2017 Hyundai Elantra
Problems, recalls and owner-reported issues
Engine is the leading concern among 767 owner complaints filed for this model year. This is the 2nd highest complaint count among 26 Elantra model years with reports.
Of the 2017 reports, 37 involved a crash and 6 involved a fire. 24 people were injured.
What owners report most often
Recalls and investigations
Steering, electric power assist systemMar 28, 2017
Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2017 Elantra vehicles. The affected vehicles may have a damaged Electronic Power Steering (MDPS) connector resulting in a loss of electric power steering assistance.
Loss of power steering assist would require higher steering effort, especially at lower speeds, which may increase the risk of a crash.
Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will replace the EPS motor, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin April 28, 2017. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-800-243-7766. Hyundai's number for this recall 161.
Campaign 17V213000 on NHTSA.gov
Service brakes, hydraulic, power assist, hydraulicJan 26, 2017
Hyundai Motor Company (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2017 Elantra vehicles. In the affected vehicles, the brake booster may fail, resulting in a loss of power brake assist.
A loss of power brake assist can lengthen the distance needed to stop the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Hyundai has notified owners, and dealers will replace the brake system booster assembly, free of charge. The recall began on February 6, 2017. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-800-633-5151. Hyundai's number for this recall is 157.
Campaign 17V063000 on NHTSA.gov
Air bags, frontal, driver side, inflator moduleDec 30, 2016
Hyundai Motor Company (Hyundai) is recalling certain model year 2017 Hyundai Elantra vehicles manufactured April 15, 2016, to September 13, 2016, and Sonata vehicles manufactured May 27, 2016 to September 16, 2016. In these vehicles, the end seal for the driver's frontal air bag inflator may not have been properly installed, possibly resulting in reduced inflation of the frontal air bag in the event of a crash.
In the event of a crash, an air bag that does not inflate fully increases the risk of injury.
Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will replace the driver's frontal air bag module, free of charge. The recall began February 13, 2017. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 156.
Campaign 16V956000 on NHTSA.gov
Air bags, frontalApr 21, 2016
Hyundai Motor Company (Hyundai) is recalling certain model year 2015-2016 Sonata vehicles manufactured May 29, 2014 to February 11, 2016, 2017 Elantra vehicles manufactured January 12, 2016 to February 22, 2016, and one 2016 Sonata Hybrid vehicle manufactured October 15, 2015. In these vehicles, the driver's frontal air bag may be missing a chemical enhancer required for the second stage air bag deployment, resulting in the second stage not deploying in certain crashes. The primary stage will deploy as intended.
An air bag that does not inflate increases the risk of injury.
Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will replace the driver's frontal air bag module, free of charge. The recall began on May 5,2016. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 144.
Campaign 16V232000 on NHTSA.gov
Representative owner complaints
767 reports, newest first.
Visibility/wiper, Sep 9, 2025
the defrost does not work good, Hard to see when it's raining and fog
Other or unspecified, Sep 9, 2025
This is for a paint problem that my car has lost its paint within six months. My car is peeling off very fast and there was a class action lawsuit. And now a new one has started. I see nobody at your office wants to help people.
Steering, Aug 28, 2025
The contact owns a 2017 Hyundai Elantra. The contact stated that while driving at a slow speed, the electric power steering message was displayed. The contact was unable to steer the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, who confirmed that the vehicle was not included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 17V213000 (Steering). The vehicle was diagnosed and repaired. The manufacturer was contacted but declined to provide additional assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 83,590.
Structure, Aug 24, 2025
Back door on driver's side will not open from inside or outside when door is unlocked. I have checked and the child safety feature is not on. I have not had it checked into yet. No one rides in the back currently but this is a definite safety hazard. No messages/warning lamps of any problems. I wanted to place a few grocery bags back there and it would not open. Have repeatedly tried over a couple of months and nothing changes. Even though I can hear it unlock.
Other or unspecified, Engine, Fuel/propulsion system, Aug 19, 2025
When driving at low speeds(20mph and under) vehicle stalls. It appears to happen at random. It makes driving pretty dangerous for other vehicles that would not be able to tell the vehicle has stalled and hit me at low speeds. All electrics stay on, there is no check engine light. The problem first appeared after ignition lock was broken, even before replaced it started stalls at low speeds, seems to possibly happen more after engine is warmed up.
Engine, Aug 14, 2025
While driving down the road, the car lost complete power. No warning lights came on until after the car had lost power. Car struggled to start back up. I put flashers on in hopes that others would notice my disabled vehicle in the middle of the road, while it was also pouring down the rain. The vehicle was towed to my local dealership where it was confirmed that I would need a new engine. The engine had a high oil consumption issue that caused it to stale while driving. The dealership informed me either there was a rod bearing issue or a piston slap in the engine. They recommended to park the car until fixed
Structure, Engine, Aug 14, 2025
RAPID LOSS OF POWER FAILURE OF IGNITION COIL. HAPPENED FOR ALL FOUR. SUDDENLY UNABLE TO OPEN FRONT OR REAR DOORS ON PASSENGER SIDE. ACTUATOR FAILURES. BOTH OF THESE CONDITIONS REPORTED TO HYUNDAI, MY COMPLAINT IS THAT HYUNDAI IS WELL AWARE OF THESE PPROBLEMS DEALER CONFIRMED THEY ARE COMMON ACROSS MODELS. THEY ARE EXPENSIVE REPAIRS. WHY ARE THEY NOT RECALLS. COILS HAPPENED ABOUT 2023 WITH 55000 MILES (OUT OF WARRANTY). DOORS ARE CURRENT AND I CANT AFFORD $2000 FOR REPAIR.
Wheels, Service brakes, Aug 5, 2025
A car pulled out in front of me. I hit my brakes and now the calipers are locked. When the incident happened the brakes on the left side of the car locked up. I have no warning lights and the caliper is still locked. I have been to a couple mechanics and no one understands. If you unplug the brake line from the ABS unit the calipers release. Front calipers, brakes, and brake lines have been replaced
Exterior lighting, Aug 4, 2025
Hi, Over the course of the 8 years I have owned this vehicle. The brake lights have needed to be replaced multiple times on multiple areas. This is a common issue that there’s entirely Facebook and Reddit pages dedicated to because of the known faulty harness issues. It is an incredibly expensive repair and these parts should be recalled as they are a known issue. My service guys know it. Every Hyundai owner knows it. And even random Facebook/redditors know it.
Other or unspecified, Jul 28, 2025
unknown, stalls randomly after driving for about 10 minutes
Power train, Electrical system, Service brakes, Jul 22, 2025
The vehicle has experienced ongoing powertrain and electrical malfunctions over several months. The most common symptoms include being stuck in 4th gear (limp mode), complete loss of RPM and speedometer readings, and illumination of the check engine and ESC lights. Most recently, while traveling at approximately 10 mph, the vehicle experienced a sudden loss of both acceleration and braking. The brake pedal became stiff and unresponsive, and the car had to coast to a stop without driver control. This posed a serious safety risk to myself and nearby traffic. These issues have persisted across multiple service visits to Ricart Hyundai in Groveport, Ohio. That dealership has replaced the crankshaft position sensor three times, the powertrain control module (PCM), and the battery, but the underlying problems remain unresolved. A technician at the dealership was able to reproduce the stalling event during a test drive. Despite that, the dealership has refused to proceed with further diagnostics unless I pay for an oil change, even though previous inspections by their own staff found no visible leaks and confirmed the oil level was sufficient at the time. They have also revoked complimentary access to a loaner vehicle despite the unresolved and unsafe condition of the car. The vehicle remains available for inspection. The problem has been confirmed by a dealership, has occurred repeatedly, and continues to pose a safety concern. Warning lights and gauge failures typically appear when the issue occurs.
Electrical system, Jul 17, 2025
Odometer Fraud. The contact owns a 2017 Hyundai Elantra. The contact stated that upon taking the vehicle to an independent mechanic for servicing, the contact was informed that there was a mileage discrepancy. Additionally, the contact was informed that the check engine warning light had been tampered with and tape had been applied over the check engine warning light prior to the purchase. The vehicle was a dealer sale. At the time of purchase, it was reported that the mileage was 85,000, and upon taking the vehicle to an independent mechanic shop, it was discovered that the mileage on the Carfax report was 215,000 on September 2024.
Other or unspecified, Jul 7, 2025
Door lock actuator on rear driver's side door not working. Door stuck closed, even though power to lock is present and locking / unlocking mechanism works. Door will not open from inside or outside.
Electrical system, Jun 25, 2025
My auto has a problem with the brake light on the drivers side not working at some times. The issue seems to happen almost every 6 months or so. The first time it stopped working, I took my auto to the dealership where i purchased it from costing me about $65.00, the second time 6 months later the brake light went out again. The bulb was replaced by the dealership at no charge, I was told that the bulb was put in wrong. The brake light is now out again. I noticed that it may come on but when I press the brake pedal and release the emergency brake, it goes out and stays out until I shut the auto off for a long period of time. Often it will be on when I'm driving and then it goes out.
Engine, Jun 23, 2025
I was told by the mechanic about the following. My car has shown engine oil burning issue, and it made the timing chain placing in the faulty function frequently. I changed the timing chain last year and was advised that I would need to check engine oil level because of engine oil burning issue. I was advised to check it at every 2500 miles. Recently my car showed check engine light on again, so I visited the repair shop and found out that the engine oil was totally gone before 2000 miles. The synthetic engine oil change should be at every 5000 miles. The rapid engine oil consumption made my car getting check engine sign on and I was told that it eventually would stop my car. And I was told that it is very hard to fix it because it is due to faulty engine issue.
Steering, Electrical system, Jun 22, 2025
My vehicle was towed to manly Hyundai in Santa Rosa Ca June 18,2025. The vehicle when driving steered all over the lane then locked up on me almost causing a crash. The dealership says it’s the electrical column assembly. My vehicle is a 2017 Hyundai Elantra but don’t see any recall on it and I am being charged $3400.00. The red steering wheel light went on . I’m looking for a recall on this vehicle seems many others have had the same issue. I do not have any receipts yet since it was towed and parts are being ordered and work will start this week. As soon as I have paperwork I can forward it to you. Thanks for your help in advance. [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Engine, Jun 17, 2025
The contact owns a 2017 Hyundai Elantra. The contact stated that after starting the vehicle, the vehicle lost automotive power and then lost power after driving a short distance. No warning light was illuminated. In addition, there was an abnormal sound coming from the engine. The vehicle was taken to a local independent mechanic; however, the failure was not replicated. The contact stated that the vehicle was previously taken to the same independent mechanic, and the spark plugs were replaced. The local dealer was contacted; however, the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 150,000.
Service brakes, Hydraulic, Jun 16, 2025
The contact owns a 2017 Hyundai Elantra. The contact stated while driving at various speeds, the brake pedal felt stiff while depressed. Additionally, the vehicle failed to slow down as intended. No warning light was illuminated. The contact stated that prior to the failure, the brake pads and rotors were replaced. The local dealer was contacted; however, the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired due to the cost. Upon further investigation, the contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 17V063000 (Service Brake, Hydraulic); however, the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 63,000.
Power train, Engine, Jun 12, 2025
Timing chain looseness, Sudden loss of engine power/motive power. Vehicle was sold, unknown if available for inspection. Engine failure on and in the middle of the interstate/highway, and this caused a major crash risk, and safety hazard. This make and model of vehicle has multiple reports of similar incidents. The repairs would’ve cost over 3 times the value of the car. As stated by the vehicle manufacturer, the entire engine would need to be replaced, with a factory built engine in order to comply with NHTSA and safety regulations. I’m no longer in possession of the vehicle. It was sold. While the vehicle was operating, and drivable there would be a chime and a flashing check engine light/indicator on occasion. Although no codes were present at maintenance center, therefore unable to identify the exact cause.
Structure, Jun 12, 2025
passenger front door wont open as of2-15-25 and rear door won't open as of 3-14-2024
Engine, Jun 9, 2025
Car had check engine come on with No significant symptom. Mechanic said this code leads them to either timing chain, phasers, or piston valve all located in the engine. The car does not have much time at this point. It’s very costly after just having changed all the oil gaskets from a leaky engine. Mechanic said it will suddenly get bad if left unpaired and could be dangerous for me while driving.
Engine and engine cooling, Other or unspecified, Jun 6, 2025
See attached document for complaint.
Other or unspecified, May 19, 2025
Coil 1 & 4 misfire. Won’t accelerate well & engine light blinks. Car will stall then die when engine light blinks too much in 1 minute.
Air bags, May 9, 2025, crash
I was currently in an accident and my airbags did not deploy. My safety was at risk because I am pregnant. The vehicle was inspected by insurance representatives or body shop. No warning or other symptoms of problems prior to failure
Engine and engine cooling, Engine, May 8, 2025
The contact owns a 2017 Hyundai Elantra. The contact stated that the check engine warning light was illuminated. The contact stated that the vehicle was intermittently shuddering while accelerating. The vehicle was taken to a certified mechanic who diagnosed that the timing belt and exhaust camshaft needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and referred the contact to the dealer who confirmed the diagnostic results. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and opened a case. The failure mileage was approximately 108,000.