When it comes to choosing a reliable vehicle, many people often wonder if buying a Hyundai is the right choice. While Hyundais have become increasingly popular for their affordable (yet high-quality) cars in recent years, they are still relatively new on the auto market and can be somewhat unfamiliar.
Are Hyundai good cars? This blog post will explore all of the features that make up this brand’s vehicles, breaking down how they differ from other car manufacturers and why they could potentially be an excellent choice for your next purchase.
Are Hyundai Good Cars?
While early generation Hyundais have a reputation for not being the most reliable, Hyundai has made significant strides over the last decade to shed this image. In the past, Hyundai was barely recognized as a significant player in the car industry, often overlooked in favor of more established brands. However, the narrative has changed drastically in favor of Hyundai, as the company has been consistently releasing high-quality vehicles that are budget-friendly.
Hyundai’s resurgence is far from a fluke. The brand has made significant investments in improving the quality and performance of its vehicles, which has paid off in the form of top safety ratings. In terms of reliability, Hyundai is up there with the best of them. According to RepairPal, Hyundai boasts a reliability rating of 4.0 out of 5.0, ranking them 4th out of a total of 32 car brands. This is a testament to the company’s commitment to quality and customer satisfaction.
One of the many benefits of owning a Hyundai is the relatively inexpensive cost of maintenance. With an annual repair cost of only $468 for both scheduled and unscheduled repairs, Hyundai ownership is cost-effective compared to the industry average of $652 for all vehicle models. In addition, Hyundai owners typically visit the repair shop about 0.3 times per year for unscheduled repairs, below the average of 0.4 times for all models.
It’s noteworthy that only 10% of all repairs on Hyundai vehicles are considered severe, a percentage that’s lower than the industry average of 12% for critical issues across all models. Three of the most problematic Hyundai models, according to CarComplaints.com, are the Elantra, Santa Fe, and Sonata. These models have over a thousand NHTSA complaints each, although this could be a reflection of their popularity.
Hyundai’s warranty, referred to as “America’s Best Warranty,” is another strong selling point for the brand. As part of their Hyundai Assurance program, the South Korean manufacturer provides comprehensive coverage for most vehicle parts. The Bumper-to-Bumper Warranty lasts for five years or 60,000 miles, whichever comes first. This robust warranty coverage offers peace of mind to Hyundai owners, reinforcing the brand’s commitment to quality and customer satisfaction.
In conclusion, while Hyundai may have had a rocky start, the company has evolved into a reliable brand, offering high-quality and budget-friendly vehicles. Consistently high safety ratings and a generous warranty make Hyundai a sound choice for your next car purchase.
See more: Are Mazdas Good Cars?
Common Hyundai Problems
Despite the positive aspects of Hyundai vehicles, like any other car brand, they are not without their issues. Some of the most commonly reported problems by Hyundai owners include:
- Engine Failure: Some Hyundai models, particularly the Sonata and the Santa Fe, had issues with engine failure due to metal debris that wasn’t completely removed during the manufacturing process. This resulted in excessive friction and heat within the engine, which could cause it to fail. In response to this, Hyundai extended its powertrain warranty to cover any related engine damage.
- Transmission Problems: Hyundai has faced complaints about transmission problems, particularly in the Tucson model. Owners have reported issues like the vehicle not moving when accelerating, rough or delayed gear shifting, and the transmission abruptly entering into the neutral state.
- Steering Issues: Steering problems are another common issue reported by Hyundai owners. Issues include the steering wheel getting stiff, noises during turning, or the car drifting to one side.
- Hyundai Paint Problems: Some owners have reported issues with the paint chipping or peeling off prematurely. This is especially prevalent in some models like the Elantra, where owners have reported that the paint started to chip or peel off even in cars that were only a few years old.
It’s important to note that while these issues are commonly reported, Hyundai has been proactive in addressing them, often issuing recalls and extending warranties as necessary to uphold their commitment to customer satisfaction.
What Notes When Buying Hyundai
When you’re considering buying a Hyundai, there are a few key factors to keep in mind. These considerations can help ensure that you’re making the best possible decision when purchasing your next vehicle.
Firstly, you should consider the model. As we’ve mentioned earlier, certain Hyundai models have more reported issues than others. The Elantra, Santa Fe, and Sonata are several models with a higher number of reported problems. Hence, doing thorough research about the specific model you’re interested in can provide you with a better understanding of what potential issues you might face.
Secondly, take the time to investigate the specific year of the model you’re considering. While Hyundai has significantly improved its reliability and quality over the years, some earlier models might still carry some of the brand’s previous problems. As a rule of thumb, newer Hyundai models tend to have fewer issues than older ones.
Remember to always check for recalls. As discussed earlier, Hyundai has issued numerous recalls over the years for various issues. It’s crucial to check whether the model you’re considering has any outstanding recalls that need to be addressed.
Also, pay attention to the vehicle’s maintenance history. A well-maintained Hyundai can offer many years of reliable service. Asking for the vehicle’s maintenance records can give you a clear picture of how well the car has been cared for over the years.
Consider the warranty. Hyundai has one of the best warranties in the industry. However, it’s important to understand what is covered under the warranty and what is not. Always ask about warranty transferability if you’re buying a used Hyundai.
Finally, take the vehicle for a test drive. During the test drive, pay close attention to how the vehicle handles and how it performs under different driving conditions. Listen for any unusual sounds and observe any strange behavior. This could be indicative of underlying problems.
In conclusion, Hyundai has made great strides in improving the quality and reliability of their vehicles. While there are still issues that need to be addressed, Hyundai has shown a commitment to rectifying these problems and providing customers with top-quality vehicles.
When buying a Hyundai, it’s important to do your research and take the time to thoroughly inspect the vehicle before making a purchase. With the necessary due diligence, you can enjoy the many benefits of owning a Hyundai without the headaches.
Final Thought
Hyundai’s journey from a budget brand to a reputable automobile giant is truly noteworthy. Their commitment to customer satisfaction, seen in their responsive redressal of common issues and generous warranties, has made them a popular choice among consumers worldwide.
Despite occasional issues, the overall performance, affordability, and modern features of Hyundai cars have managed to impress a broad spectrum of car enthusiasts. However, to make the most of your investment, it’s crucial to make an informed decision, keeping in mind the model, year, and maintenance history.
The promise of a Hyundai car lies not just in its attractive pricing but also its reliability and longevity. With improvements in their manufacturing processes and quality control, Hyundai continues to challenge the status quo, emerging as a viable choice for those looking for a blend of style, performance, and value.
Buying a Hyundai is not just about owning a vehicle, it’s about becoming part of a global family that values quality and customer satisfaction. With careful consideration and proper diligence, a Hyundai car can serve as a reliable partner for your many journeys ahead.