Is the Hyundai Elantra a good car? Thoughts on reliability after 100,000 miles of ownership.

I’ve owned my Hyundai Elantra GT for five years and put 100,000 miles on it. The primary reason I like it is that it’s extremely economical. The gas mileage is great, and parts for maintenance are inexpensive and easy to find. The true cost of ownership - factoring in fuel, insurance, maintenance and purchase price - is really low. It’s also very easy to work on if you’re a DIY’er. Anyway, after five years of ownership here are my thoughts on the Hyundai reliability as it pertains to the Elantra.

[@karencolimon780]

I have a 2001 Hyundai elantra with 235K miles surviving Florida and NY weather. Purchased it in 2004 for $6K with 34K miles. Best $6K I ever spent.

[@lucasu5315]

Im looking at buying a 2005 hyundai elantra with only 62,000 miles on it!

[@bryanCLXT]

Amen

[@bryanCLXT]

@@lucasu5315 that's a steal buy it and do ya brakes and oil change regularly and it's gonna be a gem

[@jke88]

@Liams Lexus Build wow, you drive a lot, 44,000 a year approximately. You do long distance a lot?

[@01Elantraaa]

Ikr! I have a 2001 Elantra GLS 110k Miles Noble White Bought it with about 80k miles in 2014 Its been a great car! But the heater core went out but just switch the hoses the heat and engine water hoses so instead of it leaking the water goes back to the engine

[@billgale5568]

2020 Elantra SEL here ….only 10,000 miles but it drives better than my 2018 Camry with 20,000 miles. EVERYTHING has a really nice feel to it and it’s plenty “peppy” enough for me with the 2.0 liter “Atkinson cycle” engine and the CVT transmission which so far has been the best transmission I’ve ever owned (age 89) ….paid $16,500 for it NEW (plus sales tax & registration etc. …$18,300 “out the door” NICE CAR.

[@HiFiInsider]

I also have 2013 GT bought new. It has 62K miles today and has been rock solid. More reliable than my wife's 2016 Civic.

[@lukeqstafford]

Maintenance update: the front left brake caliper froze up last week. It was an easy job to replace it, did it myself with help from a KZbin video.

[@irisbaez1972]

My Elantra 2008 has 150K miles with zero problems. A/C still working and I never have done any services. I'm the first owner and do all maintenance since new.

[@rachelcarvell4831]

I love this video! Thank you for being straight up real. These are the answers I needed

[@masone.6850]

I plan to purchase a 2013 Elantra sedan soon at about 101k miles. This video was very assuring.

[@christopherjohn5575]

Instant thumbs up for the instant answer. Thank you!

[@fizzlepop5318]

got a 13' 2dr Manual. Had it since 14'. Had 14k on it, and i'm at 75k now. Car has been super reliable the whole time. When it is time for me to get a new car, I am looking forward to selling this off to a kid for their first car, where it should continue to be reliable for the new driver.

[@JahdielSaneo]

THANK YOU FOR THIS VIDEO! would love an update :) just bought a 2022 Hyundai Elantra, really hoping it will last me 300,000 miles. big ask from the vehicle but i drive a lot for work. doing research now on how to maintain hyundai elantra's this video was definitely helpful!

[@unclesam6]

06 elantra - 241k miles - starts & runs like a dream. Drives pretty well in snow too.

[@JohnLeonhart1]

I have a 2012 Elantra GLS 107K miles. Got it at 75K miles for $7.5K So far I had to replace a brake hose, get new rotors and brakes, new rear shock absorbers since the rear tires were getting feathered by bad shocks, 4 news tires, new daylight running light bulbs, tpms sensors don't work so I always have the low pressure light, and now the sway bar bushings are getting worn down and the car makes rattle noises on small bumps but its not much of a problem. Its a good car Next thing I'll do is Transmission flush and new Spark plugs. Idk if previous owners done those.

[@Dmolina3715]

Bro you literally are describing my 2012 Elantra problem per problem. Gonna guess they were made the same day at the Alabama plant lol. I just got white lithium grease for the bushings and I’m about to take over most of the 100,000 mile Maintence. The sensors are annoying too

[@habibah2702]

I appreciate this video! I purchase a used 2013 Hyundai Elantra 10mths ago. It definitely runs well with regular maintenance. Hoping it stays that way for as long as I need it too 😆

[@angelacespedes3226]

Hi there, how is the Elantra going? I am thinking of buying a 2013 one but I am not 100% sure

[@lukeqstafford]

I actually just sold it about a month ago. It was a great economical car for me for the 8 years I owned it. At 160,000 miles it was starting to need regular repairs (suspension and steering components, new evap canister, to name a recent few). If the 2013 you’re looking at has less than 100,000 miles I’d say go for it if it’s a good price.

[@ryannaylor2905]

what a vid in 2024. just bought one off carvana exact same but black with 30k mi, I got a 2012 mustang with 210k mi and i love this era of cars 2010-2013. auto makers these days make some cars easy and some cars unusually difficult to work on depending on what the job is.

[@lukeqstafford]

30k holy moly! Nice find.

[@JoesGoldenGarage]

I have a 2013 elantra sedan 143k miles just did the coils and plugs last week foot to the floor driving everyday never misses a beat

[@jamesbell8719]

at 125000 km 2013 manual. Fun to drive because of the manual. Keep that oil fresh. My a|c went out at 120,000 km. I think it should be run in the winter every once in a while, to keep the O rings not drying out. front brakes I've changed twice but not the backs. Keep changing the oil and air filter.

[@gramz47]

what about the new 2022 elantra, you guys think they fixed their engine issues?

[@lukeqstafford]

I just picked it up from the shop... needed a new AC compressor. $729. It’s the first non-general maintenance repair it’s needed so far.

[@MayDayDevinci]

ok thanks. keep us informed on here about how the car holds up. i'm interested in buying an elantra. thanks.

[@itsomarz9337]

Wtf ! My 2013 bmw f10 compressor costed me 350$

[@ilhamyunus74]

good video since Im a first year university student im looking forward to this specific hyundai elantra gt as my first car because the insurance is pretty cheap so what would your suggestions be when buying one of these cars specifically 2013-2016 models.

[@hollcheese]

I have a '19 GT model, and I've kept up maintenance (air filter, oil change, etc.). She's at 60k miles now. I love mine, she has handled a lot. Including daily driving and road trips. The paint is my only complaint, scratches and paint chipping will happen, it's the factory paint. You can get a good wax job to try to prevent it. My brother has 17 Elantra with 73k miles, and his is still going strong with regular maintenance. Gas mileage is wonderful.

[@vinmangob8555]

I got 224000 kms on my 2013 manual, runs like new.

[@sjcerrillo]

I bought 2013 new for my wifey. About to hit 170k miles. Only problem was the crank shaft position sensor went out and I replaced it myself. Dealer was useless in diagnosing the problem… stalling when engine at mid temp. Hope to reach 300k plus miles on this GT!=)

[@audionews8659]

How much was it? I’m looking at a 2017 for 4k

[@kimbagypsy236]

Looking at a 15 elantra gt with 124k .. thanks for overview

[@darylboldin4732]

I have 05 300 000 mile and still rolling everything still work on it

[@princesethadu-krah9374]

Thank you

[@whattv5179]

hey your english exellent !

[@engellsd3198]

thank you 😊😊

[@bhflute]

My 2017 has 125k on it and running great

[@coolshipvids]

Makes me feel confident in my 17 Elantra, which has since gained 104k miles, regular maintenance throughout.

[@JahdielSaneo]

how is it holding up now? would love to hear an update!

[@audionews8659]

Update

[@Anangelfromabove]

Is there anything else that’s worth changing on the car besides general stuff? Spark plugs, transmission flush? One thing I had an issue with was the battery shim. It had been loose and no mechanic could figure it out. Kept telling me maybe my alternator or starter… which can happen, So I changed my battery since I was told it’s dead and it still kept dying… I eventually remembered my car shut off randomly all power dead when I first bought it and the place I bought the car from fixed it for me the second day I had it, so I called them and they tightened the shim and it fixed my whole problem. Ridiculous. Bought a battery for no reason.

[@lukeqstafford]

Actually now that you mention it l, when I put a new battery in a few years ago I had to use a shim, which was a first. Never done a transmission flush and probably won’t ever.

[@gif24gt60]

Do you recommend a base manual accent or base manual versa for reliability and parts costs? I need a car that will go 300,000+ with no problems. I like manuals.

[@lukeqstafford]

I’ve never owned either of those vehicles, but I’d go with the Accent. 300,000 tho… you’re probably looking at a Corolla.

[@gif24gt60]

@@lukeqstafford ok, thanks. I heard Hyundai's reliability has come a long way. Nissan, not sure.

[@morinkhuur4945]

2005 Elantra. Only owner. After 16 years and 336k+ miles, original engine, transmission and still going strong. Finally replaced AC compressor and alternator last year in 2020. Other than regular brake pads changes, belts etc. it's been good to me.

[@bradleypetersen241]

I have a 1999 Hyundai Elantra gts 2.0 with 187k change the timing belt myself runs great

[@lukeqstafford]

My understanding is the 2013 Elantra timing belt never needs to be replaced. How was the job on the 99 tho? Pretty straightforward?

[@bradleypetersen241]

@@lukeqstafford it's easy to change with the right tools

[@micahhill4786]

@@lukeqstafford the 2013 Hyundai Elantra has a timing chain it doesn’t need to be change as long as the oil is change every four to five thousand miles.

[@robmalcolm8042]

@@lukeqstafford 2013 and up Hyundais and kias have a timing chain

[@startube2788]

@@lukeqstafford if your engine has a chain, you would probably be good for 200k miles or more. If it has a timing belt, will need to be replaced .There's no engine in this wold whos timing belt doesnt need to be replaced. Check the maintenance manual.

[@WhereverSheRoams]

Have you had to change the coupler on the steering column? This year and model is the ONLY one that Hyundai will not cover on the extended warranty (according to my dealership) cost me $250 because they "couldn't fix it" when I came in for my scheduled apt. They also wanted 200 to replace my hatch release button because the rubber rotted out. Other than that I have loved my mine. Bought it brand new in 2014 I have 96,000 miles on mine.

[@lukeqstafford]

Nope never had to replace the coupler. I hope you didn’t pay to have your hatch button replaced (common issue with the hatchbacks). If you look on my KZbin page I have another video on how to replace that button, it’s super simple. The video includes the part number, you can order online. Good luck!

[@WhereverSheRoams]

@@lukeqstafford awesome I will take a peek- Hyundai extended the warranty on all Elantra’s to have it be covered except the 2013 GT

[@randallremix]

My 2013 power steering coupler is broken right now at 147,000 mi. A $1 part with $400 labor. 😳

[@Chloe-kd3tb]

Hi there! Mileage and maintenance update?? I am debating buying one for myself with about 109k mi for 8500 dollars. having a hard time deciding and would love some input. Thanks!

[@lukeqstafford]

I’m at 150,000 miles right now. The car is to show its age a bit more these days. I had a cylinder misfire a few months ago; a new ignition coil fixed that. Changed the spark plugs while I was at it. I’ve also had a persistent check engine light for a “small evaporative leak” that a new gas cap and new purge valve didn’t fix. But no big repairs needed! 8500 is a decent price considering used car prices these days. I can’t advise you on whether or not to buy it, but I will say that this is the most economical car I’ve ever owned, even with its recent issues.

[@nicolasrenderos2967]

I have an Elantra 2013 and i am just getting 20 mpg

[@shsmadsk1741]

Thanks for the video….I’m looking at 2013 Elantra GT with 233,000 for $4.5k…the owner is a mechanic who did regular maintenance on it……do you think it’s a good deal?

[@nompumelelothomo8617]

How did it go?

[@audionews8659]

Omg

[@RedSoxBowHunter]

Hyundai replaced the “top” of my engine (2015 Elantra) due to piston slap ... what does that mean exactly ... the top ? How long you think it will last I change oil religiously at 3-4K miles

[@lukeqstafford]

Interesting. I assume that was under warranty? I’m holding out hope for this to make it to 150,000 miles without any issues. At that point it’s likely that the New England winters will start taking their toll on the body and I’ll sell it before it turns into a rust bucket.

[@TheSinisterCrow]

Hell dude.. the vehicles beside the car are rust buckets lol

[@EricFortuneJr.]

Piston slap isn’t very common on lower mileage engines. It’s something that higher mileage engines do during cold mornings and it typically goes away once the engine reaches operating temperature. When an engine is stone cold, some of the metal components will shrink just a little, by literally a few thousands of an inch. The pistons move straight up and down, but when they retract a little they tend have a tiny amount of side to side play (against the cylinder walls) and you’ll hear a very light clatter on really cold mornings. This clatter will gradually taper off as the engine warms up while you drive. Piston slap doesn’t necessarily indicate a problem since many engines can go several more years depending on driving habits and maintenance intervals. That said, the top of your engine is called the cylinder head. If they replaced the cylinder head then it was for more reasons than piston slap. It gets pretty complex, but there’s a lot of internal components in the top end that can fail. Just change the oil religiously every (3-5k) or 4,000 miles. Hopefully the dealership did right by you and hopefully they’ll continue to do so..

[@lukeqstafford]

@@EricFortuneJr. thanks for your insight. My Elantra definitely slaps a bit on cold mornings, just as you’ve described. And it goes away when the engine warms up.

[@startube2788]

@@lukeqstafford what oil do you use? I recommend you liquy molly oil and at every oil change add a bottle of Ceratec, it helps with internal friction.

[@666vanish_]

Best car fr

[@realrandolballa]

Finally straight answer no clickbait now I can’t watch the full vid in peace

[@JuanPablo-ki7kq]

I have an enlantra gt 2015, diésel, never had a problem and it gives 23 km/l

[@lukeqstafford]

Whoa there’s a diesel version? Not in the US.

[@JuanPablo-ki7kq]

@@lukeqstafford in Chile Men is a VGT 1.6 CRDI

[@JuanPablo-ki7kq]

The enlantra gt un other countries is called hyundai i30

[@madcapper6]

Were you able to figure out the problem with the A/C?

[@lukeqstafford]

Compressor. Replaced it and it’s been fine since.

[@themisfitsman77]

Do you need metric tools? Or will my normal tools work?

[@lukeqstafford]

You could probably get by, but a set of metric sockets would be very helpful.

[@darylboldin4732]

O5 gt with 300 000 mile

[@brotherjoll1802]

How is the car holding up now?

[@lukeqstafford]

Still going strong at 135,000 miles. The A/C has been a sore point the last few years, needing a new compressor and a few recharges since then. The engine knocking is very much apparent, but it doesn’t affect performance.

[@shsmadsk1741]

@@lukeqstafford ….I’m looking at 2013 Elantra GT 233,000 miles for $4.5k…the owner is a mechanic who kept up with regular maintenance……you think it’s a good deal?

[@lukeqstafford]

@@shsmadsk1741 233k, that’s up there. But if it belonged to a mechanic, you can’t ask for a better scenario than that. And $4,500 is a good deal for anything decent these days. I’d say go for it. Good luck!

[@greaseaddiktz3217]

Not 25 to fill it up rite now 😂😂😂

[@Bugby67]

I live in NC and after hurricane Ian a pine tree not big as anything had fell on a guys Hyundai elantra.It folded that car like the letter V !! At first I thought it was a Ford but my wife told me it was an Hyundai.It was parked in their yard,no one was in it Thank God but I will never get a Hyundai that car was messed up very bad from the front to the very back.if it had people in the car all would have been killed

[@HudzPro]

That's not an excuse to not get a car. Which other vehicle would handle the impact of a tree falling off?

[@smartman123]

I think the hyundai now is much better than before they improved a lot over the year it s reliable as the ford or toyota

[@HanxySenojary]

No and it will never be reliable they always gave a engine problems. hyundai is trash i would never buy this car anymore in my life

[@angelitotaiko]

@@HanxySenojary😳😳😳 maybe you get a bad seed one

[@HanxySenojary]

@@angelitotaiko nope

[@angelitotaiko]

@@HanxySenojary what problems you encounter with hyundai vehicles?

[@HanxySenojary]

@@angelitotaiko most of then after 100k miles has piston slap problems

[@OoMASEoO]

Pretty sure I got a way better deal on mine, used 40k miles and $23k (These are my real figures but this is sarcasm. I am a woman and I am very dumb.)

[@scottstevens4958]

Bro, that better be your wife's car

[@lukeqstafford]

She drives an F-150 Raptor.

[@randallremix]

2013 was the worst year for Elantra

[@joeshmoe-hr3qh]

Scamdemic