Car Yearsto Avoid

2020 Hyundai Elantra Engine Problems

From NHTSA owner complaints and recalls. Updated Oct 17, 2026.

How common are engine problems on the 2020 Hyundai Elantra?

111 owners have reported engine problems on the 2020 Hyundai Elantra, 44% of all complaints for this year and the most reported problem area. Most reported problems happened at about 5,000–72,000 miles. 1 recall covers this area.

111 complaints 44% of all 2020 complaints 31,000 miles typical

Which parts fail

The specific part named in each complaint.

Exhaust system 1
Pressure / temperature sensor 1

Mileage when it failed

Each dot is a complaint that gave a mileage (32 of 111). The amber line is the middle value.

When problems were reported

Engine complaints by the year the problem happened.

Engine complaints by Elantra year

2008 Elantra 41
2009 Elantra 13
2010 Elantra 20
2011 Elantra 97
2015 Elantra 95
2020 Elantra 111
2021 Elantra 16
2022 Elantra 11
2023 Elantra 20
2024 Elantra 8

Related recalls

Engine

Fire risk

0L Nu MPI engines. The piston oil rings may not have been properly heat-treated, which could result in engine damage. A damaged engine may stall, increasing the risk of a crash. In addition, oil may leak onto hot exhaust components, increasing the risk of a fire.

Fix: Dealers will inspect and, if necessary, replace the engine, free of charge. In addition, Hyundai will deploy Piston Ring Noise Sensing System (PNSS) software.

Recall 21V301000 · Apr 2021
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Common questions

What are common 2020 Hyundai Elantra engine problems?

Complaints most often name the exhaust system and pressure / temperature sensor.

At what mileage do 2020 Hyundai Elantra engine problems happen?

Most complaints that gave a mileage fell between about 5,000–72,000 miles. The middle value is about 31,000 miles.

Is there a recall for 2020 Hyundai Elantra engine problems?

Yes: 21V301000. Check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls to see if the work was done.

Which Elantra year has the most engine complaints?

The 2017 Elantra, with 292 complaints.

Source: NHTSA complaints and recalls databases. Complaints are unverified owner reports.