GradeHyundai Elantra Reliability Grade
Average reliability
Grade a specific Hyundai Elantra
Reliability changes from year to year. Pick a model year to see its grade, then add mileage and price to get a deal score and estimated miles remaining.
The Hyundai Elantra earns a B- overall reliability grade from GradeMyCar, with a C+ for its engine and a B for its transmission. It ranks 12th of 14 compact cars we grade. The engine (C+) is the weaker of its two major components, so ask for oil-change records and have a mechanic check for leaks and oil consumption. Grades are based on 4,308 owner complaints filed with NHTSA for the 2013-2023 model years, adjusted for how many were sold.
Hyundai Elantra reliability by year
Overall grade for each model year, from owner complaints filed with NHTSA. Tap a year to see its full grade.
Best years: 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006 and 2007
Faded years are recent, so fewer complaints have come in. Their grades may change.
How long does the Hyundai Elantra last?
A rough estimate for the model across all years, not measured for each model year.
Hyundai Elantra vs. other compact cars
| Model | Engine | Trans. | Overall |
|---|---|---|---|
| Toyota Corolla | A | A | A |
| Mazda Mazda3 | A | A | A |
| Subaru Impreza | A | A | A |
| Toyota Prius | A | A | A |
| Honda Civic | A- | A | A- |
| Nissan Versa | A- | B- | A- |
| Chevrolet Cruze | B+ | B | A- |
| Nissan Sentra | A | B- | B+ |
| Kia Forte | B- | B+ | B+ |
| Volkswagen Jetta | B | B+ | B+ |
| Volkswagen Golf | B | B | B |
| Hyundai Elantra | C+ | B | B- |
| Ford Fiesta | C+ | F | D |
| Ford Focus | F | F | F |
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Rate your ElantraHyundai Elantra reliability FAQ
Is the Hyundai Elantra reliable?
Average reliability. The Hyundai Elantra earns a B- overall reliability grade from GradeMyCar, with a C+ for its engine and a B for its transmission. It ranks 12th of 14 compact cars we grade. The engine (C+) is the weaker of its two major components, so ask for oil-change records and have a mechanic check for leaks and oil consumption. Grades are based on 4,308 owner complaints filed with NHTSA for the 2013-2023 model years, adjusted for how many were sold.
How many miles will a Hyundai Elantra last?
We estimate a well-maintained Hyundai Elantra lasts around 190,000 miles. That's a rough figure for the model across all years, not measured for each model year, so check the grade for the year you're looking at.
What are the best years for the Hyundai Elantra?
Based on NHTSA owner complaints, the most reliable Hyundai Elantra model years are 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006 and 2007.
What Hyundai Elantra years should I avoid?
No Hyundai Elantra model year stands out as a problem year in NHTSA owner complaints.
Is the Hyundai Elantra transmission reliable?
GradeMyCar grades the Hyundai Elantra transmission a B (above-average reliability). Reliability varies by model year, so grade the specific year you're looking at.
Is the Hyundai Elantra engine reliable?
GradeMyCar grades the Hyundai Elantra engine a C+ (average reliability).