2007 Hyundai Elantra

2007 Hyundai Elantra

Overview

The 2007 Hyundai Elantra, a compact sedan, offered a generally reliable ownership experience for its segment. It was praised for its fuel efficiency and comfortable ride, making it a popular choice for budget-conscious buyers. While not without its minor quirks, the Elantra’s overall mechanical and electrical systems proved to be fairly robust for its model year. Owners typically reported satisfaction with its day-to-day usability, though some specific components did show a propensity for issues as the vehicle aged. This data focuses on documented common problems beyond routine maintenance.

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Engine

2.0L DOHC I4 (Beta II)

Oil Leaks

• Symptoms: Visible oil spots under the vehicle, burning oil smell, low oil level.
• Solution: Replacement of leaking seals (e.g., valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, crankshaft seal).
• Cost: $150 - $400

Timing Belt Failure

• Symptoms: Sudden engine shutdown, rough running, engine misfires, no-start condition.
• Solution: Replacement of timing belt, tensioner, and idler pulleys. If failure occurred, potential engine damage may require more extensive repairs.
• Cost: $400 - $800

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic

Harsh Shifting / Delayed Engagement

• Symptoms: Jerking or clunking when shifting gears, hesitation when shifting into Drive or Reverse.
• Solution: Transmission fluid and filter change, transmission control module (TCM) reset, or potential internal transmission repairs.
• Cost: $200 - $1200

5-Speed Manual

No Major Issues

• Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
• Solution: No widespread issues reported.
• Cost: No widespread issues reported.

Suspension

Standard Chassis

Worn Ball Joints / Tie Rod Ends

• Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises over bumps, vague steering, uneven tire wear.
• Solution: Replacement of worn ball joints and/or tie rod ends.
• Cost: $300 - $600

Sagging Rear Springs

• Symptoms: Rear of the vehicle sits lower than normal, poor handling when loaded.
• Solution: Replacement of rear coil springs.
• Cost: $250 - $500

Electrical

Body Control Module (BCM)

Intermittent Electrical Failures

• Symptoms: Malfunctioning power windows, door locks, interior lights, or dashboard warning lights.
• Solution: Diagnosis and potential reprogramming or replacement of the Body Control Module.
• Cost: $400 - $800

Alternator

Premature Failure

• Symptoms: Dimming headlights, battery warning light illuminated, difficulty starting, dead battery.
• Solution: Replacement of the alternator.
• Cost: $300 - $600

Exterior

Body Panels & Paint

Clear Coat Peeling

• Symptoms: Fading or peeling paint, especially on the roof and hood.
• Solution: Repainting affected areas.
• Cost: $500 - $2000+

Headlight Lenses

Clouding / Hazing

• Symptoms: Yellowed or foggy headlight lenses reducing light output and visibility.
• Solution: Headlight restoration kit or replacement of headlight assemblies.
• Cost: $50 - $300

Interior

HVAC Blower Motor

Blower Motor Failure

• Symptoms: No air coming from vents, or air only coming from certain vents, regardless of fan speed setting.
• Solution: Replacement of the HVAC blower motor and resistor.
• Cost: $200 - $400

Seat Fabric

Excessive Wear / Pilling

• Symptoms: Fabric on driver’s seat showing significant wear, pilling, or thinning.
• Solution: Seat cover installation or professional upholstery cleaning/repair.
• Cost: $50 - $300

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Summary Verdict

The 2007 Hyundai Elantra is a reasonably reliable vehicle, particularly for its price point. Common issues tend to be related to aging components such as oil leaks from seals, potential timing belt concerns, and wear in suspension parts like ball joints and tie rods. Electrical gremlins, often stemming from the BCM or alternator, can also arise. Exterior paint and interior fabric wear are also noted. However, for owners who address these potential issues proactively, the Elantra can continue to provide dependable transportation. The manual transmission variant is generally considered more robust than the automatic.