With its quirky design, high efficiency, and impressive feature list, the 2013 Hyundai Veloster is one of the most distinctive options available in the segment. It is versatile in its build and with a large trunk, it promises adequate practicality to the buyers. In the current iteration, it also benefits from the inclusion of a Turbo model, which delivers better than the base variant and adds the much-required oomph to the overall performance. Though the safety ratings of the hatchback are not known, a lengthy warranty and constricted user grievances list ensure that the Korean vehicle resonates with reliability. It has 305 complaints listed to its name and in the current iteration, it has only been recalled once. The problems that the vehicle faces range from its mechanical components to its electrical system and structural build. A 2013 Hyundai Veloster for sale starts at $17,600 and in its segment, it competes with the likes of the Scion tC, the Mini Cooper, and the Honda CR-Z.
2013 Hyundai Veloster User Complaints and Problems
Safety Complaints
- Issues with the airbags: In the current iteration, buyers of the 2013 Veloster have reportedtwo distinct issues with the airbag system. The first problem is concerned with the non-deployment of airbags in case of a crash, which has resulted in injuries to the occupants. In some other cases, users have also noticed the passenger airbag warning light illuminating inadvertently. This happens due to a failed clock spring, which interferes with the airbag module and renders the steering controls and horn inoperable.
Electric System Complaints
- Wiring issues in the climate control unit: In the 2013 Hyundai Veloster common problems list, buyers of the hatchback reported the HVAC unit’s wiring burning and melting. As a result, the air conditioning unit of the vehicle cannot be controlled, which is followed by the air vents failing to blow air. Additionally, a burning smell persists inside the cabin and the burning can be considered a consequence of the increased load on the system.
Structural Complaints
- Explosion of sunroof: The Veloster sunroof problems are the most highly recurring issues in the current iteration.Without any impact or incidence, buyers have reported the sunroof exploding, which happens irrespective of the vehicle being in motion or at a halt. Such malfunction has resulted in minor injuries to the occupants and is a grave safety concern. While the problem is highly common. Hyundai should aim at introducing a bonafide solution to the problem.
Mechanical Complaints
- Issues with the transmission unit: The 2013 Hyundai Veloster transmission problems are concerned with its DCT unit. In several cases, buyers have reported the transmission slipping and failing to engage in gear, which results in erratic performance. In some other cases, complainants have also recorded the DCT unit shuddering excessively when starting from a stop, which results in a delay in acceleration.
- Failure of catalytic converter: In the 2013 Hyundai Veloster issues list, buyers have recorded the engine losing power and stalling unexpectedly. The vehicle makes a knocking sound, which is caused by the failure of the catalytic converter, which requires replacement. It also affects the spark plugs, and in some cases, even the replacement of the mechanical components has not worked correctly.
- Sticking brakes: In several complaints made on official and unofficial platforms, complainants have reported the brake calipers getting stuck unexpectedly. As a result, the wheels do not turn and the brakes cannot be applied properly. In a few instances, the failure has also resulted in the vehicle swerving in the direction of the faulty brake unit.
- Clunking steering noise: Due to a damaged coupler in the Motor-Driven Power Steering (MDPS) assembly, buyers have reported the steering wheel making a clunking noise at particular turning angles. In some cases, it has also resulted in the steering system locking up, which affects overall drivability. While the problem is highly common across the Hyundai Elantra and Hyundai Sonata models as well, the Hyundai Veloster steering coupler recall has not yet been introduced, unlike the other mentioned models.
- Premature engine failure: The 2013 Veloster engine problems are related to its premature failure. Due to excessive oil consumption or mixing of air and fuel, buyers have reported the vehicle seizing and the engine failing to operate. While there is no solution for the problem of oil consumption, a recall is available, referenced by NHTSA ID 19V20400, for the latter. In some cases, the failure of the engine has also been facilitated by the unit’s overheating, which has resulted in a fire in a handful of cases.
2013 Hyundai Veloster Recalls
|
S. No |
Date |
NHTSA ID |
Issues Noticed |
Additional Remarks |
Remedy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
1. |
14th Mar 2019 |
19V204000 |
Possible engine damage |
In vehicles equipped with the 1.6L turbocharged engines, the engine management software may cause premature ignition of the air/fuel mixture, which can create excessive pressure in the cylinder and may damage the engine. |
Dealers will update the engine management software, free of cost. |
Should you buy the 2013 Hyundai Veloster?
The Hyundai Veloster has been regarded as a vehicle for the young. Its distinctive design, quirky door setup, and impressive capabilities set it apart from its direct adversaries. Even its reliability is uncompromised and for a vehicle that sells well over 30,000 units, the complaints list seems restricted. Additionally, a single recall ensures that most complaints do not have a widespread impact and can be easily treated. So, we feel that the 2013 Veloster is a dependable proposition that can be easily trusted. However, before finalizing a buying decision we recommend buyers test drive the vehicle to be confident about its ride quality and overall interior space.
