What are the most common problems with the 2019 Hyundai Elantra?

Engine issues are the primary concern, with a recall and frequent owner complaints about stalling and failure.

How many recalls does the 2019 Hyundai Elantra have?

The 2019 Hyundai Elantra currently has 1 recall on file. Review the full recall report to see affected components and available remedies.

Is the 2019 Hyundai Elantra a good buy used?

Verdict: Proceed with caution. Engine issues are the primary concern, with a recall and frequent owner complaints about stalling and failure. Exterior lighting problems, particularly with headlights, are common and impact nighttime visibility. Electrical system glitches, including battery drain and sensor issues, require attention. The 2019 Elantra achieves a respectable 4-star overall safety rating from NHTSA. Fuel economy is adequate for the class, with a combined EPA rating of 25 MPG. Always verify service history, open recalls, and maintenance records before purchasing.

What maintenance costs should I expect for the 2019 Hyundai Elantra?

Refer to the maintenance cost guide for interval schedules, DIY difficulty ratings, and typical repair cost ranges for the 2019 Hyundai Elantra.

2019 Hyundai Elantra Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated May 30, 2026Ryan Davis1 Critical Recall

Overall Score

Our Verdict

Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

Engine issues are the primary concern, with a recall and frequent owner complaints about stalling and failure.
Exterior lighting problems, particularly with headlights, are common and impact nighttime visibility.
Electrical system glitches, including battery drain and sensor issues, require attention.
The 2019 Elantra achieves a respectable 4-star overall safety rating from NHTSA.

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Overview

2019 Hyundai Elantra

The 2019 Hyundai Elantra offers a practical package for budget-conscious buyers, but its below-average reliability verdict demands careful consideration. The most pressing issue is engine reliability, with a widespread recall (21V301000) addressing potentially faulty piston oil rings and numerous owner complaints detailing stalling, knocking, and power loss. Beyond the engine, exterior lighting malfunctions and electrical system glitches are also frequent complaints. While it earns a solid 4-star overall safety rating from NHTSA, potential buyers must prioritize a thorough inspection, especially concerning the powertrain and lighting systems.

Critical Failure Risk

A significant number of complaints and a recall point to potential engine problems. These can manifest as knocking, loss of power, stalling, and complete engine failure, sometimes without warning lights.

Early detection can help you avoid a $1,500-$5,000 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls1

Service Bulletins0

Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

293

Engine106

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency

Combined

MPG

City

MPG

Highway

MPG

Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

Practicality

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Budget-minded shoppers prioritizing initial affordability over long-term reliability.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Drivers who expect trouble-free ownership and minimal repair costs.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2019 Hyundai Elantra Reliability Analysis

Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type: Regular
Seating Capacity: 5
Transmission: Manual 6-spd
Drivetrain: Front-Wheel Drive
Body Style: Wagon
EPA Combined MPG: 25

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Most Common Issues

1. ENGINE

Most reported

Usage: 106 reports

2. EXTERIOR LIGHTING

Usage: 48 reports

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brakes

Est. shop cost: $80 - $150

7,500 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist

Complete maintenance schedule (4 service intervals)

Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context

Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it

Full specs and trim-level context

1 recall campaign details & remedy notes

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FAQ

Is the 2019 Hyundai Elantra reliable?

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2019 Hyundai Elantra is 7.0/10. Reliability score is 7.0/10. NHTSA recalls: 1. Owner complaints: 293.

How practical is the 2019 Hyundai Elantra for daily use?

Practicality score is 5.2/10. EPA combined economy is 25 MPG. Seating capacity is 5. 4 passenger doors are listed. Boot capacity is 408 litres.

What is the overall score for the 2019 Hyundai Elantra?

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2019 Hyundai Elantra is 7.1/10. Overall score is 7.1/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.8/10. Practicality 5.2/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2019 Hyundai Elantra?

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brakes at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $300 - $500. Repair prediction highlight: Engine (typical at 70,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $2,000 • Max: $5,000+).

What is the MSRP range for the 2019 Hyundai Elantra?

Base MSRP is $21,050.

What engine is in the 2019 Hyundai Elantra?

Engine specs list 4 • 1.6.

What transmission does the 2019 Hyundai Elantra use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 Hyundai Elantra, transmission is Manual 6-spd. The paired drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2019 Hyundai Elantra?

EPA combined estimate is 25 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2019 Hyundai Elantra?

10 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.

How many people fit in a 2019 Hyundai Elantra?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 Hyundai Elantra, seating capacity is 5.

What body style is the 2019 Hyundai Elantra?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 Hyundai Elantra, body style is wagon.

What drivetrain does the 2019 Hyundai Elantra use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 Hyundai Elantra, drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Manual 6-spd.

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2019 Hyundai Elantra?

NHTSA ratings: Overall 4/5 • Frontal 4/5 • Side 4/5 • Rollover 4/5.

What are the most common engine problems on the 2019 Hyundai Elantra?

Top complaint category: engine (106 reports, 36.2% of complaints).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2019 Hyundai Elantra?

This model year has 1 official safety campaigns listed.

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2019 Hyundai Elantra?

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2019 Honda Civic and 2019 Toyota Corolla.