Hyundai

Elantra (MD)

2011-2016 · Compact Sedan · 4 engines
Best Engine ⚠️ Caution (2.5)
3,356 NHTSA Complaints
11 Recalls
74 Fire Reports
244 Crash Reports
Includes data from: ELANTRAELANTRA GTELANTRA TOURING
View all 5 generations of the Hyundai Elantra → 📋 Inspection checklist

NHTSA Safety Ratings About NHTSA ratings

Overall 5/5
Frontal Crash
4/5
Side Crash
5/5
Rollover
4/5 (10.9% risk)
ESC: Standard FCW: No LDW: No
Overall 5/5
Frontal Crash
4/5
Side Crash
5/5
Rollover
4/5 (10.9% risk)
ESC: Standard FCW: No LDW: No
Overall 5/5
Frontal Crash
4/5
Side Crash
5/5
Rollover
4/5 (10.9% risk)
ESC: Standard FCW: No LDW: No
Overall 5/5
Frontal Crash
4/5
Side Crash
5/5
Rollover
4/5 (10.9% risk)
ESC: Standard FCW: No LDW: No
Overall 5/5
Frontal Crash
4/5
Side Crash
5/5
Rollover
4/5 (10.9% risk)
ESC: Standard FCW: No LDW: No
Overall 5/5
Frontal Crash
4/5
Side Crash
5/5
Rollover
4/5 (10.9% risk)
ESC: Standard FCW: No LDW: No
Overall 5/5
Frontal Crash
4/5
Side Crash
5/5
Rollover
4/5 (10.9% risk)
ESC: Standard FCW: No LDW: No
Overall 5/5
Frontal Crash
4/5
Side Crash
5/5
Rollover
4/5 (10.9% risk)
ESC: Standard FCW: No LDW: No
Overall 5/5
Frontal Crash
4/5
Side Crash
5/5
Rollover
4/5 (10.9% risk)
ESC: Standard FCW: No LDW: No
Overall 4/5
Frontal Crash
3/5
Side Crash
5/5
Rollover
4/5 (11.0% risk)
ESC: Standard FCW: No LDW: No
Overall Not Rated
Frontal Crash
Side Crash
Rollover
4/5 (10.7% risk)
ESC: Standard FCW: No LDW: No

Engine Reliability Ratings

DOHC MPI NU

1.8L
⚠️ Caution (2.5)
311 complaints 51.8 per year Gasoline
1 fire report
View details

Complaint Breakdown

safety systems
77
steering
62
engine
48
other
40
electrical
38

Known Issues

Safety Systems Issues (77 complaints)
Steering Issues (62 complaints)
Engine Issues (48 complaints)

DOHC GDI NU

2.0L
Avoid (1.2)
211 complaints 51.8 per year Gasoline
13 fire reports
View details

Complaint Breakdown

engine
123
brakes
23
electrical
23
safety systems
19
other
19

Known Issues

Engine Issues (123 complaints)
Brakes Issues (23 complaints)
Electrical System Issues (23 complaints)

Hyundai Elantra Unidentified Engine

Avoid (1.1)
358 complaints 59.7 per year
13 fire reports
View details

Complaint Breakdown

engine
71
electrical
71
steering
62
wheels tires
45
brakes
38

Known Issues

Engine Issues (71 complaints)
Electrical System Issues (71 complaints)
Steering Issues (62 complaints)
Show 1 additional engine variant with limited data
These engines appear in fewer than 10 owner complaints and aren't included in the main ratings above. Low counts can mean a genuinely clean record, but they can also reflect VIN-decode anomalies in NHTSA data. Treat as informational, not as a confident rating.

2.0-I4-Gas

2.0L 4-cyl
Recommended (4.8)
1 complaint 1.0 per year Gasoline
View details

Complaint Breakdown

electrical
1
steering
1

Known Issues

Electrical System Issues (1 complaints)
Steering Issues (1 complaints)

Same engine used in

+119 more
BMW 5 Series (2024-2026)FORD Explorer (2011-2019)BMW X3 (2011-2017)KIA Sorento (2016-2020)SUBARU Impreza (2017-2023)AUDI Q7 (2017-2025)FORD Focus (2000-2007)HYUNDAI Tiburon (2003-2008)AUDI A5 (2008-2016)KIA Forte (2014-2018)JEEP Wrangler (2007-2018)VOLKSWAGEN Passat (2012-2022)FORD Escape (2001-2007)MAZDA B-Series (2000-2009)VOLKSWAGEN Golf (2006-2009)BMW 3 Series (2012-2018)MERCEDES-BENZ CLA-Class (2014-2019)DODGE Dart (2013-2016)BMW 4 Series (2014-2020)BMW X3 (2025-2026)NISSAN Sentra (2007-2012)BMW 2 Series (2022-2025)JEEP Cherokee (2014-2023)HYUNDAI Elantra (2017-2020)BMW X1 (2013-2015)DODGE Caliber (2007-2012)FORD Edge (2007-2014)BMW 5 Series (2011-2016)FORD Taurus (2010-2019)PORSCHE Macan (2015-2024)NISSAN Sentra (2013-2019)MERCEDES-BENZ GLA-Class (2015-2019)AUDI A3 (2006-2013)AUDI A6 (2012-2018)BMW 5 Series (2004-2010)BMW X2 (2018-2023)CHRYSLER Crossfire (2004-2008)FORD Edge (2015-2024)BMW X4 (2015-2018)CHEVROLET Tracker (2000-2004)JEEP Grand Cherokee (2000-2004)FORD Taurus (2000-2007)FORD Escape (2008-2012)AUDI A4 (2009-2016)VOLKSWAGEN New Beetle (2000-2010)CHRYSLER 200 (2011-2014)BMW 2 Series (2014-2021)BMW X4 (2019-2025)INFINITI Q60 (2017-2022)DODGE Ram (2002-2008)BMW 3 Series (2019-2025)VOLKSWAGEN Jetta (2019-2025)JEEP Patriot (2007-2017)AUDI A4 (2006-2008)VOLKSWAGEN Jetta (2000-2005)HYUNDAI Tucson (2005-2009)JEEP Compass (2007-2017)SUBARU Crosstrek (2018-2023)MERCEDES-BENZ Metris (2016-2023)FORD Escape (2013-2019)BMW 4 Series (2021-2025)AUDI TT (2000-2006)BMW 5 Series (2017-2023)HYUNDAI Tucson (2016-2021)FORD Focus (2012-2018)CHRYSLER Pacifica (2004-2008)AUDI Q3 (2019-2025)KIA Sportage (2005-2010)AUDI Q5 (2009-2017)BMW X1 (2023-2025)HONDA Civic (2001-2005)AUDI A3 (2015-2020)AUDI Q3 (2015-2018)BMW Z4 (2019-2025)AUDI A4 (2017-2025)VOLKSWAGEN Jetta (2006-2010)LINCOLN MKT (2010-2019)MAZDA Tribute (2001-2011)DODGE Neon (2000-2005)AUDI TT (2016-2023)LINCOLN MKZ (2013-2020)DODGE Intrepid (2000-2004)VOLKSWAGEN Tiguan (2018-2025)CHEVROLET Malibu (2008-2012)BMW Z4 (2009-2016)CHRYSLER 300 (2005-2010)BMW X2 (2024-2025)VOLKSWAGEN Golf (2022-2025)FORD Escort (2000-2003)VOLKSWAGEN Routan (2009-2014)MERCEDES-BENZ SLC-Class (2012-2020)CHEVROLET Silverado 1500 (2000-2006)VOLKSWAGEN Golf (2010-2014)VOLKSWAGEN Eos (2007-2016)DODGE Durango (2004-2009)VOLKSWAGEN Beetle (2012-2019)FORD EcoSport (2018-2022)FORD Transit Connect (2014-2023)HYUNDAI Elantra (2007-2010)FORD Fusion (2013-2020)VOLKSWAGEN Golf (2015-2021)VOLKSWAGEN Tiguan (2009-2017)VOLKSWAGEN Jetta (2011-2018)FORD Maverick (2022-2025)CHRYSLER PT Cruiser (2001-2010)FORD Focus (2008-2011)MERCEDES-BENZ C-Class (2015-2021)AUDI TT (2008-2014)VOLKSWAGEN Arteon (2019-2023)VOLKSWAGEN Golf (2000-2006)VOLKSWAGEN CC (2009-2017)CHEVROLET Cruze (2011-2019)HYUNDAI Elantra (2001-2006)FORD F-150 (2000-2003)BMW X1 (2016-2022)AUDI A4 (2002-2005)LINCOLN MKC (2015-2019)AUDI Q5 (2018-2025)FORD Escape (2020-2025)

Vehicle-Level Issues

These issues affect the Hyundai Elantra regardless of engine variant.

Engine Issues (841 complaints)
engine critical
Brakes Issues (577 complaints)
brakes critical
Electrical System Issues (549 complaints)
electrical critical
Steering Issues (495 complaints)
steering critical
Safety Systems Issues (439 complaints)
safety_systems critical

Recalls (11)

24V146000Feb 22, 2024serious
Latches/Locks/Linkages

Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2015-2016 Elantra vehicles. The trunk latch may become damaged, preventing the opening of the trunk from the inside. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 401, "Internal Trunk Release."

23V651000Sep 21, 2023serious
Service Brakes

Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2011-2015 Elantra, Genesis Coupe, Sonata Hybrid, 2012-2015 Accent, Azera, Veloster, 2013-2015 Elantra Coupe, Santa Fe, 2014-2015 Equus, 2010-2012 Veracruz, 2010-2013 Tucson, 2015 Tucson Fuel Cell, and 2013 Santa Fe Sport vehicles. The Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) module may leak brake fluid internally and cause an electrical short, which can result in an engine compartment fire while parked or driving.

20V061000Apr 1, 2020serious
Service Brakes

Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2007-2010 Elantra and 2009-2011 Elantra Touring vehicles. On February 21, 2020 Hyundai expanded the recall to include 46,425 model year 2007-2008 Entourage and 2007 Santa Fe vehicles. Moisture may enter the Anti-lock Brake (ABS) Module and result in an electrical short.

20V393000Feb 6, 2020serious
Equipment

Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2011-2012 Hyundai Elantra and Sonata Hybrid, 2012 Accent and Veloster vehicles. The 12V accessory socket outlet may have been over-tightened during installation, possibly disabling the thermal fuse and allowing the outlet to overheat with prolonged use, such as by using the Tire Mobility Kit air compressor to inflate a tire.

17V769000Nov 29, 2017serious
Service Brakes

Hyundai Motor Company (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2013-2014 Elantra sedan, coupe and GT vehicles. The brake pedal stopper pad can deteriorate allowing the brake light switch plunger to remain extended when the brake pedal is released. This will allow the brake lights to remain illuminated continuously. It can also allow the shift lever to be moved without depressing the brake pedal, or activate the engine management brake pedal override feature.

16V574000Feb 7, 2016serious
Exterior Lighting

Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain model 2013 Elantra vehicles manufactured December 1, 2012, to April 30, 2013. The brake pedal stopper pad can deteriorate allowing the brake light switch plunger to remain extended when the brake pedal is released.

15V871000Dec 22, 2015serious
Electronic Stability Control (Esc)

Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain model year 2011-2012 Elantra vehicles manufactured October 29, 2010, to October 25, 2011. Due to an electronic stability control (ESC) sensor malfunction, the brakes for one or more wheels may be applied unexpectedly and the engine power may be reduced. These symptoms will be accompanied by illumination of the ESC indicator lamp in the instrument cluster.

15V629000Jul 9, 2015serious
Suspension

Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain model year 2011 Elantra vehicles manufactured November 12, 2010, to March 31, 2011, and Sonata vehicles manufactured December 11, 2009, to February 28, 2010, originally sold in, or currently registered in, Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, West Virginia, Wisconsin and the District of Columbia. Road salt may corrode the front coil springs, possibly resulting in the coil springs fracturing.

14V310000Oct 5, 2014serious
Structure

Hyundai Motor Company (Hyundai) is recalling certain model year 2010-2012 Elantra Touring vehicles manufactured December 15, 2009, through May 7, 2012. The affected vehicles have a support bracket attached to the headliner that may become displaced during a side curtain airbag deployment.

13V113000Jan 3, 2013serious
Exterior Lighting

Hyundai Motor Company (Hyundai) is recalling certain model year 2006-2009 Accent, model year 2007-2011 Azera, Sonata and Sante Fe,2006-2011 Tucson, 2009-2011 Elantra Touring, 2007-2010 Elantra, 2008-2011 Veracruz, 2009-2011 Genesis, 2010-2011 Genesis Coupe, 2007-2008 Entourage, and 2006-2008 Tiburon vehicles. Originally, in April 2013, Hyundai recalled 1,059,824 model year 2007-2009 Accent and Tucson, model year 2007-2010 Elantra, model year 2007-2011 Santa Fe, model year 2008-2009 Veracruz, model year 2010-2011 Genesis Coupe, and model year 2011 Sonata vehicles. In September 2013, Hyundai informed the agency that it was adding more vehicles to this campaign, representing an additional 652,512 units. The total number of vehicles being recalled is now 1,712,336. In the affected vehicles, the stop lamp switch may malfunction. A malfunctioning stop lamp switch may cause the brake lights to not illuminate when the brake pedal is depressed or may cause an inability to deactivate the cruise control by depressing the brake pedal. Additionally, a malfunctioning stop lamp switch may also result in intermittent operation of the push-button start feature, affect the operation of the brake transmission shift interlock feature, preventing the shifter from being moved out of the PARK position and cause the Electronic Stability Control (ESC) malfunction light to illuminate.

13V115000Jan 3, 2013serious
Air Bags

Hyundai Motor Company is recalling certain model year 2011-2013 Elantra vehicles manufactured from November 12, 2010, through March 5, 2013. A support bracket attached to the headliner may become displaced during a side curtain airbag deployment.

Alternatives in Compact Sedan

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common 2011-2016 Hyundai Elantra problems?

The 2011-2016 Hyundai Elantra has accumulated 3,356 NHTSA complaints. The most frequently reported problem areas are Engine, Brakes, Electrical System. As with any used vehicle, an inspection before buying and a vehicle history report are recommended.

Which Hyundai Elantra engine is most reliable?

The 2011-2016 Hyundai Elantra was offered with 5 engine options. Based on NHTSA complaint data, the 1.8L ?-cyl has the lowest complaint density and is considered the most reliable choice for buyers.

Is the 2011-2016 Hyundai Elantra a good used car?

The 2011-2016 Hyundai Elantra can be a sound used car depending on trim, mileage, and maintenance history. With 3,356 total NHTSA complaints on record, prospective buyers should review the known problem areas and check for open recalls before buying.

How many NHTSA complaints does the 2011-2016 Hyundai Elantra have?

The 2011-2016 Hyundai Elantra has 3,356 complaints filed with NHTSA as of our latest data pull. Complaint counts reflect owner-reported issues and do not necessarily indicate defects or safety risks on their own.

What recalls affect the 2011-2016 Hyundai Elantra?

There are 11 NHTSA recalls affecting some 2011-2016 Hyundai Elantra vehicles. Recall status varies by VIN — check the NHTSA recall database at recalls.nhtsa.dot.gov with your specific VIN to confirm which campaigns apply.

What should I check before buying a used Hyundai Elantra?

Before buying a used Hyundai Elantra, verify all open recalls are completed via the NHTSA VIN lookup tool. Pay particular attention to Engine, Brakes, Electrical System, which are the most commonly reported problem areas. Request maintenance records, have an independent mechanic inspect the vehicle, and run a vehicle history report to check for prior accidents or title issues.

What are the NHTSA crash test ratings for the Elantra?

The 2016 Hyundai Elantra received an overall 5-star safety rating from NHTSA. Frontal crash: 4 stars. Side crash: 5 stars. Rollover: 4 stars (10.9% rollover probability). Electronic Stability Control: Standard. Forward Collision Warning: No. Lane Departure Warning: No. These ratings are based on standardized crash tests conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Data from NHTSA federal complaints database. 3,356 complaints analyzed. Data confidence: high. Last updated: 2026-05-23.

© 2026 The Weekly Driver