2013 Hyundai Elantra steering problems

Updated from NHTSA data · How we count

109 owners have reported steering problems with the 2013 Hyundai Elantra, 20% of all complaints about this model year. The typical problem appeared around 97,501 mi.

Steering complaints
109
Crashes
4
Fires
0
Injuries
0
Related recalls
0
Median mileage
97,501 mi

Specific components reported

Steering covers: Power steering, steering column and wheel, loss of steering assist.

ComponentComplaints
Steering108
Steering: steering wheel/handle bar1

Steering complaints across Hyundai Elantra years

3200528200842692010343520121095201411920166012201871920205220223720241
Steering complaints by model year. The 2013 is highlighted.

Mileage when the problem appeared

Under 10k210k–30k530k–60k860k–100k11100k–150k3150k+
Complaints that list mileage, grouped by odometer reading.

Related recalls

No recalls on file.

What owners say

  1. Filed May 27, 2026OKElectrical SystemSteeringSuspension
    My fiance and I, bought the vehicle in May 2022? from Carvana. His name is [XXX] . Mine is [XXX] (maiden - [XXX] ) Price. [XXX] passed away August 6, 2025. I wanted to mention this part before I explain the problem. His son is supposed to sign the car over to me as soon as court proceedings are finished. I love the car. But the car came from Carvana with 17K miles. It currently has 42,000K miles on it. I only drive it around town. I live in Tulsa, Oklahoma. The city is…
    NHTSA complaint #11740407 · source
  2. Filed Nov 12, 202550,000 miPASteering
    The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Elantra. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the steering wheel became inoperable. The contact stated that a cushion located within the steering wheel had deteriorated, causing the steering wheel to become difficult to turn. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed that the steering coupler cushion within the steering wheel had failed and needed…
    NHTSA complaint #11698950 · source
  3. Filed Nov 3, 2025MDSteering
    The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Elantra. The contact stated that the steering wheel made clicking sound while turning to the left or the right. While driving at speeds of 55 MPH or higher, the steering wheel vibrated abnormally. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was not taken to be diagnosed or repaired. The contact was referred to the NHTSA Hotline by a mechanic to report the failure. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure…
    NHTSA complaint #11697254 · source
  4. Filed Oct 27, 202551,000 miPASteering
    The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Elantra. The contact stated that there was a lot of play in the steering wheel, and the steering wheel moved back and forth with no resistance while the vehicle was being driven or while idling. There was a loud clunking noise coming from the steering column while turning the steering wheel to the left or the right. The vehicle was taken to a certified mechanic, who diagnosed that the steering column flexible coupler had failed and caused the…
    NHTSA complaint #11695819 · source
  5. Filed Sep 25, 2025PASteering
    My steering wheel has been shaking and having a clunking sound when I accelerate over 60 miles, go over any bumps, and turn. I had my mechanic diagnose it and I was told the steering coupler was bad. I did some research to see if it was a recall and it wasn't. Then I saw on Hyundai.com then I could check my VIN and verify if my vehicle qualified for the extended warranty for this issue. My vehicle qualified however after contacting customer service directly to verify, they…
    NHTSA complaint #11689688 · source
  6. Filed Sep 16, 2025NJSteering
    In the last month I started to hear a clicking sound when turning my steering wheel in either direction. I am told that this is a frequent problem with Hyundai Elantra and is caused by a flexible coupling breaking. I brought my Elantra to the dealer to take cre of some other recalls but was told that the coupling problem is not a recall issue. I do have a Technical Service Bulletin from Hyundai on this issue and feel that since it happens frequently on the Elantra, it should…
    NHTSA complaint #11687638 · source
  7. Filed Jun 30, 202597,501 miMASteering
    The contact owns a 2013 Hyundai Elantra. The contact stated that while starting the vehicle, the steering wheel was very loose. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the contact was forced to grip the steering wheel with force with the front of the vehicle abnormally shaking. The contact depressed the brake pedal and the shaking of the front of the vehicle increased. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent…
    NHTSA complaint #11670358 · source
  8. Filed Jan 19, 2025OHSteeringSuspension
    2013 Elantra coupe se.The car wanders on the highway like a boat constantly left and right all over the lane and if/when you hit a dip or bump it REALLY throws the car around! There's Obviously issues with the suspension on a MULTITUDE of these model/year vehicles if not ALL of theml. It is VERY dangerous and needs to be addressed and recalled. I do not have an alignment issue as the tires brakes rotors and calipers are all new no dragging /pulling etc and the tires are…
    NHTSA complaint #11636901 · source
  9. Filed Oct 23, 2024NYSteering
    My steering wheel is making.a clunking noise and I called Hyundai and informed them and they told me the extended warranty has expired since last year. Lots of Hyundai 2013 consumers complained about this issue and it’s an expensive fix. Please advice [XXX] [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
    NHTSA complaint #11621603 · source
  10. Filed Sep 18, 2024OKElectrical SystemSteering
    On Saturday September 14, 2024 After working a full shift i started my 2013 Hyundai ELANTRA and the ecs light came on. which locks your power of steering. After several restarts to disengage the light. I called the tow truck pay the $80 for it to be brought to the dealership and was told that they can work on it on Tuesday. On Monday I received a phone call on stating I will be paying $3000 out-of-pocket.Even tho I have extended warranty nothing would be covered.
    NHTSA complaint #11615164 · source
  11. Filed Aug 5, 2024GASteeringSuspension
    Steering has become loose and unsafe due to coupler malfunction. Unable to control wheels while driving and clicking noise while turning.
    NHTSA complaint #11606522 · source
  12. Filed Jul 17, 2024NYSteering
    The steering wheel clicks and feels loose when it moves. The repair is to replace the Steering Coupler a piece of plastic for $5 but it will cost $300 or more for my mechanic since it is a 2-3 hour job. This should be replaced by the Dealer for free since the part is made to wear out and be defective
    NHTSA complaint #11602937 · source

Other 2013 Hyundai Elantra problem areas

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Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) Office of Defects Investigation public data. Complaints are submitted by owners and are not verified by NHTSA or by us; a complaint does not prove a defect exists. View this vehicle on NHTSA.gov Methodology