The Elantra struggled with engine stalls and steering problems through much of the past decade. But the compact car’s 2010 and 2018 models enjoy strong safety ratings and have fewer complaints than the 2013 and 2017 Elantras.
Key Points
- Engine failures heralded by ticking and knocking push the 2013 Hyundai Elantra into being one of the model’s worst years.
- A bad clock spring in the 2013 Elantra is responsible for an array of problems, including a malfunctioning horn, no cruise control, and locking steering.
- Some 2017 Hyundai Elantras may suffer from similar engine issues as the 2013 model, in addition to door latches that stick.
- The 2018 Hyundai Elantra is one of the car’s all-time best years, earning top national safety scores.
- Consider the 2010 Hyundai Elantra when searching for an affordable compact car, because it pre-dates 2013’s bad clock spring issue.
Worst Years: 2013 Hyundai Elantra Has Problems with a Bad Engine, Flawed Airbag Lights, and Faulty Clock Spring
The 2013 Elantra is one of the Hyundai model’s worst years, with 956 safety complaints, three recalls, and three investigations issued by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
Of the three recalls, only one applies to the entire production run. The rubber pad on the brake pedal easily degrades, which results in the brake lights malfunctioning and either failing to illuminate or staying on even after the brake pedal is released.
Also, a troublesome airbag light represents more than 10% of consumer complaints. There are also issues with cruise control malfunctions, the horn failing to sound, and intermittent steering failure.
All these symptoms trace back to a faulty clock spring in the steering column. The issue is so pervasive, Hyundai gave the clock spring an extended 15-year warranty with unlimited mileage as the problem seems to repeat after being repaired.
1.8L Nu Engine Found in 2011-2016 Hyundai Elantras Add to Problems, With Complaints of Knocking and Even Total Failure
The next red flag features the 1.8L Nu engine found in the 2011 to 2016 Hyundai Elantra.
For the 2013 model year, the engine gathered 168 complaints as ticking, knocking, and total failure sent owners to the repair shop.
Enough people experienced problems that Hyundai settled a class-action lawsuit reimbursing drivers for the cost of engine repairs and replacement.
Other chronic issues reported by drivers at the Hyundai Forums include uneven tire wear and early brake rotor failure.
You will spend slightly more for repairs and maintenance on the 2013 model year compared to the 2011 and 2012 Hyundai Elantra, averaging around $450.
Peeling Paint and Stuck Doors Also Help to Make the 2017 Hyundai Elantra One of the Car’s Worst Years
The 2017 Hyundai Elantra is the worst year for the sedan. Though complaints dropped to a fairly average 391 in 2017, the 126 issues with the engine indicate that not all is fixed on its four-cylinder motors. Knocking, ticking, and engine replacements still prevail.
Also, peeling paint makes headlines in Hyundai chat forums, Reddit threads, and in our article titled “2017 Hyundai Elantra Paint Recalls to Know Of.” However, there are no recalls nor investigations into the issue.
The standard trims come fitted with halogen headlights, which the IIHS awarded a poor rating due to the low beam illuminating only about half the distance it should. Only the Limited features the HID projector-type lamps that are rated “Good.”
Door latches earned 20% of the NHTSA complaints over an electrical fault that causes the latch to stick open or closed. If the latch stays open, it can lead to battery drain. Hyundai extended the warranty on all door latches up to 10 years.
Best Years: 2018 Hyundai Elantra Stands Between the Old Engine Lawsuit and New Faulty Piston Rings in 2019
If you wait just one year, the 2018 Hyundai Elantra represents the best recent year for the compact sedan, scoring a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS.
Repair Pal says owners enjoy the lowest annual average maintenance costs, at just $420. Meanwhile, the ride has no recalls and less than 100 complaints, a 75% drop from the prior year.
We recommend the 2018 edition over the 2019 version. This is due to a worrying engine recall and reports of uncontrolled acceleration in the later model.
Shop Earlier and Opt for the 2010 Hyundai Elantra as the Best Year Before the Sedan Fell to Bad Engines and Clock Springs
If you are searching for an earlier Hyundai Elantra, the best choice is the 2010 model. It avoids both the bad clock spring and faulty 1.8L engine that are both found in the 2011-2014 years.
The 2010 Hyundai Elantra has only four recalls that apply to its anti-lock braking system, faulty power steering control module, and a sticking brake switch. The car is also subject to random airbag warning lights activating, which may be due to its age rather than production flaws.
Also, the 2010 Elantra earned an overall good safety rating from the IIHS, and the NHTSA gave it a perfect five stars for its crash test. It stands as the best bet for your money for an older sedan.
Find the Best Years of the Hyundai Elantra by Avoiding the 2013 and 2017 Models and Their Known Problems
If you are searching for a used Hyundai Elantra, avoid the worst years of 2013 and 2017.
The 2013 Hyundai Elantra may experience engine failure or suffer from electrical glitches.
The 2017 version may have peeling paint, stuck doors, poor lighting, and a persistent engine knock.
A 2010 Hyundai Elantra is your best bet for an older sedan. If you want a newer ride, look at the 2018 Elantra that avoids the bad pistons introduced in 2019.
Photos: Hyundai
