Hyundai has a reputation for affordability and reliability. Many models offer great value, modern designs, and generous warranties. But no car brand is perfect. Some Hyundai owners face frustrating issues that make them regret their purchase. If you’re considering a Hyundai, here are some downsides you should know about before signing the papers.
1. Engine Failures in Certain Models
Some Hyundai models have a history of catastrophic engine failures. The 2011-2014 Sonata and Santa Fe, along with the 2013-2014 Tucson, suffered from defective Theta II engines. Many owners experienced knocking noises, loss of power, and even complete engine failure. Hyundai issued recalls and extended warranties, but some drivers still faced costly repairs.
2. Poor Paint Quality
Hyundai vehicles are notorious for chipping and peeling paint, especially on older models. The 2011-2016 Elantra and Sonata are common culprits. Owners report large chunks of paint flaking off, exposing bare metal. Hyundai has acknowledged the issue but hasn’t always provided free repairs, leaving some owners with expensive bodywork bills.
3. Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) Problems
Many Hyundai models with dual-clutch transmissions suffer from hesitation, jerking, and failure to engage gears properly. The 2016-2020 Tucson and Kona, as well as the 2016-2017 Veloster, have been particularly problematic. Owners complain of rough shifts and delayed acceleration, making for an unpleasant driving experience. Some transmissions required complete replacements.
4. Weak Resale Value
Compared to brands like Toyota and Honda, Hyundai vehicles depreciate faster. Even popular models like the Sonata and Tucson lose value quickly. Buyers looking for long-term ownership might not mind, but those who plan to sell or trade in their Hyundai could be disappointed by low offers. Rapid depreciation means you might lose more money in the long run.
5. Infotainment System Glitches
Hyundai’s infotainment systems can be frustratingly buggy. Touchscreens in models like the 2017-2022 Elantra and Sonata sometimes freeze or go blank. Connectivity issues with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are common. Software updates help, but some owners still experience lag and system crashes.
6. Steering Issues
Some Hyundai models suffer from loose or unresponsive steering. The 2011-2015 Sonata had problems with its steering coupler, leading to a clunky feel and even loss of control in extreme cases. Owners reported difficulty keeping the car straight on the highway. Hyundai issued service campaigns, but the issue left many drivers frustrated.
7. Short Battery Life
Hyundai owners frequently complain about weak or quickly dying batteries. Models like the 2015-2020 Sonata Hybrid and the 2016-2019 Tucson often require battery replacements sooner than expected. Some drivers experience dead batteries even with low mileage. Electrical system drains might be to blame, leading to inconvenient breakdowns.
8. Noisy Ride Quality
Hyundai vehicles aren’t known for quiet cabins. The Elantra and Tucson, particularly from 2016-2021, let in excessive road and wind noise. Poor insulation means long drives can be tiring. Some owners add aftermarket soundproofing to improve comfort.
9. Transmission Hesitation in CVT Models
Hyundai’s continuously variable transmissions (CVTs) don’t always perform smoothly. The 2019-2022 Elantra and Kona with CVTs suffer from sluggish acceleration and unpredictable power delivery. Some owners experience shuddering and jerking at low speeds. CVT problems can be costly to fix if they fail outside the warranty.
10. Dealership Service Complaints
Many Hyundai owners report poor experiences at dealerships. Complaints range from long wait times for repairs to denied warranty claims. Some service departments struggle with diagnosing recurring problems. Owners often have to push for recalls or warranty fixes, leading to frustration and extra costs.
Hyundai makes solid cars, but they aren’t perfect. Some models have serious reliability concerns, and resale value lags behind competitors. Transmission quirks, infotainment bugs, and service headaches can make ownership frustrating. If you’re set on a Hyundai, research specific models and years to avoid the worst issues. A little homework now can save you trouble later.
