Hyundai Elantra vs Nissan Maxima
For 2005–2021 models, the Hyundai Elantra has 24.0 owner complaints per 10,000 sold, against 32.6 for the Nissan Maxima. 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
26% fewer than the Nissan Maxima
- 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
Nissan Maxima
32.6 complaints per 10,000 sold
1.4× the Hyundai Elantra’s rate
- Complaints
- 2,839
- Sold
- 870,630
- Recall campaigns
- 10
- Open NHTSA investigations
- 1
Most complaints: 2005–2006 and 2009–2010. Fewest: 2015, 2018–2019 and 2021. Every year →
Most-reported problems
-
Harsh, delayed or erratic shifting
Typically around 89,000 mi
-
Body control and other modules
Typically around 70,500 mi
-
Airbags, seatbelts and restraints
Typically around 69,660 mi
-
Automatic transmission internals
Typically around 90,000 mi · repair $2,910–$5,410
-
Stalling and no-start
Typically around 105,000 mi
Common questions
Which has fewer problems, the Hyundai Elantra or the Nissan Maxima?
For 2005–2021 models, the Hyundai Elantra has 24.0 owner complaints per 10,000 sold and the Nissan Maxima has 32.6, 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 Nissan Maxima?
The most-reported problem on the Nissan Maxima is harsh, delayed or erratic shifting, typically around 89,000 miles.
Which Hyundai Elantra and Nissan Maxima years have the most complaints?
Relative to each vehicle's typical year: Hyundai Elantra: 2010, 2013 and 2017; Nissan Maxima: 2005–2006 and 2009–2010.
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.