2021 Hyundai Veloster Safety Report

2021 Hyundai Veloster faces engine recall and ADAS malfunctions despite low overall complaint volume.

11Complaints
1Recalls
65/100Reliability Score
Most reported components: Lane Departure (6)Steering,Engine,Fuel/Propulsion System (1)Unknown Or Other,Lane Departure (1)Engine (1)Engine,Fuel/Propulsion System (1)Steering (1)

AI Safety Analysis for the 2021 Hyundai Veloster

The 2021 Hyundai Veloster presents a mixed safety picture, primarily due to a significant engine recall and a pattern of advanced driver-assistance system (ADAS) malfunctions, despite a low overall complaint volume. With only 11 total complaints to NHTSA, the vehicle has not been associated with any reported crashes, fires, injuries, or deaths, which is a positive indicator for a relatively new model. However, a critical recall (NHTSA ID: 21V-302) affects certain 2019-2021 Veloster vehicles equipped with 2.0L Nu MPI engines, addressing piston oil ring issues that could lead to engine stall or fire, a severe safety risk. Owners should ensure this recall has been addressed. Beyond the recall, the most prominent complaint pattern revolves around the 'LANE DEPARTURE' system, accounting for 6 out of 11 complaints. These issues frequently describe false positives or system failures, particularly after tire changes, raising concerns about the reliability of the blind spot monitoring (BSM) system. While not directly causing crashes in the reported incidents, a malfunctioning BSM system could increase the risk of an accident by providing incorrect information to the driver. Other complaints, though fewer in number, point to serious engine issues, such as the high-pressure fuel pump needing replacement twice before 1,000 miles and the vehicle stalling or having no oil at low mileage, aligning with the recall's concerns. NHTSA has not published specific crash test ratings (Overall, Frontal, Side, Rollover) for the 2021 Hyundai Veloster, making it impossible to assess its performance in controlled crash scenarios. This lack of data means consumers cannot directly compare its structural safety performance against other vehicles based on NHTSA's standardized tests. Therefore, while the low complaint count for crashes is reassuring, the absence of crash test ratings leaves a gap in the overall safety assessment. The primary safety concerns for this model stem from the engine recall and the documented ADAS system inconsistencies.

Reliability Score

The 2021 Hyundai Veloster receives a reliability score of 65 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 2021 Hyundai Veloster

The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2021 Hyundai Veloster:

IssueSeverityFrequencyTypical Mileage
Engine Stalling/Failure
Several complaints describe engine stalling, needing high-pressure fuel pump replacement, or lack of oil at very low mileage, aligning with the engine recall for piston oil ring issues.		 High Occasional 0-10000 miles
Blind Spot Monitoring (Bsm) System Malfunction
The BSM system frequently reports false positives or fails to detect vehicles, especially after changing from OEM summer tires to all-season or winter tires.		 Medium Common 0-10000 miles
Steering Wheel Freezing
One complaint details the steering wheel freezing and attempting to veer the car into a wall, requiring manual force to regain control.		 High Rare 6000-6000 miles

Common Problems Reported by Owners

Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2021 Hyundai Veloster:

Lane Departure 54% of complaints

The Lane Departure system, specifically the Blind Spot Monitoring, frequently malfunctions, giving false positives or failing to detect vehicles, often linked to tire changes.

Engine 27% of complaints

Engine issues including stalling, needing fuel pump replacement, and oil consumption problems have been reported, consistent with the recall.

Steering 18% of complaints

One complaint describes a critical incident where the steering wheel froze, causing a loss of control.

Frequently Asked Questions About the 2021 Hyundai Veloster

Is the 2021 Hyundai Veloster safe?

Based on NHTSA data, the 2021 Hyundai Veloster has a low number of overall complaints (11) with no reported crashes, fires, or injuries. However, it is subject to a significant engine recall (21V-302) that could lead to engine stall or fire. Additionally, there are recurring complaints about the blind spot monitoring system malfunctioning, which could pose a safety risk.

What are common problems with the 2021 Hyundai Veloster?

The most reported issues for the 2021 Hyundai Veloster are related to the LANE DEPARTURE system (54% of complaints), specifically the blind spot monitoring system giving false positives or failing. Engine problems, including stalling and oil consumption, account for 27% of complaints and are linked to a recall. Steering issues have also been reported, though less frequently.

Has the 2021 Hyundai Veloster been recalled?

Yes, the 2021 Hyundai Veloster has been subject to one recall (NHTSA ID: 21V-302) concerning certain vehicles equipped with 2.0L Nu MPI engines. The recall addresses piston oil rings that may not have been properly heat-treated, potentially leading to engine stall or fire.

Are there any crash test ratings for the 2021 Hyundai Veloster?

NHTSA has not published specific crash test ratings (Overall, Frontal, Side, Rollover) for the 2021 Hyundai Veloster. Therefore, its performance in these standardized crash tests cannot be assessed based on NHTSA data.

What should I do if I own a 2021 Hyundai Veloster?

If you own a 2021 Hyundai Veloster, it is crucial to ensure that the engine recall (NHTSA ID: 21V-302) has been addressed by a Hyundai dealership. Additionally, be aware of potential issues with the blind spot monitoring system, especially after tire changes, and monitor for any signs of engine trouble.

Buyer Advice

Our recommendation: Prospective buyers should verify that the engine recall has been completed and be prepared for potential issues with the blind spot monitoring system, especially if planning to change tires from OEM specifications.

NHTSA Data Summary for 2021 Hyundai Veloster

This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2021 Hyundai Veloster. The data includes 11 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 1 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.

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.