2013 Hyundai Elantra engine problems

Filed Jun 10, 2026 · Engine · MA

I was wondering if you can help me. I have a Hyundai Elantra that had a recall for my engine to get fixed by the dealership. I’ve never got it fixed because I was unaware of a Hyundai letter that i just found on the internet that was issued by them but I never received it. I went to a mechanic the other day and he informed me that they had a recall for my engine. The problem is now that Hyundai gave a date that expired on the recall. I was wondering if you can send them a demand letter or something because I was never contacted about this. I also had a brain tumor operation and Hyundai should grant me with a medical exemption. Here’s the Hyundai notice that they never gave me,

Filed Apr 9, 2026 · Electrical, Engine · MP · fire

My mother's vehicle caught fire while in park and it’s listed under a fire-risk recall. Another car got damage with the fire. I want to open a claim.

Filed Apr 6, 2026 · Engine · MA

My vehicle has a piston slap ticking issue and Hyundai will not help me fix this because it’s a common issue by Hyundai.

Filed Apr 6, 2026 · Engine, Fuel system · ND

A significant engine failure occurred while driving, presenting as loud knocking from the engine. The issue developed without prior warning lights or messages. The vehicle was inspected by a dealership and the problem was confirmed as internal engine failure (piston slap/engine knock). The dealership recommended full engine replacement. The engine is available for inspection upon request. There was no evidence of sludge or lack of maintenance noted during inspection. The most recent oil change had been performed less than 1,000 miles prior to the failure, indicating the issue was not caused by lack of maintenance. This condition creates a safety concern due to the potential for sudden engine failure, loss of power, or engine seizure while driving, which could increase the risk of an accident, especially at highway speeds. The issue has been confirmed by a dealership and has not been repaired due to cost.

Filed Mar 25, 2026 · Engine · VA

While driving on an interstate on March 12, 2026, the engine stopped working requiring that the car be pulled over to the side of the road. There were no indications of issues as oil had been regularly changed, and the battery and tires were replaced in fall of 2025. The check engine and oil lights all flashed at the time of the incident, not before. Fortunately, we were able to pull over to the side of the highway, and a tow truck brought the car to a service center. The initial diagnosis was that the seal on the crankcase failed. The service center, and now the Hyundai dealer, do not know the cause of this catastrophic damage that may result in the need for a full engine replacement.

Filed Feb 24, 2026 · Engine · WV

The vehicle has developed a pronounced knocking noise that was diagnosed by your authorized dealership as “piston slap.” I was informed by dealership staff that this is a known issue with this vehicle. However, because the vehicle is outside of warranty by time and mileage, I was told no repair assistance would be provided. My primary concern is safety. While there are currently no warning lamps illuminated, the engine is producing a consistent knocking noise. If this condition progresses to piston or engine failure while the vehicle is in operation, it could cause sudden loss of power or engine seizure. Such a failure at highway speeds or in traffic could create a serious accident risk to myself and others. Additionally, I was charged one hour of diagnostic labor, despite the dealership immediately recognizing the noise as piston slap without needing further testing. This raises concern that: The issue is well-known, The condition was identifiable without extensive diagnosis, Yet I was still billed for a full diagnostic hour. Given that this is acknowledged as a known issue, I am requesting: A formal review of this case by your product safety and quality department. Clarification on whether this condition has been the subject of technical service bulletins, extended coverage programs, or internal advisories. Consideration of goodwill repair assistance due to the potential safety implications. Reimbursement of the diagnostic charge, as no true diagnostic procedure appears to have been required. Written confirmation that continued operation of the vehicle in its current condition does not present a safety risk. I am prepared to provide service records, invoices, and any additional documentation needed. Given the potential safety implications, I respectfully request a response within 48 hours. I am hopeful the manufacturer will stand behind the safety and reliability of its product and address this matter promptly.

Filed Feb 15, 2026 · Engine · MA

A system in the Engine that allows for oil to sit and burn. UNKOWN A Mechanic shop that I go to regularly stated that this has been a known issue that has been going on for the past 12 years. Along side when I bought the car I was told that the engine is usually louder then most cars, this has been the general consensus. Personally with my car no, having done research outside of just my car: UNKNOWN there were no warning lamps, messages, or other symptoms of the problem. I was first told about this issue during the 2nd week of February of 2026, With the oil change paperwork of when I found out about the issue

Filed Feb 3, 2026 · Brakes, Electrical · MA

[XXX] is subject to Safety Recall 20V‑755 Hyundai Recall 251 for a defective ABS module that may leak brake fluid, cause an electrical short, and increase the risk of an engine compartment fire. The recall remains open and has not been performed. On Feb 2, I brought the vehicle to McGovern Hyundai of Arlington and disclosed an active brake fluid leak consistent with Recall 251. I also stated that brakes were recently replaced 4 weeks ago. The service advisor incorrectly said the recall was just for a fuse and unrelated to brake fluid. The dealership drove the car for a state inspection despite knowing about the leak and open recall. They stated the brakes are bad and requested payment for a diagnostic, which I declined. No diagnostic testing was performed. The dealership informed me the required ABS module part was unavailable and instructed me to return Friday, waiting 3 5 business days. The recall repair was not completed, and no towing or alternate transportation was offered. The dealership invoice documents the incomplete repair. I live in East Boston, MA, a densely populated urban area with street parking. If the defect causes a fire, it could endanger nearby vehicles, residences, and public safety. I am filing this complaint to document the unprepared safety defect, dealership misinformation, and ongoing community fire risk. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Filed Dec 3, 2025 · Electrical, Engine · AZ

Vehicle Issue Description for the federal safety agency Complaint: Component/System Failure: The engine of my 2013 Hyundai Elantra (VIN: [insert VIN]) completely failed at 51,000 miles. The alternator also failed and had to be replaced. There was a persistent smell of gasoline inside and outside the vehicle, creating a fire hazard. All components are available for inspection upon request. Safety Risk: The engine failure left the vehicle completely inoperable. The gas smell created a serious fire hazard and caused me to experience health issues, requiring an ER visit. The combination of engine malfunction, electrical issues, and fuel leaks posed a risk to my safety and the safety of others while driving. Confirmation by Dealer / Mechanic: Independent mechanics inspected the vehicle and confirmed the engine failure and alternator issues. Multiple mechanics advised not to drive the car due to the fire hazard. The original selling dealer (Larry H. Miller Toyota) inspected the car and acknowledged engine problems in writing on a business card. Inspection by Manufacturer / Others: Hyundai corporate has been notified, but they declined warranty coverage as the vehicle is a second-owner car and beyond the original warranty. The dealer has also been made aware of the engine failure. Warning Lamps / Symptoms: No warning lamps indicated imminent engine failure prior to the engine dying. The first symptoms were mechanical issues, gas smell, and eventual total engine failure. Alternator failure and repeated maintenance issues occurred within 8 months of purchase. Additional Notes: Vehicle purchased at 34,000 miles; engine failed at 51,000 miles. Independent repair receipts, ER paperwork, are available to support the case.

Filed Nov 29, 2025 · Engine · NY

I was driving and my car just shut down. Thank goodness I was only in a drive thru because my car was still in gear. I got it restarted and it was making a terrible noise. I took it to hyandai where they told me that I had a piston slap. Hyandai corporate knows that this is a problem. I am lucky to have not been on the highway it could have caused serious injury or death to me or anyone around me. Hyandai corporate should replace the engine that they know is bad or if someone has had it replaced they should be reimbursing. Them. It's dangerous the 1.8l 4-cylinder nu engine.