The 2013 Hyundai Elantra is a compact sedan with a price range of $8,044 to $12,125. Questionable reliability and high ownership costs make the Elantra a car buyers should avoid.
2013 Hyundai Elantra: Quick Overview
- New features for 2013 include coupe and GT hatchback models, upgraded technology, and the addition of the Atlantic Blue exterior color.
- Reliability ratings are poor, with more owner complaints than any other model year.
- Only one engine is available, and the motor is underpowered even for a compact car.
- Fuel economy is good, ranking 7th out of 38 vehicles with a combined rating of up to 32 miles per gallon.
- Safety ratings are excellent, getting five out of five stars in government crash tests and earning the Top Safety Pick+ award from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.
- The 2013 Elantra ranks 24th out of 39 compact cars, based on owner reviews. The Elantra’s mechanical problems alone are a reason to choose another compact car.
Expert Ratings
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Problems Does the 2013 Hyundai Elantra Have?
The 2013 Hyundai Elantra is significantly worse than other compact cars, with costly mechanical problems. 2013 is the worst year for the Elantra based on the high number of owner complaints.
Engine problems, including ticking noises in the engine and complete failures are very common. The only solution is to replace the entire engine, and costs over $4,000 depending on the local labor rates in your area.
Premature tire wear is another complaint owners have. Usually, the source of the problem is improper alignment. Replacing the tires and getting the car aligned usually costs about $700.
Grinding noise from the brakes is another common issue. Usually, the brakes will grind when there are worn-out pads or rotors. Replacing the components solves the issue, and costs around $300.
There are three recalls, which is better than other compact cars. The recalls include headliner support brackets, and the brake pedal stopper pad. Most serious is the brake pedal stopper pad, since a failure will leave the brake lights on, and can prevent drivers from shifting out of park.
What are the Prices, Models & Specs?
The 2013 Hyundai Elantra is average-priced for a compact car, with a price range of $8,044 to $12,125, depending on the model and mileage. When new, the price range was $16,965 to $21,115. Depreciation is average, dropping about 40% in value over the first five years.
- GLS is the entry-level model and comes standard with 16-inch steel wheels, cloth seating, folding rear seats, and a six-speaker stereo system with an AM/FM/CD player, AUX input, and USB connectivity.
- SE is next in the lineup with 17-inch alloy wheels, sport-tuned suspension, and body-colored trim pieces.
- Limited is the flagship model with 17-inch alloy wheels, leather seating, a power driver’s seat, heated front, and rear seats, and a seven-inch infotainment system with Bluetooth and app integration.
How Long Will the 2013 Hyundai Elantra Last?
A properly maintained 2013 Hyundai Elantra can last about 200,000 miles, which is average for the class. Shoppers should be aware of engine failures which are common around 60,000 to 100,000 miles. Regular maintenance costs including oil changes, are average for the class. Repair Pal estimates them to be $450 per year.
I have not had any reliability problems. I have had to replace the battery; it was quite expensive (I have a limited) because it was only carried at the dealership & 1 parts store. Stopped at a quick oil change place and in addition to the oil change, they topped off the fluids. Found out 2 days later that the 'blue' wiper fluid turns to gel in this car. It cost me just under $200 for the dealership to flush out that line. This should have been something told to all customers so this expense could have been avoided.
It makes a whine and the engine shifts when it wants. Other than this, no issues with the vehicle...
Yes it is very reliable. Have had no major problems. Even accidentally left a light on all night and the battery was fine in the morning.
It has a loose steering column which is kind of scary and very annoying with a knocking noise everytime the steering wheel centers, I am also not a fan of the deceleration of the car.
Yes, it is very reliable. The only problem I would say it has is the lack of 4 wheel drive. I have found that the car skids quite a bit, but that is no fault of the car necessarily, just the poor condition of the roads.
For the most part the vehicle has been pretty reliable, the only things that needed to be done where minor maintenance.
The Hyundai Elantra is reliable. I had an electrical problem in the beginning, but this only caused a vanity light to go out.
Yes it is reliable, can be difficult to drive in snow, back end tends to fishtail. Need to drive in lower gear to control vehicle,
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Technology features are very basic for the price on the entry-level models, but improve with the technology package on the limited version.
- Base technology includes a simple AM/FM/CD player with AUX and USB connectivity, as well as six speakers.
- Upgrades include a more powerful stereo system, a seven-inch infotainment system, navigation, Bluetooth, and app connectivity.
- Standard safety features include anti-lock brakes, traction and stability control, and airbags. There’s a rearview camera included with the upgraded infotainment system.
What Engine Options are Available?
One engine is available in the 2013 Hyundai Elantra, and is a 1.8L four-cylinder with 148 horsepower. Performance is weak for the class, taking 9.5 seconds to go 0 to 60 miles per hour.
What Color Options are Available?
How Big is the Elantra?
The 2013 Hyundai Elantra is offered in three body styles; a sedan, a GT four-door hatchback, and a coupe. Passenger room is good in the front seats of all three versions, but rear legroom is cramped in the sedan and coupe. Cargo space is better than some competitors with 14.8 cu. ft. in the trunk of the coupe and sedan. In the hatchback, there is 23 cu. ft. of room behind the seats, and 51 with the seats folded flat. There’s enough room to fit four suitcases in the sedan and coupe.
How Does the 2013 Hyundai Elantra Compare to Other Cars?
Ranking 24th out of 39 compact cars based on owner reviews, the 2013 Hyundai Elantra is in the lower half of the class.
Higher up in the lineup is the Honda Civic, which is in the same price range. The Civic has significantly better reliability ratings, more passenger room, and offers a sportier driving experience. Interior materials are better in the Elantra, and the suspension is also smoother. Overall, the Civic is a better choice since they do not have as many mechanical issues.
Another close competitor is the more expensive Toyota Corolla. The Corolla wins out with significantly fewer owner complaints, a more reliable engine, and roomier back seats. The upgraded technology is better in the Elantra. The Toyota is less of a headache to own, and has lower ownership costs.
Final Verdict: Is the 2013 Hyundai Elantra a Good Car?
No, the 2013 Hyundai Elantra is not a good car based on information from 1,595 owner reviews, and 17 government and automotive websites. Some positives include a luxurious interior for the price, and good fuel economy. The downsides are frequent engine failures, and a smaller interior with less passenger room than the competitors. If you’re in the market for a compact car, there are better choices available.
