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2009 Hyundai Elantra problems

The most common problem on the 2009 Hyundai Elantra is steering, typically around 79,384 miles. Its complaint count is close to a typical Elantra model year.

Typical yearClose to a typical year
Year score
73/100
Owner complaints
255
Recalls
4
Service bulletins
47
Worst area
Steering
Fuel economy
27-28mpg
Typical repair
$2,312

The worst 2009 Hyundai Elantra problems

Ranked by number of owner complaints. Mileage and cost come from what owners wrote.

Problems by type

Tap a problem to see which part fails, at what mileage and in which other years.

Specific symptoms reported on the 2009 Hyundai Elantra

Power steering loss 47Airbag light 21Loss of power 16ABS 14Fire or smoke 13Steering lock-up 12Steering noise 10No deployment 9Engine failure 8

Trouble codes owners of the 2009 Hyundai Elantra mention

C1290 2

Recalls 4

Service brakes, hydraulic: antilock/traction control/electronic limited slip: control unit/moduleReported February 4, 2020 · 476,111 vehicles affected
What is wrong
Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2007-2010 Elantra and 2009-2011 Elantra Touring vehicles. On February 21, 2020 Hyundai expanded the recall to include 46,425 model year 2007-2008 Entourage and 2007 Santa Fe vehicles. Moisture may enter the Anti-lock Brake (ABS) Module and result in an electrical short.
Risk
An electrical short within the ABS Module may cause an engine compartment fire, even when the car is turned off, increasing the risk of an injury.
Remedy
Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will install a relay in the vehicle's main junction box to prevent the risk of an ABS short-circuit while the car is turned off, free of charge. The recall began April 2, 2020. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1‑855‑371‑9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 188.

Recall number 20V061000 · Recall details

Steering: electric power assist systemReported February 23, 2015 · 204,768 vehicles affected
What is wrong
Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain model year 2008-2010 Elantra vehicles manufactured June 1, 2008, to April 30, 2010, and 2009-2010 Elantra Touring vehicles manufactured November 1, 2008, to April 30, 2010. The electronic power steering (EPS) electronic control unit (ECU) may sense a discrepancy in the steering input signals and, as a result, disable the steering power assist.
Risk
If power steering assist is lost, greater driver effort would be required to steer the vehicle at low speeds, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Hyundai will verify the proper operation of the Electronic Power Steering (EPS) and update the EPS control unit, free of charge. The recall began April 14, 2015. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1‑855‑671‑3059. Hyundai's number for this recall is 127.

Recall number 15V100000 · Recall details

Exterior lighting: brake lights: switchReported April 1, 2013 · 1,712,336 vehicles affected
What is wrong
Hyundai Motor Company (Hyundai) is recalling certain model year 2006-2009 Accent, model year 2007-2011 Azera, Sonata and Sante Fe,2006-2011 Tucson, 2009-2011 Elantra Touring, 2007-2010 Elantra, 2008-2011 Veracruz, 2009-2011 Genesis, 2010-2011 Genesis Coupe, 2007-2008 Entourage, and 2006-2008 Tiburon vehicles. Originally, in April 2013, Hyundai recalled 1,059,824 model year 2007-2009 Accent and Tucson, model year 2007-2010 Elantra, model year 2007-2011 Santa Fe, model year 2008-2009 Veracruz, model year 2010-2011 Genesis Coupe, and model year 2011 Sonata vehicles. In September 2013, Hyundai informed the agency that it was adding more vehicles to this campaign, representing an additional 652,512 units. The total number of vehicles being recalled is now 1,712,336. In the affected vehicles, the stop lamp switch may malfunction. A malfunctioning stop lamp switch may cause the brake lights to not illuminate when the brake pedal is depressed or may cause an inability to deactivate the cruise control by depressing the brake pedal. Additionally, a malfunctioning stop lamp switch may also result in intermittent operation of the push-button start feature, affect the operation of the brake transmission shift interlock feature, preventing the shifter from being moved out of the PARK position and cause the Electronic Stability Control (ESC) malfunction light to illuminate.
Risk
Failure to illuminate the stop lamps during braking or inability to disengage the cruise control could increase the risk of a crash. Additionally, when the ignition is in the 'ON' position, the transmission shifter may be able to be moved out of Park without first applying the brake. This may lead to unintentional movement of the car which may increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will replace the stop lamp switch, free of charge. The safety recall began on April 22, 2013. Owners may contact Hyundai at 1‑800‑633‑5151. Hyundai's recall campaign number is 110.

Recall number 13V113000 · Recall details

Air bags: frontal: sensor/control module-inactiveReported March 15, 2011 · 188,697 vehicles affected
What is wrong
Hyundai is recalling certain model year 2007-2009 elantra vehicles manufactured from july 14, 2006, through november 1, 2008. The front passenger seats in the vehicles contain a weight sensor designed to deactivate the right frontal airbag when occupants of certain weights occupy the seat. The electrical connector for the weight sensor is located under the center console, between the front seats. Under certain circumstances the connector could become contaminated and malfunction such that the front passenger airbag will deploy regardless of the weight of the occupant.
Risk
The front passenger air bag could deploy in crashes in which it should not deploy, increasing the risk of injury to the seat occupant from the deployed air bag.
Remedy
Dealers will install a protective cover over the weight classification system connector to prevent contamination. This service will be performed free of charge. The safety recall is expecting to begin during april 2011. Owners may contact hyundai's customer assistance center at 1‑800‑633‑5151.

Recall number 11V143000 · Recall details

See all 4 recalls for the 2009 Hyundai Elantra

Defect investigations

Throttle control system vulnerabilitiesOpened November 12, 2021, closed June 20, 2023

The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) of the federal safety agency received a petition letter dated October 10, 2021, requesting an investigation of possible defects in the electronic throttle control (ETC) system on certain Kia vehicles resulting in the opening of DP21-003. Accordingly, Model Year (MY) 2005-2016 Kia Optima/K5, MY 2006-2015 Kia Sorento, MY 2007-2016 Hyundai Elantra, MY 2007-2016 Hyundai Santa Fe, MY 2006-2015 Hyundai Sonatas are all part of the subject population. The petition was originally filed as a Vehicle Owner Questionnaire that can be reviewed at under reference (ODI) number 11439675.On November 12, 2021, ODI opened Defect Petition DP21-003 to evaluate the petitioner?s request. ODI performed trend analyses of the VOQs related to vehicle speed control issues for all the subject vehicles and found that none of the 52 Model/Model Year Hyundai/Kia vehicles demonstrated any actionable trend that warranted an investigation.Petitioners submitted 1119 VOQs and non-VOQ cases in which sudden uncommanded acceleration (SUA) or loss of motive power (LOMP) incidents were alleged.For the 1119 reports, 220 were incidents involving crashes, from which 69 subject Hyundai-Kia vehicles were inspected by Hyundai/Kia dealer technicians, Hyundai/Kia engineers, and/or third-party representatives.ODI found the inspections identified no vehicle defects related to the ETC system.Of the 220 crash-involved reports, 13 Event Data Recorder (EDR) records were downloaded successfully and 11 of those indicated driver error: (i.e.) pedal misapplication.A condition where the accelerator pedal is mistakenly applied instead of the brake pedal when the driver wants to stop the vehicle.In addition, ODI reviewed a scientific journal paper published in Forensic Science International in 2016 by Mr. Park et al ., as well as related test videos. ODI does not believe there is any evidence of uncontrollable SUA occurrences in any of the tests reviewed. the federal safety agency's Office of Vehicle Safety Compliance (OVSC) reviewed the allegations regarding the potential noncompliance with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 124.Based on the information provided, the Agency concludes there is insufficient information for us to determine if a possible non-compliance exists.Finally, both Hyundai and Kia informed ODI that all their vehicles manufactured after 2012 were equipped with an ETC management system, in which the engine speed will go to idle when the system sees signals from both the brake pedal and accelerator pedal at the same time; this is commonly known as the brake-throttle override system.After thoroughly assessing the material submitted by the petitioner, information already in the federal safety agency's possession, information submitted by Hyundai and Kia in response to an Information Request letter, and the potential risks to safety implicated by the petitioner's allegation, the federal safety agency does not believe that a formal investigation is warranted. After full consideration of appropriate factors, the petition is denied. A Federal Register Notice (FRN) further detailing the federal safety agency?s reasons for denial of the petition will be published.

DP21003

Technical service bulletins for the 2009 Hyundai Elantra 47

Bulletins tell dealers how to fix known problems. A warranty extension means the manufacturer pays for that repair for longer.

See all 47 bulletins for the 2009 Hyundai Elantra

2009 Hyundai Elantra fuel economy

Official EPA estimates in miles per gallon (MPGe for electric). Ranges cover trims that share the same engine.

EngineDriveCityHighwayCombined
2.0L 4‑cylFWD24-253327-28

What 2009 Hyundai Elantra owners say

Most recent owner complaints, unedited.

Filed Oct 30, 2026 · Steering · 209,000 miles · NJ

The contact owns a 2009 Hyundai Elantra. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked and stationary, the vehicle was started and the steering wheel was very stiff. The contact originally thought that the issue was battery related; however, replacing the battery failed to resolve the issue. Due to the failure, the EPS and TPMS warning lights illuminated. The contact received notification of the federal safety agency Campaign Number: 15V100000 (Steering); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue and stated that the part was not available. The local dealer was contacted but was unable to receive the part. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The failure mileage was 209,000.

Filed Sep 30, 2026 · Brakes · CA

The Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) module has failed due to moisture intrusion that caused an internal electrical short circuit, destroying the ABS Primary Pressure Sensor. A few days after the vehicle was parked outside during heavy rain, I was driving on a busy highway when it suddenly lost engine power. During this emergency, I had to perform heavy braking and maneuver to the shoulder without engine assist. At the same time, the ABS and Electronic Stability Control (ESC) systems suddenly disabled completely. This failure is consistent with the safety defect described in the federal safety agency Campaign 20V‑061 (Recall 188), which acknowledges that these ABS modules can permit moisture intrusion. However, Hyundai's remedy, installing a fuse relay, only cuts battery power while the vehicle is parked to reduce fire risk; it does not seal or repair the ABS module. Moisture from the heavy rain entered the module while the vehicle was parked and ultimately shorted the internal pressure sensor while driving, disabling critical braking and stability systems. Two independent third-party sources (an ASE-certified mechanic and a commercial automotive diagnostic scanner) identified codes C1237 (ABS Primary Pressure Sensor Signal), C1513, and C1260. Both confirmed an internal electrical failure of the ABS module. At Hyundai Corporate Consumer Affairs’ direction, the vehicle was inspected by an authorized Hyundai dealership. The dealership did not perform the required dynamic road test needed to reproduce the active ABS faults, and claimed there was only C1260 and not an ABS malfunction. The invoice documents identical mileage in and out, and video shows diagnostics performed while the vehicle was stationary with the engine off. Approximately 15 minutes later, an independent scanner successfully retrieved C1237, C1513, and C1260. Despite this evidence, Hyundai Consumer Affairs refused to repair the failed ABS module, characterizing it as a “maintenance item.”

Filed Sep 22, 2026 · Steering · 46,000 miles · OH

The contact owns a 2009 Hyundai Elantra. The contact stated that while driving 55 MPH on the highway, the vehicle lost power steering assist. The power steering assist warning light was illuminated during the failure. The contact pulled over to the side of the road, turned off and restarted the vehicle; however, the failure persisted. The contact was able to continue driving, although the steering wheel was difficult to turn. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic; however, the cause of the failure could not be determined; however, the mechanic associated the failure with the federal safety agency Campaign Number: 15V100000 (Steering) and referred the contact to the manufacturer for assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 46,000.

Filed Sep 3, 2026 · Steering · MA

I am reporting Hyundai’s failure to complete open Campaign 127/the federal safety agency Recall 15V‑100 on my 2009 Hyundai Elantra. I acquired the vehicle from a family member in late July 2026 after the previous owner died and the vehicle was delayed in probate. I sought recall service immediately after legal transfer. Component/system: The Electronic Power Steering (EPS) failed. Power steering assist is completely unavailable. The EPS warning lamp is illuminated and the EPS module reports DTC C1604. The vehicle and EPS system remain at [XXX] Hyundai in [XXX] and are available for inspection upon request. Safety risk: The vehicle was driven from [XXX] to [XXX] during transportation during its transfer to me, and the power steering failed en route. Loss of steering assist substantially increased steering effort suddenly& created a safety risk to the driver, passengers and other motorists. Dealer confirmation: Yes. The condition is recognized by [XXX] Hyundai. I presented the vehicle on XXX specifically for the open EPS recall, and it has remained there since. This is the second area Hyundai dealer that attempted to decline recall service. [XXX] states it cannot perform the prescribed software update because the required Hyundai tablet/programming equipment is no longer available. The dealer has also pressured me to retrieve the unrepaired vehicle and attempted to charge for diagnostics. Other inspections: Hyundai Consumer Affairs is involved under case #XXX. No police or insurance representative has inspected the vehicle. Hyundai’s latest update is that it is attempting to source either the required computer or part, but no remedy or completion date has been provided. Warnings/symptoms: When the EPS failed, the EPS warning lamp illuminated and steering assist was lost. OBD-II/EPS diagnostics subsequently identified C1604. The vehicle has been continuously available for recall repair since XXX. Thank you for your review & assistance with this. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Filed Aug 29, 2026 · Steering · WV

Power steering assist motor stopped working, leaving the car with hard manual steering. Dealer inspection confirms the issue across several year models, inclding my 2009. There were 2 other year models with the same issue in their shop with mine that day. One was 2018. One was a 2023. Car is very difficult to steer around curves at any speed. Warning lamp on dash says "EPS".

Filed Aug 4, 2026 · Driver assistance · KY · fire

My ABS system started smoking while the vehicle was in the off position. Police and fire department showed up. Police report number is 2026151090. I was called outside from the establishment and the emergency services were waiting on me. Corporate is now trying to get me to pay the tow out of pocket. I called the NTSHA holiness but was unable to mention this issue about the towing. Also corporate has stated they will likely not service the vehicle.

Filed Aug 4, 2026 · Brakes · 168,000 miles · KY

The contact owns a 2009 Hyundai Elantra. The contact received notification of the federal safety agency Campaign Number: 20V061000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic). The contact stated that while driving approximately 35 MPH, the TPMS and powertrain warning lights illuminated, but the vehicle drove normally. The contact stated that a month later, while the vehicle was parked and turned off, a pedestrian saw smoke coming from the engine compartment. The contact arrived at the scene, and the Police and Fire Department were already on scene. The contact stated that a fireman entered the vehicle and opened the hood, and disconnected the battery. A Police report was filed. The contact inspected the vehicle, reconnected the battery, and there was smoke coming from the ABS module inside the engine compartment. The contact then disconnected the battery. The battery was later reconnected, and the vehicle was driven to the residence. The contact arrived at the residence and removed the ABS fuse, and the smoke ceased. The vehicle was taken to an auto shop where a handheld diagnostic machine retrieved DTC: P0441 (EVAP system incorrect purge flow). The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 168,000.

Filed Jul 28, 2026 · Steering · 118,000 miles · IL

The contact owns a 2009 Hyundai Elantra. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the steering wheel failed to turn in the intended direction. The EPS warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. In addition, the contact stated that an unknown recall with a similar description of the failure was completed in 2023. The contact stated that the failure reoccurred. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure, and a case was filed. The failure mileage was approximately 118,000.

Filed Mar 31, 2026 · Steering · AL

Vehicle has a major problem steering down the road as I am traveling, its also makes loud clicks while turning left or right, also if freezing up and getting stiff along the way, The item that's causing this problem is call EPS , my light will not go out on its own, My local dealership will not honor the warranty or the recall stated it was repair ed I am the 2 or 3 owner of said vehicle, I can see where it show data update March 30 2026 , , It was never fix and Bentley Hyundai in Huntsville Alabama, will not honor this recall for my vehicle,

Filed Mar 19, 2026 · Brakes, Electrical · NJ

the federal safety agency 20V‑061 (Hyundai 188): ABS/HECU Module the federal safety agency 15V‑100 (Hyundai 127): Electric Power Steering (EPS) the federal safety agency 13V‑113 (Hyundai 110): Brake Light Switch

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Compare the 2009 Hyundai Elantra

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Other model years

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Questions about the 2009 Hyundai Elantra

Is the 2009 Hyundai Elantra reliable?

Owners have filed 255 complaints about the 2009 Hyundai Elantra, close to a typical Elantra model year.

What is the 2009 Hyundai Elantra year score?

The 2009 Hyundai Elantra scores 73 out of 100 (average). The score compares it with the other model years of the Hyundai Elantra: 75 is a typical year, 50 means twice the usual complaints, and serious complaints and recalls lower it.

What is the most common problem with the 2009 Hyundai Elantra?

Steering, with 134 complaints, typically around 79,384 miles. Next is airbags (42).

How many recalls does the 2009 Hyundai Elantra have?

4 recalls, covering service brakes, hydraulic, steering and exterior lighting.

Was there a recall on the 2009 Hyundai Elantra steering?

Yes, 1 recall: 15V100000. Check your VIN to see if your car still needs the free repair.

What year does the Hyundai Elantra have bad steering?

The Hyundai Elantra model years with the most steering complaints are 2013 (272 complaints), 2010 (195 complaints) and 2009 (134 complaints).

What gas mileage does the 2009 Hyundai Elantra get?

Official estimates for the 2009 Hyundai Elantra range from 27 to 28 mpg combined. The most efficient version (2.0L 4-cyl, FWD) gets 24-25 city and 33 highway.

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