2011–2014 YF (6th generation)
2011–2014 Hyundai Sonata Fluid Types and Capacities
Which transmission fluid, coolant, and brake fluid the 2011–2014 Hyundai Sonata takes, with capacities and the specifications each one has to meet. Transmission: Hyundai/SK ATF SP-IV (6-speed automatic); sealed on most trims, no routine dipstick check. Coolant: Hyundai Long Life Coolant (silicate-free); capacity not independently confirmed this session.
Last verified
2011–2014 Hyundai Sonata fluid guide
Check your manual| System | Fluid type & capacity |
|---|---|
| Coolant | Hyundai Long Life Coolant (silicate-free); capacity not independently confirmed this session |
| Transmission | Hyundai/SK ATF SP-IV (6-speed automatic); sealed on most trims, no routine dipstick check |
| Brake fluid | DOT 3 brake fluid |
| Power steering | Electric power steering on most trims (no fluid) |
Plain washer fluid; no special spec
Which Hyundai Sonata model years does this cover?
These fluids specifications apply to every Hyundai Sonata built from 2011 through 2014 — the YF (6th generation), mid-size sedan. Nothing in this specification changes between those model years. Pick your year for the engines it offered, what changed that year, and the problems recorded against it.
What changed during the 2011–2014 Hyundai Sonata
- 2011Generation launch (US sales began in 2010 for MY2011); Sonata Hybrid joins the lineup
- 2012–2014Mid-cycle facelift, Korean-built cars refreshed in 2012, North American-built cars in late 2013 for MY2014
- 2013Minor feature reshuffling among trims; the base GLS model's manual transmission is discontinued
- 2014North American-built Sonatas receive the mid-cycle refresh previewed on Korean-built cars in 2012 (new grille, LED-accented lighting, revised wheels); first US-built model year with the facelifted styling
2011–2014 Hyundai Sonata fluids: common questions
What transmission fluid does a 2011–2014 Hyundai Sonata take?
- Hyundai/SK ATF SP-IV (6-speed automatic); sealed on most trims, no routine dipstick check. Transmission fluid specifications are not interchangeable. Friction modifiers differ between them, and the wrong fluid causes shudder long before it causes failure.
What coolant does a 2011–2014 Hyundai Sonata use?
- Hyundai Long Life Coolant (silicate-free); capacity not independently confirmed this session.
What brake fluid does a 2011–2014 Hyundai Sonata take?
- DOT 3 brake fluid.
Sources
- NHTSA, 15V-568 recall report (Theta II connecting rod bearing)
- NHTSA, 17V-226 recall notice (expanded Theta II campaign)
- NHTSA, Hyundai consent order, Nov. 2020 (Theta II engine warranty extension)
- NHTSA press release, consent orders with Hyundai and Kia over Theta II recalls
- Hyundai, Campaign 966 (Knock Sensor Detection System / powertrain extended warranty)
- NHTSA, 23V-651 recall report (ABS module fire risk, Sonata Hybrid)
- NHTSA press release, Kia and Hyundai 'park outside' fire-risk recall
- AMSoil lookup, 2013 Sonata 2.0T oil viscosity/capacity
- Goodyear, 2013 Sonata factory tire fitments by trim
- US News, 2012 Sonata 2.4L Limited specs (fuel tank, EPA mpg)
