The compact sedan class in itself is highly celebrated. It hosts the most popular options available in the market and is a dignified choice for first-time buyers. Among these, the 2013 Hyundai Elantra promises to be a class leader. Though it continues without any significant changes, the Korean vehicle continues to cement its position with its potent feature set, impressive exterior design, and clever interior setup. Even its five-star safety rating from the NHTSA and comprehensive warranty package allow it to gain ascendancy.
However, the 2013 Hyundai Elantra problems are not something that everyone can deal with. The 2013 Hyundai Elantra recalls account number four, and there are 1104 complaints against it. Also, out of the four investigations, two related to fire hazards are still open. So, at a starting price of just under $17,000, can the compact option compete against seasoned rivals like the Kia Forte, the Chevrolet Cruze, and the Ford Focus?
2013 Hyundai Elantra Common Problems and User Complaints
Safety Complaints
- Illumination of airbag warning light: In the Hyundai Elantra common problems list, buyers of the compact sedan have reported the airbag warning light illuminating randomly. In most cases, a failed clock spring is found to be the underlying reason. It disables the airbag, hampering its deployment, and can also affect the steering controls and horn. Currently, there is no recall for the issue, despite its widespread impact.
- Non-deployment of airbags: In the current iteration, buyers of the 2013 Elantra have also reported the failure of the sedan’s airbags to deploy in case of a crash. As a result, occupants have complained about injuries that require medical attention.
Electric System Complaints
- Exterior lighting issues: In several cases noted in the 2013 Elantra, buyers of the sedan have reported the head- and taillights blowing out constantly. They lose power and become inoperable, which warrants a replacement. While the reason for the failure of the headlights is not known, the taillights deliver substandard performances as they remain illuminated because of a damaged brake pedal stopper pad, which causes the brake lights to remain illuminated at all times.
- Explosion of sunroof: In several known cases, buyers have reported the sunroof exploding inadvertently. The glass pane shatters, making a loud banging noise. While no reasons for the problem are yet known, the replacement of the sunroof is the only available solution. Additionally, owners of several other models from the brand have also reported a similar issue.
Mechanical Complaints
- Engine failure: The 2013 Hyundai Elantra engine problems are widespread. In several cases, buyers have reported a ticking sound from the engine compartment, which is followed by the vehicle losing power and coming to a halt. It cannot be cranked and where a diagnosis has been conducted, the failure of the engine and consequent ceasing of operations has been determined as the underlying cause.
- Problems with the transmission system: The 2013 Hyundai Elantra transmission problems are bi-fold. The first problem is concerned with the transmission unit slipping and occasionally, finding it difficult to engage in gears. This causes the vehicle to deliver an erratic performance since the transmission fails to work in tandem with speed requirements. On the other hand, several other users have also recorded the failure of the transmission unit to shift back to “Park”. As a result, it can lead to the vehicle rolling away unexpectedly.
- Substandard braking system: In the 2013 Hyundai Elantra problems list, buyers have reported the substandard performance of the braking unit. In many cases, complainants have recorded the failure of the brakes to bring the vehicle to a halt, despite the brake pedal being depressed. This increases the chance of a crash and can happen due to the warped rotors or damaged brake pads. On the other hand, some users have also reported the brake light illuminating despite the pedal being released.There are currently two recalls introduced by Hyundai that are dealing with the issue.
- Improper performance over uneven surfaces: Buyers of the 2013 Hyundai Elantra have also reported the vehicle fishtailing over uneven surfaces. When traveling on untoward surfaces, the suspension system becomes unstable, which makes it difficult to control the vehicle. The midsize sedan almost glides and the failure elevates over speeds of 40 MPH.
- Failure of the steering coupler: The 2013 Elantra steering coupler problem is a grave concern. In several cases, buyers have reported the coupler inside the steering system damaging, which causes it to make a clunking when the vehicle is being turned. While no reason for the problem is yet known, the brand’s service bulletin recommends the replacement of the severed part as the only solution. Additionally, even the Hyundai Velosterand the Hyundai Sonatasuffer from a similar problem.
- Problems with the tires: In a shockingly high number of cases, buyers of the 2013 Hyundai Elantra have also reported the tires failing at low mileage levels. While the most common issue is the development of bubbles in the sidewall, some complainants have also recorded the tires blowing out without any symptoms.
2013 Hyundai Elantra Recalls
|
S. No |
Date |
NHTSA ID |
Issues Noticed |
Additional Remarks |
Remedy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. | September 22, 2023 | 23V651000 | ABS unit may cause engine compartment fire | The Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) module may leak brake fluid internally and cause an electrical short, which can result in an engine compartment fire while parked or driving. | Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures until the recall repair is complete. Dealers will replace the ABS fuse, free of charge. Interim notification letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed November 1, 2023. |
|
2. |
30th Nov 2017 |
17V769000 |
Deterioration of brake pedal stopper pad |
Due to a deterioration of the brake pedal stopper pad, the brake light switch plunger may remain extended even when the pedal is released. As a result, the brake light may remain illuminated continuously and the shift lever may also be shifted without depressing the pedal. |
Dealers will replace the brake pedal stopper pad, free of cost. |
|
3. |
2nd Aug 2016 |
16V574000 |
Deterioration of brake pedal stopper pad |
Due to a deterioration of the brake pedal stopper pad, the brake light switch plunger may remain extended even when the pedal is released. |
Dealers will replace the brake pedal stopper pad, free of cost. |
|
4. |
1st Apr 2013 |
13V115000 |
Headline support bracket may cause injury |
During a side airbag deployment, the support bracket attached to the headliner may get displaced. |
Dealers will apply adhesive strips to the headliner, free of cost. |
Should you buy the 2013 Hyundai Elantra?
The Hyundai Elantra has faired impressively in all regards ever since it was introduced in the market. It is highly functional and proves to be a utilitarian offering that is high on cargo space, provides a capacious cabin, and finds itself performing impressively when efficiency is concerned. However, the HYundai Elantra 2013 issues put a question on its reliability. The Elantra 2013 also misses out on the J.D. Power Consumer Rating.
Though the user-grievances are extremely high at close to 1,100 registered instances, the Korean sedan’s sales volume of over 220,000 units justifies its performance. Even the 2013 Hyundai Elantra recalls are somewhat concerning. However, they do not overwhelm the buyers if taken care of as mentioned by the automaker. So, for us, the 2013 Elantra proves to be a mixed bag. However, if you feel that the number of complaints is worrisome, perhaps the 2013 Kia Forte can be a viable alternative.
So, which are the Hyundai Elantra years to avoid?
In addition to the 2013 Hyundai Elantra, we think 2011, 2012, 2014, and 2017 model years should be avoided. However, the more recent Elantra models (2020-2022) have been more reliable and can be recommended after a thorough check and history.
