Ford Focus vs Hyundai Elantra
For 2005–2019 models, the Hyundai Elantra has 24.5 owner complaints per 10,000 sold, against 54.0 for the Ford Focus. Below: what each one’s owners report most, when it shows up, and what it costs to fix.
Both rates cover the same model years (2005–2019), counting each complaint once and dividing by US sales, so the more popular vehicle isn’t penalized for being popular. Years too new to judge are left out. How this is calculated.
Ford Focus
54.0 complaints per 10,000 sold
2.2× the Hyundai Elantra’s rate
- Complaints
- 14,134
- Sold
- 2,619,091
- Recall campaigns
- 27
- Open NHTSA investigations
- 1
Most complaints: 2012–2014 and 2018. Fewest: 2006, 2008, 2011 and 2019. Every year →
Most-reported problems
-
Harsh, delayed or erratic shifting
Typically around 40,000 mi
-
Doors, windows, latches, seats and trim
Typically around 62,872 mi
-
Stalling and no-start
Typically around 60,000 mi
-
Manual clutch, flywheel and hydraulics
Typically around 56,081 mi · repair $1,070–$1,980
-
Electric power steering motor and module
Typically around 77,777 mi · repair $750–$2,230
Hyundai Elantra
24.5 complaints per 10,000 sold
55% fewer than the Ford Focus
- Complaints
- 6,202
- Sold
- 2,527,042
- Recall campaigns
- 21
- Open NHTSA investigations
- 3
Most complaints: 2010, 2013 and 2017. Fewest: 2005–2006 and 2015. Every year →
Most-reported problems
-
Airbags, seatbelts and restraints
Typically around 78,500 mi
-
Stalling and no-start
Typically around 59,850 mi
-
Internal engine (bearings, pistons, rings)
Typically around 80,000 mi
-
Body control and other modules
Typically around 45,000 mi
-
Wiring harness, grounds and connectors
Typically around 77,000 mi
Common questions
Which has fewer problems, the Ford Focus or the Hyundai Elantra?
For 2005–2019 models, the Hyundai Elantra has 24.5 owner complaints per 10,000 sold and the Ford Focus has 54.0, counting the same model years for both.
What is the most common problem on the Ford Focus?
The most-reported problem on the Ford Focus is harsh, delayed or erratic shifting, typically around 40,000 miles.
What is the most common problem on the Hyundai Elantra?
The most-reported problem on the Hyundai Elantra is airbags, seatbelts and restraints, typically around 78,500 miles.
Which Ford Focus and Hyundai Elantra years have the most complaints?
Relative to each vehicle's typical year: Ford Focus: 2012–2014 and 2018; Hyundai Elantra: 2010, 2013 and 2017.
Source: NHTSA owner complaints, recalls and investigations; US sales from public industry figures; repair costs from book labor hours and parts pricing at national rates. Complaints are self-reported and not independently verified. Problem lists cover each vehicle’s full history. This is not a recommendation to buy or avoid either vehicle.