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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.

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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 · Jan 9, 2026
Unknown Or OtherVisibility/wiper

I bought a car in Hyundai ELANTRA2024 at drivers Mart in Orlando, Florida. About a month after I bought the car I brought it back for something to service dealership area and let them know that the paint was coming off my car. I did notice that there was a tiny little spot that someone putcover paint about a half inch to an inc…

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I bought a car in Hyundai ELANTRA2024 at drivers Mart in Orlando, Florida. About a month after I bought the car I brought it back for something to service dealership area and let them know that the paint was coming off my car. I did notice that there was a tiny little spot that someone putcover paint about a half inch to an inch. The service people the dealership told me that there was a known classaction lawsuit. They weren’t sure what had happened. I looked up the Class action lawsuit for peeling paint, and it did state that there was one for white, beige, and light blue in Canada that was an ongoing lawsuit. The one for US was only doing certain white vehicles. But there was a class action lawsuit for USA, but it was dismissed I think because they thought that it had to do with pebbles or something that came on the freeway etc. basically said it was buyers fault. So now I have taken it to Hyundai dealerships talking to corporate office making appointments four times, now my car as you see is almost 12 inches in diameter by eight more or less and getting bigger by minute because every time I wash the car{has to be by hand, or it rains. My car is bubbling the paint the paint on my car is all the way down to the metal. The metal is not protected so it’s actually rusting, etc. every time it rains it will add another couple inches to my paint coming off. I have called the corporate office again and got my answer on Wednesday, January 5 stating that there’s nothing else they can do, because my car’s is not on the recallThis does not make any sense. Obviously there’s a Facebook/Google sites called Hyundai paint peeling 7.7 k people are in the same predicament and very upset at Hyundai motors not doing anything. Is there any governments or state regulations that are helping people get their car painted or helping people have them be accountable for everything that needs to be done? Government/local have done nothing what is the agency that we need to contact?

NHTSA ODI #11709904

18,000 miles · Jan 6, 2026
Steering

The contact owns a 2017 Hyundai Elantra. The contact stated that while driving approximately 40 MPH, the steering wheel became difficult to turn to the left or the right. The contact stated there was no warning light illuminated. The contact had taken the vehicle to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed and determined …

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The contact owns a 2017 Hyundai Elantra. The contact stated that while driving approximately 40 MPH, the steering wheel became difficult to turn to the left or the right. The contact stated there was no warning light illuminated. The contact had taken the vehicle to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed and determined that the power steering module needed to be replaced. The mechanic advised the contact of NHTSA Campaign Number: 17V213000 (Steering) and referred the contact to the dealer. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact called a local dealer and was informed that the VIN was not included in the recall. The contact stated that the loss of power steering functionality was intermittent but gradually became a recurring failure. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 18,000.

NHTSA ODI #11709071

Mileage unknown · Jan 3, 2026
Structure

Year/Make/Model: 2017 Hyundai Elantra ________________________________________ Component or System Involved Exterior paint and primer adhesion on multiple body panels. Affected areas are available for inspection upon request. Description of the Problem This vehicle has experienced progressive paint peeling and delamination over …

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Year/Make/Model: 2017 Hyundai Elantra ________________________________________ Component or System Involved Exterior paint and primer adhesion on multiple body panels. Affected areas are available for inspection upon request. Description of the Problem This vehicle has experienced progressive paint peeling and delamination over approximately five years. The issue was first reported to Hyundai at approximately 60,000 miles, when peeling was limited. Since that time, large sections of paint have peeled from the hood, roof, and other exterior panels, exposing bare metal. Hyundai reviewed the condition and declined assistance. Hyundai has acknowledged similar paint and primer adhesion failures on certain vehicles through Warranty Extension Z05 and related Technical Service Bulletins. My vehicle, while not included due to paint color, exhibits the same type of paint failure. Safety Risk Paint delamination presents potential safety concerns, including glare from exposed surfaces, driver distraction, and the possibility of paint material detaching from the vehicle while in motion. Confirmation or Reproduction of the Problem The condition has been visually confirmed by the vehicle owner and reviewed by Hyundai. Inspections by Others The vehicle’s paint condition has been inspected by Hyundai representatives. Warning Lamps or Symptoms No warning lamps or messages are associated with this condition. The issue developed progressively over time. ________________________________________ Request for Review I am requesting that NHTSA review whether paint delamination and primer adhesion defects acknowledged by Hyundai may extend beyond the currently covered paint colors and affect additional vehicles of the same make and model. Reference: Hyundai Warranty Extension Z05 and related Technical Service Bulletins documenting paint adhesion failures. Thank you for your time and consideration

NHTSA ODI #11708521

Mileage unknown · Jan 3, 2026
Engine

Component or System Involved Engine and internal lubrication system. The engine and related components are available for inspection upon request. Description of the Problem In January 2025, this vehicle experienced a catastrophic engine failure and seized. An independent repair facility inspected the engine and reported metal f…

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Component or System Involved Engine and internal lubrication system. The engine and related components are available for inspection upon request. Description of the Problem In January 2025, this vehicle experienced a catastrophic engine failure and seized. An independent repair facility inspected the engine and reported metal fragments in the engine oil, indicating internal engine damage. The vehicle was then transferred to a Hyundai-authorized dealership for major engine repairs, which were completed on January 18, 2025. Less than one year later, the vehicle developed excessive oil consumption. In October 2025, the engine stalled and was found to have no oil, despite having received an oil change approximately one month earlier. The vehicle is currently undergoing Phase 2 of Hyundai’s oil consumption testing. The dealership has indicated a full engine replacement will likely be required. Oil consumption has been measured at approximately 1.5 quarts per 1,000 miles. This vehicle is not currently included in Hyundai’s engine recall or warranty extension, despite being the same make, model, and model year as vehicles that are covered and exhibiting the same failure characteristics. Hyundai and NHTSA have documented similar engine defects on other Elantra models due to piston oil ring issues, resulting in excessive oil consumption and engine failure. My vehicle exhibits the same symptoms and failure mode. Safety Risk Excessive oil loss can result in sudden engine stalling or seizure without warning, creating a risk of loss of propulsion while driving, including at highway speeds. Confirmation or Reproduction of the Problem The failure has been confirmed by an independent repair facility and by a Hyundai-authorized dealership through inspection and ongoing oil consumption testing. Inspections by Others The vehicle has been inspected by both an independent repair facility and a Hyundai-authorized dealership.

NHTSA ODI #11708512

Mileage unknown · Dec 27, 2025
EngineCrash

Excessive oil consumption/ vehicle dies while driving.

NHTSA ODI #11707284

99,112 miles · Dec 12, 2025
Engine

The contact owns 2017 Hyundai Elantra. The contact stated while driving 20 MPH and depressing the accelerator pedal, the vehicle hesitated and stalled. The check engine warning light and the low coolant level warning light were illuminated. The contact stated that a bystander assisted in pushing the vehicle into a parking lot. …

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The contact owns 2017 Hyundai Elantra. The contact stated while driving 20 MPH and depressing the accelerator pedal, the vehicle hesitated and stalled. The check engine warning light and the low coolant level warning light were illuminated. The contact stated that a bystander assisted in pushing the vehicle into a parking lot. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that the camshaft needed to be replaced. Additionally, the dealer diagnosed that the Continuously Variable Valve Timing (CVVT) and the timing chain needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V727000 (Engine); however, the model of the vehicle was not included in the recall. The dealer notified the manufacturer of the failure and was informed that the cost of the repair would not be covered because the VIN was not included in the recall. The failure mileage was 99,112.

NHTSA ODI #11704666

Mileage unknown · Dec 9, 2025
Engine

I've owned a 2017 Hyundai Elantra for a few years now, and it has been a headache. Over the course of the past year and a half, the engine has went out (seized) not once, not twice, but three times without any warning. I go to start the car one day and the engine bay starts shaking and power of the engine goes either completely …

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I've owned a 2017 Hyundai Elantra for a few years now, and it has been a headache. Over the course of the past year and a half, the engine has went out (seized) not once, not twice, but three times without any warning. I go to start the car one day and the engine bay starts shaking and power of the engine goes either completely out or down significantly. It feels like a gamble every few months of if my car will simply stop working. I've had the engine rebuilt twice already and will probably have to have it rebuilt again for the same issue (the timing).

NHTSA ODI #11704060

Mileage unknown · Nov 29, 2025
Electrical SystemUnknown Or Other

Both Driver and Passenger doors do not open from the outside.

NHTSA ODI #11702006

15,000 miles · Nov 26, 2025
Fuel System, Gasoline

The contact owns a 2017 Hyundai Elantra. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the contact heard an abnormal whistling sound coming from the rear of the vehicle. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an unknown dealer, where it was diagnosed that the fuel pump was fract…

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The contact owns a 2017 Hyundai Elantra. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the contact heard an abnormal whistling sound coming from the rear of the vehicle. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an unknown dealer, where it was diagnosed that the fuel pump was fractured and had failed. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 15,000.

NHTSA ODI #11701681

160,000 miles · Nov 13, 2025
Engine And Engine CoolingFire

The contact owned a 2017 Hyundai Elantra. The contact stated that they were informed by a family member that when the vehicle was turned on and moved into the driveway, smoke was coming from underneath the hood, where the engine was located. A while later, when returning to the vehicle, they noticed the vehicle had caught fire. …

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The contact owned a 2017 Hyundai Elantra. The contact stated that they were informed by a family member that when the vehicle was turned on and moved into the driveway, smoke was coming from underneath the hood, where the engine was located. A while later, when returning to the vehicle, they noticed the vehicle had caught fire. The fire department was called and extinguished the fire. There were no injuries or medical attention needed. The contact was unsure if a report was filed. The vehicle was towed and determined totaled. The dealer was not contacted. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 160,000.

NHTSA ODI #11699223

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