2010 Hyundai Elantra Touring used buying checklist

Test for the problems owners report most

The most reported problems of this model year, with what to look for on the test drive.

• Loss of power steering14 owner complaints, usually around 84,000 miles

  Turn the wheel from lock to lock while parked and on the road: it should be smooth, with no clunks, stiffness or warning lights.

• Sudden loss of power6 owner complaints

  Start the engine cold and listen for knocking or ticking. Check for warning lights, oil leaks and a low oil level, and ask how often oil had to be topped up.

• Pulls to one side5 owner complaints, usually around 1,000 miles

  Turn the wheel from lock to lock while parked and on the road: it should be smooth, with no clunks, stiffness or warning lights.

Make sure these recalls were done

Recall repairs are free at any dealer of the brand. Ask the seller for proof, or have a dealer check the VIN.

• Service brakes, hydraulicRecall number 20V061000, Feb 4, 2020
• SteeringRecall number 15V100000, Feb 23, 2015
• StructureRecall number 14V310000, Jun 10, 2014
• Exterior lightingRecall number 13V113000, Apr 1, 2013

Service bulletins worth asking about

Repair instructions the maker sent to dealers for known problems. Ask whether any of these repairs were done.

• Some Hyundai vehicles may be equipped with a parking distance warning (PDW) sensor(s) that may trigger...Oct 15, 2026
• The federal safety agency has issued an urgent safety advisory regarding dangerous, counterfeit...Apr 10, 2026
• The federal safety agency has identified the presence of substandard and dangerous driver’s-side airbag...Apr 10, 2026
• This bulletin provides guidelines to inspect the USB, head unit, and multi-box for common connection...Jan 16, 2020
• The Blind Spot Detection (BSD) or Blind-Spot Collision Warning (BCW) is a system that measures the speed...Nov 4, 2019
• Hyundai has announced an extended warranty for the motor driven power steering (MDPS) coupling on the...Feb 27, 2017

Before you pay

• Decode the VIN and make sure it matches the title, the registration and the car itself.
• Get a vehicle history report to check for accidents, salvage or flood titles and odometer problems.
• Ask for service records, especially oil changes and any transmission fluid service.
• Start the car from cold, and drive it at city and highway speeds for at least 20 minutes.
• Have an independent mechanic inspect the car before you sign anything.