Hyundai Elantra research: recalls, reliability and buyer's guide
The Elantra is Hyundai's best-selling compact sedan: roomy, efficient and well equipped for the money. 2011-2016 cars use a 1.8L (or a 173-hp 2.0L in the Sport); 2017-2020 cars add an Eco turbo and a 201-hp Sport; and the 2021-on generation offers a CVT 2.0L rated up to about 40 mpg highway, a Hybrid around 50-54 mpg combined, the N Line, and the 276-hp Elantra N. Several recalls and a free anti-theft upgrade make a VIN check essential.
Model years covered: 2011–2026. 2026 is reported as the final year of the seventh generation with a redesign expected next; verify 2026 and later specifications against current Hyundai data.
Last updated 2026-10-15.
Strengths
- Good value for the money
- Strong fuel economy
- Hybrid around 50 mpg combined from 2021
- Generous standard features
- Roomy cabin for a compact
- Performance options n line and n
- Long new car powertrain warranty for original owners
Things to know before you buy
- Recall status should be checked by VIN
- Anti theft upgrade eligibility 2011 2022
- Abs fuse recall on 2011 2015
- 2015 2016 driver airbag inflator recall
- 2019 2020 2.0 liter piston ring recall
- CVT from 2020 on the 2.0 liter
- Powertrain warranty is shorter for later owners
- Resolve engine and trim by VIN
Generations
Generation 5 (2011–2016)
The fifth-generation (MD) Elantra launched for 2011 with a 148-hp 1.8L four and 6-speed manual or automatic. A Coupe arrived for 2013, a 2014 refresh added the 173-hp 2.0L Sport and selectable steering, and 2016 added the Value Edition. 2011-2013 fuel economy ratings were restated lower in 2012.
Buyer takeaway: A low-cost, efficient used compact; the 2014-2016 refresh is the better car. Confirm the ABS-fuse recall (2011-2015), the 2015-2016 driver airbag inflator recall and the anti-theft upgrade by VIN.
Generation 6 (2017–2020)
The sixth-generation (AD) Elantra uses a 147-hp 2.0L four (6-speed manual or automatic, CVT from 2020), a 128-hp 1.4L turbo Eco with a dual-clutch, and a 201-hp 1.6L turbo Sport. A 2019 refresh restyled the car and widened driver-assist availability; 2020 made collision-avoidance and lane-keeping standard.
Buyer takeaway: For the most safety tech choose 2019-2020 (SEL and up) or any 2020; for fun, the Sport. On 2019-2020 2.0L cars confirm the piston-ring recall and software.
Generation 7 (2021–2026)
The seventh-generation (CN7) Elantra brought bold styling, a 147-hp 2.0L with a CVT, the first Elantra Hybrid (139 hp, about 50-54 mpg combined), the 201-hp N Line and, from 2022, the 276-hp Elantra N. The N Line manual ended after 2022, a 2024 refresh updated styling and safety, and 2025-2026 added SEL Sport trims.
Buyer takeaway: Hybrid Blue is the fuel-economy pick, SEL is the value pick, and 2024-2026 cars have the refreshed look and standard rear side airbags. Check 2021-2023 seat-belt recalls by VIN.
Hyundai Elantra by model year
2026 Hyundai Elantra
The 2026 Elantra is largely carried over: a new SEL Sport Premium adds a sunroof, heated seats and adaptive cruise, and rear USB-C ports are standard. Engines are unchanged: 147-hp 2.0L with a CVT (about 40 highway mpg), 139-hp Hybrid (Blue about 54 mpg combined), 201-hp N Line and 276-hp Elantra N. A redesign is expected; verify 2026 details with Hyundai.
- Engines: 2.0 liter I4 147 hp 132 lb ft; 1.6 liter I4 hybrid 139 hp combined; 1.6 liter turbo I4 201 hp 195 lb ft n line; 2.0 liter turbo I4 276 hp 289 lb ft n model
- Transmissions: CVT continuously variable; 6 speed dual clutch hybrid; 7 speed dual clutch n line; 6 speed manual or 8 speed dual clutch n model
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive
- Body style: 4 door sedan
What changed:
- New SEL sport premium trim
- SEL convenience dropped
- Rear USB c ports standard on gas trims
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Anti theft software or steering lock status; Seat belt pretensioner recall completion; CVT operation and fluid service records; Hybrid system warnings if hybrid; Dual clutch engagement if n line hybrid or n; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Air conditioning operation; Electronics and infotainment; Maintenance history; Side impact airbag sensor recall completion.
2025 Hyundai Elantra
The 2025 Elantra adds SEL Sport and SEL Sport Hybrid trims with sportier styling, while engines carry over: a 147-hp 2.0L with a CVT (about 30-32 city / 39-41 highway mpg), a 139-hp Hybrid (Blue and SEL Sport about 51 city / 58 highway), the 201-hp N Line and the 276-hp Elantra N. It is a mature, well-equipped compact. Check the VIN for airbag-sensor recalls on certain cars.
- Engines: 2.0 liter I4 147 hp 132 lb ft; 1.6 liter I4 hybrid 139 hp combined; 1.6 liter turbo I4 201 hp 195 lb ft n line; 2.0 liter turbo I4 276 hp 289 lb ft n model
- Transmissions: CVT continuously variable; 6 speed dual clutch hybrid; 7 speed dual clutch n line; 6 speed manual or 8 speed dual clutch n model
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive
- Body style: 4 door sedan
What changed:
- New SEL sport and SEL sport hybrid trims
- SEL renamed SEL convenience
- Powertrains carry over
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Anti theft software or steering lock status; Seat belt pretensioner recall completion; CVT operation and fluid service records; Hybrid system warnings if hybrid; Dual clutch engagement if n line hybrid or n; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Air conditioning operation; Electronics and infotainment; Maintenance history; Side impact airbag sensor recall completion.
2024 Hyundai Elantra
The 2024 Elantra was refreshed with cleaner front and rear styling, standard rear side airbags, and a 10.25-inch touchscreen on SEL and above; the Limited adds a surround-view camera. Powertrains carry over: 147-hp 2.0L with a CVT, 139-hp Hybrid (Blue rated about 54 mpg combined), 201-hp N Line and 276-hp Elantra N. Check the VIN for an EGR-valve recall on certain 2024 cars.
- Engines: 2.0 liter I4 147 hp 132 lb ft; 1.6 liter I4 hybrid 139 hp combined; 1.6 liter turbo I4 201 hp 195 lb ft n line; 2.0 liter turbo I4 276 hp 289 lb ft n model
- Transmissions: CVT continuously variable; 6 speed dual clutch hybrid; 7 speed dual clutch n line; 6 speed manual or 8 speed dual clutch n model
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive
- Body style: 4 door sedan
What changed:
- Mid cycle refresh with new front and rear styling
- Rear side airbags standard
- 10 25 inch touchscreen standard on SEL and up
- Surround view camera on limited
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Anti theft software or steering lock status; Seat belt pretensioner recall completion; CVT operation and fluid service records; Hybrid system warnings if hybrid; Dual clutch engagement if n line hybrid or n; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Air conditioning operation; Electronics and infotainment; Maintenance history; EGR valve recall completion; Track use and modification check if n.
2023 Hyundai Elantra
The 2023 Elantra is a carryover year: the 147-hp 2.0L with a CVT (about 30-33 city / 40-42 highway mpg), the Hybrid (about 50-54 mpg combined), the 201-hp N Line (now dual-clutch only) and the 276-hp Elantra N with a manual or dual-clutch. Certain 2022-2023 cars are recalled for a driver airbag emblem that may detach, so check the VIN.
- Engines: 2.0 liter I4 147 hp 132 lb ft; 1.6 liter I4 hybrid 139 hp combined; 1.6 liter turbo I4 201 hp 195 lb ft n line; 2.0 liter turbo I4 276 hp 289 lb ft n model
- Transmissions: CVT continuously variable; 6 speed dual clutch hybrid; 7 speed dual clutch n line; 6 speed manual or 8 speed dual clutch n model
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive
- Body style: 4 door sedan
What changed:
- N line drops its manual
- N line gains standard 10 25 inch screens
- SEL premium package dropped
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Anti theft software or steering lock status; Seat belt pretensioner recall completion; CVT operation and fluid service records; Hybrid system warnings if hybrid; Dual clutch engagement if n line hybrid or n; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Air conditioning operation; Electronics and infotainment; Maintenance history; Driver airbag emblem recall completion; Track use and modification check if n.
2022 Hyundai Elantra
For 2022 Hyundai added the Elantra N, a 276-hp 2.0L turbo performance sedan with a 6-speed manual or 8-speed dual-clutch. The rest of the line carries over: the 147-hp 2.0L with a CVT (up to about 33/43 mpg), the Hybrid in Blue (about 54 mpg combined) and Limited trims, and the 201-hp N Line. Check the VIN for seat-belt and rearview-camera recalls.
- Engines: 2.0 liter I4 147 hp 132 lb ft; 1.6 liter I4 hybrid 139 hp combined; 1.6 liter turbo I4 201 hp 195 lb ft n line; 2.0 liter turbo I4 276 hp 289 lb ft n model
- Transmissions: CVT continuously variable; 6 speed dual clutch hybrid; 6 speed manual or 7 speed dual clutch n line; 6 speed manual or 8 speed dual clutch n model
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive
- Body style: 4 door sedan
What changed:
- New 276 hp elantra n performance model
- SEL hybrid dropped
- Hybrid offered as blue and limited
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Anti theft software or steering lock status; Seat belt pretensioner recall completion; CVT operation and fluid service records; Hybrid system warnings if hybrid; Dual clutch engagement if n line hybrid or n; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Air conditioning operation; Electronics and infotainment; Maintenance history; Rearview camera recall completion; Track use and modification check if n.
2021 Hyundai Elantra
The 2021 Elantra was all new: longer, lower and wider with bold styling. The 147-hp 2.0L uses a CVT and is rated up to about 33 city / 43 highway mpg; the first Elantra Hybrid (139 hp combined) reaches about 50-54 mpg combined; and the 201-hp N Line turbo offers a 6-speed manual or dual-clutch. Several seat-belt pretensioner and seat recalls apply, so check the VIN.
- Engines: 2.0 liter I4 147 hp 132 lb ft; 1.6 liter I4 hybrid 139 hp combined; 1.6 liter turbo I4 201 hp 195 lb ft n line
- Transmissions: CVT continuously variable; 6 speed dual clutch hybrid; 6 speed manual or 7 speed dual clutch n line
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive
- Body style: 4 door sedan
What changed:
- All new seventh generation sedan
- First elantra hybrid
- New 201 hp n line replaces sport
- Eco trim dropped
- Available 10 25 inch screens
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Anti theft software or steering lock status; Seat belt pretensioner recall completion; CVT operation and fluid service records; Hybrid system warnings if hybrid; Dual clutch engagement if n line hybrid or n; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Air conditioning operation; Electronics and infotainment; Maintenance history; Seat recliner recall completion; Rearview camera recall completion.
2020 Hyundai Elantra
For 2020 the 2.0L Elantra switched to a CVT (Hyundai's IVT), raising ratings to about 30-31 city / 40-41 highway mpg, and every trim gained forward collision-avoidance and lane-keeping assist. The Eco and 201-hp Sport use a dual-clutch automatic. Check the VIN for the 2.0L piston-ring recall and the lug-nut and ball-joint recalls on certain cars.
- Engines: 2.0 liter I4 147 hp 132 lb ft; 1.4 liter turbo I4 128 hp 156 lb ft eco; 1.6 liter turbo I4 201 hp 195 lb ft sport
- Transmissions: CVT continuously variable 2.0 liter; 6 speed manual 2.0 liter se; 7 speed dual clutch eco and sport
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive
- Body style: 4 door sedan
What changed:
- CVT replaces 6 speed automatic on the 2.0 liter
- Forward collision avoidance and lane keeping standard on all trims
- Final year of the sixth generation
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Anti theft software or steering lock status; Piston ring recall and engine noise software status; CVT operation and fluid service records; Dual clutch low speed engagement if eco or sport; Oil level and oil change records; Cold start engine noise; Check engine light and stored codes; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Air conditioning operation; Electronics and infotainment; Maintenance history.
2019 Hyundai Elantra
The 2019 Elantra was restyled front and rear, and SEL and higher trims gained automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist and blind-spot monitoring as standard. Engines carry over (147-hp 2.0L, 128-hp Eco turbo, 201-hp Sport turbo). Some 2019-2020 cars with the 2.0L are recalled for piston oil rings that may not be properly heat-treated; check the VIN.
- Engines: 2.0 liter I4 147 hp 132 lb ft; 1.4 liter turbo I4 128 hp 156 lb ft eco; 1.6 liter turbo I4 201 hp 195 lb ft sport
- Transmissions: 6 speed manual or 6 speed automatic 2.0 liter; 7 speed dual clutch eco; 6 speed manual or 7 speed dual clutch sport
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive
- Body style: 4 door sedan
What changed:
- Mid cycle refresh with new front and rear styling
- Automatic emergency braking and lane keeping standard on SEL and up
- Piston ring recall on certain 2.0 liter engines
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Anti theft software or steering lock status; Automatic transmission shift quality; Dual clutch low speed engagement if eco or sport; Oil level and oil change records; Cold start engine noise; Check engine light and stored codes; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Air conditioning operation; Electronics and infotainment; Maintenance history; Piston ring recall and engine noise software status.
2018 Hyundai Elantra
The 2018 Elantra adds an SEL trim and makes blind-spot monitoring standard on SEL and Sport. Engines carry over: the 147-hp 2.0L (about 28-29 city / 37-38 highway mpg), the 128-hp 1.4L turbo Eco (about 32/40) and the 201-hp 1.6L turbo Sport. It is a well-equipped compact for the money. Confirm the anti-theft upgrade by VIN.
- Engines: 2.0 liter I4 147 hp 132 lb ft; 1.4 liter turbo I4 128 hp 156 lb ft eco; 1.6 liter turbo I4 201 hp 195 lb ft sport
- Transmissions: 6 speed manual or 6 speed automatic 2.0 liter; 7 speed dual clutch eco; 6 speed manual or 7 speed dual clutch sport
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive
- Body style: 4 door sedan
What changed:
- New SEL trim
- Blind spot monitoring standard on SEL and sport
- Sunroof standard on sport
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Anti theft software or steering lock status; Automatic transmission shift quality; Dual clutch low speed engagement if eco or sport; Oil level and oil change records; Cold start engine noise; Check engine light and stored codes; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Air conditioning operation; Electronics and infotainment; Maintenance history.
2017 Hyundai Elantra
The 2017 Elantra was all new. Most trims use a 147-hp 2.0L four with a 6-speed manual or automatic (about 28-29 city / 37-38 highway mpg); the Eco has a 128-hp 1.4L turbo and dual-clutch automatic (about 32/40); and the Sport has a 201-hp 1.6L turbo with a manual or dual-clutch. First-year cars have several recalls (brake booster, power steering connector, airbags), so check the VIN.
- Engines: 2.0 liter I4 147 hp 132 lb ft; 1.4 liter turbo I4 128 hp 156 lb ft eco; 1.6 liter turbo I4 201 hp 195 lb ft sport
- Transmissions: 6 speed manual or 6 speed automatic 2.0 liter; 7 speed dual clutch eco; 6 speed manual or 7 speed dual clutch sport
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive
- Body style: 4 door sedan
What changed:
- All new sixth generation sedan
- New 147 hp 2.0 liter base engine
- New eco trim with 1.4 liter turbo
- New 201 hp sport with independent rear suspension
- Apple carplay android auto available
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Anti theft software or steering lock status; Automatic transmission shift quality; Dual clutch low speed engagement if eco or sport; Oil level and oil change records; Cold start engine noise; Check engine light and stored codes; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Air conditioning operation; Electronics and infotainment; Maintenance history; Brake booster and power steering recall completion.
2016 Hyundai Elantra
The 2016 Elantra is the last fifth-generation car; a new Value Edition added a sunroof and heated seats. SE, Value Edition and Limited use the 1.8L four (about 28 city / 37 highway mpg) and the Sport the 173-hp 2.0L. Certain 2015-2016 cars have a 2026 recall for a driver airbag inflator that may rupture, so check the VIN before buying.
- Engines: 1.8 liter I4 about 145 hp 130 lb ft; 2.0 liter direct injection I4 173 hp 154 lb ft sport
- Transmissions: 6 speed manual; 6 speed automatic
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive
- Body style: 4 door sedan
What changed:
- New value edition with sunroof and heated seats
- Final year of the fifth generation
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Anti theft software or steering lock status; Driver airbag inflator recall status; Trunk latch recall completion; Automatic transmission shift quality; Oil level and oil change records; Cold start engine noise; Check engine light and stored codes; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Air conditioning operation; Electronics and infotainment; Maintenance history.
2015 Hyundai Elantra
The 2015 Elantra carries over: SE and Limited sedans use the 1.8L four (about 27 city / 36-37 highway mpg) and the Sport uses the 173-hp 2.0L (about 24/34-35), with a 6-speed manual or automatic. Important: certain 2015-2016 Elantras are under a 2026 recall for a driver airbag inflator that may rupture; confirm remedy status by VIN.
- Engines: 1.8 liter I4 about 145 hp 130 lb ft; 2.0 liter direct injection I4 173 hp 154 lb ft sport
- Transmissions: 6 speed manual; 6 speed automatic
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive
- Body style: 4 door sedan; 2 door coupe
What changed:
- Minor equipment reshuffling
- Sport sedan keeps the 2.0 liter
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Anti theft software or steering lock status; Abs module fuse recall completion; Automatic transmission shift quality; Steering column clicking or noise; Oil level and oil change records; Cold start engine noise; Check engine light and stored codes; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Air conditioning operation; Electronics and infotainment; Maintenance history; Driver airbag inflator recall status; Trunk latch recall completion.
2014 Hyundai Elantra
The 2014 Elantra was refreshed with new styling, a quieter cabin and selectable steering modes. A new Sport sedan (and the Coupe) got a 173-hp 2.0L direct-injected four, rated about 24 city / 34 highway mpg, while SE and Limited kept the 1.8L (about 27/37). A 6-speed manual or automatic was offered. Check the VIN for brake-pedal pad and ABS-fuse recalls.
- Engines: 1.8 liter I4 about 145 hp 130 lb ft; 2.0 liter direct injection I4 173 hp 154 lb ft sport
- Transmissions: 6 speed manual; 6 speed automatic
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive
- Body style: 4 door sedan; 2 door coupe
What changed:
- Mid cycle refresh with updated styling
- New elantra sport sedan with 2.0 liter engine
- Coupe moves to the 2.0 liter
- Driver selectable steering modes
- Improved sound insulation
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Anti theft software or steering lock status; Abs module fuse recall completion; Automatic transmission shift quality; Steering column clicking or noise; Oil level and oil change records; Cold start engine noise; Check engine light and stored codes; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Air conditioning operation; Electronics and infotainment; Maintenance history; Brake pedal stopper pad recall completion.
2013 Hyundai Elantra
For 2013 Hyundai added a 2-door Elantra Coupe and a separate Elantra GT hatchback, while the sedan carried over with the 148-hp 1.8L four and a 6-speed manual or automatic, rated about 28 city / 38 highway mpg. Check the VIN for the brake-pedal stopper pad recall, which can keep brake lights on, plus the ABS-fuse recall.
- Engines: 1.8 liter I4 148 hp 131 lb ft
- Transmissions: 6 speed manual; 6 speed automatic
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive
- Body style: 4 door sedan; 2 door coupe
What changed:
- New 2 door elantra coupe
- New elantra GT hatchback sold separately
- Sedan largely carryover
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Anti theft software or steering lock status; Abs module fuse recall completion; Automatic transmission shift quality; Steering column clicking or noise; Oil level and oil change records; Cold start engine noise; Check engine light and stored codes; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Air conditioning operation; Electronics and infotainment; Maintenance history; Brake pedal stopper pad recall completion; Brake lights turn off when pedal released.
2012 Hyundai Elantra
The 2012 Elantra carries over the 2011 redesign: a 148-hp 1.8L four, 6-speed manual or automatic, and an EPA rating of about 28 city / 38 highway mpg after Hyundai's restatement. GLS and Limited trims are offered. It remains a practical, efficient compact. Confirm the ABS-fuse, ESC-sensor and accessory-socket recalls by VIN.
- Engines: 1.8 liter I4 148 hp 131 lb ft
- Transmissions: 6 speed manual; 6 speed automatic
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive
- Body style: 4 door sedan
What changed:
- Carryover gls and limited sedans
- Last year of the older elantra touring wagon
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Anti theft software or steering lock status; Abs module fuse recall completion; Automatic transmission shift quality; Steering column clicking or noise; Oil level and oil change records; Cold start engine noise; Check engine light and stored codes; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Air conditioning operation; Electronics and infotainment; Maintenance history; Esc sensor recall completion; Accessory power socket recall completion.
2011 Hyundai Elantra
The 2011 Elantra was all new, with dramatic styling and a 148-hp 1.8L four paired with a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic. It was launched as a 40-mpg-highway car, but Hyundai restated its ratings in 2012; the current EPA figure is about 28 city / 38 highway. It is roomy and efficient. Check the VIN for the ABS-fuse, ESC-sensor and side-curtain headliner recalls and the free anti-theft upgrade.
- Engines: 1.8 liter I4 148 hp 131 lb ft
- Transmissions: 6 speed manual; 6 speed automatic
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive
- Body style: 4 door sedan
What changed:
- All new fifth generation sedan
- New 148 hp 1.8 liter engine
- Six speed manual and automatic
- EPA ratings restated lower in november 2012
- Older elantra touring wagon sold alongside
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Anti theft software or steering lock status; Abs module fuse recall completion; Automatic transmission shift quality; Steering column clicking or noise; Oil level and oil change records; Cold start engine noise; Check engine light and stored codes; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Air conditioning operation; Electronics and infotainment; Maintenance history; Esc sensor recall completion; Headliner bracket recall completion.
Known issues and what to check
- ABS Module Fuse Recall (Park-Outside Advisory) (2011–2015)
NHTSA recall 23V651 covers certain 2011-2015 Elantra sedans and 2013-2015 Elantra Coupes. The ABS module can leak brake fluid internally and short, which can cause an engine-compartment fire while parked or driving. Owners were told to park outside until a dealer installs a replacement ABS fuse, free of charge.
What to do: Confirm by VIN that the ABS-fuse recall is complete before buying a 2011-2015 Elantra. - Driver Airbag Inflator Rupture Recall (2015-2016) (2015–2016)
NHTSA recall 26V307 (2026) covers certain 2015-2016 Elantras: the driver's airbag inflator may rupture when it deploys. Interim owner letters went out in July 2026, with the final remedy (inspection and inflator replacement) expected to follow. Remedy availability may be limited, so status must be checked by VIN.
What to do: On a 2015-2016 Elantra, check this recall by VIN and ask a Hyundai dealer about remedy timing before buying. - 2.0L Engine Piston Oil Ring Recall (2019-2020) (2019–2020)
NHTSA recall 21V301 covers certain 2019-2020 Elantras with the 2.0L engine: the piston oil rings may not have been properly heat-treated, which can cause engine damage. Dealers inspect and replace the engine if needed and install Piston Ring Noise Sensing System software that warns the driver of developing problems.
What to do: On a 2019-2020 Elantra 2.0L, confirm the recall inspection and software were completed and check oil level. - Anti-Theft Software Upgrade (2011-2022 Key-Start Cars) (2011–2022)
Key-start Elantras without an engine immobilizer were targeted by thieves. Hyundai offers a free anti-theft software upgrade for eligible 2011-2022 Elantras (it extends the alarm and blocks starting without the key fob) and a free steering-wheel lock where the software cannot be installed. Push-button-start cars are generally not affected; eligibility is VIN-specific.
What to do: Check the VIN on Hyundai's anti-theft site and get the free upgrade if needed. - Seat-Belt Pretensioner, Seat and Camera Recalls (2021-2023) (2021–2023)
Early seventh-generation Elantras have several recalls: front seat-belt pretensioners that may rupture on deployment (21V796, 22V123, 22V218, 22V354), improperly welded seat-back recliners on certain 2021 cars (21V302), a rearview camera that may fail to display on certain 2021-2022 cars (24V879), and a driver airbag emblem that may detach on certain 2022-2023 cars (22V632).
What to do: Confirm all recalls by VIN on a 2021-2023 Elantra. - Fifth-Generation Recalls: ESC Sensor, Headliner Bracket, Brake-Pedal Pad (2011–2014)
Certain 2011-2012 Elantras need an ESC sensor check and recalibration because brakes could apply unexpectedly (15V871); certain 2011-2013 cars need adhesive strips so a headliner bracket stays put when the curtain airbags deploy (13V115); and certain 2013-2014 sedans, coupes and GTs need a new brake-pedal stopper pad that can keep the brake lights on and let the shifter leave Park without the brake (16V574/17V769).
What to do: Run the VIN and check the brake lights and shift interlock. - 2011-2013 Fuel Economy Ratings Restated (2011–2013)
In November 2012 Hyundai and Kia restated (lowered) fuel economy ratings for many 2011-2013 vehicles, including the Elantra, which had been marketed at 40 mpg highway; the EPA now lists about 28 city / 38 highway. The companies later settled with the EPA and CARB in 2014. Use current fueleconomy.gov figures, not the original window sticker.
What to do: Expect about 28 city / 38 highway mpg from a 2011-2013 Elantra.
Recalls
Recall applicability varies by model year, production date, engine, transmission, equipment, and VIN. Check the VIN for current open recalls and completed remedies. For 2011-2022 key-start cars, also check anti-theft software eligibility.
Similar vehicles to consider
- Toyota Corolla
- Honda Civic
- Kia Forte
- Kia K4
- Nissan Sentra
- Mazda Mazda3
- Volkswagen Jetta
- Chevrolet Cruze
- Ford Focus
- Toyota Corolla Hybrid
Questions this guide answers
- What generation is this Hyundai Elantra?
- What engine and transmission does this Elantra have?
- What is the difference between the Elantra, N Line and Elantra N?
- What mpg does the Elantra Hybrid get?
- Does this Elantra need the anti-theft software upgrade?
- Is the 2015-2016 airbag recall fixed on this car?
- Has the 2.0L piston-ring recall been done on this 2019-2020 Elantra?
- What changed in the 2017, 2021 and 2024 Elantra?
- What should I inspect on a used Elantra?
- What similar vehicles should I consider?