Hyundai Elantra vs Lexus ES
For 2005–2021 models, the Lexus ES has 20.2 owner complaints per 10,000 sold, against 24.0 for the Hyundai Elantra. 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 (2005–2021), 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.
Hyundai Elantra
24.0 complaints per 10,000 sold
1.2× the Lexus ES’s rate
- Complaints
- 6,615
- Sold
- 2,759,877
- Recall campaigns
- 30
- Open NHTSA investigations
- 3
Most complaints: 2010, 2013 and 2017. Fewest: 2005–2006, 2015 and 2021. 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
Lexus ES
20.2 complaints per 10,000 sold
16% fewer than the Hyundai Elantra
- Complaints
- 2,013
- Sold
- 996,002
- Recall campaigns
- 15
- Open NHTSA investigations
- 0
Most complaints: 2007–2008 and 2010–2011. Fewest: 2015, 2017–2018 and 2020. Every year →
Most-reported problems
-
Airbags, seatbelts and restraints
Typically around 67,816 mi
-
Doors, windows, latches, seats and trim
Typically around 80,000 mi
-
Stalling and no-start
Typically around 63,000 mi
-
Master cylinder and booster
Typically around 70,000 mi
-
Harsh, delayed or erratic shifting
Typically around 49,000 mi
Common questions
Which has fewer problems, the Hyundai Elantra or the Lexus ES?
For 2005–2021 models, the Lexus ES has 20.2 owner complaints per 10,000 sold and the Hyundai Elantra has 24.0, counting the same model years for both.
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.
What is the most common problem on the Lexus ES?
The most-reported problem on the Lexus ES is airbags, seatbelts and restraints, typically around 67,816 miles.
Which Hyundai Elantra and Lexus ES years have the most complaints?
Relative to each vehicle's typical year: Hyundai Elantra: 2010, 2013 and 2017; Lexus ES: 2007–2008 and 2010–2011.
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.