WANTED TO CORRECT ONE PART OF MY PREVIOUS COMPLAINT WITH INFO ON AN ONLINE DISCUSSION ABOUT ELANTRAS DEVELOPING BUBBLES AND BLOWOUTS ON A REGULAR BASIS. THE CORRECT FORUM WEBSITE IS HTTP://WWW.CARGURUS.COM/CARS/DISCUSSION-T35968_DS499866?ACTIONMESSAGES=YOUR+ANSWER+HAS+BEEN+POSTED. *TR
2013 Hyundai Elantra
Owner reports · Recalls · Investigations
More warning signs than most Elantra years
Owner complaints for the 2013 Hyundai Elantra are substantially higher than the model-year median of 182.
About this comparison →How this year compares
Owner complaints by model year
Compare all Elantra years →Counts vary with age, sales and reporting. They are not failure rates.
What owners reported most
All reported categories
Tap a category to read its complaints. One report may name several components.
When problems were reported
Mileage at the reported incident
795 reports with mileage · 518 unknown
NHTSA’s mileage field refers to the reported incident, not necessarily the filing date. This shows report counts, not the likelihood of a failure.
What to inspect
Issues worth paying extra attention to based on owner reports.
- Steering. Review the 271 owner reports in this category and discuss these concerns during a pre-purchase inspection. Read reports →
- Engine. Review the 233 owner reports in this category and discuss these concerns during a pre-purchase inspection. Read reports →
- Air Bags. Review the 168 owner reports in this category and discuss these concerns during a pre-purchase inspection. Read reports →
NHTSA owner reports · September 18, 2026 snapshot.
Tires complaints
55 reportsI HAVE A BRAND NEW HYUNDAI ELANTRA GT WITH 17" WHEELS. IT HAS ABOUT 3200 MILES ON IT. I KNOW THAT I RECENTLY HIT A POTHOLE ON THE HIGHWAY, BUT NOTHING THAT I THOUGHT WAS VERY SERIOUS. I DISCOVERED A BUBBLE ON MY LEFT FRONT TIRE SHORTLY THEREAFTER AND ORDERED A BRAND NEW NEXEN 215/45R17, WHICH IS THE BRAND THE CAR CAME WITH. …
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I HAVE A BRAND NEW HYUNDAI ELANTRA GT WITH 17" WHEELS. IT HAS ABOUT 3200 MILES ON IT. I KNOW THAT I RECENTLY HIT A POTHOLE ON THE HIGHWAY, BUT NOTHING THAT I THOUGHT WAS VERY SERIOUS. I DISCOVERED A BUBBLE ON MY LEFT FRONT TIRE SHORTLY THEREAFTER AND ORDERED A BRAND NEW NEXEN 215/45R17, WHICH IS THE BRAND THE CAR CAME WITH. WHEN THE SHOP INSTALLED THE TIRE, THEY DISCOVERED THAT MY OTHER FRONT TIRE ALSO HAD A SMALLER BUBBLE ON IT. I AM NOW GETTING THAT REPLACED AS WELL. THERE ARE DISCUSSION FORUMS ONLINE DETAILING CASE AFTER CASE OF ELANTRAS WITH 17" WHEELS HAVING BUBBLES, BLOW-OUTS ON THE HIGHWAYS ETC. HERE'S ONE FOR EXAMPLE: HTTP://WWW.CARS.COM/HYUNDAI/ELANTRA-GT/2013/CONSUMER-REVIEWS GUESS A FEW PEOPLE WILL HAVE TO DIE BEFORE ANYTHING IS DONE BUT HOPING THAT ISN'T TRUE. *TR
THE TIRE BLEW OUT THE SIDE WALL. NOW THERE ARE BUBBLES APPEARING ON THE OTHER TIRES. I CONTACTED CONTINENTAL TIRE. WAS TOLD TO TAKE IT TO A CONTINENTAL TIRE DEALER AND GIVE THEM FILE # [XXX]. I WENT TO DISCOUNT TIRE AND THEY SAID CONTINENTAL TIRE WOULD COVER 50% OF THE TWO TIRES TO BE REPLACED, FILE # [XXX]. I BELIEVE THAT…
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THE TIRE BLEW OUT THE SIDE WALL. NOW THERE ARE BUBBLES APPEARING ON THE OTHER TIRES. I CONTACTED CONTINENTAL TIRE. WAS TOLD TO TAKE IT TO A CONTINENTAL TIRE DEALER AND GIVE THEM FILE # [XXX]. I WENT TO DISCOUNT TIRE AND THEY SAID CONTINENTAL TIRE WOULD COVER 50% OF THE TWO TIRES TO BE REPLACED, FILE # [XXX]. I BELIEVE THAT THE TIRES ARE DEFECTIVE. I AM AFRAID THAT THE OTHER 2 FACTORY TIRES ARE GOING TO DO THE SAME THING. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR
TIRE ON VEHICLE DEVELOPED A BLISTER ON THE OUTSIDE PART OF THE TIRE. *TR
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 HYUNDAI ELANTRA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS NOT EQUIPPED WITH A SPARE TIRE OR A JACK. THE CONTACT ALSO MENTIONED THAT WITHOUT A CELLULAR SIGNAL NO ONE COULD CONTACT ROAD SIDE ASSISTANCE TO CHANGE A FLAT TIRE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED. THE FA…
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TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 HYUNDAI ELANTRA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS NOT EQUIPPED WITH A SPARE TIRE OR A JACK. THE CONTACT ALSO MENTIONED THAT WITHOUT A CELLULAR SIGNAL NO ONE COULD CONTACT ROAD SIDE ASSISTANCE TO CHANGE A FLAT TIRE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 6. UPDATED 04/17/14 MA
I PURCHASED A NEW 2013 ELANTRA GT IN MAY OF THIS YEAR. A WEEK AFTER TAKING IT HOME THE TIRE PRESSURE LIGHT WENT OFF WHILE DRIVING. WE PULLED OVER & IMMEDIATELY BLUE LINK SENT AN ALERT TELLING ME A MALFUNCTION IN MY TPMS WAS FOUND & TO TAKE THE CAR TO SERVICE ASAP. TOOK IT TO THE DEALERSHIP & WAS TOLD THAT IS WAS A SIMPLE LEARNIN…
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I PURCHASED A NEW 2013 ELANTRA GT IN MAY OF THIS YEAR. A WEEK AFTER TAKING IT HOME THE TIRE PRESSURE LIGHT WENT OFF WHILE DRIVING. WE PULLED OVER & IMMEDIATELY BLUE LINK SENT AN ALERT TELLING ME A MALFUNCTION IN MY TPMS WAS FOUND & TO TAKE THE CAR TO SERVICE ASAP. TOOK IT TO THE DEALERSHIP & WAS TOLD THAT IS WAS A SIMPLE LEARNING FAILURE. RESET CODE & WAS SENT ON MY WAY. THE NEXT WEEK THE CAR DID THE SAME THING WITH THE TPMS. BACK TO THE DEALER IT WENT. HAD IT SCANNED AGAIN. WAS TOLD NOTHING WAS WRONG & THEY CLEARED THE CODES THRU BLUE LINK. I WAS THEN TOLD TO JUST IGNORE IT & IT SHOULD BE OK. MOSTLY IT IS JUST ELECTRONICALLY INTERFERENCE. I PARKED THE CAR & USED MY HUSBANDS CAR FOR A WHILE. I START USING MY CAR & GOING DOWN 295 IT HAPPENED AGAIN. PULLED OVER & BLUE LINK SENT THE ALERT AGAIN. CALLED THE DEALERSHIP & MADE AN APPOINTMENT. I WAS TOLD THAT THEY HAD A CERTIFIED HYUNDAI PROFESSIONAL TECHNICIAN THAT WAS GOING TO LOOK MY CAR OVER. AFTER 4 HRS OF WAITING I WAS GIVEN A PAPER ASKING ME NOT TO USE ELECTRONICS IN THE CAR AS THIS WAS CAUSING MY TPMS ISSUE. THEY PAPER WAS DATED MARCH 2007. REALLY? AT THAT POINT I WAS FRUSTRATED SO I CALLED HYUNDAI CORP OFFICE. AFTER AN HR CONVERSATION I WAS TOLD TO TAKE IT TO ANOTHER DEALERSHIP FOR SERVICE. SO THAT FRIDAY OFF THE CAR WENT TO ANOTHER DEALERSHIP. AT THE DEALERSHIP I WAS TOLD THAT THE CAR NEEDED AN ALIGNMENT BAD & THAT MY TIRES WERE OVER INFLATED BY 8LBS EACH. SO 3 HRS & A LOT OF PATIENCE I WAS TOLD THE CAR WAS ALL SET. 20 MINS AFTER LEAVING THE DEALERSHIP THE TPMS LIGHT GOES OFF AGAIN WITH THE BLUE LINK ALERT TO SERVICE THE CAR ASAP. THE FOLLOWING DAY BACK TO THE DEALERSHIP AGAIN. THIS TRIP I WAS TOLD I NEEDED A SENSOR CHANGED. 3 HRS LATER I LEAVE & HALF WAY HOME TPMS AGAIN. THAT'S 5 TIMES NO REPAIR. NOW THEY CAN'T PROVIDE ME A LOANER BUT WANT TO KEEP THE CAR OVERNIGHT. CAR HAS BEEN PARKED FOR 2 WEEKS WAITING. *JB
I FIND THE LACK OF A SPARE OR DOUGHNUT, NOT PROVIDED ON THIS MODEL TO BE A ABSOLUTE ACCIDENT AND SAFETY ISSUE WAITING TO HAPPEN. MOST FLATS TODAY BECAUSE OF SO MUCH DEBRIS ON OUR ROADS CAUSE MOST TIRES TO INCCUR DAMAGE UNREPAIRABLE WITH A AREOSOL CAN.AS FAR AS HAVING ROAD SERVICE SOLVING AND REPLACING THE TIRE THERE ARE SO MAN…
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I FIND THE LACK OF A SPARE OR DOUGHNUT, NOT PROVIDED ON THIS MODEL TO BE A ABSOLUTE ACCIDENT AND SAFETY ISSUE WAITING TO HAPPEN. MOST FLATS TODAY BECAUSE OF SO MUCH DEBRIS ON OUR ROADS CAUSE MOST TIRES TO INCCUR DAMAGE UNREPAIRABLE WITH A AREOSOL CAN.AS FAR AS HAVING ROAD SERVICE SOLVING AND REPLACING THE TIRE THERE ARE SO MANY DIFFERENT SENARIOS THAT AFFECT THE REPAIR OR REPLACEMENT AND TOWING OF THE VEHICLE CONSEQUENTLY PUTTING THE DRIVER AND HIS PASSENGERS IN HARMS WAY. THESE TYPE BREAKDOWNS ON BUSY HIGHWAYS AND LESS TRAVELED ROUTES ONLY EXPOSE THE DRIVERS AND PASSENGERS TO ADDITIONAL SAFETY ISSUES. IF THIS UNIT HAD A DOUGHNUT SPARE IT COULD BE INSTALLED AND ON THE VECHILE AS SOON AND AS FAST AS ROAD SERVICE ARRIVES. ISSUES ON ROADS LESS TRAVELED ON HOLIDAYS,WEEKENDS,AND LATE AND VERY EARLY HOURS ,AND THE NEED TO FIND A SHOP TO PURCHASE A TIRE AND A PLACE TO SPEND THE NIGHT BECOME A LARGER ISSUE THAN THE FLAT TIRE. AS FAR AS NOT PROVIDING A SPARE BECAUSE IT ELIMINATES WEIGHT AND WILL INCREASE MPGS IS A BOGUS PREMISE ON THE PART OF AUTO MAKERS. UNFORTUNATELY I BELIEVE WE WILL SEE INJURYS AND SADLY SOME DEATHS RESULTING BECAUSE OF THE ABSENCE OF A SPARE OR DOUGHNUT. THESE SAD CIRCUMSTANCES WILL RESULT IN LAW SUITS AND CLASS-ACTION LITIGATION. *JS
I WAS AT THE LOCAL MALL AND I LEFT TO GO TO A NEARBY KOHLS, NOT EVEN A MILE AWAY. I NOTICED THAT THE LOWTIRE INDICATOR HAD COME ON AND PARKED THE CAR IN KOHLS PARKING LOT. A COUPLE NOTICED ME STRUGGLING WITH THE EQUIPPED AIR PUMP AND CAME TO HELP. THE TIRE WOULDN'T HOLD AIR AND WE TRIED A CAN OF FIX-A-FLAT. IT DIDN'T HELP EITHER…
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I WAS AT THE LOCAL MALL AND I LEFT TO GO TO A NEARBY KOHLS, NOT EVEN A MILE AWAY. I NOTICED THAT THE LOWTIRE INDICATOR HAD COME ON AND PARKED THE CAR IN KOHLS PARKING LOT. A COUPLE NOTICED ME STRUGGLING WITH THE EQUIPPED AIR PUMP AND CAME TO HELP. THE TIRE WOULDN'T HOLD AIR AND WE TRIED A CAN OF FIX-A-FLAT. IT DIDN'T HELP EITHER AND WE NOTICED THAT THERE WAS A SMALL HOLE IN THE TIRE WHICH HAD APPARENTLY BLOWN OUT. I STOPPED AT A NEARBY WALMART AND HAD TO PURCHASE A TIRE TO GET HOME. MY HUSBAND AND I STOPPED AT THE DEALERSHIP EARLY THE NEXT MORNING TO SPEAK TO OUR SALESMAN WHO IMMEDIATELY USHERED US TO THE SERVICE MANAGER WHO SAID " NO" NO PROBLEMS WITH TIRES THAT WE KNOW SORRY. THE WHOLE CONVERSATION AND THEIR CUSTOMER SERVICE TOOK ABOUT 2 MINUTES. I TRULY BELIEVE THAT THERE WAS AN ISSUE WITH THE TIRE BUT THEY WERE RELUCTANT TO EVEN DISCUSS IT. THE CAR HAS LESS THAN 1200 MILES. I GUESS IT WAS EASIER TO BE FRIENDLY WHEN SELLING THAN SERVICING. *TR
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 HYUNDAI ELANTRA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT INSTEAD OF BEING EQUIPPED WITH A SPARE TIRE, THE VEHICLE WAS EQUIPPED WITH A REPAIR KIT. THE CONTACT WAS ADVISED BY THE MANUFACTURER THAT HE WOULD HAVE TO PURCHASE A SPARE TIRE. THE CONTACT FELT THAT THE FEATURE WAS A SAFETY ISSUE BECAUSE HE COULD EXPERIENCE A…
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TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 HYUNDAI ELANTRA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT INSTEAD OF BEING EQUIPPED WITH A SPARE TIRE, THE VEHICLE WAS EQUIPPED WITH A REPAIR KIT. THE CONTACT WAS ADVISED BY THE MANUFACTURER THAT HE WOULD HAVE TO PURCHASE A SPARE TIRE. THE CONTACT FELT THAT THE FEATURE WAS A SAFETY ISSUE BECAUSE HE COULD EXPERIENCE A FAILURE WITH THE TIRE AND NOT BE ABLE TO GET TO A SERVICE STATION OR REPAIR FACILITY. THE MANUFACTURER ADVISED THAT THE SPARE TIRE KIT WAS EQUIPPED ON THE VEHICLE BASED ON THEIR SPECIFIC POLICY. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 935. *TR
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 HYUNDAI ELANTRA LIMITED EQUIPPED WITH CONTINENTAL TIRES, LINE: CONTI PRO, SIZE: 215/45/17. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE LOW TIRE PRESSURE WARNING LIGHT WAS ILLUMINATED. THE TIRE AFFECTED WAS ALWAYS THE FRONT PASSENGER SIDE TIRE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO DEALER FOR INSPECTION, WHO STATED THAT THE FAILUR…
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TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 HYUNDAI ELANTRA LIMITED EQUIPPED WITH CONTINENTAL TIRES, LINE: CONTI PRO, SIZE: 215/45/17. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE LOW TIRE PRESSURE WARNING LIGHT WAS ILLUMINATED. THE TIRE AFFECTED WAS ALWAYS THE FRONT PASSENGER SIDE TIRE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO DEALER FOR INSPECTION, WHO STATED THAT THE FAILURE WAS CAUSED BY THE WEATHER. THE DEALER SUGGESTED ADDING NITROGEN, HOWEVER THE FAILURE WAS NOT CORRECTED. THE CONTACT NOTICED BUBBLES ON THE SIDEWALL OF THE FRONT PASSENGER AND DRIVER SIDE TIRES. THE FRONT DRIVER SIDE TIRE WAS PREVIOUSLY REPLACED BECAUSE OF A PIN SIZED HOLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE BUT NO ASSISTANCE WAS PROVIDED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 16,000. THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 21,800.
Official recalls
423V651000 · Service Brakes, Hydraulic:antilock/traction Control/electronic Limited Slip:control Unit/module
Sep 22, 2023
Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2011-2015 Elantra, Genesis Coupe, Sonata Hybrid, 2012-2015 Accent, Azera, Veloster, 2013-2015 Elantra Coupe, Santa Fe, 2014-2015 Equus, 2010-2012 Veracruz, 2010-2013 Tucson, 2015 Tucson Fuel Cell, and 2013 Santa Fe Sport vehicles. The Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) module may leak brake fluid internally and cause an electrical short, which can result in an engine compartment fire while parked or driving.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: An engine compartment fire while parked or driving can increase the risk of injury.
Remedy: Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures until the recall repair is complete. Dealers will replace the ABS fuse, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 10, 2024 through October 11, 2024. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 251.
17V769000 · Service Brakes, Hydraulic:pedals And Linkages
Nov 30, 2017
Hyundai Motor Company (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2013-2014 Elantra sedan, coupe and GT vehicles. The brake pedal stopper pad can deteriorate allowing the brake light switch plunger to remain extended when the brake pedal is released. This will allow the brake lights to remain illuminated continuously. It can also allow the shift lever to be moved without depressing the brake pedal, or activate the engine management brake pedal override feature.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: If the brake light switch plunger does not retract as it should when the brake pedal is not being pressed, the brake lights may stay illuminated preventing accurate communication to following vehicles that the vehicle is slowing or stopping. Additionally, if the brake switch plunger is not retracted, then the transmission can be shifted out of PARK without depressing the brake pedal. Either condition increases the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will replace the brake pedal stopper pad, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin February 8, 2018. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-800-633-5151. Hyundai's number for this recall is 170. This campaign expands recall 16V574.
16V574000 · Exterior Lighting:brake Lights:switch
Aug 2, 2016
Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain model 2013 Elantra vehicles manufactured December 1, 2012, to April 30, 2013. The brake pedal stopper pad can deteriorate allowing the brake light switch plunger to remain extended when the brake pedal is released.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: If the brake light switch plunger does not retract as it should when the brake pedal is not being pressed, the brake lights may stay illuminated preventing accurate communication to following vehicles that the vehicle is slowing or stopping. Additionally, if the brake switch plunger is not retracted, then the transmission can be shifted out of PARK without depressing the brake pedal. Either condition increases the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will replace the brake pedal stopper pad with an improved part, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin on September 30, 2016. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 146.
13V115000 · Air Bags:side/window; Structure
Apr 1, 2013
Hyundai Motor Company is recalling certain model year 2011-2013 Elantra vehicles manufactured from November 12, 2010, through March 5, 2013. A support bracket attached to the headliner may become displaced during a side curtain airbag deployment.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: If the headliner support bracket makes contact with an occupant during a crash, it may cause a laceration injury.
Remedy: Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will apply adhesive strips to the headliner, free of charge. The safety recall began during April 2013. Owners may contact Hyundai at 1-800-633-5151. Hyundai's recall campaign number is 109.
Additional source detail variants (2)
Structure
Hyundai Motor Company is recalling certain model year 2011-2013 Elantra vehicles manufactured from November 12, 2010, through March 5, 2013. A support bracket attached to the headliner may become displaced during a side curtain airbag deployment.
Consequence: If the headliner support bracket makes contact with an occupant during a crash, it may cause a laceration injury.
Remedy: Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will apply adhesive strips to the headliner, free of charge. The safety recall began during April 2013. Owners may contact Hyundai at 1-800-633-5151. Hyundai's recall campaign number is 109.
Air Bags:side/window
Hyundai Motor Company is recalling certain model year 2011-2013 Elantra vehicles manufactured from November 12, 2010, through March 5, 2013. A support bracket attached to the headliner may become displaced during a side curtain airbag deployment.
Consequence: If the headliner support bracket makes contact with an occupant during a crash, it may cause a laceration injury.
Remedy: Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will apply adhesive strips to the headliner, free of charge. The safety recall began during April 2013. Owners may contact Hyundai at 1-800-633-5151. Hyundai's recall campaign number is 109.
Model-level recall history does not show whether a particular VIN is affected or has received a repair. Check a VIN with NHTSA ↗
NHTSA investigations
4AQ23002 · Hyundai And Kia Abs Module Fires
Opened Nov 17, 2023 · No close date supplied
Status: open (inferred from source dates) · Service Brakes, Hydraulic:antilock/traction Control/electronic Limited Slip:control Unit/module
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) has received eight Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) and eight Kia America, Inc. (Kia) Part 573 Recall Reports between 2016 and 2023. The combined 16 safety recalls all involve the antilock braking system (ABS) modules or Hydraulic Electronic Control Units (HECU) manufactured by the equipment supplier Mando. The Part 573 Recall Reports contain varying defect descriptions and differing remedy descriptions for the same or similar equipment supplied by Mando. Safety recalls included in this Audit Query (AQ) review include: Hyundai recalls 20V-520, 20V-543, 21V-161, 21V-160, 21V-303, 22V-056, 22V-810, and 23V-651. Kia recalls 16V-815, 20V-518, 20V-519, 21V-137, 21V-331, 22V-051, 22V-800, and 23V-652 The purpose of this AQ is to evaluate the timeliness and scoping of Hyundai and Kia’s defect decision making and adherence with reporting requirements; and understand the varying defect descriptions and remedies between these recalls.
EA21003 · Engine Fires
Opened Dec 22, 2021 · Closed Feb 5, 2024
Status: closed (inferred from source dates) · Engine
On March 29, 2019, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened two Preliminary Evaluations (PE19-003 on Hyundai and PE19-004 on Kia) to broadly investigate incidents of non-crash fires (regardless of origin or operational status of the vehicle) on various model year Hyundai and Kia vehicles. During the PE investigations, Hyundai and Kia issued several recalls to address vehicle fires, including those due to engine failures involving various engine types. The remedies for the engine failure recalls typically involve engine inspection (to detect existing damage), and if necessary, engine replacement. Additionally, both manufacturers have been installing an engine control software modification known as Knock Sensor Detection Software (KSDS) which is intended to detect impending engine failure, alert the driver, and limit engine power (to lessen likelihood of engine failure).KSDS is being installed under recalls and non-safety field actions, and both companies have extended limited engine warranties (see recall files). On December 22, 2021, ODI upgraded PE19-003 and PE19-004 to this Engineering Analysis (EA21-003, covering both Hyundai and Kia) to evaluate the scope of the prior recalls related to engine failures/fires and the efficacy of the recall remedies for the recalls, as well as the long-term viability of related programs and non-safety field actions being conducted by Hyundai and Kia. The former issue involved approximately 550,000 MY 2013 Hyundai Elantra, MY 2011 Kia Sorento, and MY 2012-2015 Kia Rio. The latter issue involved approximately 2.5 million recalled vehicles, which have been identified as displaying potential remedy concerns: Hyundai recalls 15V-568, 17V-226, 20V-746, and 21V-727; and Kia recalls 17V-224, 19V-120, 20V-750, and 21V-844. Regarding the recall scope issue, among all of the scope vehicles identified at EA opening, ODI found only the MY 2011 Kia Sorento vehicles equipped with both the Theta II 2.4L 4-cylinder Multi-Point Injection (MPI) and the Lambda II 3.5L 6-cylinder MPI engines experienced relatively high rates of reported fires. In December 2023, Kia issued recall 23V-877 that will cover about 80,000 MY 2011 Kia Sorento vehicles equipped with the Theta II 2.4L MPI engines. The remedy will involve an inspection, and if necessary, a replacement of the engine, as well as the installation of KSDS. It should be noted that in 2021 these vehicles were included in a KSDS product improvement campaign with warranty extension. For the MY 2011 Sorento vehicles equipped with the Lambda II 3.5L engines, ODI believes that future engine failures/fires involving these vehicles will likely be due to a lax in adhering to the proper or scheduled engine maintenance (regular engine oil changes), rather than a design or manufacturing engine issue. Regarding the issue of the efficacy of the recall remedies, ODI found the majority of the recalled Hyundai and Kia vehicles, by model, experienced lower reported fire rates after the remedies were applied. Furthermore, ODI found that for most vehicles that did not receive the recall remedies, by model, experienced relatively high fire rates. To address this problem, Hyundai informed ODI in December 2023, that it will renotify all of its owners covered by the Hyundai recalls of engine failures/fires every 8 months for the next 3 years. In December 2023, Kia stated that it will renotify the majority of its owners every 8 months for the next 3 years.Several previously recalled Kia models are excluded from the renotification due to their lower reported rates of engine fires. Overall, the renotification actions will help to increase the recall completion rates, thus reduce the frequency of engine fires in the future. In view of the recall action being taken by Kia and renotification actions being taken by both Kia and Hyundai, ODI is closing this Engineering Analysis. Also, both companies have been released from the 2020-iniated Consent Orders (Kia since November 2022 and Hyundai since November 2023). The agency reserves the right to take additional action if warranted by future circumstances. To review the reports cited in the Closing Resume ODI Report Identification Number document, go to NHTSA.gov.
DP21003 · Throttle Control System Vulnerabilities
Opened Nov 12, 2021 · Closed Jun 20, 2023
Status: closed (inferred from source dates) · Vehicle Speed Control:throttle
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) received a petition letter dated October 10, 2021, requesting an investigation of possible defects in the electronic throttle control (ETC) system on certain Kia vehicles resulting in the opening of DP21-003. Accordingly, Model Year (MY) 2005-2016 Kia Optima/K5, MY 2006-2015 Kia Sorento, MY 2007-2016 Hyundai Elantra, MY 2007-2016 Hyundai Santa Fe, MY 2006-2015 Hyundai Sonatas are all part of the subject population. The petition was originally filed as a Vehicle Owner Questionnaire that can be reviewed at NHTSA.gov under reference (ODI) number 11439675.On November 12, 2021, ODI opened Defect Petition DP21-003 to evaluate the petitioner?s request. ODI performed trend analyses of the VOQs related to vehicle speed control issues for all the subject vehicles and found that none of the 52 Model/Model Year Hyundai/Kia vehicles demonstrated any actionable trend that warranted an investigation.Petitioners submitted 1119 VOQs and non-VOQ cases in which sudden uncommanded acceleration (SUA) or loss of motive power (LOMP) incidents were alleged.For the 1119 reports, 220 were incidents involving crashes, from which 69 subject Hyundai-Kia vehicles were inspected by Hyundai/Kia dealer technicians, Hyundai/Kia engineers, and/or third-party representatives.ODI found the inspections identified no vehicle defects related to the ETC system.Of the 220 crash-involved reports, 13 Event Data Recorder (EDR) records were downloaded successfully and 11 of those indicated driver error: (i.e.) pedal misapplication.A condition where the accelerator pedal is mistakenly applied instead of the brake pedal when the driver wants to stop the vehicle.In addition, ODI reviewed a scientific journal paper published in Forensic Science International in 2016 by Mr. Park et al ., as well as related test videos. ODI does not believe there is any evidence of uncontrollable SUA occurrences in any of the tests reviewed. NHTSA's Office of Vehicle Safety Compliance (OVSC) reviewed the allegations regarding the potential noncompliance with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 124.Based on the information provided, the Agency concludes there is insufficient information for us to determine if a possible non-compliance exists.Finally, both Hyundai and Kia informed ODI that all their vehicles manufactured after 2012 were equipped with an ETC management system, in which the engine speed will go to idle when the system sees signals from both the brake pedal and accelerator pedal at the same time; this is commonly known as the brake-throttle override system.After thoroughly assessing the material submitted by the petitioner, information already in NHTSA's possession, information submitted by Hyundai and Kia in response to an Information Request letter, and the potential risks to safety implicated by the petitioner's allegation, NHTSA does not believe that a formal investigation is warranted. After full consideration of appropriate factors, the petition is denied. A Federal Register Notice (FRN) further detailing NHTSA?s reasons for denial of the petition will be published.
EA12008 · Headliner Bracket Detachment
Opened Sep 13, 2012 · Closed Dec 9, 2013
Status: closed (inferred from source dates) · Air Bags:side/window; Structure:body:roof And Pillars; Unknown Or Other
In March 2013, Hyundai issued a safety recall to reinforce the attachment of the metal support brackets to the headliner assembly in approximately 186,254 model year 2011-2013 Hyundai Elantra vehicles built in Korea and sold in the U.S. (see NHTSA recall 13V-115 for more information).The recall covers vehicles built up to March 5, 2013.After that date, Hyundai began using headliners with reinforced bracket attachments in the Korea-built Elantra vehicles.ODI has opened a Recall Query (RQ13-004) to investigate model year 2009-2012 Hyundai Elantra Touring vehicles.During EA12-008, ODI found these vehicles are equipped with a support bracket design and layout similar to that in the above-mentioned Elantra vehicles.Also, the headliner manufacturing processes used were similar for both models.Like the Elantra vehicles built before the recall, the Elantra Touring model headliner does not contain reinforced bracket attachments.This Engineering Analysis is closed.See attached report for additional information.The ODI report cited above can be reviewed online at http://www-odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/owners/SearchNHTSAID under the following identification number: 10457696
Additional source detail variants (3)
Air Bags:side/window
In March 2013, Hyundai issued a safety recall to reinforce the attachment of the metal support brackets to the headliner assembly in approximately 186,254 model year 2011-2013 Hyundai Elantra vehicles built in Korea and sold in the U.S. (see NHTSA recall 13V-115 for more information).The recall covers vehicles built up to March 5, 2013.After that date, Hyundai began using headliners with reinforced bracket attachments in the Korea-built Elantra vehicles.ODI has opened a Recall Query (RQ13-004) to investigate model year 2009-2012 Hyundai Elantra Touring vehicles.During EA12-008, ODI found these vehicles are equipped with a support bracket design and layout similar to that in the above-mentioned Elantra vehicles.Also, the headliner manufacturing processes used were similar for both models.Like the Elantra vehicles built before the recall, the Elantra Touring model headliner does not contain reinforced bracket attachments.This Engineering Analysis is closed.See attached report for additional information.The ODI report cited above can be reviewed online at http://www-odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/owners/SearchNHTSAID under the following identification number: 10457696
Structure:body:roof And Pillars
In March 2013, Hyundai issued a safety recall to reinforce the attachment of the metal support brackets to the headliner assembly in approximately 186,254 model year 2011-2013 Hyundai Elantra vehicles built in Korea and sold in the U.S. (see NHTSA recall 13V-115 for more information).The recall covers vehicles built up to March 5, 2013.After that date, Hyundai began using headliners with reinforced bracket attachments in the Korea-built Elantra vehicles.ODI has opened a Recall Query (RQ13-004) to investigate model year 2009-2012 Hyundai Elantra Touring vehicles.During EA12-008, ODI found these vehicles are equipped with a support bracket design and layout similar to that in the above-mentioned Elantra vehicles.Also, the headliner manufacturing processes used were similar for both models.Like the Elantra vehicles built before the recall, the Elantra Touring model headliner does not contain reinforced bracket attachments.This Engineering Analysis is closed.See attached report for additional information.The ODI report cited above can be reviewed online at http://www-odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/owners/SearchNHTSAID under the following identification number: 10457696
Unknown Or Other
In March 2013, Hyundai issued a safety recall to reinforce the attachment of the metal support brackets to the headliner assembly in approximately 186,254 model year 2011-2013 Hyundai Elantra vehicles built in Korea and sold in the U.S. (see NHTSA recall 13V-115 for more information).The recall covers vehicles built up to March 5, 2013.After that date, Hyundai began using headliners with reinforced bracket attachments in the Korea-built Elantra vehicles.ODI has opened a Recall Query (RQ13-004) to investigate model year 2009-2012 Hyundai Elantra Touring vehicles.During EA12-008, ODI found these vehicles are equipped with a support bracket design and layout similar to that in the above-mentioned Elantra vehicles.Also, the headliner manufacturing processes used were similar for both models.Like the Elantra vehicles built before the recall, the Elantra Touring model headliner does not contain reinforced bracket attachments.This Engineering Analysis is closed.See attached report for additional information.The ODI report cited above can be reviewed online at http://www-odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/owners/SearchNHTSAID under the following identification number: 10457696
Illustration