2008 Hyundai Elantra Problems: 4 Known Issues
2008 model year · NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports · Updated October 2026
According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 2008 Hyundai Elantra has 4 documented known issues, with 2 rated critical. The most serious are ABS Module Short Circuit Causing Engine Compartment Fire (Recall 20V061) and Airbag Sensor and Control Module Malfunction. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.
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All 4 Known Issues
NHTSA Recalls8 recalls
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:TRUNK LID:LATCH
Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2015-2016 Elantra 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."
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2015-2016 Elantra and 2016 Elantra GT vehicles. The driver's air bag inflator may rupture during deployment.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:PEDALS AND LINKAGES
Hyundai Motor Company (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2013-2014 Elantra sedan, coupe and GT vehicles. The brake pedal stopper pad can deteriorate allowing the brake light switch plunger to remain extended when the brake pedal is released. This will allow the brake lights to remain illuminated continuously. It can also allow the shift lever to be moved without depressing the brake pedal, or activate the engine management brake pedal override feature.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING:BRAKE LIGHTS:SWITCH
Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain model 2013 Elantra vehicles manufactured December 1, 2012, to April 30, 2013. The brake pedal stopper pad can deteriorate allowing the brake light switch plunger to remain extended when the brake pedal is released.
AIR BAGS:SIDE/WINDOW
Hyundai Motor Company is recalling certain model year 2011-2013 Elantra vehicles manufactured from November 12, 2010, through March 5, 2013. A support bracket attached to the headliner may become displaced during a side curtain airbag deployment.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common Hyundai Elantra problems?
According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 2008 Hyundai Elantra has 4 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: ABS Module Short Circuit Causing Engine Compartment Fire (Recall 20V061), Airbag Sensor and Control Module Malfunction, Rear brake calipers seizing from corrosion (owner reports). Of these, 2 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.
Is the Hyundai Elantra reliable?
The 2008 Hyundai Elantra has 4 known issues compiled from NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports. 2 issues are rated critical: ABS Module Short Circuit Causing Engine Compartment Fire (Recall 20V061) and Airbag Sensor and Control Module Malfunction. 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.
What is the 2007-2010 Hyundai Elantra ABS Module Short Circuit Causing Engine Compartment Fire (Recall 20V061)?
NHTSA recall 20V061 covers certain 2007-2010 Hyundai Elantra and 2009-2011 Elantra Touring vehicles. Their ABS module remains energized after the vehicle is turned off; if moisture enters its electrical circuit, a short can gradually develop and cause an engine-compartment fire e… Severity: high.
What is the 2007-2009 Hyundai Elantra Airbag Sensor and Control Module Malfunction?
NHTSA recall 11V143 covers certain 2007-2009 Hyundai Elantra vehicles. Contamination can cause the electrical connector for the front-passenger weight-classification sensor to malfunction, allowing the passenger airbag to deploy regardless of occupant weight. Severity: high.
What is the 2007-2016 Hyundai Elantra Rear brake calipers seizing from corrosion (owner reports)?
Owners of 2007-2016 Elantras report rear brake calipers seizing or freezing, in some cases from rust, so the brake stays applied or the parking brake does not release. Applies to: 2007-2010 (HD) and 2011-2016 (MD) Elantra, from owner reports. Severity: medium.
What is the 2007-2015 Hyundai Elantra MDPS Rubber Coupler Wear — Steering Clunk / Knock and Loss of Assist?
Hyundai TSB 17-ST-002 covers 2007-2010 Elantra, 2009-2012 Elantra Touring and specified-production 2011-2015 Elantra vehicles. The flexible rubber coupling in the motor-driven power-steering assembly may wear and produce a slight clicking or thud noise while the steering wheel is… Severity: low.
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.