The Hyundai Elantra is one of the most reliable and well-manufactured Hyundai vehicles ever produced. The Elantra and its different iterations are universally loved for their top-tier aesthetics and superb performance.

Even though it is one of the more hassle-free Hyundais on the market, it has its own collection of troublesome years. So, let’s get to know this vehicle better and find out everything you need to know about this popular lineup.

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2013, 2012, 2010 Are The Worst Hyundai Elantra Model Years

Hyundai Elantra Fifth-Generation
Via: Hyundai

According to the CarComplaints website, the 2013 Hyundai Elantra has the highest overall complaint cases among all models of the generation. Also, based on factors like average mileage and repair cost, it is called the worst Hyundai Elantra produced.

The main problem with the 2013 model year is multiple engine issues. Constant ticking noises from the engine and engine failure are top of the list of this model year’s problems. This model’s engine tends to fail in mileages not that high, and it costs around $3640 to replace the engine. “While driving, the car stalled and wouldn't start. I had to leave it parked overnight and have it towed the next day to our dealership garage, where they told us we would need to replace the engine. We have a warranty that would cover the cost of this, but they will not honor it unless we can provide spotless records documenting all of the appropriate maintenance.” A 2013 Elantra owner reported on the CarComplaints.

There have also been many reports from 2013 Elantra owners on premature tire wear. Even with proper alignment, balancing, and rotation, this vehicle’s tires wear out in low mileages. It is not a severe problem to deal with but definitely an irritating one. Next on the long list of the issues is the grinding noises made by the brakes. Happening around the 10,000 miles mark, this issue is often solved by replacing the rotors and brake pads.

The 2012 model also comes with many engine issues, specifically engine failure, just like the 2013 model. Additionally, this model year features several electrical problems. A recurring electrical issue is that the engine does not start. No particular solution has been found for this problem as different owners have reported different approaches to handling the situation. Fuel system problems are also seen in this model year, and it has poor gas mileage.

There are also plenty of complaints on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) regarding the seat belts and airbags of the 2012 model. It seems that the airbag light comes on and stays on. Diagnostics have revealed a problem with the airbag control module and that it should be replaced. This problem costs about a thousand bucks, and the Hyundai warranty won’t cover it over the 60,000 miles mark.

The 2010 Hyundai Elantra’s staple problems are in the transmission department. A large number of owners have reported the transmission slipping problem. This issue tends to happen at fairly early mileages. Over two-thirds of the cases have been solved by replacing the transmission, which costs up to $1640.

Many owners have reported steering problems on the NHTSA website, stating that there are excessive knocking noises coming from the steering wheel. Replacing the coupling seems to be the solution to this problem.

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With Proper Maintenance, Elantra Can Reach Somewhere Between 200,000 To 250,000 Miles

2010 Hyundai Elantra Quarter Front View
Via Hyundai

Typically, a Hyundai Elantra can efficiently run for 200,000 to 250,000 miles without significant problems. You can get even more out of it with proper maintenance and car-taking. With average yearly driving mileage, you can get 14 to 15 years of driving experience out of an Elantra.

Maintaining your vehicle to the best of your abilities must be your number one priority. Following is the suggested maintenance regimen by the company, Hyundai itself:

  • At 7,500 miles: rotate tires, replace engine oil and filter, replace climate control air filter, inspect battery condition, disc pads, boots and driveshaft, muffler, and exhaust pipe
  • At 15,000 miles: inspect brake fluid, fuel filter, fuel tank air filter, parking brake, vapor hose
  • At 30,000 miles: inspect fuel lines, fuel hoses, and connections
  • At 60,000 miles: replace engine oil and filter, add fuel additive, inspect front brake disc, steering gearbox, and clutch fluid
  • At 120,000 miles: replace coolant, inspect drive belts, air conditioning refrigerant, and fuel tank air filter

According to Repairpal, the average annual cost for maintenance on a Hyundai Elantra is $452, which is much lower than the average for compact cars at $652. Also, the possibility of a repair being a severe or major issue is 9% for a Hyundai Elantra, which is 2% lower than the class average.

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Avoid Elantra’s troublesome Model Years And You’ll Have One Of The Best Compact Sedans On The Market

2012 Hyundai Elantra Interior
Via Hyundai

Hyundai Elantra is among the best compact sedans in the market, with impeccable design and top-notch performance. It is also one of the most reliable Hyundai vehicles with high safety attributes.

Having said that, there are always some black sheep in the lineup. The 2013, 2012, and 2010 are troublesome models with severe engine issues. Make sure to avoid these model years as much as possible. Also, check your vehicle of interest with a trusted mechanic to identify any potential problems.