2020 Hyundai Elantra
Problems, recalls and owner-reported issues
Engine is the leading concern among 251 owner complaints filed for this model year. This is the 15th highest complaint count among 26 Elantra model years with reports.
Of the 2020 reports, 21 involved a crash and 6 involved a fire. 16 people were injured and 2 people died.
What owners report most often
Recalls and investigations
EngineApr 28, 2021
Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Elantra, 2019-2021 Kona and Veloster vehicles equipped with 2.0L Nu MPI engines. The piston oil rings may not have been properly heat-treated, which could result in engine damage.
A damaged engine may stall, increasing the risk of a crash. In addition, oil may leak onto hot exhaust components, increasing the risk of a fire.
Dealers will inspect and, if necessary, replace the engine, free of charge. In addition, Hyundai will deploy Piston Ring Noise Sensing System (PNSS) software. Owner notification letters were mailed August 24, 2021. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460.
Campaign 21V301000 on NHTSA.gov
Suspension, front, control arm, lower ball jointOct 9, 2019
Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2020 Elantra vehicles. The lower control arm ball joint fasteners may have been insufficiently tightened allowing the ball joint to detach from the lower control arm.
A detached ball joint can cause a loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash.
Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and, as necessary, tighten the ball joint fasteners, free of charge. The recall began November 20, 2019. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 185.
Campaign 19V721000 on NHTSA.gov
Wheels, lugs/nuts/bolts/studsOct 9, 2019
Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2019 Ioniq Hybrid and 2020 Elantra vehicles. The right-side rear wheel lug nuts may have been insufficiently tightened, allowing the wheel to detach from the vehicle.
A wheel detaching from the vehicle increases the risk of a crash.
Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and, if necessary, tighten the lug nuts, free of charge. The recall began November 15, 2019. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-800-251-0871. Hyundai's number for this recall is 184.
Campaign 19V720000 on NHTSA.gov
Representative owner complaints: engine
109 reports, newest first. Show all
Vehicle speed control, Engine, Forward collision avoidance, Nov 25, 2025
Cruise control on 55mph, car has slowed down going straight no uphill or downhill and accelerator did not work nothing blocking the accelerator. Had to pull over to a shoulder to shut engine off and on to drive. Tapping cruise control up to speed up in regulated area such as from 55 to a 65mph zone.. cruise control speed lowered. Attempting to speed up with accelerator still only slowing down. 3 times this year I had to change spark plugs within a 6 month period Error code p0302. Replaced battery alongside. Continues p0302 code. Replaced all coils and spark plugs still p0302. Climbing uphill vehicle sometimes looses power that happened twice in 2025 and twice in 2022. 3 times in 2024. That i must turn on hazards and floor the accelerator to gain speed on up hills in neighborhoods going 25 mph. I have dropped to 10 mph. I get oil change regularly. Always when due. Every few months I make sure to get a full car inspection to make sure everything is in proper working order.
Engine, Nov 24, 2025
At around the 120K mile odometer reading check engine light came on and upon checking the oil, noticed it was 1/2 qt. down in spite of a recent oil change. There were no other issues apparent to our mechanic. At the next oil change, we asked the techs to be sure to tighten the oil pan and all components as we mentioned the drop in oil after the previous oil change. This time, only 10 days after the oil change (we have been using hybrid blend since purchasing the vehicle new), the check engine light went on again and the oil was down a quart with no signs of leaking. Our mechanic checked it again and told us of many Hyundai oil consumption issues and suggested we check for a recall. My vehicle was not included in the oil consumption recall despite having the same year, model and engine as many of the other "certain" vehicles. We are currently negotiating a solution with Hyundai Motor Corp.
Engine, Oct 9, 2025
The vehicle is burning the engine oil. I get regular oil changes on time. I was told by the service center I had low oil at an oil change. It was changed and then again it a few months later I burned through the oil again. I checked it and there was very little oil. There is no leak. It is just burning it.
Engine, Oct 1, 2025
2020 Elantra built in Alabama with 2.0L engine has P0016 code and severe oil sludge at 73K miles - identical to Recall 21V301 symptoms but excluded because manufactured in Alabama not Korea. This appears to be the same defect affecting a different production batch.
Engine, Sep 21, 2025, fire
Engine blew up on the highway almost causing an accident. The car has had problems with rapid oil consumption since 20000 miles on the car. Always checked oil everyday and added oil when needed and regular oil changes every 3000 miles car was very well taken care of. No oil light or check engine light came on when the engine blew up.
Service brakes, Hydraulic, Engine, Sep 18, 2025
The contact's mother owns a 2020 Hyundai Elantra. The contact was informed that the vehicle occasionally stalled without warning and would be immediately restarted to continue driving. Additionally, the vehicle would hesitate before slowly accelerating. The contact stated that there was a knocking sound coming from the vehicle at start-up, with a constant ticking sound coming from the engine compartment. The check engine warning light was illuminated. There were signs of an oil leak, and the oil needed to be changed more frequently. While changing the oil, the owner noticed smoke coming from inside the oil pan. The traction control warning light and the ABS warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who diagnosed that the ABS module and piston rings in the engine had failed. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact became aware of NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V301000 (Engine); however, the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was informed of the failure and confirmed that the vehicle was not covered under recall or warranty. The contact was referred to the dealer for assistance. The failure mileage was 101,000.
Engine, Sep 7, 2025
I am writing to formally file a safety complaint regarding my 2020 Hyundai Elantra. I recently learned that Hyundai issued a recall related to a defect that poses a risk of engine fires in certain vehicles. However, my vehicle, which has exhibited the same dangerous symptoms, was not included in this recall campaign. Specifically, my vehicle has experienced a critical error relating to a defect included in NHTSA Recall #21V-301, which I understand is directly related to the safety defect identified in Hyundai’s recall. Despite this, I have not received a recall notice, and Hyundai has declined to provide repair coverage under the recall. This raises serious concerns for my safety, the safety of my passengers, and the public. A defect that can cause an engine fire should not be limited to specific VIN ranges if the underlying issue is present in additional vehicles like mine. I respectfully request that NHTSA investigate this matter and ensure Hyundai expands the recall to include affected vehicles such as mine. If Hyundai continues to exclude vehicles with the same defect, I believe this could warrant further legal and consumer protection actions, including potential class action litigation. Please find my vehicle information below: 2020 Hyundai Elantra VIN: [XXX] Mileage: 51,000 Thank you for your time and attention to this urgent safety concern. I look forward to your response and am willing to provide additional documentation, repair invoices, or photographs as needed. Sincerely, [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Engine, Aug 20, 2025
Spun bearing in engine. All service on vehicle up to date.
Service brakes, Engine, Forward collision avoidance, Aug 4, 2025
I have taken my car in twice due to my car braking when there is not a vehicle and or object in front of me but there are vehicles right behind me that have to brake but Crain denies that there are any issues. My engine light came on a couple of weeks ago and I took it to Auto Zone to have a diagnostic test done. The report states that it has something wrong with the transmission/transmission line and or fluid. When I looked it up online it stated that there are recalls on engine pistons that could cause the diagnostic test to read that it's the transmission. My car is a 2020 Hyundai Elantra value edition but according to your website, there are no recalls!?
Engine, Jun 25, 2025
The contact owns a 2020 Hyundai Elantra. The contact stated that while attempting to turn at approximately 5 MPH, the traction control warning light illuminated. The contact pulled over to the shoulder of the road and restarted the vehicle; however, the vehicle failed to accelerate as intended while the accelerator pedal was depressed. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was towed to a local independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed with excessive oil consumption, catalytic converter failure, and related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V301000 (Engine). The local dealer was contacted however, the VIN was not included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V301000 (Engine). The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 89,709.
Engine, Jun 17, 2025
The contact owns a 2020 Hyundai Elantra. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle hesitated and lost automotive power. No warning lights were illuminated. The local dealer was contacted; however, the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact stated that an appointment with the dealer was scheduled to inspect the vehicle. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 68,000.
Engine, May 27, 2025
Engine timing chains are failing in a direct result from recall campaign ID 21V301000 Piston ring noise sensing system which contaminated my oil accelerating wear on my engine chain and sprockets. A failed or ineffective piston ring noise sensing system can let piston/ring damage go unchecked, leading to oil contamination, which in turn wears out or destroys the timing chain system.
Engine, Mar 23, 2025
I experienced engine failure with this make and model out of no where. Seen online recalls in the past for same make, year, and model. Dealership and and corporate are not helping me one bit, threatening to charge me for storage, lied about my corporate case being denied, when I have email evidence it was still open, and now zero contact back from Hyundai corporation. I'm trying to seek legal advice and would love any help moving forward struggling gravelly from all of this. Thank you so much
Engine, Mar 13, 2025
The contact owns a 2020 Hyundai Elantra. The contact assisted in jumpstarting another vehicle with battery failure. The contact stated that the vehicle failed to start the next day after several attempts. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact stated that the TPMS warning light had been illuminated prior to the failure. Due to the failure, the vehicle was towed to two separate independent mechanics who informed the contact that the engine had failed. The dealer was notified of the failure and the contact was informed that there were no recalls on the vehicle. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired and remained with an independent mechanic. The failure mileage was approximately 130,000.
Engine, Mar 7, 2025
Burning oil at any unacceptable rate. I have made sure to have preventative maintenance and oil changes done every 3K miles. Hyundai needs to address this problem that appears to be plaguing many drivers.
Power train, Engine, Dec 31, 2024
transmission failed while driving & now doesn’t drive.
Engine, Fuel/propulsion system, Dec 20, 2024
Engine stalled out, oil light and engine repair light both on, call will not turn over
Engine, Nov 15, 2024
Took car into closest mechanic on Saturday 11/09/24 and was informed that both engine mounts were completely shot. Mechanic informed me car was unsafe to drive. Had the car repaired as Hyundai service center was closed. I contacted Hyundai on Monday 11/11/24 to let them know what happened. Received call yesterday from case manager that since I didn't take car to Hyundai facility they would not reimburse me the money paid on the repair. Mechanic at service station said it was unsafe to drive the car of his property. The mechanic also told me he has never seen either engine mount completely shot in care that was only 4 years old.
Engine, Oct 7, 2024
My vehicle stalled. I was heading to work and vehicle just cut off while driving. The day before it had started making a strange knocking, clicking sound. It will not charge and will not start up. I have not contacted manufacturer and not inspected by manufacturer. I checked vin # but not on recall list. I have kept my car up to date with servicing.The noise it made when it started to stall was really loud and then cut off. My safety was put at risk because I take the highway to work everyday and almost reached the highway that day before it stalled. My car is used for taking my kids to school, doctors appts and work. I am thankful my kids were not in the car when this happened. It had to be pushed off the road in a high traffic area causing a safety issue.
Engine, Sep 21, 2024
Engine failure: Engine light came on and oil level was abnormally low, even though oil had been changed not long before. Before able to add buy more oil to add when checked, the engine gradually lost pressure and wouldn't stay started. Died in the middle lane of highway all of a sudden. Inspection under hood showed that there was oil all around on engine and some on the ground. Towed to dealership and was not told of interim recall 21V-301. Possible acceleration of engine oil consumption due to bad piston oil rings. Later I researched and found that Hyundai was to inform owners that they were encouraged to check the level of oil periodically between oil changes...that accelerated oil consumption was possible due to this issue of the oil rings. Had to research and find myself.
Electrical system, Engine, Fuel/propulsion system, Sep 12, 2024
The warning lamp (engine light) illuminated blinking on and off. Engine code P1327 read on the diagnostic check, riding on the expressway was a little uncomfortable, engine was losing power which is unsafe at high speeds. I’ve contacted the nearest Hyundai dealer and scheduled an appointment for the car repair. I take care of the car and any repairs for maintenance and I never have any problems whatsoever until day. After doing research Hyundai had or has a recall for my vehicle with the VIN NUMBER starting with KMH, for engine replacement and I want to know if Hyundai can fix this issue.
Engine, Aug 30, 2024
The contact owns a 2020 Hyundai Elantra. The contact stated while driving at various speeds and releasing the accelerator pedal to come to a stop, the vehicle sputtered, made a clicking sound, and stalled. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The contact was able to pull over to the side of the road. The contact shifted to neutral(N) and was able to restart the vehicle. The contact stated that the failure had been recurring while driving. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed with engine failure. The mechanic related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V301000 (Engine) and referred the contact to the manufacturer for assistance. The dealer and the manufacturer were notified of the failure and informed the contact that the VIN was not included in the recall. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 70,000.
Exterior lighting, Service brakes, Engine, Aug 26, 2024
It makes noise when driving a mph
Electrical system, Exterior lighting, Engine, Aug 21, 2024, fire
A fire started in the passenger headlight assembly. The car had only been running for about 7 minutes directly prior to the fire being noticed. At the time of the fire it was parked & turned off. No injuries. It burned thru/melted part of the bumper & damaged something with the windshield washer fluid. Several people were at risk due to there being a fire! The car was parked at a gas station when the fire broke out. I don't think they have done a thorough investigation yet. It is current at Hyundai of Metairie in Metairie LA. According to the service technician my car is not the only one they have there that had the same thing happen. No warning signs, sounds, or anything else.
Electrical system, Vehicle speed control, Engine, Jun 28, 2024
Car is almost stalling Randomly on the highway . The rpm’s go up and car won’t speed up slows down . Stalls very randomly I am terrified to drive it , I used to have so much confidence on a newer Hyundai .