← 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 · Mar 8, 2026
Engine

Car was constantly losing power, called Hyundai dealer about the OBI system thinking that could be the cause they told me no, and then in 2 years ago the car started stalling when you slowed down and on the way home from work it completely died. Car still turns over but car will not go, engine and transmission are completely don…

Read full complaint

Car was constantly losing power, called Hyundai dealer about the OBI system thinking that could be the cause they told me no, and then in 2 years ago the car started stalling when you slowed down and on the way home from work it completely died. Car still turns over but car will not go, engine and transmission are completely done. It’s been at my house sitting since. Hyundai dealer is a joke a wouldn’t help when the issue first arised.

NHTSA ODI #11722815

Mileage unknown · Feb 28, 2026
Electrical SystemExterior Lighting

1: Driver’s window: don't go up or down, it doesn't respond to control. 2: Headlight warning lights is on all the time because bulbs are burn out so soon after replacement .

NHTSA ODI #11721176

Mileage unknown · Feb 24, 2026
Unknown Or Other

I have been having this issue for several months. First, it was the steering wheel being locked. I believe at one point and time on the past they updated the computer on that vehicle. But this time the dealer told me there is nothing they can do. As of today, the car won’t start. How can I go to work? There is no Safety Reca…

Read full complaint

I have been having this issue for several months. First, it was the steering wheel being locked. I believe at one point and time on the past they updated the computer on that vehicle. But this time the dealer told me there is nothing they can do. As of today, the car won’t start. How can I go to work? There is no Safety Recall for this, but I didn’t brake the car’s computer, I don’t even know and want to know where it is located.

NHTSA ODI #11720310

Mileage unknown · Feb 12, 2026
Engine

After no previous issues, car stalled out multiple times on short drive to work. No warning lights and no subsequent diagnostic codes were reported. Upon final restart, engine started knocking severely. Upon investigation, the oil stick showed no oil in the pan. Vehicle was towed to trusted, licensed mechanic for evaluation whe…

Read full complaint

After no previous issues, car stalled out multiple times on short drive to work. No warning lights and no subsequent diagnostic codes were reported. Upon final restart, engine started knocking severely. Upon investigation, the oil stick showed no oil in the pan. Vehicle was towed to trusted, licensed mechanic for evaluation where we were informed about the potential of a failure due to rapid oil consumption. The mechanic confirmed the engine failure to to oil loss. Vehicle had received regular, documented maintenance and fluids were checked periodically between cycles. There was no low-fluid indicator prior to the mechanical failure. Dealership-level conversations confirmed the rapid oil consumption issue for the 2017 Elantra is common, but because the vehicle VIN was not listed as part of a prior recall no assistance could be provided to repair the engine. The dealer provided a full cost quote of $9,000 to replace the engine block with a remanufactured unit.

NHTSA ODI #11717588

Mileage unknown · Feb 12, 2026
Electrical System

There was a recall Electronic Power Steering (EPS) motor connector that was being done for 2017 hyundai elantras and my car is affected by it. Hyundai is saying my car is not affected by the recall that they put out for this issue.

NHTSA ODI #11717568

Mileage unknown · Feb 6, 2026
EngineFire

Driving on the highway in the far left lane. Check engine light came on, car stopped accelerating. Car came to a stop, car shut off. Smoke was coming out from under the hood and flames were seen underneath the car. Police and fire department arrived. Report states an electrical fire. Had car towed to Hyundai. Hyundai stated that…

Read full complaint

Driving on the highway in the far left lane. Check engine light came on, car stopped accelerating. Car came to a stop, car shut off. Smoke was coming out from under the hood and flames were seen underneath the car. Police and fire department arrived. Report states an electrical fire. Had car towed to Hyundai. Hyundai stated that the engine seized followed by the starter catching on fire. Car was only 2,000 miles in from last oil change. Was up to date on maintenance and safety inspection. Hyundai also stated there was a hole in the engine block. No prior issues with the car. The car would need roughly $16,000 in work done, confirmed by Hyundai. Car is now totaled. Car only had 121,000 miles on it.

NHTSA ODI #11716106

Mileage unknown · Feb 3, 2026
Engine

With no 'low oil' warning, the car's engine started may a knocking noise. Then, all kinds of warning lights started. Parked the vehicle and checked the oil the next day and there was NO OIL in the engine. This should not have been the case considering this car gets regular oil changes. Also, there was no oil spots or stains on t…

Read full complaint

With no 'low oil' warning, the car's engine started may a knocking noise. Then, all kinds of warning lights started. Parked the vehicle and checked the oil the next day and there was NO OIL in the engine. This should not have been the case considering this car gets regular oil changes. Also, there was no oil spots or stains on the driveway to also indicate an oil leak. This happened to my son while driving home from work on the interstate at 10:30 at night. That is concerning.

NHTSA ODI #11715210

Mileage unknown · Jan 30, 2026
Unknown Or Other

PROBLEM: DEALER CREATES FINANCIAL BARRIERS TO RECALL COMPLETION I am reporting systematic barriers to recall completion created by Hyundai's authorized dealer that forced me to incur $834.60 in transportation costs for what should be a "no charge" recall repair, potentially discouraging recall compliance. THE BARRIER: UNCONSCIO…

Read full complaint

PROBLEM: DEALER CREATES FINANCIAL BARRIERS TO RECALL COMPLETION I am reporting systematic barriers to recall completion created by Hyundai's authorized dealer that forced me to incur $834.60 in transportation costs for what should be a "no charge" recall repair, potentially discouraging recall compliance. THE BARRIER: UNCONSCIONABLE LOANER TERMS PREVENT RECALL COMPLIANCE How Dealer Creates Recall Barrier Capitol Hyundai's Loaner Contract: Service Manager Tray Nichols confirmed in writing (email 12/15/25, 7:42 AM) that loaner customers are liable for "ANY new damage that was not present before," including: Rock chips from highway driving Door dings in parking lots Small scratches from normal use Customer pays all repair costs Customer pays insurance deductible Customer risks insurance rate increases Why This Creates Barrier to Recall Completion Statistical Reality: AAA research: Average driver gets 1-2 windshield rock chips per year Over 36-day recall service period, rock chips are statistically inevitable Door dings in parking lots over 5+ weeks are unavoidable Customer cannot prevent damage no matter how careful Financial Risk to Customer: Potential repair costs: $500-1,000+ Insurance deductible: $500-1,000 Insurance rate increases: Long-term costs Total risk: $1,000-2,000+ for "free" recall Customer's Forced Choice: Use loaner → Risk $1,000-2,000+ in costs Don't use loaner → Pay for alternative transportation ($834.60 in my case) Delay/avoid recall → Keep driving defective vehicle Result: Financial disincentive to complete recall

NHTSA ODI #11714601

Mileage unknown · Jan 23, 2026
Electrical SystemEnginePower Train

While driving, pressing the accelerator pedal, the vehicle hesitated and stalled. No warning lights came on until after I attempted to turn the vehicle back on then the check engine light and low oil light were illuminated. My vehicle was towed to a local mechanic and I was informed that the engine was blown and to tow my car to…

Read full complaint

While driving, pressing the accelerator pedal, the vehicle hesitated and stalled. No warning lights came on until after I attempted to turn the vehicle back on then the check engine light and low oil light were illuminated. My vehicle was towed to a local mechanic and I was informed that the engine was blown and to tow my car to a Hyundai dealership as I was still under the 10 year/100k mile warranty. After getting my car to Hyundai, I was told I had to get a combustion cleaning for $800 whether the cleaning worked or not before any warranty work could be completed. The cleaning did not work and it was then found that a pin was sheared off inside the engine. My engine was then replaced under warranty but I still had to pay for the cleaning. A second mechanic looked over my paperwork after getting my car back 2 months later and noted that the engine failure could have been diagnosed without the cleaning as the cleaning would not have affected where the pin was sheared off. My 2017 Elantra had 90,315 at the time of this incident.

NHTSA ODI #11713030

Mileage unknown · Jan 15, 2026
Electrical SystemEngineStructure

to whoever it is that can help, I am reaching out to submit a formal complaint regarding my 2017 Hyundai Elantra due to ongoing mechanical and structural issues that began very shortly after I purchased the vehicle, which have progressively worsened. I made the purchase in January 2024 for approximately $13,000 with 60,000 mil…

Read full complaint

to whoever it is that can help, I am reaching out to submit a formal complaint regarding my 2017 Hyundai Elantra due to ongoing mechanical and structural issues that began very shortly after I purchased the vehicle, which have progressively worsened. I made the purchase in January 2024 for approximately $13,000 with 60,000 miles. The vehicle now currently has approximately 108,000 miles. Since purchasing the car, I have experienced consistent time consuming and serious issues that I believe indicate defects in manufacturing or design. First, the thermostat had failed during the first winter season I owned the Elantra, despite replacement the vehicle’s heating system still does not function properly. I’m not a fan of the cold. Also, the engine burns oil at an extreme rate. I am required to add oil literally every 2–3 days to prevent the engine from running dry, which presents a serious risk of engine failure and potential safety hazards while driving. And is also costly as oil is not cheap. In addition, the vehicle’s headlights developed spiderweb pattern cracking and shattered from the inside after approximately nine months of use, without any external damage. The paint has chipped across the vehicle, including in door jambs and other protected areas, suggesting poor paint quality. And recently, the lower engine underbody cover has completely broken down and disintegrated over time due to clips constantly falling out. Given the age of the vehicle and the normal use, the amount and severity of these issues are unacceptable. These defects have caused significant financial burden and raise serious concerns on vehicle safety and manufacturing quality. I am requesting that this complaint be reviewed for potential defects or recalls. I would also like Hyundai to be held accountable, either through compensation for the repairs required or replacement. Thank you for your time and attention to this matter. Sincerely, Owner of the 2017 Hyundai Elantra

NHTSA ODI #11711291

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