Hyundai Elantra Complaints

8,883 consumer complaints on file.

#11731402April 15, 2026
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM, POWER TRAIN, ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
While being driven on a residential street, the vehicle suddenly displayed a 'Stop Safely' warning on the dashboard. Upon an attempted restart, the vehicle suffered a total electrical blackout and complete loss of propulsion power while in the middle of a live roadway. All internal and external lights, steering assistance, and power systems failed simultaneously. The vehicle was manufactured in 2025 and has been out of service since March 16th. The dealership (Napleton Downtown Hyundai) is attributing this total system collapse to 'bad fuel' to deny warranty coverage, despite the failure being a catastrophic high-voltage electrical shutdown. This incident created an immediate safety hazard for the driver and other motorists, leaving the vehicle stranded and unresponsive in traffic
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11731101April 14, 2026
EXTERIOR LIGHTING, ENGINE, STRUCTURE:BODY
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.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11731188April 14, 2026
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
The contact owns a 2021 Hyundai Elantra. The contact stated that while driving approximately 70 MPH, there was an abnormal sound coming from the vehicle. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was towed to a dealer to be diagnosed; however, the cause of the failure was not determined. The vehicle was not repaired. The vehicle was towed back to the dealer to be diagnosed; however, the cause of the failure was still not yet determined. The vehicle was not repaired. The vehicle was towed back to the dealer, where it was diagnosed with a coolant leak, and the thermostat needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired; however, the failure persisted. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11730787April 13, 2026
ENGINE
The contact owns a 2022 Hyundai Elantra. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the check engine warning light illuminated. Additionally, there was an abnormally strong gasoline odor coming from the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic; however, the vehicle was not formally diagnosed. The contact was informed that there was a crack in the engine, causing a leak. The vehicle was then taken to the dealer, but it was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 23,825.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11730541April 11, 2026
POWER TRAIN
2013 Hyundai Sonata has a loud knocking noise from engine. Purchases 8/5/25 at 43K miles, currently at 44K miles. There is a Technical Service Bulletin, # 22-EM-009H dated June 2022 about an extended warranty but its time limit is questionable. Unknown and undocumented when purchased. Not listed as an official recall so not covered under warranty repair and the only course of action I have been given is install a new motor quoted at $15K from local Hyundai dealer. Further research shows that driving should be limited to avoid further engine issues/fires. Occurrence since January 2026. Progressively worsening. Cause for concern. Is there an official recall on for the piston flap pending? Unsure if accident noted below is due to the issue.
Crash:
Yes
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11730591April 11, 2026
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, ENGINE, UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Component or system failed: The electrical and/or engine system failed spontaneously. Gray smoke originated from under the hood, followed by black smoke and an intense fire. The vehicle is NOT available for inspection as it was declared a total loss and scrapped 30 days after the incident. Safety risk: My safety was at immediate risk as I was inside the vehicle when the fire began. Public safety was also threatened; the Bloomingdale Fire Department had to evacuate a Wendy’s restaurant and its customers for two hours due to the intensity of the fire and smoke. Confirmation of problem: The problem was confirmed as a Total Loss due to fire by the Bloomingdale Fire and Police Departments on the scene. Inspections: The vehicle was inspected at the scene by police and fire officials. No manufacturer or dealer inspection was possible because the fire occurred only 7 days after purchase and the vehicle was destroyed. Warning symptoms: There were no warning lamps, messages, or symptoms prior to the failure. The smoke appeared suddenly while the vehicle was parked and idling.
Crash:
No
Fire:
Yes
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11730460April 10, 2026
ENGINE
The contact owns a 2015 Hyundai Elantra. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle lost motive power several times, with the check engine warning light and low oil warning lights blinking. The vehicle was able to restart; however, the failure persisted. There was an abnormal tapping sound coming from the vehicle. The dealer was contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 160,000.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11730275April 9, 2026
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
THE BACK DOOR ON THE DRIVER'S SIDE DOES NOT LATCH PROPERLY. THE DOOR WILL TRY TO CLOSE BUT YOU HAVE TO KEEP SLAMMING THE DOOR UNTIL IT WILL FINALLY LATCH. I ONCE DROVE A FEW FEET AND THE DOOR HAD TO BE HELD SHUT. IT FINALLY CLOSED. THE DEALERSHIP WAS CONTACTED LAST YEAR (2025) ONCE I READ ON REDDIT THAT A TSB/EXTENDED WARRANTY WAS ISSUED. BUT I WAS TOLD THAT IT DIDN'T COVER MY VEHICLE AND IF I BROUGHT IT IN, A DIAGNOSTIC FEE AND FEE TO FIX IT WOULD BE CHARGED. SO I DO NOT OPEN THAT DOOR ANYMORE, BUT THAT IS NOT SAFE. I''M AFRAID IT WILL OPEN AT SOME POINT WHILE I AM DRIVING.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11730096April 9, 2026
ENGINE, ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, UNKNOWN OR OTHER
My mother's vehicle caught fire while in park and it’s listed under a fire-risk recall. Another car got damage with the fire. I want to open a claim.
Crash:
No
Fire:
Yes
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11730256April 9, 2026
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: ADAPTIVE CRUISE CONTROL:SOFTWARE
The contact rented a 2025 Hyundai Elantra. The contact stated that while driving 80 MPH with the cruise control activated, the braking system failed to engage, causing the contact to manually depress the brake pedal to stop the vehicle. A dealer was contacted. The vehicle was not taken to a dealer or independent mechanic to be diagnosed or repaired. The failure had occurred three times. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and opened a case. The approximate failure mileage was 10,308.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11730162April 9, 2026
ENGINE
Subject: Vehicle Safety Complaint – Engine Failure – Hyundai To Whom It May Concern, I am submitting a vehicle safety complaint regarding a serious engine failure involving my Hyundai vehicle. The engine experienced a failure significant enough to require replacement. This raises serious safety concerns, as sudden engine failure can result in loss of power while driving, increasing the risk of an accident. In addition: •Hyundai Motor America has not adequately addressed the issue •My case (#xxxx) remains unresolved despite escalation •I have experienced delays, lack of transparency, and no meaningful resolution Given Hyundai’s known history of engine-related issues, I believe this may represent a broader safety concern affecting other drivers. I respectfully request that NHTSA: 1.Review this incident as a potential safety defect 2.Investigate whether this issue is part of a larger pattern 3.Take appropriate action to ensure consumer safety I am available to provide documentation and further details if needed. Sincerely, [XXX] [XXX] [XXX] [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11729621April 7, 2026
ENGINE
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.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11729406April 6, 2026
ENGINE, FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM, POWER TRAIN
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.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11729460April 6, 2026
ENGINE
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)
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11729506April 6, 2026
ENGINE
The contact’s son owns a 2012 Hyundai Elantra. The contact stated that while the contact’s son was driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle unexpectedly stalled, and the rear of the vehicle caught fire. The contact’s son pulled the vehicle over to the side of the road, and the fire extinguished on its own. No fire or police report was filed. The contact was informed by local police that a trail of oil had leaked from the contact’s son’s vehicle while driving. The vehicle was towed to the dealer. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and refused to replace the engine under an unknown related engine recall. The approximate failure mileage was 80,000.
Crash:
No
Fire:
Yes
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11729557April 6, 2026
ENGINE
My vehicle has a piston slap ticking issue and Hyundai will not help me fix this because it’s a common issue by Hyundai.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11729565April 6, 2026
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM, ENGINE
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 !
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11729082April 3, 2026
ENGINE
my car was going uphill and would only go about 15 up hill and would not accelerate, no lights came one to indicate any issues, then it started driving properly. Then after about 4 min it just died, in the middle of a busy intersection during rush hour. the check oil, engine and battery lights came on. Then after turning off car it came back on and all the lights disappeared but happened exact same way after 3 more min. Both times the lights went off. Now it trys to turn on but stalls right away and the check engine light is one. After taking to the dealer they stated that there was no oil in the engine. There are also no visible leaks to explain no oil. And 3 timing codes came up as a result of this. They conducted my routine oil change and still the codes came up and the car failed to start. In addition to all of this there is a knocking noise. I have an engine like those that have been recalled in the past but my particular VIN was not part of that recall. I have always done my oil changes at Hyundai dealer and on a regular schedule. This sounds to me like the same issue the other same types of engines had.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11728976April 3, 2026
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: WARNINGS, LANE DEPARTURE: ASSIST
Electrical component with car has been malfunctioning. ADAS system malfunctioning (all the lights on the dash have been coming on in and out at different times) despite turning the car on and off. Video and picture evidence has been collected on different days and times this issue has been happening. Blinkers do not work when this is happening. Concerned for safety while driving. Hyundai Dealership is not helping and blowing me off.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11728934April 2, 2026
AIR BAGS, FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: WARNINGS
I no longer have this vehicle, as I traded it in once I was able to lower some of my negative equity. During owning the 2020 Hyundai Elantra, a deer it the side of my vehicle and knocked me into the center of the road while I was driving. No airbags had come out, nor was any sensor activated. About 6-8 months later, I was driving down the same road and a deer had run across the road. The forward collision sensor did not alert me (I was paying attention to the road, but would have absolutely heard it), and my airbags did not deploy. My car suffered over $9,000 in damage and I had a concussion.
Crash:
Yes
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0

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