2015 Hyundai Veloster Safety Report

The 2015 Hyundai Veloster presents a mixed safety picture. While it achieved strong crash test ratings from NHTSA, including a 5-star overall rating, 5-star side impact, and 4-star frontal and rollover ratings, its real-world complaint data reveals significant engine-related safety concerns. With 132 total complaints, a substantial 52 (nearly 40%) are related to the ENGINE, leading to 7 reported fires and 4 injuries. This is further underscored by two critical recalls, both directly addressing fire and crash risks. One recall (NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V746000) specifically targets connecting rod bearing wear, which can cause engine stall or fire. The other recall (NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V520000) addresses an ABS module issue that could lead to an engine compartment fire. The high number of engine complaints, coupled with these recalls and reported fires, indicates a serious potential safety flaw despite good crash test performance. Common complaint patterns show a clear dominance of engine issues, including knocking sounds, excessive oil consumption, stalling, and complete engine failure, often linked to the connecting rod bearing recall. Several complaints describe vehicles losing power or stalling on highways, posing a direct crash risk. Beyond the engine, there are recurring complaints about the electrical system, particularly concerning the climate control switch melting and emitting smoke, which is a fire hazard. While the vehicle performs well in controlled crash tests, the prevalence of engine and electrical system failures, some leading to fires and stalls, suggests that long-term reliability and operational safety are significant concerns for this model year. The recall history is directly relevant to the most frequent complaints. The engine recall (20V746000) directly addresses the 'connecting rod bearings inside the engine may wear prematurely,' which aligns with numerous owner reports of engine knocking, stalling, and replacement. The ABS module recall (20V520000) addresses a potential engine compartment fire risk, which is consistent with the 7 reported fires among the complaints. The fact that many complaints mention ongoing issues even after recall attempts or difficulties getting repairs highlights a persistent problem that impacts the vehicle's overall safety profile.

Our recommendation: Given the high number of severe engine complaints, reported fires, and two critical safety recalls, exercise extreme caution when considering a 2015 Hyundai Veloster; ensure all recalls have been addressed and consider a pre-purchase inspection focusing heavily on engine health and electrical systems.