2013 Hyundai Elantra GT

The 2013 Hyundai Elantra GT is a hatchback version of the popular Elantra sedan, offering increased cargo space and a sportier driving experience. The Elantra GT came equipped with a 1.8-liter inline-4 cylinder engine, producing approximately 148 horsepower and 131 lb-ft of torque. It was available with either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission. Many owners appreciated the Elantra GT’s fuel efficiency, agile handling, and generous standard features for its price point. Common complaints often revolved around the sometimes harsh ride quality, road noise, and the relatively uninspiring acceleration despite the decent horsepower numbers.

Engine

1.8L Inline-4 (Nu Engine Family)

• Engine Knocking/Ticking Noise
  • Description/Symptoms: Owners report a knocking or ticking noise, especially on cold starts or under acceleration. This can be caused by excessive connecting rod bearing wear.
  • Solution: Replacement of the connecting rod bearings. In severe cases, engine replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+ (depending on the extent of damage and repair needed).
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive oil consumption requiring frequent top-ups between oil changes.
  • Solution: The PCV valve can sometimes cause this issue if it is faulty. More severe cases may require piston ring replacement or engine replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Harsh Shifting/Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Reports of harsh or jerky shifting between gears, especially during acceleration or deceleration. Some owners also experience transmission slipping.
  • Solution: Some owners have had success with transmission fluid changes (using the correct Hyundai-specified fluid). In other cases, valve body replacement or a full transmission rebuild/replacement is necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $3,000+ (depending on severity).
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Shock Absorber Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Premature failure of the rear shock absorbers, leading to a bouncy or unstable ride, especially over bumps.
  • Solution: Replacement of the rear shock absorbers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Knocking/Clunking Noises
  • Description/Symptoms: The sway bar end links can become worn out over time, causing knocking or clunking noises from the front suspension, especially when going over bumps or turning.
  • Solution: Replacement of the sway bar end links.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: The battery drains quickly, especially if the car sits for a few days. Could be caused by the parasitic drain of the car.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty part in the vehicle.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Faulty Tail Lights
  • Description/Symptoms: Tail lights malfunctioning, not illuminating, or dimming.
  • Solution: Replacement of the tail light assembly or individual bulbs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50-$150+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Airbag light on
  • Description/Symptoms: Airbag light comes on indicating an issue with the system, which could be a faulty sensor, clockspring, or other component.
  • Solution: Diagnosis by a qualified mechanic and repair/replacement of the faulty part.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Headlight Condensation
  • Description/Symptoms: Moisture accumulating inside the headlight housings.
  • Solution: Replacement of the headlight assembly. In some cases, resealing the headlight housing might be a temporary fix.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found
• Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Door locks failing to lock or unlock.
  • Solution: Replacement of the door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof motor failure, leaks, or getting stuck.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the sunroof motor, weather stripping replacement, or adjustment of the sunroof mechanism.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2013 Hyundai Elantra GT is generally a reliable vehicle, but owners have reported some common issues. The engine issues, such as knocking noises and excessive oil consumption, can be potentially severe and costly to repair. Transmission problems and suspension issues can affect the driving experience and safety. Electrical problems can cause further inconvenience. Potential buyers should be aware of these potential problems and consider having a pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified mechanic. While some issues are minor, others, like engine problems, can lead to significant repair bills.