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Hyundai Elantra: which year should you buy?

Across the 2011 to 2024 model years, the public record is strongest on the 2024 (86/100). Every year below is scored on its own NHTSA complaint and recall history. Pick the year, not just the nameplate.

Best years to target

2024 86 · 2019 80 · 2016 80 · 2020 71

Every model year, scored

Same math for every year (how we score). A neutral Unproven or Too New stamp means too few owner reports are on file to affirm the year, not that it’s clean.

202486/100
Buybest year

52 complaints · 1 recalls

202364/100
Caution

90 complaints · 2 recalls · ⚠ park-it recall

202264/100
Caution

95 complaints · 5 recalls

202164/100
Caution

128 complaints · 6 recalls

202071/100
Buy

240 complaints · 3 recalls

201980/100
Buy

242 complaints · 1 recalls

201764/100
Caution

759 complaints · 4 recalls

201680/100
Buy

285 complaints · 2 recalls

201564/100
Caution

258 complaints · 3 recalls · ⚠ park-it recall

201464/100
Caution

380 complaints · 2 recalls · ⚠ park-it recall

201361/100
Caution

1,323 complaints · 4 recalls · ⚠ park-it recall

201264/100
Caution

671 complaints · 4 recalls · ⚠ park-it recall

201164/100
Caution

459 complaints · 5 recalls · ⚠ park-it recall

Zeroing in on the 2024?

The full year-by-year verdict is free. When you’re ready to inspect and negotiate one specific car, the Full Report turns the 2024 Hyundai Elantra’s complaint breakdown and recall list into an inspection-ready, shareable PDF.

Recalls, complaint breakdown & inspection checklist, all in a shareable PDF

Cross-shopping a different nameplate? Compare the 2024 Hyundai Elantra head-to-head →

The fine print: each year’s verdict is computed from public NHTSA complaint and recall records for the Hyundai Elantra as a model, not for any individual car. A well-kept example of a weaker year can outlast a neglected strong one. Informational only, so always get a professional pre-purchase inspection.