2007 Hyundai Elantra: Reliability, Recalls, Known Issues & Cost to Own
Data last updated 2026-07-04 · sources listed throughout · based on public NHTSA data
A cheap, comfortable and well-liked used compact, but watch for electric-power-steering assist loss, an ABS-module fire-risk recall and hidden underbody corrosion in salt-belt cars. Inspect the subframe and confirm recalls before buying. 4 known issue patterns are documented below, with frequency and the mileage windows where they typically appear. New, the 2007 Hyundai Elantra ranged from $13,995 to $17,295 depending on trim (base MSRP, before options and destination).
This listing
Context from the listing you were viewing, not a market-price judgement.
A cheap, comfortable and well-liked used compact, but watch for electric-power-steering assist loss, an ABS-module fire-risk recall and hidden underbody corrosion in salt-belt cars. Inspect the subframe and confirm recalls before buying.
Sources (3)
- api.nhtsa.govhttps://api.nhtsa.gov/complaints/complaintsByVehicle?make=hyundai&model=elant…
- repairpal.comhttps://repairpal.com/reliability/hyundai/elantra
- cargurus.comhttps://www.cargurus.com/research/articles/hyundai-elantra-buying-guide
Known issues
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Electric power-steering (EPS) assist can be lost while driving, with the EPS warning light on; steering becomes heavy until restart.
commonly reported · typically 40k–130k miles · steering
-
ABS hydraulic/control module electrical short creates an engine-bay fire risk, including in parked vehicles (recall 20V061).
commonly reported · brake
-
Hidden subframe and lower-control-arm corrosion in salt-belt states can lead to component separation and loss of control.
commonly reported · typically 80k–170k miles · suspension
-
Airbag warning-light faults and reports of non-deployment in collisions.
occasional · other
Based on public NHTSA complaint data and AI synthesis: patterns, not guarantees.
Sources (1)
- api.nhtsa.govhttps://api.nhtsa.gov/complaints/complaintsByVehicle?make=hyundai&model=elant…
Recalls & safety
Recall history hasn't been loaded for this model year yet.
Whether a recall is still open on a specific car depends on its VIN. Check it free at NHTSA's VIN lookup (nhtsa.gov/recalls), or ask the seller for proof the repair was done.
Pros & cons
Pros
- Roomy cabin, comfortable ride and good fuel economy.
- Strong value and low running costs; owners report high satisfaction.
Cons
- Hidden subframe and control-arm corrosion in salt-belt states.
- Electric power steering can lose assist while driving.
- ABS-module electrical fault carries an engine-bay fire risk (recall).
Trims & original pricing
| Trim | Original base MSRP | New today | Engine | MPG |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GLS | $13,995 | discontinued | 2.0L I4 | — |
| SE | $16,295 | $22,625 | 2.0L I4 | — |
| Limited | $17,295 | $27,175 | 2.0L I4 | — |
Prices are base MSRP for each trim's standard configuration. Options, packages, and destination charges added to what original buyers actually paid.
Sources (3)
- iseecars.comhttps://www.iseecars.com/car/2007-hyundai-elantra-price
- fueleconomy.govhttps://www.fueleconomy.gov/ws/rest/vehicle/menu/options?year=2009&make=Hyund…
- iseecars.comhttps://www.iseecars.com/car/hyundai-elantra-price
Depreciation
Move your cursor along the line to see the estimated value for any year.
This listing sits above the typical depreciation curve. Common for heavily-optioned cars and for 2021-2023 model years (pandemic-era pricing); the curve is anchored at base MSRP, which excludes options.
Curve anchored at the entry-trim base MSRP ($13,995). Higher trims started higher (up to $17,295), and options added more.
The curve's data ends 10 years in, so the line levels off after that. Treat the tail as a floor, not a forecast: asking prices for older cars depend mostly on condition, mileage, and the current market, and often sit well above it.
Sources (2)
- caredge.comhttps://caredge.com/hyundai/elantra/depreciation
- iseecars.comhttps://www.iseecars.com/car/hyundai-elantra/resale-value
Cost to own
| Repairs (rises with mileage) | ≈ $450–500/yr |
| Expected lifespan | ~200k miles |
National-average estimates based on public data. Your costs vary by region, driver, and condition.
Sources (1)
- repairpal.comhttps://repairpal.com/reliability/hyundai/elantra
Frequently asked questions
What problems does the 2007 Hyundai Elantra have?
Documented issue patterns include: Electric power-steering (EPS) assist can be lost while driving, with the EPS warning light on; steering becomes heavy until restart; ABS hydraulic/control module electrical short creates an engine-bay fire risk, including in parked vehicles (recall 20V061); Hidden subframe and lower-control-arm corrosion in salt-belt states can lead to component separation and loss of control; Airbag warning-light faults and reports of non-deployment in collisions. Frequency is based on public NHTSA complaint data: patterns, not guarantees.
Is the 2007 Hyundai Elantra reliable?
A cheap, comfortable and well-liked used compact, but watch for electric-power-steering assist loss, an ABS-module fire-risk recall and hidden underbody corrosion in salt-belt cars. Inspect the subframe and confirm recalls before buying.
How much did the 2007 Hyundai Elantra cost new?
Between $13,995 and $17,295 depending on trim. Those are base MSRPs for each trim's standard configuration; options, packages, and destination charges added to what original buyers actually paid.
Is the Hyundai Elantra expensive to maintain?
Estimated repairs run roughly $450–500/year as mileage climbs.
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Estimates are based on public data: patterns, not guarantees. CarVitals is not affiliated with NHTSA, CarMax, AutoTrader, or Cars.com. Issue frequencies come from public NHTSA complaint data, which has no denominator, so they describe reporting patterns, not failure probabilities. Always have a used car inspected before buying. How we build these reports.