1,145 of the
12,072 complaints filed about the Hyundai Elantra
are about the steering —
9% of everything owners reported.
The worst model year for it is 2013.
Steering wheel has been making whining noises when turning. Previously replaced worm shaft on steering while under warranty due to malfunction when first purchased. Issue has resurfaced but no longer covered under warranty. Dealer quoted nearly $800.00 to replace worm shaft.
NHTSA complaint #11758002 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
I am writing to formally report a serious vehicle safety concern involving a 2015 Hyundai Elantra, VIN [XXX], which is owned by my mother. The vehicle experienced a sudden loss of power steering assistance, creating an immediate and significant safety concern. This could have caused a series issue to myself and others on the road. Following the incident, I took the vehicle to a Hyundai dealership for inspection and diagnosis. The dealership advised that the vehicle’s VIN is not currently covered by a Hyundai recall for this issue. What is particularly concerning is that Hyundai has issued recalls involving power steering/electric power steering failures and related loss-of-steering-assistance concerns on various Hyundai models and model years. Given the nature of the failure and the similarities among reported power steering defects, I am concerned that this vehicle may be experiencing the same or a substantially similar safety-related defect, despite Hyundai currently stating that this particular VIN is not included in a recall. I respectfully ask NHTSA to: Review this incident and the underlying power steering failure associated with this 2015 Hyundai Elantra and determine whether the issue represents a broader safety defect. I understand that not every mechanical failure qualifies as a safety defect or recall. However, a sudden and unexpected loss of power steering assistance is fundamentally different from an ordinary wear-and-tear repair because it can affect the driver’s ability to safely control the vehicle. I am asking NHTSA to please review this matter as a potential safety defect. I would also appreciate confirmation that this complaint has been received and consideration of whether additional information, dealership documentation, diagnostic records, photographs, or repair estimates would assist with your investigation. Thank you for your attention to this matter and for your role in protecting the safety of motorists and the public. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION
NHTSA complaint #11757270 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The contact owns a 2010 Hyundai Elantra. The contact recently purchased the vehicle. The contact researched and became aware that the VIN was included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 13V113000 (Exterior Lighting), 15V100000 (Steering) and 20V061000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic). The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where the contact was informed that the repairs were unable to be completed because the required tools were unavailable. The manufacturer was not contacted. The contact had not experienced a failure.
NHTSA complaint #11755010 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
My steering wheel began to make clanking sound and lost the tension that allows for smooth turning of the wheel for both left and right. I looked it up and have found that this is a known issue that Hyundai has not addressed. Hyundai had a batch of bad steering wheel couplers that were installed in numerous models. This steering issue could cause someone to over compensate when turning the steering wheel. Since it does not have tension, it feels like the steering is disconnected from the car. I did have a quote from Hyundai. It was between $400-$600 depending on how long it took. My car is available for inspection at any time by the manufacturer, police, insurance or other. There are no warning lights or symptoms of the problem. You are litterally driving down the road and you go to make a left or right turn and it feels like a rubber band just busted and steering becomes unpredictable.
NHTSA complaint #11754930 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The contact owns a 2009 Hyundai Elantra. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the steering wheel failed to turn in the intended direction. The EPS warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. In addition, the contact stated that an unknown recall with a similar description of the failure was completed in 2023. The contact stated that the failure reoccurred. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure, and a case was filed. The failure mileage was approximately 118,000.
NHTSA complaint #11753249 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
While driving and turning, the car loses power steering. This has happened multiple times to my wife at lower driving speeds. These disconcerting safety incidents have randomly occurred without warning since the first week of May. The incident was first reported and taken to the Hyundai dealership on May 6th. The dealer looked at the car and stated no issues with steering. It has occurred multiple times since then. The last incident occurred on June 9th at 4pm at Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport. The car lost power steering control, a warning light briefly flashed and the engine shut off. I recovered the car and restarted it. The power steering reset itself. The car was taken a few days later to a Hyundai Dealer who has had the car since attempting to diagnose the issue. The dealer is now stating we should just replace the entire steering column assembly.
NHTSA complaint #11745972 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The contact owns a 2024 Hyundai Elantra. The contact stated that while driving 40 MPH, the tachometer, the odometer, and the power steering became inoperable, nearly causing the contact to drive off the road. Additionally, the turn signal lights were not functioning. All the warning lights were illuminated after the failure. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, who was unable to duplicate the failure after a 100-mile test drive and returned the vehicle unrepaired. The failure persisted, requiring an AAA tow back to the dealer, who again failed to duplicate the failure during a 3-mile test drive. An independent mechanic informed the contact that the diagnostic trouble codes needed to be reset with a vehicle scanner. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 21,000.
NHTSA complaint #11742737 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
My fiance and I, bought the vehicle in May 2022? from Carvana. His name is [XXX] . Mine is [XXX] (maiden - [XXX] ) Price. [XXX] passed away August 6, 2025. I wanted to mention this part before I explain the problem. His son is supposed to sign the car over to me as soon as court proceedings are finished. I love the car. But the car came from Carvana with 17K miles. It currently has 42,000K miles on it. I only drive it around town. I live in Tulsa, Oklahoma. The city is notorious for pot holes. However, I do not think this is a pot hole issue. Around December 2025, the car steering wheel started shaking vigorously. When we purchased the vehicle, the right CV axle was needing to be replaced. Now, I am not sure what the problem is, but I hate to have to trade the car in. This was my VERY first Hyundai experience, and I want to keep the car for forever, because of my fiance. But I may have to trade her in. I have come to a few conclusions on my own. 1) tires - so I had them replaced. 2) warped brake rotors 3) worn suspension components 4) worn electric steering column coupler. I wanted to give you the VIN because since it is an older vehicle (but like new to me), it may have had a recall. I do not want to keep this vehicle if it is a problem. But I also do not want to give it to anyone else since my fiance bought it for me. TO whome this may concern - if you happen to actually read these "complaints" could you give me a call at [XXX] [XXX] ) or my email: [XXX] [XXX] [XXX] I would honestly like to know if this is a huge issue with the car. At least that way I can prepare myself to sell it. I am overall very pleased with the car, except this issue is a big one, and [XXX] is not here to guide me into a decision with it. Thank you kindly, [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11740407 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Vehicle developed clunking noise in the steering. Was told it was coupler issue. The dealership, Nlorthbay Hyundai, in Petaluma, California, was negligent in the replacement, creating a grinding metal on metal noise, and damaged the steering column as well. The Dealership refused failed to correct the damage and attempted to defraud me over $3,000 for an entirely new steering column, and refuse to honor promised repair warranty despite their own negligence that created the damage. I found out that Hyundai models including mine have coupler issues involving recalls, years ago. I was not aware of this, and so not sure if my vehicle was part of the recall. However, Hyundai Motor America failed to notify me to take my vehicle in for a safety check for the vehicle coupler. And while I found that that my vehicle qualified for an extended warranty due to the recall, HMA so lacking in responsibility, sound business and moral ethics, let alone serious concern for my safety, claims that my vehicle is past the extended warranty by a completely insignificant mileage. As far as am concerned my vehicle is not safe to drive, and it remains at the dealership while I exhaust all avenues to have my car fixed. I have documents including clear repair notes and service request documents to support my complaint. Complaint being filed against both the dealership, Northbay Hyundai and the manufacturer, Hyundai Motor America.
NHTSA complaint #11735156 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
On January 1, 2025, I discovered my vehicle had been stolen after finding broken glass in my driveway and immediately reported the incident to the police, who arrived within approximately 20 minutes; neighbors later provided camera footage of the theft, and I also observed other nearby vehicles with similar damage, including a broken rear window and another Hyundai Elantra that appeared abandoned. The following day, police informed me the vehicle had been recovered, and upon inspection I found the rear driver-side window completely broken and the ignition area under the steering wheel damaged. Couple months later I received a recall notice for the antitheft system on my 2020 Hyundai Elantra (VIN [XXX] ). When I brought the vehicle to the dealership on April 1, 2026, I was informed that the recall cannot be completed unless an additional part is replaced, at a cost of approximately $1,178. This part was damaged during a prior theft incident. My vehicle was stolen last year and later recovered, and it sustained damage during that incident. However, I understand that safety recalls are required to be repaired at no cost to the owner under federal law. I am concerned that I am being asked to pay for repairs in order to complete a safety recall, and that my vehicle remains vulnerable without the recall remedy being performed. I am also concerned about the safety and legal compliance of continuing to operate the vehicle under these conditions. I am attaching supporting documents as proof of the vehicle theft, along with the reports provided by the dealer. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11728629 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Vehicle has a major problem steering down the road as I am traveling, its also makes loud clicks while turning left or right, also if freezing up and getting stiff along the way, The item that's causing this problem is call EPS , my light will not go out on its own, My local dealership will not honor the warranty or the recall stated it was repair ed I am the 2 or 3 owner of said vehicle, I can see where it show data update March 30 2026 , , It was never fix and Bentley Hyundai in Huntsville Alabama, will not honor this recall for my vehicle,
NHTSA complaint #11728159 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
EPS light came on and we changed the part and it came back on again I spent $350 for this service but I saw online that Hyundai is having a recall for my year and model car to reprogramming eps but my vin is not included. Is it possible they can include my vin ?
NHTSA complaint #11727532 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The vehicle experienced significant vibration at highway speeds and during braking within the first 6 months of ownership. The issue was confirmed by a dealership, and the rotors were resurfaced as a corrective action. The problem has now returned, and the rear brakes have worn down to metal-on-metal at approximately 35,000 miles. The rear brake pads are also unevenly worn, while the front brake pads remain in good condition. Multiple service representatives have stated they cannot explain this level of uneven rear brake wear. The brake defect causes strong vibration that impacts steering control and vehicle stability, especially at highway speeds and while slowing down. This creates a safety concern due to reduced braking performance and loss of consistent vehicle control. The issue has been confirmed by dealerships, but the root cause has not been identified or properly resolved. No warning lights or alerts were provided prior to the failure. The vehicle is currently unsafe to drive due to the condition of the brakes.
NHTSA complaint #11727255 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
UNKNOWN On January 24,2026, I was thankfully traveling only about twenty mph a block from my home and something happened in the front drivers side suspension that caused me to almost hit three parked cars. Once I got stopped, the car couldn’t get get pushed forward, won’t roll at all forward, like it’s in park, but in neutral we were able to push it backwards to the house. It seems that it could be what is described in recall 069. However when I put my vin in it said zero recalls. I see a letter to the original owner of this car, but I don’t see any info with the recall being repaired. The car hasn’t been worked on yet as we had a huge snowstorm the night the car broke and have since had sub zero temps and I’ve not found anyone to work on it in front of my home in this weather. How should I proceed? How can I get more info in regards to if this recall was remedied on this car?
NHTSA complaint #11717163 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Excessive vibration starting at 50 MPH. Its so bad that you hand becomes numb after one hour of driving. The vibration and shake gets so bad over 65 MPH that it becomes unless for a long trip. Vibration is happening on a 2025 Hyundai Elantra hybrid blue trim after 2,000 milles on a brand new vehicle purcahsed 2 months ago from Platinum Hyundai in Tracy, CA. Took it back to the same dealer twice for repairs. First they did wheel balance, and second time they did alignment. After both repair they said issue was fixed, but nothing changed, as it continues the same level of vibration over 50 MPH. Issue still presist and now Platinum Hyundai dealership in Tracy, CA says that is normal. If you are having same issue, please file complaints with NHTSA, so maybe they can do a recall on the vehicles. Hyundai Corporation of America is useless, as selling defective vehicles! THIS IS PERFECT EXAMPLE WHY I SHOULD HAVE BOUGHT AMERICAN QUALITY MADE VEHICLES, instead of JUNK FROM HYUNDAI!
NHTSA complaint #11713138 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The EPS light started coming on intermittently back in Nov. 2025 and power steering became very difficult. I could get it to reset by turning off the car and turning steering wheel all the way to right and then left and then back to center and restart. The steering ability returned but the light eventually came back on. I had Firestone look at this in Nov. and they recalibrated but advised if problem returned that I should contact dealer due to recall for 2010 Elantras for same issue. The light came back on this weekend. I note the recall is for Elantras manufactured through April 30, 2010. My car was manufactured June 20, 2010…. 6 weeks after the dates of the recalled models. Clearly this issue is affecting my car also. I plan to call the dealer and try to get them to look at it and see if they will repair under the recall… but I wanted to report this to you also since is affecting models outside the original recall dates.
NHTSA complaint #11710269 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The contact owns a 2017 Hyundai Elantra. The contact stated that while driving approximately 40 MPH, the steering wheel became difficult to turn to the left or the right. The contact stated there was no warning light illuminated. The contact had taken the vehicle to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed and determined that the power steering module needed to be replaced. The mechanic advised the contact of NHTSA Campaign Number: 17V213000 (Steering) and referred the contact to the dealer. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact called a local dealer and was informed that the VIN was not included in the recall. The contact stated that the loss of power steering functionality was intermittent but gradually became a recurring failure. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 18,000.
NHTSA complaint #11709071 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
There is a grinding in my steering column, worse at lower speeds. I have spoke to Hyundai about this and several other shops and they said this is a common recall for Elantras and there is a barring that is in the recall. However, my VIN is not in this common recall. If this is a common recall on Elantras in my year range, wouldn't ALL Elantras have the option to have to corrected not just a select few? Per Hyundai dealership, They know exactly what it is and it should be on a recall list my VIN just showing it so they can not correct the problem. This started before I purchased the car from a friend and she was told the same thing when she checked into it before.
NHTSA complaint #11704783 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Horn is not working. After I hit 10k miles it suddenly no longer has worked, I am currently at 34250k miles and received a recall letter from hyundai themselves in case of any issues with the car but I don't have the paper. I went to dealer one time to give it a look but they were not working with me and treated me disrespectful so I gave up and been driving with no horn in car.
NHTSA complaint #11699588 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.