2021 HYUNDAI SONATA Limited

This 2021 Hyundai Sonata is listed with a salvage title and an auction primary-damage classification of “REAR END.” Stage 1 reports that the visible severe rear damage supports the stated rear-end classification; however, the salvage-title status cannot be confirmed from exterior photographs. The rear bumper cover is severely deformed and displaced from the body, with separation at the right rear corner. A red lower bumper lamp or reflector is separated from its mounting area and hanging below the bumper. The left rear quarter panel is crushed and heavily creased around the wheel arch, with torn outer sections and exposed inner areas. The rear bumper cover also has large creases and torn sections, is pulled away from the body at the left rear corner, and is detached along the lower rear area. These repairs may require replacement of damaged bumper and quarter-panel components, inspection of mounting points and adjacent structure, and verification of the rear lighting and related systems. The steering-wheel rim has minor cosmetic wear, with glossy worn areas along the upper and side sections. The instrument display shows a “Check Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist system” message along with ABS, brake, traction-control, and other warning indicators. The underlying cause and actual operation of these systems cannot be established from the available findings. A complete diagnostic scan and inspection of the braking, stability-control, wheel-speed-sensor, and driver-assistance systems are recommended before purchase or road use. According to the VIN decode, this is a front-wheel-drive sedan with a gasoline 1.6-liter T-GDI Gamma II turbocharged engine and an eight-speed automatic transmission. The vehicle is identified as a Limited trim and was manufactured by Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Alabama in the United States. NHTSA records list recalls for certain 2021 Sonata vehicles involving the fuel system, windshield bonding, automatic transmission fail-safe operation, and fuel-tank/check-valve concerns. The listed fuel-pipe recall applies to vehicles equipped with 2.5-liter turbocharged engines, while this VIN decode identifies a 1.6-liter engine, so applicability should be verified by VIN with Hyundai or an authorized dealer. Recall completion status and applicability of the other listed campaigns should also be confirmed before purchase.