2011 Hyundai Elantra Report
Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.
Overall Score
Key Takeaways
- Significant safety concerns exist, including a documented risk of engine compartment fires due to ABS module leaks.
- Numerous owner complaints point to chronic issues with the engine, airbags, steering, and suspension.
- Six safety recalls have been issued, requiring careful verification of completed repairs, especially for the ABS module.
- Fuel economy is a strong point, with a combined 32 MPG.
2011 Hyundai Elantra
The 2011 Hyundai Elantra offers respectable fuel economy for its class, achieving an EPA-estimated 32 MPG combined. However, its appeal as a used vehicle is significantly tempered by a substantial number of safety recalls and owner complaints. The vehicle has six safety recalls, with a critical one addressing potential brake fluid leaks in the ABS module that could lead to engine compartment fires. Owner complaints are numerous, with the most frequent issues involving the engine, airbags, steering, suspension, and electrical system. These widespread concerns, particularly the fire risk and frequent mechanical issues, demand thorough inspection.
Critical Failure Risk
Frequent complaints include stalling, rough idle, and starting problems. Some reports suggest potential catastrophic failures like rod knock and metal shavings in oil, indicating significant internal wear.
Early detection can help you avoid a $500-$5,000 repair.
Safety & Bulletins
Owner Complaints
Performance & Efficiency
Reliability
Practicality
Who This Car Is For
Best for
Budget-conscious buyers prioritizing fuel economy over long-term reliability.
+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report
Avoid if
Buyers seeking a dependable, trouble-free daily driver.
+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report
2011 Hyundai Elantra Reliability Analysis
Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2011 Hyundai Elantra.
Vehicle Specs
- Fuel Type
- Regular
- Seating Capacity
- 5
- Transmission
- Automatic 6-spd
- Drivetrain
- Front-Wheel Drive
- Body Style
- Wagon
- EPA Combined MPG
- 32
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Most Common Issues
1. ENGINE
Most reportedUsage: 91 reports
2. Airbags
Usage: 76 reports
First Service Interval
- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection
Est. shop cost: $80 - $120
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FAQ
Is the 2011 Hyundai Elantra reliable?
The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2011 Hyundai Elantra is 6.7/10. Reliability score is 6.7/10. NHTSA recalls: 6. Owner complaints: 585.
How practical is the 2011 Hyundai Elantra for daily use?
Practicality score is 6.2/10. EPA combined economy is 32 MPG. Seating capacity is 5. 4 passenger doors are listed.
What is the overall score for the 2011 Hyundai Elantra?
The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2011 Hyundai Elantra is 6.9/10. Overall score is 6.9/10 (Good). Confidence 55%. Maintenance 8.2/10. Practicality 6.2/10.
What does it cost to own and maintain a 2011 Hyundai Elantra?
Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $400 - $600. Repair prediction highlight: Engine (typical at 90,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $1,500 • Max: $5,000+).
What engine is in the 2011 Hyundai Elantra?
Engine specs list 4 • 1.8.
What transmission does the 2011 Hyundai Elantra use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2011 Hyundai Elantra, transmission is Automatic 6-spd. The paired drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive.
What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2011 Hyundai Elantra?
EPA combined estimate is 32 MPG.
What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2011 Hyundai Elantra?
1 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Tire Pressure Monitoring System.
How many people fit in a 2011 Hyundai Elantra?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2011 Hyundai Elantra, seating capacity is 5.
What body style is the 2011 Hyundai Elantra?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2011 Hyundai Elantra, body style is wagon.
What drivetrain does the 2011 Hyundai Elantra use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2011 Hyundai Elantra, drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic 6-spd.
What are the most common engine problems on the 2011 Hyundai Elantra?
Top complaint category: engine (91 reports, 15.6% of complaints).
Are there open safety recalls on the 2011 Hyundai Elantra?
This model year has 6 official safety campaigns listed.
Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2011 Hyundai Elantra?
Alternatives listed in this guide: 2011 Honda Civic and 2011 Toyota Corolla.