general problems of the 2020 Hyundai Elantra - part 1

74 problems related to engine and engine cooling have been reported for the 2020 Hyundai Elantra. The most recently reported issues are listed below. Please also check out the statistics and reliability analysis of the 2020 Hyundai Elantra based on all problems reported for the 2020 Elantra.

1 Engine And Engine Cooling problem

Failure Date: 12/10/2025

My engine started to make a horrible noise and the car won’t start anymore. Hyundai engines are known to burn oil and don’t light the low oil dash light until it is too late. Other Elantra trims have a recall for Hyundai to fix this yet mine does not.

2 Engine And Engine Cooling problem

Failure Date: 10/26/2025

Cruise control on 55mph, car has slowed down going straight no uphill or downhill and accelerator did not work nothing blocking the accelerator. Had to pull over to a shoulder to shut engine off and on to drive. Tapping cruise control up to speed up in regulated area such as from 55 to a 65mph zone. . Cruise control speed lowered. Attempting to speed up with accelerator still only slowing down. 3 times this year I had to change spark plugs within a 6 month period error code p0302. Replaced battery alongside. Continues p0302 code. Replaced all coils and spark plugs still p0302. Climbing uphill vehicle sometimes looses power that happened twice in 2025 and twice in 2022. 3 times in 2024. That I must turn on hazards and floor the accelerator to gain speed on up hills in neighborhoods going 25 mph. I have dropped to 10 mph. I get oil change regularly. Always when due. Every few months I make sure to get a full car inspection to make sure everything is in proper working order.

3 Engine And Engine Cooling problem

Failure Date: 10/08/2025

The vehicle is burning the engine oil. I get regular oil changes on time. I was told by the service center I had low oil at an oil change. It was changed and then again it a few months later I burned through the oil again. I checked it and there was very little oil. There is no leak. It is just burning it.

4 Engine And Engine Cooling problem

Failure Date: 09/20/2025

2020 Elantra built in alabama with 2. 0l engine has p0016 code and severe oil sludge at 73k miles - identical to recall 21v301 symptoms but excluded because manufactured in alabama not korea. This appears to be the same defect affecting a different production batch.

5 Engine And Engine Cooling problem

Failure Date: 09/08/2025

Engine blew up on the highway almost causing an accident. The car has had problems with rapid oil consumption since 20000 miles on the car. Always checked oil everyday and added oil when needed and regular oil changes every 3000 miles car was very well taken care of. No oil light or check engine light came on when the engine blew up.

6 Engine And Engine Cooling problem

Failure Date: 09/05/2025

I am writing to formally file a safety complaint regarding my 2020 Hyundai Elantra. I recently learned that Hyundai issued a recall related to a defect that poses a risk of engine fires in certain vehicles. However, my vehicle, which has exhibited the same dangerous symptoms, was not included in this recall campaign. Specifically, my vehicle has experienced a critical error relating to a defect included in NHTSA recall #21v-301, which I understand is directly related to the safety defect identified in Hyundai’s recall. Despite this, I have not received a recall notice, and Hyundai has declined to provide repair coverage under the recall. This raises serious concerns for my safety, the safety of my passengers, and the public. A defect that can cause an engine fire should not be limited to specific VIN ranges if the underlying issue is present in additional vehicles like mine. I respectfully request that NHTSA investigate this matter and ensure Hyundai expands the recall to include affected vehicles such as mine. If Hyundai continues to exclude vehicles with the same defect, I believe this could warrant further legal and consumer protection actions, including potential class action litigation. Please find my vehicle information below: 2020 Hyundai Elantra VIN: 5npd74lf1lh538038 mileage: 51,000 thank you for your time and attention to this urgent safety concern. I look forward to your response and am willing to provide additional documentation, repair invoices, or photographs as needed. Sincerely, alexis beliveau.

7 Engine And Engine Cooling problem

Failure Date: 07/21/2025

At around the 120k mile odometer reading check engine light came on and upon checking the oil, noticed it was 1/2 qt. Down in spite of a recent oil change. There were no other issues apparent to our mechanic. At the next oil change, we asked the techs to be sure to tighten the oil pan and all components as we mentioned the drop in oil after the previous oil change. This time, only 10 days after the oil change (we have been using hybrid blend since purchasing the vehicle new), the check engine light went on again and the oil was down a quart with no signs of leaking. Our mechanic checked it again and told us of many Hyundai oil consumption issues and suggested we check for a recall. My vehicle was not included in the oil consumption recall despite having the same year, model and engine as many of the other "certain" vehicles. We are currently negotiating a solution with Hyundai motor corp.

8 Engine And Engine Cooling problem

Failure Date: 07/20/2025

I have taken my car in twice due to my car braking when there is not a vehicle and or object in front of me but there are vehicles right behind me that have to brake but crain denies that there are any issues. My engine light came on a couple of weeks ago and I took it to auto zone to have a diagnostic test done. The report states that it has something wrong with the transmission/transmission line and or fluid. When I looked it up online it stated that there are recalls on engine pistons that could cause the diagnostic test to read that it's the transmission. My car is a 2020 Hyundai Elantra value edition but according to your website, there are no recalls!?.

9 Engine And Engine Cooling problem

Failure Date: 07/10/2025

Spun bearing in engine. All service on vehicle up to date.

10 Engine And Engine Cooling problem

Failure Date: 06/24/2025

The contact owns a 2020 Hyundai Elantra. The contact stated that while attempting to turn at approximately 5 mph, the traction control warning light illuminated. The contact pulled over to the shoulder of the road and restarted the vehicle; however, the vehicle failed to accelerate as intended while the accelerator pedal was depressed. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was towed to a local independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed with excessive oil consumption, catalytic converter failure, and related the failure to NHTSA campaign number: 21v301000 (engine). The local dealer was contacted however, the VIN was not included in NHTSA campaign number: 21v301000 (engine). The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 89,709.

11 Engine And Engine Cooling problem

Failure Date: 06/17/2025

The contact owns a 2020 Hyundai Elantra. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle hesitated and lost automotive power. No warning lights were illuminated. The local dealer was contacted; however, the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact stated that an appointment with the dealer was scheduled to inspect the vehicle. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 68,000.

12 Engine And Engine Cooling problem

Failure Date: 05/22/2025

Engine timing chains are failing in a direct result from recall campaign id 21v301000 piston ring noise sensing system which contaminated my oil accelerating wear on my engine chain and sprockets. A failed or ineffective piston ring noise sensing system can let piston/ring damage go unchecked, leading to oil contamination, which in turn wears out or destroys the timing chain system.

13 Engine And Engine Cooling problem

Failure Date: 03/23/2025

I experienced engine failure with this make and model out of no where. Seen online recalls in the past for same make, year, and model. Dealership and and corporate are not helping me one bit, threatening to charge me for storage, lied about my corporate case being denied, when I have email evidence it was still open, and now zero contact back from Hyundai corporation. I'm trying to seek legal advice and would love any help moving forward struggling gravelly from all of this. Thank you so much ??.

14 Engine And Engine Cooling problem

Failure Date: 03/07/2025

Burning oil at any unacceptable rate. I have made sure to have preventative maintenance and oil changes done every 3k miles. Hyundai needs to address this problem that appears to be plaguing many drivers.

15 Engine And Engine Cooling problem

Failure Date: 02/27/2025

The contact owns a 2020 Hyundai Elantra. The contact assisted in jumpstarting another vehicle with battery failure. The contact stated that the vehicle failed to start the next day after several attempts. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact stated that the tpms warning light had been illuminated prior to the failure. Due to the failure, the vehicle was towed to two separate independent mechanics who informed the contact that the engine had failed. The dealer was notified of the failure and the contact was informed that there were no recalls on the vehicle. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired and remained with an independent mechanic. The failure mileage was approximately 130,000.

16 Engine And Engine Cooling problem

Failure Date: 12/31/2024

Transmission failed while driving & now doesn’t drive.

17 Engine And Engine Cooling problem

Failure Date: 12/06/2024

Engine stalled out, oil light and engine repair light both on, call will not turn over.

18 Engine And Engine Cooling problem

Failure Date: 11/09/2024

Took car into closest mechanic on Saturday 11/09/24 and was informed that both engine mounts were completely shot. Mechanic informed me car was unsafe to drive. Had the car repaired as Hyundai service center was closed. I contacted Hyundai on Monday 11/11/24 to let them know what happened. Received call yesterday from case manager that since I didn't take car to Hyundai facility they would not reimburse me the money paid on the repair. Mechanic at service station said it was unsafe to drive the car of his property. The mechanic also told me he has never seen either engine mount completely shot in care that was only 4 years old.

19 Engine And Engine Cooling problem

Failure Date: 10/06/2024

My vehicle stalled. I was heading to work and vehicle just cut off while driving. The day before it had started making a strange knocking, clicking sound. It will not charge and will not start up. I have not contacted manufacturer and not inspected by manufacturer. I checked VIN # but not on recall list. I have kept my car up to date with servicing. The noise it made when it started to stall was really loud and then cut off. My safety was put at risk because I take the highway to work everyday and almost reached the highway that day before it stalled. My car is used for taking my kids to school, doctors appts and work. I am thankful my kids were not in the car when this happened. It had to be pushed off the road in a high traffic area causing a safety issue.

20 Engine And Engine Cooling problem

Failure Date: 09/12/2024

The warning lamp (engine light) illuminated blinking on and off. Engine code p1327 read on the diagnostic check, riding on the expressway was a little uncomfortable, engine was losing power which is unsafe at high speeds. I’ve contacted the nearest Hyundai dealer and scheduled an appointment for the car repair. I take care of the car and any repairs for maintenance and I never have any problems whatsoever until day. After doing research Hyundai had or has a recall for my vehicle with the VIN number starting with kmh, for engine replacement and I want to know if Hyundai can fix this issue.

21 Engine And Engine Cooling problem

Failure Date: 09/05/2024

Engine failure: engine light came on and oil level was abnormally low, even though oil had been changed not long before. Before able to add buy more oil to add when checked, the engine gradually lost pressure and wouldn't stay started. Died in the middle lane of highway all of a sudden. Inspection under hood showed that there was oil all around on engine and some on the ground. Towed to dealership and was not told of interim recall 21v-301. Possible acceleration of engine oil consumption due to bad piston oil rings. Later I researched and found that Hyundai was to inform owners that they were encouraged to check the level of oil periodically between oil changes. . . That accelerated oil consumption was possible due to this issue of the oil rings. Had to research and find myself.

22 Engine And Engine Cooling problem

Failure Date: 08/26/2024

It makes noise when driving a mph.

23 Engine And Engine Cooling problem

Failure Date: 08/08/2024

A fire started in the passenger headlight assembly. The car had only been running for about 7 minutes directly prior to the fire being noticed. At the time of the fire it was parked & turned off. No injuries. It burned thru/melted part of the bumper & damaged something with the windshield washer fluid. Several people were at risk due to there being a fire! the car was parked at a gas station when the fire broke out. I don't think they have done a thorough investigation yet. It is current at Hyundai of metairie in metairie la. According to the service technician my car is not the only one they have there that had the same thing happen. No warning signs, sounds, or anything else.

24 Engine And Engine Cooling problem

Failure Date: 06/26/2024

Car is almost stalling randomly on the highway . The rpm’s go up and car won’t speed up slows down . Stalls very randomly I am terrified to drive it , I used to have so much confidence on a newer Hyundai .

25 Engine And Engine Cooling problem

Failure Date: 05/26/2024

The car starting knocking while driving and later found out it’s due to a knock sensor issue, at first the check engine light didn’t come on, days later it’s been blinking on and off since then.

26 Engine And Engine Cooling problem

Failure Date: 05/14/2024

Unknown.

27 Engine And Engine Cooling problem

Failure Date: 01/30/2024

Took our vehicle to the local Hyundai dealer on 1/30/2024 to have them look at the engine as my regular mechanic stated the "engine was knocking" at the most recent oil change, and get it to the dealer as it should be under warranty. Turns out it did need an engine which they replaced yesterday finally, however when they took it for a test drive they still heard noises. They examined it further and today they notified me it also needed a new transmission. This vehicle we have had since we bought it new in January of 2021, had less than 10k miles on it when we took it into the dealer on 1/30/2024. This is absolutely unacceptable. Thank goodness I had all my receipts to prove regular proof of maintenance esp since I have a regular guy and did not have it done at the dealers.

28 Engine And Engine Cooling problem

Failure Date: 01/19/2024

I took the vehicle in for it's regular oil change on 1/19/2024. My regular mechanic stated to me that "the engine is knocking, you need to get it to the dealer so they can fix the issue as it should be under warranty. " he finished the oil change and we came home and immediately made an appointment with our local Hyundai dealer - that appointment is on 1/30/2024 at 9 am. This is an extremely concerning issue as it affects the whole vehicle and the ability of it to be driven and last a long time. No warning lamps, or messages occurred for this issue, only the statement by my regular mechanic. I want to make sure this is documented in case Hyundai tries to get out of fixing the issue. This could be a very expensive problem. The appointment was made for the 30,000 mile service, but I will make sure they are aware of the engine issue when I take it in as well.

29 Engine And Engine Cooling problem

Failure Date: 01/02/2024

The contact owns a 2020 Hyundai Elantra. The contact stated that the vehicle failed to start without approximately 15-20 attempts. The vehicle had since failed to start completely. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed that the starter had failed causing the engine to seize. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was then towed to the dealer and the contact was informed that there were two open recalls on the vehicle. The vehicle received the recall repairs however, the starter was not replaced. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and the two unrelated recalls were confirmed with the VIN. Additionally, it was also confirmed that the replacement of the engine was no longer covered under warranty. The approximate failure mileage was 87,000.

30 Engine And Engine Cooling problem

Failure Date: 12/26/2023

On December 26th 2023, the day after christmas. I was drinving to work which is only 5 miles away. All my my dash lights came on. Next thing I know smoke, and fire started billowing out from under the hood. I started having a panic attack because the electrical syemt died and I could get out of the car. I then realized all I had to do was open the door handle. I called 911 and the police and fire department camead put the fire out. The entire under the hood was burned and some windows cracked from the heat. It was a scary ordeal. Im not sure what cause the engine to catch fire. I filed a report with the police and the car was towed. My insurance came and towed it to do an evaluation. They deemed it a total loss and blamed the engine. There was a recall on my engine for fires and stare farm documented it in my loss report. I'm not sure who to go after for this because I had the car for 10 months, put $4000 down.

31 Engine And Engine Cooling problem

Failure Date: 12/22/2023

The engine at 41,000 miles had a catastrophic engine failure on December 22, 2023. It blew up with all maintenance done on time. I bought this car on February 28, 2023 and I heard the same knocking noise a week after the dealer kept my car for 36 days and was unable to re-create the problem. The car has now been in the shop for 15 days and I believe it is a complete lemon. I do not trust the safety of this vehicle and I see others are filing complaints ago Hyundai and kia for the same thing I want to be reimbursed and my loan canceled.

32 Engine And Engine Cooling problem

Failure Date: 12/22/2023

Engine seized while going 55-60mph with warning lights only 15 seconds before my vehicle completely stopped on the highway (route 18 east brunswick, NJ) the engine was replaced by Hyundai along with the manifold and catalytic converter. Vehicle lost all control and power and started excessively knocking while I tried to get to the shoulder but only made it to the right lane. The safety of others and myself were out at risk due to no control of the vehicle. Repair order attached.

33 Engine And Engine Cooling problem

Failure Date: 11/12/2023

The contact owns a 2020 Hyundai Elantra. The contact stated that while attempting to start the vehicle, the engine cranked but the engine failed to turn over. The vehicle was towed to the dealer where it was diagnosed with a failed engine and the contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact stated that he was informed by the dealer that the VIN was not under recall. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 114,000.

34 Engine And Engine Cooling problem

Failure Date: 10/11/2023

The vehicles engine has gone through a gradual decrease of power and then the car went into "limp mode" and began burning oil. I have taken it to dealer multiple times and they would run diagnostic and never find anything significant. When it went into limp mode I took it back to dealer and they ran diagnostic and said the engine was bad. They said that the car is out of warranty and they would not cover the repairs. When I look into the problems that the vehicle was exhibiting there was a recall 203 that describes my problem exactly. When I look it shows this was completed at around 6000 miles. I believe this was done to early in the vehicles life and it didn't exhibit any of these issues. Now at 80,000 miles the engine now has all the issues described in the recall and the manufacturer will not replace or repair the engine.

35 Engine And Engine Cooling problem

Failure Date: 06/30/2023

The contact owns a 2020 Hyundai Elantra. The contact stated while driving at various speeds and releasing the accelerator pedal to come to a stop, the vehicle sputtered, made a clicking sound, and stalled. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The contact was able to pull over to the side of the road. The contact shifted to neutral(n) and was able to restart the vehicle. The contact stated that the failure had been recurring while driving. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed with engine failure. The mechanic related the failure to NHTSA campaign number: 21v301000 (engine) and referred the contact to the manufacturer for assistance. The dealer and the manufacturer were notified of the failure and informed the contact that the VIN was not included in the recall. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 70,000.



Elantra Service Bulletins
Elantra Safety Recalls
Elantra Defect Investigations