general problems of the 2020 Hyundai Elantra - part 1

88 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: 04/15/2026

The check engine light came on at 101000 miles. I took it to the shop and the mechanic said there was no oil on the dipstick and he put in oil and said we need a new engine because it is knocking. We have noticed the vehicle has a rough idle now.

2 Engine And Engine Cooling problem

Failure Date: 04/05/2026

Within a matter of a few days my car has been stopping by itself. The car was smoking and stopping in the middle of the highway, my dealership is proving me with a new engine but is trying to have me come out of pocket for an fuel injector, please help !.

3 Engine And Engine Cooling problem

Failure Date: 04/02/2026

My engine failed due to a known piston problem code p1327. The recall 203 was performed 7/1/22 which put in a sensor so the dealership said that Hyundai said they do not have to fix it because it is out of warranty at 141,000 miles and was manufactured in south korea so they say it doesn't qualify for the extended warranty recall 203 dealer best practice date: October 12, 2021 subject: hma recall 203 – nu 2. 0l atkinson engine inspection and replacement - (TSB #21-01-054h-1) - remedy available v3 updates to this document date • TSB# 21-01-054h-1 – the TSB supersedes TSB # 21-01-054h to revise the parts and warranty information sections, specifically related to add engine and service kit part numbers and op codes for engine replacement. 10/12/21. My car is available for inspection. The sensor light came on on the highway when the engine was already out of oil which caused the failure. The car could have caught fire or stalled on the highway which is the safety issue. The vehicle was inspected by tires plus and got the p1327 code and also the wallace Hyundai dealer in ft. Pierce, FL which got same code.

4 Engine And Engine Cooling problem

Failure Date: 03/27/2026

Said it needed a map sensor. I replaced it and it started acting g crazy. Dying at stop lights making weird noises. I finally threw cod p0011 so I bought the oil control valve before it arrived NY car died. It skipped 5 or 6 teeth. 3,900 left to pay on it. Im a single mom and need my car to provide [xxx] [xxx] information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u. S. C. 552(b)(6).

5 Engine And Engine Cooling problem

Failure Date: 03/07/2026

I see there was a p0420 error code related to catalytic converter oil consumption recall, but when I put in my VIN it said no recalls. This is for a 2020 Hyundai Elantra 2020. The problem comes and goes and was able to be reproduced or confirmed by a dealer Hyundai. The warning lamps, messages comes on frequently and was reportedly fixed charges $2000 for a sensor. I the code and it is all over the internet that it is a recall. But does not show up with VIN. I need assistance with getting this fixed at the dealer.

6 Engine And Engine Cooling problem

Failure Date: 02/12/2026

The contact owns a 2020 Hyundai Elantra. The contact received notification of NHTSA campaign number: 21v301000 (engine). While driving at an undisclosed speed, the check engine warning light illuminated, and the vehicle was pulled over to the side of the road. The vehicle was towed to the residence. The contact then towed the vehicle to the dealer, where it was diagnosed with piston oil rings failure, and it was determined that the engine needed to be replaced. The dealer informed the contact that the manufacturer had refused to honor the recall repair. The vehicle remained at the dealer unrepaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.

7 Engine And Engine Cooling problem

Failure Date: 02/10/2026

My car just lost all power and stopped on the side of the road after making a weird noise under the hood.

8 Engine And Engine Cooling problem

Failure Date: 02/05/2026

Burning/ oil/gas in oil/stalling/engine light on. . . Open recall of other models of same car not includin tghis one. Seems to be same issue.

9 Engine And Engine Cooling problem

Failure Date: 12/30/2025

Reporting motor has a cold start ticking sound coming from the motor.

10 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.

11 Engine And Engine Cooling problem

Failure Date: 12/03/2025

Subject: abnormal engine failure – Hyundai case #[xxx] I am filing this complaint regarding my Hyundai vehicle, which suffered catastrophic engine failure at approximately 150,000 miles. While the vehicle is outside the standard warranty, this type of failure is not consistent with normal use or expected durability. Hyundai motor America has acknowledged receipt of my certified demand letter (case #[xxx]) but has refused to provide coverage, instead directing me to pay for towing and diagnostic costs. This position is unacceptable given Hyundai’s history of abnormal engine defects and related settlements. Key points: • the failure is abnormal and consistent with systemic defects Hyundai has faced in prior litigation, including the theta ii and lambda ii engine defect class actions, which resulted in recalls and settlements covering millions of vehicles. • Hyundai has previously extended goodwill repairs and recall coverage for similar failures, even outside warranty periods. • engine failure at this mileage presents a serious safety hazard, including risk of stalling, fire, or loss of power while driving. • Hyundai’s refusal to cover towing and diagnostic costs places an unfair burden on consumers and may violate consumer protection statutes. Requested action: I request that the agency investigate Hyundai’s handling of abnormal engine failures, ensure compliance with consumer protection and safety laws, and require Hyundai to provide coverage or reimbursement for towing, diagnostic, and repair costs in cases where engine failure is abnormal and unsafe. Supporting documentation: • certified demand letter sent to Hyundai motor America. • Hyundai’s written denial (case #[xxx], dated December 11, 2025). • vehicle mileage and details of engine failure. Information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u. S. C. 552(b)(6).

12 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.

13 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.

14 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.

15 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.

16 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.

17 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.

18 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!?.

19 Engine And Engine Cooling problem

Failure Date: 07/10/2025

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

20 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.

21 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.

22 Engine And Engine Cooling problem

Failure Date: 06/01/2025

The contact owns a 2020 Hyundai Elantra. The contact stated that the vehicle unexpectedly turned off while driving 25 mph on a local road. The engine symbol was displayed. Additionally, the battery was drained. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, and the battery was replaced three times. Additionally, the computer was replaced, and the contact was informed that the powertrain system had failed. The local dealer was contacted and confirmed that there was no extended warranty on the vehicle. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact called the financial institution and the dealer who sold the vehicle about the warranty. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 70,000.

23 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.

24 Engine And Engine Cooling problem

Failure Date: 04/20/2025

The contact owns a 2020 Hyundai Elantra. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, there was a low rattling sound coming from the engine compartment. Upon checking the oil, the contact found the oil level was low and added approximately two quarts of oil. The contact stated that 2-quarts of oil were added monthly because the oil level and consistently low. However, there were no signs of an oil leak while the vehicle was parked. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired; however, during a routine oil change, the contact was informed that an oil gasket might need to be installed. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.

25 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 ??.

26 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.

27 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.

28 Engine And Engine Cooling problem

Failure Date: 12/31/2024

Transmission failed while driving & now doesn’t drive.

29 Engine And Engine Cooling problem

Failure Date: 12/26/2024

Engine is stalling and consuming oil at a higher then normal rate. Knock sensor is having issues at 24k miles both part of recall campaign 974 and recall 203. Took the auto to dealer for service and was told Hyundai would not honor the recall due to a branded title which now puts me in a scenario of possibly engine stall in the middle of highway traffic.

30 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.

31 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.

32 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.

33 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.

34 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.

35 Engine And Engine Cooling problem

Failure Date: 08/26/2024

It makes noise when driving a mph.



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