2006 Hyundai Accent

Introduction

The 2006 Hyundai Accent is a subcompact sedan available with a choice of two engines: a 1.6-liter inline-four or a 2.0-liter inline-four. The 1.6-liter engine produces 104 horsepower and 103 lb-ft of torque, while the 2.0-liter engine produces 130 horsepower and 133 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options include a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic.

The Accent is praised for its fuel efficiency, affordability, and maneuverability. However, it has also received criticism for its lackluster performance, cramped interior, and low-quality materials.

Engine

1.6-Liter Inline-Four

• Intake Manifold Gasket Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, engine overheating, loss of engine power
  • Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Head Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: White smoke from exhaust, coolant leaks, loss of coolant
  • Solution: Replace head gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

2.0-Liter Inline-Four

• Timing Chain Tensioner Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine rattling noise, loss of power, check engine light
  • Solution: Replace timing chain tensioner
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

Five-Speed Manual

• Clutch Disc Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, slipping clutch, burning smell
  • Solution: Replace clutch disc
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Four-Speed Automatic

• Transmission Fluid Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Leaking transmission fluid, slipping gears, delayed shifting
  • Solution: Replace transmission fluid seals
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Strut Mounts
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noise from front suspension, uneven tire wear
  • Solution: Replace strut mounts
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Shock Absorbers
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, poor handling, excessive body roll
  • Solution: Replace rear shock absorbers
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming lights, battery drain, warning light
  • Solution: Replace alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Starter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty starting engine, clicking noise
  • Solution: Replace starter motor
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Doors won’t lock/unlock, rattling noise from door
  • Solution: Replace door lock actuator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Climate Control Panel Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Buttons not working, incorrect temperature settings
  • Solution: Replace climate control panel
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Window Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Windows won’t go up/down, grinding noise
  • Solution: Replace power window motor
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2006 Hyundai Accent is a budget-friendly car with some notable issues. The most severe and costly issues involve the engine, such as head gasket failure and timing chain tensioner failure. Transmission issues are also common, including clutch disc failure and transmission fluid leaks. However, the electrical, suspension, exterior, and interior components have relatively minor problems that are generally less expensive to fix. Overall, the Accent’s reliability has been average, with some owners experiencing significant problems while others have had relatively trouble-free ownership.