2014 Hyundai Elantra’s Problems Include Serious Engine Issues, Defective Components, and Single Recall Over Brake Pedal

Jan 22, 2022

The 2014 Hyundai Elantra has a single recall and investigation, but neither relates to the numerous engine-related complaints, which include failure and potential fires.

Key Points

The 2014 Hyundai Elantra has 225 complaints filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), and 88 relate to engine failure and may involve a potential fire hazard.
No recall has been issued for the Elantra’s engine problems, but a class-action lawsuit was filed and settled that offers some remediation for owners.
Only one recall has been issued for the 2014 Elantra over a deteriorating brake pedal stopper, which can allow the gear shifter to shift without the brake being pressed.
An investigation remains open into the Elantra’s electronic throttle control system, which includes the 2014 model year and can cause unexpected acceleration and surging.
Behind engines, complaints about the Elantra’s steering are also prevalent. The most concerning of these concerns the steering wheel locking in the center position.

2014 Elantra’s Engine Failure is Significant and Potentially Dangerous

While Hyundai has a reputation for building practical and affordable cars, it has also developed a reputation for significant engine issues. At present, there have been 225 complaints filed with the NHTSA for the 2014 Elantra, and 88 relate to the engine, specifically the 1.8-liter four-cylinder option.

Some owners reported that their Elantra’s engine began making a ticking or knocking noise before experiencing sudden loss of power, ultimately leading to complete failure. In extreme cases, it could potentially lead to fire. In many instances, owners noted not seeing any warning lights illuminated when experiencing these issues, and many noted their engine was properly maintained.

Some 2014 Hyundai Elantra owners claim that the ticking or knocking (referred to as piston slap) occurs when the engine is cold. The piston slap may happen if the piston head isn’t secured in the cylinder, allowing the piston edges to collide with the cylinder wall. A side effect of piston slap is oil sludging. This can occur even if owners regularly change the oil, and has occurred with only a few thousand miles on the vehicle.

While no recall was released by Hyundai for the Elantra’s engine, a class-action lawsuit was filed against the automaker for the 1.8-liter engine and includes the 2014 Elantra. According to the lawsuit, the Elantra’s engine suffers from a defect that can cause engine seizure and stalling.

As a result, a settlement agreement was approved and extended the Elantra’s engine warranty for up to 140,000 miles, as well as reimburse for past repairs, rental car, and towing expenses.

Recall Issued over Deterioration of 2014 Elantra’s Brake Pedal Stopper

In November 2017, Hyundai recalled certain 2013-2014 Elantra sedan, coupe, and GT vehicles, a total of 390,467, because the brake pedal stopper pad may deteriorate. This can cause the brake light switch plunger to remain extended when the brake pedal is released and allow the brake lights to remain illuminated continuously.

In addition, deterioration of the brake pedal stopper may allow the shift lever to be moved without depressing the brake pedal, or activate the engine management brake pedal override feature.

To rectify this problem (and mitigate the risk of a crash), Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will replace the brake pedal stopper pad at no expense to owners.

Hyundai Elantra’s Speed Control Problem Triggers NHTSA Investigation

The NHTSA opened an investigation in November 2021 into alleged defect(s) in the electronic throttle control system of several Hyundai and Kia models and model years.

Apparently, the Elantra may be the subject of a range of dangerous vehicle speed control problems including sudden unexpected acceleration, runaway throttle conditions, surging, stalling, and loss of motive power.

Petitioners of the investigation allege that Hyundai and Kia vehicles like the 2014 Elantra may contain defects within the throttle control systems that could create potentially hazardous driving conditions for drivers. The throttle control system contains several components, which include a throttle body with an integrated control monitor and throttle position sensor, in lieu of a traditional throttle cable.

Despite the existence of failsafe features built into these vehicles, uncommanded throttle conditions may occur. Investigation documents state fatalities and injuries have occurred as a result of these defects.

2014 Elantra Steering Complaints Are a Concern, with Some Owners Reporting Their Steering Wheels Locking in Center Position

Steering issues with the 2014 Hyundai Elantra are the second most reported complaint with the NHTSA. Owners have experienced a variety of conditions that involve difficulty maneuvering the vehicle’s steering wheel while driving.

Overall, drivers reported experiencing the steering wheel locking up in its center position, with little ability to turn left and right without aggressively tugging the wheel toward its intended position. In some instances, the power steering and traction control lights appear as a result.

Other steering complaints report an issue with the steering wheel continuously spinning in a circle after attempting to make a left turn. Some vehicles were diagnosed with a faulty rack and pinion and clockspring (electrical connector between steering and electrical systems) because of this. Steering issues on the 2014 Hyundai Elantra have been reported with only a few thousand miles on the odometer.

Engine Problems and Defective Components Make the 2014 Elantra a Questionable Buy

The significant engine issues with the 2014 Hyundai Elantra its class-action lawsuit settlement may be enough reason to steer clear of buying one. Engine problems appear inevitable, and the fact that they could lead to engine failure and even fire further supports this.

Even if an Elantra is covered and repaired under Hyundai’s engine warranty extension, quality control issues with the existence of a widespread recall of the brake pedal stopper and ongoing investigation into the vehicle’s electronic throttle control system, which can compromise passenger safety, are concerning. It may be best to find an alternative compact sedan to the 2014 Elantra.

Photos: Hyundai

Frequently Asked Questions

By Josh Barrett | Jan 22, 2022

Is the 2014 Hyundai Elantra a Good Car?

As a whole, the 2014 Hyundai Elantra is a good sedan that delivers as much as 30 mpg combined. Reliability has improved since the previous model years. The interior is pleasant and comfortable for the price. The IIHS named it a Top Safety Pick and gave it a "Good" rating for its overall crashworthiness.

Owner Reviews

Write a Review

PeedOffLadyWhoWasSwindledIntoPurchase on July 15, 2023

Brakes, wheels, and oddities.

First and second hand Hyundai here, never again. Brake recall, eh... I'm sure my 2014 Elantra could go for one every year as I need to replace them every six months to a year. Now the traction and ABS lights are popping off and on, car stalls, and grinds gears when touching my brakes every now and then. I can change the brakes and within two weeks the sounds begin. Imagine taking a knife and pot, hold the knife point against the inside of the pot, now make a circular motion moving the knife around the inside of the pot. That's one of the many problems. Had a recall recently for a stupid undercoating for the brake issues. Like that's going to help in a year's time when it's worn off. What is wrong with these car companies? Second issue is the axles or suspension. Feels like the car is jumping all over the road. If I hit a bump, the car jumps to the left or right. It feels like your wheels are about to detach from each side to take their own path. Also, the car drives better without traction control. Almost crashed using control this past winter. I feel uncomfortable and unsafe in this car. Never had this feeling with my 1995 Sunfire, 1998 & 2001 Cavalier, or 2017 G5. Lastly is idiotic things like the sunglasses holder magnet is done and it always pops open. Not to forget that you must have either AC or heat on at all times. It has to be on a setting, there is no completely shut off button. So if your AC is busted, well, enjoy extra heat all summer long because it has to be on via defrost, windshield, floor, etc. Then when you open your sunroof, there's that light annoying whistling screeching sound like tinnitus flowing through your ears.

KLM on November 7, 2022

2014 Hyundai elantra is a death trap

I purchased this vehicle new in 2014. Within 2 years it started having problems with the ESC system with the car slowing down when I was trying to merge with oncoming traffic. I was run off the road repeatedly and honked at alot. The original dealer was no help. I learned via the internet how to turn off the ESC system to drive the car manually. The car slowed itself down while I was driving on icy roads causing it to slide into reflection poles; my first "at fault" accident. It spent months at a dealer with engineers trying to resolve the problem; they couldn't and gave the car back to me to try their upgrade. No change. The car also would surge unexpectedly which resulted in a second accident when it hit some parking poles. Next it started to just stop running while driving. I was so afraid someone would hit me. These problems continued for years with no solution by Hyundai. Eventually the car was paid off and Hyundai refused to accept responsibility for the LEMON they sold me. My insurance rates have tripled. I was so afraid I would die driving the car that I traded it in. I would never buy a Hyundai again because they don't stand behind the product. You have to sue them.

Heather on March 22, 2023

Loved my 2014 Hyundai Elantra GT and then...

I bought my 2014 Hyundai Elantra GT in 2016 through BHCU because they had certain "deals" going on for Boeing employees and I didn't have a lot of money to play with. Anyway, the car was used as a rental for Enterprise and had 40,000 miles on it, which made me nervous but I fell in love with it after the test drive. She ran like a champ with nice acceleration and a smooth ride. It's now March 2023 and I have babied my car, only putting 40,000 miles on it in 7 years and keeping up with maintenance and yesterday, without warning, she let out a loud screech and just died. The past few weeks there has been a knocking and I've noticed oil keeps running low but no leaks. I've been topping it off and was setting up an appointment for this weekend but she didn't make it. I'm devastated as it's already been a hard year financially along with losing a few loved ones so I'm really at the end of my rope here. Is there any way someone who is not the first owner could get in on that lawsuit? I'm just so tired of getting fed bullshit by dealerships. 😞

Sara T on September 8, 2023

I really like my 2014 Ela GT

It had an engine replacement a year after I purchased it, but it was replaced for free since it was under guarantee, and it has had no engine problems since then. The car is 9 years old now and it has 66000 miles on it. The battery was replaced last year for the first time (not bad at all) and I've replaced the 4 tires twice now, which is a bit annoying, but not out of the ordinary. I take it for regular oil changes. I have no problems with the acceleration rate, mine has a manual transmission so the 2.0 L engine copes nicely with 1st and 2nd gears. I haven't had any significant electrical problems until recently when the FOB receiver in the car is acting up. Even then, pressing the Start button with the FOB starts the car and I'm not getting rid of it until it completely falls apart. I also really like the feature that when the seats are abated the hatchback is long enough to fit me so I can take a nap if I need to. It is not a luxury car, but it has been functional, useful and capable as far as I'm concerned.

Rick on March 31, 2024

2014 Hyundai Elantra GT (manual)

2014 Elantra GT clutch started slipping very noticeably at ~87,000 miles (~140,000 km). I hardly ever use my clutch, only from full stops. So it can't be worn out. I have been driving standard cars & Big Rigs (and motorcycles) for over 45 years. I drove 13 to 18 speed (manual) trucks (Big Rigs) for 25 years (without using clutch). I'm also a Safety Manager/Instructor/Examiner for Big Rig Truck Drivers... So I am very certain I know how to use (and not use) a clutch. Further, I had two (2) manual 1990 & 1994 Honda Civics for 20 years each. I had a manual 2004 Hyundai Accent 10 years... No clutch problems. Ever. The car was great until now. Only did oil changes & filters. Ran fine.

Steve on December 17, 2023

2014 Hyundai Elantra coupe never again

I bought2014 Hyundai coupe in April used and drove vehicle for two months car went into a limp mode had it towed to circle Hyundai and they said it was a camshaft and timing chain pin after countless fight with third party warranty company they did not cover anything car had 106,000 dealer fixed car could not release it back to me due to scorn cylinder in 1 and 3 cylinder Hyundai North America said they could not help out at all $7500 dealer could not believe they did not help reached out three times for help and rejected this car has to many problems and is not a reliable car I always thought Hyundai was a good car but I am wrongI will never buy one again what a nightmare

DTF on February 28, 2024

2014 Elantra GT--A GREAT CAR

I have had this car since July 2014 and it has never given me problems. No engine issues, transmission issues, brake issues, or panorama sunroof issues. In a word, this car has been one of the best I have ever owned. No recalls for the 2.0 Engine and no issues that have kept me from driving every day. I have 73,500 miles on it now and the only thing I have replaced are the tires and battery. Also, the GPS went wonky and had to be fixed. Other than that, nothing. I am selling the car though, because we are moving out of the country. Love this car, though.

Suzanne on July 13, 2021

Can't find the problem

This is the problem I've been having since January/19. I start my car in the morning then I will stop for about 10 minutes and I noticed that when getting out I can't lock my doors and if I try to start my car after 15 minutes it won't start. I have to wait at least 1hour to be able to start my car. But if I stop again during the day the car will start. It's only when I first start it during the day. The battery was checked and no problem there. The mechanic at Hyundai checked it out and could not find the problem.

David Hunt on March 10, 2023

Engine Failure

I purchased a 2014 Hyundai Elantra used with 61,000 miles. It was fine up until I reached 80,000 miles and then I heard a ticking/rattling sound. Dealer said I have heavy cylinder wall scoring due to piston slap and gave me an estimate of $9,000 to replace the engine. So far I have had no luck filing a case with Hyunda so I have now reached out to BBB auto line for help. I have kept up on the maintenance of the car and I even contacted the prior owner who said they also kept the car well maintained.

Amber on October 18, 2021

Not as reliable as my former Hondas

Has worked fine with the exception of often and randomly just revving up rpms on its own while driving in normal conditions even on my 35 mph road to my house. BUT, quite suddenly, despite regular maintenance, the transmission has gone out. The car only works in reverse now, and I’m the second owner making the warranty void at this point. With estimates of $4500-$7300 to repair, it’s definitely not worth it. At 8 years old, it shouldn’t have died so quickly.

Bill B on April 1, 2022

Starting issue and then signal

I have had a problem with the turn signals the indicator stays on and with not flash or work I have replaced the bulb front and rear many times it work for a day or two and then stays on the bulbs are always good not burnt out . Also I have a starting problem I start it drive to the store 10 minutes away when I come out of will not start . If I wait a bit of will eventually start again it very frustrating

Christina H on June 28, 2021

My total dislike of a Hyundai and I will Never buy another one

Doesn't have a spare when you need it. It's a cheap car but everything else costs more than any other car I have had. Parts cost way more than they should. For a cheap car the parts (light bulbs, wipers, etc) shouldn't cost a lot to replace. My wipers were over $30 to replace. It has 4 or 5 different bulbs that have to be replaced. The turn signals work when they want to.

Jean on October 23, 2022

Engine fail at 49000 miles

My 2014 Elantra had to have the rnginr replaced at 49000 miles due to a defect, acceleration is poor in car, actually dangerous when getting into the highway, car has stalled for no reason multiple times, terrible customer service with Hyundai corporate and dealership, would not recommend after how corporate has dealt with customer complaints and serious issues

A. Divine on August 23, 2022

Can I still join the lawsuit/ who can I contact

I'm still paying a $ 10,000 loan for 2014 elantra I no longer own because the engine blew. Hyundai refused to do anything at the time because we were 1000 miles over the warranty. They kept the car for 6 weeks trying to determine what happened and ultimately said they don't know why it blew but they could do nothing for us. Now I see we aren't the only one.

Robert L on October 28, 2021

It is a cheaply made car.

The interior is cheaply made. Not many mechanical issues but everything just feels done as absolutely cheap as possible. The sunglasses holder that pops down near the rear view mirror will not stay up during warmer months. Causes a major safety risk for the driver when it does come down. Also recently the power windows go down without being touched.

robin l on January 21, 2022

It has too many blind spots, its is a lemon and I wish I had never bought it

The headlight sensor does not work right. It will be sunny at bright and the lights come on dimming the interior panel lights. It will be raining and gray and I have to manually turn the lights on. The fuel sensor does not work. The tires keep losing pressure making me have to go get them filled at least once a month.

Kt C on September 13, 2021

The wipers don't always work

Things are breaking Paint is oxidizing and there is no Bluetooth hook up for myself own. Water fills up in my headlights. The seats are old and the fabric is starting to tear apart. The steering wheel is cracking and starting to come apart. The air-conditioner no longer works and it's too much to fix.

Charlie S on January 25, 2022

It's just plain car, economical but used up.

Makes loud brake sound, had to change windshield have to pump air into tire when cold, gas mile is decent can drive close to 400 miles, small fuel capacity 11 gallons, it only has 65000 but doesn't look like it's making beyond 100 000, low end car cheap compared to Toyota Honda brand.

Chelsee M on July 22, 2021

Nothing good about a 2014 Hyundai Elantra.

The beige cloth interior is the worst. The car is not reliable and anytime I attempt to contact Hyundai they will not respond. The seat warmers broke and the sunglasses holder blocks my vision in the rear view window because it is broken too. I would not recommend buying a Hyundai.

Bernadette M on July 19, 2021

2014 Hyundai Elantra issues.

The check engine light comes on every winter and they cannot figure out why. Honestly aside from that, it is not a bad vehicle. Nothing special as far as looks go but it is a nice decent car. I will probably never buy a Hyundai again though because of the check engine light issues.

Michelle M on December 25, 2021

Great car with little problems.

My car is pretty reliable but I do notice if it has transmission issues sometimes. Like when I am stopping at a stoplight it might vibrator shimmy a little. Also I noticed that my blinking lights in my headlights need to be replaced a little bit more often than usual.

Annabella D on January 25, 2022

A few problems with our 2014 Elantra

The car is great however, when I first initially got the car it had problems back and forth for months with the Hyundai dealership. At first electrical problems with wiring and the lights and within the first week the tires had to be changed because it had old tires.

Hilda callente on January 13, 2024

Bad engine failure can cause fire

Had 2 recalls done knock sensor decetion software update and Anti theft software upgrade and now my 2014 hyundai has the check engine light on and it won't exceed over 30mph and the bad news is hyundai repair service caused it when they did those recalls

WInslow Thrill on January 9, 2023

That ticking time bomb thing

My 2014 Elantra - the 6th Hyundai my family had owned - developed the Tick of Death at about 10k miles. Our dealer estimated a $4k cost to diagnose and about the same to repair. Not very sensible on a car with $6k value. We moved over to Subaru.

Tom Furneaux on June 2, 2023

2014 Elantra no issues great car original owner

I have 2014 Hyundai Elantra, I have had zero issues with it and am the original owner. I have just under 80,000 miles and have done routine Maintenace with it. Tires, oil, air filters, some bulbs and batteries. A great car. I would buy again.

Lauren M on October 24, 2021

Good car, but faulty fuse.

The problem that I find with my 2014 Hyundai Elantra is that there is a recall on the brakes, for starters. Secondly, my blinker constantly has a faulty fuse and my 'change bulb' light randomly comes on and stays for however long.

Sarah E on October 19, 2021

Basic car with basic problems

Basic vehicle inside and out. Struggles on hills and sometimes when shifting. Heater or air conditioning is either full blast or barely on. Music does not work while in reverse. Sunglass holder falls down on own all the time

sean on February 9, 2022

No problems original owner

I'm the original owner of my 2014 coupe @ over 115,000 miles .had to replace the battery twice and i have only changed the oil on a regular basis as well as tires, did not even need the recall for the brake stopper

Gigi on March 7, 2023

Engine knocking on my Hyundai Elantra 2014 with 88,000 kilometers.

The Hyundai dealer gives me one option and that is to replace the engine for 6,700.00 dollars with only one year guarantee. Not sure if it is a risk to have it done. I anyone has suggestions please let me know.

Mark S. on August 5, 2022

2014 elantra coupe 2.0l

We are the second owners of the car. 120k miles and hardly any issues. Did all the normal maintenance that you'd expect on a car with those Mike's and it has treated us right. Sorry all the bad ones out there.

Kat on April 7, 2022

Motor

My daughter has had this car for four years now and has had to put three motors in it. It is currently back at the dealership waiting to see if we are getting a fourth motor. I do not recommend this car

Kara F on September 21, 2021

2014 Elantra is wearing tires out fast

I like the size and look of my car, but I have had problems with the tires. I went through 4 tires in 6 months and I'm not rough on my vehicle. I live in the city and never drive on rough roads

Jill H on September 26, 2021

Annoying clicking noise in steering wheel.

Clicking sound in the steering wheel that is a known problem but no recall. So far doesn't affect steering. Issues with throttle body that makes shifting weird.

Tanya M on August 25, 2021

Blind spots are my biggest con of 2014 Elantra

The biggest issue is blind spots. The mirrors are positioned in a weird area that makes a huge blind spots which make driving in parking lots a bit difficult.

Cheri F on September 11, 2021

Engine blew up at 50,599 miles.

The engine blew up at 50,500 miles. Took 2 months to get replaced. Do not like that I cannot see the end of the hood. Creates problems when parking.

Jackie P on October 19, 2021

Sometimes it is hard to get the 2014 Elantra to start

The only problem I have encountered is in the winter sometimes it is hard to start. This seems to have started being a problem throughout the year.

jessica V on July 18, 2021

A few issues with paint and starting the 2014 Elantra

It has problems in the stick. Sometimes it wont start., the brakes are ok. The paint comes off to quickly. Sometimes the gas tank gets clogged.

Alexandria M on September 17, 2021

The problems start around 70,000 miles.

I like the gas mileage, however there’s so many problems with it. I have an electrical problem that randomly makes my car not work properly.

Jen T on October 11, 2021

A few issues with my 2014 Elantra

Problems with brake shoes, problem with alternator and power steering difficulties.

Beylla S. on April 30, 2023

A/C Issues

I’m constantly paying for repairs on A/C. It’s expensive and time consuming.

Lea G on December 20, 2021

My Elantra love and hate relationship.

Transmission and engine problems. Headlight went out a few times.

Ale O on September 6, 2021

2014 Elantra lacks power.

Not enough power. Some problems with traction control system.

Vanda K on October 24, 2021

Electronic issues with 2014 elantra

It has electric problems with the radio, buttons and screen.

Gary Scruggs on July 16, 2022

My Elantra

2014 hydundai elantra shutts off while driving no warning

Geoffrey Piehl

Geoff Piehl has been covering industry trends for many popular automotive websites for over two years. He is a longtime content creator for the IB Auto Group, and in addition to contributing to Vehicle History his byline can be found on Club Lexus and Ford Trucks.