Keeping your 2017 Hyundai Sonata running smoothly for years to come hinges on a few simple but critical maintenance habits, and at the very top of that list is using the correct oil. It is the lifeblood of your car’s engine, reducing friction, dissipating heat, and keeping internal components clean. With so many options on the shelf, figuring out the right choice can feel confusing, but it does not have to be. Getting the 2017 Hyundai Sonata Oil Type and Viscosity right is one of the easiest and most impactful ways to protect your investment.
Using the wrong oil can lead to reduced fuel economy, increased engine wear, and even potential damage over the long term. The good news is that Hyundai provides very clear guidelines for what your car needs. Whether you are a seasoned DIYer or a new Sonata owner just trying to make sense of your owner’s manual, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about selecting the perfect oil for your vehicle’s engine, ensuring it continues to deliver the reliable performance you expect.
What Oil Does a 2017 Hyundai Sonata Need?
For most 2017 Hyundai Sonata models, the recommended oil is SAE 5W-20. This is a full-synthetic oil that provides excellent protection across a wide range of temperatures. The “5W” indicates the oil’s viscosity (or thickness) in cold weather (the “W” stands for winter), allowing it to flow easily for quick engine start-up and lubrication. The “20” refers to its viscosity at the engine’s normal operating temperature, providing a protective film that is not too thick, which helps with fuel efficiency.
It is crucial to use an oil that meets the performance standard specified by Hyundai. Look for oils that carry the API (American Petroleum Institute) SN Plus or newer certification on the bottle. This certification is designed to provide better protection against low-speed pre-ignition, which is important for modern, turbocharged engines. While the 2017 Sonata’s standard 2.4L GDI and optional 2.0L Turbo engines both perform best with full-synthetic 5W-20, it is always a good idea to double-check your specific owner’s manual, as recommendations can sometimes vary based on the model year and engine option.
Why the Correct 2017 Hyundai Sonata Oil Type and Viscosity Matters
You might wonder why such a specific grade is so important. Think of motor oil as the engine’s constant guardian. The correct 5W-20 viscosity is engineered to work in harmony with your Sonata’s precise engine tolerances. If an oil is too thick (like a 10W-30), it will not circulate as quickly on a cold morning, leading to increased wear during start-up. If it is too thin, it might not maintain a sufficient protective layer at high operating temperatures, potentially leading to increased friction and engine damage.
Sticking with full-synthetic oil also offers significant advantages over conventional blends. Synthetic oil is chemically engineered to be more stable, resist breakdown under high heat, and flow better at low temperatures. This translates to better overall engine protection, improved performance in extreme weather, and potentially longer intervals between oil changes. For a car you plan to keep for the long haul, the extra investment in full-synthetic oil is well worth it.
A Step-by-Step Guide to Checking and Adding Oil
Even if you are not planning a full oil change yourself, knowing how to check your oil level is an essential skill for any car owner. It is a simple process that only takes a few minutes and can alert you to potential problems before they become serious.
First, ensure your car is parked on a level surface and the engine has been off for at least 5-10 minutes, allowing the oil to drain back into the pan. Pop the hood and locate the dipstick, which usually has a bright yellow or orange handle labeled “Engine Oil.” Pull the dipstick out completely, wipe it clean with a paper towel or rag, and then fully re-insert it. Pull it out again and now look at the oil level. You will see two marks—the oil level should be between the “F” (Full) and “L” (Low) indicators. If the level is at or below the “L” mark, you will need to add oil.
To add oil, find the oil filler cap on top of the engine. It is typically labeled “Engine Oil.” Unscrew the cap and, using a funnel, add a small amount of the recommended 5W-20 full-synthetic oil. Wait a moment for it to settle, then recheck the dipstick. Add more oil slowly, checking frequently, until the level reaches the “F” mark. Be careful not to overfill, as this can cause its own set of problems. Once done, securely screw the filler cap back on.
Choosing the Best Oil Brand and When to Change It
When faced with a wall of oil brands at the auto parts store, the best approach is to choose a major brand that you trust and that meets the API SN Plus (or newer) standard. Brands like Mobil 1, Pennzoil Platinum, Valvoline Modern Engine, and Castrol EDGE are all excellent full-synthetic options that will keep your Sonata’s engine in top shape.
As for the oil change interval, Hyundai recommends changing the oil in your 2017 Sonata every 7,500 miles under normal driving conditions. However, if you frequently take short trips, drive in extreme heat or cold, or often find yourself in stop-and-go traffic, it is wise to shorten that interval to every 5,000 miles. Your car’s “Maintenance Required” light is also a helpful reminder, but it is best used as a backup to keeping track of your mileage. Consistent, timely oil changes are the single most effective way to ensure your engine’s longevity.
Final Tips for Optimal Engine Health
Do not forget about the oil filter! Always replace the oil filter with every oil change. A high-quality filter is essential for trapping contaminants and keeping the new oil clean. It is a small component that plays a huge role. Also, make sure you or your mechanic properly disposes of the used oil and filter at a certified recycling center—it is the responsible and environmentally friendly thing to do.
In summary, giving your 2017 Hyundai Sonata the right care is straightforward. By using full-synthetic SAE 5W-20 oil that meets the API SN Plus standard, changing it and the filter regularly, and keeping a simple eye on the oil level between changes, you are providing the foundation for hundreds of thousands of miles of reliable and efficient driving. Your Sonata will thank you for it.