2020 Hyundai Elantra Gt Safety Report
2020 Hyundai Elantra GT Safety Report
Safety Decision Cockpit for the 2020 Hyundai Elantra Gt
This page is the hub for deciding what to inspect next on the 2020 Hyundai Elantra Gt. It connects recall campaigns, owner complaint patterns, service bulletins, sibling model years, component issue hubs, and the model buying guide so a shopper or owner can move from a single report into the wider safety graph.
| Signal | Value | What to inspect next |
|---|---|---|
| Recall burden | Low (0) | Review campaign numbers, affected components, and dealer remedies below. |
| Owner complaints | High (192) | Scan complaint narratives for recurring symptoms, mileage, crashes, fires, injuries, and dates. |
| Crash and fire reports | 24 | Treat any crash, fire, injury, or fatality-linked pattern as a priority pre-purchase inspection item. |
| Primary component hub | Engine | Compare engine issues across vehicles. |
| Cleaner nearby model year | 2018 | Compare against the 2018 Hyundai Elantra Gt with 48 complaints and 1 recalls. |
| Riskier nearby model year | 2017 | Check the 2017 Hyundai Elantra Gt before buying across this generation. |
Hyundai Elantra Gt Year-by-Year Comparison
The safest purchase decision usually comes from comparing neighboring model years, not reading a single page in isolation. The table below uses only validated Hyundai Elantra Gt years already present in the cleaned NHTSA dataset, so each comparison links to a real vehicle safety report rather than a generated combination.
| Model Year | Complaints | Recalls | Use case |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2019 Hyundai Elantra Gt | 195 | 0 | Inspect as a potentially higher-complaint year. |
| 2018 Hyundai Elantra Gt | 48 | 1 | Compare as a potentially cleaner alternative. |
| 2017 Hyundai Elantra Gt | 728 | 0 | Inspect as a potentially higher-complaint year. |
| 2016 Hyundai Elantra Gt | 267 | 0 | Inspect as a potentially higher-complaint year. |
| 2015 Hyundai Elantra Gt | 248 | 0 | Inspect as a potentially higher-complaint year. |
2020 Hyundai Elantra Gt Complaint Theme Map
Complaint counts become more useful when they are grouped into inspection themes. For the 2020 Hyundai Elantra Gt, these are the component areas with the clearest NHTSA complaint signals. Use each link to jump from this single vehicle into broader component hubs and make-specific issue pages.
Engine
55 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Engine issues Hyundai onlyPower Train
23 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Power Train issues Hyundai onlyExterior Lighting
15 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Exterior Lighting issues Hyundai onlyUnknown Or Other
12 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Unknown Or Other issues Hyundai onlyPower Train,Engine
9 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Power Train,Engine issues Hyundai onlySteering
7 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Steering issues Hyundai onlyAI Safety Analysis for the 2020 Hyundai Elantra Gt
Reliability Score
The 2020 Hyundai Elantra Gt receives a reliability score of 45 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates average reliability — some notable concerns exist that prospective buyers should be aware of.
NHTSA Safety Ratings for the 2020 Hyundai Elantra Gt
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) evaluates vehicles through controlled crash tests and assigns star ratings from 1 to 5, with 5 being the safest.
Known Issues for the 2020 Hyundai Elantra Gt
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2020 Hyundai Elantra Gt:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Headlight Bulb Failure Driver and passenger side headlight bulbs have required frequent replacement, indicating potential issues with the lighting system. |
High | Common | 30k-60k miles |
| Backup Camera Malfunction The backup camera has malfunctioned, with the screen remaining blank or turning blue, affecting the driver's rear visibility. |
Medium | Common | 30k-60k miles |
| Engine Timing Chain Failure Engine timing chains are failing, likely due to a recall campaign, and the oil contamination issue has affected the vehicle's performance. |
High | Common | 30k-60k miles |
| Non-Start Issues The vehicle has experienced multiple non-starts, and the traction control warning light has come on unexpectedly, impacting reliability. |
Medium | Common | 30k-60k miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2020 Hyundai Elantra Gt:
Frequent replacement of headlight bulbs, indicating potential issues with the lighting system.
Backup camera has malfunctioned, affecting the driver's rear visibility.
Engine timing chains are failing, likely due to a recall campaign, and the oil contamination issue has affected the vehicle's performance.
The vehicle has experienced multiple non-starts, and the traction control warning light has come on unexpectedly.
NHTSA Complaint Summaries for the 2020 Hyundai Elantra Gt
Below are complaint narratives filed by owners of the 2020 Hyundai Elantra Gt with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. 3 complaints involved crashes. 3 involved fires. 2 reported injuries or fatalities.
Both headlights bulbs needed to be replaced several times. Passenger replacement bulb 3 times. Drivers side twice. I have sent Hyundai several emails and have not heard back from them. case # [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
The backup camera no longer works. The screen remains blank or turns blue.
NO INCIDENT - HIGH BEAMS INOP.
Fuel pump keeps on failing I replaced it 3 time.
The contact owns a 2020 Hyundai Elantra. The contact stated that while attempting to turn at approximately 5 MPH, the traction control warning light illuminated. The contact pulled over to the shoulder of the road and restarted the vehicle; however, the vehicle failed to accelerate as intended while the accelerator pedal was depressed. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle wa...
The contact owns a 2020 Hyundai Elantra. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle hesitated and lost automotive power. No warning lights were illuminated. The local dealer was contacted; however, the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact stated that an appointment with the dealer was scheduled to inspect the vehicle. The manufacturer was not made awar...
Engine timing chains are failing in a direct result from recall campaign ID 21V301000 Piston ring noise sensing system which contaminated my oil accelerating wear on my engine chain and sprockets. A failed or ineffective piston ring noise sensing system can let piston/ring damage go unchecked, leading to oil contamination, which in turn wears out or destroys the timing chain system.
My name is [XXX] , and I am the owner of a 2020 Hyundai Elantra SE with approximately 93,000 miles (VIN: [XXX] ). I am writing to express my concern regarding the safety and security of my vehicle, particularly due to the increasing reports of thefts involving similar Hyundai models. As a student, my vehicle is essential for my daily commute and responsibilities. The ongoing theft issues have mad...
I experienced engine failure with this make and model out of no where. Seen online recalls in the past for same make, year, and model. Dealership and and corporate are not helping me one bit, threatening to charge me for storage, lied about my corporate case being denied, when I have email evidence it was still open, and now zero contact back from Hyundai corporation. I'm trying to seek legal advi...
Vehicle had several non-starts. I took it to the dealer a couple of times and they could not duplicate the problem. This problem continued for a couple years before I took it to an independent mechanic. Said mechanic put it on a lift and found a loose power cable barely connected to the starter. Luckily this never caused a short, spark, or fire. From my searching online it appears this is a non-in...
The contact owns a 2020 Hyundai Elantra. The contact assisted in jumpstarting another vehicle with battery failure. The contact stated that the vehicle failed to start the next day after several attempts. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact stated that the TPMS warning light had been illuminated prior to the failure. Due to the failure, the vehicle was towed to two separate indepen...
driver side brake light went out I did have it repaired right away since I knew it was a safety hazard for anyone behind me. And sometimes I do see the same model on the road with the same issue. I don't think the running light is a safety issue but also have a problem with that going out also.
Burning oil at any unacceptable rate. I have made sure to have preventative maintenance and oil changes done every 3K miles. Hyundai needs to address this problem that appears to be plaguing many drivers.
Vehicle was recently purchased and brought in to service recall 22-01-030H (TCU Update and IVT Replacement) Fred Bean Hyundai of Langhorne (1106 E Lincoln Highway, Langhorne, PA, 19047) did the software update, but refuses to honor the IVT replacement as part of the recall, despite the transmission not working and needing to be towed to the dealership. They are attempting to charge me a minimum $...
Sunroof stuck in the open position because the headliner failed Dealership says the sunroof can't be closed, even by force, to seal the car while waiting for repairs Two dealerships, a collision auto body shop, and glass repair shop have inspected it and confirmed the sunroof assembly is defective No warnings, problem appeared while driving
The contact owns a 2020 Hyundai Elantra. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the RPM elevated to a high level while depressing the accelerator pedal. There was no warning light illuminated. The failure persisted while depressing the accelerator pedal without a warning light being illuminated. The contact used a code reader to diagnose the vehicle; however, no fault codes were ...
The highbeam is not working, also lowbeam is poor. Also I can not use the car in the night. The Hyundai Customer services is can not help. I said they have campaign to fix the highbeam. TSB number is 20-01-011H
PLEASE SEE UPLOADED (PDF) FILES
The contact owns a 2020 Hyundai Elantra. The contact stated while driving approximately 30 MPH at night, the high beam headlight became inoperable. The contact stated that the high beam on the sign was illuminated on the instrument panel. The contact had taken the vehicle to a dealer who diagnosed that the high beam headlights had failed due to a shutter in the headlight housing that opened and cl...
Every time I go up a hill the slippery road light comes up. It’s hard to drive straight. I have to drive under the speed limit going up hills. Sometimes it won’t even let me park. I hear rattling when I drive over a certain speed limit. When I brake I feel the brake pad pushing back. And now my wheels are making noise when I turn them.
Showing 20 of 192 complaints. Additional complaints are available via the NHTSA database.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2020 Hyundai Elantra Gt
Has the 2020 HYUNDAI ELANTRA GT been recalled?
No, the 2020 HYUNDAI ELANTRA GT has no recalls on record with NHTSA as of our latest data update.
How many complaints does the 2020 HYUNDAI ELANTRA GT have?
The 2020 HYUNDAI ELANTRA GT has 192 complaints filed with NHTSA. Of these, 19 involved crashes. 15 injuries and 2 deaths have been reported.
What is the safety rating for the 2020 HYUNDAI ELANTRA GT?
The 2020 HYUNDAI ELANTRA GT received an overall NHTSA safety rating of good (4/5). Frontal crash: 4/5. Side crash: 4/5. Rollover: 4/5.
What are the most common problems with the 2020 HYUNDAI ELANTRA GT?
The most commonly reported problems with the 2020 HYUNDAI ELANTRA GT involve engine (55 complaints), power train (23 complaints), exterior lighting (15 complaints). Other affected components include unknown or other, power train,engine, steering.
How many crash reports does the 2020 HYUNDAI ELANTRA GT have?
There are 19 crash reports associated with the 2020 HYUNDAI ELANTRA GT out of 192 total complaints (9.9% of complaints involved crashes).
How many fire reports does the 2020 HYUNDAI ELANTRA GT have?
There are 5 fire reports for the 2020 HYUNDAI ELANTRA GT out of 192 total complaints. Fire reports are among the most serious safety concerns tracked by NHTSA.
Are there any deaths reported for the 2020 HYUNDAI ELANTRA GT?
Yes, 2 deaths have been reported in NHTSA complaints for the 2020 HYUNDAI ELANTRA GT. These are self-reported by complainants and do not imply the vehicle caused the death.
How many injuries are reported for the 2020 HYUNDAI ELANTRA GT?
15 injuries have been reported in NHTSA complaints for the 2020 HYUNDAI ELANTRA GT. These are self-reported by vehicle owners as part of their safety complaints.
Should I buy a 2020 HYUNDAI ELANTRA GT?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2020 HYUNDAI ELANTRA GT is acceptable with caveats. It has 192 complaints, 0 recalls, and a good (4/5) safety rating. Note: 2 death(s) have been reported. Always have a pre-purchase inspection done by a qualified mechanic.
What components fail most on the 2020 HYUNDAI ELANTRA GT?
The components with the most failures on the 2020 HYUNDAI ELANTRA GT are: 1. ENGINE (55 complaints), 2. POWER TRAIN (23 complaints), 3. EXTERIOR LIGHTING (15 complaints), 4. UNKNOWN OR OTHER (12 complaints), 5. POWER TRAIN,ENGINE (9 complaints). ENGINE is the single most-reported problem area with 55 complaints.
What should I know before buying a 2020 HYUNDAI ELANTRA GT?
Be cautious of frequent headlight bulb replacements and backup camera malfunctions. Ensure regular maintenance to avoid engine timing chain failures and non-start issues. The 2020 HYUNDAI ELANTRA GT has 192 NHTSA complaints and 0 recalls on record. NHTSA rates it good (4/5).
How reliable is the 2020 HYUNDAI ELANTRA GT?
The 2020 HYUNDAI ELANTRA GT receives a reliability score of 45/100, indicating average reliability. This is based on 192 owner complaints, 0 recalls, and 24 crash/fire reports in the NHTSA database. Key known issues include Headlight Bulb Failure and Backup Camera Malfunction.
What are the known issues with the 2020 HYUNDAI ELANTRA GT?
Known issues with the 2020 HYUNDAI ELANTRA GT include: Headlight Bulb Failure, Backup Camera Malfunction, Engine Timing Chain Failure, Non-Start Issues. These are based on patterns found across 192 NHTSA complaints.
Are there any known issues with the headlights on the 2020 Hyundai Elantra GT?
Yes, the headlights have required frequent replacement, with the passenger side bulb needing to be replaced three times and the driver side twice.
What should I do if my backup camera malfunctions?
Contact a professional mechanic to diagnose and repair the backup camera, as it affects the driver's rear visibility.
How can I prevent engine timing chain failures?
Regular maintenance and following the manufacturer's recommended service intervals can help prevent engine timing chain failures.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: Be cautious of frequent headlight bulb replacements and backup camera malfunctions. Ensure regular maintenance to avoid engine timing chain failures and non-start issues.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2020 Hyundai Elantra Gt
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2020 Hyundai Elantra Gt. The data includes 192 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 0 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 19 reported crashes, 5 fire incidents, 15 reported injuries, and 2 fatalities associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2020 Hyundai Elantra Gt an overall safety rating of 4 out of 5 stars, with a frontal crash rating of 4 stars, a side crash rating of 4 stars, and a rollover rating of 4 stars. These ratings are determined through controlled crash testing conducted by the NHTSA.
All data presented in this report is sourced from public NHTSA databases. Our AI analysis identifies patterns across complaint narratives, correlates them with recall history, and produces the safety assessment above. This analysis is updated as new complaints and recalls are filed with the NHTSA.
Consumers are encouraged to report vehicle safety problems to the NHTSA at nhtsa.gov. If your vehicle is subject to a recall, contact your dealer to schedule the free repair.
Disclaimer: This analysis is AI-generated from NHTSA public data and does not constitute professional automotive or safety advice. Always verify recall status at NHTSA.gov and consult a qualified mechanic.
Analysis last updated: 2026-05-16