2020 Hyundai Elantra Problems: 2 Issues Every Owner Should Know

2020 Hyundai Elantra Problems: 2 Issues Every Owner Should Know | Au7o

Filter:

Community Reported

678 owners

On the 2016-2020 Hyundai Elantra, the 7-speed dual clutch transmission (DCT) in Elantra Sport and Elantra GT models suffers from consistent problems including shuddering, hesitation during acceleration, and sudden loss of power. The clutch pack is not replaceable, requiring full transmission replacement. A class action resulted in a $41.2 million settlement.

This issue also affects: Acura TL, Mitsubishi Outlander, Acura ILX

Common Symptoms

Shuddering or vibration when accelerating from a stop
Hesitation or delayed acceleration
Jerking during gear shifts
Grinding noises while shifting
Sudden loss of power while driving
Transmission slipping into neutral unexpectedly

How to Fix

Check for DCT service campaign coverage at dealer. Transmission control module (TCM) software update. Full transmission replacement if clutch pack is damaged. Avoid aggressive stop-and-go driving to reduce clutch wear.

What Owners Are Using

Parts and tips from 678+ owners who fixed this issue

NoteThis is a high-severity issue - ignoring it can lead to costly repairs or safety concerns. Address it promptly.
TipGet a proper diagnosis before replacing parts - similar symptoms can have different causes
TipSearch Hyundai Elantra forums and owner groups for real-world experiences and DIY guides
TipGet multiple quotes from independent mechanics - dealer prices can be 2-3x higher for the same repair
UpgradeTransmission flush kit for complete fluid exchange to address shudder (Liqui Moly Transmission Flush Kit)
View on Amazon
UpgradeFull synthetic ATF designed to reduce shudder in automatic transmissions (Valvoline MaxLife ATF Full Synthetic)
View on Amazon

Typical repair cost:$2,500 - $6,000

Research This Issue

678+ owners have reported this issue

Google Reddit YouTube NHTSA

Community Reported

High Confidence678 reportsLast reported by owners Feb 2024Reviewed Feb 2026

Community Reported

456 owners

On the 2019-2023 Hyundai Elantra, the Smart Stream IVT (Intelligent Variable Transmission) in newer Elantras has experienced early failures, sometimes before reaching 20,000 miles. Issues include sudden power loss, check engine lights, and RPM fluctuations. Hyundai issued TSB 20-01-047H addressing transmission control module calibration issues.

This issue also affects: Acura TL, Infiniti QX60, Mitsubishi Outlander

Common Symptoms

Check engine light illumination
Sudden uncommanded acceleration
Random power loss while driving
Massive RPM fluctuations
Shuddering during acceleration
Hesitation from stop

How to Fix

Transmission control module (TCU) software update per TSB 20-01-047H. Complete IVT unit replacement if software update fails. Check warranty coverage.

What Owners Are Using

Parts and tips from 456+ owners who fixed this issue

TipGet a proper diagnosis before replacing parts - similar symptoms can have different causes
TipSearch Hyundai Elantra forums and owner groups for real-world experiences and DIY guides
TipGet multiple quotes from independent mechanics - dealer prices can be 2-3x higher for the same repair
UpgradeCVT fluid specifically formulated for continuous variable transmissions (Valvoline CVT Transmission Fluid)
View on Amazon
UpgradeReplacement CVT transmission filter to maintain fluid cleanliness (ATP CVT Transmission Filter Kit)
View on Amazon

Typical repair cost:$0 - $5,500

Research This Issue

456+ owners have reported this issue

Google Reddit YouTube NHTSA

Community Reported

High Confidence456 reportsLast reported by owners Feb 2024Reviewed Feb 2026

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common Hyundai Elantra problems?

According to Au7o's analysis of 1,134+ owner reports, the 2020-2020 Hyundai Elantra has 2 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) Shudder and Failure, IVT/CVT Transmission Failure and Power Loss. Of these, 1 is rated critical and should be addressed promptly.

Is the Hyundai Elantra reliable?

The 2020-2020 Hyundai Elantra has 2 known issues documented across 1,134+ owner reports. 1 issue is rated critical: Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) Shudder and Failure. 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 Elantra problems?

Repair costs for known Hyundai Elantra issues range from $0 to $6,000, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) Shudder and Failure, typically costs $2,500-$6,000 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.

What is the 2016-2020 Hyundai Elantra Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) Shudder and Failure?

The 7-speed dual clutch transmission (DCT) in Elantra Sport and Elantra GT models suffers from consistent problems including shuddering, hesitation during acceleration, and sudden loss of power. The clutch pack is not replaceable, requiring full transmission replacement. A class… Repairs typically run $2,500-$6,000. Severity: high.

What is the 2019-2023 Hyundai Elantra IVT/CVT Transmission Failure and Power Loss?

The Smart Stream IVT (Intelligent Variable Transmission) in newer Elantras has experienced early failures, sometimes before reaching 20,000 miles. Issues include sudden power loss, check engine lights, and RPM fluctuations. Hyundai issued TSB 20-01-047H addressing transmission co… Repairs typically run $0-$5,500. Severity: medium.

2020 Hyundai Elantra Problems: 2 Issues Every Owner Should Know

All 2 Known Issues

2016-2020 Hyundai Elantra: Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) Shudder and Failure#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

What Owners Are Using

Research This Issue

2019-2023 Hyundai Elantra: IVT/CVT Transmission Failure and Power Loss#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

What Owners Are Using

Research This Issue

Other Hyundai Models

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common Hyundai Elantra problems?

Is the Hyundai Elantra reliable?

How much does it cost to fix common Hyundai Elantra problems?

What is the 2016-2020 Hyundai Elantra Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) Shudder and Failure?

What is the 2019-2023 Hyundai Elantra IVT/CVT Transmission Failure and Power Loss?