2008 Hyundai Accent

The 2008 Hyundai Accent is a subcompact car known for its affordability and fuel efficiency. It’s a popular choice for budget-conscious buyers. The 2008 Accent came with a single engine option: a 1.6-liter inline-4 producing around 110 horsepower and 106 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options include a 5-speed manual and a 4-speed automatic. Owners generally appreciate the Accent’s fuel economy and ease of parking, but often dislike its somewhat basic interior and limited power, especially when loaded with passengers or driving uphill.

Engine

1.6L Inline-4 (G4ED)

• Check Engine Light Due to Faulty Oxygen Sensor
  • Description/Symptoms: The check engine light illuminates. Diagnostic codes often indicate a problem with the oxygen sensor (O2 sensor). This can lead to decreased fuel economy and potentially affect emissions.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty oxygen sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners report that the engine consumes oil at a higher-than-normal rate, requiring frequent top-offs between oil changes. Blue smoke may be visible from the exhaust.
  • Solution: In some cases, a repair or replacement of piston rings or valve seals may be necessary. Monitoring oil levels and topping off as needed is a simpler, though less permanent, solution.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 (topping off) to $1500+ (engine work)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Crankshaft Position Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The engine may stall, run rough, or fail to start. A diagnostic trouble code related to the crankshaft position sensor may be present.
  • Solution: Replacing the crankshaft position sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100-$200
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic

• Harsh Shifting/Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Reports of harsh or delayed shifting, especially between gears. Transmission may slip, causing a loss of power.
  • Solution: In some cases, a fluid change can improve shifting. More severe cases may require transmission repair or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (fluid change) to $2000+ (replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Transmission Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive vibration, clunking noises, or movement in the shifter when accelerating or shifting gears.
  • Solution: Replacement of the transmission mount.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $350
  • Recalls: None Found

5-Speed Manual

• No Issues Found

Suspension

• Worn Struts/Shocks
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, excessive body roll during turns, and longer stopping distances.
  • Solution: Replacing worn struts and/or shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ (for all four)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Broken or Worn Stabilizer Bar Links
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises from the front or rear suspension, particularly when driving over bumps.
  • Solution: Replacing the stabilizer bar links.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100-$300
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Power Window Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows stop working, or move slowly and erratically.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty power window motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Blower Motor Resistor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The HVAC blower motor only works on certain speeds (usually high), or not at all.
  • Solution: Replacing the blower motor resistor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust on Underbody/Wheel Arches
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust formation, particularly in areas exposed to road salt.
  • Solution: Repairing or replacing rusted panels. Rustproofing treatments can help prevent further corrosion.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+ (depending on severity)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Driver’s Seat Belt Retractor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The driver’s seatbelt fails to retract properly or retracts very slowly.
  • Solution: Replacing the seatbelt retractor mechanism.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200-$400
  • Recalls: None Found
• Airbag Warning Light
  • Description/Symptoms: The airbag warning light is illuminated.
  • Solution: This could be from a variety of reasons so take it to a mechanic to have the problem diagnosed
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: Some 2008 Hyundai Accents may be affected by Takata airbag recalls. Look up your VIN to check.
    • Recall Number: 15V871000, 16V392000, 17V004000, 17V512000, 18V048000, 19V739000, 20V010000, 20V081000

Summary

The 2008 Hyundai Accent generally has a mix of minor and moderate issues. Engine-related problems, like oxygen sensor failures and excessive oil consumption, are common. Transmission issues, particularly with the automatic, can be more costly. Suspension wear and tear is also expected. The severity of the issues ranges from inexpensive sensor replacements to more costly engine or transmission work. Checking for airbag recalls is essential.