2013 Hyundai Elantra Engine Problems

I was wondering if you can help me. I have a Hyundai Elantra that had a recall for my engine to get fixed by the dealership. I’ve never got it fixed because I was unaware of a Hyundai letter that i just found on the internet that was issued by them but I never received it. I went to a mechanic the other day and he informed me that they had a recall for my engine. The problem is now that Hyundai gave a date that expired on the recall. I was wondering if you can send them a demand letter or something because I was never contacted about this. I also had a brain tumor operation and Hyundai should grant me with a medical exemption. Here’s the Hyundai notice that they never gave me,

NHTSA ID

11743363

Incident

Jun 10, 2026

My mother's vehicle caught fire while in park and it’s listed under a fire-risk recall. Another car got damage with the fire. I want to open a claim.

NHTSA ID

11730096

Incident

Apr 7, 2026

My vehicle has a piston slap ticking issue and Hyundai will not help me fix this because it’s a common issue by Hyundai.

NHTSA ID

11729557

Incident

Apr 6, 2026

A significant engine failure occurred while driving, presenting as loud knocking from the engine. The issue developed without prior warning lights or messages. The vehicle was inspected by a dealership and the problem was confirmed as internal engine failure (piston slap/engine knock). The dealership recommended full engine replacement. The engine is available for inspection upon request. There was no evidence of sludge or lack of maintenance noted during inspection. The most recent oil change had been performed less than 1,000 miles prior to the failure, indicating the issue was not caused by lack of maintenance. This condition creates a safety concern due to the potential for sudden engine failure, loss of power, or engine seizure while driving, which could increase the risk of an accident, especially at highway speeds. The issue has been confirmed by a dealership and has not been repaired due to cost.

NHTSA ID

11729406

Incident

Mar 3, 2026

While driving on an interstate on March 12, 2026, the engine stopped working requiring that the car be pulled over to the side of the road. There were no indications of issues as oil had been regularly changed, and the battery and tires were replaced in fall of 2025. The check engine and oil lights all flashed at the time of the incident, not before. Fortunately, we were able to pull over to the side of the highway, and a tow truck brought the car to a service center. The initial diagnosis was that the seal on the crankcase failed. The service center, and now the Hyundai dealer, do not know the cause of this catastrophic damage that may result in the need for a full engine replacement.

NHTSA ID

11727071

Incident

Mar 12, 2026

The vehicle has developed a pronounced knocking noise that was diagnosed by your authorized dealership as “piston slap.” I was informed by dealership staff that this is a known issue with this vehicle. However, because the vehicle is outside of warranty by time and mileage, I was told no repair assistance would be provided. My primary concern is safety. While there are currently no warning lamps illuminated, the engine is producing a consistent knocking noise. If this condition progresses to piston or engine failure while the vehicle is in operation, it could cause sudden loss of power or engine seizure. Such a failure at highway speeds or in traffic could create a serious accident risk to myself and others. Additionally, I was charged one hour of diagnostic labor, despite the dealership immediately recognizing the noise as piston slap without needing further testing. This raises concern that: The issue is well-known, The condition was identifiable without extensive diagnosis, Yet I was still billed for a full diagnostic hour. Given that this is acknowledged as a known issue, I am requesting: A formal review of this case by your product safety and quality department. Clarification on whether this condition has been the subject of technical service bulletins, extended coverage programs, or internal advisories. Consideration of goodwill repair assistance due to the potential safety implications. Reimbursement of the diagnostic charge, as no true diagnostic procedure appears to have been required. Written confirmation that continued operation of the vehicle in its current condition does not present a safety risk. I am prepared to provide service records, invoices, and any additional documentation needed. Given the potential safety implications, I respectfully request a response within 48 hours. I am hopeful the manufacturer will stand behind the safety and reliability of its product and address this matter promptly.

NHTSA ID

11720191

Incident

Feb 9, 2026

A system in the Engine that allows for oil to sit and burn. UNKOWN A Mechanic shop that I go to regularly stated that this has been a known issue that has been going on for the past 12 years. Along side when I bought the car I was told that the engine is usually louder then most cars, this has been the general consensus. Personally with my car no, having done research outside of just my car: UNKNOWN there were no warning lamps, messages, or other symptoms of the problem. I was first told about this issue during the 2nd week of February of 2026, With the oil change paperwork of when I found out about the issue

NHTSA ID

11718111

Incident

Feb 10, 2026

[XXX] is subject to Safety Recall 20V-755 Hyundai Recall 251 for a defective ABS module that may leak brake fluid, cause an electrical short, and increase the risk of an engine compartment fire. The recall remains open and has not been performed. On Feb 2, I brought the vehicle to McGovern Hyundai of Arlington and disclosed an active brake fluid leak consistent with Recall 251. I also stated that brakes were recently replaced 4 weeks ago. The service advisor incorrectly said the recall was just for a fuse and unrelated to brake fluid. The dealership drove the car for a state inspection despite knowing about the leak and open recall. They stated the brakes are bad and requested payment for a diagnostic, which I declined. No diagnostic testing was performed. The dealership informed me the required ABS module part was unavailable and instructed me to return Friday, waiting 3 5 business days. The recall repair was not completed, and no towing or alternate transportation was offered. The dealership invoice documents the incomplete repair. I live in East Boston, MA, a densely populated urban area with street parking. If the defect causes a fire, it could endanger nearby vehicles, residences, and public safety. I am filing this complaint to document the unprepared safety defect, dealership misinformation, and ongoing community fire risk. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ID

11715202

Incident

Feb 2, 2026

Vehicle Issue Description for NHTSA Complaint: Component/System Failure: The engine of my 2013 Hyundai Elantra (VIN: [insert VIN]) completely failed at 51,000 miles. The alternator also failed and had to be replaced. There was a persistent smell of gasoline inside and outside the vehicle, creating a fire hazard. All components are available for inspection upon request. Safety Risk: The engine failure left the vehicle completely inoperable. The gas smell created a serious fire hazard and caused me to experience health issues, requiring an ER visit. The combination of engine malfunction, electrical issues, and fuel leaks posed a risk to my safety and the safety of others while driving. Confirmation by Dealer / Mechanic: Independent mechanics inspected the vehicle and confirmed the engine failure and alternator issues. Multiple mechanics advised not to drive the car due to the fire hazard. The original selling dealer (Larry H. Miller Toyota) inspected the car and acknowledged engine problems in writing on a business card. Inspection by Manufacturer / Others: Hyundai corporate has been notified, but they declined warranty coverage as the vehicle is a second-owner car and beyond the original warranty. The dealer has also been made aware of the engine failure. Warning Lamps / Symptoms: No warning lamps indicated imminent engine failure prior to the engine dying. The first symptoms were mechanical issues, gas smell, and eventual total engine failure. Alternator failure and repeated maintenance issues occurred within 8 months of purchase. Additional Notes: Vehicle purchased at 34,000 miles; engine failed at 51,000 miles. Independent repair receipts, ER paperwork, are available to support the case.

NHTSA ID

11702831

Incident

Aug 1, 2025

I was driving and my car just shut down. Thank goodness I was only in a drive thru because my car was still in gear. I got it restarted and it was making a terrible noise. I took it to hyandai where they told me that I had a piston slap. Hyandai corporate knows that this is a problem. I am lucky to have not been on the highway it could have caused serious injury or death to me or anyone around me. Hyandai corporate should replace the engine that they know is bad or if someone has had it replaced they should be reimbursing. Them. It's dangerous the 1.8l 4-cylinder nu engine.

NHTSA ID

11702038

Incident

Aug 6, 2025

My engine has a piston slap. I have the 1.8l 4cy nu engine. It causes the car to stall unexpectedly creating a potential for serious accidents.

NHTSA ID

11697517

Incident

Oct 20, 2025

On August 9, 2025, my 2013 Hyundai Elantra suffered catastrophic engine failure while driving. The engine seized, creating immediate danger on the road. This vehicle is under NHTSA Recall 23V651000 (Hyundai Recall 251), which warns of fire/engine compartment risks both while parked and driving. Hyundai denied my claim, citing a vendor report that found “no thermal damage” to the ABS wiring. However, the dealer’s inspection confirmed internal engine failure with thermal damage, and I directly witnessed flames. The recall does not require ABS wiring itself to burn , it covers the broader safety hazard of fire and failure, which is exactly what occurred. In addition, Hyundai tried to shift blame onto owner maintenance. Their own recall language acknowledges failures occur due to the defect, not neglect. Furthermore, the handling by Hyundai’s case managers was unacceptable: my case was transferred without notice, calls were ignored, and I was left without clear instructions or remedy while my vehicle was disabled. I have attached the denial letter, the dealer report, the recall notice, and proof of maintenance. I request NHTSA review Hyundai’s mishandling of this recall obligation and require them to provide remedy and compensation

NHTSA ID

11684638

Incident

Aug 9, 2025

My 2013 Hyundai Elantra with the 1.8L Nu engine suffered catastrophic engine failure. A mechanic found metal shavings in the oil and diagnosed a failed connecting rod bearing. The Hyundai dealership quoted $10,000 for a new engine and refused warranty coverage because I am over 120,000 miles, even though this is a well-documented defect. Hyundai issued TSB 22-EM-007H covering rod bearing wear in this engine, and there have been class actions and warranty extensions for similar failures. This failure creates a safety hazard, as the engine can seize or stall suddenly while driving, increasing risk of an accident. I request NHTSA investigate this known defect in the 1.8L Nu engine, as it poses a safety risk to myself and others.

NHTSA ID

11683682

Incident

Aug 1, 2025

After the recall at Hyundai, my car wouldn't run and there were many lights on the dashboard. It was later checked and the instability light problem persisted. They fixed on the same time, and say something problem with the update. They later informed me that I have a problem with the brake switch, and the brake lights don't work because of it. I replaced and doesn’t work, I went back to the store and they want me to pay a fee to have it analyzed again. Even though before the recall, the lights and the car were working perfectly.

NHTSA ID

11681766

Incident

Aug 16, 2025

This seems to be a very common and serious issue with Hyundai vehicles. 2013 Hyundai Elanta, believed to be a frequent crankshaft position sensor issue. When driving the car, they vehicle will feel that it is losing power. When coming to a stop the engine will idle so low that it feels like it will stall or it does stall. The tachometer registered zero RPM's, even when accellearting. Attempting to accelerate up any incline and the car can not provide enough power. Sometimes the car will crank up, other times it will require time to restart. The car has stalled and low power idling multiple times, but it did happen in the middle of a 4 way intersection twice, and when the issue is present. Although we've been fortunate, no accidents have occurred, it is very unsafe for the owner and other drivers. This occurrence has happened several times over the past year. Two times it was immediately brought into the dealer service, the second time it did stall with the service member there. Both times they were unable to diagnose the problem and stated no error codes were reported. You have already issued a Recall for this same issue with a different model. Oct. 13, 2017 – Hyundai Motor America has recalled more than 400 vehicles potentially equipped with defective crankshaft assemblies, according to documentation submitted to the National Transportation Safety Administration. There are so many others that have reported this same issue and have been corrected with the replacement of the crankshaft position sensor. [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ID

11673718

Incident

Jul 7, 2025

The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Elantra. The contact stated that while driving at approximately 30-40 MPH, there was an abnormal tapping sound coming from the vehicle. While the vehicle was parked, the tapping sound continued. The engine and ABS warning lights were illuminated. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V651000 (Service Brakes, hydraulic); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The dealer determined that a software update was needed. The dealer informed the contact they were waiting on a technician. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue and opened a case. The failure mileage was approximately 170,000. Parts distribution disconnect.

NHTSA ID

11646771

Incident

Aug 16, 2024

Mileage

170,000 mi

The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Elantra. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle stalled and lost motive power. The contact stated that the vehicle was restarted. The vehicle was driven to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed with piston failure. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.

NHTSA ID

11633166

Incident

Dec 30, 2024

My engine is ticking. The auto shop told me that my motor is shot and the same thing happened to my sons car. We both have the same car same year. There has been a law suit for this issue.

NHTSA ID

11629824

Incident

Sep 6, 2023

I was never informed through mail, email, or phone call about a potential fire hazard safety recall from Hyundai. In turn, due to my unawareness of the recall, my 2013 Elantra’s ABS pump had caught on fire, melted into the control module, and melted the ABS electrical harness to the module, short circuiting the ECU and starter as well.

NHTSA ID

11619075

Incident

Oct 8, 2024

The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Elantra. The contact stated that while her son was driving at an undisclosed speed, the brake pedal became loose while depressing and the steering wheel was abnormally stiff. An unknown warning light illuminated. In addition, the driver saw an abnormal amount of smoke coming from under the hood and had inhaled smoke while attempting to exit the vehicle. The vehicle caught on fire moments later when the driver safely exited the vehicle. The local fire department arrived on the scene and extinguished the fire. No police report was filed. The driver sustained minor injuries but no medical attention was required. The vehicle was towed to an insurance lot for further investigation. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 133,000.

NHTSA ID

11617715

Incident

Aug 28, 2024

Mileage

133,000 mi

I was driving down a busy highway when my car decided to die I pulled into the turning lane cause that was the closest thing to me I turned my car off and went to turn it back on in hopes that it would just fire back up and smoke went rolling from my engine. I ended up having to contact a tow truck along with an officer to block the road come to find out my engine was completely blown, I contacted the service department along with warranty services and everything and nobody is willing to assist with this issue. Apparently This is an ongoing issue with Hyundai cars.

NHTSA ID

11604723

Incident

Jul 20, 2024

The engine of my 2013 Hyundai Elantra GT failed due to a known piston-slap issue, and it is available for inspection for a limited time before being sold to a junkyard. This failure occurred suddenly while I was on the highway, putting my safety and the safety of others at risk as I had to maneuver the car to the side of the road amidst heavy traffic. The problem has been confirmed by both the Hyundai dealership and an independent service center, who diagnosed the piston-slap issue and found the engine filled with sludge, a known issue with these engines. Despite having 28 documented service records and regular oil changes, Hyundai denied the warranty claim, citing engine neglect. Hyundai representatives have inspected the vehicle and provided a technical bulletin documenting this defect. Prior to the failure, there were no warning lamps, messages, or other symptoms indicating a problem with the engine.

NHTSA ID

11600819

Incident

May 19, 2024

While pulling out onto a major main road, my car just stopped. The RPM's remained on zero after I restarted the car. I had to get it towed. The engine light was on, and it had trouble restarting. The code read camshaft. The mechanic replaced the camshaft and no other codes registered. It shut off two times after the camshaft was replaced. I took it back to the mechanic and it shut off on him 5 times. This car is unsafe. I am afraid to drive it, especially with have a young child.

NHTSA ID

11595618

Incident

Jun 4, 2024

My car had trouble starting then shut off while driving. Engine light was on and the RMP's stayed at zero. Code was for camshaft. Camshaft was replaced and the car shut off three more times while driving. I only have 83,000 miles on my car.

NHTSA ID

11594306

Incident

Jun 4, 2024

I took my car into Hyundai due to the recall sent out to car owners. I had my ABS and Brake light that went on randomly around September. I scheduled an appointment and took it in to get it checked. Hyundai sent me away stating there were no parts to fix the issue and told me to pay for a diagnostic if I needed it looked at and to wait until the recall is remedied. Two months later my car exploded and caught fire while parked on my property putting my life and home at risk. As well as my neighbors lives who came in to help me Put out the fire.

NHTSA ID

11591542

Incident

May 13, 2024