What weaknesses does the Hyundai Elantra MD have?

	Weakness	Cost
✖	ABS module brake-fluid leak / engine-bay fire (Recall 251 / 23V-651) ABS hydraulic control unit can leak brake fluid internally, short-circuit the module and ignite. NHTSA Recall 23V-651 covers 1.64M Hyundai/Kia incl. Elantra MD; remedy is ABS fuse replacement. Park outside until repaired. Symptoms: Burning smell from engine bay, ABS warning light, smoke at standstill or while parked Ad ABS module Elantra MD ABS hydraulic unit Hyundai Elantra	Low
!	MAF sensor harness vibration causes low-speed stall Engine vibration interrupts the MAF sensor connector signal, causing intermittent low-speed stalls. NHTSA-documented across all MY Elantra MD; raises crash risk in traffic. Symptoms: Engine cuts out at low speed or idle, restarts immediately, occasional CEL from 80,000 km Ad 28164-2G000 MAF sensor Elantra	Low

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Known Problems and Issues

A total of 28 weaknesses have been documented for the Hyundai Elantra MD (2011–2016) — 21 engine-related and 7 vehicle-related. 2 problem engines: G4FJ (1.6L T-GDI (Gamma II)), G4NA (2.0L MPI (Nu)). Typical issues affect Electronics, Brakes, Steering, Suspension.

Elantra (G4NB, 2011–2016) — Be Careful: Timing Chain Stretch, Oil Consumption from Cylinder Bore Ovality, Connecting Rod Bearings: Wear from Oil Starvation. Power: 150 PS.

Elantra (G4FJ, 2014–2016) — Stay Away!: Fuel contamination of engine oil, Turbocharger oil coking, LSPI: pre-ignition at low rpm. Power: 204 PS.

Elantra (G4NA, 2015–2020) — Stay Away!: Timing Chain Stretch and Jumping, Cylinder Bore Scoring from Catalytic Converter Disintegration, Recall: Cylinder Bore Scuffing (Piston Rings). Power: 152 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 MD have? +

The Hyundai Elantra MD has 21 known engine weaknesses and 7 vehicle weaknesses.

What should I look for when buying a used Hyundai Elantra MD? +

faq.watch_a_avoid

Which engine is recommended? +

Be careful: G4NB (1.8L (Nu)). No engine is rated 'Good Choice'. The most fun to drive is the G4FJ (1.6L T-GDI (Gamma II)). Problem engine: G4FJ (1.6L T-GDI (Gamma II)) — stay away!

Which Hyundai Elantra MD engine is the most fun? +

The {code} ({displacement}) offers the most driving fun in the Hyundai Elantra MD — rated: "Fun to Drive!". {description} The 1.6 T-GDI in the Elantra Sport delivers 201 hp to the front axle. With 6-speed manual and firmer suspension it's one of the rare Hyundai sedans with genuine fun factor.

Is the Hyundai Elantra MD worth buying used? +

Caution is advised with the Hyundai Elantra MD — 2 of 3 engine variants are rated 'Stay Away!'. The engine choice is crucial.

What horsepower variants are available for the Hyundai Elantra MD? +

The Hyundai Elantra MD is available with engine variants from 150 to 186 hp. Petrol: G4FJ (1.6L T-GDI (Gamma II)), G4NB (1.8L (Nu)), G4NA (2.0L MPI (Nu)).

Last updated: February 2026 · All information without guarantee