NHTSA Complaint #11547356 — 2013 HYUNDAI ELANTRA

The engine in my 2013 Elantra started making noises and the car stopped while my son was driving. He was able to get it to a nearby parking lot. We ended up driving it 1 mile to the mechanic who said “it might be time to get rid of this car”. It needs a new engine. Mechanic talked to the local Hyundai dealership, gave them the VIN and dealer said I would likely be eligible for an engine replacement under a recall or a factory warranty. I towed it to the dealer to do their own “diagnosis” before they could give me the official word that my engine would be replaced. Dealer kept my car for five weeks. They ultimately provided an estimate of $3K worth of repairs that have little to do with the engine failing. I'm not sure they even looked at the engine. They told me the car has too many miles and would no longer be eligible for an engine replacement. I ultimately had the car towed back to my mechanic. The mechanic is estimating about $8K-$10K worth of parts and labor to replace the engine. The mechanic does not suggest using a used engine. My car is displaying the same issues as the other engine recalls, but my particular model is not covered (yet). The 2014 Elantra is part of the engine recall. My 2013 Elantra is not covered but is still displaying the same symptoms, and the engine knocking noise and engine failure are the same. The "Check Engine" light is on. I have this car parked in a parking garage, unable to be driven, while I pay off the remaining balance to Carmax. My mechanic says it could "blow up" if I drive it, and at a minimum, the engine can fail while driving causing a safety risk to the driver and passengers and any surrounding vehicles or pedestrians. I can provide mechanic's contact information if needed.