The Hyundai Elantra is an affordable alternative to tenured compact sedans like the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla. However, the Elantra isn’t without its problems. Check out some of the most common problems that owners reported, including transmission and engine problems. 

Does the Hyundai Elantra have engine problems?

Unfortunately for fans of the Hyundai Elantra, the model does have a history of engine problems. For instance, RepairPal says that 117 owners reported a check engine light as a result of a failed canister purge valve. The failed EVAP component affected 16 model years between 2000 and 2017. 

Moreover, the common engine issue affects Elantras with high mileage. Specifically, the average mileage for the problem is around 115,418. 

In addition to the EVAP valve failure, some Elantras might experience stalling or engine failure resulting from a faulty crankshaft angle sensor. That issue affects 17 model years: from 1992 to 1994 and 2000 to 2016. Moreover, the average mileage for the defective sensor issue is much lower, just 86,768. 

Does the Hyundai Elantra have transmission problems?

In addition to engine problems, the most commonly-reported problem for the Elantra over the last 28 years is a transmission issue. Specifically, faulty speed sensors lead to incorrect shifting in automatic transmissions with an average of 100,677 miles. 

Over 300 owners complained about the transmission problem, which pertains to 20 model years from 1995 to 2016. However, RepairPal says the sensors are simple, inexpensive, and relatively straightforward to replace.  

What is the worst model year of Elantra?

The 2013 Hyundai Elantra has the largest number of owner-reported issues on CarComplaints.com. The 2013 model has over 500 complaints and around 385 more reports than the preceding 2012 model year. Most of the complaints have to do with engine problems. 

For instance, the 2013 Hyundai Elantra has dozens of complaints about ticking noises in the engine, engine failures, and running rough. 

What are the most common problems with Hyundai?

The most common problems with Hyundai vehicles are engine or transmission-related, but they’re infrequent when considering how many of the automaker’s cars are on North American roads. Moreover, Hyundai has an industry-leading five-year, 60,000-mile basic warranty to cover issues. 

Is the Hyundai Elantra a reliable car?

Even with the abundance of owner complaints about the Hyundai model’s transmission and engine problems, the Hyundai Elantra is a reliable car in the segment. RepairPal gives the Elantra a 4.5 out of 5.0 in terms of reliability, ranking it eighth out of 36 compact cars. 

Moreover, the Hyundai model’s average annual repair cost is about $452, which ranks as excellent for the industry average. As a result, RepairPal calls the Elantra “one of the more reliable vehicles on the road.”

What do you think of the Hyundai compact car model? Tell us in the comments below!