The Most Common Problem With the 2017 Hyundai Elantra

The most commonly reported problem with the 2017 Hyundai Elantra is engine-related failure—especially issues with knocking, stalling, loss of power, and in some cases complete engine seizure, often linked to oil consumption and internal engine defects. Owners and safety data also highlight related concerns such as illuminated check-engine lights and rough running that can precede more serious damage. This article explains what is happening, why it matters, and what owners can do.

How the 2017 Elantra Earned a Reputation for Engine Troubles

The 2017 Hyundai Elantra has generally been praised for value and fuel economy, but reliability records and complaint databases show a consistent pattern: engine problems top the list of owner grievances. While not every car is affected, enough engines have failed—some at relatively low mileage—that it has drawn attention from regulators, consumer advocates, and Hyundai itself through technical service bulletins and warranty actions.

Engine Problems: The Central Issue

Engine trouble is the standout reliability concern for the 2017 Elantra, particularly with the 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine used in many trims (including SE and Limited). Owners describe a spectrum of symptoms, from subtle noises to catastrophic failure, often well before the end of the expected engine life.

Typical Engine Symptoms Owners Report

The following list outlines the most frequently reported symptoms that point to engine trouble in many 2017 Hyundai Elantra vehicles.

• Knocking or ticking noises: A rhythmic knocking or tapping sound from the engine bay, especially under acceleration or at startup.
• Stalling or hesitation: The engine may stumble, hesitate when merging or accelerating, or stall at stops.
• Sudden loss of power: The car may lose power while driving, sometimes triggering “limp mode,” making highway driving hazardous.
• Excessive oil consumption: Owners report needing to add oil between scheduled changes or finding the dipstick low or dry.
• Check-engine light (CEL) on: Diagnostic codes often relate to misfires, knock sensors, or general engine performance issues.
• Complete engine failure: In severe cases, the engine seizes or throws a rod, requiring a full replacement.

Taken together, these symptoms form a pattern: small, early warning signs frequently precede serious engine damage if not addressed quickly and documented under warranty.

What’s Behind These Engine Issues?

While not every 2017 Elantra is affected, multiple technical and legal sources indicate that internal engine wear and manufacturing defects are key contributors, especially in the 2.0L “Nu” engine family.

The following list explains the main technical factors often cited as root causes of the most common engine problems.

• Internal wear and metal debris: Manufacturing issues in some Hyundai four-cylinder engines have historically led to metal debris in the oil passages, which can score bearings and critical surfaces.
• Rod bearing damage: When bearings wear prematurely, they can cause the characteristic knocking noise; if ignored, they may lead to engine seizure.
• Oil starvation: Restriction in oil passages or insufficient lubrication accelerates internal wear and can trigger catastrophic failure.
• Oil consumption linked to ring or cylinder wear: Worn piston rings or cylinder walls can let oil enter the combustion chamber, lowering oil levels and raising the risk of damage.
• Sensitivity to maintenance lapses: Engines with marginal internal flaws tend to be far less tolerant of delayed oil changes or wrong oil type.

These underlying issues mean that even minor maintenance oversights can have outsized effects, which is why regular oil checks and documentation are especially important for 2017 Elantra owners.

How Common Are These Engine Problems?

Complaint databases, owner forums, and used-car market behavior all suggest that 2017 Elantra engine problems are more than isolated incidents, though they don’t affect every vehicle.

The following list summarizes what current information suggests about frequency and patterns of these failures.

• Disproportionate complaints about engines: For the 2017 Elantra, a significant share of formal complaints to consumer agencies and NHTSA involve the engine, rather than minor cosmetic defects.
• Failures at relatively moderate mileage: Many owners report serious problems between about 60,000 and 120,000 miles—well before typical engine lifespans of 150,000–200,000+ miles.
• Concentration in certain engines and build ranges: Complaints tend to cluster around the 2.0L engines; the 1.4L turbo and 1.6L turbo variants, while not immune to issues, appear less frequently in severe-failure reports.
• Evidence in used-car pricing and disclosures: Some used 2017 Elantras are advertised specifically as having “new engine under warranty,” indicating replacements due to prior failure.

Although no exact failure rate is published, the combined signal from owner reports, warranty actions, and the used market makes engine reliability the standout concern for this model year.

Other Notable 2017 Elantra Problems (But Less Common Than Engine Failure)

Beyond the engine, the 2017 Elantra has a handful of recurring—but generally less severe—issues. These problems can still affect ownership costs and safety, but they typically do not overshadow the prominence of engine complaints.

Transmission and Drivability Concerns

Some owners report automatic transmission and drivability issues, though they’re less widespread than engine failures and often more manageable.

The list below outlines the main transmission-related complaints reported by some 2017 Elantra drivers.

• Harsh or delayed shifting: Noticeable jolts during gear changes or hesitation when accelerating from a stop.
• Shuddering at low speeds: A vibration or judder sensation when the car shifts at low speeds or climbs slight grades.
• Occasional transmission warning lights: Check-engine or transmission-related lights can appear alongside drivability complaints.
• Software-related fixes: Some issues are mitigated with updated transmission control software or reprogramming at the dealer.

While annoying, these transmission issues are often addressable without full component replacement and should be evaluated alongside fluid condition, service history, and any available software updates.

Electrical, Interior, and Other Minor Issues

The 2017 Elantra also sees scattered complaints about electrical and interior quality, but these problems are generally secondary to powertrain reliability concerns.

The following list summarizes the most common non-powertrain issues reported by owners.

• Infotainment glitches: Touchscreen freezing, Bluetooth dropout, or intermittent backup camera issues.
• Battery drain and charging issues: Occasional reports of batteries discharging faster than expected, sometimes tied to accessories or modules not sleeping properly.
• Interior rattles and trim noises: Buzzes or creaks from the dashboard and doors developing over time.
• HVAC performance complaints: Some owners note weak air-conditioning performance in hot climates or slow defogging in winter.

These secondary issues can impact day-to-day satisfaction but typically do not render the vehicle unusable and are often repairable at modest cost relative to major engine work.

What Owners and Shoppers Should Do

For current or prospective 2017 Elantra owners, understanding how to detect and respond to engine issues early is vital. A combination of vigilant monitoring, thorough documentation, and careful pre-purchase inspection can significantly reduce the risk of costly surprises.

If You Already Own a 2017 Hyundai Elantra

The following steps can help existing owners protect themselves, catch problems early, and maximize the chances of warranty or goodwill assistance if the engine fails.

• Check oil level regularly: Monitor the dipstick every 1,000 miles or monthly; top off as needed and record any abnormal consumption.
• Listen for new noises: Pay attention to knocking, ticking, or unusual vibrations, especially on cold starts or under hard acceleration.
• Don’t ignore warning lights: If the check-engine, oil pressure, or any serious warning light appears, have the car scanned and inspected immediately.
• Keep meticulous records: Save invoices for all oil changes, services, and repairs; detailed records can be critical for warranty or goodwill claims.
• Ask the dealer about campaigns and bulletins: Inquire whether your VIN is covered by any extended engine warranties, service campaigns, or software updates.
• Consider a preemptive inspection: Have a trusted mechanic listen for bearing noise, check for metal in the oil, and scan for stored codes even if no light is on.

These actions won’t eliminate the underlying design risks, but they significantly increase your chances of detecting failures early and securing support from Hyundai if the engine needs major work.

If You’re Shopping for a Used 2017 Elantra

For used-car buyers, due diligence is critical. The right checks can distinguish a sound car from one on the brink of a big repair bill.

The following list offers key strategies to reduce risk when considering a 2017 Elantra on the used market.

• Verify engine replacement history: A vehicle with a documented Hyundai-installed replacement engine under warranty may be a safer bet than one with no history.
• Request full service records: Prioritize cars with consistent, timely oil changes and dealership or reputable shop documentation.
• Get a pre-purchase inspection (PPI): Have an independent mechanic inspect the engine for noise, scan for codes, and check for oil leaks or low oil level.
• Test-drive thoroughly: Drive at city and highway speeds, listen for noises, and pay attention to power delivery, shifting, and any hesitation.
• Check VIN for recalls and campaigns: Use Hyundai’s or NHTSA’s online tools to see if the car is covered by any open recalls or extended engine coverage.
• Consider an extended warranty: A reputable powertrain warranty (not a low-quality service contract) can mitigate risk, especially if you plan long-term ownership.

While no used car is risk-free, these steps help you avoid problem examples and focus on vehicles with better histories, stronger documentation, and, ideally, factory-backed repairs.

Summary

The 2017 Hyundai Elantra’s most common and most serious problem is engine-related failure, especially in vehicles equipped with the 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. Owners frequently report knocking, stalling, loss of power, excessive oil consumption, and, in severe cases, complete engine seizure at mileage levels where such issues should not be expected. Secondary concerns include occasional transmission harshness, infotainment glitches, and minor interior or HVAC issues, but these are generally overshadowed by the risk of major engine trouble. For current owners, vigilant maintenance, noise and oil monitoring, and thorough documentation are essential. For shoppers, a careful pre-purchase inspection, proof of regular service, and confirmation of any extended engine coverage are key steps to reducing risk with this otherwise practical compact sedan.

What is the recall on the 2017 Hyundai Elantra?

The 2017 Hyundai Elantra has faced recalls for issues like a faulty Electronic Power Steering (EPS) motor connector, which can cause a loss of steering assist, and a faulty canister purge valve that can lead to a “check engine” light or stalling. While paint-related complaints exist, they are not explicitly listed as recalls on the official NHTSA site, and other recalls may apply to different model years or vehicles. You should check your vehicle’s VIN to see if it’s affected by any recalls.
 
This video explains some of the common problems with the 2017 Hyundai Elantra, including its steering system: 59s1A Auto: Repair Tips & Secrets Only Mechanics KnowYouTube · Aug 16, 2024
Recalls and potential issues

• Electronic Power Steering (EPS): A recall was issued to address a faulty EPS motor connector that can cause a loss of power steering, particularly at low speeds. 
• Canister Purge Valve: A faulty canister purge valve can cause the check engine light to illuminate and may lead to stalling. 
• Paint Issues: Some owners have reported issues with paint fading, peeling, or cracking, though these are not always officially listed as recalls. 
• Engine Problems: Some owners have reported engine problems, including stuttering or shutting off at low speeds, which could be linked to sensor issues. 

How to check for recalls

• Check online: You can look up recall information by your vehicle’s VIN on the Hyundai website or the NHTSA website. 
• Contact Hyundai: You can also contact a Hyundai dealer to have them check your vehicle for any open recalls. 

What year to avoid Hyundai Elantra?

Years to avoid for the Hyundai Elantra include 2011, 2012, 2013, 2015, 2016, 2017, and 2022-2023. These models are associated with frequent engine problems like ticking and failure, along with transmission and electrical issues. Other potential problems include steering and airbag malfunctions, particularly in the 2013 model. 
Specific model years to be cautious about:

• 2011-2012: Affected by engine cooling, airbag, electrical, and steering problems. 
• 2013: Ranked as one of the worst years, with many complaints about engine ticking, cooling, airbags, electrical issues, and steering. 
• 2015-2016: Prone to lower engine bearing and transmission failures. 
• 2017: Experienced engine and transmission issues. 
• 2022: Recalled multiple times, with reported problems including engine, exhaust, and electrical system issues. 
• 2023: Recalled for issues like air and water leaks, and in-car electronics. 

Do 2017 Hyundai Elantras have transmission problems?

If you don’t routinely and always change your fluids at least every 30,000 miles or so, you may find that your 2017 Hyundai Elantra transmission will rapidly slip. Check your car’s owner’s manual for more details on the specific mileage intervals in which your transmission needs the fluid changed.

Do 2017 Hyundai Elantras have engine problems?

This after local Hyundai personnel told us the 2017 engines were known to blow out due to a metal failings problem.