2018 Hyundai Elantra Gt

The 7-speed EcoShift DCT in the 2018 Elantra GT suffers from the same widespread shudder and hesitation issues that affect other Hyundai DCT-equipped models. Owners report violent shaking when pulling away from a stop, delayed acceleration, lurching at low speeds in stop-and-go traffic, and a general lack of smoothness that makes the car feel unsafe in traffic.

Hyundai extended the DCT warranty to 10 years/100,000 miles. Dealers will update the TCU software with improved shift logic. If shuddering persists after the software update, the dual-clutch assembly will be replaced under the extended warranty. Reference the Hyundai DCT warranty extension campaign.

The MDPS (Motor Driven Power Steering) system in the 2018 Elantra GT can develop a groaning or grinding noise during steering input, particularly at low speeds. Some owners also report intermittent steering stiffness where the power assist drops momentarily, requiring increased effort to turn the wheel.

Hyundai released a TSB for MDPS worm shaft bearing replacement to address the grinding noise. Dealers will inspect the MDPS column and replace the bearing assembly. For intermittent stiffness, an MDPS software update may resolve the power assist calibration. If the MDPS motor is failing, the entire column assembly needs replacement.

The 2018 Elantra GT is susceptible to parasitic battery drain that kills the battery after the vehicle sits for a few days. Common causes include the trunk latch switch remaining active, the telematics module not entering sleep mode, and the audio system continuing to draw power after ignition-off. The issue is more frequent in models with the technology package.

Have the dealer perform a parasitic draw test to isolate the circuit causing the drain. Common fixes include replacing the trunk latch switch, updating the Blue Link telematics module software, and updating the audio head unit firmware. If draw exceeds 50mA after the vehicle has been in sleep mode for 30 minutes, further diagnosis is needed.

The 2018 Elantra GT with the 2.0L Nu engine can experience fuel injector failure, causing rough idling, engine misfires, reduced power, and a check engine light with injector circuit codes. In some cases, a leaking injector floods the cylinder with fuel, washing the cylinder wall and causing accelerated wear.

Replace the faulty fuel injector(s). It is advisable to replace all four injectors at the same time for consistent fuel delivery. Use OEM Hyundai injectors for the best results. Have the dealer also inspect the spark plugs for fuel fouling and replace if needed.

Owners report a persistent clunking or thumping noise from the rear suspension when driving over bumps, speed bumps, and uneven road surfaces. The noise is typically caused by worn rear shock absorber bushings or loose rear sway bar end links that allow excessive movement in the suspension components.

Have the dealer inspect the rear shock absorber bushings, rear sway bar end links, and rear trailing arm bushings. Replace any worn components. The rear shock absorbers themselves may also need replacement if the bushings are bonded and cannot be serviced separately.

Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2018 Hyundai Elantra GT vehicles. The panoramic sunroof motor may be incorrectly programmed, preventing the sunroof from detecting an obstacle while closing.

If the sunroof does not detect an obstacle while closing and then retract, there could be an increased risk of injury.

Hyundai will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the panoramic sunroof, replacing it as necessary, free of charge. The recall began February 5, 2019. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 179.