Hyundai Elantra, Kona, Veloster engines can fail and burn

NHTSA campaign 21V301000 · Reported 2021-04-28 · Hyundai Motor America

critical How serious is it? About this label

Serious — the engine can quit in traffic and an oil leak can start a fire, and while Hyundai does not tell owners to stop driving or park outside, you should get the car inspected as soon as you can and stop driving it if you hear knocking, see warning lights, or smell burning oil.

What's wrong, in plain English

The 2.0-liter engine in these cars has piston rings that may not have been hardened correctly when they were made. Over time the rings can wear, damage the engine, and let oil escape. Hyundai is also adding software that listens for piston ring noise so trouble can be caught early. A badly damaged engine can shut off while you are driving, and leaking oil can drip onto hot exhaust parts and start a fire. A dealer will check the engine and replace it if needed.

What you should do

1. Enter your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls to confirm your car is covered by campaign 21V301000.
2. Call a Hyundai dealer for an appointment, or Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460 with questions.
3. Have the inspection, engine replacement if needed, and the software update done — all free of charge.

Affected vehicles (8)

2019 Hyundai Elantra
2019 Hyundai Kona
2019 Hyundai Veloster
2020 Hyundai Elantra
2020 Hyundai Kona
2020 Hyundai Veloster
2021 Hyundai Kona
2021 Hyundai Veloster

Who to contact

Hyundai — official Hyundai recall lookup

Customer service: 1-855-371-9460

Any franchised dealer for the brand can do the repair. Phone numbers are taken from manufacturer sites and recent NHTSA notices; if one has changed, the number in your own recall letter is the one to use.

Official notice

Component: ENGINE
Summary: Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Elantra, 2019-2021 Kona and Veloster vehicles equipped with 2.0L Nu MPI engines. The piston oil rings may not have been properly heat-treated, which could result in engine damage.
Safety 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.

Verify your specific vehicle by VIN at nhtsa.gov. Recall repairs are free of charge by law.