Is the Hyundai Elantra Reliable?
2001–2026 defect & recall-risk analysis from citable NHTSA data.
The score ranks this model's recall intensity against other sedans — plus systemic-defect concentration and any open federal investigations. It measures defect and recall risk, not long-term mechanical durability, and is deliberately not skewed by how many were sold.
Reliability Score
Own a Hyundai Elantra? Check your specific VIN for a full history report.
Open NHTSA Investigation
hyundai and kia abs module fires
Component: service brakes, hydraulic:antilock/traction control/electronic limited slip:control unit/module
⚠ Historically, 3% of AQ investigations became recalls.
An open investigation is NHTSA reviewing a potential defect — the earliest warning a recall may be coming. It is not a defect finding. See all vehicles under investigation →
Hyundai Elantra Reliability by Year
| Model Year | Recalls | Complaints | Injuries | Deaths | Reliability Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | 2 | 4 | 1 | — | 55 | Fair |
| 2025 | 1 | 33 | 10 | — | 55 | Fair |
| 2024 | 1 | 48 | 2 | — | 55 | Fair |
| 2023 | 2 | 159 | 9 | — | 45 | Fair |
| 2022 | 6 | 130 | 3 | — | 48 | Fair |
| 2021 | 4 | 127 | 2 | 1 | 49 | Fair |
| 2020 | 2 | 169 | 8 | — | 44 | Fair |
| 2019 | 1 | 161 | — | 1 | 47 | Fair |
| 2018 | 0 | 261 | 7 | 1 | 35 | Poor |
| 2017 | 1 | 558 | 12 | — | 30 | Poor |
Reliability scores are proprietary to VinCheckEngine and incorporate multiple weighted safety signals.
How the Elantra Compares to Similar Vehicles
The Elantra scores 27 points below the average sedan. Consider checking years with lower complaint volumes.
Known Hyundai Elantra Reliability Issues
The following components appear most frequently in owner complaints filed with NHTSA:
Based on 1650 owner complaints across recent model years.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Hyundai Elantra reliable?+
The Hyundai Elantra scores 45/100 on our reliability index — rated "Fair." Across 10 recently analyzed model years, it accumulated 20 recall campaigns and 1650 owner complaints in the NHTSA database.
What year Elantra is most reliable?+
Among the years analyzed, the 2026 Elantra achieved the highest reliability score of 55/100 with 2 recalls and 4 complaints.
How many miles does a Elantra last?+
With consistent maintenance, most Hyundai Elantra owners report 150,000 to 200,000+ miles of service life. Checking the VIN of any specific used Elantra will reveal its actual mileage history and any title events.
More Hyundai Elantra Research
Check a Specific Hyundai Elantra VIN
Model-level reliability scores show general trends. A VIN-specific report reveals the exact history of any individual vehicle — accidents, odometer records, auction events, and open recalls.
Run a Free VIN Report →