What are the most common problems with the 2021 Hyundai Elantra?

Significant recall activity, totaling 18 campaigns, warrants careful inspection, especially for seat belt pretensioner issues.

How many recalls does the 2021 Hyundai Elantra have?

The 2021 Hyundai Elantra currently has 18 recalls on file. Review the full recall report to see affected components and available remedies.

Is the 2021 Hyundai Elantra a good buy used?

Verdict: Proceed with caution. Significant recall activity, totaling 18 campaigns, warrants careful inspection, especially for seat belt pretensioner issues. Consumer complaints highlight problems with **forward collision avoidance** systems and the **electrical system**, suggesting potential ADAS and control module vulnerabilities. The **seat belt** system is a recurring concern, with multiple recalls and complaints pointing to potential component failures. Despite a 5-star overall safety rating, specific system failures at low mileage indicate potential quality control challenges. Fuel economy is a strong point, with a combined EPA rating of 28 MPG, contributing to reasonable running costs. Always verify service history, open recalls, and maintenance records before purchasing.

What maintenance costs should I expect for the 2021 Hyundai Elantra?

Refer to the maintenance cost guide for interval schedules, DIY difficulty ratings, and typical repair cost ranges for the 2021 Hyundai Elantra.

2021 Hyundai Elantra Report

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

Updated May 30, 2026Ethan Miller

Overall Score

Our Verdict

Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

Significant recall activity, totaling 18 campaigns, warrants careful inspection, especially for seat belt pretensioner issues.
Consumer complaints highlight problems with forward collision avoidance systems and the electrical system, suggesting potential ADAS and control module vulnerabilities.
The seat belt system is a recurring concern, with multiple recalls and complaints pointing to potential component failures.
Despite a 5-star overall safety rating, specific system failures at low mileage indicate potential quality control challenges.

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Overview

2021 Hyundai Elantra

The 2021 Hyundai Elantra offers a modern design and decent fuel economy, but its used-car appeal is tempered by a notable number of recalls and consumer complaints. While it achieved a 5-star overall safety rating from NHTSA, potential buyers should be aware of recurring issues, particularly concerning safety-critical systems. The vehicle's below-average reliability verdict stems from persistent problems that can impact ownership experience and potentially lead to unexpected repair costs.

Critical Failure Risk

Complaints indicate issues with warnings and adaptive cruise control, suggesting potential sensor or software problems. These can lead to false activations or system failures.

Early detection can help you avoid a $100-$500 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls18

Service Bulletins0

Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

193

Forward Collision Avoidance: Warnings28

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-conscious shoppers prioritizing fuel efficiency and modern features.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Drivers prioritizing long-term, worry-free reliability.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2021 Hyundai Elantra Reliability Analysis

Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type: Regular
Seating Capacity: 5
Transmission: Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)
Drivetrain: FWD/Front-Wheel Drive
Body Style: Wagon
EPA Combined MPG: 28

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Most Common Issues

1. FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: WARNINGS

Most reported

Usage: 28 reports

2. Seats

Usage: 24 reports

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

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

Est. shop cost: $100 - $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 (5 service intervals)

Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context

Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it

Full specs and trim-level context

18 recall campaign details & remedy notes

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FAQ

Is the 2021 Hyundai Elantra reliable?

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2021 Hyundai Elantra is 7.0/10. Reliability score is 7.0/10. NHTSA recalls: 18. Owner complaints: 193.

How practical is the 2021 Hyundai Elantra for daily use?

Practicality score is 5.0/10. EPA combined economy is 28 MPG. Seating capacity is 5.

What is the overall score for the 2021 Hyundai Elantra?

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2021 Hyundai Elantra is 7.5/10. Overall score is 7.5/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.5/10. Practicality 5.0/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2021 Hyundai Elantra?

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change and Filter Replacement (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brakes - Inspect Wiper Blades at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $400 - $600. Repair prediction highlight: Forward Collision Avoidance System (typical at 45,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $300 • Max: $1,500).

What engine is in the 2021 Hyundai Elantra?

Engine specs list 4 • 1.6.

What transmission does the 2021 Hyundai Elantra use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Hyundai Elantra, transmission is Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). The paired drivetrain is FWD/Front-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2021 Hyundai Elantra?

EPA combined estimate is 28 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2021 Hyundai Elantra?

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

How many people fit in a 2021 Hyundai Elantra?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Hyundai Elantra, seating capacity is 5.

What body style is the 2021 Hyundai Elantra?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Hyundai Elantra, body style is wagon.

What drivetrain does the 2021 Hyundai Elantra use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Hyundai Elantra, drivetrain is FWD/Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT).

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2021 Hyundai Elantra?

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

What are the most common forward collision avoidance: warnings problems on the 2021 Hyundai Elantra?

Top complaint category: forward collision avoidance: warnings (28 reports, 14.5% of complaints).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2021 Hyundai Elantra?

This model year has 18 official safety campaigns listed.

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2021 Hyundai Elantra?

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2021 Honda Civic and 2021 Toyota Corolla.