2017 Hyundai Veloster Safety Report

2017 Hyundai Veloster: Strong Crash Ratings Mask Significant Engine Failure Concerns with No Recalls

47Complaints
0Recalls
★★★★★Safety Rating
40/100Reliability Score
4Crash Reports
1Injuries
Most reported components: Engine (17)Power Train (5)Structure (3)Unknown Or Other (2)Structure,Unknown Or Other (2)Unknown Or Other,Engine (2)Electrical System,Air Bags,Engine (1)Wheels (1)Power Train,Vehicle Speed Control,Engine (1)Structure,Engine (1)

AI Safety Analysis for the 2017 Hyundai Veloster

The 2017 Hyundai Veloster presents a mixed safety picture. While it boasts strong crash test performance with an overall 5-star rating from NHTSA, including 5 stars for side impact and 4 stars for frontal and rollover, its complaint data reveals significant powertrain reliability concerns. With 47 total complaints, a substantial 17 (36%) are related to the ENGINE, and another 5 (11%) to the POWER TRAIN. These complaints frequently describe catastrophic engine failures, including rod bearing issues, engine seizing, and loss of motive power, often occurring without prior warning lights. Several complaints explicitly mention the P1326 diagnostic trouble code, which is associated with Hyundai's known engine issues. Despite the high number of severe engine-related complaints, there have been no recalls issued specifically for the 2017 Veloster. This is a notable discrepancy, especially given the recurring nature of the engine failures described, some of which reference Hyundai's broader engine recall issues affecting other models. The vehicle has been involved in 4 reported crashes and 1 injury, which, while not excessively high for 47 complaints, underscores the potential safety implications of sudden engine failure at speed. Beyond the engine, other reported issues include transmission hesitation and failure, paint peeling, and sunroof explosions. The lack of recall action for the prevalent engine problems is a significant concern for potential buyers. While the vehicle performs well in controlled crash tests, the real-world safety risk posed by sudden, unannounced engine failure is substantial and should be carefully considered.

Reliability Score

The 2017 Hyundai Veloster receives a reliability score of 40 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 Veloster

The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2017 Hyundai Veloster:

IssueSeverityFrequencyTypical Mileage
Engine Failure (Rod Bearing, Seizing)
Catastrophic engine failure, often due to rod bearing issues or seizing, leading to complete loss of power. Frequently associated with DTC P1326 and metal debris in oil. Many reports indicate no prior warning lights.
High Common 27000-122000 miles
Transmission Hesitation/Failure
Vehicle hesitates or surges when accelerating, or fails to shift gears, sometimes leading to complete loss of forward/backward movement.
Medium Occasional unknown miles
Sunroof Explosion
Sunroof glass spontaneously shatters or explodes while driving, showering occupants with glass.
High Rare unknown miles
Paint Peeling/Corrosion
White paint peeling on hood or corrosion observed under paint on rims.
Low Occasional 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 Veloster:

Engine 36% of complaints

Predominantly catastrophic engine failures, including rod bearing issues, seizing, and sudden loss of motive power, often without warning.

Power Train 11% of complaints

Issues with transmission hesitation, surging, and failure to engage gears.

Structure 6% of complaints

Includes issues like sunroof explosion and door lock failure.

Frequently Asked Questions About the 2017 Hyundai Veloster

Is the 2017 Hyundai Veloster safe?

Based on NHTSA data, the 2017 Hyundai Veloster received excellent crash test ratings (5-star overall). However, its safety is significantly undermined by a high number of severe engine failure complaints (17 out of 47 total complaints), which can lead to sudden loss of power and potential crash risks. There are no recalls addressing these engine issues.

What are common problems with the 2017 Hyundai Veloster?

The most reported issues for the 2017 Hyundai Veloster are related to the ENGINE (36% of complaints), frequently involving catastrophic failures like rod bearing issues and seizing. POWER TRAIN issues (11%) such as hesitation and transmission failure are also reported. Other problems include paint peeling and rare but severe sunroof explosions.

Has the 2017 Hyundai Veloster been recalled?

No, the 2017 Hyundai Veloster has 0 recalls listed by NHTSA. This is despite numerous complaints detailing severe engine failures that mirror issues addressed by recalls in other Hyundai models.

How does the 2017 Hyundai Veloster perform in crash tests?

The 2017 Hyundai Veloster received a 5-star overall safety rating from NHTSA. It scored 4 stars for frontal crash, 5 stars for side crash, and 4 stars for rollover resistance, indicating strong performance in controlled crash scenarios.

Are the engine problems in the 2017 Hyundai Veloster serious?

Yes, the engine problems reported for the 2017 Hyundai Veloster are very serious. Complaints describe sudden engine seizing, rod bearing failure, and complete loss of motive power while driving, often without warning. These issues pose a significant safety hazard, as evidenced by 4 reported crashes and 1 injury among the complaints.

Buyer Advice

Our recommendation: Given the high incidence of severe, unaddressed engine failures despite strong crash ratings, exercise extreme caution. Thoroughly inspect service records for engine-related work and consider an extended powertrain warranty if purchasing this vehicle.

NHTSA Data Summary for 2017 Hyundai Veloster

This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2017 Hyundai Veloster. The data includes 47 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 0 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 4 reported crashes, 1 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.

The NHTSA has assigned the 2017 Hyundai Veloster an overall safety rating of 5 out of 5 stars, with a frontal crash rating of 4 stars, a side crash rating of 5 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.