Hyundai Elantra Common Problems and Solutions
Rough Engine Idle
Problem:
The engine is idling roughly, and the check engine light is illuminated.
Solution:
It’s likely that you have a failing vapour canister purge valve, which is affecting the performance of the EVAP emission control system. It’s extremely difficult to access the valve on its own, and most drivers simply order a new EVAP system from BreakerYard and replace the entire thing.
Difficulty level
Incorrect Gear Changes (All Automatics)
Problem:
The gears in your automatic are not functioning correctly, and the car keeps going into the wrong gear. The check engine light may also be on.
Solution:
You need to tackle this before it starts causing serious damage to your gearbox. The fault is most likely related to the speed sensors in the transmission. Removal is very easy, and you can find a new sensor on our parts list that you can slot straight into place.
Difficulty level
Engine Stalling
Problem:
The engine struggles to start, and when it’s running, it stalls often.
Solution:
There are many possible reasons for this, but before you send the car off for a diagnostic check, have a look at your crankshaft angle sensor. It’s a part that commonly wears out on the Elantra, and it’s an easy replacement job. We can deliver your new sensor when you order through BreakerYard.
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Crankshaft Sensor
No Audio From Car Speakers (All Models with Navigation Units)
Problem:
There is no sound coming from the speakers, so you can’t hear the radio, CD, navigation, or telephone calls.
Solution:
You need to reset your navigation unit because you’re suffering from a very common software glitch. Disconnect the car’s negative battery terminal and then wait for about 15-minutes. Reconnect the battery terminal, and your speaker should start working again.
Difficulty level
Weak Headlights
Problem:
Your headlights have filmed over, and the light output has drastically reduced as a result.
Solution:
This is fairly common on the Elantra, but you shouldn’t have to replace any parts of the headlight unit. Remove the headlight lens and use some scouring powder and a damp cloth, gently rubbing the lens.
Difficulty level
Engine knocking noise
Problem:
If you are hearing a knocking noise coming from the engine, then it will most likely be caused by faulty engine mounts. This will be most noticeable when you are taking off (accelerating) and/or when you apply the brakes. These are clear indications of broken engine mounts.
Solution:
You will need to remove the engine with an engine hoist to gain access to the engine mounts. You will need to check to see which ones are broken and replace them to fix the problem.
Difficulty level
Window regulator failure
Problem:
The window regulator is prone to failing on this car. If you are having problems with the windows not working as they should, and they are very hesitant in going up and down, you have an issue with the regulator.
Solution:
You will need to fit a replacement window regulator to resolve the issue. Watch the video below to see how to remove the window regulator:
Difficulty level
Window Regulator Mechanism
Air conditioning problem
Problem:
There are known issues with the air conditioning failing on the Elantra. There could be issues with the air conditioning not working on all of the settings, only working on certain ones, or there is also a known issue with the air conditioning not blowing out cold air on the cold settings. The blower motor would be the cause of the first fault and the compressor would be the cause of the cold air fault.
Solution:
Depending on which issue you are having, you will need to replace the faulty part. If the air conditioning is not working on all settings, you will need to replace the blower motor and if it is not blowing out cold air, you will need a replacement compressor. We can help you find replacement air conditioning parts at very low prices.
Difficulty level
Difficulty Steering
Problem:
The car is getting harder to steer and may pull to one side when on a straight.
Solution:
Check your front suspension arms, which may have developed rust on the inside. That’s made them much weaker, and in most cases, you’ll need to find replacements on our parts page. If you’ve caught the problem early enough, then you can get away with applying some wax oil corrosion protection.
Difficulty level
Loss of Brake Power
Problem:
You have to apply a lot of pressure to the brake pedal to get the car to a stop.
Solution:
This is a manufacturing problem that only really affects Elantras that were built in 2013. The problem is that the brake discs and the brake pads are extremely prone to rapid rusting, and you’ll have little choice but to replace both. You should also check the area surrounding the brake system and replace any additional parts that are visibly affected by rust.
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