Hyundai Elantra Years to Avoid – The Hyundai Elantra is a popular compact car that has been in production since 1990. Over the years, the Elantra has undergone numerous changes, making it a reliable and affordable car option for many consumers.
However, like any other car model, the Elantra has had some problematic years that should be avoided.
This comprehensive guide aims to provide you with information on the best years and years to avoid the Hyundai Elantra.
The Best Years of the Hyundai Elantra
The best years of the Hyundai Elantra are those that have proven to be reliable, efficient, and feature-packed. Below is a detailed analysis of each year, starting from the oldest to the newest.
1996-2000 Hyundai Elantra
The first-generation Elantra was produced from 1990-1995, and the second-generation Elantra was produced from 1996-2000. The 1996-2000 models are considered the best years of the second-generation Elantra.
These models were equipped with a 1.8-liter engine and had a spacious interior that could comfortably accommodate four adults. They also featured standard air conditioning, power windows, and power locks.
2001-2006 Hyundai Elantra
The third-generation Elantra was produced from 2000-2006, and the 2001-2006 models are considered the best years. These models featured a redesigned body and improved suspension, making them more stable and comfortable to drive.
They also had a spacious interior and were equipped with standard features such as air conditioning, power windows, and power locks.
In addition, the 2004-2006 models had improved safety features, including side airbags and stability control.
2007-2010 Hyundai Elantra
The fourth-generation Elantra was produced from 2006-2010, and the 2007-2010 models are considered the best years. These models featured a sleeker exterior design and improved fuel efficiency.
They were equipped with a 2.0-liter engine and had a spacious interior with ample legroom and headroom.
In addition, the 2008-2010 models had improved safety features, including electronic stability control and side-curtain airbags.
2011-2016 Hyundai Elantra
The fifth-generation Elantra was produced from 2010-2016, and the 2011-2016 models are considered the best years. These models featured a stylish exterior design, improved fuel efficiency, and numerous standard features.
They were equipped with a 1.8-liter engine and had a spacious interior with comfortable seats and ample cargo space. In addition, the 2013-2016 models had improved safety features, including rearview cameras and blind-spot monitoring.
2017-2020 Hyundai Elantra
The sixth-generation Elantra was produced from 2016-2020, and the 2017-2020 models are considered the best years. These models featured a sleeker and more sophisticated exterior design and improved fuel efficiency.
They were equipped with a 2.0-liter engine and had a spacious interior with numerous standard features, including a touchscreen infotainment system and a rearview camera.
In addition, the 2019-2020 models had improved safety features, including forward-collision warning and automatic emergency braking.
Years to Avoid for the Hyundai Elantra
While the Hyundai Elantra has had many great years, there are some years that should be avoided due to various issues and problems. Below is a detailed analysis of each year, starting from the oldest to the newest.
1999 Hyundai Elantra
The 1999 model year of the Hyundai Elantra had numerous issues, including faulty engine mounts and electrical problems.
2003 Hyundai Elantra
The 2003 model year of the Hyundai Elantra had several issues, including transmission failure, power steering issues, and faulty airbags. Some owners reported problems with the engine misfiring and stalling while driving.
2009 Hyundai Elantra
The 2009 model year of the Hyundai Elantra had several issues, including problems with the fuel system and the powertrain. Some owners also reported issues with the brakes and suspension, as well as electrical problems with the vehicle’s headlights.
2012 Hyundai Elantra
The 2012 model year of Hyundai Elantra had issues with the vehicle’s transmission, including reports of the transmission failing and needing to be replaced. Some owners reported problems with the vehicle’s steering system and suspension, as well as issues with the electrical system.
2015 Hyundai Elantra
The 2015 model year of the Hyundai Elantra had several issues, including problems with the vehicle’s engine and transmission. Some owners reported issues with the engine stalling or hesitating while driving, as well as problems with the vehicle’s transmission not shifting properly.
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Common Problems With the Hyundai Elantra
While some model years of the Hyundai Elantra have had specific issues, there are also some common problems that owners of the Elantra have reported over the years. Some of the most common problems include:
1. Engine Problems
Some Elantra owners have reported issues with the vehicle’s engine, including problems with the engine stalling or hesitating while driving.
2. Transmission Problems
Transmission failure has been a common issue reported by Elantra owners over the years.
3. Electrical Problems
Some Elantra owners have reported problems with the vehicle’s electrical system, including issues with the headlights and other lighting systems.
4. Suspension and Steering Problems
Issues with the suspension and steering systems have been reported by some Elantra owners, including problems with the vehicle’s alignment and steering.
5. Brake Problems
Some Elantra owners have reported issues with the vehicle’s braking system, including problems with the brakes not working properly or making noise while braking.
Tips for Buying A Used Hyundai Elantra
If you are considering purchasing a used Hyundai Elantra, there are a few tips to keep in mind to ensure that you get a reliable vehicle:
1. Research the vehicle’s history
Before purchasing a used Elantra, be sure to research the vehicle’s history and check for any reported issues or accidents.
2. Have the vehicle inspected
It’s always a good idea to have a used vehicle inspected by a mechanic before purchasing it to ensure that there are no major issues.
3. Check for recalls
Be sure to check for any outstanding recalls on the Elantra you are considering purchasing and have any necessary repairs done before driving the vehicle.
4. Test drive the vehicle
Before purchasing a used Elantra, be sure to take it for a test drive to ensure that it runs smoothly and that there are no major issues with the vehicle.
Which is a better car Sonata or Elantra?
The answer to whether the Sonata or Elantra is a better car depends on individual preferences and needs. The Sonata is a midsize sedan with more space and features, while the Elantra is a compact car with better fuel efficiency.
Is Hyundai Elantra SE or SEL better?
The Hyundai Elantra SEL is generally considered better than the SE model, as it comes with additional features such as blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a larger infotainment display.
Are older Hyundai Elantras reliable?
Older Hyundai Elantras, particularly from the late 2000s and early 2010s, have had some reliability issues. More recent models have improved significantly in terms of reliability and overall quality.
Why is Hyundai Elantras so cheap?
Hyundai Elantras may be cheaper compared to other vehicles due to their relatively low starting price, as well as competition in the compact car market. Hyundai has been able to keep costs low by utilizing efficient manufacturing processes and investing in research and development.
Which is better Hyundai or Nissan?
Whether Hyundai or Nissan is better is subjective and depends on individual preferences and needs. Both companies have a reputation for producing reliable and affordable vehicles.
Is Hyundai Elantras expensive to fix?
Hyundai Elantras are generally not expensive to fix, as they have a reputation for being relatively reliable and requiring fewer repairs compared to other vehicles in their class. However, repair costs may vary depending on the specific issue and the age of the vehicle.
Does a Hyundai Elantra hold its value?
The Hyundai Elantra has a good resale value compared to other vehicles in its class, but it may not hold its value as well as some other vehicles such as the Toyota Corolla or Honda Civic.
What cars are equivalent to a Hyundai Elantra?
Some cars that are equivalent to the Hyundai Elantra include the Toyota Corolla, Honda Civic, Mazda3, and Kia Forte. These are all compact cars that offer similar features and performance to the Elantra.
Conclusion
The Hyundai Elantra has been a popular compact car for many years, with many reliable and efficient model years.
There have also been some problematic years to avoid due to various issues and problems. By following the tips for buying a used Elantra and doing your research, you can ensure that you get a reliable and safe vehicle that will serve you well for years to come.