2018 Hyundai Elantra Gt Problems

Good Record

The 2018 Hyundai Elantra GT has 49 NHTSA complaints and 1 recall, with engine problems dominating the reports. Based on 49 real NHTSA owner complaints, with Engine Problems the most reported area.

20174 years2019

Before you buy

This 2018 Hyundai Elantra Gt has 49 NHTSA complaints β€” top issue: Engine Problems.

A model-year pattern isn't the car in front of you. Check this exact VIN for accidents, open recalls, odometer rollback, and salvage titles.

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49
Complaints
β€”
Crashes
1
Fires
1
Injuries
β€”
Fatalities
1
Recalls

2018 Hyundai Elantra Gt Fuel Economy

βœ“ EPA Official Data

EPA-rated fuel economy across 4 2018 Hyundai Elantra Gt trim configurations. The median figure is shown; range reflects all available trims.

24
MPG City
22–26 range
32
MPG Hwy
29–32 range
27
MPG Combined
25–28 range
327
g COβ‚‚/mile
Regular Gasoline
⚠️Costs $500 more than avg vehicle over 5 years

Source: EPA FuelEconomy.gov. Figures reflect EPA lab testing; real-world results vary by driving style, load, and conditions. 4 trims analysed.

2018 Hyundai Elantra Gt Safety Ratings

NHTSA 5-Star Program

Official crash test results from the NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings program. Stars reflect government-conducted tests; higher is safer.

Overall

4/5

10.7% rollover risk

Frontal Crash

4/5

Side Crash

4/5

Rollover

4/5

10.7% probability

βœ“Stability Control: Standardβ—‹Forward Collision Warning: Optionalβ—‹Lane Departure Warning: Optional

Source: NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings. Ratings are based on government crash tests and may not reflect all trim levels.

Quick Answer

HYUNDAI ELANTRA GT 2018 has 49 NHTSA complaints, with 28 related to engine problems. One recall is recorded, but no crash complaints. Buyers should inspect the engine thoroughly before purchase. Source: NHTSA owner complaints and recall records.

2018 Hyundai Elantra Gt β€” key reliability facts
Make
Hyundai
Model
Elantra Gt
Model year
2018
NHTSA owner complaints
49
Crash-related complaints
0
Safety recall campaigns
1
Top reported component
Engine Problems
Reliability signal
Good Record
EPA MPG combined
27
EPA MPG city / highway
24 / 32
Fuel type
Regular Gasoline
NHTSA overall safety rating
4/5 stars
NHTSA frontal crash rating
4/5 stars
NHTSA side crash rating
4/5 stars
NHTSA rollover rating
4/5 stars
Electronic stability control
Standard

Common problems

Most common 2018 Hyundai Elantra Gt problems

Top owner-reported complaint areas and where they often appear.

#1
28
complaints

Engine Problems

#2
7
complaints

Uncategorized Issues

#3
5
complaints

Transmission / Drivetrain

Fires:1
Injuries:1

Complaint patterns center on Engine Problems, Uncategorized Issues, Transmission / Drivetrain. Use these as a pre-purchase inspection guide, then verify recall and damage history on the specific VIN.

Buyer verdict

Should you buy a used 2018 Hyundai Elantra Gt?

The 2018 Elantra GT is a risky choice due to the high number of engine complaints. Buyers should proceed with caution and prioritize a thorough mechanical inspection.

Engine problems are the most common and costly repairs, and 28 complaints indicate a pattern that could lead to unexpected expenses.

May Suit

This year may suit a buyer willing to accept higher maintenance risk for the model's other attributes.

May Want to Avoid

Buyers seeking a worry-free ownership experience should avoid this year due to the high engine complaint count.

Pre-purchase

What to check before buying a used 2018 Hyundai Elantra Gt

Inspection Focus

  • Inspect engine for unusual noises, leaks, or check engine light.
  • Test transmission for smooth shifting and any hesitation.
  • Check brake system for wear, pulsation, or warning lights.

Before You Close the Deal

  • Pre-purchase inspection focused on engine health.
  • Verify all open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
  • Request service records for engine, transmission, and brakes.
  • Have a mechanic inspect before purchase.

Check the exact car

Shortlist with model-year data. Decide with the exact VIN.

Before buying a used 2018 Hyundai Elantra Gt, run a VIN history report to verify accidents, title brands, odometer records, theft checks, and open recalls for the exact vehicle.

AI verdict

What the complaint data suggests

Editorial interpretation of NHTSA public complaint data. Source: nhtsa.gov. Complaints are owner-submitted and do not confirm a defect. Methodology

Based on NHTSA complaint data, the 2018 Hyundai Elantra GT shows a high rate of engine problems, accounting for 28 of 49 total complaints. The single recall and absence of crash complaints suggest safety issues are not prominent, but mechanical reliability is a concern. Source: NHTSA owner complaints and recall records.

Year context: Compared to other model years, 2018 has a notably high number of engine complaints, but data for other years is not provided.

Recall context: The single recall means at least one known safety issue exists, so verifying recall completion is essential.

Key Findings
  • Engine problems account for 28 of 49 total complaints.
  • Transmission/drivetrain issues total 5 complaints.
  • Forward collision avoidance: AEB has 4 complaints.
Top Concerns
  • Engine Problems (28 complaints)
  • Transmission / Drivetrain (5 complaints)
  • Brake System (4 complaints)
Data note: NHTSA complaints are consumer-submitted and do not confirm a manufacturing defect. Low confidence due to only 49 complaints for one model year.

Full breakdown

All 2018 Hyundai Elantra Gt complaints by category

Every owner-reported complaint category filed with NHTSA for the 2018 Hyundai Elantra Gt. Use this as a pre-purchase inspection checklist.

ComponentComplaintsCrashesFiresAvg MileageVolume
Engine Problems28β€”β€”β€”
Uncategorized Issues7β€”β€”β€”
Transmission / Drivetrain5β€”1β€”
Brake System4β€”β€”β€”
Forward Collision Avoidance: AEB4β€”β€”β€”
Electrical Faults4β€”β€”β€”
Fuel/Propulsion System4β€”β€”β€”
Headlight/Taillight Failures3β€”β€”β€”
Unintended Acceleration2β€”β€”β€”
Lane Departure2β€”β€”β€”
Tire Issues2β€”β€”β€”
Steering Defects1β€”β€”β€”
Back Over Prevention1β€”β€”β€”
Wheel Issues1β€”β€”β€”
Suspension Failures1β€”β€”β€”
Visibility/Wiper1β€”β€”β€”

Source: NHTSA Complaints Database. Complaint counts may exceed total complaints because one report can span multiple categories.

In their words

Real owner complaints

Read what owners actually reported to NHTSA for the 2018 Hyundai Elantra Gt. Type a keyword (e.g. β€œtransmission”, β€œstalling”, β€œbrakes”) to filter.

Showing 49 most recent complaints

Uncategorized IssuesApr 13, 2026

The vehicle is experiencing engine-related excessive oil consumption, which has led to failure of the catalytic converter and emissions system. The root issue appears to be an internal engine defect causing oil to burn during operation. Yes, the vehicle is available for inspectio…

Engine ProblemsJan 16, 2026

Engine consumes large amount of oil requiring oil refill every week, without turning on check engine and/or engine oil light. Raising the chances to cause accidents due to engine failure while driving, and requiring mechanical intervention to rebuild the engine or a total engine …

Engine ProblemsJan 14, 2026

I've contacted Hyundai to try and do a recall repair on my Hyundai Elantra GT 2018 both through a local dealership (Planet Hyundai in Golden, CO) and Hyundai corporate. The engine is stalling and knocking very bad to the point where it's no longer drivable. It's burning oil non-s…

Engine ProblemsJan 13, 2026

I purchased the car on April 7th, 2022 with roughly 115k miles on it and got a blinking CEL shortly after. The engine was listed as a recall and was swapped with 115,610 miles on it directly after the swap. During this, the Hyundai dealership representative called Hyundai's engin…

Engine ProblemsOct 30, 2025

Car was being driven home when car started shaking heavily and check engine light started flashing. Car had been needing 1qt of oil every 600-800 miles, depending on drive (highway would go longer). Pulled off to the side and plugged in code reader - found that cylinder 3 misfire…

Engine ProblemsSep 12, 2025

Engine is burning excessive amounts of oil regularly.

Transmission / DrivetrainJul 29, 2025

In mid-2024, the vehicle experienced a flashing check engine light. I brought it to Murfreesboro Hyundai (TN), where they confirmed the oil was low and started an oil consumption test. A bearing clearance test (BCT) was also performed and passed. After back-and-forth over several…

Engine ProblemsJul 2, 2025

It uses a lot of oil with no visible leak or reason. I put new oil in all the time. All the time! For two years since buying it used. Warning light does not come on till it's out. Car is hot, of course, and stops running in the middle of the road. I see there is a recall on…

Brake SystemMar 11, 2025

when moving during heavy traffic the car, when braking, will suddenly stop or stop heavily at slow speeds. this causes passengers to be jolted as well as following cars. possible rear end collision is the effect as well. passenger safety of accident is a concern. no warning or in…

Electrical FaultsMar 11, 2025

when i was in the rear seat and closed left side door, i found myself stuck. the window would not go down from switch as well so i could not use outside handle for exit. after climbing to other side of backseat with my physical impairment (difficult in tight space backseat) i exi…

Electrical FaultsMar 8, 2025

On 6/27/24 while starting my car in the morning an ABS failure light came on, various other system failure lights came on and have stayed on since that day including Cruise Control and Auto Hold. My car only had 33,250 miles on it! I purchased for an OBDII Reader hoping the fail…

Engine ProblemsDec 23, 2024

The engine burns oil quickly which could lead to the engine blowing. I have to get more oil changes than average to the engine burning oil.

Forward Collision Avoidance: AEBAug 7, 2024

Parked car on street (facing slightly uphill) on Saturday morning, neutral weather conditions. Upon starting car several hours later, yellow warning lights were displayed for Collision Avoidance, ABS, and Stability Control. Yellow Auto Hold light was illuminated and could not be …

Uncategorized IssuesJul 29, 2024

When driving the car home from the store. The car started to vibrate, and no lights came on then then I got to a stop light and the car didn't want to go when i was pushing the gas pedal tried it a few times the check engine light came on and was flashing then the car went, and t…

Engine ProblemsFeb 27, 2024

The engine is consuming excessive oil. The car has about 72k miles on it and I’ve owned it for almost 4 years. I called corporate Hyundai to tell them what’s going on after having multiple recalls fixed at the dealership, I was allowed to drive off the lot with no oil in my vehic…

Engine ProblemsJan 26, 2024

My vehicle has 55,000 miles, and the engine completely stalled while I was driving to the dealership to get it looked at. I had my oil change done 01/04/2024, and barely drove it since I dropped it off 01/11/2024. After weeks of waiting on any update, I was finally contacted that…

Transmission / Drivetrain FireJan 12, 2024

The contact owned a 2018 Hyundai Elantra GT. The contact stated on one occasion, while driving the transmission locked up at two stop lights while in neutral (N) and stalled. The vehicle was able to restart. Additionally, the contact stated that while powered off, and being towe…

Transmission / DrivetrainNov 27, 2023

Engine, power train, malfunction changing my speed control. No warning lights, first ticking noise from engine then knocking loud noise from engine. Noticed ticking about 4 days ago at first, today on freeway going 60-70 mph just changed to loud knocking, immediately engine warni…

Engine ProblemsJun 19, 2023

I have noticed over the last year or so that the engine was burning oil. This was indicated by Express Oil Change multiple times during oil changes, including today. The oil level today didn't even register on the dipstick, so it seems this is getting worse. I can get oil chan…

Steering DefectsMay 15, 2023

My 2018 ELANTRAGT was stolen due to Hundaes ineptitude and refusal to put in proper safety features. My car has been recovered but Hyundai does not have enough parts to supply this current crisis so my car will be in the shop for a minimum six weeks prior to being sent back to Hy…

Page 1 of 3

Source: NHTSA Complaints Database. Real owner reports for the 2018 Hyundai Elantra Gt.

Safety recalls

2018 Hyundai Elantra Gt recalls

1 campaign

NHTSA recall campaigns for the 2018 Hyundai Elantra Gt. The single recall means at least one known safety issue exists, so verifying recall completion is essential. Recalls are free to fix at authorized dealers, but completion status must be verified on the exact VIN.

Safety recall

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

#18V891000ELECTRICAL SYSTEM14/12/2018

Across model years

Compare Hyundai Elantra Gt model years

Compared to other model years, 2018 has a notably high number of engine complaints, but data for other years is not provided.

Research more

Keep researching before you buy

Compare brands and categories, then check the exact car's history by VIN.

Questions

2018 Hyundai Elantra Gt buying FAQ

Buyer-focused answers based on real NHTSA complaint and recall data for this model year.

Is the 2018 Hyundai Elantra Gt reliable?β–Ύ

Good Record. NHTSA currently shows 49 owner complaints, 0 crash-related complaints, and 1 recall campaign for this model year. The 2018 Elantra GT is a risky choice due to the high number of engine complaints. Buyers should proceed with caution and prioritize a thorough mechanical inspection. Treat this as a model-year signal, then verify the exact vehicle's condition and history before purchase.

What are the most common problems with the 2018 Hyundai Elantra Gt?β–Ύ

#1: Engine Problems (28 complaints). #2: Uncategorized Issues (7 complaints). #3: Transmission / Drivetrain (5 complaints)

At what mileage do problems start on the 2018 Hyundai Elantra Gt?β–Ύ

Mileage data is not available or insufficient for this model year.

How safe is the 2018 Hyundai Elantra Gt?β–Ύ

Complaint data is not the same as crash-test scoring, but it does highlight possible risk patterns. For the 2018 Hyundai Elantra Gt, NHTSA complaints include 0 crash-related reports and 1 fire reports out of 49 total complaints. 1 injury reports are also on file. For controlled crash-test ratings, check nhtsa.gov/ratings.

Does the 2018 Hyundai Elantra Gt have any recalls?β–Ύ

Yes. 1 NHTSA recall campaign affect the 2018 Hyundai Elantra Gt. A major recall area is ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. The single recall means at least one known safety issue exists, so verifying recall completion is essential. Always verify open recalls by VIN because completion status varies by vehicle.

Should I buy a 2018 Hyundai Elantra Gt?β–Ύ

The 2018 Elantra GT is a risky choice due to the high number of engine complaints. Buyers should proceed with caution and prioritize a thorough mechanical inspection. Engine problems are the most common and costly repairs, and 28 complaints indicate a pattern that could lead to unexpected expenses. Pay extra attention to Engine Problems during inspection. Before committing, run a VIN history report to verify accidents, title brands, odometer records, and recall completion for the exact car.

Source: NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) complaint and recall databases, aggregated by VinSpector AI.

Wider context: See the full Hyundai Elantra Gt reliability report with year-by-year comparison.

Owner Reliability Rating

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Ratings are based on owner experience and are separate from NHTSA data shown above.

Before you buy

Check the exact vehicle history before you buy

Model-year complaints and recalls reveal patterns. A VIN report confirms whether the exact car has accident history, title brands, mileage issues, or open recalls.

2018 Hyundai Elantra Gt: Is It Reliable? Problems, Recalls & Buyer Verdict | VinSpectorAI