Car Yearsto Avoid

Hyundai Elantra Years to Avoid

Every Elantra model year ranked by owner complaints filed with NHTSA, with recalls and the top problem for each year.

Updated Oct 17, 2026.

Which Elantra years should you avoid?

The 2013, 2017 and 2012 Elantra have the most NHTSA complaints. Adjusted for how long each year has been on the road, the 2009, 2008 and 2022 models have the fewest problems.

Complaints by model year

Total complaints. Newer years have had less time on the road, so their totals will keep climbing.

2013 Elantra 1,314
2017 Elantra 768
2012 Elantra 653
2011 Elantra 433
2014 Elantra 386
2010 Elantra 380
2008 Elantra 314
2016 Elantra 293
2018 Elantra 283
2015 Elantra 262
2009 Elantra 254
2020 Elantra 253
2019 Elantra 251
2021 Elantra 132
2022 Elantra 102
2023 Elantra 99
2024 Elantra 54

Every year at a glance

YearComplaintsPer yearRecallsTop problem
2024 54 18 1 Electrical
2023 99 25 2 Electrical
2022 102 20 5 Seat Belts
2021 132 22 6 Emergency Braking
2020 253 36 3 Engine
2019 251 31 1 Engine
2018 283 31 0 Engine
2017 768 77 4 Engine
2016 293 27 2 Engine
2015 262 22 3 Engine
2014 386 30 2 Engine
2013 1,314 94 4 Brakes
2012 653 44 4 Engine
2011 433 27 5 Engine
2010 380 22 3 Steering
2009 254 14 4 Steering
2008 314 17 7 Steering

"Per year" divides complaints by the years since that model year went on sale, so new and old years compare fairly. Highlighted rows have the most complaints.

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Common questions

What is the worst year for the Hyundai Elantra?

The 2013 Elantra, with 1,314 complaints. Its most reported problem area is the brakes.

What is the best year for the Hyundai Elantra?

Among years with at least three years of owner reports, the 2009 Elantra has the fewest complaints per year on the road.

Which Hyundai Elantra years should I avoid?

Be most careful with the 2013, 2017 and 2012 models. Check service records and recall work before buying.