Avoid: 2016, 2013, 2012 (lowest Year Scores on complaints per year on the road, crash reports and recalls)
Best: 2020
10 model years of NHTSA owner complaints and recalls · How we grade
Across 10 model years, the Hyundai Veloster has 1,388 owner-filed NHTSA complaints and 24 recalls on record. The most-reported areas are engine and electrical system. 2013 drew the most complaints (423), 2020 the fewest (27).
Source: NHTSA complaints and recalls filed for Hyundai Veloster vehicles (US, public record). Typical used asking price $7,181–$10,491.
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.
Highest: 2013 (423 complaints). Lowest: 2020 (27).
Sentiment is sharply divided by model variant and generation.
Engine seizure, rod knock, and complete failure requiring replacement. Very frequently linked to manufacturing defects involving metal debris in oil passages.
Known issue leading to recall; causes drivability problems.
Cheap plastics, steering wheels disintegrating, interior rattles developing over time.
Flickering lights, popping out of gear, limp mode, check engine lights related to faulty ground straps and bad batteries.
Described as poor, uncooperative, clueless, and difficult to work with on warranty claims.
Owner insights cover all generations of the Veloster. Individual model years are broken down above.
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