Certain vehicles may exhibit excessive paint peeling or bubbling of the primer/paint film on the exterior metal body panels: hood, fender(s), roof, door(s), quarter panel(s), and tailgate/trunk. This warranty extension only applies to factory-applied paint and does not cover collision-related paint repairs or vehicles with a salvaged title. Hyundai is …
2018 Hyundai Elantra
Owners filed 284 complaints about this vehicle with federal regulators, most often about the engine. No safety recall has been issued.
Not among the Hyundai Elantra years to avoid. Which Hyundai Elantra years to avoid →
91 complaints record an odometer reading. Failures cluster around 0–10,000 miles.
Most common 2018 Hyundai Elantra problems
121 of the 284 complaints (43%) are about the engine.
| Component | Reports | Crashes | Fires | Injuries | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 117 | 1 | 4 | 0 | |
| Unknown or Other | 34 | 3 | 0 | 2 | |
| Electrical System | 26 | 1 | 1 | 1 | |
| Structure › Body · body and frame | 14 | 0 | 1 | 0 | |
| Power Train · transmission | 11 | 0 | 0 | 0 | |
| Steering | 10 | 0 | 0 | 0 | |
| Service Brakes · brakes | 10 | 1 | 1 | 0 | |
| Fuel/Propulsion System · fuel and propulsion system | 10 | 0 | 0 | 0 | |
| Air Bags · airbags | 10 | 6 | 0 | 3 | |
| Wheels | 6 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
2018 Hyundai Elantra engine problems
43% of all complaints121 of the 284 complaints are about the engine. This is what owners describe:
- turns on the check engine light32% · 39
- sets off warning lights on the dash31% · 37
- stalls29% · 35
- knocks, grinds or clunks23% · 28
- burns oil or loses oil pressure15% · 18
- loses power14% · 17
Share of the 121 engine complaints whose text describes each symptom. One complaint can describe several.
“While driving the engine light came off and car shut down instantly. I see there is issues with the 2018 Hyundai Elantra but I’m coming ot if picket. $7678.50 I purchased the vehicle I. ZMay and purchased a standard warranty that covers $2500 per repair. I have a 30/3 Tucson and love that vehicle! This one! Not so much!!!! I owe $11,000 and need a $7600 engine.”
“After the car was started, I drove 3 houses over when there was a loud knocking sound and the car just shut off. When trying to restart it wouldn't and the check engine, battery, and oil lights came on. After pushing it out of the road we checked the oil and it was empty. The oil has just been changed less than 2 months ago. Now the engine is seized.”
Complaints and recalls over time
By year of filingComplaints about the 2018 Elantra peaked in 2022, with 50 filed that year. No recall on file covers the engine, the subject of 43% of the complaints. In 2026 owners filed 26 so far.
Technical service bulletins
123 on fileRepair instructions the manufacturer sent its dealers for the 2018 Elantra. Not recalls: the fix is usually free only while the car is under warranty.
Some Hyundai vehicles with exterior white paint may exhibit peeling or bubbling on metal body panels: hood, fender(s), roof, door(s), quarter panel(s), and tailgate/trunk. The paint warranty coverage for affected vehicles has been extended to 10 years/unlimited miles from the date of original retail delivery or date of first use and is valid for original …
Certain Hyundai vehicles with exterior white paint may exhibit peeling or bubbling on metal body panels: hood, fender(s), roof, door(s), quarter panel(s), and tailgate/trunk. The paint warranty coverage for affected vehicles has been extended to 10 years/unlimited miles from the date of original retail delivery or date of first use and is valid for original …
Certain 2017-2019MY Elantra (AD, ADA) vehicles equipped with 2.0L ATK engines may be unable to complete diagnosis of the OBD-II Fuel System Readiness Monitor. This bulletin provides instructions to perform a software update for the Engine Control Module (ECM) to revise control logic.
Some vehicles equipped with internal combustion engines may exhibit higher-than-expected engine oil consumption. This bulletin outlines the combustion chamber cleaning procedure for vehicles diagnosed with this condition. All internal combustion engines consume some engine oil during normal operation, depending on driving conditions and mileage, and this …
Certain vehicles equipped with internal combustion engines may exhibit higher-than-expected engine oil consumption. This bulletin provides the inspection and repair procedures for vehicles exhibiting this condition. All internal combustion engines consume engine oil as part of normal engine operation. Oil consumption rates may vary based on mileage, …
This bulletin provides important checkpoint guidelines when performing engine oil and filter change services.
Follow the guidelines outlined in this bulletin to inspect and clean or replace certain components of the engine intake system accordingly during engine short block or sub-assembly replacement.
This bulletin provides information related to an Electronic Control Module (ECM) software update to revise control logic for completion of OBD-II Fuel System Readiness Monitor diagnosis.
This update includes information related to Electronic Control Module (ECM) software to revise control logic for completion of OBD-II Fuel System Readiness Monitor diagnosis.
Showing the newest 6 of 16 bulletins about the engine, and any warranty extensions or service campaigns.
Crash test ratings
NHTSA 5-star safety ratings| Version tested | Overall | Frontal | Side | Rollover | Rollover risk |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2018 Hyundai Elantra 4 DR FWD | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | 10.7% |
New Car Assessment Program results for this model year. Ratings compare cars of similar size and weight only.
What owners reported
Newest filingsEngine mounts have been replaced already twice and they keep going bad last time was over a year ago and now it's bad again making noises vibrate and this replacement was done by the dealership with parts from Hyundai apparently under warranty and now warranty is almost done worries me that in a year without warranty i have to replace them again something is really off with either the engine or the parts they are replacing
While driving the engine light came off and car shut down instantly. I see there is issues with the 2018 Hyundai Elantra but I’m coming ot if picket. $7678.50 I purchased the vehicle I. ZMay and purchased a standard warranty that covers $2500 per repair. I have a 30/3 Tucson and love that vehicle! This one! Not so much!!!! I owe $11,000 and need a $7600 engine.
Steering keeps locking up steering wheel light light and other lights in my dashboard came on which caused my back camera to stop working took it to dealership got a diagnosis it appeared nothing was wrong which they calibrated it and fixed the problem for a month and it started back to the same problem again called the dealership to see why was this issue happening again I was told I would have to have it diagnosed again because it’s been 30 days which I think it’s crazy because they already know what’s going on from the last time I bought it in it’s like the dealership is stealing from us and just doing quick fixes.
After the car was started, I drove 3 houses over when there was a loud knocking sound and the car just shut off. When trying to restart it wouldn't and the check engine, battery, and oil lights came on. After pushing it out of the road we checked the oil and it was empty. The oil has just been changed less than 2 months ago. Now the engine is seized.
On July 13, 2026, my engine light came on and I don't understand why. My oil change was update and not sure what else can be wrong. So, I went to AutoZone so that can do a diagnostic and they gave me a printout of the problem. Took the vehicle to the shop gave him the printout from AutoZone so that he will know what the problem is. Brought the part and that didn't take the engine light off and I paid $300 for nothing because I am still experiencing the issue. I took it back to the shop and the guy said that I need to replace my engine. I have had the car for about three years and not understanding why the engine needs to be replaced already. Then the passenger seat belt light keeps going off when there's no one sitting in the seat. I think there's a problem with the engine and my seatbelt light, but there's a recall on the vehicle. I replaced the air filter like it was suggest to me the car dealer where I purchase the car from. So, I did that and the car is running a little loud at times.
While the car is in drive, it would power off in the middle of driving. Took the car to repair and advised regarding the engine. My safety was at risk because I loss power to operation the car in the middle of traffic, which could have called an accident for myself and others. The problem have been confirmed a repair shop. No, the manufacture stated since my vin # is not included in their recall, it will not be cover but clearly its something wrong with the car. When the engine light came on, I took it to the repair shop and was advised regarding the engine.
Since having our car, the check engine light came on several times with us being told we will need an engine replacement. Recently, our car stalled out several times while driving on different occasions leading us to look up the recalls.
On XXX, I dropped off my 2018 Hyundai Elantra (VIN: [XXX]) at Hyundai of Downtown Los Angeles for Service Campaign TXXW. The vehicle was in proper working order with no stalling or drivability concerns. The dealership retained it for 159 days before I retrieved it XXX It has now been in their custody 191 days — more than six times the 30-day limit under Song-Beverly § 1793.2(b). COMPONENT/SYSTEM: The engine NOW stalls completely at every stop. A documented clunk in the passenger front was identified in the dealership's own service report as "clunk noise heard from passenger front." Both conditions developed during the dealership's exclusive custody. Vehicle is at 3850 S Figueroa St, Los Angeles CA 90037 and available for inspection. SAFETY RISK: The engine shuts off quietly at red lights and stop signs without warning. Dashboard indicates engine is not running and vehicle cannot move without restarting. My minor son was a passenger when this occurred, creating a serious safety hazard at active intersections. REPRODUCED/CONFIRMED: Stalling was documented by text to Assistant Service Manager John Ragan at 12:34 PM on XXX Dealership's General Manager confirmed in writing July 22, 2026 that no stalling existed at original drop-off, confirming it developed during their custody. INSPECTIONS: Dealership performed a multipoint inspection and documented the clunk in writing. No independent inspection has occurred as vehicle remains on dealership property. Hyundai Motor America notifie
The factory paint on the hood, roof, and front fenders is delaminating, with the largest defect being on the hood. These are available for inspection upon request. As this is progressing, structural pieces may begin to rust, but this also presents a critical visibility issue. During one drive on 6/8/2026, the hood paint began flaking away significantly at highway speeds, which could have jeopardized my or following drivers visibility in conditions that were already rainy. Yes the paint has been inspected by Hyundai and a private body shop. We first noticed some delamination on the hood about 6 months ago, but prior to that there were no warning signs of this progressively worsening paint failure.
This vehicle lacks an engine immobilizer, a defect that has made 2011-2022 Hyundai and Kia vehicles unusually susceptible to theft via a method widely publicized on social media as the "Kia Challenge." My vehicle was stolen using this method, driven approximately 30-40 miles, and abandoned. It was found stripped of parts, including the catalytic converter. This defect is already the subject of a nationwide class-action settlement (hyundaitheftsettlement.com) and a multistate Attorney General settlement. I am filing this report to ensure my vehicle/incident is included in NHTSA's records on this ongoing safety issue.
The engine in my 2018 Hyundai Elantra suffered a sudden internal failure at 118,444 miles. The vehicle began knocking, losing power, and running roughly. A dealership inspection confirmed heavy scoring on cylinders 1, 3, and 4, oil intrusion into the cylinders, and piston top slapping. The engine is not repairable and requires full replacement. This failure matches the known defect pattern of Hyundai’s Nu 2.0L MPI engine, which has widespread issues with piston ring wear, oil consumption, cylinder scoring, and internal mechanical failure. The failure occurred without warning/messages and created a safety hazard due to loss of power while driving. My VIN is not included in any recall, but the defect is identical to other Hyundai engine failures that have resulted in recalls and investigations. I am reporting this because the engine failure appears to be part of a larger safety‑related defect affecting this engine family.
My daughter was in a parking lot and put her car in park, removed her keys and exited the vehicle. She walked around the vehicle and was removing her school bag and the car came out of park and rolled into another vehicle.
Alarming rate of oil consumption causes sudden loss of power / acceleration which definitely increases probably of causing an accident. Local repair shop confirmed extremely low oil level with no evidence of where oil went shortly after oil change and annual safety inspection. All the dashboard warning lights came on when it happened but low oil warning light came on prior to event. No warning whatsoever, just sudden loss of power and completely lit up dashboard.
Engine has consumed an alarming rate of oil for years. I brought to a mechanic and they performed a $2,600 repair on engine. It ran fine for while and got much worse with oil consumption to the point that I needing to add oil monthly. It has been difficult to keep up on keeping enough oil in car and engine has now sustained damaged. There is no ticking or noise, but there is a loss of power and sometimes, the engine runs rough. I continue to drive it and add oil. But I have researched this is an apparent problem with the elantra.
The contact owns a 2018 Hyundai Elantra. The contact stated while the vehicle was parked, the contact stated that while entering the vehicle, the contact noticed an unusual burned spot on the back rest of the front passenger's seat. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 86,040.
The vehicle is experiencing premature paint failure and delamination on factory-painted body panels with Quartz White Pearl (W8) paint. Paint is peeling, chipping, and separating from the underlying surface without collision damage, abnormal wear, or neglect. The issue appears consistent with widely reported Hyundai white paint adhesion defects affecting similar vehicles and paint codes. The condition developed gradually and continues to spread to additional areas of the vehicle. The affected paint failure exposes underlying surfaces and may reduce long-term corrosion protection of the body panels. No warning lights or messages appeared prior to the issue. The vehicle remains operational, but the paint defect appears to involve loss of adhesion of the factory-applied paint system rather than normal cosmetic wear or isolated rock chips. The issue is available for inspection upon request. The manufacturer has issued warranty extensions and programs related to similar white paint delamination conditions on Hyundai vehicles, but this vehicle was reportedly excluded despite having the affected paint code and similar failure pattern.
Unknown Car is knocking and consuming oil quickly. Oil changes done as appropriate. Timing belt/chain changed almost 2 years ago. Garage now says we have an oil consumption issue and need a new engine! We are out of warranty and power train.
I am filing a safety complaint regarding a complete engine failure on my Hyundai vehicle. My vehicle experienced sudden engine failure and is now completely inoperable. There were no prior warning lights that indicated an imminent failure (or: include warning details if you had them). The vehicle shut down and cannot be restarted or driven. There are no open recalls associated with my VIN; however, I am reporting this because the failure appears to be sudden and severe, and I am concerned it may indicate a potential manufacturing defect or broader engine issue. The vehicle is still under financial obligation, and the engine failure has rendered it unusable. I am requesting that this incident be documented for safety tracking and investigation purposes.
I had my car brakes replaced checked for the past three months it's been making a grinding noise when braking at slow speeds had the car checked 3 different shops, they said rotors and pads are perfectly fine almost new, but the grinding is still there dust shield is not touching pads are new, rotors on specifications normal now i am reading this could be due to abs system the grinding my car is a 2017 bought on 2018 so shows up as 2018 and there are some recalls on the abs for this car please help. I am concerned about that grinding and there isn't anything metal to metal hubs everything is fine, I can only hear when braking at slow speeds and bumper to bumper braking kind of riding the brake to come to stop grinding creaking
We purchased the car 4 or 5 months for my son who works for his God Mom as her assistant at a nonprofit. The car ran great until without no warning lights from instrument panel just left him sit in the middle of a busy road. The mechanic found a camshaft pin stuck in the camshaft & the timing jump 2 teeth. Repairs= Oxygen Sensor, Timing Component & Exhaust Camshaft total $3,557. Some 2018 are being recalled for the same issue but not his VIN.
I am writing to formally report a safety concern regarding my 2018 Hyundai Elantra. The vehicle has experienced a failure of the heater hose/pipe, which appears to be made of plastic and connected to a metal component. This failure has resulted in a coolant leak, creating a serious risk of engine overheating. This issue is not only inconvenient but also dangerous. A sudden loss of coolant while driving can cause the engine to overheat without warning, potentially leading to engine failure, loss of vehicle control, or leaving the driver stranded in unsafe conditions. This is especially concerning while driving on busy roads or highways. Based on my experience and discussions with repair professionals, this appears to be a known issue with this model, as the part is not widely available outside of Hyundai/Kia and may indicate a design flaw. A critical cooling system component should not fail prematurely under normal driving conditions. Given the safety risks associated with this defect, I believe this issue warrants further investigation and consideration for a recall or extended warranty coverage. Consumers should not be responsible for costly repairs caused by a potentially defective design. I respectfully request that Hyundai review this issue and provide assistance with the repair, as well as take appropriate action to ensure the safety and reliability of affected vehicles. Sincerely, [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552
The paint is chipping and cracking and just falling off. It started on the hood now it’s going to around the windows seals and part of the roof.
Cars engines stopped for no apparent reason pulled over and it started back up but it stopped two more times within a two block radius both times it restarted the date was2/17 26 on the next day it did the same thing but only once
The oil plug fell out and caused significant damage to the engine where the engine is seized and no longer works. It can be inspected if requested. Check oil light did not turn on. The car wouldn't run and almost got stuck in the middle of the road. The problem is common and recognized by you. No remedy has been made with the manufacturer. Insurance inspected it and told us that it was due to an impact wrench not being used to tighten the oil plug. There were not.
The paint, there was a recall in the last but my vehicle isn’t apart of it but I have a silver 2018 Hyundai Elantra and my paint is just peeling like crazy! It’s peeling all of the good the roof and now starting in the back of the trunk where the rear window is located. It is starting to rust on the hood.
The rare brake light is working fine but the car dashboard computer keeps on saying „Check rare brake light“ intermittently. It either needs a repair (although brake lights are working) or a replacement. Please resolve this issue because other Elantra owner have reported the same.
I have a 2018 Hyundai Elantra with about 155k miles. It has been consuming oil excessively and has developed serious drivability issues. If I try to accelerate even slightly harder than normal—especially above 2,000 RPM—it makes a metallic, chain-type rattling noise, loses power, and produces heavy smoke from the exhaust. The smoke sometimes continues even after shutting the engine off and restarting. Because of this, I’ve been avoiding rapid acceleration and slowly working up to highway speeds. The car also periodically shakes at idle, idles higher than normal at times, and the RPMs will occasionally rise on their own. In the past it has stalled randomly, and sometimes it feels like the transmission is “stuck” and won’t shift properly. Despite all this, there are currently no check-engine codes. This is terrible and clearly there’s been lawsuits and other recalls regarding the same issue and same engine but nothing for mine? I am out of warranty and had no clue the amount of issues the car was going to have until last year and I’m screwed now, insurance doesn’t cover issues with the engine or transmission. Neither will Hyundai?! Last year Hyundai performed a CVVT repair that cost about $6,000, which temporarily improved things, but the symptoms returned shortly afterward. When I brought it back, they said they couldn’t recreate the issue. The car is now out of warranty. Separately, the car was stolen two months ago due to the immobilization fault and TIk TOKs videos and the
What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? The car began stalling and started to become unresponsive while I was driving to work. While I was not 100% sure of what component was malfunctioning at the time, I suspected that it might be a timing chain problem because I had this same exact issue happen to to this car back in January 2025. I did not expect this issue to occur again because at the time of the previous problem, the dealership confirmed that issue was the timing chain and the VVT system, and replaced those components with new parts. How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? The car started stalling and sputtering, then became unresponsive while I was driving. If I were in a high-traffic area, I'm not confident that I would have been able to accelerate, stop, or safely pull over to the side of the road without putting myself and/or someone else in harms way. Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? Yes, the car is currently at the dealership and they confirmed that the issue is the timing chain and the VVT system. Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others? Yes, the car is currently at the dealership and they confirmed that the issue is the timing chain and the VVT system. Were there any warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, and when did they fir
It is showing signs of excessive oil consumption. 200 miles before my next scheduled oil change there was no oil in the car, causing overheating issues. It uses the same engine as other recalled years for the same issue. However they never issued a recall for the 2018. The only update I've ever received was a surprise notice from Valvoline, mid oil change, that if I didn't use the more expensive oil change option, which I couldn't afford in the moment, that I would void any warranty from Hyundai. There was no prior notice or contact from Hyundai informing me of this "New" (the valvoline tech's words not mine) policy. So not only is my car experiencing an issue known to affect this engine, they get to absolve themselves from responsibility by surprising someone with a greater expense than they are expecting, by not giving notice to their customers? This doesn't seem fair and needs to be addressed. Since that first visit I have followed their recommended oil change specs and still have excessive consumption. The date I'm giving is the approximate date of that first visit to valvoline when my car had no oil and I was told mid change about the new policy.
Initial Fault Code: P0303 Replaced all 4 spark plugs and all 4 ignition coils. The check engine light extinguished momentarily but returned, logging P0303 and a new P0301 Replaced all 4 fuel injectors. CEL extinguished momentarily and then returned, logging P0303. Replaced the entire engine electrical harness. Concurrently, all related electrical components and connectors were meticulously cleaned with professional contact cleaner. CEL extinguished for significantly longer period of time, and then returned, re-logging P0303 and P0301. Thid suggested the ECU was "handshaking" with new components but re-logging the fault upon detecting the persistent core issue. A full compression test was performed. All cylinders reported results within specification. Using a borescope I inspected cylinder walls in piston tops. There was significant carbon residue buildup but nothing out of the ordinary for similar GDI engines. I still performed a PEA GDI specific chemical cleaning. It was a a little smoother afterwards, but the misfire persisted and CEL remained on. I also removed, cleaned, and tested common sensor faults, with no result. Also p0128 code and no start / electrical drain, and engine light started flashing numerous occasions had to stop the vehicle. I tried swapping the coils, but all that proved was that the coil was good, I did a power and ground test, it passed the connector had 12 plus volt power and a perfect resistance to static ground. The signal wire from the coil connec
My engine blew in September 2024. I had it replaced. When I replaced it I got a one year warranty and unlimited mile warranty. It now blew in July 2025. I have had it hyundai of mankato which they didnt want to wait on hyundai of America to do anything to fix it and told my mechanics to have my car get offline their lot. My mechanics towed my car to Happy Hyundai of Rochester. HYUNDAI of America will not accept my warranty now and just pay for the new motor, tear down, and the time they have in it. Hyundai of America told my mechanics if they took it from Hyundai of Mankato and brought it to another dealership that they approve of that they would accept my warranty and pay for all parts and everything. Hyundai of America picked Happy Hyundai of Rochester. Where my car is.
Excessive oil consumption. Engine completely dry after 3500 miles in between oil change with no check oil warning light
The contact owns a 2018 Hyundai Elantra. The contact stated that after an oil change was performed at Jiffy Lube, the engine seized while driving. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle lost motive power. Several unknown warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was coasted to the side of the highway and parked. The vehicle was towed to the residence, and the tow truck driver informed the contact that an unknown engine part had detached on the road and there was no oil in the engine. Jiffy Lube inspected the vehicle at the residence and informed the contact that they were not responsible for the engine failure, which was caused by a lack of oil changes after 10,000 miles. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 86,151.
In early May 2023 I was driving my 2018 Elantra vehicle on the expressway. I had hot an area where there was traffic and had to slow down and move along with the speeds everyone else was going. When I slowed down my engine quit. Everything turned off and the car was stalled. I was able to turn the car back on and start the engine but there was a loud knocking sound coming from the engine and when applying my foot on the gas it wasn't going anywhere. It stalled in traffic again. I put it in park, and restarted it and got enough gas for it to move and get off the main road. I called a tow company and had a certified mechanic take apart the engine $600 and Inform me the engine was shot. The car had maybe 80,000 miles on it. I had no idea what to do. The car sat at the repair shop for several weeks while I figured out what to do. I had it towed to a Hyundai dealership and had them look at it. They told me that there was no recall and that since I wasn't the original owner their powertrain warrenty was not valid. They did their diagnosis, another $300 just for them to tell me the same thing the other mechanics told me, the engine was shot and needed to be replaced. They put together a list of items that needed to be replaced and repaired and it came out to over $17,000 and Hyundai would do nothing for me. A vehicle with less than 80,000 that's engine fails is a recall in my book. It's now been over 2 years and I continue to pay for a car I cannot drive, and Hyundai still doesn't a
We were heading back to Ohio at Mile marker 8 75N Kentucky when we heard a boom. Then we saw smoke as my husband was pulling over. We jump out to get our child out of the car seat and at the same time a pickup truck pulls up with two guys. They yell that our cars on fire and began putting the fire out with a fire extinguisher. We had an oil change before we left Ohio by Valvoline. This area of the hwy isn't really patrolled and only has a volunteer fire department. A constable just happened to pass by US on the way to Indiana.
Passenger side brake light keeps going out and has been replaced twice
Oil consumption will cut off while driving
The engine of my 2018 Hyundai Elantra has a rod bearing defect covered under a safety recall. The vehicle has not been repaired yet, and the issue prevents the car from being safely operated. I have incurred towing expenses due to the inability to use the vehicle, and I am concerned about potential engine failure or safety hazards if the defect is not addressed promptly.
The dealership replaced my engine and spark plugs when the pistons were grinding metal causing a catastrophic failure in November of 2024. In July of 2025 I started experiencing the same issues and the dealership stated that Hyundais ignition coils have a high rate of failure because they changed the design and used my old ones from my engine replacement. It is now I brought my car into the dealership July 18th and they stated that was their best guess but they didn’t now forsure. I was never informed of the high rate of failure until I was experiencing it.
Oil leaking from pistons in engine just like the recalled engines
The car keeps lagging on acceleration i had the throttle body checked and cleaned and they said it was fine i have been doing all maintenance required by manufacturer, but sometimes is lacking on the power loses acceleration, i see these model has a recall but when i entered my vin number doesn't show up so i am concerned why is not covered as it could lead to my car been stalled in the middle of the highway, dealer wants 300 dollars just to take it in and usually they can't reproduce the issue , what should i do in this case, i dont want to wait until i have an accident for this to be checked thank you
I have been having transmission issues with my car since before July 2024. The transmission would stutter or not engage when I put my foot on the accelerator. The transmission failed in November 2024 and was eventually replaced by Hyundai in May 2025. I noticed stuttering the first day of having my car back but was told there was nothing wrong with it. Today, Sept.11, I was making a left turn on a busy two lane road. I had enough distance between the oncoming truck to make the turn. When I put my foot on the accelerator, my car rolls into the road but clutch is not engaging. As the truck is now fast approaching my car that's basically sitting in the road the clutch engages. Since my foot had been on the accelerator the whole time, I was probably at like 3000rpm so we lunged forward slamming our heads into the seat. Every time I have taken this car to Hyundai complaining about issues with the transmission they say it's perfectly fine. Since their certified technicians say it's perfectly fine, then I am only left to assume that there is an inherent flaw in the transmission that is allowing events like this to occur and based on my experience have the potential to result in a crash.
I purchased a 2018 Hyundai Elantra on April 3, 2024, from CarMax. At the time of purchase, I was not told about any recalls. Later, I discovered that my vehicle is covered by Hyundai Service Campaign 993 (Anti-Theft Software Upgrade), issued February 13, 2023, which addressed the lack of an immobilizer in 2011–2022 Hyundai vehicles. On May 29, 2025, my vehicle was stolen due to this defect. When it was recovered, it had a blown engine and was completely inoperable. Hyundai acknowledges that my VIN is included in the recall, but they have only offered to install the software update now. That does not remedy the damages caused by the theft and resulting engine failure. CarMax has denied responsibility, claiming they were not aware of the recall. I am now left with a financed vehicle that is not drivable and has lost significant value due to Hyundai’s defective design.
Burning oil. Multiple misfires. Replacing spark plugs more often than should have to. Engine knocking.
The crankshaft needed replacement The oil pump broke at 107,000 miles
I started my vehicle and it was running sluggish and low idle. I had an engine light and when I tried to drive there was a clanking sound. When I had the engine light tested I received the following codes: P0017 - Crankshaft Position Correlation Bank 1 Sensor B, P0303 - Cylinder 3 Misfire Detected, P0302 - Cylinder 2 Misfire Detected, P0301, P0014 - Exhaust Camshaft Position Timing - Over Advanced (Bank 1), P0030 H02S Heater Control Circuit (Bank 1, Sensor 1) I had it towed to my nearest Hyundai dealer in Tacoma, WA. After they did a diagnostic they said that they would have to replace the engine due to a shearing of a pin, leading to the belt jumping and causing issues. I am the only owner of the vehicle, I have had all my oil changes on time and my vehicle is 137,000 miles. This should not be happening in a vehicle with such low mileage. In reading online, this is an issue that Hyundai is aware of but not concerned with. There was no warning beforehand. This could have led to my engine stalling on the the freeway at freeway speeds and thus could have caused a great accident and bodily harm to myself and others. Hyundai has denied responsibility but knows this is an ongoing issue with it's poorly manufactured engines. I was not informed of all the problems of Hyundai vehicles before I purchased mine. I have yet to receive help from Hyundai Customer Service or the Hyundai Dealer.
Burning oil internally. Adding 1 quart about every 1000 miles.
I am writing to report an issue with a paint recall repair performed on my Hyundai vehicle. The vehicle was repaired in 2023 at Sheehy Hyundai of Waldorf. However, the paint has started peeling within one to two years of the repair, which indicates that the issue was not properly resolved. I spoke with Hyundai corporate office which offered no solutions and deferred me to the dealership whom performed the repainting. After speaking with the dealership I was told that is just what happens with this color vehicle and that a ticket of some sort was submitted and denied by corporate to fix the issue. I am seeking assistance from the NHTSA to address this matter and ensure that the recall repair is appropriately handled.
Formal Complaint: Engine Failure in 2018 Hyundai Elantra To Whom It May Concern, I am submitting this formal complaint regarding a severe and unresolved issue with my 2018 Hyundai Elantra, which has been problematic since the time of purchase and has now suffered a complete engine failure. Despite regular maintenance and responsible use, the vehicle has proven to be unreliable and unsafe. 1. Nature of the Problem The most recent and critical issue involves total engine failure. On May 12, 2025, I brought the vehicle to North Freeway Hyundai due to the car not starting. Their official diagnostic report revealed that the engine needs to be replaced. Additionally, the inspection showed issues with the transmission cooler coolant lines leaking, EFI system, camshaft exhaust, radiator hoses, and the battery. These problems affect essential systems that are critical to both the performance and safety of the vehicle. 2. History of the Problem From the beginning, the vehicle experienced a series of mechanical issues. These included engine stalling, warning indicator lights, rough idling, and decreased fuel efficiency. I consistently took the car in for service and maintenance, yet the problems worsened. In the days leading up to the failure, the vehicle had trouble starting, made abnormal noises, and eventually stopped working entirely. 3. Risk to Safety The failure of the vehicle to start without warning has placed me in unsafe and potentially dangerous situations, including being st
I am filing this Vehicle Owner's Questionnaire (VOQ) regarding critical safety defects in my 2018 Hyundai Elantra related to: - Recurrent ignition coil pack failures (3 replacements since 10/2018) - Engine stalling at low speeds (6 incidents since 10/2018) - Dealer refusal to apply TSB 20-01-008H ECM update despite matching symptoms Technical Background: Hyundai Technical Service Bulletin 20-01-008H (February 2020) specifically addresses: - Misfire detection logic flaws in 2018-2019 Elantra 2.0L engines - Required ECM software update (ROM ID AD8SP2AS673D) - Updated ignition coils (P/N 27300-2E601) Safety Incidents: 2025: Stalling event at 25 mph approaching traffic light (no crash) 2021, 2023, 2024: Multiple misfire codes (P0300-P0304) with check engine light Dealer Interactions: - Round Rock Hyundai refused ECM update on 05/2025 claiming "VIN not in campaign" - Round Rock Hyundai refused coil replacements on 05/2025 claiming not under warranty - Service advisor acknowledged stalling/coil failure pattern matches TSB criteria Formal Requests: - Investigate Hyundai's VIN filtering for TSB 20-01-008H applicability Require Hyundai to: - Perform ECM software update per TSB specifications - Replace all coils with updated P/N 27300-2E601 - Reimburse previous coil replacement costs $1700 (6 coils over 7 years) - Open recall investigation for 2018 Elantra ignition systems Attachments available upon request. I authorize NHTSA to share my contact information with Hyundai Motor America.
Complaints 1-50 of 284, newest first, reproduced as filed.
Across model years
Worst on record: 2013| Year | Complaints | Recalls | Fires | Deaths | Assessment |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | 3 | 3 | 0 | 0 | Routine |
| 2025 | 22 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Routine |
| 2024 | 56 | 1 | 0 | 0 | Routine |
| 2023 | 101 | 2 | 0 | 0 | Routine |
| 2022 | 102 | 5 | 1 | 0 | Routine |
| 2021 | 132 | 6 | 1 | 1 | Fatalities reported |
| 2020 | 254 | 3 | 6 | 2 | Fatalities reported |
| 2019 | 252 | 1 | 3 | 1 | Fatalities reported |
| 2018 — this page | 284 | 0 | 7 | 1 | Fatalities reported |
| 2017 | 770 | 4 | 6 | 0 | Above average |
| 2016 | 293 | 2 | 5 | 0 | Above average |
| 2015 | 262 | 3 | 8 | 0 | Above average |
| 2014 | 386 | 2 | 16 | 2 | Fatalities reported |
| 2013 | 1,314 | 4 | 31 | 0 | High concern |
| 2012 | 654 | 4 | 12 | 0 | Above average |
| 2011 | 433 | 5 | 8 | 0 | Above average |
| 2010 | 380 | 3 | 9 | 1 | Fatalities reported |
| 2009 | 254 | 4 | 11 | 0 | Above average |
| 2008 | 315 | 7 | 24 | 0 | High concern |
| 2007 | 267 | 6 | 13 | 0 | Above average |
| 2006 | 155 | 1 | 0 | 0 | Routine |
| 2005 | 137 | 4 | 3 | 0 | Routine |
| 2004 | 182 | 5 | 2 | 0 | Routine |
| 2003 | 234 | 5 | 1 | 0 | Above average |
| 2002 | 342 | 6 | 4 | 2 | Fatalities reported |
| 2001 | 315 | 6 | 4 | 1 | Fatalities reported |
| 2000 | 197 | 1 | 2 | 0 | Routine |
| 1999 | 128 | 2 | 2 | 0 | Routine |
| 1998 | 55 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Routine |
| 1997 | 115 | 3 | 0 | 1 | Fatalities reported |
| 1996 | 100 | 3 | 3 | 2 | Fatalities reported |
| 1995 | 112 | 1 | 5 | 0 | Routine |
| 1994 | 76 | 2 | 2 | 0 | Routine |
| 1993 | 24 | 0 | 1 | 0 | Routine |
| 1992 | 29 | 0 | 4 | 0 | Routine |
2018 Hyundai Elantra: questions buyers ask
Is the 2018 Hyundai Elantra a good car?
It is not among the Elantra years to avoid. Owners filed 284 complaints, against about 243 for a typical Elantra year. The most common complaint is about the engine (43%). In NHTSA crash tests it scored 4 stars overall.
What is the most common problem with the 2018 Hyundai Elantra?
The engine: 121 of the 284 complaints (43%) are about it. Owners most often say it turns on the check engine light (32%), sets off warning lights on the dash (31%) and stalls (29%). The typical report comes at 36,668 miles.
At what mileage do 2018 Hyundai Elantra problems start?
Half of the complaints that record an odometer reading came in before 26,600 miles. For the engine the midpoint is 36,668 miles.
Are there service bulletins for the 2018 Hyundai Elantra?
The manufacturer filed 123 technical service bulletins and other notices for it with NHTSA, most of them about the electrical system (36), the engine (16) and the steering (12). They include a warranty extension, Z05 OL, filed Aug 26, 2026. A bulletin is a repair instruction to dealers, not a recall: the fix is usually free only under warranty.
Reading this record
1 death reported in complaints filed with NHTSA.
Complaint counts track how many cars were sold and how long they have been on the road as much as they track quality. A common model from 2013 has had a decade to accumulate reports; a rare one from last year has not. The signal worth weighing is in the severity columns, in whether the same component keeps appearing, and in whether the manufacturer eventually opened a recall for it.
Most recent recall on file: none. Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation.