2013 Hyundai Elantra fuel system problems

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 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 Apr 23, 2024 · Electrical, Engine · VA

My engine will not turn over 70% of the time. My radio switches on and off on its on and changes stations randomly. Even with new brakes, it sounds like they are constantly grinding. When my gas gets low the issue gets worse to the point i can't arm my car. I have a small child and my car started smoking. I was also stranded for almost an hour because my car would not start. I just got off the phone with pearson hyundai and they told me there is no remedy for this issue and just wait. This issue started mid last year when my engine started to shake at a stop light. I have had 3 mechanics look at my car and they won't touch the issue due to the recall.

Filed Apr 1, 2024 · Brakes, Driver assistance · NJ

- Brake and fuel leak smell - yes - yes - no - no

Filed Nov 12, 2022 · Electrical, Engine · RI

My car tends to shut off on its own while driving. I’ve fixed the fuel pump thinking that can be the issue due to the car passing “green” on the machine stating everything is good. No lights on my dashboard, engine tends to shake. RPM arrow is all over the place. The car is well taken care of. I’m spending a lot of money on mechanics fixing things that clearly aren’t the issue with the vehicle.

Filed Aug 30, 2022 · Fuel system · GA

The vehicle developed a fuel line leak (diagnosed by ASE certified technician). The problem was first noticed when the odor of fuel filled the cabin. This may or may not be similar to the same issue arising in 2013 Sonata models for which a recall was issued. I have tried to locate a replacement part (Hyundai part# 31310-3X400) but am informed that these are on "indefinite backorder" or "discontinued" rendering the otherwise serviceable vehicle unsafe to operate

Filed May 13, 2022 · Fuel system · GA

The steering wheel is loose. It rattles when I drive especially when I drive over rough areas like train track, pot hole or something like that. I can tell it is very loose when I am making turns. There is also issue with fuel smell inside my car. I frequently smell gas. To the point where I have to let the window down to let air in. The gas fumes are strong. The gas issue has been a problem for 2-3 years.

Filed Dec 28, 2021 · Fuel system · 25,000 miles · TX

The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Elantra. He stated that while driving at various speeds, he would intermittently smell a strong gasoline odor emitting from the vehicle. The contact had taken the vehicle to several dealers and each dealer informed him that there were no failures with his vehicle. The manufacturer had yet to be notified of the failure. The vehicle had yet to be diagnosed or repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 25,000.

Filed Jun 29, 2021 · Electrical, Fuel system · GA · fire

After the completion of my work shift, I return to my vehicle and discovered a fire has taken place. Lucky, the fire didn't get out of control and wasn't active at the time. The passenger seat was completely burnt including the seat covers and the items in the seat. The items in the seat included: Steak & shake leftover trash, and a perfume bottle. This fire also damaged a door dash bag that I had in the back passenger seat. Not to mention, the impact of the fire that created black duct all over the vehicle windshields, radio, seats, dashboard etc... No police report, nor fire report has been reported at this given time.

Filed Nov 23, 2020 · Electrical, Engine · 75,000 miles · NH · fire

My 2013 hyundai elantra with approx. 75,000 miles, and no mechanical or cosmetic issues, caught fire while parked and turned off for 10 minutes at tavern in the square restaurant in lowell, ma. Patrons who were parked nearby heard what sounded like electrical sparks and then witnessed smoke coming from the hood which then burst into flames. They ran in to retrieve my family and I and the fire department came within 10 minutes to extinguish the flames but the car was completely destroyed by that time. I have videos and pictures that can be forwarded to you. I have attempted to contact hyundai customer service but was on hold for 40 minutes and immediately disconnected before speaking to anyone. This has been extremely stressful emotionally and financially. The car was in our garage just 30 minutes prior and this could have been much worse. There is obviously a history of issues with some other hyundai vehicles which I wasn't aware of until now but I don't see that my car was listed as a possible recall for electrical fires. It was my only mode of transportation and every penny I earned was used to purchase this vehicle less than one year ago. I do not have insurance that would cover this situation so this is a total loss. Please let me know how to proceed and also where to forward the video and photo details.