December 2, 2024:
My Sonata was making this clicking - GT
December 2, 2024:
My Sonata was making this clicking sound (coming form the steering column) when I turned left and right and rattled quite a bit as you drove the car as well. When I researched that noise I found out that Hyundai cars made in the 2011-2014 range have had issues with the steering wheel coupler. So I brought it to the dealership as the mechanics I spoke to recommended.
We paid $150 for a diagnostic. I do not believe they touched that car to be honest. They recorded a 20s video with the hood open to justify the $4000 bill they were ready to send our way. Here it is:
- Replace MDPS assembly and break away bolt: $2427.68
- Flush automatic transmission: $413.03
- Perform brake fluid flush: $195.67
- Cooling system flush: $197.14
- Replace spark plugs: $266.72
- Replace hood shocks: $394.18
I wanted to give them the benefit of the doubt and I asked them: "Does the noise have anything to do with the steering wheel coupler? I heard many of these cars had issues with that before and it is supposed to be fairly simple to fix it from what I have heard". They said: "I hear you but no, the entire part has to be replaced"
My wife went to pick up the car and she said that a kid (mechanic) showed up. She asked how do they know what the problem is. They said that the noise it makes, for sure they need to replace the MDPS. She asked "how do you know? we brought this car to other mechanics and they did not know" He stumbled and then said "they were experts".
The truth is simple. They could have fixed with a $300 service and replacing a $15 part. But that is not what dealerships do. They will take every penny you have (or don't) whether you need the service or not. Whether is the truth or not. At that, Southtown Hyundai, you really are experts!!
I went ahead and spoke to another mechanic. He charged me $300 to replace the steering wheel coupler that costs $15 and … boom! Problem solved!!
My question is a simple one... do they have any decency left or as long as they are making money and screwing everyone else, it is all good? Is that even legal? Because others are ignorant on the subject, are they allowed to lie to you to steal from you? It has to be illegal. If not illegal, it is definitely immoral.
With that said...unless you have so much money that you do not know the difference between $5 and $5000, please do your service with Southtown Hyundai. If you value your money, please go elsewhere and do not allow this type of scheme continue. This is ridiculous!
By the way, the name I clicked on here has nothing to do with the experience I had with the dealership, this website will not allow me to post unless I clicked on a name. That is why. The problem I had was with the service department and their dishonesty.
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