CarComplaints.com Notes: So far the 2011 Elantra doesn't have the same volume of transmission problems that 2010 owners are fighting with. It also doesn't have the same pattern of steering and braking complaints that are piling up with the 2013 model year.

We're not saying the 2011 is perfect -- I mean, what were they thinking advertising their MPGs -- but there are worse choices.

7.6

pretty bad
Typical Repair Cost:
$300
Average Mileage:
84,200 miles
Total Complaints:
5 complaints

Most Common Solutions:

  1. not sure (2 reports)
  2. replace power steering coupler (1 reports)
  3. replace steering shaft (1 reports)
  4. replace steering wheel coupler (1 reports)
2011 Hyundai Elantra steering problems

steering problem

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2011 Hyundai Elantra Owner Comments

problem #5

Feb 012012

Elantra Limited 1.8L

  • Automatic transmission
  • 112,000 miles

A D V E R T I S E M E N T S

I bought the 2011 Hyundai Elantra in November 2016 with the goal of keeping it "till death do us part". I have always had that approach with cars. Well, the Crown Hyundai in St. Pete Florida failed to disclose of a "clicking" engine noise. On top of that, they did not fix the mandatory recalls until after I told them! Additionally, there is the whole issue of the steering coupler with ALL Hyundais. They do not disclose, inform you, notify you (dealer or corporate) in any way of the steering coupler issue, but your alignment, tires, other parts will suffer and you will pay THOUSANDS to replace them! Hyundai refuses to address the problem and says "not a safety issue". How can it be "not a safety issue" when freaking tires blow after only 25,000 miles because of their problem?

My 40,000 warranty tires blew on the highway after 25,000 miles only! Plus, the whole tire size issue. The only size tires that fit into the Elantra only last 35,000-40,000 miles tops. So, if you drive average, you will replace tires every 2 years -- more expenses for you! This car is a DISASTER, and the customer service at the corporate level is horrible. CHECK THE LAWSUITS. STAY AWAY FROM THE COMPANY.

- Andy S., Lutz, US

problem #4

Jan 102018

Elantra GLS 1.6L

  • Manual transmission
  • 102,526 miles

I started hearing a sound from the steering wheel. Very annoying clicks more especially when you turn the car. and you can hear click sounds as you drive.

I went to the nearest Hyundai to have it checked and was told is the steering shaft and that I must pay about R35000.00 to have it replaced. I was surprised at this because at home we have cars that are over 10 years of age and they never had this problem

- Evelyn M., Tzaneen, South Africa

problem #3

Jun 052017

Elantra

  • Automatic transmission
  • 120,000 miles

I noticed one day when backing out of my garage a clicking sound in the steering wheel when moved slightly. This happens when I drive straight. Steering wheel moves slightly. Do not notice it when turning the wheel.

- Debra R., New Smyrna Beach, US

problem #2

Mar 012017

Elantra GLS

  • Automatic transmission
  • 47,325 miles

click to see larger images

clicking sound from steering wheel

I could provide you with more pictures, but this is a known problem. There are hundreds of complaints for the steering wheel coupler for the Hyundai Sonata. I only saw one complaint for the Elantra so I thought I would add my complaint to make sure everyone knows that the problem affects the Elantra too. Basically, the coupler is this rubber wheel that goes into a motor under the steering wheel that makes turning nice and smooth. Without it there is a "clunk" sound when driving straight and you move the wheel a little left or right. You can find Youtube videos on this pretty easily. The part varies of course, but I found a replacement for $8 on Amazon.com. However, the labor involved results in a $300 maintenance bill (estimate) not to mention there is a minimum $165 diagnostic fee. I did it myself and it cost me about $80 after I had to go out and buy some new tools as there is not much clearance to get to the bolts. I also had to lay upside down with my head next to the brake in order to reach the bolts. Most people claim they can do this in 2-4 hours. I had a little more trouble since I did not have the right tools and I was using a repair video on a Hyundai Sonata video to try a fix a Hyundai Elantra. Unfortunately some of the wiring is a little different. My broken coupler was fairly disintegrated so it took a lot of work to get it cleaned out since the old part left a sticky, rubbery mess. After about 6.5 hours I have it working again. However, since this is a known defect, and potentially hazardous IT SHOULD BE INCLUDED IN A RECALL! I am in need for a minivan (we decided to have a third) so we will be trading in the Elantra. Do you think I will be buying another Hyundai?

- winteronhoth, Wellington, US

problem #1

Feb 072017

Elantra Limited

  • Automatic transmission
  • 39,000 miles

seems like this problem is extensive and potentially deadly. Why would this not be addressed via recall? It's my first Hyndai and last.

- maschek, Palm Beach Gardens, FL, US

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