2017 Hyundai Veloster
The 2017 Hyundai Veloster is a quirky and sporty hatchback known for its unique 2+1 door configuration. It offered a blend of practicality and style that appealed to a diverse range of drivers. Engine options included a 1.6L naturally aspirated inline-4 producing around 132 horsepower and 120 lb-ft of torque, and a 1.6L turbocharged inline-4 generating approximately 201 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options varied depending on the engine and trim level, and consisted of either a 6-speed manual, 6-speed automatic, or a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT). Many owners appreciated the Veloster’s distinctive design and agile handling. Common complaints centered around the ride quality, which some found to be stiff, and occasional reports of specific engine and transmission issues.
Engine
1.6L Naturally Aspirated Inline-4
- Engine Knocking/Piston Slap
- Description/Symptoms: Knocking or rattling noise, especially during cold starts or acceleration. May indicate excessive piston-to-cylinder wall clearance or connecting rod issues.
- Solution: Inspection by a qualified mechanic to determine the source of the noise. May require piston replacement or engine rebuild in severe cases.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $5,000+
- Recalls: None Found
1.6L Turbocharged Inline-4
- Turbocharger Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, unusual noises from the turbocharger, check engine light. Could be caused by oil starvation or mechanical failure.
- Solution: Diagnosis to determine the extent of the damage. Replacement of the turbocharger is usually necessary.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Excessive Oil Consumption
- Description/Symptoms: Noticeably lower oil levels between oil changes, blue smoke from the exhaust.
- Solution: Diagnosis to determine the root cause. May require piston ring replacement or valve seal repair.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $4,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
6-Speed Automatic
- Harsh Shifting/Slipping
- Description/Symptoms: Rough gear changes, hesitation when accelerating, transmission slipping out of gear.
- Solution: Check transmission fluid level and condition. May require a transmission flush or valve body repair. In severe cases, a transmission rebuild or replacement may be necessary.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $3,500+
- Recalls: None Found
7-Speed Dual-Clutch Transmission (DCT)
- Hesitation/Jerky Engagement
- Description/Symptoms: Delay when starting from a stop, jerky or uneven acceleration, especially in lower gears.
- Solution: Software update or DCT clutch replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300-$2,500+
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Rear Shock Absorber Leaks/Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, excessive body roll during turns, visible leaks on the shock absorbers.
- Solution: Replacement of the rear shock absorbers.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Battery Drain
- Description/Symptoms: Dead battery, difficulty starting the car, especially after it has been sitting for a while.
- Solution: Inspection of the electrical system to identify the source of the drain. Common culprits include aftermarket accessories, faulty relays, or a failing alternator.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
- Recalls: None Found
- Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
- Description/Symptoms: Infotainment screen freezing, unresponsive buttons, system crashing and restarting.
- Solution: Software update, or replacement of the infotainment unit.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100-$1,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Sunroof Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise, difficult to open or close, or leaks.
- Solution: Inspection, cleaning, lubrication, or replacement of damaged components.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100-$800+
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Dashboard Cracking
- Description/Symptoms: Cracks appearing on the dashboard surface, typically in areas exposed to direct sunlight.
- Solution: Replacement of the dashboard or application of a dashboard cover.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2017 Hyundai Veloster, while known for its unique styling, has been reported to have a range of issues, the most severe being engine-related, particularly with the turbo models. These issues can be costly to fix. Transmission problems, especially with the DCT, can also be a concern. Other issues, such as suspension, electrical and interior issues are less severe and are often cheaper to repair.