2013 Hyundai Elantra Steering Problems

My fiance and I, bought the vehicle in May 2022? from Carvana. His name is [XXX] . Mine is [XXX] (maiden - [XXX] ) Price. [XXX] passed away August 6, 2025. I wanted to mention this part before I explain the problem. His son is supposed to sign the car over to me as soon as court proceedings are finished. I love the car. But the car came from Carvana with 17K miles. It currently has 42,000K miles on it. I only drive it around town. I live in Tulsa, Oklahoma. The city is notorious for pot holes. However, I do not think this is a pot hole issue. Around December 2025, the car steering wheel started shaking vigorously. When we purchased the vehicle, the right CV axle was needing to be replaced. Now, I am not sure what the problem is, but I hate to have to trade the car in. This was my VERY first Hyundai experience, and I want to keep the car for forever, because of my fiance. But I may have to trade her in. I have come to a few conclusions on my own. 1) tires - so I had them replaced. 2) warped brake rotors 3) worn suspension components 4) worn electric steering column coupler. I wanted to give you the VIN because since it is an older vehicle (but like new to me), it may have had a recall. I do not want to keep this vehicle if it is a problem. But I also do not want to give it to anyone else since my fiance bought it for me. TO whome this may concern - if you happen to actually read these "complaints" could you give me a call at [XXX] [XXX] ) or my email: [XXX] [XXX] [XXX] I would honestly like to know if this is a huge issue with the car. At least that way I can prepare myself to sell it. I am overall very pleased with the car, except this issue is a big one, and [XXX] is not here to guide me into a decision with it. Thank you kindly, [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ID

11740407

Incident

Dec 31, 2025

The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Elantra. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the steering wheel became inoperable. The contact stated that a cushion located within the steering wheel had deteriorated, causing the steering wheel to become difficult to turn. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed that the steering coupler cushion within the steering wheel had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The dealer was contacted; however, the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 50,000. The VIN was not available.

NHTSA ID

11698950

Incident

Nov 12, 2025

Mileage

50,000 mi

The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Elantra. The contact stated that the steering wheel made clicking sound while turning to the left or the right. While driving at speeds of 55 MPH or higher, the steering wheel vibrated abnormally. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was not taken to be diagnosed or repaired. The contact was referred to the NHTSA Hotline by a mechanic to report the failure. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.

NHTSA ID

11697254

Incident

Nov 3, 2022

The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Elantra. The contact stated that there was a lot of play in the steering wheel, and the steering wheel moved back and forth with no resistance while the vehicle was being driven or while idling. There was a loud clunking noise coming from the steering column while turning the steering wheel to the left or the right. The vehicle was taken to a certified mechanic, who diagnosed that the steering column flexible coupler had failed and caused the wheels to not respond correctly while turning the steering wheel. The contact was informed that the steering column flexible coupler needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 51,000.

NHTSA ID

11695819

Incident

Aug 15, 2025

Mileage

51,000 mi

My steering wheel has been shaking and having a clunking sound when I accelerate over 60 miles, go over any bumps, and turn. I had my mechanic diagnose it and I was told the steering coupler was bad. I did some research to see if it was a recall and it wasn't. Then I saw on Hyundai.com then I could check my VIN and verify if my vehicle qualified for the extended warranty for this issue. My vehicle qualified however after contacting customer service directly to verify, they advise me my vehicle did not qualify because of being over 100,000 miles. Prior to contacting them I saw that they had a statement saying that this issue was not safety related. I didn't believe that to be correct because my mechanic told me otherwise, and information I saw regarding Google searches said the opposite. Also, my own experience whenever that shaking of my steering wheel occurs I literally have to use both of my hands to control it. Therefore I believe it is a safety issue that absolutely needs to be revisited as being such. I was advised on that call to take it to the dealership and have them diagnose it and advise headquarters directly however I made it clear that I did not want to have to incur a diagnostic fee when the initial diagnostic I had was free and I have the estimate breakdown from my mechanic. And I did not believe that there should be any diagnostic fee for a safety concern. I did advise them that I was going to contact NHTSA and advised them of this circumstance in order for it to be reviewed.

NHTSA ID

11689688

Incident

May 1, 2025

In the last month I started to hear a clicking sound when turning my steering wheel in either direction. I am told that this is a frequent problem with Hyundai Elantra and is caused by a flexible coupling breaking. I brought my Elantra to the dealer to take cre of some other recalls but was told that the coupling problem is not a recall issue. I do have a Technical Service Bulletin from Hyundai on this issue and feel that since it happens frequently on the Elantra, it should be covered by the dealer or Hyundai corporate. Please advise as I cannot afford to pay for this repair as I am on disabilty with limited income.

NHTSA ID

11687638

Incident

Jul 23, 2025

The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Elantra. The contact stated that while starting the vehicle, the steering wheel was very loose. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the contact was forced to grip the steering wheel with force with the front of the vehicle abnormally shaking. The contact depressed the brake pedal and the shaking of the front of the vehicle increased. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where the vehicle was diagnosed, and the contact was advised that the steering rack was faulty and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 97,501.

NHTSA ID

11670358

Incident

May 28, 2025

Mileage

97,501 mi

2013 Elantra coupe se.The car wanders on the highway like a boat constantly left and right all over the lane and if/when you hit a dip or bump it REALLY throws the car around! There's Obviously issues with the suspension on a MULTITUDE of these model/year vehicles if not ALL of theml. It is VERY dangerous and needs to be addressed and recalled. I do not have an alignment issue as the tires brakes rotors and calipers are all new no dragging /pulling etc and the tires are properly pressured as well. Extremely well maintained car by the owner EXTREMELY poorly Engineered by the Maker! The steering coupler has been replaced also taking the play out of the wheel as those things are a small rubber "cog wheel" that wears completely to nothing causing severe play and a clunking noise in the wheel between the turning of left or right as that component acts as a spacer/gear/vibration absorber between the steering shaft and the steering assist helper motor gears these cars ALSO were sold knowing they were piston slap engines yet Still never issued a recall until YEARS and multi millions of complaints later only to only cover certain years and models yet they All had the same engine. Imagine the IDIOCY! I will NEVER purchase a Hyundai or a Kia EVER again rest assured! I do my research and homework on every potential item I'm looking into possibly getting yet Nowhere at the time was there any info regarding they were piston slap engines turning these out by the multi millions and trying to hide the fact until they no longer could. Disgustingly Sad that they do not stand behind there product!

NHTSA ID

11636901

Incident

Jan 19, 2025

My steering wheel is making.a clunking noise and I called Hyundai and informed them and they told me the extended warranty has expired since last year. Lots of Hyundai 2013 consumers complained about this issue and it’s an expensive fix. Please advice [XXX] [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ID

11621603

Incident

Oct 23, 2024

On Saturday September 14, 2024 After working a full shift i started my 2013 Hyundai ELANTRA and the ecs light came on. which locks your power of steering. After several restarts to disengage the light. I called the tow truck pay the $80 for it to be brought to the dealership and was told that they can work on it on Tuesday. On Monday I received a phone call on stating I will be paying $3000 out-of-pocket.Even tho I have extended warranty nothing would be covered.

NHTSA ID

11615164

Incident

Sep 14, 2024

Steering has become loose and unsafe due to coupler malfunction. Unable to control wheels while driving and clicking noise while turning.

NHTSA ID

11606522

Incident

Jun 19, 2024

The steering wheel clicks and feels loose when it moves. The repair is to replace the Steering Coupler a piece of plastic for $5 but it will cost $300 or more for my mechanic since it is a 2-3 hour job. This should be replaced by the Dealer for free since the part is made to wear out and be defective

NHTSA ID

11602937

Incident

Jul 17, 2024

The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Elantra. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the steering wheel was loosened, and felt as if the steering wheel would detach. No warning lights were illuminated. The contact believed that the failure was a manufacturing defect and took the vehicle to a local dealer; however, no assistance was provided. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 116,000.

NHTSA ID

11593904

Incident

Feb 15, 2024

Mileage

116,000 mi

The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Elantra. The contact stated while driving 20 MPH, the contact became aware that the steering wheel was making a loud rattling sound. There was no warning light illuminated. The dealer was contacted; however, the vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 113,000.

NHTSA ID

11593463

Incident

Jun 10, 2024

Mileage

113,000 mi

I heard a noise and felt a pull when turning the steering wheel while the car was stationary or at low speeds. AAA said there was a recall and Hyundai would repair at no cost. The dealer stated I had a defective steering flexible coupler. If I did not replace, it could disintegrate in the steering column. I was told Hyundai extended the warrantee to 10 years or 100,000 miles. My 2013 car is 11 years old with 63,000 miles. The cost of the repair was $657.68. This is a safety issue with lots of complaints. This should be a recall. I want to be reimbursed for this manufacturing defect.

NHTSA ID

11585565

Incident

Apr 18, 2024

The bulbs are constantly blowing out, and need to be replaced. The steering wheel/column makes noises, and doesn't always lock, but when it does lock, it can be difficult to unlock it! The suspension shakes and rattles. There is a campaign for the corrosion of the undercarriage/suspension, that I was not aware of until a few weeks ago(I do have an appointment for that). The most pressing concern is with the steering(mechanic thinks it could be the coupler), and there are numerous complaints about this on various internet auto forums.

NHTSA ID

11584643

Incident

Apr 1, 2024

Faulty steering column issue

NHTSA ID

11579555

Incident

Mar 13, 2024

Steering wheel makes a thud or clicking noise when you turn the wheel. I was told that this is caused by the power steering coupling gear is worn. In my mind if a gear is wearing, it will eventually wear smooth. If this happens, I can only assume that you would no longer be able to steer the car. Hyundai has a service bulletin [XXX] ) out to address this problem, but they say that there is no steering performance issue. My personal mechanic does not agree with that assessment. Hyundai fixed this problem on my other Hyundai Elantra while it was under warranty. I have an appointment with the dealer this week to fix the steering, for an estimated $450. I cannot believe this is not a safety issue. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ID

11578271

Incident

Aug 9, 2023

The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Elantra. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle pulled to the left continuously. The contact stated that the vehicle was shaking while depressing the accelerator pedal. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 120,800.

NHTSA ID

11575273

Incident

Feb 21, 2024

Mileage

120,800 mi

I’m having issues with braking and steering and I have made complaints to Hyundai and they have failed me they brush it off as though I need a new car but there are dangerous issues with this car. I also notified Hyundai Corporate Office on several occasions and a case manager by the name of Jose didn’t help at all nothing was resolved he only left voice messages and nothing was done.

NHTSA ID

11574974

Incident

Oct 20, 2023

Every time my steering wheel is moved slightly, It makes a clicking/clunking sound. It has progressed overtime while driving and an inspection cannot be passed due to it. I know many people whose Hyundais have been recalled because of this exact thing, and mine is not telling it is.

NHTSA ID

11567853

Incident

Jul 18, 2023

Steering is making a squeaky noise. Went to Hyundai dealership and they confirmed steering coupler needs replacement. This is a manufacturer’s fault. Driving is dangerous as steering gets free sometimes while driving.

NHTSA ID

11564287

Incident

Jan 8, 2024

The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Elantra. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the contact stated while attempting to make a turn, the steering wheel seized and the vehicle crashed into a curb. The contact stated that her daughter occupied the front passenger seat of the vehicle. The contact stated that the passenger side front tire hit the curb and the tire was damaged. The vehicle was undrivable, the vehicle was towed to the contact's residence. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and a case was filed. The failure mileage was approximately 89,205.

NHTSA ID

11561103

Incident

Dec 18, 2023

Mileage

89,205 mi

My vehicle i have issue with Steering Rubber Coupling which is bad and a safety concern for me. K contacted the Hyundai Motors and they declined the service. Just like me there tons of Hyundai Vehicles owners experience the same problem.

NHTSA ID

11557233

Incident

Nov 19, 2023

The steering coupler failed, causing the tires to turn back and forth (oscillate) while the driver held the steering wheel steady. The vehicle went out of control and spun out on wet pavement. The driver could feel the steering wheel go thunk-thunk-thunk back and forth, as the servomotor for the electric power steering system went out of control. The failed coupler is between the servomotor and the power steering rack. The free play from the defective steering coupler allows the electric power steering system to turn the tires WITHOUT any input from the steering wheel or driver, causing the vehicle to become unstable and spin out. Hyundai has a TSB on this issue [XXX] , but Hyndai says that this issue is a non-safety clunk noise. FALSE. This is a safety issue where the electric power steering system turns the tires (wheels) back and forth WITHOUT driver input. This causes the vehicle to become unstable, almost killing my wife. This IS a NHTSA safety issue, not a noise complaint. Hyundai falsely classified this problem as a noise issue, not a safety issue. This is a known defect that is falsely classified as a non-safety issue, escaping a NHTSA recall notice. This is a safety issue where the steering becomes unstable as the servomotor goes crazy due to the extra play or slop in the failed coupler. The safety issue is unrecoverable on wet or snowy pavement. On dry pavement it is annoying and unstable. This issue is also very dangerous and causes oversteer (spin outs) when the wheels hit an expansion joint at an angle. The vehicle oscillates and spins out, as the electric power steering system becomes unstable. It is terrible. This TSB needs to be reclassified properly as a safety recall. Thank you. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ID

11557022

Incident

Nov 27, 2023