How to Replace the Oil Pan Gasket in a Hyundai Sonata

If you notice an unsightly puddle of oil under the engine of your Hyundai Sonata, it may be an indication of a worn oil pan gasket. With a little mechanical know-how, you can save money and change the oil pan gasket yourself. Here's how to change the gasket in a 1998 to 2004 model Hyundai Sonata.

Difficulty: ModerateInstructionsThings You'll Need:

Oil filter removal tool
Socket wrench
Bucket
Clean shop rags
Solvent
Liquid sealer
Torque wrench
5 qt. motor oil

Step 1
Locate the vehicle on a level surface and put the gears in park. Crawl under the vehicle, and using an oil filter removal tool, remove the oil filter. Clean around the filter.
Step 2
Remove the plug on the bottom of the oil pan with a socket wrench and allow the oil to drain into a bucket. Reattach the plug.
Step 3
Disconnect the negative battery cable and remove the engine splash shield, front exhaust pipe and timing belt. Remove the bolts holding the oil pan and remove the pan.
Step 4
Scrape off the old oil pan gasket, being sure that it is completely removed so that the new gasket will seal. Wipe out the inside of the pan with a clean rag and wipe the joining surface of the oil pan with solvent.
Step 5
Apply a 1/8-inch bead of liquid sealer along the oil pan groove and quickly replace the oil pan before the sealer has a chance to set up. Reattach the bolts. Torque the oil pan bolts on your Sontata to 48 to 72 inch lbs.
Step 6
Reattach the front exhaust pipe, timing belt and engine splash shield and reattach the negative battery cable.
Step 7
Refill the engine with fresh oil. Your Hyundai Sonata requires between 4 and 5 qt. of oil. Check with the dipstick to be sure you've added the correct amount and adjust if necessary.