← New search

2017 Hyundai Elantra

Owner reports · Recalls · Investigations

More warning signs than most Elantra years

Owner complaints for the 2017 Hyundai Elantra are substantially higher than the model-year median of 182.

About this comparison →

When problems were reported

Mileage at the reported incident

280 reports with mileage · 486 unknown

NHTSA’s mileage field refers to the reported incident, not necessarily the filing date. This shows report counts, not the likelihood of a failure.

What to inspect

Issues worth paying extra attention to based on owner reports.

  • Engine. Review the 289 owner reports in this category and discuss these concerns during a pre-purchase inspection. Read reports →
  • Structure. Review the 134 owner reports in this category and discuss these concerns during a pre-purchase inspection. Read reports →
  • Electrical System. Review the 111 owner reports in this category and discuss these concerns during a pre-purchase inspection. Read reports →

NHTSA owner reports · September 18, 2026 snapshot.

37 crash reports6 fire reports19 injury reports

What owners actually said

766 reports
Mileage unknown · Jun 3, 2026
EnginePower Train

1. The engine architecture suffered a catastrophic mechanical failure. Specifically, severe, systemic internal oil consumption/vaporization starved the hydraulic timing chain tensioner of critical hydrostatic pressure. This caused the tensioner to collapse, creating slack in the steel timing chain, which then "jumped time" (skip…

Read full complaint

1. The engine architecture suffered a catastrophic mechanical failure. Specifically, severe, systemic internal oil consumption/vaporization starved the hydraulic timing chain tensioner of critical hydrostatic pressure. This caused the tensioner to collapse, creating slack in the steel timing chain, which then "jumped time" (skipped a tooth on the camshaft sprockets), causing the engine to instantly seize and lose all motive power. The vehicle and engine are fully intact and available for inspection at Pohanka Hyundai of Fredericksburg. 2. The vehicle suffered a sudden, complete loss of motive power and engine seizure while being driven at night on an unlit, dark secondary roadway. The driver (my daughter) was left suddenly stranded without power in a highly vulnerable, pitch-black location with passing traffic, presenting an immediate collision hazard and a severe personal safety risk before emergency assistance could arrive. 3. Yes. The vehicle was towed to an authorized Hyundai dealership (Pohanka Hyundai of Fredericksburg), where service technicians officially diagnosed that the engine had "jumped timing" and suffered a complete failure of the timing system, alongside a noted lack of engine oil volume due to vaporization. 4. The vehicle has been formally inspected and diagnosed by the authorized Hyundai dealership service department under Hyundai Motor America Corporate Case #[XXX]. No police or insurance inspections were required as no collision occurred. 5. No dash lights or warnings before failure. However, for a year prior, the engine exhibited severe internal oil vaporization, requiring constant top-offs between scheduled oil changes to maintain safe levels. There were zero external fluid leaks on the engine or ground; oil burned entirely internally. This chronic volumetric oil loss directly caused the sudden drop in pressure, hydraulic tensioner collapse, and catastrophic engine seizure. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ODI #11741872

Mileage unknown · Jun 1, 2026
Structure

Both passenger-side doors won't open without tugging on the handle when unlocking them. The front seat passenger door opens from the inside but has trouble opening from the outside. The backseat passenger does not open from the inside at all and has a hard time opening from the outside. Once we get the door open and the car rema…

Read full complaint

Both passenger-side doors won't open without tugging on the handle when unlocking them. The front seat passenger door opens from the inside but has trouble opening from the outside. The backseat passenger does not open from the inside at all and has a hard time opening from the outside. Once we get the door open and the car remains unlocked, the doors open fine (except for the back seat door). But once we lock and unlock the car, we get the same issue. I'm also experiencing paint chippng and rust on the roof of my car and the creases of the trunk.

NHTSA ODI #11741300

Mileage unknown · May 22, 2026
Power Train

What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? The ignition coil in my 2017 Hyundai Elantra Limited has failed multiple times over the past several years. This recurring issue has caused the vehicle to malfunction unexpe…

Read full complaint

What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? The ignition coil in my 2017 Hyundai Elantra Limited has failed multiple times over the past several years. This recurring issue has caused the vehicle to malfunction unexpectedly, creating safety concerns due to reduced engine performance, misfiring, and the potential for sudden loss of power while driving, which puts both myself and others on the road at risk. The failed component is available for inspection upon request. Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? This issue has occurred multiple times with my vehicle. After researching online consumer reports and owner complaints, I found that ignition coil failures appear to be a common and recurring issue reported by other 2017 Hyundai Elantra Limited owners. Based on these repeated failures and similar reports, this appears to be a known issue affecting this model. Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives, or others? I have reported this issue to Hyundai multiple times. Rather than addressing the root cause or issuing a recall for this recurring defect, Hyundai has repeatedly provided credits to assist with repair costs when the ignition coil fails. Despite the repeated failures and safety concerns, the underlying issue has not been permanently resolved. Were there any warning lamps, messages, or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, and when did they first appear? Prior to failure, the vehicle would experience rough starts, engine misfires, and poor performance. After these symptoms began, the check engine light would eventually illuminate. Once the warning light appeared, the vehicle became increasingly unreliable and would stall or shut off unexpectedly. On one occasion, the vehicle shut off completely while I was driving.

NHTSA ODI #11739603

Mileage unknown · Apr 22, 2026
Engine

Car is burning oil. Replaced timing chain and it continues to burn oil.

NHTSA ODI #11733102

Mileage unknown · Apr 22, 2026
Electrical SystemEngineVehicle Speed Control

I own a Hyundai Elantra with approximately 103,000 miles. The vehicle has developed an intermittent issue where the engine will suddenly stall while driving. This most often occurs when I am decelerating and turning, such as when entering or navigating roundabouts. At the time of the stall, multiple warning indicators appear si…

Read full complaint

I own a Hyundai Elantra with approximately 103,000 miles. The vehicle has developed an intermittent issue where the engine will suddenly stall while driving. This most often occurs when I am decelerating and turning, such as when entering or navigating roundabouts. At the time of the stall, multiple warning indicators appear simultaneously, including the check engine light, battery warning light, and a “no key detected” message. There are no prior warning signs before the failure occurs—no unusual noises, no loss of power leading up to the event, and no dashboard warnings in advance. The stall is sudden and unexpected. When the vehicle stalls, I must quickly shift into park and restart the engine. The car restarts immediately without hesitation, and all warning lights disappear. The vehicle then operates normally again until the issue randomly reoccurs. This has happened multiple times. This issue creates a safety risk because the vehicle loses power unexpectedly while in motion, particularly during low-speed turns and in roundabouts, which could increase the risk of a collision due to sudden loss of propulsion and reduced control. The problem has not yet been formally diagnosed by a dealer or independent repair shop, but based on research and similar reported cases, it may be related to an intermittent engine or electrical signal failure. The issue has not yet been inspected by the manufacturer, police, or insurance representatives. UNKNOWN as to the exact failed component, but the failure appears to involve a sudden loss of engine operation without warning, followed by immediate recovery upon restart.

NHTSA ODI #11733041

Mileage unknown · Apr 11, 2026
Electrical SystemEngineUnknown Or OtherFire

Component or system failed: The electrical and/or engine system failed spontaneously. Gray smoke originated from under the hood, followed by black smoke and an intense fire. The vehicle is NOT available for inspection as it was declared a total loss and scrapped 30 days after the incident. Safety risk: My safety was at immediate…

Read full complaint

Component or system failed: The electrical and/or engine system failed spontaneously. Gray smoke originated from under the hood, followed by black smoke and an intense fire. The vehicle is NOT available for inspection as it was declared a total loss and scrapped 30 days after the incident. Safety risk: My safety was at immediate risk as I was inside the vehicle when the fire began. Public safety was also threatened; the Bloomingdale Fire Department had to evacuate a Wendy’s restaurant and its customers for two hours due to the intensity of the fire and smoke. Confirmation of problem: The problem was confirmed as a Total Loss due to fire by the Bloomingdale Fire and Police Departments on the scene. Inspections: The vehicle was inspected at the scene by police and fire officials. No manufacturer or dealer inspection was possible because the fire occurred only 7 days after purchase and the vehicle was destroyed. Warning symptoms: There were no warning lamps, messages, or symptoms prior to the failure. The smoke appeared suddenly while the vehicle was parked and idling.

NHTSA ODI #11730591

Mileage unknown · Mar 20, 2026
Electrical SystemEngine

I am filing a formal complaint regarding my 2017 Hyundai Elantra SE (VIN: [XXX] ). The vehicle is currently experiencing severe safety issues, including unexpected engine stalling and loud mechanical rattling, alongside a P0014 diagnostic code. These symptoms align directly with the defects described in Recall 203 (NHTSA 21V3010…

Read full complaint

I am filing a formal complaint regarding my 2017 Hyundai Elantra SE (VIN: [XXX] ). The vehicle is currently experiencing severe safety issues, including unexpected engine stalling and loud mechanical rattling, alongside a P0014 diagnostic code. These symptoms align directly with the defects described in Recall 203 (NHTSA 21V301000) involving improper piston ring heat treatment and Service Campaign 966regarding engine bearing wear. As a consumer, I am extremely concerned about the risk of a crash due to sudden loss of power. I am really concerned for my son and I as I drive my vehicle. I am requesting: 1. An immediate inspection and confirmation of eligibility for an engine replacement at no cost to me. 2. Verification of the lifetime long-block warranty extension associated with the KSDS (Campaign 966) update. 3. Provision of a loaner vehicle or rental reimbursement while my primary vehicle is unsafe to operate. Please assign a case manager to this matter and provide a timeline for resolution. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ODI #11725959

Mileage unknown · Mar 17, 2026
Unknown Or Other

Subject: Escalation of Unresolved Case – Request for NHTSA Assistance Dear NHTSA, For several months, I have been dealing with an unresolved issue regarding my Hyundai vehicle. On February 18th, I was told the supervisor of my case manager at Hyundai Motor America would contact me within 5 to 10 business days. Today is March 1…

Read full complaint

Subject: Escalation of Unresolved Case – Request for NHTSA Assistance Dear NHTSA, For several months, I have been dealing with an unresolved issue regarding my Hyundai vehicle. On February 18th, I was told the supervisor of my case manager at Hyundai Motor America would contact me within 5 to 10 business days. Today is March 16th, and despite repeated requests, no supervisor has reached out. As a dialysis patient without a vehicle, these prolonged delays are affecting my health and safety. Since I have not been able to receive a response from the supervisor of my case manager, I am escalating this matter to your agency. I have a full email chain documenting these events, which I can provide upon request. For transparency, I am copying my case manager and Hyundai national customer service. I appreciate your assistance with this urgent matter. Sincerely, [XXX] Tel. [XXX] CC: [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ODI #11724833

Mileage unknown · Mar 16, 2026
Unknown Or Other

The paint keeps chipping off the nose of the hood as well as areas above the doors. I have had it repainted one time and it is chipping off again.

NHTSA ODI #11724762

Mileage unknown · Mar 9, 2026
Air Bags

The passenger airbag is not activating reliably. There was not an accident but the light indicating airbage is active does not light up when passenger sits in front.

NHTSA ODI #11723083

Official recalls

4

17V213000 · Steering:electric Power Assist System

Mar 28, 2017

Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2017 Elantra vehicles. The affected vehicles may have a damaged Electronic Power Steering (MDPS) connector resulting in a loss of electric power steering assistance.

Consequence & remedy

Consequence: Loss of power steering assist would require higher steering effort, especially at lower speeds, which may increase the risk of a crash.

Remedy: Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will replace the EPS motor, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin April 28, 2017. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-800-243-7766. Hyundai's number for this recall 161.

17V063000 · Service Brakes, Hydraulic:power Assist:hydraulic

Jan 26, 2017

Hyundai Motor Company (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2017 Elantra vehicles. In the affected vehicles, the brake booster may fail, resulting in a loss of power brake assist.

Consequence & remedy

Consequence: A loss of power brake assist can lengthen the distance needed to stop the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy: Hyundai has notified owners, and dealers will replace the brake system booster assembly, free of charge. The recall began on February 6, 2017. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-800-633-5151. Hyundai's number for this recall is 157.

16V956000 · Air Bags:frontal:driver Side:inflator Module

Dec 30, 2016

Hyundai Motor Company (Hyundai) is recalling certain model year 2017 Hyundai Elantra vehicles manufactured April 15, 2016, to September 13, 2016, and Sonata vehicles manufactured May 27, 2016 to September 16, 2016. In these vehicles, the end seal for the driver's frontal air bag inflator may not have been properly installed, possibly resulting in reduced inflation of the frontal air bag in the event of a crash.

Consequence & remedy

Consequence: In the event of a crash, an air bag that does not inflate fully increases the risk of injury.

Remedy: Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will replace the driver's frontal air bag module, free of charge. The recall began February 13, 2017. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 156.

16V232000 · Air Bags:frontal

Apr 21, 2016

Hyundai Motor Company (Hyundai) is recalling certain model year 2015-2016 Sonata vehicles manufactured May 29, 2014 to February 11, 2016, 2017 Elantra vehicles manufactured January 12, 2016 to February 22, 2016, and one 2016 Sonata Hybrid vehicle manufactured October 15, 2015. In these vehicles, the driver's frontal air bag may be missing a chemical enhancer required for the second stage air bag deployment, resulting in the second stage not deploying in certain crashes. The primary stage will deploy as intended.

Consequence & remedy

Consequence: An air bag that does not inflate increases the risk of injury.

Remedy: Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will replace the driver's frontal air bag module, free of charge. The recall began on May 5,2016. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 144.

Model-level recall history does not show whether a particular VIN is affected or has received a repair. Check a VIN with NHTSA ↗

NHTSA investigations

1

DP22003 · Loss Of Motive Power

Opened Sep 12, 2022 · Closed Dec 12, 2023

Status: closed (inferred from source dates) · Engine

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) received a letter dated July 13, 2022, petitioning the Agency to initiate a safety defect investigation into loss of motive power allegations attributed to oil drain pan assembly failures on certain Hyundai Motor America, Inc. and Kia America, Inc. vehicles spanning Model Years (MY) 2005-2021. The Petitioners cited examples of complaints indicating that the subject vehicles were experiencing rapid loss of engine oil due to oil drain plug back outs, resulting in loss of motive power and/or catastrophic engine damage. Additional complaints were provided which alleged that the oil drain pans lack sufficient structural integrity and are susceptible to cracking. The petition itself can be reviewed at NHTSA.gov under ODI number 11481745. On September 12, 2022, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened Defect Petition (DP22-003) to evaluate the Petitioners’ request. The Petitioners have provided additional complaints within four supplemental letters dated January 31, 2023, March 21, 2023, May 23, 2023, and August 4, 2023. ODI’s evaluation included the review and analysis of the complaints and supporting information submitted by the Petitioners, as well as additional complaints submitted directly to NHTSA which referenced either the oil drain plug or a crack in the oil pan. After reviewing the available data, ODI has not identified evidence that would support opening a defect investigation into the oil drain pan assemblies of the subject vehicles. Based on a review of the available information, a loss of motive power resulting from an oil drain plug back out has not occurred between the initial sale of a vehicle and the completion of its first oil change. If during an oil change service, a technician fails to remove the existing drain plug gasket before installing a new gasket, it is likely that a proper seal between the drain plug and the oil pan will not be made. An improper seal between the drain plug and oil pan could lead to the backing out on the drain plug, resulting in the sudden loss of oil while driving. Additionally, the provided examples of oil pan cracks were localized to the immediate vicinity of the oil drain plug and/or appeared to be the result of direct-contact with a tool during servicing.  There is no information to support that a vehicle-based defect exists relating to the oil pan assembly, and instead the documented incidents are related to the failure to follow the proper maintenance procedures during oil change service. In October 2023, Hyundai published a Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) that provided detailed instructions for oil change service on its gasoline powered vehicles, specifically highlighting the need to remove and replace the existing drain plug gasket prior to reinstalling the drain plug. After a thorough review of the material submitted by the petitioner, the information already in NHTSA's possession, and the potential risks to motor vehicle safety implicated by the petitioners' allegations, NHTSA does not believe that a formal investigation is warranted. Therefore, the petition is denied. A Federal Register Notice (FRN) further detailing NHTSA’s reasons for denial of the petition will be published. The reference numbers for the complaints to NHTSA cited by the petitioner can be found in the petition submission documents in the public file for DP22-003. To review those complaints and the additional complaints ODI added to its evaluation which are cited in the Closing Resume ODI Report Identification Number document, go to NHTSA.gov.

Go deeper into Hyundai Elantra problems