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: steering
271 reports, newest first. Show all
Steering, Nov 27, 2023
I have steering issue with loud clunking coming from steering wheel, it is my understanding that this is a coupler issue that Hyundai had placed a extended warranty on up to 10 years from delivery when I'm coming up on but up on, however when I check with Hyundai I'm told that my VIN is not covered by this extended warranty and I'm concerned that this could fail completely causing possible safety issue. I'm told repair will cost 450 dollars which is not in my budget. I'm sure I'm not alone so I'm adding my voice to others that can or should not have to afford such a repair.
Steering, Electrical system, Air bags, Nov 26, 2023
2013 Elantra GT purchased new less than 63,000 miles. Airbag warning light on constantly. Hyundai has issued an extended lifetime warranty on clock spring. 2 local Dealers are 45 days behind in scheduling repairs and will not look at clockspring without agreement to pay $200.00 diagnostic fee to find what other issue may be at fault. This makes the extended warranty bait and switch smokescreen worthless. Diagnostic failed to identify clock spring failure. Instead both front end impact sensors were shorting out and anticipated ECU failure. estimated repair approx $1,000. After this diagnosis noise and resistance in steering wheel increased which is symptomatic of clock spring failure causing electrical failure in other systems. 20 miles later AC blower motor failed and burning electrical smell/smoke presented from behind dashboard. The extent and resulting danger from the faulty wiring systems is undetermined at this time. Significant risk of fire danger
Steering, Nov 18, 2023
There is a bushing in the electronic power steering motor that fails very often in this year model and make. This bushing is involved with the steering operation of the car and may cause loss of steering while driving. It is a well documented issue on the internet.
Steering, Air bags, Oct 12, 2023
The Power Steering System failed with both EPS and Traction Control Lights. Can only steer without assists. Air Bag light on
Steering, Oct 4, 2023
The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Elantra. The contact stated while driving 30-35 MPH and making a turn, the steering wheel made an abnormal clicking sound. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact stated that the failure had been recurring while driving. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where the failure was related to the steering wheel. There was no further information provided. The independent mechanic referred the contact to the dealer for assistance. The dealer was notified of the failure, but no assistance was provided. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 92,000.
Steering, Oct 2, 2023, crash
The steering went out, causing me to crash, car flipped. Steering was making this clicking/popping noise for a long time. I see on line a lot of other people experience this and also crashes.
Steering, Sep 29, 2023
When Ever I turn my steering I hear a rubbing noise. Upon online research it sounds like a steering (MPDS) bearing is worn. Sound it makes is getting worse. I fear if my steering will eventually freeze while driving. Manufacturer had a technical service bulletin for other year models but not for 2013 Elantra and they do not sell bearing alone. Was told they sell entire steering column assembly. No warning lamp/ messages earlier. I did have issue with worn steering coupler which I just replaced and still have this other problem.
Steering, Electrical system, Sep 28, 2023
TPMS light is flashing due to failure in electrical panel, despite tire pressure being normal. Additionally, the steering wheel makes a clicking noise that increases when accelerating above 10 mph.
Steering, Sep 13, 2023
My steering wheel has a clunking sound and you can feel it in the steering wheel when moving the wheel slightly to the right and left
Steering, Aug 17, 2023
when i turn the wheel to the left, i heard a bump noise, like the steering is about to go out. Took my car to a mechanic he said it is the electronic power steering and it was a safety issue that was under recall. Called dealer they said they won't repair it for free because my car is over 100K miles. They want to charge me $350. so not fair. Dealership shouldn't be able to not repair recalls period. they make a mistake the public has to pay for it.
Steering, Aug 8, 2023
There is a clicking sound in the Hyundai's steering column. The issue is common enough that Hyundai has extended the warranty on the coupler for Elantras and Sonatas - however the dealer charges over $160/hour diagnostic charge so the extended warranty is not helpful. I think Hyundai should issue a recall for this item. Hyundai is claiming that this is not a safety issue, but it is very concerning when you hear a loud clicking noise coming from your steering column. I expect the noise to worsen and fear that it could potentially damage the steering column. I did take my car to a local repair shop (not the dealer) and they confirmed that it sounds like a coupler issue and provided an estimate for a costly repair.
Steering, Aug 1, 2023
I noticed extra play in the steering when I turned the wheel (either direction.) At first, it was minor but over time, the play and noise in the steering got worse. I took it to Midas to have it examined and was told the steering couple was bad and should be replaced but referred me back to a dealer as they felt the repair should be covered. I was told that it is not covered and the repair is costly. I am not able to afford the repair and am concerned about the safety of continuing to drive this vehicle but it is the only car I have.
Steering, Aug 1, 2023
The steering wheel clicks when turning and even when trying to drive straight. The car requires more effort to stay in lane and potential safety concerns include total loss of steering while driving. This is a known problem with Hyundai's Electric Steering Flex Coupler. There are many reports of this issue online and it seems Hyundai issued an extended warranty until 100,000 miles for this issue but claims there are no safety impacts. However, the issue involves the degrading of the coupler used and this typically occurs AFTER 100,000 miles, as happened with my vehicle. Also, when taking the vehicle to the dealership for other service, this defect was noted and we were warned that it CAN be potentially a safety concern. So, the dealers themselves acknowledge this is a safety issue and yet they will not cover this $450 repair. I cannot afford this out-of-pocket expense. The car maker should be responsible to repair a known defect in manufacture that their service technicians state are safety concerns.
Steering, Jul 12, 2023
Dealer refused to repair defective steering wheel for which manufacturer has issued recall notice. Dealer stated that recall repairs were no longer covered
Steering, Jul 5, 2023
The problem is in the steering and yes it is available upon request for inspection. My safety and that of anyone riding is at risk because the problem persists and it's progressively worse. There's a knock/pull/resistance whenever the steering turns slightly or fully either way. Yes the problem has been confirmed. The vehicle has been inspected by an independent business owner, and contractor. There were no warning signs or indicators of the problem, it started approximately 2020 but was slightly less pronounced than it is now and has become increasingly worse.
Steering, Jun 15, 2023
The contact’s daughter owns a 2013 Hyundai Elantra. The contact stated that while his daughter was driving at an undisclosed speed, the steering wheel became firm. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who informed the contact not to drive the vehicle. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.
Steering, May 16, 2023
While driving the steering made a clunking noise and the ability to turn the steering wheel was affected. At low speeds the steering wheel is pulling and feels like there is a loose spot in the turning radius of the steering. After researching, the possible issue is the 926-990 Flexible Steering Coupler.
Steering, Apr 9, 2023
The steering coupler is out
Steering, Electrical system, Engine, Mar 27, 2023
I have replaced the lights and battery many times and something keeps draining it. The outside brake lights sometimes stay on. So does the front running lights. The car sometimes wants to stall and when I press on the gas pedal it finally catches but still seems like it is going to shut down. The steering column has a really bad clicking in it and doesn’t seem to be tight anymore.
Steering, Mar 17, 2023
Steering coupling failed. Hyundai is repairing this defective part on other models of the Elantra, but will not on the Elantra Gt. Makes no sense as it is the exact same defective part.
Steering, Mar 14, 2023, crash
The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Elantra. The contact's daughter was driving at approximately 70 MPH when she heard an abnormal "pop" sound come from under the floorboards. The contact said that as she was following the road on a right-hand curve the vehicle steering was not responding to her steering correction to follow the turn. The contact said that his daughter lost control and spun the vehicle 180 degrees and crashed into a guard rail. The contact stated that she did not notice any warning lights. The vehicle hit the guard first with the front driver's fender and then the entire driver's side hit the guard rail and all forward momentum stopped. The police arrived on the scene and wrote a report. The daughter had not suffered any injuries, however, the vehicle was undrivable and was towed to a towing lot. The manufacturer had not been informed of the failure. The contact's insurance provider declared the vehicle a total loss. The contact researched online and related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V311000 (Steering). The failure mileage was approximately 130,000.
Steering, Mar 13, 2023
When I turn the wheel there is a loud clunking noise
Steering, Mar 10, 2023
2013 HYUNDAI ELANTRA. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARD TO LOOSE STEERING WHEEL COLUMN.
Steering, Mar 6, 2023
I own a 2013 hyundai elantra with around 53k miles at the time of making this complaint. My problem was that the steering coupler failed and would cause the steering wheel to make a clunking noise when steering left and right. Also when i go over a bump my steering wheel would vibrate and on top of that my car would sometimes drift slightly left or right which puts me at risk for an accident. thankfully i didn’t get into one. From what i’ve heard this is a common problem with these cars and had the coupler replaced which seems to fix the problem and am upset i had to fork out over 600$ to fix it at a hyundai dealer on the day of March 6 2023 and i was hoping i was covered under a warranty but per the hyundai dealer employee he said i wasn’t covered since the warranty expired. i wasn’t the first original owner of the car so the car is past the 10 year warranty period per the dealer employee, i owned it for about 5 years. wish hyundai would extend the warranty or recall this problem on these trash cars.
Steering, Feb 4, 2023
Something in the steering wheel is messed up. When the wheel is turned even a few centimeters, it makes a loud clicking noise like something is not attached correctly. It causes the car the shake when going over bumps/pot holes.