NHTSA // CRASH-TESTED
2020 Hyundai Elantra
Federal crash-test performance, recalls, and complaints, scored into one NHTSA Safety Index.
The Hyundai Elantra is a compact sedan competing in one of the most hotly contested segments in the American market. Aimed squarely at value-conscious commuters and first-time new-car buyers, it has evolved across the 2019 to 2025 model years into a genuinely stylish, feature-rich alternative to stalwarts like the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla. Here at MotorCaliber, we cut through the styling and the sticker price to focus on what matters most: how safe is it?
The 2020 Hyundai Elantra earns an NHTSA Safety Index of 77 out of 100, an average result driven by its federal crash-test stars and its recall record. It has 3 recalls on record, reflected in the score.
- new and teen drivers who want standard crash-avoidance tech
Reviewers generally regard the Elantra as a competitive and well-rounded compact sedan that punches above its price point in terms of features and interior quality. Most professional assessments highlight its sharp styling and comfortable ride as genuine strengths, while acknowledging that the segment is intensely competitive. Safety technology content on higher trims tends to draw favorable mention.
NCAP // CRASH TESTCrash-test breakdown
Source: NHTSA NCAP, VehicleId 14108
Index breakdown
NCAP // CRASH IMAGESCrash-test images
Crash-test images are US federal government works (NHTSA / NCAP), public domain.
NHTSA // RECALLSRecall record
ENGINE21V301000
Risk: A damaged engine may stall, increasing the risk of a crash. In addition, oil may leak onto hot exhaust components, increasing the risk of a fire.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect and, if necessary, replace the engine, free of charge. In addition, Hyundai will deploy Piston Ring Noise Sensing System (PNSS) software. Owner notification letters were mailed August 24, 2021. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460.
Reported 2021-04-28
WHEELS:LUGS/NUTS/BOLTS/STUDS19V720000
Risk: A wheel detaching from the vehicle increases the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and, if necessary, tighten the lug nuts, free of charge. The recall began November 15, 2019. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-800-251-0871. Hyundai's number for this recall is 184.
Reported 2019-10-09
SUSPENSION:FRONT:CONTROL ARM:LOWER BALL JOINT19V721000
Risk: A detached ball joint can cause a loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and, as necessary, tighten the ball joint fasteners, free of charge. The recall began November 20, 2019. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 185.
Reported 2019-10-09
NHTSA // COMPLAINTSOwner complaints
239 owner complaints on file. These are unverified allegations reported to NHTSA.