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2020 hyundai Elantra engine problems

severe 73 complaints filed with NHTSA · avg repair $3,100

Complaints
73
Recalls
0
Crashes
2
Avg fix
$3,100

What owners are reporting 8 most recent

engine · filed 12/30/2025

Reporting motor has a cold start ticking sound coming from the motor.

engine · filed 12/28/2021

Checked VIN for open recall and that number doesn't come up. My engine had to be replaced under factory warranty. The issue was the exact same as a current recall. I am concerned that Hyundai is not expanding the recall in an effort to downplay the issue. 2020 Elantra, 2.0 liter engine, stalling while driving. The tech found the piston rings were bad. I hope this will help others and Hyundai will …

engine · filed 12/27/2023

The contact owns a 2020 Hyundai Elantra. The contact stated that while attempting to start the vehicle, the engine cranked but the engine failed to turn over. The vehicle was towed to the dealer where it was diagnosed with a failed engine and the contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact stated that the dealer informed him that the VIN w…

engine · filed 12/20/2024

Engine stalled out, oil light and engine repair light both on, call will not turn over

engine · filed 12/16/2019

TL* THE CONTACT DROVE A 2020 HYUNDAI ELANTRA LOANER VEHICLE. WHILE THE CONTACT'S SON WAS DRIVING, THE VEHICLE REVVED TO APPROXIMATELY 80 MPH AND THEN SUDDENLY STALLED. THE DRIVER STATED THAT THE CHECK ENGINE INDICATOR ILLUMINATED. THE CONTACT'S SON COASTED THE VEHICLE OFF THE ROAD AND STARTED THE VEHICLE, BUT IT DID NOT RESPOND. AFTER APPROXIMATELY TWO MORE ATTEMPTS, THE VEHICLE REGAINED POWER. TH…

engine · filed 12/12/2025

Subject: Abnormal Engine Failure – Hyundai Case #[XXX] I am filing this complaint regarding my Hyundai vehicle, which suffered catastrophic engine failure at approximately 150,000 miles. While the vehicle is outside the standard warranty, this type of failure is not consistent with normal use or expected durability. Hyundai Motor America has acknowledged receipt of my certified demand letter (Case…

engine · filed 12/10/2025

my engine started to make a horrible noise and the car won’t start anymore. Hyundai engines are known to burn oil and don’t light the low oil dash light until it is too late. Other Elantra trims have a recall for Hyundai to fix this yet mine does not.

engine · filed 12/07/2020

11/10/2020 AS I WAS DRIVING I NOTICED A BURNING SMELL COMING FROM THE OUTSIDE OF THE CAR I HAD MY WINDOWS DOWN I PULLED OVER IN A GROCERY STORE PARKING LOT BECAUSE I THOUGHT THE SMELL WAS COMING FROM SOMEONE ELSE CAR ONLY TO FIND OUT IT WAS MINE I ONLY HAD THE CAR FOR A LITTLE OVER 6 MONTHS THE CAR HAD 2552 MILES ON IT I REPORTED TO HYUNDAI CUSTOMER SERVICE ONLY TO BE DISAPPOINTED AND GIVEN THE RU…

Common questions

How serious is the engine problem on the 2020 hyundai Elantra?

It's a meaningful issue. 73 complaints have been filed and the failure mode causes operational problems for owners. Repairs average $3,100.

At what mileage does the engine typically fail?

Mileage data is limited for this issue. Owners report failures across a wide range, suggesting cause is more about driving conditions and maintenance than mileage alone.

What does it cost to fix?

Independent shops typically charge around $3,100 for engine 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 engine?

No active recalls currently cover engine 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.

Other problem areas on this vehicle

Complaint and recall data sourced from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) public records database. 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.
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