2016 Hyundai Elantra

Here’s a breakdown of common issues and complaints reported for the 2016 Hyundai Elantra, categorized and formatted as requested. The 2016 Hyundai Elantra is a compact car known for its value, fuel efficiency, and comfortable ride. Engine options included a 1.8L inline-4 producing 145 horsepower and 130 lb-ft of torque, and a 2.0L inline-4 producing 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque. Both were typically paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission, though a 6-speed manual was available on some trims. Owners often appreciate the Elantra’s affordability and features for the price, but some common complaints include the engine issues and some transmission problems.

Engine

1.8L Nu MPI Inline-4

• Engine Knocking/Tickling Noise
  • Description/Symptoms: Owners report hearing knocking or ticking noises coming from the engine, especially during cold starts or acceleration. This could be a sign of piston slap or rod knock.
  • Solution: Diagnosis by a qualified mechanic to determine the exact cause. Could involve replacing connecting rod bearings, pistons, or even engine replacement in severe cases.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $5,000+ (depending on severity and required repairs)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Drivers are having to frequently top off their engine oil as it is being used at a higher rate than normal.
  • Solution: Start with an oil consumption test, if the car is consuming oil at a high rate, the cause of the oil consumption must be determined. Valve seals, piston rings, and the PCV valve are common culprits.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $3,000+ (depending on the required repairs)
  • Recalls: None Found

2.0L Nu MPI Inline-4

• Engine Stalling
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported engine stalling, often occurring at low speeds or when idling. The engine may restart after a few attempts.
  • Solution: The likely cause is a faulty Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor, or a problem with the idle air control valve.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic

• Harsh Shifting/Jerking
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported experiencing harsh or jerky shifting, particularly between certain gears. The transmission may also hesitate when accelerating.
  • Solution: Start with a transmission fluid change, or, if the problem is more severe, replace the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $3,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Transmission Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Owners have reported that the transmission slips when accelerating, especially between gears 2 and 3. The engine revs higher than normal while the car fails to gain speed.
  • Solution: Replace or rebuild the transmission, making sure to replace the faulty torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Suspension Noise
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises coming from the rear suspension, especially when going over bumps. This is often caused by worn-out rear shock absorbers or sway bar links.
  • Solution: Inspect and replace worn suspension components, such as shock absorbers, sway bar links, and bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Owners have reported issues with the battery draining quickly, even when the car is not in use. This can be caused by parasitic drain from faulty electronics or a failing alternator.
  • Solution: Perform a parasitic draw test to identify the source of the drain. Replace faulty components, such as the alternator, or repair wiring issues.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Multimedia/Radio Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent failures of the infotainment system, including freezing, reboots, or lack of response to touch inputs.
  • Solution: Software updates, replacement of the head unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Headlight Condensation
  • Description/Symptoms: Moisture buildup inside the headlight housings, which can reduce visibility and potentially damage the headlight bulbs.
  • Solution: Remove the headlight assembly and dry it out thoroughly. Reseal the headlight housing to prevent further moisture intrusion. In some cases, headlight replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracking or splitting of the dashboard, especially in areas exposed to direct sunlight.
  • Solution: Dashboard replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2016 Hyundai Elantra, while offering good value and fuel economy, does have some common issues to be aware of. Engine knocking and oil consumption can be serious and costly to repair. Transmission issues, while not universally reported, can also lead to expensive fixes. Electrical problems like battery drain and infotainment system failures can be frustrating. The severity of these issues ranges from minor inconveniences to major repairs, with potential costs ranging from a few hundred dollars to several thousand. Potential buyers should carefully inspect the vehicle’s maintenance history and consider a pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic to identify any existing problems.