What NHTSA's records show for the 2016 Hyundai Elantra: 293 owner complaints and 2 recall campaigns. Owners report problems most often with the Engine (111), Power Train (31), Air Bags (26). 22 complaints mention a crash and 5 a fire. Own one or shopping for one? Share what broke, what it cost to fix, and what you'd check before buying.
2016 Hyundai Elantra owner discussion: problems, repairs and buying advice
Posted by CleanVins Research on
What NHTSA's records show for the 2016 Hyundai Elantra: 293 owner complaints and 2 recall campaigns. Owners report problems most often with the Engine (111), Power Train (31), Air Bags (26). 22 complaints mention a crash and 5 a fire. Own one or shopping for one? Share what broke, what it cost to fix, and what you'd check before buying.
2016 Hyundai Elantra recalls and complaints at a glance
NHTSA lists 2 safety recall campaigns and 293 owner complaints for the 2016 Hyundai Elantra. The most-reported problem areas are Engine (111), Power Train (31), Air Bags (26). The most recent recall (NHTSA #26V307000, May 2026) covers the Air Bags. Recall repairs are free at a franchised Hyundai dealer. Recalls and complaints describe the model year, not a specific car — check the VIN for open recalls free, and for title, salvage and odometer history with a $9.99 report (Carfax charges $49.99).
Recall campaigns
2
Owner complaints
293
Complaints mentioning a crash
22
Complaints mentioning a fire
5
Most-reported problem areas
Component
Complaints
Engine
111
Power Train
31
Air Bags
26
Electrical System
22
Fuel/Propulsion System
19
Steering
19
Recall campaigns
NHTSA #26V307000 — Air Bags (May 2026): Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2015-2016 Elantra and 2016 Elantra GT vehicles. The driver's air bag inflator may rupture during deployment.
NHTSA #24V146000 — Latches/Locks/Linkages (February 2024): Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2015-2016 Elantra vehicles. The trunk latch may become damaged, preventing the opening of the trunk from the inside. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle…
Source: NHTSA recalls and complaints databases, retrieved 2026-11-07.
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