RoadVitals

2023 Hyundai Elantra Problems

Owner-reported complaints filed with NHTSA, grouped by component

Data refreshed

Owner complaintsComplaints are reports submitted to NHTSA by owners and drivers. NHTSA does not verify most reports before publishing them, and a complaint does not establish that a defect exists. Volume is influenced by how many of a vehicle were sold, how long it has been on the road, and how much attention an issue has received.
92
Latest Aug 10, 2026
Components namedHow many of our component categories appear on at least one report for this model year. One report can name several.
13
Crash or fire reportedComplaints whose submitter recorded that a crash or a fire occurred. These are the reporter's own answers on the NHTSA form, not verified findings.
8

What this page shows

Everything below is an owner-reported complaint submitted to NHTSA about the 2023 Hyundai Elantra, grouped by the component NHTSA recorded on the report. These are not confirmed defects, and they are not recalls. NHTSA does not verify most reports before publishing them, and a category with more reports in it is not evidence that a part is defective.

Complaints are reports submitted by owners and drivers to NHTSA. They are not verified and do not establish that a defect exists.

Reports by component

Ranked by how many owner reports name each component category

Percentages are of component mentions. A single complaint can name more than one component, so these do not sum to the total complaint count.

Each component in detail

What the reports in each category say, in the owners' own words

Driver assistance

Reports naming forward-collision avoidance, lane keeping, back-over prevention, cruise control and related electronic driver-assistance systems.

27
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

While driving on [XXX] north near exit [XXX] in rain, at 70 mph Adaptive Cruise Control and Lane Keeping Assistance were on. The vehicle displayed a warning that the smart systems were disabled. The vehicle then began jerking and changing lanes and speed unexpectedly. The steering wheel pulled/jerked forcefully to the left and right and I had difficulty maintaining control of the vehicle. When I attempted to brake, the brake pedal became very hard and could not press down the vehicle did not slow normally. I was able to get the vehicle onto the shoulder and shut it off. After restarting the vehicle, the problem occurred again. The vehicle was towed to Wallace Hyundai dealership in Stewart Florida and is currently being diagnosed. The cause has not yet been determined. Scared me to death. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ID 11755848 · filed Aug 10, 2026

The contact owns a 2023 Hyundai Elantra. The contact stated that while slowly pulling into the parking space the contact lifted off the brake pedal and while costing into the parking space the vehicle experienced unintended acceleration and drove over a curb. During the incident the vehicle sustained damage to the undercarriage. No injuries were reported. The vehicle was later towed to the local dealer who was unable to determine the cause of the fialure. The manufacturer was nofited of the incident. An engineer was scheduled to inspect the vehicle. No further information was available. During the incident the contact suffered emotional stress and fear. The failure mileage was 30,000.

NHTSA ID 11736932 · filed May 11, 2026
All 27 reports naming driver assistance

Electrical

Reports naming the electrical system — wiring, battery, charging, control modules, infotainment and electrical accessories.

22
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

The horn is intermittenly failing and was verified by a Weimer Hyundai in Morgantown, WV on XXX. This is a known defect in 2023 Hyundai Elantras and they have issued an extended warranty to address the problem. An absence of a horn is a safety issue as you cannot signal other drivers in emergency situations. It is unlawful to have a horn that does not operate in most states including WV ([XXX]) which is where I currently reside. While a horn is not required by NHTSA , if it is present it must be operable by driver (Safety Standard No. 101, 49 CFR '571.101). For these reasons I am requesting that this should have and should be considered a SAFETY RECALL which is NOT predicated on mileage. By issuing an extended warranty that stops at 120,000 miles Hyundai does not serve those with higher mileage vehicles. It is not fair for a driver to have to pay out of pocket for a KNOWN DEFECT that should have absolutely been addressed as a SAFETY RECALL. Hyundai has been contacted and I was given a case #42976455 and a case manager named Edward. Weimer was incontact with either him or Hyundai directly and they offered to split the cost of $600.00 intead of taking full responsibility. I have no full time job and cannot pay anything (nor should I have to) for a safety issue. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ID 11753112 · filed Jul 27, 2026

Electrical component with car has been malfunctioning. ADAS system malfunctioning (all the lights on the dash have been coming on in and out at different times) despite turning the car on and off. Video and picture evidence has been collected on different days and times this issue has been happening. Blinkers do not work when this is happening. Concerned for safety while driving. Hyundai Dealership is not helping and blowing me off.

NHTSA ID 11728976 · filed Apr 3, 2026
All 22 reports naming electrical

Engine

Reports naming the engine itself — including stalling, misfires, oil consumption, cooling and internal engine components.

17
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

I purchased a 2023 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid 2023 on December 15, 2023, and since early ownership I have experienced persistent jerking/clunking while slowing to a stop, harsh downshifts, hesitation during braking, and rough transitions between electric and engine power. The issue was first documented around 5,744 miles and continued through approximately six to eight repair/work orders, where dealerships repeatedly described the condition as normal hybrid/DCT behavior while performing software resets, adaptive relearns, and diagnostic checks. After continued complaints, Hyundai Techline became involved and the dealership concluded the vehicle “jerks pretty bad,” leading to a full transmission replacement under warranty. Despite the transmission replacement, the issue persisted and the dealership later confirmed slight clunking during downshifts and discovered a torn engine mount, which was also replaced. The dealership additionally noted that the issue did not occur while driving another Elantra Hybrid or the loaner vehicle, suggesting the condition was specific to my vehicle. I also opened a case with Hyundai Motor America Consumer Affairs regarding the recurring defect and repeated failed repair attempts, but the issue continues despite major drivetrain repairs. Hyundai Motors America Consumer Affairs has not been able to help me with this either. They also didn't provide me with the Federal Agency number when I requested them in order to reach out and seek help from the agencies. Hyundai didn't help me in any way. There were no warnings. They have been able to reproduce the issue but do not want to resolve the issue. I strongly believe no vehicle is designed in a way that it jerks and downshifts in a harsh manner causing distress to the driver/owner.

NHTSA ID 11738642 · filed May 18, 2026

The contact owns a 2023 Hyundai Elantra. The contact stated that while the vehicle was at a full stop, the brake pedal was released, and the vehicle surged forward before the accelerator pedal was depressed. The contact stated that the failure was intermittent. There were no warning lights illuminated. The contact had taken the vehicle to a local dealer, who was unable to duplicate the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 15,000.

NHTSA ID 11731508 · filed Apr 16, 2026
All 17 reports naming engine

Powertrain (other)

Powertrain reports that are not specifically the engine or transmission — driveshafts, axles, transfer cases and differentials.

9
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

I purchased a 2023 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid 2023 on December 15, 2023, and since early ownership I have experienced persistent jerking/clunking while slowing to a stop, harsh downshifts, hesitation during braking, and rough transitions between electric and engine power. The issue was first documented around 5,744 miles and continued through approximately six to eight repair/work orders, where dealerships repeatedly described the condition as normal hybrid/DCT behavior while performing software resets, adaptive relearns, and diagnostic checks. After continued complaints, Hyundai Techline became involved and the dealership concluded the vehicle “jerks pretty bad,” leading to a full transmission replacement under warranty. Despite the transmission replacement, the issue persisted and the dealership later confirmed slight clunking during downshifts and discovered a torn engine mount, which was also replaced. The dealership additionally noted that the issue did not occur while driving another Elantra Hybrid or the loaner vehicle, suggesting the condition was specific to my vehicle. I also opened a case with Hyundai Motor America Consumer Affairs regarding the recurring defect and repeated failed repair attempts, but the issue continues despite major drivetrain repairs. Hyundai Motors America Consumer Affairs has not been able to help me with this either. They also didn't provide me with the Federal Agency number when I requested them in order to reach out and seek help from the agencies. Hyundai didn't help me in any way. There were no warnings. They have been able to reproduce the issue but do not want to resolve the issue. I strongly believe no vehicle is designed in a way that it jerks and downshifts in a harsh manner causing distress to the driver/owner.

NHTSA ID 11738642 · filed May 18, 2026

The contact owns a 2023 Hyundai Elantra. The contact stated that while the vehicle was at a full stop, the brake pedal was released, and the vehicle surged forward before the accelerator pedal was depressed. The contact stated that the failure was intermittent. There were no warning lights illuminated. The contact had taken the vehicle to a local dealer, who was unable to duplicate the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 15,000.

NHTSA ID 11731508 · filed Apr 16, 2026
All 9 reports naming powertrain (other)

Brakes

Reports naming service brakes, the antilock braking system, brake hoses, master cylinders or the parking brake.

8
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

Subject: Safety Concern – Unintended Emergency Braking My vehicle is experiencing a serious safety issue involving unintended emergency braking. While driving on the freeway, the vehicle has unexpectedly applied emergency braking on its own when other vehicles pass at higher speeds. This has occurred multiple times and has nearly caused accidents. This issue occurs consistently during my trips between [XXX] and [XXX] on Highway XXX, typically happening once or twice per trip. I make this drive approximately 4–6 times per year. The problem remains unresolved and continues to occur as of today, April 29, 2026, posing an ongoing safety concern. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ID 11734570 · filed Apr 29, 2026

I have been encountering a series of troubling and erratic issues with my vehicle. These problems occur under various driving conditions, including acceleration, steady-state driving, and braking. However, the most prevalent and problematic occurrences seem to transpire during acceleration and braking. During acceleration, I've observed inconsistent behavior. Sometimes, the car shifts smoothly, with minimal torque drop between gears. On other occasions, the vehicle accelerates initially but then abruptly loses all power between gears, resembling the sensation of someone engaging the clutch in a manual vehicle and shifting slowly. This results in a temporary power loss lasting 1-2 seconds, followed by an over-revving and clutch slip, leading to an unintended surge in acceleration. The issues I've encountered during braking typically begin with a chattering noise and vibrations that seem to be an imbalanced or shocked reciprocating mass, I can assume maybe one of the clutches/flywheel . This is often followed by decreased brake pedal linearity, requiring increased brake pedal pressure to stop. This normally results in an unintended aggressive forward jerk just before coming to a stop, akin to someone releasing a clutch on a manual transmission vehicle too quickly when downshifting while the engine speed is too low. One night I went to get diapers for my baby and it was raining and I hit the breaks and the breaks lost control and I crashed into a median wall and my car kept spinning around. Ambulance were called and I was admitted to the hospital with minor injuries.

NHTSA ID 11622137 · filed Oct 27, 2024
All 8 reports naming brakes

Visibility

Reports naming windshields, glass, wipers, defrosters and mirrors.

7
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

The rear view backup camera doesn’t show. Some days it works most of the time it’s green and distorted. I know it’s common issue so it should be apart of the 21-22 Elantra recall

NHTSA ID 11631319 · filed Dec 17, 2024

Small crack in windshield caused by a twig less than 4 inches long with a diameter smaller than the width of. Finger. Another small crack in windshield. Do not know how it occurred Contacted local windshield repair business and was advised, per manufacturer they only replace the windshield. Looked online and see that the windshield issue is a known defect. I have an elderly father that lives in North Carolina and I’m gonna have to replace my glass because I don’t want another twig to fall in and burst out my entire windshield when I’m driving down the highway

NHTSA ID 11576149 · filed Mar 8, 2024

Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.

Airbags

Reports naming the air-bag system — deployment behaviour, inflators, sensors and warning lights.

6
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

The contact owns a 2023 Hyundai Elantra. The contact stated that while operating the vehicle, the air bag warning light intermittently flashed on and off. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, who replaced the clock spring on two separate occasions, but the failure reoccurred. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, but no assistance was offered. The failure mileage was 44,000.

NHTSA ID 11704412 · filed Dec 11, 2025

The contact owned a 2023 Hyundai Elantra. The contact stated that while driving at night and at approximately 60 MPH, a deer had crashed into the driver's side front door and bounced off and crashed into the driver's side front bumper. The contact stated that he had been thrown forward by the force of the crash, but then he was thrown back when the seat belts restrained him. The contact hit his headrest with force. The contact was unable to stop immediately, and when he had stopped, he observed that the front bumper was hanging from the frame of the vehicle and that he was leaking radiator fluid. The contact stated that the police and emergency services had arrived. The contact stated that he was transported to the emergency room. The contact stated that the police had written a report and had the vehicle towed to an impound lot. The contact stated that he was examined at the ER, and it was determined that he was concussed and had sustained whiplash injury to his neck. The contact stated that the front driver's air bag and side air bag had not deployed. The contact stated that his insurance provider declared the vehicle a total loss. The manufacturer was informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 71,000.

NHTSA ID 11700651 · filed Nov 20, 2025

Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.

Fuel system

Reports naming fuel storage or delivery — tanks, pumps, lines, injectors and fuel leaks.

4
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

The tracking number assigned by NHTSA for this issue is 11733456 I am writing to update and escalate my previously filed safety complaint regarding my vehicle. I recently received my car back from the dealership after they informed me that all issues had been repaired and that the vehicle was safe to drive. However, after getting the vehicle back, it is not the same, and it is not safe to operate. The vehicle pulls strongly to the left while driving, which creates a serious risk of losing control, especially at normal road speeds. In addition, multiple safety and driver‑assistance functions are not working as intended. Despite these issues, the dealership insists that everything is “within specifications” and refused to take further corrective action. Because of these unresolved defects, I am afraid to drive this vehicle. I have already experienced a traumatic incident related to this car, and returning it in this condition has caused significant fear and emotional distress. I cannot go through another dangerous situation. I believe this vehicle poses a genuine safety risk to me and to others on the road. I am requesting that NHTSA review my complaint again, including this new information, as the problem persists after inspection and attempted repair. A vehicle that pulls to one side and has non‑functioning safety systems should not be considered safe for normal use. Thank you for your time and attention to this matter. I am available to provide any additional details, documentation, or records you may require.

NHTSA ID 11734991 · filed Apr 30, 2026

This has happened twice. I brought it to Hyundai in Syracuse and they said they could not find a problem. The problem: While driving the car loses power, when pressing the gas pedal the car stops propelling forward. Safety: The car randomly loses power while driving. This could happen when pulling out onto a highway or railroad tracks etc. Problem been reproduced: It has not been reproduced by a dealer. It's happened twice randomly in the 2 years I've had the car. I did bring it to Hyundai in Syracuse NY but they said they didn't find an issue. Inspection: Hyundai in Syracuse NY checked the car for an issue. No police or insurance. Warning/messages: There were no messages or warnings before it lost power.

NHTSA ID 11705361 · filed Dec 16, 2025

Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.

Tires & wheels

Reports naming tires, wheels, hubs, or the tire-pressure monitoring system.

4
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

The contact owns a 2023 Hyundai Elantra equipped with Kumho Tires, Tire Line: Solus, Tire Size: 205/55/R16, DOT Number: 1K2LMYAY. The contact stated that when his daughter started the vehicle in the driveway, she felt that the vehicle was riding low on the driver's front tire side. The contact stated that he and his daughter observed a blister on the tire sidewall that had burst. The contact stated that the tire was flat. The vehicle was not taken to an independent mechanic or tire repair shop. The tire was not inspected and was not replaced. The contact stated that the failure was the third Kumho Solus 205/55/R16 that had developed blisters on the sidewall and failed. The approximate vehicle failure mileage was 20,000 and the tire failure mileage was 3,500.

NHTSA ID 11607022 · filed Aug 7, 2024

225/45/17 - Tire would not hold air. After examining the tire, the tire had multiple bulges to the sidewall. Tire had to be replaced.

NHTSA ID 11516635 · filed Apr 12, 2023

Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.

Steering

Reports naming the steering system — racks, columns, power-steering assist and steering linkage.

3
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

The contact owned a 2023 Hyundai Elantra. The contact stated while the contact's daughter was driving at an undisclosed speed, the lane assist was activated, however, the vehicle independently steered to the right. The contact stated that the failure occurred on a two-lane road. The contact stated that due to the failure, the vehicle crashed into a ditch, where there was a concrete covert where the vehicle came to a stop in an open ditch. The contact stated that the transmission and other unknown parts were detached from the vehicle. The vehicle was towed to a tow yard. The vehicle was deemed a total loss. The contact stated that the vehicle had been taken to the dealer previously because of failure and an unknown sensor had been replaced. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. In addition, the contact was advised to contact the NHTSA Hotline and report the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 20,305.

NHTSA ID 11601558 · filed Jul 12, 2024

The contact owns a 2023 Hyundai Elantra. The contact stated that on several occasions while driving in the rain, the vehicle experienced severe hydroplaning while driving slowly over standing water. The contact lost control of the vehicle and nearly caused a crash. The vehicle was not yet taken to the dealer to be inspected or diagnosed. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 7,000.

NHTSA ID 11560100 · filed Dec 14, 2023

Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.

Exterior lighting

Reports naming headlights, tail lights, turn signals and other exterior lighting.

2
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

My headlights severely fog up during night driving or during rain, damp weather, or after any contact with water. This is an extremely common problem with 2021-2023 Hyundai Elantra (all trim levels) and causes extreme low visibility at night. Another issue is the horn which is also extremely common on 2021-2023 Hyundai Elantra (all trim levels) and mine has gone out completely twice and been replaced twice. My headlights have been inspected with the issue replicated and was told that it will not require any work because it’s “normal to have fog inside headlights” and no warranty work will be done to fix this safety issue

NHTSA ID 11563423 · filed Jan 3, 2024

The contact owns a 2023 Hyundai Elantra. The contact stated that the vehicle was equipped with an auto light feature that allowed the headlights to turn on at night while the dash light would become dim. However, the contact stated that the headlights had been turning on during daytime, which was impairing his vision of the road. Additionally, the instrument panel lights were becoming dim, preventing the contact to monitor the instrument cluster. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who gathered the vehicle data and sent a report to the manufacturer. The manufacturer then informed the contact that the vehicle was operating as designed. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage 500.

NHTSA ID 11509837 · filed Mar 2, 2023

Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.

Seat belts

Reports naming seat belts, buckles, retractors and pretensioners.

2
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

I have contacted the dealer. I am almost ready to get a lawyer. This is the 4th lemon I’ve been sold. Seat belt is installed wrong. Software updates are available and screaming at me but the dealership Will not call Me back. Two days now. Hyundai finance has treated me Disrespectfully. I have error messages when I enter the car. The hood looks aftermarket and about to pop up. The NHtsa website says this car has recalls but not mine?? What ?? It smells like something is burning from the console. The brake collision is calibrated off. I would have a wreck. It’s not safe. Period.

NHTSA ID 11555104 · filed Nov 14, 2023

On July 28th I had an accident and hurt myself because seatbelt did not work

NHTSA ID 11535617 · filed Jul 31, 2023

Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.

Body & structure

Reports naming the vehicle structure, frame, body panels, doors, hood and trim.

2
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

The car was involved in an accident. It was going 5-10 mph and hit a light post. There was minor body damage and about 10-15 seconds after initial impact the airbags deployed and cracked my windshield. The car was considered a total loss.

NHTSA ID 11555914 · filed Nov 19, 2023

I have contacted the dealer. I am almost ready to get a lawyer. This is the 4th lemon I’ve been sold. Seat belt is installed wrong. Software updates are available and screaming at me but the dealership Will not call Me back. Two days now. Hyundai finance has treated me Disrespectfully. I have error messages when I enter the car. The hood looks aftermarket and about to pop up. The NHtsa website says this car has recalls but not mine?? What ?? It smells like something is burning from the console. The brake collision is calibrated off. I would have a wreck. It’s not safe. Period.

NHTSA ID 11555104 · filed Nov 14, 2023

Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.

Higher-selling and older vehicles accumulate more reports. Counts are not failure rates and are not directly comparable between vehicles that sold in very different numbers.

Elsewhere on this vehicle

Data sources

Data on this page last refreshed .