Hyundai Veloster research: recalls, reliability and buyer's guide

The Veloster stands out with one door on the driver's side and two on the passenger side, giving coupe looks with easier back-seat access. Early cars (2012-2017) are economical 1.6L commuters, with a 201-hp Turbo from 2013. The 2019 redesign brought a 2.0L base engine, standard smartphone integration and forward collision avoidance, and the Veloster N, a 250-275-hp hot hatch widely praised for its handling. Check recalls by VIN, since several engine and fire-risk recalls apply to specific years.

Model years covered: 2012–2022. The Veloster was sold in the U.S. for 2012-2017 and 2019-2022; there was no 2018 model year, 2022 was Veloster N only, and there are no 2023 or later U.S. Velosters.

Last updated 2026-10-15.

Strengths

Distinctive three door design
Good fuel economy on base models
Fun handling turbo and n models
Veloster n is a highly rated hot hatch
Standard smartphone integration 2019 and later
Affordable used prices

Things to know before you buy

No 2018 model year
Several VIN specific engine recalls
Abs module fire recall on 2012 2015
Key start models need anti theft update
Dual clutch automatics can feel jerky at low speed
Firm ride and road noise
Limited rear headroom
N models may have track use or modifications
Recall status should be checked by VIN

Generations

Generation 1 (2012–2017)

The first-generation Veloster (2012-2017) introduced the three-door hatchback layout with a 138-hp 1.6L direct-injected four and a 6-speed manual or 6-speed dual-clutch automatic. The 201-hp, 195 lb-ft Veloster Turbo arrived for 2013 (manual or conventional 6-speed automatic), the manual-only Turbo R-Spec for 2014, and for 2016 the Turbo automatic became a 7-speed dual-clutch with a limited Rally Edition.

Buyer takeaway: For the lowest price and best mpg, a base manual car is simplest; for fun, a 2016-2017 Turbo or a Turbo R-Spec. Confirm the ABS-module fire recall (2012-2015), the parking-sensor recall (2012-2014), the 2015-2016 bearing recall and the anti-theft update by VIN.

Generation 2 (2019–2022)

The second-generation Veloster (2019-2022) kept the three-door body with a 147-hp 2.0L (manual or 6-speed automatic) and a 201-hp 1.6L turbo (manual or 7-speed dual-clutch), plus standard Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and forward collision avoidance. The Veloster N added a 250-hp 2.0L turbo (275 hp with the Performance Package, standard from 2021) and, for 2021, an 8-speed wet dual-clutch option. Regular models ended after 2021 and the N after 2022.

Buyer takeaway: A 2019-2021 Turbo is a sporty daily driver with modern tech; the Veloster N is the enthusiast pick, ideally a 2021-2022 with 275 hp standard. Check the 2.0L piston ring recall, the N fuel pump and DCT oil pump recalls, and signs of track use.

Hyundai Veloster by model year

2022 Hyundai Veloster

For 2022 only the Veloster N was sold in the U.S.; Hyundai dropped the regular Veloster after 2021, and 2022 was the final year for the N. It has a 275-hp, 260 lb-ft 2.0L turbo, an electronic limited-slip differential, adaptive dampers, and a 6-speed manual or 8-speed wet dual-clutch, rated about 22/28 mpg with the manual. Check fuel-pump and DCT recalls and look for track abuse.

Engines: 2.0 liter turbo I4 275 hp 260 lb ft n performance package
Transmissions: 6 speed manual; 8 speed wet dual clutch automatic
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive
Body style: 3 door asymmetric hatchback

What changed:

Veloster n only regular models discontinued
Final US model year of the veloster

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Dct oil pump recall completion veloster n; Evidence of track use or aftermarket tuning; Brake pad and rotor wear; Tire wear and alignment; Clutch and rev matching operation if manual; Electronic limited slip and drive modes; Fuel pump recall completion; Maintenance history.

2021 Hyundai Veloster

2021 was the last year for the regular Veloster (147-hp 2.0L or 201-hp 1.6L turbo). The Veloster N made the Performance Package standard, so every N has 275 hp and 260 lb-ft, and added an optional 8-speed wet dual-clutch automatic alongside the 6-speed manual. 2021-2022 N dual-clutch cars have a transmission oil pump recall; confirm the remedy by VIN.

Engines: 2.0 liter I4 147 hp 132 lb ft; 1.6 liter turbo gdi I4 201 hp 195 lb ft; 2.0 liter turbo I4 275 hp 260 lb ft n performance package
Transmissions: 6 speed manual; 6 speed automatic 2.0 liter; 7 speed dual clutch automatic turbo; 6 speed manual or 8 speed wet dual clutch veloster n
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive
Body style: 3 door asymmetric hatchback

What changed:

Veloster n adds 8 speed wet dual clutch option
N performance package and 275 hp now standard
Last year for the non n veloster

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Anti theft software update status if key start; Dct oil pump recall completion veloster n; Piston oil ring recall completion 2.0 liter; Forward collision and lane keeping sensors; Infotainment and smartphone connection; Clutch wear if manual; Suspension and alignment; Tires and brakes; Maintenance history.

2020 Hyundai Veloster

The 2020 Veloster carries over: a 147-hp 2.0L (manual or 6-speed automatic), a 201-hp 1.6L turbo (manual or 7-speed dual-clutch), and the Veloster N with 250 hp or 275 hp with the Performance Package, still manual only. Some 2.0L engines are in a piston oil ring recall; check the VIN, and on an N look closely for track use and modifications.

Engines: 2.0 liter I4 147 hp 132 lb ft; 1.6 liter turbo gdi I4 201 hp 195 lb ft; 2.0 liter turbo I4 250 hp 260 lb ft n; 2.0 liter turbo I4 275 hp 260 lb ft n performance package
Transmissions: 6 speed manual; 6 speed automatic 2.0 liter; 7 speed dual clutch automatic turbo; 6 speed manual veloster n
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive
Body style: 3 door asymmetric hatchback

What changed:

Largely carryover
Veloster n still manual only

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Anti theft software update status if key start; Piston oil ring recall completion 2.0 liter; Forward collision and lane keeping sensors; Infotainment and smartphone connection; Clutch wear if manual; Suspension and alignment; Tires and brakes; Maintenance history; Evidence of track use or aftermarket tuning.

2019 Hyundai Veloster

The redesigned 2019 Veloster keeps the three-door shape with a sharper look. Base cars use a 147-hp 2.0L with a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic (about 27/34 mpg auto); the Turbo, R-Spec and Turbo Ultimate use a 201-hp 1.6L turbo with a manual or 7-speed dual-clutch. The new Veloster N has a 2.0L turbo with 250 hp, or 275 hp with the Performance Package, and a 6-speed manual only.

Engines: 2.0 liter I4 147 hp 132 lb ft; 1.6 liter turbo gdi I4 201 hp 195 lb ft; 2.0 liter turbo I4 250 hp 260 lb ft n; 2.0 liter turbo I4 275 hp 260 lb ft n performance package
Transmissions: 6 speed manual; 6 speed automatic 2.0 liter; 7 speed dual clutch automatic turbo; 6 speed manual veloster n
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive
Body style: 3 door asymmetric hatchback

What changed:

All new second generation keeps three door layout
New 147 hp 2.0 liter base engine
First veloster n performance model 250 or 275 hp
Standard apple carplay android auto and forward collision avoidance

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Anti theft software update status if key start; Piston oil ring recall completion 2.0 liter; Door latch recall completion 2019; Forward collision and lane keeping sensors; Infotainment and smartphone connection; Clutch wear if manual; Suspension and alignment; Tires and brakes; Maintenance history.

2017 Hyundai Veloster

The 2017 Veloster is the last of the first generation; Hyundai skipped the 2018 model year before the redesigned 2019. It offers the 1.6L base engine with a manual or 6-speed dual-clutch (about 27/34-35 mpg) and the 201-hp Turbo with a manual or 7-speed dual-clutch. A well-kept 2016-2017 Turbo is the pick of the early cars; confirm the anti-theft software update.

Engines: 1.6 liter gdi I4 about 132 138 hp; 1.6 liter turbo gdi I4 201 hp 195 lb ft
Transmissions: 6 speed manual; 6 speed dual clutch automatic base; 7 speed dual clutch automatic turbo
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive
Body style: 3 door asymmetric hatchback

What changed:

Final year of the first generation
No 2018 model year was sold in the US

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Anti theft software update status if key start; Dual clutch engagement and low speed judder; Turbo boost leaks and oil seepage; Evidence of aftermarket tuning; Dual clutch engagement and low speed judder if equipped; Clutch wear if manual; Oil level and consumption; Suspension noise and alignment; Hatch and rear door seals for leaks; Tires and brakes; Maintenance history.

2016 Hyundai Veloster

For 2016 the Veloster Turbo replaced its conventional automatic with a 7-speed dual-clutch, and a limited Rally Edition (manual Turbo with sport suspension and matte blue paint) was offered. The touchscreen gained next-generation Blue Link and Siri Eyes Free. The base 1.6L (about 27/34-35 mpg) continues; like 2015, it is part of a connecting rod bearing recall, so verify by VIN.

Engines: 1.6 liter gdi I4 about 132 138 hp; 1.6 liter turbo gdi I4 201 hp 195 lb ft
Transmissions: 6 speed manual; 6 speed dual clutch automatic base; 7 speed dual clutch automatic turbo
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive
Body style: 3 door asymmetric hatchback

What changed:

Turbo gets 7 speed dual clutch automatic
Limited run rally edition turbo
Updated touchscreen with next generation blue link
New wheel designs

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Anti theft software update status if key start; Connecting rod bearing recall completion base engine; Dual clutch engagement and low speed judder turbo; Turbo boost leaks and oil seepage; Evidence of aftermarket tuning; Dual clutch engagement and low speed judder if equipped; Clutch wear if manual; Oil level and consumption; Suspension noise and alignment; Hatch and rear door seals for leaks; Tires and brakes; Maintenance history.

2015 Hyundai Veloster

The 2015 Veloster carries over the base 1.6L (manual or 6-speed dual-clutch, about 26/34-35 mpg) and the 201-hp Turbo (manual or 6-speed automatic). 2015-2016 base 1.6L engines were later recalled because connecting rod bearings can wear prematurely, so check the VIN for that remedy and the ABS-module fire-risk recall, and listen for any engine knocking.

Engines: 1.6 liter gdi I4 about 132 138 hp; 1.6 liter turbo gdi I4 201 hp 195 lb ft
Transmissions: 6 speed manual; 6 speed dual clutch automatic base; 6 speed automatic turbo
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive
Body style: 3 door asymmetric hatchback

What changed:

Largely carryover
Base 1.6 liter included in 2020 connecting rod bearing recall

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Anti theft software update status if key start; Connecting rod bearing recall completion base engine; Engine knock or oil pressure warning; Turbo boost leaks and oil seepage; Evidence of aftermarket tuning; Abs module fire recall completion 2012 2015; Dual clutch engagement and low speed judder if equipped; Clutch wear if manual; Oil level and consumption; Suspension noise and alignment; Hatch and rear door seals for leaks; Tires and brakes; Maintenance history.

2014 Hyundai Veloster

The 2014 Veloster adds the Turbo R-Spec, a lower-priced, manual-only Turbo with firmer suspension and quicker steering for enthusiasts. Engines carry over: the 1.6L base engine (about 26/34 mpg with the manual) with a manual or dual-clutch automatic, and the 201-hp 1.6L turbo with a manual or 6-speed automatic. Check ABS-module and parking-sensor recall status by VIN.

Engines: 1.6 liter gdi I4 about 132 138 hp; 1.6 liter turbo gdi I4 201 hp 195 lb ft
Transmissions: 6 speed manual; 6 speed dual clutch automatic base; 6 speed automatic turbo
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive
Body style: 3 door asymmetric hatchback

What changed:

Turbo r spec added manual only
R spec has firmer suspension and quicker steering

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Anti theft software update status if key start; Parking sensor recall completion 2012 2014; Turbo boost leaks and oil seepage; Evidence of aftermarket tuning; Abs module fire recall completion 2012 2015; Dual clutch engagement and low speed judder if equipped; Clutch wear if manual; Oil level and consumption; Suspension noise and alignment; Hatch and rear door seals for leaks; Tires and brakes; Maintenance history.

2013 Hyundai Veloster

For 2013 Hyundai added the Veloster Turbo: a 201-hp, 195 lb-ft turbocharged 1.6L with a 6-speed manual or a conventional 6-speed automatic, plus a bolder grille and body kit. The base car keeps its 138-hp 1.6L with a manual or 6-speed dual-clutch, rated up to about 27/37 mpg. 2013 Turbos were recalled for an engine-software update to prevent premature ignition; confirm it was done.

Engines: 1.6 liter gdi I4 about 132 138 hp; 1.6 liter turbo gdi I4 201 hp 195 lb ft
Transmissions: 6 speed manual; 6 speed dual clutch automatic base; 6 speed automatic turbo
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive
Body style: 3 door asymmetric hatchback

What changed:

Veloster turbo added with 201 hp
Turbo gets unique grille and body styling
Turbo automatic is a conventional 6 speed

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Anti theft software update status if key start; Turbo engine software recall completion 2013; Parking sensor recall completion 2012 2014; Turbo boost leaks and oil seepage; Evidence of aftermarket tuning; Abs module fire recall completion 2012 2015; Dual clutch engagement and low speed judder if equipped; Clutch wear if manual; Oil level and consumption; Suspension noise and alignment; Hatch and rear door seals for leaks; Tires and brakes; Maintenance history.

2012 Hyundai Veloster

The 2012 Veloster introduced a quirky three-door hatchback: one door on the driver's side and two on the passenger side for easier rear-seat access. It uses a 1.6L direct-injected four rated 138 hp with a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed dual-clutch automatic, and earns about 27/37 mpg with the manual. It is fuel-efficient and stylish rather than fast; check the VIN for the ABS-module and parking-sensor fire-risk recalls.

Engines: 1.6 liter gdi I4 about 132 138 hp
Transmissions: 6 speed manual; 6 speed dual clutch automatic
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive
Body style: 3 door asymmetric hatchback

What changed:

All new three door hatchback with one driver side and two passenger side doors
6 speed dual clutch automatic offered
Standard 7 inch touchscreen

What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Anti theft software update status if key start; Parking sensor recall completion 2012 2014; Abs module fire recall completion 2012 2015; Dual clutch engagement and low speed judder if equipped; Clutch wear if manual; Oil level and consumption; Suspension noise and alignment; Hatch and rear door seals for leaks; Tires and brakes; Maintenance history.

Known issues and what to check

ABS Module and Parking Sensor Fire-Risk Recalls (2012-2015) (2012–2015)
Certain 2012-2015 Velosters are in Hyundai's 2023 ABS-module recall (NHTSA 23V-651): brake fluid can leak inside the module and cause an electrical short and engine-compartment fire, so Hyundai advised parking outside until fixed. Certain 2012-2014 models also have a reverse parking sensor fire-risk recall (23V-132).
What to do: Do not buy until both recalls show complete, or have a Hyundai dealer complete them first.
Engine Recalls: 1.6L Bearings, 2013 Turbo Software, 2.0L Piston Rings (2013–2021)
Several engine recalls apply to specific Velosters: 2013 Turbos received an engine-software update to prevent premature ignition that could damage the engine (19V-204); certain 2015-2016 base 1.6L engines may suffer premature connecting rod bearing wear (20V-746); and certain 2019-2021 2.0L engines may have piston oil rings that were not properly heat-treated (21V-301). Remedies can include inspection, software and engine replacement.
What to do: Confirm every applicable engine recall is complete and the oil level is correct before buying.
Anti-Theft Software Update (Key-Start Models) (2012–2021)
Key-start 2012-2017 and 2019-2021 Velosters are eligible for Hyundai's free anti-theft software update, released in 2023 after thefts targeting Hyundai and Kia models without an engine immobilizer.
What to do: Ask a Hyundai dealer to confirm the update; it is free.
Dual-Clutch Transmission Operation (2012–2022)
Base 2012-2017 automatics use a 6-speed dry dual-clutch, 2016-2021 Turbo automatics a 7-speed dual-clutch, and 2021-2022 Veloster N automatics an 8-speed wet dual-clutch (subject to an oil pump recall). Dual-clutch transmissions can feel jerky at low speed and should be checked for shudder, slipping or warning messages.
What to do: Drive the car in traffic and on a hill before buying an automatic Veloster.
Veloster N: Track Use, Modifications and Fuel Pump Recall (2019–2022)
The Veloster N is a performance car that is often driven hard, tracked or tuned. Inspect brakes, tires, clutch and suspension, and look for aftermarket tunes or intake/exhaust changes that can affect warranty. Certain 2019-2022 N models are also in a fuel pump recall (24V-528) because a failing pump can cause loss of drive power.
What to do: Get a pre-purchase inspection and ask directly about track use and modifications.
Generation, Engine and Model-Year Gap Disambiguation (2012–2022)
There was no 2018 U.S. Veloster. 2012-2017 cars are first generation (1.6L or 1.6L turbo); 2019-2022 cars are second generation (2.0L, 1.6L turbo or the 2.0L turbo Veloster N). 2022 was Veloster N only.
What to do: Confirm the exact year, engine and transmission before comparing prices.

Recalls

Recall applicability varies by model year, engine, transmission, production date and VIN. Check the VIN for open recalls, including engine and fire-risk recalls, and confirm the anti-theft software update on key-start models.

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Questions this guide answers

Why does the Veloster have three doors?
What engine does this Veloster have?
Was there a 2018 Veloster?
What is the difference between the Veloster Turbo and Veloster N?
Does this Veloster have a dual-clutch transmission?
What recalls should I check on a Veloster?
Does this Veloster need the anti-theft software update?
What fuel economy does the Veloster get?
What should I inspect on a used Veloster N?
What similar hatchbacks should I consider?