Hyundai Elantra owners have reported 1,176 problems related to engine and engine cooling (under the engine and engine cooling category). The most recently reported issues are listed below. Also please check out the statistics and reliability analysis of Hyundai Elantra based on all problems reported for the Elantra.
My engine has a piston slap. I have the 1. 8l 4cy nu engine. It causes the car to stall unexpectedly creating a potential for serious accidents.
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all problems of the 2013 Hyundai Elantra
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The coolant system is failing after it was fully replaced in November of 2024 and I got the car of may 2025 with only two previous owners. Coolant system failing after me only have the car for 6 months when the car sat for 5 months.
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all problems of the 2016 Hyundai Elantra
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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.
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all problems of the 2020 Hyundai Elantra
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Yes, it put people at risk by breaking the engine and throwing oil on the highway. The engine simply opened a hole in the block. There was no light and yes the car is currently in inspection at Hyundai focus on these cars because Hyundai complicates a lot to try to get out of warranty.
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all problems of the 2019 Hyundai Elantra
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I was on a delivery yesterday when this first occurred. I put my car into reverse and proceded to back up when my engine cut off suddenly and a loud warning came on , on my dash by the steering wheel it said . . . Engine off, shift to neutral and restart. That is what I did and it restarted and I continued on with my deliveries. Then the exact same thing happened again today so I called the dealership and they said there is a recall with the isg system that could be the issue but no resolution yet so there's nothing they can do. In the meantime time I can't use my vehicle for work as im a full time food delivery driver and I have to back up into roadways multiple times a day going in and out of driveways and I can't risk my safety or other drivers safety as my car may turn off in the roadway.
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all problems of the 2023 Hyundai Elantra
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Excessive oil consumption. Engine completely dry after 3500 miles in between oil change with no check oil warning light.
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all problems of the 2018 Hyundai Elantra
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Oil leaking from pistons in engine just like the recalled engines.
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.
Vehicle routinely sputters and stalls at slow speeds. This happens once or twice during most times I use the car. This has happened in intersections and on highways at stop and go traffic. The car is not safe to drive. I haves brought the vehicle into the dealer at least three times for this and they have replaced a different valve (don't know what it was) on two of the occasions but the problem continues. I have an upcoming appointment with my authorized Hyundai dealer (the vehicle is still under warranty) and hope I have better luck next time. But a vehicle that stalls on every trip is not safety.
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.
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.
In or about December/2022, I had made numerous attempts to fix my vehicle's engine. It kept stalling on the roadway and finally Hyundai agreed the motor was the problem and they ended up installing a new motor. The vehicle was then out not warranty and they said they were not responsible for the vehicle any longer. The vehicle's check engine light kept coming on and off at times. I did minor work to the vehicle and kept up with maintenance. Now my vehicle's motor is blown again without notice. It stalls on the highway and leaves me stranded. I believe that this type of vehicles were flawed from the beginning. I really convinced these vehicles should be recalled and taken off the highways since, in my opinion, they are not safe to be on the road.
Engine burning oil.
The component that failed was the pistons in my engine on my 2019 Hyundai Elantra se which I see is on recall. I understand that my VIN may have been missed or looked over during the recalling systems decision making. I was on my way to work when my engine just shut off in the middle of traffic! since that happened my anxiety levels has been extremely high! I took my car to the dealership and they confirmed that it was my pistons and to keep checking the recall website because they have seen something like this before. Before the engine cut off there was abosulutly no warning! date of incident [xxx] information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u. S. C. 552(b)(6).
My 2015 Hyundai Elantra fits the 'window' of Elantras where the engine transmission slips gears without notice. Hyundai dealers have been replacing transmissions at no cost, if the car is still under 100,000 miles, as part of a class action settlement. As the second owner, I have no warranty rights to get Hyundai to fix my car at no cost. This is despite the Hyundai dealer just today (Aug 20, 2025) here in las vegas was ready to replace my transmission at no cost until they found out I am the second owner. The car is still unsafe. The need is still relevant. The dealer was willing at first. Now I am faced with an unsafe vehicle forced to possibly pass in excess of $4,000 to fix an issue that has been know and litigated.
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all problems of the 2015 Hyundai Elantra
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After the recall at Hyundai, my car wouldn't run and there were many lights on the dashboard. It was later checked and the instability light problem persisted. They fixed on the same time, and say something problem with the update. They later informed me that I have a problem with the brake switch, and the brake lights don't work because of it. I replaced and doesn’t work, I went back to the store and they want me to pay a fee to have it analyzed again. Even though before the recall, the lights and the car were working perfectly.
The contact owns a 2018 Hyundai Elantra. The contact stated that after an oil change was performed at jiffy lube, the engine seized while driving. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle lost motive power. Several unknown warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was coasted to the side of the highway and parked. The vehicle was towed to the residence, and the tow truck driver informed the contact that an unknown engine part had detached on the road and there was no oil in the engine. Jiffy lube inspected the vehicle at the residence and informed the contact that they were not responsible for the engine failure, which was caused by a lack of oil changes after 10,000 miles. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 86,151.
Oil consumption, 1 quart a week with no known or visible leaks. 64,000 miles.
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all problems of the 2017 Hyundai Elantra
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The contact owns a 2019 Hyundai Elantra. While the contact’s daughter was driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle stalled. During the failure, the check engine and oil warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was later towed to an independent mechanic and was diagnosed and determined that the engine had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The contact was informed that the VIN was not included in NHTSA campaign number: 21v301000 (engine). The contact stated that the vehicle had experienced the same failure listed in the recall. The failure mileage was 130,000.
The car turn off in the middle of the road and it ain’t wanna turn back on and I had cars behind me and almost hit the back of my car my emergency light were on too and I was in the city I had to get it towed.
On August 9, 2025, my 2013 Hyundai Elantra suffered catastrophic engine failure while driving. The engine seized, creating immediate danger on the road. This vehicle is under NHTSA recall 23v651000 (Hyundai recall 251), which warns of fire/engine compartment risks both while parked and driving. Hyundai denied my claim, citing a vendor report that found “no thermal damage” to the abs wiring. However, the dealer’s inspection confirmed internal engine failure with thermal damage, and I directly witnessed flames. The recall does not require abs wiring itself to burn , it covers the broader safety hazard of fire and failure, which is exactly what occurred. In addition, Hyundai tried to shift blame onto owner maintenance. Their own recall language acknowledges failures occur due to the defect, not neglect. Furthermore, the handling by Hyundai’s case managers was unacceptable: my case was transferred without notice, calls were ignored, and I was left without clear instructions or remedy while my vehicle was disabled. I have attached the denial letter, the dealer report, the recall notice, and proof of maintenance. I request NHTSA review Hyundai’s mishandling of this recall obligation and require them to provide remedy and compensation.
I was driving and my car just shut down. Thank goodness I was only in a drive thru because my car was still in gear. I got it restarted and it was making a terrible noise. I took it to hyandai where they told me that I had a piston slap. Hyandai corporate knows that this is a problem. I am lucky to have not been on the highway it could have caused serious injury or death to me or anyone around me. Hyandai corporate should replace the engine that they know is bad or if someone has had it replaced they should be reimbursing. Them. It's dangerous the 1. 8l 4-cylinder nu engine.
Burning oil. Multiple misfires. Replacing spark plugs more often than should have to. Engine knocking.
Oil consumption will cut off while driving.
I own a 2016 Hyundai Elantra, and the engine makes a noticeable knocking or “tapping” noise when started cold. The sound resembles piston slap and usually lessens as the engine warms up, but it’s been gradually getting louder over time. It’s most noticeable for the first few minutes after startup, especially in cooler weather. I’m concerned this may indicate premature piston or cylinder wear. I’ve found many other 2016 Elantra owners reporting the same problem online, suggesting it may be a design or manufacturing issue. The vehicle has been properly maintained with the correct oil grade and regular service, so this shouldn’t be happening at this mileage. This could eventually lead to engine failure or costly repairs if the piston or cylinder surfaces deteriorate further. I’m reporting this so NHTSA can track the issue and determine if it poses a broader reliability or safety concern.
Vehicle issue description for NHTSA complaint: component/system failure: the engine of my 2013 Hyundai Elantra (VIN: [insert VIN]) completely failed at 51,000 miles. The alternator also failed and had to be replaced. There was a persistent smell of gasoline inside and outside the vehicle, creating a fire hazard. All components are available for inspection upon request. Safety risk: the engine failure left the vehicle completely inoperable. The gas smell created a serious fire hazard and caused me to experience health issues, requiring an er visit. The combination of engine malfunction, electrical issues, and fuel leaks posed a risk to my safety and the safety of others while driving. Confirmation by dealer / mechanic: independent mechanics inspected the vehicle and confirmed the engine failure and alternator issues. Multiple mechanics advised not to drive the car due to the fire hazard. The original selling dealer (larry h. Miller Toyota) inspected the car and acknowledged engine problems in writing on a business card. Inspection by manufacturer / others: Hyundai corporate has been notified, but they declined warranty coverage as the vehicle is a second-owner car and beyond the original warranty. The dealer has also been made aware of the engine failure. Warning lamps / symptoms: no warning lamps indicated imminent engine failure prior to the engine dying. The first symptoms were mechanical issues, gas smell, and eventual total engine failure. Alternator failure and repeated maintenance issues occurred within 8 months of purchase. Additional notes: vehicle purchased at 34,000 miles; engine failed at 51,000 miles. Independent repair receipts, er paperwork, are available to support the case.
My 2013 Hyundai Elantra with the 1. 8l nu engine suffered catastrophic engine failure. A mechanic found metal shavings in the oil and diagnosed a failed connecting rod bearing. The Hyundai dealership quoted $10,000 for a new engine and refused warranty coverage because I am over 120,000 miles, even though this is a well-documented defect. Hyundai issued TSB 22-em-007h covering rod bearing wear in this engine, and there have been class actions and warranty extensions for similar failures. This failure creates a safety hazard, as the engine can seize or stall suddenly while driving, increasing risk of an accident. I request NHTSA investigate this known defect in the 1. 8l nu engine, as it poses a safety risk to myself and others.
While driving down the road, the car lost complete power. No warning lights came on until after the car had lost power. Car struggled to start back up. I put flashers on in hopes that others would notice my disabled vehicle in the middle of the road, while it was also pouring down the rain. The vehicle was towed to my local dealership where it was confirmed that I would need a new engine. The engine had a high oil consumption issue that caused it to stale while driving. The dealership informed me either there was a rod bearing issue or a piston slap in the engine. They recommended to park the car until fixed.
When you accelerate & let off the gas pedal, the vehicle still accelerated for 2 seconds after you release the gas pedal. It is like there is a delay with drive by wire signal. This situation can cause rear end collisions & hard panic braking. Please recall this situation to prevent higher insurance cost & increased accidents!.
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all problems of the 2024 Hyundai Elantra
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It is showing signs of excessive oil consumption. 200 miles before my next scheduled oil change there was no oil in the car, causing overheating issues. It uses the same engine as other recalled years for the same issue. However they never issued a recall for the 2018. The only update I've ever received was a surprise notice from valvoline, mid oil change, that if I didn't use the more expensive oil change option, which I couldn't afford in the moment, that I would void any warranty from Hyundai. There was no prior notice or contact from Hyundai informing me of this "new" (the valvoline tech's words not mine) policy. So not only is my car experiencing an issue known to affect this engine, they get to absolve themselves from responsibility by surprising someone with a greater expense than they are expecting, by not giving notice to their customers? this doesn't seem fair and needs to be addressed. Since that first visit I have followed their recommended oil change specs and still have excessive consumption. The date I'm giving is the approximate date of that first visit to valvoline when my car had no oil and I was told mid change about the new policy.
My engine blew in September 2024. I had it replaced. When I replaced it I got a one year warranty and unlimited mile warranty. It now blew in July 2025. I have had it Hyundai of mankato which they didnt want to wait on Hyundai of America to do anything to fix it and told my mechanics to have my car get offline their lot. My mechanics towed my car to happy Hyundai of rochester. Hyundai of America will not accept my warranty now and just pay for the new motor, tear down, and the time they have in it. Hyundai of America told my mechanics if they took it from Hyundai of mankato and brought it to another dealership that they approve of that they would accept my warranty and pay for all parts and everything. Hyundai of America picked happy Hyundai of rochester. Where my car is.
While driving on the freeway at normal highway speed, the vehicle experienced a sudden and catastrophic engine failure. The engine immediately lost power, and the vehicle shut down within seconds. There was no prior warning or opportunity to take corrective action. The vehicle became completely disabled and could not be driven. This occurred late at night with limited traffic, and I was lucky to be near a freeway exit. I was able to coast toward the exit, but the engine seized fully, resulting in total loss of propulsion and blocking the freeway exit ramp. Law enforcement had to assist due to the disabled vehicle creating a traffic obstruction and safety hazard. A tow truck was required to remove the vehicle because it could not be restarted or moved. Under normal traffic conditions, this sudden loss of engine power at freeway speed could have resulted in a serious, potentially fatal collision. The outcome depended on luck, timing, and location rather than any safety system functioning as intended. The engine was later diagnosed by an authorized Hyundai dealership as seized due to internal failure. Hyundai denied warranty coverage because a software safety campaign had not been completed prior to the failure, even though the failure occurred suddenly and without warning, leaving no opportunity to complete the campaign. However, at the time of the failure, the NHTSA recall lookup tool showed zero unrepaired recalls associated with this vehicle’s VIN. The campaign referenced by Hyundai is intended only to detect certain engine conditions and does not repair engine defects. In this case, the engine failed before any detection or warning could occur. The vehicle had just been refueled and was equipped with four brand-new tires, confirming it was being operated normally. This incident involved an unexpected and complete loss of engine power at freeway speed due to an apparent engine defect, presenting a serious safety risk to the driver and other motorists.
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.
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!?.
The dealership replaced my engine and spark plugs when the pistons were grinding metal causing a catastrophic failure in November of 2024. In July of 2025 I started experiencing the same issues and the dealership stated that Hyundais ignition coils have a high rate of failure because they changed the design and used my old ones from my engine replacement. It is now I brought my car into the dealership July 18th and they stated that was their best guess but they didn’t now forsure. I was never informed of the high rate of failure until I was experiencing it.