Avoid: 2013 (lowest Year Scores on complaints per year on the road, crash reports and recalls)
Best: 2018
23 model years of NHTSA owner complaints and recalls · How we grade
Across 26 model years, the Hyundai Accent has 2,451 owner-filed NHTSA complaints and 41 recalls on record. The most-reported areas are air bags and service brakes. 2013 drew the most complaints (276), 2020 the fewest (12).
Source: NHTSA complaints and recalls filed for Hyundai Accent vehicles (US, public record). Typical used asking price $7,298–$11,438.
Complaint volume by model year. Raw NHTSA totals, not adjusted for sales volume or time on the road, so older and higher-selling years accumulate more. Every year links to its full breakdown.
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 2022 | 16 |
| 2021 | 16 |
| 2020 | 12 |
| 2019 | 31 |
| 2018 | 19 |
| 2017 | 129 |
| 2016 | 193 |
| 2015 | 136 |
| 2014 | 158 |
| 2013 | 276 |
| 2012 | 153 |
| 2011 | 38 |
| 2010 | 174 |
| 2009 | 202 |
| 2008 | 101 |
| 2007 | 88 |
| 2006 | 43 |
| 2005 | 49 |
| 2004 | 33 |
| 2003 | 37 |
| 2002 | 144 |
| 2001 | 126 |
| 2000 | 95 |
| 1999 | 66 |
| 1998 | 51 |
| 1997 | 65 |
Highest: 2013 (276 complaints). Lowest: 2020 (12).
Sentiment is sharply divided and heavily dependent on model year, maintenance history, and purchase price.
Lack of engine immobilizer (in certain markets/years) leads to frequent break-ins via smashed windows, even with steering wheel locks.
Reports of engine failure, replacement, and knocking; sensitive to oil quality and octane level; timing belt is a critical maintenance item.
Reports of premature failure and high repair costs; not recommended for long-term ownership beyond 150,000 miles.
Ride quality criticized as poor or "not great"; rear shocks may wear out early and cause bottoming out, especially with passengers.
Low coolant with gurgling noises reported without obvious leaks; potential for rust in older models affecting the cooling system and heater core.
Owner insights cover all generations of the Accent. Individual model years are broken down above.
We're building a full check by VIN: the exact trim and engine, its known problems and recalls, what to inspect, a fair price, and how it compares with its rivals. Get an email when it's ready.
One email when it launches. Unsubscribe any time. Privacy