2018 Hyundai Elantra GT

Here’s a breakdown of common issues and complaints reported by owners of the 2018 Hyundai Elantra GT, organized by category and powertrain configuration, following your specified format.

The 2018 Hyundai Elantra GT is a hatchback version of the popular Elantra sedan, offering more cargo space and sporty handling. It was available with two engine options: a 2.0L naturally aspirated inline-4 producing 161 horsepower and 150 lb-ft of torque, and a 1.6L turbocharged inline-4 (Elantra GT Sport) producing 201 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque. The 2.0L engine could be paired with either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission. The 1.6L turbo engine was available with either a 6-speed manual or a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT). Owners generally praise the Elantra GT for its practicality, handling, and value, but some common complaints involve infotainment glitches and occasional drivetrain issues, particularly with the DCT.

Engine

2.0L Inline-4

• Engine Stalling
  • Description/Symptoms: The engine may stall, especially at idle or when decelerating.
  • Solution: Check and clean the throttle body. In some cases, the Idle Air Control (IAC) valve may need replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

1.6L Turbo Inline-4

• Turbocharger Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported premature turbocharger failure, resulting in a loss of power, excessive smoke, and unusual noises from the engine.
  • Solution: Turbocharger replacement or repair.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $2500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic (with 2.0L Engine)

• Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported occasional harsh or jerky shifting, particularly between lower gears.
  • Solution: A software update of the transmission control module (TCM) may resolve the issue. Fluid flush and fill can help.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

7-Speed Dual-Clutch Transmission (DCT) (with 1.6L Turbo Engine)

• Hesitation/Jerking
  • Description/Symptoms: Hesitation upon acceleration from a stop or low speeds, along with jerky or uneven shifting. The issue is more pronounced in stop-and-go traffic.
  • Solution: Software updates to the Transmission Control Unit (TCU) can sometimes alleviate the issue. In more severe cases, clutch replacement or DCT unit replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300 for software updates, $1500 - $4000+ for clutch/transmission replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Shock Absorbers Premature Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Premature wear or failure of the rear shock absorbers, leading to a bouncy ride, reduced handling, and clunking noises from the rear suspension.
  • Solution: Replacement of the rear shock absorbers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Glitches
  • Description/Symptoms: Freezing, crashing, slow response, and Bluetooth connectivity problems with the infotainment system.
  • Solution: Software updates to the infotainment system. Sometimes a full system reset or replacement of the head unit is needed.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (software update) - $1000+ (head unit replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: The battery drains quickly, especially if the car is not driven for a few days.
  • Solution: Check for parasitic draws from aftermarket accessories. Replace the battery with a higher-quality one if necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• No Issues Found

Interior

• Driver’s Seat Squeaking
  • Description/Symptoms: The driver’s seat may develop squeaks or creaks, especially when the driver shifts their weight.
  • Solution: Tighten the seat mounting bolts or lubricate the seat tracks and springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 - $100
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2018 Hyundai Elantra GT, especially the GT Sport trim with the 1.6L turbo engine and DCT, can present some owners with notable issues. The DCT’s drivability quirks and potential for more serious failures are a concern. Electrical issues like infotainment glitches are common. Suspension issues are not unheard of. Engine issues with the 2.0L are not very common, and when they do happen, they are typically not very severe. Repair costs vary widely, with DCT and turbocharger replacements being the most expensive. Potential buyers should have a thorough inspection performed, focusing on the transmission’s behavior, and ensure all available software updates have been applied.