2021 Hyundai Elantra

The 2021 Hyundai Elantra is a popular compact sedan praised for its fuel efficiency, modern styling, and extensive list of standard features. However, like any vehicle, it has its share of reported issues. The Elantra offers a few different engine and transmission options. The most common is the 2.0L inline-4 engine which produces 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque and is paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). Some owners appreciate the Elantra’s value for money and comfortable ride, while others express concerns about the CVT’s performance and some reported reliability issues.

Engine

2.0L Inline-4 (Nu Engine)

• Engine Stalling
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine stalls unexpectedly while driving, especially at lower speeds or when idling. This can be a safety hazard.
  • Solution: Dealership inspection to diagnose the cause. Potential fixes include software updates to the engine control unit (ECU) or replacement of faulty sensors (crankshaft position sensor, camshaft position sensor).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (depending on the root cause).
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)

• Harsh Shifting/Jerking
  • Description/Symptoms: The CVT transmission may exhibit harsh or jerky shifting, especially during acceleration or deceleration. This can be accompanied by unusual noises.
  • Solution: Software update for the transmission control module (TCM). In more severe cases, the CVT may need to be rebuilt or replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500 (software update), $3,000 - $8,000 (CVT replacement).
  • Recalls: None Found
• Transmission Failure/Delayed Engagement
  • Description/Symptoms: Delayed engagement of the transmission when shifting from Park to Drive or Reverse. Transmission may fail to engage altogether, leaving the vehicle immobile.
  • Solution: Complete CVT replacement
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $8,000.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment screen freezes, becomes unresponsive, or crashes entirely. This can affect navigation, audio, and other vehicle functions.
  • Solution: Software update for the infotainment system. If the issue persists, the infotainment unit may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (software update), $500 - $1500+ (infotainment unit replacement).
  • Recalls: None Found
• Backup Camera Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The backup camera image is distorted, flickering, or does not display at all.
  • Solution: Check the camera connection. If the connection is secure, the camera may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Cracked Windshield
  • Description/Symptoms: Windshield cracks easily from small impacts.
  • Solution: Windshield replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Reflection
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive glare from the dashboard reflected onto the windshield, especially in bright sunlight, obstructing the driver’s vision.
  • Solution: Apply a matte dashboard cover or tint the upper portion of the windshield.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $20 - $100.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2021 Hyundai Elantra has a few common issues reported by owners. The most concerning relate to the CVT transmission, with reports of harsh shifting, delayed engagement, and even outright failure, with repair costs potentially reaching thousands of dollars. Electrical issues with the infotainment system and backup camera are also fairly common, though generally less costly to address. While some exterior and interior issues exist, they are less frequent and impactful than the transmission problems. The severity of these issues can range from minor inconveniences to major mechanical failures, and the cost to fix them can vary widely.