What reliability score does the Hyundai Elantra get?

5.5 out of 10, scored from the 8 faults we document for this model and how severe each one is.

Is the 2017–2020 Hyundai Elantra reliable?

Scored from 8 documented faults · reviewed by the VehicleFaults Research Team

Quick answer

5.5/ 10

Mixed

On our documented-fault scoring the Hyundai Elantra rates 5.5 out of 10 · mixed. We hold 8 known faults for it and 2 are rated high severity, so the risk is real but contained. The weak points cluster around engine, electrical and steering. A well-serviced example with evidence for the big-ticket items is usually a safe buy; the score describes the model, not the specific car in front of you.

Verdict · Negotiate · budget for the known faults

What the score is built from

Critical: 0
High: 2
Medium: 3
Low: 3

Weak points cluster around engine, electrical, steering, transmission (7-speed dct).

Two faults free · full checklist for this exact Hyundai Elantra for $9.

Check this car

The faults that decide it

EngineHigh

Nu 2.0L engine — some engine-failure and stalling complaints (check recall/warranty history).

Typically appears: 60,000+ miles
What to inspect: Listen for knock, confirm any engine software/recall work.
Typical repair: Infotainment repair or software fix · £120–£1,200

Transmission (7-speed DCT)High

Shuddering, hesitation, or jerky shifts at low speeds, particularly when pulling away from a standstill.

Typically appears: 40,000-70,000 miles
What to inspect: Conduct a low-speed forecourt test. Shift between Drive and Reverse multiple times, feeling for delayed engagement or excessive judder when creeping forward.
Typical repair: DCT clutch pack / mechatronic work · £900–£3,200

EngineMedium

Oil consumption on some engines.

Typically appears: 70,000+ miles
What to inspect: Check oil level and top-up history.
Typical repair: Oil leak trace & seal / gasket · £180–£700

Engine ManagementMedium

Rough idle, hesitation under load, and an illuminated engine management light due to premature ignition coil failure.

Typically appears: 50,000-80,000 miles
What to inspect: Start the engine from cold. Observe the rev counter for hunting and feel through the steering wheel and seat for misfire vibrations before the engine warms up.
Typical repair: Suspension refresh (per axle) · £250–£1,100

Exterior PaintworkMedium

Flaking or peeling paint, predominantly on models finished in white or pearl white, affecting the roof edge and bonnet.

Typically appears: 3-5 years
What to inspect: Visually inspect the roofline above the windscreen, the bonnet edges, and the A-pillars for bubbling, lifting clear coat, or exposed primer.
Typical repair: Infotainment repair or software fix · £120–£1,200

Costs are indicative UK independent-garage bands for budgeting and negotiation · never a quote.

Inspecting a Hyundai Elantra?

See two faults free, then get the full tickable checklist for this exact car · what to look at, what it costs and how serious it is. Full report $9.

Check this exact car

Hyundai Bayon Hyundai i10 Hyundai i20 Hyundai i30 Hyundai i40 Hyundai Ioniq

Quick answer

What the score is built from

The faults that decide it

Inspecting a Hyundai Elantra?

Reliability of other Hyundai models