NHTSA (USA)CriticalPark Outside
At a glance
What can fail
The Anti-Lock Brake System module may leak brake fluid internally and cause an electrical short, potentially starting a fire in the engine compartment.
This page covers 4 recalls, 1313 owner complaints, NHTSA crash-test ratings and EPA fuel economy for the 2013 Hyundai Elantra.
31–32 mpg combined
7.4–7.6 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 4 tested variants for this model year.
5/5 Overall
NHTSA 5-Star Safety Rating
For the 2013 Hyundai Elantra, steering and engine complaints make up the bulk of what owners report. Steering is the top concern, with owners describing the wheel feeling like it's locking up or resisting input, sometimes alongside a lit check engine light. Several reports tie steering issues to subframe problems, with some owners mentioning underbody corrosion as a contributing factor. Engine complaints are the second-largest group, with owners reporting loud knocking noises, some of which appeared at relatively low mileage. Hydraulic brake complaints round out the top three, with owners describing reduced stopping performance or changes in pedal feel. The steering and engine complaint volumes are notably high for this model year, and the subframe/corrosion connection appears across multiple steering reports rather than as an isolated incident.
1,313
Total Complaints
93
Crash-Related
30
Fire-Related
48
With Injuries
By System
The 2013 Hyundai Elantra has 4 recalls, the most serious being a risk of engine compartment fire that can occur whether the vehicle is parked or being driven.
The fire risk stems from the anti-lock brake control module, which can ignite nearby components under certain conditions. A separate structural concern involves the headliner support bracket: during a side curtain airbag deployment in a crash, this bracket can shift out of position and strike an occupant, causing a laceration. Two recalls address the same brake pedal stopper pad defect, which can deteriorate over time and leave the brake light switch in a permanently extended position even after the driver lifts their foot off the pedal. When this happens, the brake lights stay on continuously, making it impossible for drivers behind to tell when the car is actually slowing down, which raises the risk of a rear-end collision.
At a glance
What can fail
The Anti-Lock Brake System module may leak brake fluid internally and cause an electrical short, potentially starting a fire in the engine compartment.
We may earn a commission for purchases made through these links.
Ratings from NHTSA's New Car Assessment Program (NCAP). Based on 2 tested variants; worst-case ratings shown.
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 →
What the fix does
The ABS fuse will be replaced at no cost to restore normal brake system function.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The brake pedal stopper pad can wear away, causing the brake light switch plunger to stay extended when you release the pedal. This keeps brake lights on continuously and lets you shift gears or activate engine brake override without pressing the brake pedal.
What the fix does
Dealers will replace the brake pedal stopper pad at no cost to you.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The brake pedal stopper pad can wear down, causing the brake light switch plunger to stay extended when you release the brake pedal.
What the fix does
Dealers will replace the brake pedal stopper pad with an improved part at no cost.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The support bracket holding the headliner can shift out of place when the side curtain airbag deploys.
What the fix does
Dealers will apply adhesive strips to the headliner to secure the bracket in position.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.