Hyundai’s sedan models offer affordable alternatives to sensible staples like the Honda Civic and Toyota Camry. However, not every model year of the automaker’s popular sedans is problem-free; used 2013 Hyundai Elantra and 2011 Sonata models exhibit some bothersome owner-reported issues, like engine problems.  

Do 2013 Hyundai Elantras have transmission problems?

Owners of the 2013 Hyundai Elantra complained about transmission problems, including a failure to shift. Specifically, around 304 owners have cited speed sensor failure in 2013 models, which leads to improper operation. Fortunately, RepairPal says the remedy is cheap and straightforward.

Unfortunately, Car Complaints reports that the most frequent owner complaints for the 2013 Hyundai Elantra are engine-related. For instance, nearly 40 owners complained about ticking, and some reported complete engine failure. Unfortunately, some cases required a replacement motor at around 74,000 miles. 

What other issues does the 2013 Hyundai Elantra model have?

In addition to instances of engine and transmission problems, the 2013 Hyundai Elantra has many owner complaints with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) about steering issues. Drivers reported that some 2013 models would pull to one side or wander with no common remedy.  

What are the most common issues with a 2011 Hyundai Sonata?

The most common owner complaints for the 2011 Hyundai Sonata pertain to engine and steering problems. According to the NHTSA, 329 drivers have complained about engine issues ranging from excessive oil consumption to stalling to seizing. The model’s propensity for seizing even earned it a Car Complaints “Turd of the Week” award in 2015.  

Does the 2011 Hyundai Sonata have transmission problems?

In addition to the 2011 Sonata’s engine problems, the model exhibits owner reports of improper transmission operation. However, only 25 NHTSA complaints refer to transmission issues. As a result, transmission problems are an infrequent occurrence.  

How do the Hyundai models stack up against other problematic vehicles?

The 2011 Hyundai Sonata and 2013 Elantra earned the No. 6 and No. 7 spots on Car Complaint’s list of the most problematic vehicles, respectively. The models ranked just behind the 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee and ahead of the 2014 Jeep Cherokee. Unfortunately for Jeep fans, the automaker has six models on the list of 20.  

Should you avoid these Hyundai models?

These Hyundai models’ issues could be problematic for potential owners, especially the 2011 Hyundai Sonata’s engine issues. A seized engine could be an expensive fix and might not be worth repairing. Instead, used vehicle shoppers might be better off with an alternative, like a 2008 Hyundai Elantra or a 2012 Toyota Corolla. 

What do you think about these used Hyundai models? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!