According to Au7o's analysis of 1,310+ owner reports, the 2013 Hyundai Accent has 10 documented known issues, with 5 rated critical. The most serious are ABS/HECU Brake-Fluid Leak Causing Engine-Compartment Fire (Recall 23V-651 / Campaign 251), Missing Engine Immobilizer Allows USB-Cable Theft (Anti-Theft Software Campaign) ($0-$600 repair), Passenger Occupant Classification Seat Sensor Mat Failure (Airbag / PASSENGER AIRBAG OFF Light) ($250-$2,400 repair), 1.6L Gamma GDI (G4FD) Connecting-Rod Bearing Wear Causing Engine Knock and Seizure ($0-$5,500 repair) and Excessive Oil Consumption and Intake-Valve Carbon Buildup on the 1.6L GDI ($150-$4,500 repair). The most commonly reported issue is Crankshaft Position Sensor Failure with 520 owner reports. Across all issues with published estimates, repair costs range from $80 to $5,500. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.
Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Accent vehicles. In the event of a crash, the front driver-side and/or passenger-side seat belt pretensioner(s) may explode upon deployment.
Campaign #22V06900009/02/2022
STEERING:COLUMN
Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Accent vehicles. A bolt in the steering column may not be secured properly, which can cause the steering column to detach from the steering rack and result in a loss of steering control.
Campaign #22V31100006/05/2022
SEAT BELTS:FRONT
Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Elantra and 2020 Accent vehicles. In the event of a crash, the front driver and passenger-side seat belt pretensioners may explode upon deployment.
Campaign #22V21800001/04/2022
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:TRUNK LID:LATCH
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According to Au7o's analysis of 1,310+ owner reports, the 2013 Hyundai Accent has 10 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: ABS/HECU Brake-Fluid Leak Causing Engine-Compartment Fire (Recall 23V-651 / Campaign 251), Missing Engine Immobilizer Allows USB-Cable Theft (Anti-Theft Software Campaign), Passenger Occupant Classification Seat Sensor Mat Failure (Airbag / PASSENGER AIRBAG OFF Light). Of these, 5 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.
Is the Hyundai Accent reliable?
The 2013 Hyundai Accent has 10 known issues documented across 1,310+ owner reports. 5 issues are rated critical: ABS/HECU Brake-Fluid Leak Causing Engine-Compartment Fire (Recall 23V-651 / Campaign 251) and Missing Engine Immobilizer Allows USB-Cable Theft (Anti-Theft Software Campaign) and Passenger Occupant Classification Seat Sensor Mat Failure (Airbag / PASSENGER AIRBAG OFF Light) and 1.6L Gamma GDI (G4FD) Connecting-Rod Bearing Wear Causing Engine Knock and Seizure and Excessive Oil Consumption and Intake-Valve Carbon Buildup on the 1.6L GDI. Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.
How much does it cost to fix common Hyundai Accent problems?
Repair costs for known Hyundai Accent issues range from $0 to $5,500, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.
What is the 2012-2015 Hyundai Accent ABS/HECU Brake-Fluid Leak Causing Engine-Compartment Fire (Recall 23V-651 / Campaign 251)?
NHTSA recall 23V651 covers certain 2012-2015 Hyundai Accent vehicles. The anti-lock brake system module can leak brake fluid internally and cause an electrical short, which can start an engine-compartment fire while the vehicle is parked or being driven. Severity: high.
What is the 2012-2022 Hyundai Accent Missing Engine Immobilizer Allows USB-Cable Theft (Anti-Theft Software Campaign)?
Content on this page was compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, owner reports, and public automotive data. While we strive for accuracy, this information may contain errors. Always verify repair procedures and specifications with your vehicle's service manual or a qualified mechanic.
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On the 2012-2022 Hyundai Accent, uS-market Accents with a turn-key (non push-button) ignition were built without a standard engine immobilizer. The steering column shroud pops off, the ignition cylinder pulls out, and the exposed shaft turns with a USB connector or screwdriver - the basis of the viral 'Kia Boyz' theft wave that pushed theft rates up over 1,000% in some cities and caused several insurers to refuse coverage on these cars. Roughly 8.3 million Hyundai/Kia vehicles built 2011-2022 are affected. NHTSA declined to force a safety recall, so Hyundai instead issued a free anti-theft software service campaign that adds an ignition-kill 'alarm' logic so the engine only starts with the correct key.
Common Symptoms
Vehicle stolen or theft attempt with steering column shroud pried off
Ignition lock cylinder pulled out or damaged
Broken rear quarter or door glass
Insurance carrier declines or surcharges coverage
How to Fix
Get the free anti-theft software upgrade installed at any Hyundai dealer (check VIN eligibility at hyundaiantitheft.com or owners.hyundaiusa.com) - it takes under an hour and includes window decals. IIHS data shows it cuts theft claim rates by more than half. On cars that cannot take the software, Hyundai has provided free steering-wheel locks through local police departments; an aftermarket immobilizer/kill switch or a wheel lock is the fallback. Also inspect for a damaged ignition lock cylinder and column shroud if the car has already been targeted.
On the 2006-2017 Hyundai Accent, the occupant classification sensor mat built into the front passenger seat cushion fails internally - the printed pressure-sensing traces crack with repeated loading. The car then either lights the SRS/airbag warning lamp with an OCS fault stored, or leaves the PASSENGER AIRBAG OFF indicator lit with an adult sitting in the seat, meaning the passenger airbag will not deploy in a crash. It affects MC (2006-2011) Accents heavily and continues on later cars, and it is well documented across Hyundai/Kia models generally. The financial sting is that Hyundai does not sell the mat separately - the fix is the entire lower seat cushion assembly, and forum owners have posted dealer quotes in the $1,200-$2,400 range for what is a failed sensor pad.
Common Symptoms
SRS/airbag warning light stays on
PASSENGER AIRBAG OFF light stays lit with an adult in the seat
Airbag light comes on only when someone sits in the passenger seat
Intermittent light that changes with seat load
How to Fix
Pull the SRS codes with a scanner that reads airbag modules (a generic OBD-II reader will not show them). First inspect the connectors under the passenger seat for corrosion, a partially seated plug, or a chafed harness from the seat rails - loose connections cause the same fault and cost nothing. If the mat itself is bad, the OEM route is a passenger seat cushion assembly replacement plus an OCS calibration/zeroing procedure at the dealer. Far cheaper alternatives owners use: an aftermarket replacement sensor mat/bypass emulator, or sending the seat cushion out to a sensor rebuild service. After any repair the OCS system must be recalibrated or the light returns.
On the 2012-2017 Hyundai Accent 1.6L Gamma GDI (G4FD), on the RB-generation Accent with the 1.6L Gamma GDI engine (G4FD), the connecting-rod bearings wear and fracture prematurely, releasing metal debris into the oil. As clearances open up the engine develops a metallic knock/rattle that is loudest when warm and under load, then progresses to a rod knock, loss of oil pressure and eventually seizure or a thrown rod. Owners on Hyundai Forums reported the rattle from as early as 2012 cars with normal maintenance history, and Hyundai later rolled out the Knock Sensor Detection System (KSDS) software (Service Campaign 966, expanded by 982) which monitors the knock sensor for abnormal bearing noise, blinks the MIL and drops the car into Engine Protection Mode before the engine destroys itself. Hyundai deployed KSDS software and an engine warranty extension across several of its GDI engine families, but the Accent is NOT on the published covered-vehicle lists for KSDS Campaign 966/982 or the Hyundai/Kia GDI engine-failure settlement. Do not assume this car is covered - verify your VIN with Hyundai before expecting a free repair.
Common Symptoms
Metallic rattle or knock from the engine that gets louder when warm and under load
Ticking/buzzing at cruise that quiets with higher octane fuel
Blinking check engine light and reduced power (Engine Protection Mode)
Low oil pressure warning
Engine seizes or will not restart
How to Fix
First have a Hyundai dealer run your VIN against any open campaign or warranty extension - the Accent is not on the published KSDS 966/982 or GDI settlement lists, so coverage cannot be assumed and must be checked per VIN. If the MIL blinks or a bearing knock is present, request a dealer engine inspection with an oil-pan/bearing check; where a car does qualify, the remedy is a short-block or long-block replacement. Out of warranty the real fix is a short-block or complete engine replacement - rod bearings alone are not a durable repair once the crank journals are scored. Preventively: strict 3,000-5,000 mile oil changes with genuine Hyundai filters (TSB 12-EM-006 warns aftermarket filters can cause knock) and never letting the oil level fall.
On the 2012-2017 Hyundai Accent 1.6L Gamma GDI (G4FD), owners of the 1.6L Gamma GDI Accent report the engine burning a quart of oil in as little as 1,000 miles in the most severe reports, with many reporting 1-2 quarts between normal oil-change intervals. The cause is a combination of worn/coked piston rings and valve stem seals letting oil into the combustion chamber, plus a PCV system that pulls oil vapor into the intake. Because the injectors spray directly into the cylinder, there is no fuel washing the back of the intake valves, so the oil vapor bakes into hard carbon deposits that hurt sealing, idle quality and cold-start performance. Left unchecked, low oil level is also the fastest route to the rod-bearing failure the same engine is known for.
Common Symptoms
Oil level drops well before the next oil change
Blue smoke on start-up or hard acceleration
Low oil pressure / oil level warning light
Rough cold idle and hesitation
Fouled spark plugs, misfire codes
How to Fix
Start with a documented oil-consumption test at the dealer (measured add-oil interval) - a car within the GDI engine settlement/warranty extension window can qualify for repair. Replace the PCV valve and check the PCV hose for oil pooling. Have the intake valves walnut-blasted or chemically cleaned (typically every 60-80k miles on this engine); do not try to 'burn it off' with redlining. Persistent 1-quart-per-1,000-mile consumption means the piston rings are gone and needs a short-block. Until then, check oil at every fuel stop and run the specified 5W-20/5W-30 with genuine filters.
On the 2012-2015 Hyundai Accent, nHTSA recall 23V651 covers certain 2012-2015 Hyundai Accent vehicles. The anti-lock brake system module can leak brake fluid internally and cause an electrical short, which can start an engine-compartment fire while the vehicle is parked or being driven.
Common Symptoms
Open recall 23V651 for the VIN
Potential smoke or fire from the engine compartment while parked or driving
How to Fix
Check the VIN for recall 23V651. Until the recall repair is complete, Hyundai advises owners to park outside and away from structures. Dealers replace the ABS fuse free of charge.
On the 2012-2022 Hyundai Accent 1.6L, the crankshaft position sensor on the 1.6L Gamma engine in the Accent fails prematurely, causing no-start conditions, intermittent stalling, and rough running. The sensor's internal hall-effect element degrades from heat exposure near the engine block. Common failure between 60,000-100,000 miles.
Common Symptoms
Engine stalls randomly while driving
No-start with cranking but no fire
Check engine light with P0335 or P0336
Intermittent rough idle
Engine dies at red lights
How to Fix
Replace the crankshaft position sensor (Hyundai part 39180-2B000). The sensor is located near the transmission bellhousing on the engine block. Parts cost $30-80, labor $80-150. This is a common DIY repair taking about 30-45 minutes. Always use an OEM sensor as aftermarket sensors have high failure rates.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
High ConfidenceVerified520 owner reportsLast reported by owners Jul 2024Reviewed Feb 2026
Community reported
410 owners
On the 2006-2017 Hyundai Accent, the rear torsion beam axle bushings on the Accent wear out prematurely, causing clunking over bumps, wandering at highway speeds, and uneven rear tire wear. The rubber bushings crack and deteriorate, allowing excessive movement of the rear axle. This is accelerated by rough roads and pothole impacts.
Common Symptoms
Clunk from rear over bumps
Vehicle wanders at highway speed
Uneven rear tire wear
Loose feeling in rear end
Thud sound on rough roads
How to Fix
Replace rear torsion beam bushings (Hyundai part 55274-1R000 for each side). This requires pressing out the old bushings and pressing in new ones - typically done by a shop with a hydraulic press. Parts cost $40-80 for both, labor $200-400. Complete rear beam replacement is $600-1,000 if bushings are severely worn.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
Genuine Hyundai 55160-1E000 rear axle-beam pivot bushing, quantity one
OEMHyundai 55160-1E000
early-generation rear beam bushing replacement after loaded inspection confirms failure Fitment/availability: 2006-2011 U.S.
Genuine Hyundai 55160-1R000 rear axle-beam pivot bushing, quantity one
OEMHyundai 55160-1R000
later-generation rear beam bushing replacement after loaded inspection confirms failure Fitment/availability: 2012-2017 U.S. Hyundai Accent 1.6L generation as cataloged; retailer also shows selected 2011 catalog entries, so use the 2012-…
High ConfidenceVerified410 owner reportsLast reported by owners May 2024Reviewed Feb 2026
Community reported
380 owners
On the 2012-2020 Hyundai Accent, the A/C compressor on the Accent fails prematurely, often between 50,000-80,000 miles. The compressor clutch bearing seizes or the internal reed valves break, sending metal debris through the system. When the compressor fails catastrophically, the condenser, expansion valve, and accumulator also need replacement to remove debris.
Common Symptoms
A/C blows warm air
Squealing noise when A/C is on
A/C cycles on and off rapidly
Grinding noise from engine belt area
Oily residue around A/C compressor
How to Fix
If compressor clutch is failing (noise but still cooling), replace the clutch assembly only ($150-250). For complete compressor failure, replace the compressor, condenser, expansion valve, and flush the system ($800-1,400 total). Use a Denso or SANDEN aftermarket compressor rather than cheap eBay units. Always replace the receiver drier with a new compressor.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
2012-2017 compressor replacement after professional testing confirms the compressor branch and the installed compressor/control configuration matches Fitment/availability: 2012-2017 U.S. Verify automatic-temperature-control applicabi
2018-2019 compressor replacement after professional testing confirms internal compressor/control failure Fitment/availability: 2018-2019 U.S. Confirm 1.6L engine, refrigerant, ports, pulley and electronic-control configuration from VIN/la
2020 compressor replacement after professional testing confirms internal compressor/control failure Fitment/availability: Product catalog covers 2020-2022 U.S. Confirm refrigerant, pulley and connector from
High ConfidenceVerified380 owner reportsLast reported by owners Sep 2024Reviewed Feb 2026
On the 2006-2022 Hyundai Accent, the canister purge control solenoid valve (PCSV) on the Accent sticks partially open or fails to hold vacuum, so fuel vapor flows into the intake at the wrong time. The classic owner pattern is a check engine light with P0441 (incorrect purge flow) plus the engine stalling or stumbling immediately after topping off at the pump, and a slightly rich, rough idle. Hyundai Forums threads on this go back years and turn up a second cause besides the valve itself: outdated ECM software, addressed by a Hyundai service campaign software update, which is sometimes the entire fix. The other frequently missed contributors are a saturated charcoal canister (from repeatedly overfilling the tank) and cracked purge lines.
Common Symptoms
Check engine light with EVAP purge codes
Engine stalls or stumbles right after refueling
Rough or hunting idle
Failed emissions/smog test
Slight fuel smell
How to Fix
Scan and confirm the code, then smoke-test the EVAP system for cracked hoses before buying parts. If the valve is at fault, replace it with the genuine Hyundai purge control solenoid - forum owners specifically warn that aftermarket valves have the wrong coil resistance (roughly 20 ohms vs about 30 ohms OEM), which throws an EVAP circuit code and leaves the refueling stall unfixed. Ask the dealer to check for an outstanding ECM software update campaign for your VIN, which can clear P0441 with no parts at all. Replace a fuel-saturated charcoal canister and stop clicking the pump past the first shutoff.
On the 2006-2022 Hyundai Accent, accent owners report the clear coat separating from the base coat in patches - classic delamination from a paint formulation/application problem, not from stone chips or normal weathering. It starts on horizontal, sun-exposed panels (roof first, then hood and trunk lid) and spreads once the edge of a patch lifts. White and pearl white cars are disproportionately affected across North America. Hyundai has never issued a recall, but a 2023 class action lawsuit was filed covering Accent along with Elantra, Sonata, Santa Fe and Sorento owners, and forum owners report paying for a repaint only to have adjacent panels start peeling shortly afterward.
Common Symptoms
Clear coat lifting and flaking off in patches
Roof, hood or trunk paint peeling down to primer or bare metal
Dull chalky patches that spread outward
Surface rust once the metal is exposed
How to Fix
Document it with dated photos at the first sign of lifting and open a goodwill/paint warranty claim with Hyundai Consumer Affairs before the panel is fully bare - approvals drop sharply once corrosion starts. Any real repair means sanding the affected panel back past the failed clear coat, re-priming and refinishing the whole panel; spot-blending over delaminating clear will lift again. Because failure spreads panel to panel, get a quote for the whole roof/hood rather than the visible patch. Owners report $1,000-$1,500 for two panels at an independent body shop, more for a full respray. Keep the car garaged or covered and wax/ceramic-coat the intact panels to slow UV attack.
Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2017-2018 Sonata, 2016-2018 Sonata Hybrid, 2018-2020 Accent, and 2016-2017 Azera vehicles. The trunk latch may become damaged, preventing the opening of the trunk from the inside. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 401, "Internal Trunk Release."
Campaign #21V61900006/08/2021
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:MASTER CYLINDER
Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2021 Accent vehicles. The brake master cylinder may have been manufactured with sharp edges that can damage the inner oil seal, resulting in reduced braking performance.
US-market Accents with a turn-key (non push-button) ignition were built without a standard engine immobilizer. The steering column shroud pops off, the ignition cylinder pulls out, and the exposed shaft turns with a USB connector or screwdriver - the basis of the viral 'Kia Boyz'… Repairs typically run $0-$600. Severity: high.
What is the 2006-2017 Hyundai Accent Passenger Occupant Classification Seat Sensor Mat Failure (Airbag / PASSENGER AIRBAG OFF Light)?
The occupant classification sensor mat built into the front passenger seat cushion fails internally - the printed pressure-sensing traces crack with repeated loading. The car then either lights the SRS/airbag warning lamp with an OCS fault stored, or leaves the PASSENGER AIRBAG O… Repairs typically run $250-$2,400. Severity: high.
What is the 2012-2017 Hyundai Accent 1.6L Gamma GDI (G4FD) Connecting-Rod Bearing Wear Causing Engine Knock and Seizure?
On the RB-generation Accent with the 1.6L Gamma GDI engine (G4FD), the connecting-rod bearings wear and fracture prematurely, releasing metal debris into the oil. As clearances open up the engine develops a metallic knock/rattle that is loudest when warm and under load, then prog… Repairs typically run $0-$5,500. Severity: high.
What is the 2012-2017 Hyundai Accent Excessive Oil Consumption and Intake-Valve Carbon Buildup on the 1.6L GDI?
Owners of the 1.6L Gamma GDI Accent report the engine burning a quart of oil in as little as 1,000 miles in the most severe reports, with many reporting 1-2 quarts between normal oil-change intervals. The cause is a combination of worn/coked piston rings and valve stem seals lett… Repairs typically run $150-$4,500. Severity: high.
What is the 2012-2022 Hyundai Accent Crankshaft Position Sensor Failure?
The crankshaft position sensor on the 1.6L Gamma engine in the Accent fails prematurely, causing no-start conditions, intermittent stalling, and rough running. The sensor's internal hall-effect element degrades from heat exposure near the engine block. Common failure between 60,0… Repairs typically run $110-$230. Severity: medium.
What is the 2006-2017 Hyundai Accent Rear Suspension Clunk / Torsion Beam Bushing Wear?
The rear torsion beam axle bushings on the Accent wear out prematurely, causing clunking over bumps, wandering at highway speeds, and uneven rear tire wear. The rubber bushings crack and deteriorate, allowing excessive movement of the rear axle. This is accelerated by rough roads… Repairs typically run $240-$1,000. Severity: medium.
What is the 2012-2020 Hyundai Accent A/C Compressor Premature Failure?
The A/C compressor on the Accent fails prematurely, often between 50,000-80,000 miles. The compressor clutch bearing seizes or the internal reed valves break, sending metal debris through the system. When the compressor fails catastrophically, the condenser, expansion valve, and… Repairs typically run $150-$1,400. Severity: medium.
What is the 2006-2022 Hyundai Accent EVAP Canister Purge Control Solenoid Valve Sticking (P0441 / Stalling While Refueling)?
The canister purge control solenoid valve (PCSV) on the Accent sticks partially open or fails to hold vacuum, so fuel vapor flows into the intake at the wrong time. The classic owner pattern is a check engine light with P0441 (incorrect purge flow) plus the engine stalling or stu… Repairs typically run $80-$450. Severity: low.
What is the 2006-2022 Hyundai Accent Clear Coat Delamination and Paint Flaking, Worst on White and Pearl White?
Accent owners report the clear coat separating from the base coat in patches - classic delamination from a paint formulation/application problem, not from stone chips or normal weathering. It starts on horizontal, sun-exposed panels (roof first, then hood and trunk lid) and sprea… Repairs typically run $800-$4,000. Severity: low.
