🇩🇪 Deutsch
Hyundai · Compact · 2006–2011

Hyundai Elantra HD

Weaknesses, engine ratings and buying advice

3.0 / 5.0 · Based on 3 engine variants
Most Fun Engine

136–143 PS

2.0L (Beta II) Benzin

Honest compact, no pretense

Decent

Generations


Engine Overview

The Hyundai Elantra HD is available with 3 engine variants — from 95 to 143 hp.

1.6L CRDi · Diesel· 85 PS
2006 2011
Be Careful 6 weaknesses
1.6L (Gamma) · Benziner· 122 PS
2006 2011
Be Careful 5 weaknesses
2.0L (Beta II) · Benziner· 141–143 PS
2006 2011
Be Careful 5 weaknesses

The Hyundai 1.6L CRDi (Diesel, 85 PS) has the D4FB (1.6L CRDi) — rated: "Be Careful", 6 known weaknesses.

The Hyundai 1.6L (Gamma) (Benziner, 122 PS) has the G4FC (1.6L (Gamma)) — rated: "Be Careful", 5 known weaknesses.

The Hyundai 2.0L (Beta II) (Benziner, 141–143 PS) has the G4GC (2.0L (Beta II)) — rated: "Be Careful", 5 known weaknesses.

Vehicle Weaknesses

WeaknessCost
Recall: ABS control unit at risk of short circuit from moisture

The Elantra HD (2006–2011) was subject to a recall due to possible moisture infiltration into the ABS control unit. Short circuits in the control unit can deactivate the ABS or cause a fire risk.

Symptoms: ABS warning light, ABS non-functional, in rare cases fire risk at the control unit
from 60,000 km
Low
Recall: rear control arms dangerously corroded

Hyundai recalled the Elantra HD due to corrosion of the rear control arms. In salt regions, the arms can fracture and the rear axle can suddenly fail, with increased accident risk.

Symptoms: Clunking from the rear axle, vehicle pulls when braking, sudden change in tracking
from 100,000 km
Low
NHTSA Owner Complaints
Below Average
1,917 complaints · 2006–2011
Steering
534 ⚠ 22
Airbags
321 ⚠ 106
Brakes
241 ⚠ 28
Electrical
216 ⚠ 6
Engine
164 ⚠ 8

Top Reported Issues

Steering (534 complaints)
Airbags (321 complaints)
Brakes (241 complaints)
Source: NHTSA (nhtsa.gov) · 2026-03

Alternatives

Same Segment

Honda Insight ZE2

Kompaktklasse (2009–2014)

Same Segment

Mazda 3 BL

Kompaktklasse (2009–2013)

Same Segment

Suzuki SX4 I-FL

Kompaktklasse (2009–2014)

Same Segment

Toyota Prius XW30

Kompaktklasse (2009–2015)

Same Segment

BMW 1er Cabrio E88

Kompaktklasse (2008–2013)

Same Segment

Kia Cerato TD

Kompaktklasse (2008–2013)


Known Problems and Issues

A total of 28 weaknesses have been documented for the Hyundai Elantra HD (2006–2011) — 16 engine-related and 12 vehicle-related. Typical issues affect Other, Steering, Body, Brakes.

Elantra (D4FB, 2006–2011) — Be Careful: EGR cooler coolant leak, VGT turbocharger premature failure, Timing chain stretch. Power: 85 PS.

Elantra (G4FC, 2006–2011) — Be Careful: Timing chain tensioner wear, Elevated oil consumption, Valve stem seals: oil consumption. Power: 122 PS.

Elantra (G4GC, 2006–2011) — Be Careful: CVVT phaser failure from oil quality, Timing chain stretch from 150,000 km, Oil consumption from piston ring wear. Power: 141–143 PS.

What to watch out for with the Hyundai Elantra? See the detailed listing of all engine and vehicle weaknesses in the sections above.

Frequently Asked Questions

What problems and weaknesses does the Hyundai Elantra HD have? +
The Hyundai Elantra HD has 16 known engine weaknesses and 12 vehicle weaknesses.
What should I look for when buying a used Hyundai Elantra HD? +
faq.watch_a_none
Which engine is recommended? +
Be careful: G4FC (1.6L (Gamma)), G4GC (2.0L (Beta II)), D4FB (1.6L CRDi). No engine is rated 'Good Choice'. The most fun to drive is the G4GC (2.0L (Beta II)).
Which Hyundai Elantra HD engine is the most fun? +
The {code} ({displacement}) offers the most driving fun in the Hyundai Elantra HD — rated: "Decent". {description} The Elantra is roomy, reliable, and drives without drama. Not a sports car, not trying to be.
Is the Hyundai Elantra HD worth buying used? +
The Hyundai Elantra HD requires careful consideration — choosing the right engine variant is crucial.
What horsepower variants are available for the Hyundai Elantra HD? +
The Hyundai Elantra HD is available with engine variants from 95 to 143 hp. Petrol: G4FC (1.6L (Gamma)), G4GC (2.0L (Beta II)). Diesel: D4FB (1.6L CRDi).

Last updated: February 2026 · All information without guarantee