2017 Hyundai Elantra Safety Report
2017 Hyundai Elantra: Strong crash ratings, but high engine failure complaints and multiple safety recalls raise reliability concerns.
AI Safety Analysis for the 2017 Hyundai Elantra
Reliability Score
The 2017 Hyundai Elantra receives a reliability score of 55 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.
Known Issues for the 2017 Hyundai Elantra
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2017 Hyundai Elantra:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine Stalling/Failure Numerous complaints (161) detail unexpected engine stalling, knocking, excessive oil consumption, and complete engine seizure, often without warning lights, leading to loss of motive power. |
High | Common | unknown miles |
| Loss Of Electric Power Steering A recall addresses a damaged Electronic Power Steering (MDPS) connector, which can result in a loss of power steering assist, requiring higher steering effort and increasing crash risk. |
High | Occasional | unknown miles |
| Brake Booster Failure A recall indicates potential brake booster failure, leading to a loss of power brake assist and increased stopping distances, raising the risk of a crash. |
High | Occasional | unknown miles |
| Airbag Non-Deployment/Malfunction Two recalls address frontal airbag issues, where airbags may not inflate fully or at all in a crash, increasing the risk of injury. Complaints also mention passenger airbag not activating reliably. |
High | Occasional | unknown miles |
| Dual Clutch Transmission (Dct) Failure At least one complaint specifically mentions dual clutch transmission failure at 49,000 miles, leading to the car not going. |
High | Rare | 49000 miles |
| Steering Column Worm Shaft Bearing Issue A TSB (20-ST-003H-1) addresses issues with the steering column worm shaft bearing, causing intermittent loose and unresponsive steering. |
Medium | Rare | unknown miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2017 Hyundai Elantra:
The most reported issue, with 161 complaints, involves engine stalling, knocking, excessive oil consumption, and complete engine failure, often without warning.
104 complaints, primarily related to paint chipping and peeling on various body panels, including the hood and roof.
68 complaints categorized as 'unknown or other' often describe general mechanical issues, unresolved dealer problems, or broad safety concerns.
44 complaints, including issues with the steering wheel locking, difficulty turning, and loss of power steering assist, aligning with a recall.
44 complaints, with specific mentions of driver's window not operating and both driver and passenger doors failing to open from the outside.
24 complaints, including issues like headlight warning lights, electrical fires, and general electrical malfunctions.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2017 Hyundai Elantra
Is the 2017 Hyundai Elantra safe?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2017 Hyundai Elantra received strong 4-star ratings in all crash tests (Overall, Frontal, Side, Rollover), indicating good occupant protection. However, it has 750 total complaints, including 36 crashes, 5 fires, and 23 injuries, with a significant number related to severe engine failures and four safety recalls addressing critical components like steering, brakes, and airbags. While crash protection is good, the high volume of mechanical complaints, particularly engine-related, raises concerns about long-term reliability and potential for sudden safety incidents.
What are common problems with the 2017 Hyundai Elantra?
The most reported issues for the 2017 Hyundai Elantra are engine-related, with 161 complaints (21.5% of total) detailing stalling, knocking, excessive oil consumption, and engine seizure. Other common problems include structural issues like paint chipping (104 complaints), steering problems (44 complaints), and issues with latches/locks/linkages (44 complaints), such as windows not operating or doors failing to open.
Has the 2017 Hyundai Elantra had any recalls?
Yes, the 2017 Hyundai Elantra has had four safety recalls. These include recalls for potential loss of electric power steering assist, brake booster failure leading to increased stopping distances, and two separate recalls addressing issues with frontal airbag inflation that could increase injury risk in a crash.
Are there any fire risks with the 2017 Hyundai Elantra?
NHTSA data shows 5 reported fires for the 2017 Hyundai Elantra. At least one complaint specifically describes an electrical fire with smoke and flames seen underneath the car after the vehicle stalled on the highway, indicating a potential fire risk, particularly related to electrical or engine components.
What should I look out for when buying a used 2017 Hyundai Elantra?
When considering a used 2017 Hyundai Elantra, pay close attention to any signs of engine trouble, such as knocking noises, excessive oil consumption, or hesitation/stalling during a test drive. Verify that all four safety recalls (steering, brakes, and two airbag recalls) have been completed. Also, check for proper operation of the power steering, brakes, and all airbags, and inspect for any paint peeling issues.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: Given the strong crash ratings but significant engine-related complaints and multiple safety recalls, thoroughly inspect the engine for any issues and ensure all recalls have been addressed before purchasing a 2017 Hyundai Elantra.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2017 Hyundai Elantra
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2017 Hyundai Elantra. The data includes 750 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 4 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 36 reported crashes, 5 fire incidents, 23 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2017 Hyundai Elantra 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.