2006 Hyundai Elantra

The 2006 Hyundai Elantra is a compact sedan known for its fuel efficiency and affordability. The Elantra came standard with a 2.0-liter inline-4 cylinder engine producing approximately 138 horsepower and 136 lb-ft of torque. All engines were mated to either a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission. Owners typically appreciate the Elantra’s value for money and its spacious interior for a compact car. Common complaints often revolve around the car’s somewhat bland styling and some reports of reliability issues as the vehicles age.

Engine

2.0L Inline-4 (G4GC)

• Check Engine Light due to Catalytic Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The check engine light illuminates, and diagnostic codes related to catalytic converter efficiency (P0420) are stored. The car may experience reduced fuel economy and possibly fail emissions testing.
  • Solution: Replacement of the catalytic converter is required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Engine Knocking/Pinging
  • Description/Symptoms: A knocking or pinging sound is heard from the engine, especially under acceleration. This can be caused by carbon buildup in the combustion chambers.
  • Solution: A top engine cleaning to remove carbon deposits or using higher-octane fuel.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks may develop from the valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, or crankshaft seal. This can result in a burning oil smell, low oil levels, and stains on the driveway.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking gasket or seal.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $300+ per leak
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic (A4CF1)

• Rough Shifting/Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: The transmission may shift roughly, hesitate, or slip between gears. This can be caused by low transmission fluid, worn clutch packs, or a failing valve body.
  • Solution: A transmission fluid flush, valve body repair, or a full transmission rebuild/replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (fluid flush) - $2500+ (rebuild/replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Delayed Engagement
  • Description/Symptoms: A delay in engagement may occur when shifting into drive or reverse. This can be caused by low transmission fluid or internal transmission damage.
  • Solution: Check and top off transmission fluid or, if the problem persists, rebuild/replace the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (fluid top-off) - $2500+ (rebuild/replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Worn Struts/Shocks
  • Description/Symptoms: Bumpy ride, excessive bouncing after bumps, poor handling, and uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replacement of the worn struts/shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ for a set
  • Recalls: None Found
• Broken or Worn Sway Bar Links
  • Description/Symptoms: A clunking or rattling noise from the front suspension, especially when going over bumps or turning.
  • Solution: Replacement of the worn sway bar links.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+ per link
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Failed Window Regulator
  • Description/Symptoms: Window fails to roll up or down.
  • Solution: Replacement of the window regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150-$300+ per window
  • Recalls: None Found
• Failed Door Lock Actuator
  • Description/Symptoms: Door fails to lock or unlock with the remote or door switch.
  • Solution: Replacement of the door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100-$250+ per door
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust can develop on the body panels, especially in areas prone to salt exposure.
  • Solution: Body repair and rust removal.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies greatly depending on the severity of the rust.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Cracked Dashboard
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracking of the dashboard material, particularly in hot climates, is common.
  • Solution: Dashboard replacement or cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Broken Sun Visors
  • Description/Symptoms: The sun visors can become loose or break at the hinge.
  • Solution: Replacement of the sun visor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $150+ per visor
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2006 Hyundai Elantra, while affordable and fuel-efficient, is prone to several issues as it ages. Engine problems like catalytic converter failure and oil leaks are common, as are transmission issues like rough shifting. Suspension components such as struts/shocks and sway bar links are also subject to wear and tear. Electrical issues, like window regulators and door lock actuators are reported. Rust is a common issue, especially in colder climates. Interior problems include cracked dashboards and broken sun visors. While most of these issues are not catastrophic, they can add up over time. Repair costs vary depending on the specific issue, but can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand for major repairs like transmission replacements.