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
1,330 reports, newest first.
Service brakes, Air, Dec 15, 2023
Recall of the ABS Remedy Not Yet Available I do not feel safe driving or parking
Service brakes, Hydraulic, Dec 14, 2023
The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Elantra. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V651000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Service brakes, Hydraulic, Dec 12, 2023
The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Elantra. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V651000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Service brakes, Hydraulic, Dec 12, 2023
The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Elantra. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V651000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic) however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Other or unspecified, Dec 11, 2023
I received a notice that I am driving a potential bomb and they will fix it. They are building a factory in my area for making new cars, but shouldn't they be required to fix their old cars before making new ones. They have no date for fixing my car which, basically, makes me without a vehicle indefinitely, which could be forever, if ever. I am unable to purchase a new car, so here I am with a bomb.
Electrical system, Dec 11, 2023
This particular recall was begun in September 2023. My vehicle was affected by it and upon calling my local Hyundai dealer, I was informed that no 'remedy' has been determined. I have checked online several times for an update and nothing has changed. I am concerned about potential fire risk and am a homeowner. I prefer the security of my own locked garage, yet Hyundai suggests parking the vehicle outside - yet their other recent recall of Hyundai vehicle subjected consumers to theft of vehicles. I can't win. It's been 2 months since the recall was announced. I am concerned that no solution has been offered for this current 'fire' recall. How long can Hyundai continue to drags its feet while leaving millions of customers at potential risk?
Service brakes, Hydraulic, Dec 7, 2023
The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Elantra. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V651000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic) however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The local dealer was contacted, and it was confirmed that the part was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Service brakes, Hydraulic, Dec 5, 2023
The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Elantra. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V651000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The dealer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Other or unspecified, Service brakes, Dec 4, 2023
There was no incident. I’m complaining because Hyundai has yet to do anything to address the recall Sep 22,2023 Manufacturer Recall Number251 NHTSA Recall Number23V651000. Why aren’t you insisting that Hyundai starts repairing vehicles affected by a recall issued last September. And the last time my car was recalled for a different recall I had to wait 2 months to get an appointment with my dealer. So who knows how long it will take to resolve this current recall. How can you allow them to take so long to fix this serious problem. Do something!!
Power train, Engine, Dec 4, 2023
The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Elantra. The contact stated while driving at various speeds, the vehicle hesitated upon the depression of the accelerator pedal. The contact also stated that the vehicle would shut off while idling with the check engine warning light illuminated. Neither the dealer nor the manufacturer was notified of the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 200,000.
Service brakes, Hydraulic, Dec 4, 2023
The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Elantra. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V651000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic) however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The contact stated that there was an unknown liquid leaking from near the fuel tank. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The approximate failure mileage was 134,000. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Service brakes, Hydraulic, Dec 1, 2023
The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Elantra. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V651000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic) however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The contact stated that while depressing the brake pedal, the brakes were squeaking. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The failure mileage was 59,000. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Service brakes, Hydraulic, Dec 1, 2023
The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Elantra. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V651000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic) however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The contact stated that when applying the brakes they would emit a squeaking noise. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The failure mileage was 59,000. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Service brakes, Hydraulic, Nov 30, 2023
The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Elantra. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V651000 (Services Brakes, Hydraulic) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Service brakes, Hydraulic, Nov 30, 2023
The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Elantra. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V651000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The dealer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Service brakes, Hydraulic, Nov 29, 2023
The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Elantra. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V651000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The dealer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Steering, Nov 28, 2023
My vehicle i have issue with Steering Rubber Coupling which is bad and a safety concern for me. K contacted the Hyundai Motors and they declined the service. Just like me there tons of Hyundai Vehicles owners experience the same problem.
Vehicle speed control, Service brakes, Engine, Nov 28, 2023
Car has a ticking sound, car has died on me multiple times. The vehicle has stopped moving regardless of pressing on accelerator and died leaving me stranded, feeling unsafe. I have been driving at 40 mph and then seem to lose power, making it to where can only go 10 to 20 mph or totally dying. I was also having issues with key fobs not working. Door would open, unlock and then not, car stalling. No lights illuminating on dash. Battery in fob replaced after car being towed to shop after stalling, dying issue and I was basically told they didn't know what was up with the stalling, maybe fobs. I had an oil change done and full diagnostic, sent on way without answers. Happened again, electrical issues, fob not working, stalling, start hesitation and dying, no power. I had it towed to different shop and was told had couple of codes showing up even though no check engine light on, they stated a caliper was leaking along with other oil leak and crankshaft sensor needed replaced, which got fixed. The car has 98000 miles on it (around there) and I see safety recall posted. I finance this car and have literally only had it not even 5 months. I do not feel safe driving it. I've been stranded, at times key fobs and locks act up on it still, the ticking is definitely a concern, RPMS off and revs up at times while also lacking pick up and go. I contacted my local Hyundai and they stated no resolution on safety recall yet, can schedule an appointment and pay for diagnostic, which would make my 3rd diagnostic over the last month or so. I need something remedied. I transport myself and at times my children and I do not feel safe in this vehicle which again purchased just about 5 months ago from Car Max. Help please!
Service brakes, Hydraulic, Nov 27, 2023
The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Elantra. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V651000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic) however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Steering, Nov 27, 2023, crash
The steering coupler failed, causing the tires to turn back and forth (oscillate) while the driver held the steering wheel steady. The vehicle went out of control and spun out on wet pavement. The driver could feel the steering wheel go thunk-thunk-thunk back and forth, as the servomotor for the electric power steering system went out of control. The failed coupler is between the servomotor and the power steering rack. The free play from the defective steering coupler allows the electric power steering system to turn the tires WITHOUT any input from the steering wheel or driver, causing the vehicle to become unstable and spin out. Hyundai has a TSB on this issue [XXX] , but Hyndai says that this issue is a non-safety clunk noise. FALSE. This is a safety issue where the electric power steering system turns the tires (wheels) back and forth WITHOUT driver input. This causes the vehicle to become unstable, almost killing my wife. This IS a NHTSA safety issue, not a noise complaint. Hyundai falsely classified this problem as a noise issue, not a safety issue. This is a known defect that is falsely classified as a non-safety issue, escaping a NHTSA recall notice. This is a safety issue where the steering becomes unstable as the servomotor goes crazy due to the extra play or slop in the failed coupler. The safety issue is unrecoverable on wet or snowy pavement. On dry pavement it is annoying and unstable. This issue is also very dangerous and causes oversteer (spin outs) when the wheels hit an expansion joint at an angle. The vehicle oscillates and spins out, as the electric power steering system becomes unstable. It is terrible. This TSB needs to be reclassified properly as a safety recall. Thank you. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
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
Other or unspecified, Nov 26, 2023
unknown, fire hazard to park or drive vehicle. Expedited measurements need to be taken on RECALL...reimbursement for a rental car until the problem can be fixed. Hazardous conditions if fire potential.
Electrical system, Engine, Nov 25, 2023
My car keeps breaking down whenever I slow down or press on the brakes. I have a malfunction indicator lamp and I was notified via letter to call Hyundai asap to get a service so that my car doesn’t light on fire. I went to a mechanic who told me the engine is bad and it’s also a real from Hyundai. I called numerous times, and every time I am told there’s nothing they can do about it at this time. They keep telling me to wait and they don’t give me any options. This is a frustrating situation. I drive two small children in my car and I don’t want anything to happen to them because the Hyundai dealership refused to fix their mistake.
Service brakes, Hydraulic, Nov 24, 2023
The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Elantra. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V651000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The dealer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.