2019 Hyundai Elantra: Is It Reliable?
Problems, Recalls & Buyer Verdict
Shopping for a used 2019 Hyundai Elantra? This page highlights owner-reported complaint patterns and recall history so you can inspect the right systems before buying. Current data includes 235 complaints, with Engine Problems as the top reported area.
2019 Hyundai Elantra Fuel Economy
β EPA Official DataEPA-rated fuel economy across 8 2019 Hyundai Elantra trim configurations. The median figure is shown; range reflects all available trims.
Source: EPA FuelEconomy.gov. Figures reflect EPA lab testing; real-world results vary by driving style, load, and conditions. 8 trims analysed.
2019 Hyundai Elantra Safety Ratings
NHTSA 5-Star ProgramOfficial crash test results from the NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings program. Stars reflect government-conducted tests; higher is safer.
Overall
10.7% rollover risk
Frontal Crash
Side Crash
Rollover
10.7% probability
Source: NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings. Ratings are based on government crash tests and may not reflect all trim levels.
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the 2019 Hyundai Elantra has 235 owner complaints, 12 crash-related complaints, and 1 recall campaign on record. The most frequently reported component is Engine Problems. NHTSA reliability signal: Severe Issues.
- Make
- Hyundai
- Model
- Elantra
- Model year
- 2019
- NHTSA owner complaints
- 235
- Crash-related complaints
- 12
- Safety recall campaigns
- 1
- Top reported component
- Engine Problems
- Reliability signal
- Severe Issues
- EPA MPG combined
- 29
- EPA MPG city / highway
- 26 / 33
- 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
Most Common 2019 Hyundai Elantra Problems
Top owner-reported complaint areas and where they often appear.
Engine Problems
Headlight/Taillight Failures
Electrical Faults
Complaint patterns center on Engine Problems, Headlight/Taillight Failures, Electrical Faults. Use these as a pre-purchase inspection guide, then verify recall and damage history on the specific VIN.
Should You Buy a Used 2019 Hyundai Elantra?
The 2019 Hyundai Elantra shows higher complaint activity for its model-year profile, so buyers should inspect known problem areas carefully before purchase.
Use the model-year trend to shortlist candidates, then confirm the exact vehicle condition with service records, recall status, and a VIN history report.
What to Check Before Buying a Used 2019 Hyundai Elantra
Inspection Focus
- Request service records for engine repairs or replacements.
- Verify all open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
- Inspect headlights and taillights for proper operation.
- Have a mechanic inspect the vehicle before purchase.
Before You Close the Deal
- Request service records for engine repairs or replacements.
- Verify all open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
- Inspect headlights and taillights for proper operation.
- Have a mechanic inspect the vehicle before purchase.
Shortlist with model-year data. Decide with the exact VIN.
Before buying a used 2019 Hyundai Elantra, run a VIN history report to verify accidents, title brands, odometer records, theft checks, and open recalls for the exact vehicle.
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
Complaints for the 2019 Hyundai Elantra are concentrated in engine problems, headlight/taillight failures, and electrical faults. A recurring theme appears to be powertrain and lighting issues, though the data is limited to a single model year and consumer-submitted reports.
- Engine Problems account for the largest share of complaints.
- Headlight/Taillight Failures are the second most reported component.
- Electrical Faults also appear frequently in the data.
- Engine Problems
- Headlight/Taillight Failures
- Electrical Faults
All 2019 Hyundai Elantra Complaints by Category
Every owner-reported complaint category filed with NHTSA for the 2019 Hyundai Elantra. Use this as a pre-purchase inspection checklist.
| Component | Complaints | Crashes | Fires | Avg Mileage | Volume |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine Problems | 123 | 2 | β | β | |
| Headlight/Taillight Failures | 63 | 2 | 1 | β | |
| Electrical Faults | 36 | 3 | 1 | β | |
| Uncategorized Issues | 25 | 3 | 1 | β | |
| Transmission / Drivetrain | 11 | β | β | β | |
| Steering Defects | 9 | 2 | 2 | β | |
| Forward Collision Avoidance: AEB | 6 | 2 | β | β | |
| Brake System | 6 | 2 | β | β | |
| Seat Belt Issues | 6 | β | β | β | |
| Wheel Issues | 4 | β | β | β | |
| Unintended Acceleration | 4 | 1 | β | β | |
| Lane Departure | 4 | 1 | β | β | |
| Fuel/Propulsion System | 3 | β | β | β | |
| Structural Problems | 3 | β | β | β | |
| Visibility/Wiper | 2 | β | β | β | |
| Door Lock Issues | 2 | β | β | β | |
| Airbag Malfunctions | 2 | β | β | β | |
| Tire Issues | 2 | β | β | β | |
| Suspension Failures | 1 | β | β | β | |
| Hydraulic | 1 | β | β | β | |
| Fuel System | 1 | β | β | β | |
| Gasoline | 1 | β | β | β | |
| Back Over Prevention | 1 | β | β | β | |
| Electronic Stability Control (Esc) | 1 | β | β | β |
Source: NHTSA Complaints Database. Complaint counts may exceed total complaints because one report can span multiple categories.
Real Owner Complaints
Read what owners actually reported to NHTSA for the 2019 Hyundai Elantra. Type a keyword (e.g. βtransmissionβ, βstallingβ, βbrakesβ) to filter.
The engine defected at 82000 i had it for a year can u guys please make it right as a valuable customer
During my state inspection it was noted that my high beams were not properly functioning. The garage tested my bulb and said it appeared to be a malfunction of the flap assembly in the headlamps. We checked online for information on how to proceed and noted a recall campaign T5G β¦
my car was going uphill and would only go about 15 up hill and would not accelerate, no lights came one to indicate any issues, then it started driving properly. Then after about 4 min it just died, in the middle of a busy intersection during rush hour. the check oil, engine andβ¦
my car was going uphill and would only go about 15 up hill and would not accelerate, then after aboit 4 min it just died, the check oil, engine and battery lights came on. Then after turning off car it came back on but happened exact same way after 3 more min. Both times the ligβ¦
Both Front headlamp assemblies broken hi beam mechanism. My cars headlights burn out every couple months and the bright lights will not work. I took to a Hyundai dealership on 03/28/2026 who told me it would be $5,333.30 to fix. I have done nothing to cause this electrical probleβ¦
I was getting off the highway in late January 2025- in my fairly used 2019 Hyundai Elantra Value edition, that had less than 70,000 miles on it- when a piston rod suddenly shot from my engine, causing a slight implosion. This set off the oil pan gasket & caused it to blow into huβ¦
Car shut off multiple times while driving including coming to complete stop on the freeway in traffic
The contact owns a 2019 Hyundai Elantra. The contact stated that the vehicle was consuming an excessive amount of oil, and oil needed to be added frequently between scheduled oil changes. No visible external leaks were found. The contact referenced NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V30100β¦
Engine failure. Less than 150,000 miles and engine has gone bad. Burning oil, and loud noise when car starts. Had multiple mechanics look at the car whom said the motor went bad. Iβve been consistent with oil changes, tune ups, etc. maintained the car well so I donβt know why or β¦
The contact owns a 2019 Hyundai Elantra. The contact stated that the high-beam headlights were inoperable. Additionally, the contact stated that while driving at 15-20 MPH, the check engine warning light illuminated, and the vehicle stalled. The contact was able to pull over to tβ¦
My engine burns oil. I have to continue to check the oil in my vehicle. It is a known issue with all Hyundai cars
My 2019 Hyundai Elantra with the 2.0L engine experienced sudden engine failure at 164.809 miles. The check enqine light came on and the vehicle immediately lost power and shut off. 0i was visible in the wheel well and the engine now has a tapping noise suggesting internal damage β¦
βI am reporting the paint failure on my 2019 Hyundai Elantra as a safety-related concern. The widespread peeling has exposed bare metal, creating a risk of corrosion that can weaken body panels and potentially affect structural safety. This also reduces the vehicleβs protective cβ¦
The high beams donβt work only the low beams work. And the low beams are very dim. The high beam light blue indicator comes on, but the high beams do not turn on. Itβs very difficult to see at night.
My car started stalling on speed bumps and turning. Then one day it stopped accelerating and died. There is No COMPRESSION. I am told I now probably need a new engine. I saw that other Elantras from 2019 were recalled for this issue and why wasnβt mine? I could have gotten β¦
2019 Elantra has been experiencing oil loss. The last oil change on 14 Feb 2026 at 57400 miles. Checked the oil today 16 Feb 2026 after 266 miles and it was a quart low. It appears that oil consumption is a know issue with Hyundai year and model.
Engine burning oil
The brights are not working properly, the light indicates they are on but there is no change in the light it projects.
The contact's mother owns a 2019 Hyundai Elantra. The contact stated that while his mother was driving approximately 20 MPH, there was an abnormal banging sound coming from the engine compartment before the vehicle stalled. The vehicle was pushed to the side of the road to safetyβ¦
While driving back into town on the interstate, my oil plug fell out of my car. It was not known at the time the oil plug was what fell out. I remember hearing a clunk underneath my car. About 5-10 minutes after I heard the noise, my oil light flashed, and I could feel my car unaβ¦
Source: NHTSA Complaints Database. Real owner reports for the 2019 Hyundai Elantra.
2019 Hyundai Elantra Recalls
1 campaignNHTSA recall campaigns for the 2019 Hyundai Elantra. 1 recall campaign is on record for this model year. Recalls are free to fix at authorized dealers, but completion status must be verified on the exact VIN.
2019 Hyundai Elantra Buying FAQ
Buyer-focused answers based on real NHTSA complaint and recall data for this model year.
Is the 2019 Hyundai Elantra reliable?βΎ
Severe Issues. NHTSA currently shows 235 owner complaints, 12 crash-related complaints, and 1 recall campaign for this model year. The 2019 Hyundai Elantra shows higher complaint activity for its model-year profile, so buyers should inspect known problem areas carefully before purchase. 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 2019 Hyundai Elantra?βΎ
#1: Engine Problems (123 complaints). #2: Headlight/Taillight Failures (63 complaints). #3: Electrical Faults (36 complaints)
At what mileage do problems start on the 2019 Hyundai Elantra?βΎ
Mileage data is not available or insufficient for this model year.
How safe is the 2019 Hyundai Elantra?βΎ
Complaint data is not the same as crash-test scoring, but it does highlight possible risk patterns. For the 2019 Hyundai Elantra, NHTSA complaints include 12 crash-related reports and 3 fire reports out of 235 total complaints. 4 injury reports are also on file. For controlled crash-test ratings, check nhtsa.gov/ratings.
Does the 2019 Hyundai Elantra have any recalls?βΎ
Yes. 1 NHTSA recall campaign affect the 2019 Hyundai Elantra. A major recall area is ENGINE. 1 recall campaign is on record for this model year. Always verify open recalls by VIN because completion status varies by vehicle.
Should I buy a 2019 Hyundai Elantra?βΎ
The 2019 Hyundai Elantra shows higher complaint activity for its model-year profile, so buyers should inspect known problem areas carefully before purchase. Use the model-year trend to shortlist candidates, then confirm the exact vehicle condition with service records, recall status, and a VIN history report. 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 reliability report with year-by-year comparison.
Owner Reliability Rating
Rate the 2019 Hyundai Elantra based on your ownership experience.
Add your rating:
Ratings are based on owner experience and are separate from NHTSA data shown above.
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.