2013 Hyundai Elantra
Problems, recalls and owner-reported issues
Service brakes is the leading concern among 1,330 owner complaints filed for this model year. This is the highest complaint count among 26 Elantra model years with reports.
Of the 2013 reports, 95 involved a crash and 31 involved a fire. 68 people were injured.
What owners report most often
Recalls and investigations
Service brakes, hydraulic, antilock/traction control/electronic limited slip, control unit/modulePark outsideSep 22, 2023
Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2011-2015 Elantra, Genesis Coupe, Sonata Hybrid, 2012-2015 Accent, Azera, Veloster, 2013-2015 Elantra Coupe, Santa Fe, 2014-2015 Equus, 2010-2012 Veracruz, 2010-2013 Tucson, 2015 Tucson Fuel Cell, and 2013 Santa Fe Sport vehicles. 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.
An engine compartment fire while parked or driving can increase the risk of injury.
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. Owner notification letters were mailed April 10, 2024 through October 11, 2024. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 251.
Campaign 23V651000 on NHTSA.gov
Service brakes, hydraulic, pedals and linkagesNov 30, 2017
Hyundai Motor Company (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2013-2014 Elantra sedan, coupe and GT vehicles. The brake pedal stopper pad can deteriorate allowing the brake light switch plunger to remain extended when the brake pedal is released. This will allow the brake lights to remain illuminated continuously. It can also allow the shift lever to be moved without depressing the brake pedal, or activate the engine management brake pedal override feature.
If the brake light switch plunger does not retract as it should when the brake pedal is not being pressed, the brake lights may stay illuminated preventing accurate communication to following vehicles that the vehicle is slowing or stopping. Additionally, if the brake switch plunger is not retracted, then the transmission can be shifted out of PARK without depressing the brake pedal. Either condition increases the risk of a crash.
Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will replace the brake pedal stopper pad, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin February 8, 2018. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-800-633-5151. Hyundai's number for this recall is 170. This campaign expands recall 16V574.
Campaign 17V769000 on NHTSA.gov
Exterior lighting, brake lights, switchAug 2, 2016
Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain model 2013 Elantra vehicles manufactured December 1, 2012, to April 30, 2013. The brake pedal stopper pad can deteriorate allowing the brake light switch plunger to remain extended when the brake pedal is released.
If the brake light switch plunger does not retract as it should when the brake pedal is not being pressed, the brake lights may stay illuminated preventing accurate communication to following vehicles that the vehicle is slowing or stopping. Additionally, if the brake switch plunger is not retracted, then the transmission can be shifted out of PARK without depressing the brake pedal. Either condition increases the risk of a crash.
Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will replace the brake pedal stopper pad with an improved part, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin on September 30, 2016. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 146.
Campaign 16V574000 on NHTSA.gov
Air bags, side/windowApr 1, 2013
Hyundai Motor Company is recalling certain model year 2011-2013 Elantra vehicles manufactured from November 12, 2010, through March 5, 2013. A support bracket attached to the headliner may become displaced during a side curtain airbag deployment.
If the headliner support bracket makes contact with an occupant during a crash, it may cause a laceration injury.
Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will apply adhesive strips to the headliner, free of charge. The safety recall began during April 2013. Owners may contact Hyundai at 1-800-633-5151. Hyundai's recall campaign number is 109.
Campaign 13V115000 on NHTSA.gov
Representative owner complaints: air bags
169 reports, newest first. Show all
Air bags, May 15, 2023
Air bag indicator light comes on and stays on . This occurs intermittently
Air bags, Dec 21, 2022
AIR BAG LIGHT IS ON CONSTANTLY. STARTED AS AN INTERMITTENT PROBLEM, BUT NOW IT IS ON CONSTANTLY. I AM NOT SURE IF THE AIR BAGS WILL WORK AND HAD CONFLICTING ANSWERS FROM THE LOCAL CAR DEALERSHIP. I NOTICED THERE HAVE BEEN SEVERAL COMPLAINTS ABOUT AIR BAG LIGHT.
Electrical system, Air bags, Other or unspecified, Aug 28, 2022
The airbags on the side of the driver's seat is very dangerous and can implode just by slamming the car door. I've also had an on-going issue with the break line ( lights ) the passenger side break light will not turn off, this issue is also very dangerous for myself and other drivers who do not know when I'm using the breaks due to this issue. I've brought the vehicle to Hyundai North Houston to have the break light inspected, ( that was about a week ago ) however I was told that they could not give me a loaner vehicle and the next appointment to inspect this vehicle would be as early as Aug 31,2022 and as late as September 2022. I've had technicians jump the battery several times due to this light not turning off. Many of the techs says it's the breakline and possibly a fuse that need to be changed. I also brought the vehicle to the purchase location ( Carmax/North Houston ) for inspection and service, but they did not address this as a problem during that time. The vehicle also seems to overheat more than what is normal and profusely leak water.There is also a problem with the tire sensors. The vehicle was given to me at purchase with the tire sensor lights on. I've had the sensors checked out and was informed there is no issue, now the sensor light does not illuminate even if the tire pressure is low. This vehicle has many dangerous driving components and should be investigated immediately.
Air bags, Other or unspecified, Aug 23, 2022
Airbag light comes on a few minutes after I start driving. I had my local Hyundai dealership look into and they said they didn't get any diagnostic codes and were unable to replicate the issue when test driving. The problem happens every time I drive and the fact that the airbag light is on is very worrisome and from researching this issue it seems it's rather common.
Air bags, Aug 23, 2022
Airbag light comes on and off intermittently, such as when going over a bump or turning the wheel. This is already a known issue with 2012 Hyundai Elantra clock springs and the warranty should be extended to cover 2013 as well.
Air bags, Aug 4, 2022
My airbag light comes on intermittently. Since this is a safety issue, it should be diagnosed and repaired at no cost.
Air bags, Engine, Jun 23, 2022
My air bags never work and my engine is starting to become a problem.
Electrical system, Air bags, Other or unspecified, Feb 12, 2022
TWO issues, that are, at times related: * First, intermittent airbag dash warning light enabled; comes and goes, no obvious trigger (bumps, turns, etc.). This has been occurring for two weeks. // * Second, if I stop and turn off the car while the airbag light is lit, the vehicle will remain in accessory mode, with radio and climate control still on, and the dash display says to shift the car to park (it is in park) and that the key is not in the vehicle, and when I attempt to lock the car with either key fob or door lock control, it will not lock. This has been occurring for nearly a week, first on 2/1/22 as I was attending my father's funeral. I have seen that there was a recall for the airbag issue for same year/make/model, but my car does not appear to be one of those included in the recall (searched by VIN). However, the second issue is the most critical, as I am prevented from securing the vehicle if this intermittent issue occurs. I have not taken vehicle to mechanic or dealer.
Air bags, Wheels, Feb 1, 2022
The airbag light turned on about a month ago, and it stays on for a while then goes off then goes back on and so on. It is very disturbing that this could be a life threatening issue. My tire pressure sensor light is always on. I check the pressure at least once a week to make sure it’s okay, but the light is always on.
Air bags, Dec 20, 2021
The AirBag light came on the dash. It is red , when I started the car . I guess that means the drivers side air bag Is not working.
Air bags, Nov 2, 2021, crash
The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Elantra. The contact stated that while driving at approximately 20 - 30 mph, her vehicle crashed into another vehicle's front and rear passenger doors when the other driver ran a red light. No air bags deploy upon impact. The contact and her daughter, who was a passenger sustained bruising to their knees, and the contact's head jerked forward and back from the impact. The contact received medical attention on the scene and was later admitted to the hospital, while her daughter went to urgent care. A police report was filed. The vehicle was towed to a tow yard, where it remained. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 36,000.
Exterior lighting, Air bags, Oct 28, 2021
Driver side airbag dash light goes on and off (mostly on). No accident or previous deployment of the airbag. Also, while under warranty the tail light and break light wiring was replaced as they would burn out approx. every 6 months. One light after another: tail light, break light, blinker, etc. It's happening again... seems to be a wiring or component issue. Have to keep bulbs in the car with me at all times.
Air bags, Aug 26, 2021
Airbag warning light illuminated for months and will not turn off. Every once in a while it randomly goes away but then comes back on soon after. This is a safety issue if the airbag is not functioning properly and this safety system defect needs to be recalled and fixed for free. Also, I have replaced my brake lights 3 times in the last few years but as soon as I do a different tail/brake light goes out. What seems to be an electrical issue is also a hazard and safety issue if my brake lights cannot illuminate indicating braking.
Air bags, Aug 17, 2021
The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Elantra. The contact stated while starting the vehicle, the airbag warning light illuminated. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 134,000.
Air bags, Aug 2, 2021
My airbag light on dashboard is remaining on dashboard and vehicle check in progress is reported on my radio display information when i begin to start driving my car for past several weeks i have reset light as informed but does not correct the problem. i have had steering wheel bracket replaced and never have had a problem before now. I am a single mother of two and i rely on my airbags incase of accident for me an my family. How do i resolve this issue?
Air bags, Jul 8, 2021
The airbag light on my hyundai elantra has been turning on for a couple of minutes when i start the vehicle and then will turn off. After a few more minutes it will happen again as if there is a malfunction with the airbags and the computer is trying to trouble shoot the problem but still finding an error. I would like a follow up to insure that if someone were to hit my vehicle that the airbags would deploy properly.
Air bags, Jun 30, 2021
Air bag lights has been on for quite some time. Reason: Unknown Engine light is on: Diagnose something dealing with taking on too much fuel Steering wheel: clicking every time I hit a bump or turn the wheel
Air bags, Seat belts, Jun 22, 2021
I have only had this car for three months. Two weeks ago the Air Bag light OFF kept appearing while driving. Then 3 days ago the driver side seat belt locked. It will NOT release. I have read a lot of forums from many others with the same problem from Hyundai cars. The dealership charges 500-1500$ just to fix 1 seatbelt. Its a safety problem as well as fraud.
Electrical system, Air bags, Vehicle speed control, May 12, 2021
CERTAIN STEERING WHEEL CONTROLS -- INCLUDING THE VOLUME CONTROLS AND BLUETOOTH PHONE CONTROLS -- STOPPED WORKING. A FEW MONTHS LATER, MORE STEERING WHEEL CONTROLS -- SUCH AS OTHER AUDIO AND MEDIA CONTROLS -- STOPPED WORKING. A YEAR LATER, THE ABILITY TO CHANGE THE STEERING TENSION, FROM COMFORT TO NORMAL TO SPORT, STOPPED WORKING. WITHIN THE PAST YEAR, THE CRUISE CONTROL BUTTONS ON THE STEERING WHEEL HAVE STOPPED WORKING, AND THE RED AIRBAG LIGHT IS ON CONTINUOUSLY. ALTHOUGH HYUNDAI HAS ISSUED A RECALL FOR CERTAIN 2011-2014 ELANTRA VEHICLES, AND MY VEHICLE MEETS THAT YEAR RANGE AND MODEL, THE DEALERSHIP WILL NOT COVER REPLACING THE AIRBAG CLOCK SPRING ASSEMBLY BECAUSE MY VIN DOES NOT MATCH THEIR CRITERIA. AS SUCH, THE DEALERSHIP HAS QUOTED $480 TO FIX MY VEHICLE'S AIRBAG CLOCK SPRING ASSEMBLY. IF MY VEHICLE EXPERIENCES THE SAME AIRBAG SAFETY ISSUES THAT COVERED VEHICLES HAVE EXPERIENCED AND WHICH PROMPTED THE RECALL, MY VEHICLE ALSO SHOULD BE COVERED UNDER THE EXTENDED CLOCK SPRING WARRANTY.
Air bags, May 11, 2021
MY AIRBAG LIGHT CAME ON. I HAVE HAD NO ACCIDENT. I CALLED THE DEALER AND THEY WANT $185 DIAGNOSTIC FEE. SHOULDN'T AIRBAGS AND SAFETY BE COVERED BY THE DEALER IF NO ACCIDENT HAS OCCURRED? I AM DRIVING WITHOUT AN AIRBAG RIGHT NOW DUE TO NO FAULT OF MY OWN. THE AIRBAG LIGHT JUST APPEARED ABOUT A WEEK AGO.
Air bags, May 5, 2021
AIR BAG SENSOR JUST WENT ON FIR NO REASON. TOLD STEERING WHEEL WOULD HAVE TO BE REMOVED AND COST WOULD BE CLOSE TO $400 FOR ENTIRE JOB. THIS SEEMS LIKE A DEFECT TO ME AS NEVER HAD ANY VEHICLES WITH THIS IMPORTANT SAFETY ISSUE.
Air bags, Mar 28, 2021
IM THE ORIGINAL OWNER OF A 2013 HYUNDAI ELANTRA WHICH I JUST TOOK IN TO LOCAL HYUNDAI DEALER FOR OIL CHANGE AND TO ALSO SEE ABOUT GETTING AIRBAG MALFUNCTION WARNING LIGHT CHECKED OUT...THEY TOLD ME THERE IS NO RECALL ISSUED ON THIS CAR......HOW CAN THAT BE WITH SOMETHING AS DANGEROUS AS THAT?
Air bags, Mar 11, 2021
MY AIR BAG LIGHT TURNED ON A FEW MONTHS AGO. AT FIRST, IT WAS WHEN I WAS ONLY TURNING MY STEERING WHEEL OR WHEN I WAS IN PARK. NOW, IT'S ALWAYS ON. I HAVE SEEN THIS ISSUE SO OFTEN AND FOR IT TO BE SUCH A COMMON ISSUE AND NOT RECALLED IS VERY DISAPPOINTING. THIS IS A HUGE SAFETY ISSUE AND CAN BE FATAL IF I WERE TO BE IN AN ACCIDENT BECAUSE MY AIR BAG WOULDN'T DEPLOY PROPERLY.
Air bags, Tires, Mar 4, 2021
2013 HYUNDAI ELANTRA. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO TIRE MOBILITY KITS SAFETY RECALL. *LD THE CONSUMER STATED THE DEALER ADVISED THE RECALL EXPIRED. THE AIRBAG LIGHT WAS ON. *JS
Air bags, Service brakes, Forward collision avoidance, Jan 26, 2021, crash
I WAS IN MOTION AND MY EMERGENCY BRAKE DID NOT WORK . I CONTINUE DOWN HILL AND TO AVOID ON COMING TRAFFIC,,I TURN TO THE RIGHT TO HIT THE FENCE. MY AIR BAGS NEVER OPEN. THA K GOD I ALWAYS WERE MY SEAT BELTS.