This page covers 2 recalls, 376 owner complaints and EPA fuel economy for the 2010 Hyundai Elantra.
29 mpg combined
8.1 L/100km
Midsize Cars
Fuel economy data from fueleconomy.gov (EPA / U.S. Dept. of Energy). Annual cost based on 15,000 mi/yr at 55% city driving and current fuel prices. MPG is U.S. gallons; L/100km converted. Ranges reflect the 2 tested variants for this model year.
Steering is by far the dominant complaint theme for the 2010 Elantra, accounting for nearly half of all reports filed. Owners most commonly describe the electric power steering losing assist unexpectedly, the steering wheel becomes stiff and difficult to turn, often accompanied by a warning light on the dash. Many report the issue is intermittent at first, with assist returning after the car is shut off and restarted, but recurring over time and eventually failing to self-correct. Some owners also mention a clunking or grinding noise in the steering column or coupler. Airbags are the second most-reported system, followed by powertrain complaints, though neither approaches the volume of steering reports. The steering loss pattern appears across a wide range of driving speeds, and several owners note being told the electric power steering assist module needs replacement.
376
Total Complaints
43
Crash-Related
9
Fire-Related
35
With Injuries
By System
The 2010 Hyundai Elantra has 2 recalls, the most serious being a moisture intrusion in the anti-lock brake module that can cause an electrical short and start an engine compartment fire, even while the car is parked and off.
The second recall involves the electric power steering control unit, which can detect a false error in its steering input signals and shut off power assist entirely. When this happens, the steering wheel becomes significantly harder to turn, particularly at low speeds, raising the risk of a crash.
At a glance
What can fail
Moisture can enter the Anti-lock Brake (ABS) Module and cause an electrical short.
What the fix does
A relay will be installed in the main junction box to prevent ABS short-circuit when the vehicle is off.
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Complaints are owner-reported and reflect individual experiences, not confirmed defects. They are distinct from recalls. Data sourced from the national vehicle safety complaint database. See trending complaints →
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The electronic power steering control unit may detect conflicting steering input signals and shut off power assist to the steering.
What the fix does
Hyundai will check the power steering system and reprogram the control unit at no cost.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
