher quality or OEM part that’s been remanufactured for a much lower price than you’d find if you bought the same part brand new.
Remanufactured vehicle components are like new in that they’re assembled in a factory setting with new components, but they use an existing core.
These typically come with the same kind of warranty that you’d get with a brand new part, so they’re usually a better option than purchasing something used.
For example, a remanufactured Remy brand alternator from an online retailer is priced around $75. The original manufacturer was Mitsubishi.
In this case, the core from an OEM part was taken apart and reassembled like new in a factory setting to create a brand new alternator using the OEM core and a few aftermarket components.
In these situations, you can get a part that’s comparable to the OEM equipment, but at a much lower price point.
Hyundai Sonata Alternator Replacement
Most people end up having their alternator replaced professionally, because when their car won’t start they bring it to the shop. The average cost to have the alternator replaced in a Hyundai Sonata is around $550.
However, the actual price may be higher or lower depending on your specific vehicle, where you take it, and your geographic location. Labor charges vary by area and by garage, and the parts cost depends on what kind of alternator the shop orders and where it comes from.
The labor cost to replace your alternator is usually between $114 and $150, so not too expensive. Alternator replacements are fairly common and most garages can do them in less than an hour.
Let’s take a look at some sample prices for an alternator replacement as reported by various Hyundai Sonata owners.
| Sample Vehicle Specs / Mileage | Sample Location | Sample Price |
| 2005 2.7L V6 / 140k | Oceanside, CA | $860 – $1,065 |
| 2001 2.4L L4 / 110k | Denton, TX | $515 – $640 |
| 2013 2.4L L4 / 58k | Stafford, TX | $450 – $560 |
| 2011 2.4L L4 / 143k | Riverside, CA | $160 – $200 |
| 2013 2.4L L4 / 144k | Elk Grove, CA | $465 – $575 |
| 2013 2.4L L4 / 145k | Elk Grove, CA | $465 – $575 |
| 2009 2.4 L L4 / 156k | Wilsonville, OR | $490 – $605 |
| 2013 2.4L L4 / 108k | San Diego, CA | $465 – $575 |
| 2015 2.0L L4 Turbo / 95k | Houston, TX | $585 – $720 |
| 2003 2.7L V6 / 197k | Phoenix, AZ | $350 – $430 |
The good news is the price to replace an alternator in a Hyundai Sonata is similar to the average price to replace an alternator in any car, which is typically between $500 and $900. Of course, the cost may vary depending on your specific vehicle and if any other repair work is needed.
Diagnosing an Alternator Problem in Your Hyundai Sonata
There are many things that can cause your car to not start or for electronics to not work properly, but oftentimes these issues can be attributed to the alternator or battery. Let’s take a look at some of the most common signs and symptoms you may experience if your alternator is going bad.
Vehicle won’t start
If you turn your key and the vehicle won’t start, it could be a sign that your alternator is bad. When your car is turned “off,” it needs a power boost to start it up.
If the alternator isn’t recharging your battery like it’s supposed to, the car will only start and run for as long as the battery retains its charge. Once it runs out of juice, the vehicle won’t start.
Hard starting
If your car does start, but it takes several attempts or you frequently have trouble getting the car to start, it’s possible that the alternator isn’t working properly to keep the battery charged.
Vehicle stalls
While alternator problems usually cause trouble when trying to start the car, in some cases it can cause stalling even after the car is started.
Lights are too bright or too dim
If you notice that your lights are much dimmer than normal, it could mean that the alternator isn’t sending enough power to the electrical units.
Similarly, if they’re too bright it could mean that the alternator is sending too much power. Either way, it’s a sign of potential alternator issues.
Whining or grinding sound
If you hear a whining sound from under the hood, it could mean that the alternator is failing. This will only occur when the engine is running.
You may also notice a grinding sound that changes as you speed up and slow down, which could mean that your alternator’s bearing has failed.
Check engine light
Of course, the dread ‘check engine’ indicator light could mean any number of problems, but an alternator could be one cause. A computer diagnostic will let you know what triggered the light. If the diagnostic returns codes P2502, P2504, or P2503, these are definitely alternator problems.
Battery warning light
If your battery warning light illuminates while you’re driving, it usually indicates a problem with your alternator.
Battery won’t hold a charge
If a jump-start gets your vehicle to crank up but the battery won’t seem to hold a charge, it could mean your alternator is bad.
Take your vehicle to an auto parts shop that does free battery testing and have them check your battery. If the battery is good, then you’ll know for sure it’s the alternator.
Other problems you may notice include flickering lights, problems with your electrical components like power windows, power locks, or radio, or issues with your air conditioner. If you notice your dashboard lights flickering or if they look too dim, it could also mean your alternator is going bad.
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The Bottom Line
An alternator problem isn’t something you can ignore. Eventually, a failed alternator will cause your vehicle to lose power completely or not start when you need it to. It’s best to have the alternator replaced before you’re stranded somewhere.
A new alternator may cost anywhere from $50 to several hundred, but in most cases, you can find one for under $300, depending on your vehicle’s year and specifications.
Some people can change the alternator themselves, which means you’ll only have to pay for the parts. However, the labor isn’t too expensive, so many owners take their Hyundai to the shop to have the work done. Taking it to a local garage or chain auto shop will be less expensive than going to the dealership.
You may be able to save some money on the labor by doing any other small repair work or maintenance at the same time. If your battery is nearing its end of life or you need an oil change, doing it at the same time as your alternator replacement will save you on extra labor charges later on.
Some shops offer discounts for AAA members, military service members, senior citizens, or even students. It never hurts to ask. We always recommend getting a few different quotes from different shops to ensure you’re getting a fair estimate. Always ask how much the parts cost is and how much they’re charging per hour for labor.
Depending on what kind of alternator your vehicle uses, there may also be a refundable core charge if they send the old one back to the manufacturer. Always ask what they’re going to do with the old part.If they’re sending it back for any kind of credit or rebate, make sure those savings are being passed along to you, since you’re the one paying for the part.
