2002 Hyundai Elantra

The 2002 Hyundai Elantra is a compact car known for its affordability and fuel efficiency. It came standard with a 2.0-liter inline-4 engine producing approximately 140 horsepower and 133 lb-ft of torque. The Elantra offered a choice between a 5-speed manual transmission and a 4-speed automatic transmission. Owners often appreciate the Elantra’s value and fuel economy, while common criticisms include its basic interior and somewhat lackluster handling.

Engine

2.0L Inline-4 (G4GC)

• Crankshaft Position Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine stalls intermittently, check engine light illuminates with a code related to the crankshaft position sensor.
  • Solution: Replace the crankshaft position sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $150+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Idle Air Control (IAC) Valve Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Erratic idle speed, engine stalls at idle, especially when cold.
  • Solution: Clean or replace the IAC valve.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $80 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oxygen Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light comes on, poor fuel economy, engine hesitates.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty oxygen sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic

• Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough or jerky shifts between gears, especially 1st to 2nd and 2nd to 3rd.
  • Solution: Fluid flush and filter change. If the problem persists, internal wear of the transmission components may require a rebuild or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $250+ for fluid flush; $1500 - $3000+ for rebuild/replacement
  • Recalls: None Found
• Transmission Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine revs without corresponding acceleration, difficulty maintaining speed on inclines.
  • Solution: Fluid flush and filter change. If the problem persists, internal wear of the transmission components may require a rebuild or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $250+ for fluid flush; $1500 - $3000+ for rebuild/replacement
  • Recalls: None Found

5-Speed Manual

• No Issues Found

Suspension

• Strut Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noise from the front suspension, especially when going over bumps. Reduced ride comfort.
  • Solution: Replace the strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ per pair
  • Recalls: None Found
• Worn Ball Joints
  • Description/Symptoms: Clicking or popping noise when turning the steering wheel, uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replace the worn ball joints.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+ per ball joint
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Power Window Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Window operates slowly or not at all.
  • Solution: Replace the power window motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery warning light on, dimming headlights, difficulty starting the vehicle.
  • Solution: Replace the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust formation, especially around the wheel wells, rocker panels, and undercarriage.
  • Solution: Rust repair or panel replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+ (highly variable depending on severity)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks appearing on the dashboard surface, especially in hot climates.
  • Solution: Dashboard replacement (expensive) or dashboard cover installation.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $100+ for a cover; $500 - $1500+ for replacement
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2002 Hyundai Elantra, while generally reliable for its age, exhibits some common issues. Engine-related problems often involve sensor failures and idle control issues, while transmission problems can range from harsh shifting to slippage, especially with the automatic. Suspension issues manifest as noises and handling problems. Electrical faults can involve window motors and alternator failure. Rust is a concern, especially in areas with road salt, and dashboard cracking is a common cosmetic issue. The severity and cost of repairs vary, with rust repair and transmission rebuilds being the most expensive potential issues.