Hyundai Elantra Problems: Panic Or Purchase?

John A
Jan 22, 2021

Since first coming onto the market three decades ago, the Hyundai Elantra has become a very popular and highly praised compact car. However, no vehicle is immune to problems, and owners of the Hyundai Elantra have reported several issues that are worth looking into before you purchase this vehicle.

What are the most common Hyundai Elantra problems?  

Owners of the Hyundai Elantra have reported several common issues, including issues such as:  

  • MPG not close to EPA estimates  
  • Engine ticking  
  • Loss of power steering  
  • Brakes making grinding noises, and more… 

Thankfully, we will take a look at each of these common problems with the Hyundai Elantra to help you decide if it’s the right choice for your next car purchase.

Maroon 2021 Hyundai Elantra from front - Vehicle History

6 Problems Common in the Hyundai Elantra

Problems with the Hyundai Elantra can be found across all model years. However, the most problematic Hyundai Elantra models seem to be the 2013 and 2012 year models.

Here is a rundown of all the issues you should be on the lookout for if you own a Hyundai Elantra.

MPG not Close to EPA Estimates

One key selling point of the Hyundai Elantra is supposed to be the vehicle’s great fuel economy. However, a great many owners of the 2013 Hyundai Elantra have reported that the vehicle’s gas mileage is not anywhere close to what its EPA estimate says that it should be.

Brakes Making Grinding Noises

Numerous owners of the 2013 Hyundai Elantra have reported that the vehicle’s brakes make strange grinding noises when they are applied. In addition to being an annoyance, noises coming from a vehicle’s brakes could be a sign of an issue that affects the vehicle’s safety.

Loss of Power Steering

Several owners of the 2008 Hyundai Elantra have reported a loss of power steering that, in some cases, renders the vehicle impossible to control. In some complaints, this issue has been said to have directly led to an accident when the power steering went out while the vehicle was in operation.

Engine Ticking

Strange ticking sounds coming from a vehicle’s engine are an annoyance on their own and can also be a sign of a more serious problem with the vehicle’s engine. Unfortunately, numerous owners of the 2012 Hyundai Elantra have reported ticking noises coming from their vehicle’s engine.

Vehicle Won’t Start

Having a vehicle that won’t start may not be a serious safety issue, but it is certainly a major inconvenience, and a great many owners of the 2013 Hyundai Elantra have reported problems with the vehicle’s electric system that cause it to fail to start.

Car Sways While Driving

A vehicle’s suspension plays an important role in keeping its handling smooth and making sure that the vehicle is easy to control. However, numerous 2012 Hyundai Elantra owners have reported a problem with their car’s suspension that causes the vehicle to sway unexpectedly while in operation.

avatar John A
John A. is a freelance writer and automotive enthusiast currently living in Myrtle Beach, SC. When he's not working, John enjoys writing fiction, practicing mixed martial arts, and joyriding in his 2018 Ford Mustang GT.
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