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2020 Hyundai Elantra

2020 Hyundai Elantra: engine and powertrain dominate owner complaints

Of 238 complaints owners filed with NHTSA, the engine is by far the biggest concern, named in 100 reports (42%) and tied to 4 fires, 2 crashes, and 2 injuries. The next-largest cluster is the power train (45 reports, 19%). Together, engine and power train make up over 60% of all complaints, so power-loss and stalling are the main things to watch. Smaller but real flags: steering shows up in fewer reports (19, 8%) yet carries the most crashes (5) and 2 injuries, and headlight/exterior-lighting visibility comes up in 27 reports (11%).

Most reported areas

Engine safety 42%
The top complaint by far: 100 reports (42%), including stalling and sudden power loss. Linked to 4 fires, 2 crashes, and 2 injuries, so treat warning lights or rough running as urgent.
Power Train0 19%
The second-biggest area: 45 reports (19%), often described as hesitation or no power when accelerating. No crashes, fires, or injuries reported here.
Exterior Lighting safety 11%
27 reports (11%), commonly about weak headlight visibility at night. One report involved a fire.
Electrical System safety 10%
24 reports (10%). One report involved a fire.
Steering safety 8%
Fewer reports (19, 8%) but the most severe: 5 crashes, 2 injuries, and 1 fire. Don't dismiss any steering pull or noise.

Source: NHTSA owner complaints · 238 complaints

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General information compiled from public NHTSA complaint data, for reference only — not professional advice and not reviewed by automotive experts. Verify before acting; Team AM is not responsible for decisions made from it.