1999 Hyundai Elantra

Introduction

The 1999 Hyundai Elantra is a compact sedan that was available with two engine options: a 1.6-liter inline-4 and a 1.8-liter inline-4. Both engines were paired with a 5-speed manual transmission or a 4-speed automatic transmission. The Elantra was praised for its affordability, fuel efficiency, and spacious interior, but it was criticized for its lack of power and poor handling.

Engine

1.6-Liter Inline-4

• Head gasket failure: Symptoms include coolant leaks, overheating, and white smoke from the exhaust. The solution is to replace the head gasket. Estimated cost: $1,000 - $2,000+. Recalls: None found.
• Intake manifold gasket failure: Symptoms include vacuum leaks, loss of power, and rough idling. The solution is to replace the intake manifold gasket. Estimated cost: $500 - $1,000. Recalls: None found.

1.8-Liter Inline-4

• Timing belt failure: Symptoms include a loud screeching noise, loss of power, and engine damage. The solution is to replace the timing belt and related components. Estimated cost: $500 - $1,500+. Recalls: None found.
• Valve cover gasket leak: Symptoms include oil leaks from the valve cover. The solution is to replace the valve cover gasket. Estimated cost: $200 - $500. Recalls: None found.

Transmission

5-Speed Manual Transmission

• Synchronizer failure: Symptoms include difficulty shifting gears, especially into second or third gear. The solution is to replace the synchronizer. Estimated cost: $500 - $1,000. Recalls: None found.
• Clutch failure: Symptoms include slipping gears, difficulty engaging gears, and a burning smell. The solution is to replace the clutch. Estimated cost: $800 - $1,500+. Recalls: None found.

4-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Transmission fluid leak: Symptoms include low transmission fluid levels, slipping gears, and no power. The solution is to replace the transmission fluid and inspect for leaks. Estimated cost: $200 - $500. Recalls: None found.
• Solenoid failure: Symptoms include erratic shifting, delayed shifts, and transmission overheating. The solution is to replace the solenoid. Estimated cost: $300 - $800. Recalls: None found.

Suspension

• Strut failure: Symptoms include excessive noise, bouncing, and poor handling. The solution is to replace the struts. Estimated cost: $500 - $1,000 per axle. Recalls: None found.
• Suspension bushing failure: Symptoms include excessive noise, vibration, and poor handling. The solution is to replace the suspension bushings. Estimated cost: $200 - $500 per axle. Recalls: None found.

Electrical

• Alternator failure: Symptoms include dim headlights, flickering lights, and a dead battery. The solution is to replace the alternator. Estimated cost: $500 - $1,000+. Recalls: None found.
• Starter failure: Symptoms include difficulty starting the vehicle, clicking noises, and no power. The solution is to replace the starter. Estimated cost: $300 - $800+. Recalls: None found.

Exterior

• Door panel fading: Symptoms include discoloration and fading of the door panels. The solution is to replace the door panels. Estimated cost: $200 - $500 per door. Recalls: None found.
• Headlight yellowing: Symptoms include cloudy or yellowed headlights. The solution is to restore or replace the headlights. Estimated cost: $100 - $300 per headlight. Recalls: None found.

Interior

• Window motor failure: Symptoms include inoperable windows, slow-moving windows, and noisy windows. The solution is to replace the window motor. Estimated cost: $200 - $500 per window. Recalls: None found.
• Dashboard cracking: Symptoms include cracks in the dashboard. The solution is to replace or repair the dashboard. Estimated cost: $500 - $1,000+. Recalls: None found.

Summary

The 1999 Hyundai Elantra has several potential issues, including head gasket failure, timing belt failure, suspension bushing failure, alternator failure, and window motor failure. These issues can be costly to repair, ranging from $200 to over $2,000 in some cases. While the Elantra is a generally reliable vehicle, owners should be aware of these potential problems and have their vehicle inspected regularly to prevent major repairs.