Summary
The Hyundai Elantra has 61 recalls spanning the 1992 through 2026 model years; the most serious recent issue affects 2021–2022 models, where the front seatbelt pretensioners can explode in a crash and send metal fragments into the cabin, striking occupants. The same pretensioner explosion risk applies across 2021 and 2022 Elantra and Elantra Hybrid trims, including both driver and passenger sides depending on the specific model year.
Two other current-era recalls are worth close attention. On 2025 Elantra N and 2026 Elantra models, B-pillar side impact sensors may have been misassembled, delaying airbag deployment in a crash. On 2024 models, a faulty exhaust gas recirculation valve can short circuit and cut power to the wheels without warning. The 2021–2023 Elantra Hybrid has a software defect in the motor control unit that can cause the vehicle to accelerate after the brake pedal is released. On 2021 models, seat back recliners may have been improperly welded and can pull away from the seat frame in a crash, and 2022 models have a steering wheel airbag cover emblem that can break free and become a projectile when the airbag inflates.
Going back into the mid-to-late 2010s, 2019–2021 models with the 2.0L engine have piston oil rings that can cause engine damage, stalling, or oil igniting on hot exhaust components. The 2017 model has two related issues: a brake booster diaphragm that can unseat and eliminate power brake assist, and a damaged electric power steering connector that can suddenly increase steering effort. A separate 2017 recall addresses a front airbag that may fail to inflate in a crash.
From the 2011–2015 era, the anti-lock brake control module can overheat and cause an engine compartment fire whether the vehicle is parked or moving, affecting 2011–2015 models. The 2011–2012 Elantra has an electronic stability control sensor that can misfire, unexpectedly applying brakes to individual wheels and cutting engine power. On 2011 models registered in northern salt-belt states, front coil springs can corrode and fracture, potentially puncturing a tire. The 2013–2014 models have a brake pedal stopper pad that can deteriorate, leaving brake lights continuously illuminated and masking actual braking to following drivers.
The 2007–2009 generation carries a passenger seat weight sensor that can misread a child seat as an adult and allow the front passenger airbag to deploy in a crash when it should be suppressed. On 2008 models, the electric power steering can suddenly lose assist, and the fuel pump can fail and stall the engine.
The 2004 model has a fuel vapor tube hose clamp that can face the wrong direction and puncture the tank in a collision, creating a fuel leak and fire risk. That same year's passenger seat sensor can misidentify a child seat as an adult occupant, potentially deploying the airbag toward a child. On 2001 models, rear brake tubes can contact steering gearbox mounting brackets, wear through, and leak fluid, reducing braking. Front lower control arms on 2001 models in salt-belt regions can corrode internally and fracture, causing loss of vehicle control.
Earlier production has several isolated issues: the 1999
