This TSB provides a procedure to diagnose and replace, if necessary, an automatic transmission with Incorrect Ratio DTC (transmission clutch slip in gear above limit) listed on Page 2.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗2018 Hyundai Elantra GT powertrain problems
severe 5 complaints filed with NHTSA · avg repair $2,500 · see powertrain across all vehicles →
Complaints
5
Recalls
0
Avg fix
$2,500
1fire
1injury
Is there a fix? Manufacturer service bulletins
The manufacturer has issued service bulletins covering powertrain on this vehicle — documented repair instructions, service campaigns, or warranty extensions sent to dealers. A TSB isn't a recall (it's not a free safety remedy), but it's the manufacturer acknowledging the issue and how to fix it.
Hyundai has launched an anti-theft software upgrade and window decal campaign (Campaign 993), combined with an anti-theft steering wheel lock campaign (Campaign P32), in response to an increase in thefts of certain 2011-2022MY Hyundai vehicles not equipped with engine immobilizers targeted through social media. For certain vehicles that cannot be updated with the software (Campaign 993), Hyundai is offering customers steering wheel locks at the dealer (Campaign P32). This Dealer Best Practices Guide provides information to assist dealership personnel with customer questions relating to the immobilizer software upgrade, window decals and steering wheel lock ant-theft solutions available from
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Certain vehicles (listed below) equipped with 7-speed Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) may exhibit abnormal vibration at low speeds. This bulletin outlines the procedures for diagnosing and replacing the Double Clutch, including a Transmission Control Unit (TCU) software update.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗If you are servicing an applicable vehicle with the following symptoms and DTC, follow the Service Procedure on Page 3. ï· Check Engine light on ï· DTC P0880/P088000 - TCM Power signal error open/short ï· Transmission stuck in 4th gear fail-safe ï· Harsh shift into Drive and Reverse
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗The automatic transmission warranty repair policy authorizes in-dealership repairs of the following components for both OEM (new) and remanufactured automatic transmissions:
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Source: NHTSA manufacturer communications. Bring the bulletin number to your dealer or shop.
What owners are reporting 3 most recent
Engine, power train, malfunction changing my speed control. No warning lights, first ticking noise from engine then knocking loud noise from engine. Noticed ticking about 4 days ago at first, today on freeway going 60-70 mph just changed to loud knocking, immediately engine warning starts to flash on dash board then speed just drops from 60-70 mph to 35 mph almost got hit by trucker and another…
We were driving the car and all of a sudden it would only go 30 mph and starting making a noise, pulled over and car would not go anymore. I took to a shop authorized from my carmax care program and it was diagnosed as rod bearings broken in the engine. This is a know issue with this model and Hyundia extended the warranty due to know issue. We were then advised to take to a dealer since a…
In mid-2024, the vehicle experienced a flashing check engine light. I brought it to Murfreesboro Hyundai (TN), where they confirmed the oil was low and started an oil consumption test. A bearing clearance test (BCT) was also performed and passed. After back-and-forth over several weeks, I was told the oil consumption was within spec, but the dealership stated Hyundai would cover all necessary…
Had powertrain trouble with your 2018 Hyundai Elantra GT?
File a complaint with NHTSA → It's free, official, and how every report above got here — owner filings are the federal safety record this page is built on.
Common questions
How serious is the powertrain problem on the 2018 Hyundai Elantra GT?
It's a meaningful issue. 5 complaints have been filed and the failure mode causes operational problems for owners. Repairs average $2,500.
At what mileage does the powertrain typically fail?
Based on the 5 complaints filed, powertrain issues most often appear around 19,000 miles. Some report problems earlier; some make it well past 150,000 with no symptoms. Maintenance habits matter — vehicles that received timely fluid services and were not regularly overworked tend to last longer.
What does it cost to fix?
Independent shops typically charge around $2,500 for powertrain repairs on this vehicle. Dealer pricing tends to run 20-40% higher. The exact figure depends on the specific failure mode, parts availability, and your local labor rates. If you're outside factory warranty, an extended service contract often covers this category.
Are there any recalls related to powertrain?
No active recalls currently cover powertrain issues on this vehicle. The complaints filed represent owner-reported failures that haven't risen to the level of a manufacturer-issued recall — but they're still worth knowing about before you buy or budget for repairs.
Related
Complaint and recall data sourced from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
public records database. Verify the raw federal record at
nhtsa.gov/vehicle/2018/Hyundai/Elantra GT.
Severity ratings are derived from reported crashes, fires, injuries, and fatalities. Repair cost estimates are
independent-shop national averages and may differ in your area. Some links on this page are affiliate links.