Hyundai Elantra: The Years to Avoid

The Hyundai Elantra, known for its impressive blend of value, comfort, and style, is undoubtedly a popular choice among compact car buyers worldwide. However, just like any other vehicle, the Elantra has had its share of ups and downs over the years.

For potential buyers or current owners, it’s essential to know which model years of the Elantra have been less reliable or more prone to issues. This article provides a thorough rundown of the Hyundai Elantra years you might want to avoid, enabling you to make an informed decision about your next car purchase.

The Best Years For The Hyundai Elantra

1.     2017 Hyundai Elantra

The 2017 model initiated Elantra’s sixth generation with a bang. Apart from its eye-catching exterior styling, the car boasted a more refined ride quality, owing to a reworked suspension. Inside, the Elantra features a spacious cabin decked with high-quality materials, providing a decidedly premium feel.

The engine options also offered a desirable balance between power and fuel efficiency, while Hyundai’s decision to equip even the base models with advanced safety features like a rearview camera set a new standard in its class.

2.     2018 Hyundai Elantra

The 2018 Elantra kept up the positive momentum from the previous year, providing consumers with a reliable and well-equipped compact car. With an impressive roster of safety technology, a well-designed interior, and a smooth and quiet ride, it was both comfortable and reassuring to drive. The addition of a new SEL trim level offered even more features at an attractive price, making it a popular choice among consumers.

3.     2013 Hyundai Elantra

Even though it’s an older model, the 2013 Elantra still receives praise for its sleek design, comfortable ride, and a plethora of standard features. Notable features included heated seats, a touchscreen radio, and a rearview camera – luxuries often absent from other cars of the same era. Furthermore, it had a fuel-efficient engine and a commendably comfortable and quiet ride for a compact car.

4.     2020 Hyundai Elantra

The 2020 model continued Elantra’s commitment to safety, adding more standard safety features and improving on its already high crash test scores. It also introduced a new, more efficient continuously variable transmission (CVT). This, combined with an already efficient engine, resulted in impressive fuel economy numbers. Its roomy cabin, plenty of tech features, and comfortable ride also contributed to its popularity.

5.     2021 Hyundai Elantra

The 2021 Elantra was completely redesigned, marking the beginning of the seventh generation. It boasted a sleek, angular design that was a clear departure from its predecessors. A revamped interior provided more space and new tech, including a digital instrument cluster and an infotainment screen, all laid out in a driver-oriented design. Its fuel efficiency also improved, thanks in part to a new hybrid model. For its all-around excellence, it was awarded the 2021 North American Car of the Year.

The Worst Years For The Hyundai Elantra

1.     2011 Hyundai Elantra

The 2011 Elantra was a redesigned model that, while offering impressive fuel efficiency and a stylish design, was plagued by several issues. Engine problems were common, with numerous reports of excessive oil consumption. Other issues included brake problems, electrical system malfunctions, and a noisy engine. These issues led to several recalls and significantly lowered the model’s overall reliability rating.

2.     2012 Hyundai Elantra

Unfortunately, the following year didn’t fare much better. The 2012 model continued to suffer from the same engine issues that plagued the 2011 model. Owners often complained about problems with the engine ticking and excessive oil consumption. Moreover, this year’s model also had issues with a deteriorating suspension system.

3.     2008 Hyundai Elantra

While earlier years of the third-generation Elantra were generally well-received, the 2008 model was an exception. It was largely criticized for its lack of power and poor fuel economy. Additionally, there were numerous reports of problems with the airbags and seat belts, which led to a recall.

4.     2014 Hyundai Elantra

The 2014 model marked a minor dip in what was otherwise a good period for the Elantra. There were complaints about unstable steering and difficulties with the engine not turning over or stalling. Although these issues were not as widespread as in some other years, they still caused a fair amount of frustration among owners.

5.     2007 Hyundai Elantra

Finally, the 2007 model was infamous for its brake problems. Customers reported that their brakes would wear out unusually quickly, leading to frequent and costly replacements. Moreover, there were also issues with airbags not deploying properly in a crash.

What Years Have The Most Complaints?

Based on the number of complaints filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and other sources, the years with the most complaints for the Hyundai Elantra are:

1.     2011 Hyundai Elantra

This year stands out as the one with the most complaints, with a significant number of them related to the engine, especially excessive oil consumption and engine ticking.

2.     2013 Hyundai Elantra

Despite its many strengths, the 2013 Elantra received a high volume of complaints about brake issues and problems with the electrical and airbag systems.

3.     2012 Hyundai Elantra

Similarly to the 2011 model, the 2012 Elantra also had numerous engine-related issues, including engine ticking and increased oil consumption.

What Problems Do Hyundai Elantras Have?

The Hyundai Elantra, while generally reliable, has been associated with certain recurring problems over the years. Some of the most common issues include:

Engine Problems

Excessive oil consumption and engine ticking have been frequent complaints, particularly in the 2011 and 2012 models. In some cases, these issues have led to engine failure.

Brake Problems

Certain years, notably 2013 and 2007, have had reports of premature brake wear, leading to the need for frequent brake pads and rotor replacements.

Electrical Issues

Problems with the electrical system, including failures of the radio, headlights, and dashboard controls, have been reported over several years.

Airbag Issues

Some models, particularly the 2008 and 2013, have had problems with the airbag system, including airbags failing to deploy in a crash.

Suspension Issues

The 2012 Elantra, in particular, had numerous complaints about a deteriorating suspension system.

These issues, while significant, do not represent every Hyundai Elantra on the road. Many owners have reported a positive ownership experience with the Elantra. Always ensure to inspect any pre-owned vehicle thoroughly and consider its maintenance history before making a purchase.

What Are The Best Alternatives To The Hyundai Elantra?

Honda Civic

A perennial favorite in the compact car segment, the Honda Civic offers a blend of reliability, comfort, and performance that’s hard to beat. With its efficient engines, upscale interior, and advanced safety features, the Civic delivers a well-rounded package. Not to mention, its athletic handling and strong performance, especially in the Si and Type R models, make it fun to drive.

Toyota Corolla

Known for its excellent reliability and fuel efficiency, the Toyota Corolla is a safe choice for any compact car buyer. Its interior is comfortable and well-equipped, featuring a standard touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Plus, Toyota Safety Sense, a suite of active safety features, comes standard on all models.

Mazda3

If you value engaging driving dynamics, the Mazda3 should be on your shortlist. Known for its sharp handling and responsive steering, it brings a touch of sportiness to the compact car class. Additionally, its interior is one of the most luxurious in the segment, featuring high-quality materials and a sleek design.

Subaru Impreza

The Impreza stands out in the compact car class due to its standard all-wheel-drive system, making it an excellent choice for those in colder climates. Its interior is roomy and comfortable, and while its engine isn’t the most powerful, it delivers a smooth ride.

Kia Forte

As Hyundai’s sister brand, Kia offers the Forte as a compelling alternative to the Elantra. It has a stylish design, a high-quality interior, and a range of efficient engines. It also comes with a generous list of standard features, including an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Volkswagen Golf

The Golf offers a blend of practicality, performance, and refinement. It has a premium and spacious interior, and its turbocharged engine provides ample power. In addition, it stands out for its composed handling and comfortable ride.

Chevrolet Cruze

The Cruze is a comfortable and competent compact car with a spacious interior and plenty of trunk space. It’s particularly noted for its smooth and comfortable ride. The Cruze also offers an efficient turbo-diesel engine, which is a rarity in this class.

What Kind Of Fuel Economy Can I Expect With The Hyundai Elantra?

The Hyundai Elantra is well-known for its impressive fuel economy, one of the factors contributing to its popularity. The actual mpg can vary based on the year and the specific model of the vehicle. For example, the 2017 model, powered by a base 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, offers an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 26 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway.

The 2021 Elantra, on the other hand, comes with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that delivers an impressive 33 mpg in the city and 43 mpg on the highway, according to EPA estimates. Furthermore, the 2021 model introduced a hybrid variant that offers a stunning 53 mpg city and 56 mpg highway.

What Safety Features Can I Expect In A Hyundai Elantra?

Hyundai has always prioritized safety in its vehicles, and the Elantra is no exception. Even in older models like the 2013 Elantra, you can expect features like electronic stability control, traction control, antilock brakes, and multiple airbags. As we move to more recent years like the 2017 model, the base SE trim comes equipped with a rearview camera, while higher trims have blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert.

In the 2021 model, Hyundai added even more advanced safety features as standard, including a forward-collision warning system with pedestrian detection, lane keep assist, a driver attention monitor, and a rearview camera with dynamic guidelines.

Are There Any Performance Variants Of The Hyundai Elantra?

Yes, Hyundai has offered performance-focused variants of the Elantra. The Elantra Sport, for example, comes with a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine that delivers significantly more power than the base model. In addition, it features sport-tuned suspension and steering for a more engaging driving experience.

In the 2021 lineup, Hyundai introduced the Elantra N Line, which replaced the previous Elantra Sport. The N Line features a turbocharged 1.6-liter engine and offers sporty design touches, an enhanced suspension system, and larger brakes for better performance.

How Does The Interior Of The Hyundai Elantra Compare To Its Competitors?

The Hyundai Elantra typically offers a well-designed and comfortable interior. The 2013 model, for instance, boasted a stylish, comfortable cabin with soft-touch materials. By the 2017 model, the Elantra offered a more refined interior with a straightforward layout and user-friendly technology.

The 2021 redesign took things even further, featuring a more upscale and tech-savvy interior, with a digital instrument cluster and a larger infotainment screen. When compared to competitors, the Elantra stands out for its extensive list of standard features and comfortable seating. However, some competitors like the Mazda3 and the Honda Civic might offer a slightly more upscale finish in their top trims.

How Does The Resale Value Of The Hyundai Elantra Compare To Other Cars In Its Class?

The Hyundai Elantra’s resale value is decent but doesn’t quite match the leaders in its segment like the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla, which are known for their exceptional resale values. However, with its affordable starting price, generous warranty, and a plethora of features, the Elantra still represents a good value proposition.

What Should I Look For When Buying A Used Hyundai Elantra?

When buying a used Hyundai Elantra, pay attention to the vehicle’s maintenance history and check for any recalls that may not have been addressed. Because certain models years experienced engine problems, it’s essential to listen for any abnormal engine noises and check for oil leaks.

Similarly, because of reported brake issues, check the condition of the brakes and ask when they were last replaced. Always consider having the vehicle inspected by a trusted mechanic before purchase.

How Does Hyundai’s Warranty Compare To Those Offered By Other Automakers?

Hyundai is known for offering one of the best warranties in the industry. Their vehicles, including the Elantra, typically come with a 5-year/60,000-mile limited warranty and a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty. This is significantly longer than what many other automakers offer, which is usually a 3-year/36,000-mile limited warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty.

Hyundai’s generous warranty coverage can provide extra peace of mind, particularly for those considering a used Elantra that’s still under warranty.

How Comfortable Is The Hyundai Elantra For Long Drives?

The Hyundai Elantra is generally considered a comfortable car for long drives. The seats offer good support and plenty of legroom, and higher trims even provide heated seats. The ride is smooth and quiet, thanks to Elantra’s suspension system, which does a good job of absorbing bumps and rough roads.

Furthermore, the climate control system is effective and easy to use, and the infotainment system supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which can make long drives more enjoyable.

How Much Cargo Space Does The Hyundai Elantra Offer?

The Hyundai Elantra offers ample cargo space for a compact sedan. For instance, the 2017 model provides 14.4 cubic feet of trunk space, which is about average for the compact car class. The redesigned 2021 Elantra, however, increases this to 14.2 cubic feet, providing enough room for several pieces of luggage or shopping bags. If you need more space, the rear seats can be folded down in most models to accommodate larger items.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Hyundai Elantra has proven to be a dependable, efficient, and feature-packed compact sedan. While there have been a few notable problematic years, the Elantra generally stands as a sound investment, particularly in more recent model years.

With its blend of comfort, efficiency, and technology, the Elantra competes favorably with other top contenders in the compact car category. As with any vehicle purchase, conducting thorough research and considering your specific needs and lifestyle will help ensure you make the best choice.