Two problems related to engine grinding noise have been reported for the 2012 Hyundai Elantra. The most recently reported issues are listed below. Please also check out the statistics and reliability analysis of the 2012 Hyundai Elantra based on all problems reported for the 2012 Elantra.
Motor ticks very loud uses a quart and a half of oil every 500 miles is not leaking it out but burning it occasionally makes a grinding noise and doesn't want to start.
Intermittent engine ignition failure. Engine does not start when gear shift is in park and key is properly inserted and turned. Grinding noise and engine does not start. Problem occurs up to five times per week upon attempting to start the car. The issue began in April 2018 and is ongoing on a weekly basis. The defect has resulted in unreliable transportation. I replaced the ignition coils and ignition plate was cleaned. Problem was not resolved. Mechanic cannot identify the defect. Similar issues have been reported with Hyundai sonatas, resulting in a recall. Many complaints about intermittent Hyundai Elantra 2012 ignition failure can be found online.