2021 Hyundai Accent Report
Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Overall Score
Key Takeaways
- The wheel lug nut and bolt integrity is a significant concern, with multiple reports of failures that could lead to wheel detachment.
- Critical recalls related to steering column detachment and brake master cylinder issues warrant careful attention and verification of completion.
- While overall safety ratings are good, recurring issues with seat belt pretensioners and engine components require thorough inspection.
- Fuel economy is a strong suit, offering low running costs at the pump with a combined 33 MPG.
2021 Hyundai Accent
The 2021 Hyundai Accent offers an economical and generally safe compact car option for used shoppers. It boasts impressive EPA estimated fuel economy, achieving up to 33 MPG combined. Safety ratings are solid, with an overall 4 out of 5 stars from NHTSA, including a perfect 5-star rating for side crash performance. However, a notable number of recalls (8) and owner complaints (22) point to potential ownership challenges. Key areas of concern include the seat belts, wheels (specifically lug nuts/bolts/studs), and the engine. These issues, coupled with a below-average LLM reliability score, suggest that potential buyers should be vigilant.
Critical Failure Risk
Reports indicate wheel lug nuts can fail, particularly during removal or routine maintenance, raising concerns about wheel detachment. This issue is a significant safety risk.
Early detection can help you avoid a $300-$1,500 repair.
Safety & Bulletins
Owner Complaints
Performance & Efficiency
Reliability
Practicality
Who This Car Is For
Best for
Budget-conscious buyers prioritizing fuel efficiency and basic transportation.
+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report
Avoid if
Buyers seeking a vehicle with a flawless reliability record.
+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report
2021 Hyundai Accent Reliability Analysis
Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2021 Hyundai Accent.
Vehicle Specs
- Fuel Type
- Regular
- Seating Capacity
- 5
- Transmission
- Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)
- Drivetrain
- FWD/Front-Wheel Drive
- Body Style
- Hatchback
- EPA Combined MPG
- 33
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Most Common Issues
1. Seats
Most reportedUsage: 6 reports
2. WHEELS
Usage: 5 reports
First Service Interval
- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake System Inspection - Inspect Wheel Lug Nuts
Est. shop cost: $75 - $125
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FAQ
Is the 2021 Hyundai Accent reliable?
The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2021 Hyundai Accent is 8.1/10. Reliability score is 8.1/10. NHTSA recalls: 8. Owner complaints: 22.
How practical is the 2021 Hyundai Accent for daily use?
Practicality score is 5.9/10. EPA combined economy is 33 MPG. Seating capacity is 5.
What is the overall score for the 2021 Hyundai Accent?
The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2021 Hyundai Accent is 7.8/10. Overall score is 7.8/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.5/10. Practicality 5.9/10.
What does it cost to own and maintain a 2021 Hyundai Accent?
Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake System Inspection - Inspect Wheel Lug Nuts at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $300 - $500. Repair prediction highlight: Wheel Lug Nuts (typical at 30,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $50 • Max: $200).
What engine is in the 2021 Hyundai Accent?
Engine specs list 4 • 1.6.
What transmission does the 2021 Hyundai Accent use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Hyundai Accent, transmission is Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). The paired drivetrain is FWD/Front-Wheel Drive.
What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2021 Hyundai Accent?
EPA combined estimate is 33 MPG.
What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2021 Hyundai Accent?
9 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.
How many people fit in a 2021 Hyundai Accent?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Hyundai Accent, seating capacity is 5.
What body style is the 2021 Hyundai Accent?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Hyundai Accent, body style is hatchback.
What drivetrain does the 2021 Hyundai Accent use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Hyundai Accent, drivetrain is FWD/Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT).
What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2021 Hyundai Accent?
NHTSA ratings: Overall 4/5 • Frontal 4/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.
What are the most common seat belts problems on the 2021 Hyundai Accent?
Top complaint category: seat belts (6 reports, 27.3% of complaints).
Are there open safety recalls on the 2021 Hyundai Accent?
This model year has 8 official safety campaigns listed.
Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2021 Hyundai Accent?
Alternatives listed in this guide: 2021 Honda Civic and 2021 Toyota Corolla.