Engine And Engine Cooling Problems of Hyundai Elantra - part 2

Hybrid system failure ----- 2025 Hyundai Elantra hybrid (blue trim) the instrument panel showed hybrid system failure, and the engine died on the freeway at 70 mph. Luckily, I was able to pull to the right shoulder on a busy freeway. I tried restarting the car, but the instrument panel turned off after one second for the first two tries, and then nothing would turn on. I had it towed to lithia Hyundai of fresno on February 11, 2025. The car is still at the dealer being diagnosed and repaired for hybrid system failure with total power loss. Extremely dangerous to have the engine cut out at 70 mph on a busy freeway.

See all problems of the 2025 Hyundai Elantra 🔎.

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

See all problems of the 2020 Hyundai Elantra 🔎.

A system in the engine that allows for oil to sit and burn. Unkown a mechanic shop that I go to regularly stated that this has been a known issue that has been going on for the past 12 years. Along side when I bought the car I was told that the engine is usually louder then most cars, this has been the general consensus. Personally with my car no, having done research outside of just my car: unknown there were no warning lamps, messages, or other symptoms of the problem. I was first told about this issue during the 2nd week of February of 2026, with the oil change paperwork of when I found out about the issue.

See all problems of the 2013 Hyundai Elantra 🔎.

Engine failure. Less than 150,000 miles and engine has gone bad. Burning oil, and loud noise when car starts. Had multiple mechanics look at the car whom said the motor went bad. I’ve been consistent with oil changes, tune ups, etc. Maintained the car well so I don’t know why or how this happened.

See all problems of the 2019 Hyundai Elantra 🔎.

The vehicle has developed a pronounced knocking noise that was diagnosed by your authorized dealership as “piston slap. ” I was informed by dealership staff that this is a known issue with this vehicle. However, because the vehicle is outside of warranty by time and mileage, I was told no repair assistance would be provided. My primary concern is safety. While there are currently no warning lamps illuminated, the engine is producing a consistent knocking noise. If this condition progresses to piston or engine failure while the vehicle is in operation, it could cause sudden loss of power or engine seizure. Such a failure at highway speeds or in traffic could create a serious accident risk to myself and others. Additionally, I was charged one hour of diagnostic labor, despite the dealership immediately recognizing the noise as piston slap without needing further testing. This raises concern that: the issue is well-known, the condition was identifiable without extensive diagnosis, yet I was still billed for a full diagnostic hour. Given that this is acknowledged as a known issue, I am requesting: a formal review of this case by your product safety and quality department. Clarification on whether this condition has been the subject of technical service bulletins, extended coverage programs, or internal advisories. Consideration of goodwill repair assistance due to the potential safety implications. Reimbursement of the diagnostic charge, as no true diagnostic procedure appears to have been required. Written confirmation that continued operation of the vehicle in its current condition does not present a safety risk. I am prepared to provide service records, invoices, and any additional documentation needed. Given the potential safety implications, I respectfully request a response within 48 hours. I am hopeful the manufacturer will stand behind the safety and reliability of its product and address this matter promptly.

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.

After no previous issues, car stalled out multiple times on short drive to work. No warning lights and no subsequent diagnostic codes were reported. Upon final restart, engine started knocking severely. Upon investigation, the oil stick showed no oil in the pan. Vehicle was towed to trusted, licensed mechanic for evaluation where we were informed about the potential of a failure due to rapid oil consumption. The mechanic confirmed the engine failure to to oil loss. Vehicle had received regular, documented maintenance and fluids were checked periodically between cycles. There was no low-fluid indicator prior to the mechanical failure. Dealership-level conversations confirmed the rapid oil consumption issue for the 2017 Elantra is common, but because the vehicle VIN was not listed as part of a prior recall no assistance could be provided to repair the engine. The dealer provided a full cost quote of $9,000 to replace the engine block with a remanufactured unit.

See all problems of the 2017 Hyundai Elantra 🔎.

So I have a suspicion OH a connecting rod, might be a bearing but it’s making a tik tik noise, no other issue than that, no engine light no nothing, been doing it for a while but car still goes great.

See all problems of the 2016 Hyundai Elantra 🔎.

I have a piston/engine defect according to the mechanic at the car shop. Any time any acceleration is applied you can hear the knocking. I believe it should be covered through the class action alleged that 2011-2016 Elantras engines (including the limited trim) have a piston defect leading to engine failure. A settlement offered extended warranties, engine repairs, and reimbursement. I was unaware and have already spent tons of money towards repairs to the engine over the years. Now I am aware of this lawsuit and would like some kind replacement.

See all problems of the 2011 Hyundai Elantra 🔎.

[xxx] is subject to safety recall 20v-755 Hyundai recall 251 for a defective abs module that may leak brake fluid, cause an electrical short, and increase the risk of an engine compartment fire. The recall remains open and has not been performed. On Feb 2, I brought the vehicle to mcgovern Hyundai of arlington and disclosed an active brake fluid leak consistent with recall 251. I also stated that brakes were recently replaced 4 weeks ago. The service advisor incorrectly said the recall was just for a fuse and unrelated to brake fluid. The dealership drove the car for a state inspection despite knowing about the leak and open recall. They stated the brakes are bad and requested payment for a diagnostic, which I declined. No diagnostic testing was performed. The dealership informed me the required abs module part was unavailable and instructed me to return Friday, waiting 3 5 business days. The recall repair was not completed, and no towing or alternate transportation was offered. The dealership invoice documents the incomplete repair. I live in east boston, MA, a densely populated urban area with street parking. If the defect causes a fire, it could endanger nearby vehicles, residences, and public safety. I am filing this complaint to document the unprepared safety defect, dealership misinformation, and ongoing community fire risk. Information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u. S. C. 552(b)(6).

With no 'low oil' warning, the car's engine started may a knocking noise. Then, all kinds of warning lights started. Parked the vehicle and checked the oil the next day and there was no oil in the engine. This should not have been the case considering this car gets regular oil changes. Also, there was no oil spots or stains on the driveway to also indicate an oil leak. This happened to my son while driving home from work on the interstate at 10:30 at night. That is concerning.

The contact owned a 2022 Hyundai Elantra. The contact stated while the vehicle was parked, the contact stated that a relative had entered the residence and informed the contact that the vehicle was on fire. The vehicle was unoccupied. The contact stated that no warning lights were illuminated prior to the failure. The fire department arrived and extinguished the fire. A fire report was filed. In addition, the contact stated that the vehicle was parked five minutes prior to the failure. The vehicle was towed to a local tow yard. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure, and a case was filed. The contact was advised to have the vehicle towed to the dealer for inspection. The failure mileage was approximately 40,000.

See all problems of the 2022 Hyundai Elantra 🔎.

Car was operating fine, then when we got on the highway, we noticed the check engine light had come on but were unable to get off the highway. The vehicle then began slowing down despite pressing down on the gas pedal. Vehicle continued to slow to about 15mph and we were hit by another car.

Engine failure consistent with known Hyundai engine defect. Blue smoke, oil consumption, engine knock mechanic autoscanned codes were p0300, po301, po302 lost half quart of oil in 800 miles fire risk acknowledged in recall documentation - undriveable car at Hyundai dealer in salem nh, renting a car now as without any transportation manufacturer denied repair based solely on VIN despite identical failure.

See all problems of the 2015 Hyundai Elantra 🔎.

To whom it may concern, I am submitting this complaint regarding a 2012 Hyundai Elantra equipped with the 1. 8l nu engine, which is experiencing premature internal engine damage that presents a potential safety risk. Vehicle details: year/make/model: 2012 Hyundai Elantra mileage: approximately 134,500 miles issue description: the engine produces a persistent ticking/knocking noise, most pronounced at cold start but now continuing even after the engine has warmed. A Hyundai dealership diagnosed the vehicle with piston slap and confirmed significant scarring on the cylinder walls, stating that the only repair is full engine replacement. Despite the presence of internal engine damage, no warning lights are illuminated. I am concerned this condition could lead to sudden engine seizure or loss of power while driving, creating a safety hazard. Additional observations include: excessive crankcase blow-by observed when removing the oil fill cap while the engine is running strong exhaust fumes at cold start noise most noticeable at idle and low rpm regular oil changes using manufacturer-recommended oil viscosity the dealership advised the condition was not repairable short of engine replacement and did not submit the concern for Hyundai corporate technical review (techline), despite the known history of engine defects in Hyundai nu engines. I am filing this complaint to document a pattern of premature internal engine wear that may not be adequately addressed through recalls or warranty programs, and which could result in sudden engine failure. Thank you for your attention to this matter.

See all problems of the 2012 Hyundai Elantra 🔎.

My car started stalling on speed bumps and turning. Then one day it stopped accelerating and died. There is no compression. I am told I now probably need a new engine. I saw that other Elantras from 2019 were recalled for this issue and why wasn’t mine? I could have gotten hurt.

Driving on the highway in the far left lane. Check engine light came on, car stopped accelerating. Car came to a stop, car shut off. Smoke was coming out from under the hood and flames were seen underneath the car. Police and fire department arrived. Report states an electrical fire. Had car towed to Hyundai. Hyundai stated that the engine seized followed by the starter catching on fire. Car was only 2,000 miles in from last oil change. Was up to date on maintenance and safety inspection. Hyundai also stated there was a hole in the engine block. No prior issues with the car. The car would need roughly $16,000 in work done, confirmed by Hyundai. Car is now totaled. Car only had 121,000 miles on it.

While driving back into town on the interstate, my oil plug fell out of my car. It was not known at the time the oil plug was what fell out. I remember hearing a clunk underneath my car. About 5-10 minutes after I heard the noise, my oil light flashed, and I could feel my car unable to accelerate further. I pulled over to the side of the road and my engine stalled. I had it towed to a body shop. The next morning, they called and said the oil plug was missing and there was no damage to my undercarriage. My engine was ruined and I was quoted $9,400 for the repair, which is probably more than the value of my car, effectively totaling it. My last oil change was November 12th, 2025 where my odometer was at 82,633. This occurred after 3,393 miles and about 2 months from this most recent oil change. I had not seen oil leaking from my vehicle well before this happened, and I had no indicator lights on or flashing well before this incident. My engine has not previously been checked for Hyundai TSB 21-em-003h, Hyundai TSB 21-em-004h, or kia TSB 222.

Description of incident: the vehicle is experiencing significant engine oil dilution by gasoline. Upon inspection of the dipstick, the oil level is consistently found to be well above the "full" mark, and the oil emits a strong, pungent odor of raw fuel. This indicates that unburnt gasoline is bypassing the piston rings and entering the crankcase during normal operation, particularly in colder temperatures or during hybrid engine cycling. Safety risk: the dilution of engine oil with fuel significantly reduces the oil's viscosity and lubricating properties. This creates a high risk of premature engine wear, rod bearing failure, and sudden engine seizure or stalling while the vehicle is in motion. A sudden loss of motive power at highway speeds poses a severe crash hazard to myself and other motorists. Attempts to correct: I have noted that similar Hyundai models using the 1. 6l platform (such as the tucson hybrid via TSB 23-ee-002h) have received software updates to address this specific issue. However, when contacting the dealer regarding my Elantra hybrid, I was informed that no such software fix or service campaign currently exists for the cn7 Elantra model, leaving the safety defect unaddressed. Expected resolution: Hyundai should be required to issue a recall or technical service bulletin for the Elantra hybrid to update the engine control unit (ecu) logic, ensuring the engine reaches and maintains temperatures necessary to prevent fuel accumulation in the oil.

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

Vehicle: 2022 Hyundai n line mileage at initial incident: ~17,000 miles components involved: engine and engine cooling; exhaust system / emissions; air bags (srs) I am submitting this complaint to document unresolved emissions system and supplemental restraint system (srs) safety concerns involving my 2022 Hyundai n line, as well as the manufacturer’s refusal to ensure proper diagnosis and corrective action following a documented dealer service error and subsequent warranty repair. At approximately 17,000 miles, a Hyundai-authorized dealership failed to reinstall an engine oil seal during a routine oil change. This error caused rapid engine oil loss at highway speed, activation of the oil warning system, and oil discharge onto the roadway. The incident is documented in Hyundai service records and is not disputed. Sudden oil-loss events of this nature are known to cause latent or progressive damage to internal engine components and federally regulated emissions systems, even when immediate engine failure does not occur. Despite proper maintenance after this incident, the vehicle subsequently set dtc p0420 (catalyst system efficiency below threshold – bank 1) at a mileage far below expected durability. Hyundai replaced the catalytic converter under warranty. I requested diagnostic data, inspection findings, and documentation supporting the repair, but the dealership refused to provide anything beyond a basic repair invoice. Immediately following this Hyundai-authorized warranty repair, the vehicle developed a new drivability defect, specifically hesitation during acceleration, which was not present prior to the catalytic converter replacement. This indicates a post-repair nonconformity and raises concern that emissions-related components may not have been fully repaired or that additional systems were affected during the warranty repair process. When I returned the vehicle for evaluation, the dealership stated that it would not diagnose the vehicle unless an acti.

I received confirmation from my local Hyundai dealership that my 2016 Hyundai Elantra gt is consuming over 1. 8 quarts of oil every 1000 miles. The mileage is currently 70k miles. This is not the result of lack of maintenance or neglect but because of Hyundais engine design. I was told by the local dealership that I would need a total engine re build. This was the only option to fix the issue 100%. I was told that if the issue is not fixed it will result in engine failure. Hyundai is not recalling their engines or acknowledging the inherent danger this will cause. I am at my engines will if I cannot afford this repair because Hyundai won’t honor the powertrain warranty.

I own a 2019 Hyundai Elantra value edition . 2. 0l 1999cc l4. A few weeks ago we started with really cold/snowy weather and as I’m driving I’ve noticed weird knocking sound that sounds like a Ford f250 starting up. Today while stopped in traffic with the vehicle idling, the 2019 Hyundai Elantra cut off into the battery mode as if I just have my car running off of my battery (roll windows up) and all of the lights on the dash board on. I put my car on the break to turn my car off and it went back into drive mode, it didn’t shut off. I tried accelerating my car went no where, within a few minutes it did it multiple times. I called the local dealer and was informed that there were no recalls associated with the VIN. I let Hyundai webb aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 197,000.

2015 Hyundai Elantra is consuming oil. I have changed the oil on all of my vehicles ever since I have owned vehicles and this vehicle purchased used for my children and maintained by me is consuming oil requiring addition of +/- a quart of oil between trips from baltimore, MD to new haven, CT. Oil lamp on dashboard is lighting indicating low level of oil upon return to home just north of baltimore December 15, 2025 after a trip north to new haven CT November 29, 2025. Oil was topped off prior to trip back to school on November 28, 2025 and 16 days later after trip home on December 15, 2015, oil lamp on dash is lighting and oil level is low. There are no observations of oil leaking at home or in parking garage at new haven, CT.

What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? the car began stalling and started to become unresponsive while I was driving to work. While I was not 100% sure of what component was malfunctioning at the time, I suspected that it might be a timing chain problem because I had this same exact issue happen to to this car back in January 2025. I did not expect this issue to occur again because at the time of the previous problem, the dealership confirmed that issue was the timing chain and the vvt system, and replaced those components with new parts. How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? the car started stalling and sputtering, then became unresponsive while I was driving. If I were in a high-traffic area, I'm not confident that I would have been able to accelerate, stop, or safely pull over to the side of the road without putting myself and/or someone else in harms way. Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? yes, the car is currently at the dealership and they confirmed that the issue is the timing chain and the vvt system. Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others? yes, the car is currently at the dealership and they confirmed that the issue is the timing chain and the vvt system. Were there any warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, and when did they first appear? no, there were absolutely no warning lights, messages, or symptoms prior to the failure.

See all problems of the 2018 Hyundai Elantra 🔎.

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.

I've owned a 2017 Hyundai Elantra for a few years now, and it has been a headache. Over the course of the past year and a half, the engine has went out (seized) not once, not twice, but three times without any warning. I go to start the car one day and the engine bay starts shaking and power of the engine goes either completely out or down significantly. It feels like a gamble every few months of if my car will simply stop working. I've had the engine rebuilt twice already and will probably have to have it rebuilt again for the same issue (the timing).

The contact owns 2017 Hyundai Elantra. The contact stated while driving 20 mph and depressing the accelerator pedal, the vehicle hesitated and stalled. The check engine warning light and the low coolant level warning light were illuminated. The contact stated that a bystander assisted in pushing the vehicle into a parking lot. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that the camshaft needed to be replaced. Additionally, the dealer diagnosed that the continuously variable valve timing (cvvt) and the timing chain needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact related the failure to NHTSA campaign number: 21v727000 (engine); however, the model of the vehicle was not included in the recall. The dealer notified the manufacturer of the failure and was informed that the cost of the repair would not be covered because the VIN was not included in the recall. The failure mileage was 99,112.

The gas pedal, would not work as I was trying to accelerate when going from the ramp onto the freeway. The pedal had no pump in it, it just went all the way down as I was trying to press and the car started slowing down. I had to pull over on the side of the freeway and restart the car for the pedal to start working again. I came to the dealership the next day on 12/5/25, at around 5:45pm in which I was scheduled to come back at 8am on 12/6/25. My safety was at risk, because the car lost pedal power for me to pickup speed as I merged onto the freeway. I brought it in for inspection, at the dealership I purchased it from. There were not any signals or displays that came on during the incident.

See all problems of the 2024 Hyundai Elantra 🔎.

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).

This has happened twice. I brought it to Hyundai in syracuse and they said they could not find a problem. The problem: while driving the car loses power, when pressing the gas pedal the car stops propelling forward. Safety: the car randomly loses power while driving. This could happen when pulling out onto a highway or railroad tracks etc. Problem been reproduced: it has not been reproduced by a dealer. It's happened twice randomly in the 2 years I've had the car. I did bring it to Hyundai in syracuse NY but they said they didn't find an issue. Inspection: Hyundai in syracuse NY checked the car for an issue. No police or insurance. Warning/messages: there were no messages or warnings before it lost power.

See all problems of the 2023 Hyundai Elantra 🔎.

I have a 2018 Hyundai Elantra with about 155k miles. It has been consuming oil excessively and has developed serious drivability issues. If I try to accelerate even slightly harder than normal—especially above 2,000 rpm—it makes a metallic, chain-type rattling noise, loses power, and produces heavy smoke from the exhaust. The smoke sometimes continues even after shutting the engine off and restarting. Because of this, I’ve been avoiding rapid acceleration and slowly working up to highway speeds. The car also periodically shakes at idle, idles higher than normal at times, and the rpms will occasionally rise on their own. In the past it has stalled randomly, and sometimes it feels like the transmission is “stuck” and won’t shift properly. Despite all this, there are currently no check-engine codes. This is terrible and clearly there’s been lawsuits and other recalls regarding the same issue and same engine but nothing for mine? I am out of warranty and had no clue the amount of issues the car was going to have until last year and I’m screwed now, insurance doesn’t cover issues with the engine or transmission. Neither will Hyundai?! last year Hyundai performed a cvvt repair that cost about $6,000, which temporarily improved things, but the symptoms returned shortly afterward. When I brought it back, they said they couldn’t recreate the issue. The car is now out of warranty. Separately, the car was stolen two months ago due to the immobilization fault and tik toks videos and the police said it has been hundreds of these Elantras stolen and destroyd and the ignition and wiper control switch/harness were damaged, which still hasn’t been repaired.

The car was being driven nomore than 1hr. It began to smoke under the hood. The abs emergency brake light, check engine then the eps lights were on. The vehicle was pulled over and stopped. Fire was then observed falling from under the car. The hood was then popped to see the engine mainly on the driver side was totally catching fire. Then it spread. The engine needle never showed over heated. The car took no more than 6 minutes to catch fire from the time it started smoking. It was very scary.

See all problems of the 2008 Hyundai Elantra 🔎.

While driving, pressing the accelerator pedal, the vehicle hesitated and stalled. No warning lights came on until after I attempted to turn the vehicle back on then the check engine light and low oil light were illuminated. My vehicle was towed to a local mechanic and I was informed that the engine was blown and to tow my car to a Hyundai dealership as I was still under the 10 year/100k mile warranty. After getting my car to Hyundai, I was told I had to get a combustion cleaning for $800 whether the cleaning worked or not before any warranty work could be completed. The cleaning did not work and it was then found that a pin was sheared off inside the engine. My engine was then replaced under warranty but I still had to pay for the cleaning. A second mechanic looked over my paperwork after getting my car back 2 months later and noted that the engine failure could have been diagnosed without the cleaning as the cleaning would not have affected where the pin was sheared off. My 2017 Elantra had 90,315 at the time of this incident.

The contact owns a 2019 Hyundai Elantra. The contact stated that while stopped in traffic with the vehicle idling, the vehicle vibrated, and the check engine warning light illuminated. The contact stated that for the rest of the drive, the vehicle failed to accelerate as intended while depressing the accelerator pedal. While the contact was entering a driveway, the vehicle stalled. The contact waited for several minutes before being able to restart the vehicle. The contact then drove to the residence. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed with engine failure. The independent mechanic informed the contact that the engine was making an abnormal rattling sound and the piston oil ring had failed. The vehicle was not repaired; however, an oil change was performed. The contact called the local dealer and was informed that there were no recalls associated with the VIN. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 126,000.