2021 HYUNDAI SONATA SE

The vehicle is listed by the auction with a salvage title and “flood damage” as the primary damage classification. This is an unverified auction claim. Stage 1’s photo review found no horizontal exterior tide line, waterline staining, mud or silt residue, visible corrosion, mold-like discoloration, or corroded wiring/connectors. Localized seat-fabric discoloration was visible, but no clear water-related pattern was identified. The available photos therefore do not visibly support the stated flood-damage claim. The documented visible damage is cosmetic and minor. Several localized dark discoloration marks are present on the light-colored rear seat lower cushion. A localized light-brown discoloration is also visible on the front passenger seat lower cushion. Stage 1 additionally reported that the instrument cluster displays multiple warning indicators and a service-required message, although the LCD screen appears normal. The cause and significance of these warnings cannot be determined from the provided findings and should be checked before purchase. VIN decoding identifies this vehicle as a 2021 Hyundai Sonata SE sedan with front-wheel drive, a 2.5-liter gasoline GDI Theta III engine, and an eight-speed automatic transmission. It was manufactured by Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Alabama in the United States. The supplied recall records include several campaigns applicable to certain 2021 Sonata vehicles. Recall 21V00M000 concerns improper windshield bonding, which could allow the windshield to detach in a crash. Recall 22V746000 concerns automatic-transmission oil-pump-related loss of drive power and may require transmission inspection or replacement and software updates. Recall 25V796000 concerns a fuel-tank check valve that may allow the tank to contact hot exhaust components, potentially causing melting and a fuel leak; the remedy includes inspection, possible replacement, and software updates. Recall 21V524000 applies to Sonatas equipped with 2.5-liter turbocharged engines; the supplied VIN decode does not identify turbocharging, so applicability should be confirmed by VIN with Hyundai or NHTSA. Recall completion status is not provided, and all outstanding campaigns should be verified before purchase.