Engine And Engine Cooling Problems of Hyundai Elantra - part 2

I am writing to formally report a safety concern regarding my 2018 Hyundai Elantra. The vehicle has experienced a failure of the heater hose/pipe, which appears to be made of plastic and connected to a metal component. This failure has resulted in a coolant leak, creating a serious risk of engine overheating. This issue is not only inconvenient but also dangerous. A sudden loss of coolant while driving can cause the engine to overheat without warning, potentially leading to engine failure, loss of vehicle control, or leaving the driver stranded in unsafe conditions. This is especially concerning while driving on busy roads or highways. Based on my experience and discussions with repair professionals, this appears to be a known issue with this model, as the part is not widely available outside of Hyundai/kia and may indicate a design flaw. A critical cooling system component should not fail prematurely under normal driving conditions. Given the safety risks associated with this defect, I believe this issue warrants further investigation and consideration for a recall or extended warranty coverage. Consumers should not be responsible for costly repairs caused by a potentially defective design. I respectfully request that Hyundai review this issue and provide assistance with the repair, as well as take appropriate action to ensure the safety and reliability of affected vehicles. Sincerely, [xxx] information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u. S. C. 552(b)(6).

See all problems of the 2018 Hyundai Elantra 🔎.

Car shut off multiple times while driving including coming to complete stop on the freeway in traffic.

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I am submitting a vehicle safety complaint regarding a vehicle purchased on March 5, 2026. Within days of purchase, the vehicle exhibited multiple safety-related issues despite reportedly passing a virginia safety inspection on February 27, 2026. The safety concerns identified include: - driver-side headlight partially inoperable, which resulted in a traffic stop on March 15, 2026 - front hood not properly secured/latching, creating a risk of opening while driving - no engine oil present upon inspection shortly after purchase - coolant reservoir completely empty - check engine light illuminated shortly after purchase diagnostic testing following the check engine light revealed code p0420 (catalyst system efficiency below threshold). A mechanic advised that this condition is not a new issue and would have developed over time, indicating that it likely existed prior to the sale of the vehicle. At the time of purchase, the vehicle had an outstanding manufacturer safety recall identified as NHTSA recall no. 23v651000 (recall #251), dated April 3, 2024. This recall had not been completed prior to sale and was only addressed on March 24, 2026, after I took the vehicle to a Hyundai dealership. Additionally, the vehicle was subject to a manufacturer campaign identified as campaign #p33, dated December 15, 2025. This further indicates that the vehicle required manufacturer-related service that had not been fully addressed prior to sale. An independent inspection conducted on March 16, 2026 confirmed conditions inconsistent with a vehicle that had recently passed a safety inspection. These issues raise serious concerns about the safety, inspection integrity, and roadworthiness of the vehicle at the time it was sold. I am requesting that this matter be reviewed for potential safety-related concerns and any related violations. I am available to provide supporting documentation, including inspection reports, diagnostic results, service records, and photographic evidence.

See all problems of the 2015 Hyundai Elantra 🔎.

While driving on an interstate on March 12, 2026, the engine stopped working requiring that the car be pulled over to the side of the road. There were no indications of issues as oil had been regularly changed, and the battery and tires were replaced in fall of 2025. The check engine and oil lights all flashed at the time of the incident, not before. Fortunately, we were able to pull over to the side of the highway, and a tow truck brought the car to a service center. The initial diagnosis was that the seal on the crankcase failed. The service center, and now the Hyundai dealer, do not know the cause of this catastrophic damage that may result in the need for a full engine replacement.

See all problems of the 2013 Hyundai Elantra 🔎.

Noticed symptoms about a week before I had it towed to a garage for what I thought was a timing chain tensioner, tech scoped it and found out it was much worse.

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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.

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My 2019 Hyundai Elantra with the 2. 0l engine experienced sudden engine failure at 164. 809 miles. The check enqine light came on and the vehicle immediately lost power and shut off. 0i was visible in the wheel well and the engine now has a tapping noise suggesting internal damage I understand that hvundai recalled certain 2019 Elantra models due to improperly heat-treated piston oil rings that could cause engine damage. Because the symptoms of my failure match this defect, I am requesting Hyundai review this as a potential defect-related enaine failure and consider goodwill assistance or engine replacement.

A significant engine failure occurred while driving, presenting as loud knocking from the engine. The issue developed without prior warning lights or messages. The vehicle was inspected by a dealership and the problem was confirmed as internal engine failure (piston slap/engine knock). The dealership recommended full engine replacement. The engine is available for inspection upon request. There was no evidence of sludge or lack of maintenance noted during inspection. The most recent oil change had been performed less than 1,000 miles prior to the failure, indicating the issue was not caused by lack of maintenance. This condition creates a safety concern due to the potential for sudden engine failure, loss of power, or engine seizure while driving, which could increase the risk of an accident, especially at highway speeds. The issue has been confirmed by a dealership and has not been repaired due to cost.

The engine defected at 82000 I had it for a year can u guys please make it right as a valuable customer.

Engine began sputtering really bad and the check engine light came on. I brought the vehicle to the dealership that I purchased it from and they recommended a fuel system flush and change the spark plugs. I had them change the spark plugs and the check engine was cleared but still sputtered a bit. So I brought it to my mechanic who does most of my work and his diagnosis was that oil was blowing by and to not drive it and have towed to Hyundai cause they've been seeing all kinds of engine problems on Hyundai's and that they since the warranty was 100k miles and I had just reached 104k miles that they may fix it. It is currently at Hyundai dealership being diagnosed. *I was driving on the interstate when engine began shaking in the middle of rush hour traffic making it difficult to pull over to see if I could see anything. *independent mechanic replicated and said to not drive the vehicle. *Hyundai is currently inspecting the vehicle now. *check engine light came on after the violent sputtering of the engine.

See all problems of the 2023 Hyundai Elantra 🔎.

2019 Elantra has been experiencing oil loss. The last oil change on 14 Feb 2026 at 57400 miles. Checked the oil today 16 Feb 2026 after 266 miles and it was a quart low. It appears that oil consumption is a know issue with Hyundai year and model.

The contact owns a 2023 Hyundai Elantra. The contact stated that while the vehicle was at a full stop, the brake pedal was released, and the vehicle surged forward before the accelerator pedal was depressed. The contact stated that the failure was intermittent. There were no warning lights illuminated. The contact had taken the vehicle to a local dealer, who was unable to duplicate the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 15,000.

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.

Car check engine light illuminated and car began shaking and stalled at 79284 miles. Local mechanic said engine was dry and would need full replacement, no dashboard lights indicating oil level or engine issues prior to this point.

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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.

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2019 Hyundai Elantra (VIN: [xxx]) suffered engine failure at 152,061 miles — abnormal knocking, loss of power, towed to clay cooley Hyundai of sherman, TX. Diagnosed with crank/rod knock requiring long block replacement. This is the exact failure progression documented in NHTSA recall 21v301 (Hyundai recall 203): defective piston oil rings causing cylinder bore scuffing, accelerated oil consumption, connecting rod bearing failure, and engine block damage. Coverage was denied solely due to mileage — 2,061 miles beyond the 150,000-mile threshold. I am also reporting a critical discrepancy: a VIN search on NHTSA's website shows zero open or unrepaired recalls on this vehicle, despite the following facts: 1. This is a 2019 Elantra with a 2. 0l nu mpi engine — the exact population covered by 21v301. 2. The vehicle experienced the exact failure mode 21v301 was issued to address. 3. The dealership repair order references TSB 25-01-054h (tied directly to recall 203) and performed an ecm software update under that bulletin during this visit. It is unclear whether this VIN was improperly excluded from the recall population, or whether the recall was marked remediated based solely on the software update — despite the engine already having suffered catastrophic internal damage. Either outcome warrants investigation. I am requesting NHTSA examine whether this VIN should have been included in 21v301, and whether Hyundai's practice of applying a software update to an already-failed engine and closing the recall is consistent with the intent of this safety recall. Repair estimate: $9,245. 58. Vehicle is undrivable. Information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u. S. C. 552(b)(6).

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

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.

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.

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.

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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.

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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.

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.

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.